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Harley Jankowski Jesse Bernhagen Feature winners in CWRA Stars to Legends Tour action at Dells Raceway park 5/30/20.
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RACETRACK CONSTRUCTION ON THE UPSWING:
LACROSSE SPEEDWAY IS BUILT FOR STOCK CARS
By Dale P. Danielski
2022 June
With the moderate success of stock car racing on French Island, La Crosse Speedway is built.
There were a number of observers of the first stock car racing action to take place in the La Crosse Wisconsin area after the War on French Island in 1950, and that brought the 1951 construction of the La Crosse Speedway on the City's South side.
The effort was spearheaded by Don Friday and ultimately events were held under the Tri-State Racing Association banner, with assistance from Leo Dahlberg and George Blakely. The track, a true oval of 1/4 mile in length, was located near what was called the 5 mile house, just off of Highway 35. Sunday afternoon races were scheduled with time trials at 12;30 PM and racing at 1:30PM. Admission was listed at $1:00 for adults, tax included. Children under 12 with parents were admitted free. There was also free parking and refreshments to be served. According to area pioneer of racing in the area, Bud Krause, the track was nicknamed the Brickyard. "It was all brick clay and would get hard as a rock to race on. The cars would squeal the tires there! I liked that track, I had a tire groover I used on my race car, and we would run really good there." The we Krause spoke of were drivers Dubby Anderson, Dick Hastings, and Con Noben, as Bud served in the ownership role.
Dewey Moore was another driver that raced at the Southside track. "It was down in the hole there. A lot of the guys that raced there, like Lloyd Viner would hang out at the Hut, which was a drive in root beer stand. It was a fun place after the races. We raced at that track until a car rolled down the grandstand hill and ran over a couple people. That was the end of our racing there."
Chuck Smith was one that raced at the La Crosse Speedway and remembers when the North La Crosse Speedbowl, (June, 1952 and less than 10 miles separating the two) was built, both tracks racing against each other. "They'd both run on Sunday afternoon. I never could understand that. You'd think if one would run a different night, they'd get better crowds and more drivers. I guess with the popularity of the sport growing they wanted it all for themselves. If they raced on different days, drivers could make more money running a couple times a week close by. I never did understand that."
Something unique to area racing was the La Crosse Speedway installing lights for evening race programs. That happened at the track in 1952 and the Speedway featured racing on Wednesday and Sunday nights. The lighting was considered State of the Art at the time consisting of Alzak Aluminum reflectors with shielded lenses and 1,500 watt bulbs illuminating the track. The shielded lenses were to protect customers and drivers from being blinded and were not to be affected by swarms of insects and rain. According to a track spokesman, the Speedway was to be flooded with one million lumens of light, which was the equivalent to approximately 700 homes burning 100 watt bulbs. How was that for a new concept in lighting!
On Sunday afternoon, August 12th, 1951, it was Con Noben winning the 25 lap Feature race at the La Crosse Speedway. Dick Hastings had fast time at 21:00 seconds. Other area racers competing on the day included Monte Lecher, Lloyd Viner and Arlo Zieman...On Sunday, August 26th, it was Monte Lecher capturing the Feature race at La Crosse Speedway. It was Lecher's 3rd main event win of the year. Irene Anderson won the Women's race...On Sunday and Monday, Labor Day, September 2-3, it was Darrell Miller and Eddie George Jr., winning Features at La Crosse Speedway. The special two day event drew 46 race cars on Sunday and 62 on Monday...On Sunday September 16th, it was South Beloit, Ill., driver, Cecil Griffin winning the Feature race. He was followed at the finish by Clyde Pettygrove, Bob Kemp, Marvin Severson, and Bob Mallay. Merlin Jones tied the track record in time trials with a lap of 20:05 seconds. 64 cars raced on the day...On Sunday, September 23rd, it was Fred Welch winning the Feature race at La Crosse Speedway. The Feature finish found Dubby Anderson, Bob Mallay, Darrell Miller, Marvin Severson and Larry Calloway trailing...On Sunday, September 30th, it was Charles Boardman Jr., winning the Feature at La Crosse Speedway. Following Boardman were Darrell Miller, Ray Whitewater, Lloyd Viner, and Eddie George, Jr. Local racer, Lyle Sheehan rolled his car in the main event...An ad advertising racing at La Crosse Speedway racing in 1952 featured adult admission at $.83 cents + $.17 cents tax...On Sunday, May 25th, 1952 it was Gene "Weiner" Wigdahl winning the Feature at La Crosse Speedway. Monte Lecher was 2nd with Perry Anderson 3rd. Junior Stach and Con Noben rounded out the top 5 finishers...On Sunday, June 1st, it was Con Noben winning the Feature at La Crosse Speedway in car #4. Robert Hartley, Gene Wigdahl and Monte Lecher followed...The Monday, June 9th, 1952 La Crosse Tribune headline read, "Woman Injured At Racetrack" A run away parked car plunged ahead to strike Mrs. Angus McConnell, age 47, resulting in a possible skull fracture along with a hip injury, the story read...On Sunday, June 29th, it was Stan Ferguson in car #94 winning the Feature at La Crosse Speedway. Con Noben placed 2nd...On Sunday, July 6th, it was Monte Lecher in car #41, a car owned by Leslie Peterson winning the Feature at La Crosse Speedway...On Sunday, July 13th, it was Robert Hartley, in a car owned by Roy "Happy" Franklin winning the Feature at La Crosse Speedway. Con Noben in another Franklin car was 2nd...On Wednesday, August 6th, Marvin Severson, in a car owned by Jack Miller, won the first race held under the new lights at La Crosse Speedway. On Wednesday, August 13th, it was Arlo Ziemann in car #14 winning the Feature at La Crosse Speedway.
Here and there...Interesting to note, the Upside Down Club was formed in 1951 by racer, fan and event organizer, Ernie Anderson. They met at Deal's Garage in La Crosse. To become a member of the Club you had to roll your race car over at one of the area tracks. Membership grew very large as most of the drivers did just that...Carnage was the word with racing action at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, Saturday night, May 14th, 2022. No less than 10 cars were involved in wrecks in the two NASCAR Late Model Features. How's that for chills, spills and thrills! Jacob Goede won both 20 lap Features in the division. Sad to report recent deaths to Rick Johnson, Jim Johnson, John Scott, Fred Mehlum, Bill and Ruth Inglett and Jason Schaller. All were involved in racing in some capacity. Father Time marches on...
Photos and info by Dale. Cars racing at The La Crosse Speedway, just South of La Crosse, WI. Note the fencing on the outside of the oval for the race cars and the two foot tall barrier to protect fans. Stock Car Races Every Sunday La Crosse Speedway ad announcing the beginning of racing at the new track in June of 1951. 11 cars mixing it up at La Crosse Speedway. The track would draw from 40-65 cars for the events at the 1/4 mile oval. August 1, 1952, La Crosse Tribune ad features racing under the lights at La Crosse Speedway. As the La Crosse Speedway looked in 1954. Activator switch for the State of the Art lighting at La Crosse Speedway. Pole remains standing today. La Crosse Speedway as it looks today, just down from the Mt. La Crosse Ski Hill. Photo credits to Dick Johnson.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI. 54650. 608-783-5125 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUGUST 10TH 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI
608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
WEINFURTER TAKES OVER TOUR POINT LEAD WITH DOMINATING PERFORMANCE AT GOLDEN SANDS SPEEDWAY
PLOVER, WI - Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., left no doubt who was the man to beat here Friday night, as he won both 30 lap Features in the CWRA Stars To Legends Tour event here at Golden Sands Speedway. With the wins, Weinfurter emerged from the night with the Tour point lead with just two points races remaining.
The first 30 lap main, consisting of a new Tour high 20 cars, started with Brian Henry, Omro, WI., and Jesse Pokszyk, Friendship, WI., on the front row. Pokszyk moved to the front and led while drivers worked their way to the front from the 12 car inverted start. One of those was Weinfurter, who after starting 11th on the field was already up to 5th spot by the 8th lap. Pokszyk continued to lead with Monte Gress, Neillsville, WI and Henry battling for 2nd. Shortly after the two decided their battle, Weinfurter was right behind, taking over the 2nd position with 15 laps remaining. Weinfurter quickly closed on racing teammate Pokszyk and took the top spot with an inside pass on lap 20. While Weinfurter built a cushion, positions behind him were hotly contested and contact between Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI., and Henry resulted in a yellow flag waving period which juggled the field for the restart. No one could match the Weinfurter speed when the green flag waved with 5 laps remaining however, and he cruised to the win. Pokszyk held on to 2nd at the finish, and was followed by M. Gress, Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., who had moved all the way up from 12th starting position, Dave Neitzke, Eureka, WI., in his best run of the season, and Derek Doerr, Watertown, WI., who placed a solid 6th.
The second 30 lap Feature event began with an 11 car inverted start with Putch Bentley, Iron River, MI., and Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI., on the front row. Bentley took command building a slight advantage over the field when the caution waved for a Jesse Pokszyk spin. A couple more caution flags waved for minor spins and when things finally got sorted out Bentley again took the lead. Bentley's good run would be short lived however as he spun relegating the Upper Michigan driver to the rear of the field for the restart. With green flag action resuming once again, it was Jeff Weinfurter on the move from his 11th starting spot, grabbing the first position with an inside pass of M. Gress who had led the previous three laps. With 13 laps remaining, the rest of the field could only hope for a mechanical problem on Weinfurter's car as he led the rest of the way. Darren Jackson up from 8th position at the start, made it closer at the finish, but had to settle for 2nd at the stripe. Following Weinfurter and Jackson at the end of 30 laps were Dave Neitzke, with another fine run, Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., M. Gress and Derek Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI.
The wins for Weinfurter were number three and four on the year and he will be the new Stars to Legends Tour point leader with a 48 point margin over Jackson heading into the next event, the Dick Trickle Classic, at Tomah-Sparta Speedway, Tomah, WI., Sunday afternoon, September 16th.
SUMMARY
30 lap Feature one 1.Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., 2. Jesse Pokszyk, Friendship, WI., 3. Monte Gress, Neillsville, WI., 4. Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., 5. Dave Neitzke, Eureka, WI., 6. Derek Doerr, Watertown, WI., 7. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., 8. Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 9. Derek Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI., 10. Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI., 11. Putch Bentley, Iron River, MI., 12. Dakota Blakeslee, Wis. Rapids, WI., 13. Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI., 14. Greg Matthews, Wis. Rapids, WI., 15. Brett Breitenfeldt, Wausau, WI., 16. Brian Henry, Omro, WI., 17. Kirby Kurth, Wis. Rapids, WI., 18. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., 19. Eric Wilhite, Athens, WI., 20. Braison Bennett, Neenah, WI.
30 lap Feature two 1.Weinfurter, 2. Jackson, 3. Neitzke, 4. Kallas, 5. M. Gress, 6. Van Dreel, 7. Bennett, 8. Henry, 9. Pokszyk, 10. Doerr, 11. Sievers, 12. Kurth, 13. Bentley, 14. Matthews, 15. Wilhite, 16. D. Gress, 17. Blakeslee, 18. Mackesy, 19. Breitenfeldt.
Time 1. Jackson.
AR BODIES
10% off Product certificate 5th place Feature one Dave Neitzke
5th place Feature two Monte Gress
Coleman Racing Products
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature one Mark Mackesy, bad break
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature two Putch Bentley, bad break
Howe Racing Ent.
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature one Jeff Weinfurter, 11th-1st
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature two Jeff Weinfurter, 11th-1st
Tiry's Race Engines
$100 off certificate Feature one Dakota Blakeslee, 12th
$100 off certificate Feature two Kirby Kurth, 12th
CWRA Stars to Legends point standings as of 8/10/18
1. Jeff Weinfurter 570
2. Darren Jackson 522
3. Mark Mackesy 517
4. Darek Gress 510
5. Rachel Kallas 422
6. Frank Nitzke 419
7. Derrick Van Dreel 411
8. Monte Gress 395
9. Brian Henry * 390
10. Jesse Bernhagen* 382
11. Mike Sievers 327
12. Dave Neitzke 303
13. Greg Matthews * 262
14. Dakota Blakeslee 221
15. Jesse Pokszyk 206
16. Tod Stenson 109
17. Kirby Kurth 104
18. Jack Greenwood 100
19. Eric Wilhite 94
20. Joey Pontbriand 92
21. Dan Lindsley 88
22. Jim Sauter Jr. 82
23. Derek Doerr 70
24. Brock Heinrich 62
25. Chad Devine 62
26. Braison Bennett 56
27. Putch Bentley 56
28. Mark Schultz* 55
29. Brett Breitenfeldt 46
* Denotes "Rookie of the year" Candidates
-30-
JULY 21ST, 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI
608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
TWO NEW WINNERS, BERNHAGEN AND LINSLEY GRACE VICTORY LANE IN CWRA STARS TO
LEGENDS TOUR ACTION AT DELLS RACEWAY PARK
WIS. DELLS, WI - Two first time winners in CWRA Stars to Legends Tour action found themselves in victory lane Saturday night at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., in the Marlin Walbeck Classic, as Jesse Bernhagen Stevens Point, WI., and Dan Lindsley, Iron Mountain, MI., each captured 30 lap Feature events. The 30 lap main event lengths were in honor of longtime Wisconsin racer Walbeck, who used that number throughout his racing career.
With an excellent field of 18 Super Late Model machines taking the green flag in Feature number one, it was Derrick Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI., grabbing the lead from his pole position starting spot. Van Dreel led a handful of laps before a caution flag waved for a spin by Tour point leader Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI. Action resumed with Van Dreel still leading with Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., and Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI., in hot pursuit. Bernhagen meanwhile was already up to 4th position from his 10th starting spot and putting pressure on the leading trio of drivers. With half the race complete it was still Van Dreel in front, but Bernhagen who is also a Rookie driver on the Tour this year, was making the outside groove of the 1/3 mile banked paved oval work, taking the lead with 7 laps remaining. Bernhagen stretched his lead the remaining distance taking the checkered flag by 5 car lengths over Gress, Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., Joey Pontbriand, making the 4 hour drive from Norway, MI., Nitzke, and Van Dreel the top six finishers. According to Bernhagen, with the car he was competing with on the night, a win wasn't expected. "We have never run that well with this car, but tonight everything worked and we got our first win"
With a 10 car inversion for the second 30 lapper it was Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., starting from the pole position and immediately jumping into the lead. Dan Lindsley was right behind and wasted no time getting alongside Jackson by lap 3 taking the top spot one circuit later. The Lindsley car was on rails and he stretched his lead to 10 car lengths in no time. The rest of the 17 car starting field was mired in traffic with Darek Gress moving into the top 5 of the fastest group of cars on lap 10. Joey Pontbriand was again having a competitive run as he, Gress, and Mark Mackesy from 11th starting spot, began battling for the 3rd position. Barring mechanical issues, Lindsley was not to be caught as he had a straightaway lead with 9 laps remaining. A caution waving incident for a Mackesy spin with 4 laps to go bunched up the field however, but Lindsley was up to the task, leading the rest of the way to the Checkered flag for his first CWRA Stars to Legends Tour win. Jackson hung on to second at the finish and was followed by Jeff Weinfurter, Pontbriand, Mackesy and Gress. According to Lindsley, it was a last minute decision to race at the Dells track tonight. "Where we normally race at Norway Speedway, (MI) was cancelled, so we decided to make the 4 hour drive here to race. It paid off and we won the Feature!"
The 19 car field of CWRA cars on hand for the show was a new high for the group, and the next action they will see is Friday night, August 10th, at the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI.
SUMMARY
30 lap Feature one 1. Jesse Bernhagen, Stevens Point, WI., 2. Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI., 3. Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., 4.Joey Pontbriand, Iron River, MI., 5. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., 6. Derrick Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI., 7. Chad Devine, Appleton, WI.,, 8. Dan Lindsley, Iron Mountain, MI.,, 9. Jesse Pokszyk Friendship, WI., 10. Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., 11. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., 12. Brian Henry, Omro, WI., 13. Monte Gress, Neillsville, WI., 14. Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 15. Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI., WI., 16. Dave Neitzke, Eureka, WI., 17. Greg Matthews, Wis. Rapids, WI., 18. Tod Stenson, Wis. Dells, WI.
30 lap Feature two 1. Lindsley, 2 Jackson, 3. Weinfurter, 4. Pontbriand, 5. Mackesy, 6. D. Gress, 7. Bernhagen, 8. Nitzke, 9. Pokszyk, 10. Van Dreel,, 11. Henry, 12. M. Gress, 13. Kallas, 14. Devine, 15. Matthews, 16. Neitzke,, 17. Sievers.
Time 1. Mackesy
AR BODIES
10% off Product certificate 5th place Feature one Frank Nitzke
5th place Feature two Mark Mackesy
Coleman Racing Products
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature one Tod Stenson bad break
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature two Dan Lindsley break of race
Howe Racing Ent.
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature one Jesse Bernhagen 10th-1st
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature two Mark Mackesy 11th-5th
Tiry's Race Engines
$100 off certificate Feature one Darren Jackson 10th
$100 off certificate Feature two Derrick Van Dreel 10th
CWRA Stars to Legends point standings as of 7/21/18
1. Mark Mackesy 471
2. Jeff Weinfurter 462
3. Darek Gress 455
4. Darren Jackson 424
5. Jesse Bernhagen * 382
6. Frank Nitzke 345
7. Rachel Kallas 340
8. Derrick Van Dreel 340
9. Brian Henry * 332
10. Monte Gress 310
11. Mike Sievers 268
12. Dave Neitzke 218
13. Greg Matthews * 210
14. Dakota Blakeslee 170
15. Jesse Pokszyk 128
16. Tod Stenson 109
17. Jack Greenwood 100
18. Joey Pontbriand 92
19. Dan Lindsley 88
20. Jim Sauter Jr. 82
21. Brock Heinrich 62
22. Chad Devine 62
23. Mark Schultz * 55
24. Kirby Kurth 53
25. Eric Wilhite 48
26. Derek Doerr 1
* Denotes "Rookie of the year" Candidates
-30-
JULY 6TH, 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI
608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
WEINFURTER, GRESS BATTLE TO CWRA
WINS AT MARSHFIELD MOTOR SPEEDWAY
MARSHFIELD, WI - It was tight, action packed CWRA Stars to Legends Tour as presented by Smiley's Old Time Diner, racing at Marshfield Motor Speedway here Friday night, with Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., and Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI., each taking extremely close wins in the two 30 lap main events held on the evening. The night's racing was dedicated to long time Wisconsin Fans for Auto Racing member, Sue Bednarski.
Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI., had the lucky drawing of the night and started on the pole of the first 30 lap Feature. He took an early lead but within a lap it was Derrick Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI., grabbing the lead. His lead was short lived as well as Jeff Weinfurter moved in front. Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., moved into 2nd spot with Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., who has been on a hot streak of late, settling into the 3rd spot. Positions were rapidly changing throughout the 17 car field when the caution waved for a Jack Greenwood, Phillips, WI., spin. With the race realigned for the restart, it was once again Weinfurter taking the lead. Jackson and Mackesy were putting the pressure on however, looking for their chance to supplant Weinfurter from the top spot. Darek Gress was on the move and with 15 laps to go moved all the way from 4th from his 15th starting position on the grid. The order remained the same as Weinfurter was looking to hang on to the top spot with 8 laps remaining. Weinfurter stretched his lead as Jackson and Mackesy battled side by side for 2nd spot. Mackesy eventually grabbed the position and immediately got up alongside Weinfurter looking for the lead. The two battled that way for the remainder of the race with Weinfurter taking the checkered flag a car length ahead of Mackesy who was ahead of Jackson by the same margin. Gress kept the 4th spot at the stripe and was followed by Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., and Jesse Bernhagen, Stevens Point, WI., in 6th.
The 2nd 30 lap main event once again found Sievers on the pole via the inverted line up from Feature one and he immediately motored out front. A lap was all he would pace the field for however, as Van Dreel, took over the 1st position the next round. Rachal Kallas, Winneconne, WI., from her 5th starting position on the grid, moved into 2nd position in hot pursuit of Van Dreel. In the blink of an eye, Rookie contender, Bernhagen, moved into 3rd and was fast closing on the leaders. Second spot was his at Kallas's expense two laps later and Van Dreel became his next victim within a lap. Bernhagen looked strong, pacing the field, but no less than a 5 car train were hot on his heels. Gress and Weinfurter were two of those pursuers, and they dispatched of Bernhagen with 12 laps left in the race. Lapped traffic came into play and as a result Weinfurter was able to sneak in front of Gress and take the lead. With 10 laps to go it was Weinfurter and Gress battling side by side and nose to tail with fast closing Mackesy right behind. A caution for a multi car spin slowed the action with 9 laps to go but once again Weinfurter took the point on the restart. Gress wasn't finished however and taking the extreme outside groove moved alongside Weinfurter. Mackesy made it a 3 car battle nearly splitting the two leaders making a move in the middle of the wide track. With one lap to go Gress made a last gasp attempt at an out side move making it work going down the front stretch, heading toward the checkered flag, beating Weinfurter at the line by a mere inches. Weinfurter had to settle for second with Mackesy 3rd in one of the closest finishes ever witnessed in CWRA Stars to Legends Tour competition. Following the leading trio was Jackson, Bernhagen and Kallas, the top 6.
The wins for Weinfurter and Gress ended Mackesy's consecutive wins streak at three, but Mackesy hopes to get back in victory lane at the next Tour event, the Marlin Walbeck Classic, at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., Saturday, July 21st. Weinfurter and Gress are hoping they can start streaks of their own as they have proven to be more than up to task having taken two main event wins each respectively.
SUMMARY
30 lap Feature one 1. Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., 2. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., 3. Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., 4. Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI., 5. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., 6. Jesse Bernhagen, Stevens Point, WI., 7. Brian Henry, Omro, WI., 8. Monte Gress, Neillsville, WI., 9. Rachal Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 10. Dakota Blakeslee, Wis. Rapids, WI., 11. Derrick Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI., 12. Mark Schultz, Oshkosh, WI., 13. Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI., 14. Greg Matthews, Wis. Rapids, WI., 15. Dave Neitzke, Eureka, WI., 16. Eric Wilhite, Athens, WI., 17. Jack Greenwood, Phillips, WI.
30 lap Feature two 1. D. Gress, 2. Weinfurter, 3. Mackesy, 4. Jackson, 5. Bernhagen, 6. Kallas, 7. Henry, 8. Blakeslee, 9. Nitzke, 10. M. Gress, 11. Sievers, 12. Van Dreel, 13. Schultz, 14. Matthews, 15. Neitzke, 16. Wilhite, 17. Greenwood.
AR BODIES
10% off Product certificate 5th place Feature one Frank Nitzke
5th place Feature two Jesse Bernhagen
Coleman Racing Products
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature one Mike Sievers bad break
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature two Dakota Blakeslee accident
Howe Racing Ent.
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature one Darek Gress 15th-4th
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature two Jeff Weinfurter 13th-2nd
Tiry's Race Engines
$100 off certificate Feature one Derrick Van Dreel 10th
$100 off certificate Feature two Monte Gress 10th
CWRA Stars to Legends point standings as of 7/6/18
1. Mark Mackesy 392
2. Jeff Weinfurter 373
3. Darek Gress 369
4. Darren Jackson 348
5. Jesse Bernhagen 290
6. Rachal Kallas 287
7. Brian Henry 275
8. Derrick Van Dreel 272
9. Frank Nitzke 270
10. Monte Gress 255
11. Mike Sievers 220
12. Dakota Blakeslee 170
13. Dave Neitzke 164
14. Greg Matthews 162
15. Jack Greenwood 100
16. Jim Sauter Jr. 82
17. Tod Stenson 64
18. Jesse Pocksyck 63
19. Brock Heinrich 62
20. Mark Schultz 55
21. Kirby Kurth 53
22. Eric Wilhite 48
-30-
JUNE 16, 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI
608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
MACKESY TAKES BOTH FEATURES IN STARS TO LEGENDS TOUR NABBEFELDT MEMORIAL AT DELLS RACEWAY PARK
WIS. DELLS, WI - It was Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., once again showing his veteran racing experience as he captured both 55 lap CWRA Stars to Legends Tour, as presented by Smiley's Old Time Diner, Feature races here at Dells Raceway Park Saturday night. The two wins were a first for Mackesy of any kind here at the track and they came in the running of the prestigious Lyle Nabbefeldt Memorial race. Nabbefeldt was a fixture here at the track racing from the 1960s through the early 1970s. He was also one of the most popular drivers racing and consequently the race in his honor continues.
The first 55 lap main event found Derrick Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI., and Jesse Pokscyk, Friendship, WI., leading the way from the front row. Pokscyk would secure the top spot and eventually build a large lead over the field. Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI., who was fastest on the evening was the man on the move, placing himself in the top 5 by lap 15. By the halfway point it was Pokscyk still in front but Gress was closing fast. The lead became his on lap 30 as Pokscyk faded and eventually pulled off the track with mechanical issues. Meanwhile Mackesy from his 8th starting spot was up to 2nd place with 15 laps to go and closing on the leader. Lapped traffic came into play as the two leaders battled forcing them to pick a lane and try and get by the lapped cars. Mackesy picked the inside lane which moved first allowing him to take the lead. Gress battled back, getting inside Mackesy but with a caution slowing incident involving Jesse Bernhagen, Stevens Point, WI., the field was bunched up for the restart. Mackesy with 5 laps remaining, was however, able to maintain his lead edging Gress at the checkered flag after 55 laps of hard fought racing. Following the two at the stripe were Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., and Monte Gress, Neillsville, WI.
\ The 2nd 55 lap Feature had Dave Neitzke, Eureka, WI., and newcomer to CWRA competition, Tod Stenson, Wis. Dells, leading the way. Stenson took command in his debut stretching his lead to 10 car lengths, while further back, Kallas, Weinfurter, D. Gress and Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., were putting on an epic battle for the next several positions. At lap 20 it was Weinfurter catching and passing Stenson for the lead with Gress quickly to 3rd. Mark Mackesy was once again fast, and moved into the 4th spot at the halfway point. A caution flag waved slowing action with Weinfurter assuming the lead on the restart. Weinfurter continued to hold off the challenges of Gress but it was Mackesy moving into 2nd with 20 laps to go putting pressure on the leading Weinfurter. The two raced nose to tail and side by side with Mackesy finally securing the top spot with 15 laps left. Mackesy, was able to build a slight cushion, eventually crossing under the checkered flag with his 2nd main event win of the night. Weinfurter and Gress battled the rest of the way for 2nd, with Weinfurter gaining the position by just inches at the finish. Following the leading trio, were Monte Gress, Jackson and Pokscyk who came from the last starting spot on the grid.
Next action for the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour will take place, Friday, July 6th, at the Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., where again two main events will be held.
SUMMARY
55 lap Feature one 1. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., 2. Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI., 3. Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., 4. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., 5. Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 6. Monte Gress, Neillsville, WI., 7. Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., 8. Derrick Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI., 9. Brian Henry, Omro, WI., 10. Tod Stenson, Wis. Dells, WI., 11. Dave Neitzke, Eureka, WI., 12. Jesse Bernhagen, Stevens Point, WI., 13. Dakota Blakeslee, Wis. Rapids, WI., 14. Michael Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI., 15. Kirby Kurth, Wis. Rapids, WI., 16. Jesse Pokscyk, Friendship, WI.
55 lap Feature 2 1. Mackesy, 2. Weinfurter, 3. D. Gress, 4. M. Gress, 5. Jackson, 6. Pockscyk, 7. Kallas, 8. Stenson, 9. Nitzke, 10. Neitzke, 11. Van Dreel, 12. Kurth, 13. Blakeslee, 14. Sievers, 15. Bernhagen, 16. Henry.
AR BODIES
10% off Product certificate 5th place Feature one Rachel Kallas
5th place Feature two Darren Jackson
Coleman Racing Products
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature one Mark Mackesy Pass for lead
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature two Jeff Weinfurter lost lead
Howe Racing Ent.
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature one Darek Gress 10th-2nd
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature two Mark Mackesy 8th-1st
Tiry's Race Engines
$100 off certificate Feature one Derrick Van Dreel 8th
$100 off certificate Feature two Tod Stenson 8th
CWRA Stars to Legends point standings as of 6/16/18
1. Mark Mackesy 302
2. Darek Gress 277
3. Jeff Weinfurter 277
4. Darren Jackson 262
5. Rachel Kallas 217
6. Derrick Van Dreel 215
7. Jesse Bernhagen 212
8. Brian Henry 203
9. Frank Nitzke 198
10. Monte Gress 191
11. Mike Sievers 164
12. Dave Neitzke 114
13. Greg Matthews 110
14. Dakota Blakeslee 106
15. Jim Sauter Jr. 82
16. Tod Stenson 54
17. Jesse Pokscyk 63
18. Brock Heinrich 62
19. Jack Greenwood 54
20. Kirby Kurth 53
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MAY 26, 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI
608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
VETERAN DRIVERS WEINFURTER, MACKESY TAKE STARS TO LEGENDS TOUR WINS IN JIM BACK MEMORIAL RACE
MARSHFIELD, WI - Two veteran drivers with many wins through the years under their belts were the class of the field here as Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., and Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., took CWRA Stars to Legends Tour as presented by Smiley's Old Time Diner, Feature wins in the Jim Back Memorial race at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., Saturday night. The race held in honor of the legendary driver, Jim Back, a many time Champion and extremely popular driver racing throughout Wisconsin from the 1960's all the way into the 1980's featured main events of 30 and 31 laps, 61 total, commemorating Back who used that car number throughout his career.
Rachal Kallas, Winneconne, WI., and Weinfurter via a draw for position prior to the start, started on the front row of main one with Weinfurter jumping out to an early lead. It didn't take long for Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., from his 4th starting spot to begin putting pressure on Weinfurter for the top spot. A caution period briefly slowed action, but back under green flag racing conditions, Weinfurter once again took the lead. Jackson again came up to challenge and the halfway point of the race saw the two battling side by side. Lap after lap Jackson tried to make the outside lane work to make the pass with Weinfurter using the inside line to deny him. Finally with just a handful of laps remaining, Jackson slipped just a bit on the backstretch, allowing Weinfurter enough breathing room to take the checkered flag first after 30 laps of intense racing. Jackson placed 2nd, with Mark Mackesy who started 10th on the grid and was closing on the duo late, settling for 3rd at the finish. Rounding out the top six finishers were Rookie driver on the Tour, Brian Henry, Omro, WI., Derrick Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI., and Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI.,
The 31 lap Feature finale didn't offer quite the drama of the first main, but saw plenty of side by side racing nonetheless. Darek Gress jumped out to the early lead with Mark Mackesy quickly moving up to challenge. By lap 6 Mackesy had taken the top spot and was never seriously challenged thereafter taking the win by a comfortable margin. Jeff Weinfurter was the man on the move in the race as he motored from his 6th starting spot to 2nd by lap 12. A caution flag tightened things up but all the racing was for positions behind Mackesy who took the checkered flag in front of Weinfurter, Jackson, up from 5th starting spot, Gress, Henry, and Kallas.
Next action for the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour group will be the Lyle Nabbefeldt Memorial race at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., Saturday night, June 16th. The race will feature two 55 lap main events honoring Nabbefeldt who raced and won often competing in the 1960's and 1970's.
SUMMARY
30 lap Feature one 1. Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., 2. Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., 3. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., 4.Brian Henry, Omro, WI., 5. Derrick Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI., 6. Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI., 7. Rachal Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 8. Jesse Bernhagen, Stevens Point, WI., 9. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., 10. Greg Matthews, Wis. Rapids, WI.,, 11. Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI., 12. Monte Gress, Neillsville, WI., 13. Jack Greenwood, Phillips, WI.
31 Lap Feature two 1. Mackesy, 2.Weinfurter, 3. Jackson 4. D. Gress, 5. Henry, 6. Kallas, 7. Bernhagen, 8. Van Dreel, 9. Nitzke, 10. Sievers, 11. Matthews, 12. M. Gress, 13. Greenwood.
AR BODIES
10% off Product certificate 5th place Feature one Derrick Van Dreel
5th place Feature two Brian Henry
Coleman Racing Products
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature one Jeff Weinfurter Pass for lead
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature two Frank Nitzke Bad breaks
Howe Racing Ent.
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature one Mark Mackesy 10th-3rd
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature two Jeff Weinfurter 6th-2nd
Tiry's Race Engines
$100 off certificate Feature one Rachal Kallas 7th
$100 off certificate Feature two Jesse Bernhagen 7th
CWRA Stars to Legends point standings as of 5/26/18
1. Mark Mackesy 196
2. Jeff Weinfurter 186
3. Darren Jackson 182
4. Darek Gress 177
5. Derrick Van Dreel 151
6. Jesse Bernhagen 151
7. Brian Henry 147
8. Rachal Kallas 140
9. Frank Nitzke 123
10. Mike Sievers 112
11. Greg Matthews 110
12. Monte Gress 109
13. Jim Sauter Jr. 82
14. Brock Heinrich 62
15. Dave Neitzke 55
16. Jack Greenwood 54
17. Dakota Blakeslee 52
MAY 18, 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI
608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
MACKESY AND GRESS VICTORS IN
CWRA GETZLOFF MEMORIAL RACE
PLOVER, WI - The Central Wisconsin Racing Association "Stars to Legends Tour, as presented by Smiley's Old time Diner, opened its racing season here at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., Friday night with the Albert Getzloff Memorial race, and it was experience and youth that ruled out as veteran Mark Mackesy Wausau, WI., and up and coming star Darek Gress, Neilsville, WI., took the headlining 30 lap Feature events. The race is held in honor of Getzloff, the long time race tire distributor who passed away several years ago.
The first 30 lap Feature found Brock Heinrich, Wausau, WI., and Cody Blakesley, Wis. Rapids, WI., leading the way with Heinrich securing the lead. Derrick Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI., wasn't wasting any time however, moving up from his 5th starting position into the lead by lap 10. With battles being waged throughout the field, Van Dreel built up a sizeable lead before the caution came out halfway through the race tightening the field. With the double file restart that CWRA utilizes in effect, Van Dreel again jumped out to the lead. Five time Tour winner in 2017 Mackesy, who started 9th in the field, was just getting rolling however moving into 3rd. With laps winding down Mackesy moved into 2nd and was planted on Van Dreel's bumper. An inside move propelled the veteran driver into the lead and he held it the remaining distance taking the checkered flag after 30 laps of hard fought racing. Darek Gress motored into the second spot late but came up a bit short and had to settle for a close 2nd at the finish. The fastest car on the night, Darren Jackson, WIs. Rapids, WI., came from the 6th starting spot to take 3rd, with Van Dreel, Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., and Jim Sauter, Jr., Tomah, WI., following.
The second 30 lap Main event found Rachal Kallas, Winneconne, WI., and Jesse Bernhagen, Stevens Point, WI., battling for the early lead. No less than a six car battle ensued behind the two with Gress steadily working his way to the front from his 7th starting position. Mackesy, after his earlier win had to start from the 8th position but he was on Gress's heels moving through the field. With just a handful of laps left Mackesy tried to make the power move to the inside of Gress with the two making contact. Both cars were able to get straightened out and back racing, but Gress proved to have what it took to keep the lead and held off Mackesy at the finish for his first ever CWRA Stars to Legends Feature win. Following Gress and Mackesy at the checkered flag were Bernhagen, Weinfurter, Sauter, Jr., and Jackson.
Next racing action for the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour group will take place at the Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., on Saturday, May 26th.
SUMMARY
30 lap Feature one 1. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., 2. Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI., 3. Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., 4. Derrick Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI., 5. Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., 6. Jim Sauter, Jr., Necedah, WI., 7. Jesse Bernhagen, Stevens Point, WI., 8. Rachal Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 9. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., 10. Brock Heinrich, Wausau, WI., 11. Monte Gress, Neilsville, WI., 12. Brian Henry, Omro, WI., 13. Cody Blakeslee, Wis. Rapids, WI., 14. Dave Neitzke, Eureka, WI., 15. Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI., 16. Greg Matthews, Wis. Rapids, WI.
30 Lap Feature two 1. D. Gress, 2. Mackesy, 3. Bernhagen, 4. Weinfurter, 5. Sauter, Jr., 6. Jackson, 7. Henry,8. Van Dreel, 9. Heinrich, 10. Kallas, 11. Neitzke, 12. Sievers, 13. Matthews, 14. Nitzke, 15. Blakesley, 16. M. Gress.
Time 1. Jackson
AR BODIES
10% off Product certificate 5th place Feature one Jeff Weinfurter
5th place Feature two Darren Jackson
Coleman Racing Products
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature one Darren Jackson 11th-3rd
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature two Dakota Blakeslee Crash
Howe Racing Ent.
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature one Mark Mackesy 9th-1st
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature two Darek Gress 7th-1st
Tiry's Race Engines
$100 off certificate Feature one Frank Nitzke 9th
$100 off certificate Feature two Rachal Kallas 9th
CWRA Stars to Legends point standings as of 5/18/18
1. Mark Mackesy 102
2. Darek Gress 97
3. Darren Jackson 92
4. Jeff Weinfurter 90
5. Jim Sauter, Jr. 82
6. Jesse Bernhagen 81
7. Derrick Van Dreel 77
8. Rachal Kallas 66
9. Brian Henry 65
10. Brock Heinrich 62
11. Frank Nitzke 59
12. Dave Neitzke 55
13. Monte Gress 53
14. Mike Sievers 53
15. Dakota Blakeslee 52
16. Greg Matthews 51
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SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2017
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI 608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
SCHLOUGH, WEINFURTER WIN MAINS; NITZKE IS STARS TO LEGENDS TOUR CHAMPION
MARSHFIELD, WI - Ernie Schlough, Greenwood, WI., and Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., won the two battles, but in the end it was Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., taking season championship honors in the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour 2017 event finale here at Marshfield Motor Speedway. Parlaying consistent finishes all year, Nitzke was able to hold off fast closing Weinfurter by just 18 points to take the crown which is the highlight of his 19 year racing career thus far. According to Nitzke, "This ranks right at the top of my racing accomplishments and I have to say it was fun, fun, fun racing with this CWRA group all year. We'll be back next year to defend our title"
In the first of two 30 lap Features, it was Brent Strelka, Freedom, WI., and Schlough starting on the front row and the two battled side by side before Schlough took command of the race. It didn't take long however for Weinfurter to charge to the front taking the race lead near the halfway point. A caution flag slowed action however and with the race eventually stopped for cleanup, Weinfurter found his race car would not shift into gear. A quick pit stop solved the problem, but Weinfurter consequently had to start at the rear of the field once racing resumed. That put Schlough back in the lead but he still had Strelka to deal with along with Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., who was right on the leaders tails. The three continued to battle but Nitzke, who had started dead last was making his way to the front. Weinfurter still showed speed and he stayed right with Nitzke as they closed on the leaders. One more race slowing skirmish occured which tightened the field back up, but on the restart it was Schlough leading the way resulting in his first ever CWRA Stars to Legends Tour Feature win. Strelka in his first appearance on the Tour in 2017 wound up second, with Jackson right behind. Weinfurter with his late race charge wound up fourth, followed by Nitzke and Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI.
Nitzke was faced with additional race drama as upon pulling into the pit area after the first main event had a left front spindle break which forced the team into rushed repairs to get ready for Feature number two. With his points lead still precariously close over Capek and Weinfurter, the team pieced the car back together and made it to the grid for the 2nd race. Mostly green flag racing was the case for the 30 lap finale with all eyes on Nitzke and Weinfurter who were the fastest cars on the track. Weinfurter ultimately brought his machine to the front with Nitzke right on his bumper. Nitzke had opportunities to pass Weinfurter, but with a championship on the line he settled for 2nd at the checkered flag and clinched the 2017 title. Following Weinfurter and Nitzke after 30 laps were Strelka, Jackson, Schlough and Capek.
Final CWRA Stars to Legends Tour Championship points found Nitzke 1st with 637, followed by Weinfurter, 619, Capek, 611, Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., who was forced to race another car in the 2nd main after mechanical issues sidelined him in the first 30 to maintain his 4th position in points at 556, and Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., who was involved in a wreck in 30 lap race one filling out the top 5 with 538.
Work is already underway in putting a schedule together for the 2018 CWRA Tour with expansion expected to at least 12 race events from the 8 contested in 2017.
To keep tabs on the latest CWRA happenings heading into 2018 go to the CWRA Facebook page or to starmakermultimedia.com under the news section.
SUMMARY
30 lap Feature one 1. Ernie Schlough, Greenwood, WI. 2.Brent Strelka, Freedom, WI., 3. Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., 4. Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., 5. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., 6. Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI., 7. Jesse Poksyck, Friendship, WI., 8. Monty Gress, Neillsville, WI., 9. Dave Neitzke, Eureka, WI., 10. Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI., 11. Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 12. Greg Matthews, Wis. Rapids, WI., 13. Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., 14. Dakota Blakeslee, Wis. Rapids, WI., 15. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., 16. Darek Gress, Neilsville, WI.
30 lap Feature two 1. Weinfurter, 2. Nitzke, 3. Strelka, 4. Jackson, 5. Schlough, 6. Capek, 7. M. Gress, 8. Van Dreel, 9. Blakeslee, 10. Kallas, 11. Neitzke, 12. Sievers, 13. Matthews, 14. Mackesy, DNS, 15. D. Gress, DNS, 16. Poksyck, DNS.
2017 CWRA Stars To Legends Tour final point standings.
1. Frank Nitzke 637
2. Jeff Weinfurter 619
3. Jake Capek 611
4. Derrick Van Dreel 556
5. Mark Mackesy 538
6. Rachel Kallas 535
7. Mike Sievers 434
8. Monty Gress 386
9. Wayne Breitenfeldt 358
10. Darek Gress 328
11. Kirby Kurth 268
12. Dakota Blakeslee 244
13. Mark Eswein 236
14. Dave Neitzke 232
15. Darren Jackson 223
16. Jeff Nowak 176
17. Jerry Brickner 174
18. Skylar Holzhausen 144
19. Steve Lichtfeld 130
20. Jesse Poksyck 118
21. Eugene Gregorich 96
22. Brock Heinrich 94
23. Putch Bentley 90
24. Ernie Schlough 90
25. Brent Strelka 90
26. Brad Tilton 65
27. Shane Smiley 59
28. Jesse Bernhagen 56
29. Greg Matthews 55
30. Brian Back 46
31. Rene Scheinoha 45
32. Michael Sauter 42
33. Jack Greenwood 25
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Derrick Van Dreel #12 in victory lane after winning Jim Back Memorial race at Marshfield Motor Speedway, May 27th, 2017. Tom Loos photo
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CWRA Stars to Legends Tour winner at Dells Raceway Park, July 15th, # 70 Rachel Kallas with Legendary short track racer Tom Reffner.
CWRA Stars to Legends Tour victor at Dells Raceway Park, July 15th, # 18 Frank Nitzke with racing Legend Marv Marzofka.
CWRA Stars to Legends Tour victor at Dells Raceway Park, July 15th, # 18 Frank Nitzke with racing Legend Marv Marzofka.
SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2017
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI
608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
SCHLOUGH, WEINFURTER WIN MAINS;
NITZKE IS STARS TO LEGENDS TOUR CHAMPION
MARSHFIELD, WI - Ernie Schlough, Greenwood, WI., and Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., won the two battles, but in the end it was Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., taking season championship honors in the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour 2017 event finale here at Marshfield Motor Speedway. Parlaying consistent finishes all year, Nitzke was able to hold off fast closing Weinfurter by just 18 points to take the crown which is the highlight of his 19 year racing career thus far. According to Nitzke, "This ranks right at the top of my racing accomplishments and I have to say it was fun, fun, fun racing with this CWRA group all year. We'll be back next year to defend our title"
In the first of two 30 lap Features, it was Brent Strelka, Freedom, WI., and Schlough starting on the front row and the two battled side by side before Schlough took command of the race. It didn't take long however for Weinfurter to charge to the front taking the race lead near the halfway point. A caution flag slowed action however and with the race eventually stopped for cleanup, Weinfurter found his race car would not shift into gear. A quick pit stop solved the problem, but Weinfurter consequently had to start at the rear of the field once racing resumed. That put Schlough back in the lead but he still had Strelka to deal with along with Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., who was right on the leaders tails. The three continued to battle but Nitzke, who had started dead last was making his way to the front. Weinfurter still showed speed and he stayed right with Nitzke as they closed on the leaders. One more race slowing skirmish occured which tightened the field back up, but on the restart it was Schlough leading the way resulting in his first ever CWRA Stars to Legends Tour Feature win. Strelka in his first appearance on the Tour in 2017 wound up second, with Jackson right behind. Weinfurter with his late race charge wound up fourth, followed by Nitzke and Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI.
Nitzke was faced with additional race drama as upon pulling into the pit area after the first main event had a left front spindle break which forced the team into rushed repairs to get ready for Feature number two. With his points lead still precariously close over Capek and Weinfurter, the team pieced the car back together and made it to the grid for the 2nd race. Mostly green flag racing was the case for the 30 lap finale with all eyes on Nitzke and Weinfurter who were the fastest cars on the track. Weinfurter ultimately brought his machine to the front with Nitzke right on his bumper. Nitzke had opportunities to pass Weinfurter, but with a championship on the line he settled for 2nd at the checkered flag and clinched the 2017 title. Following Weinfurter and Nitzke after 30 laps were Strelka, Jackson, Schlough and Capek.
Final CWRA Stars to Legends Tour Championship points found Nitzke 1st with 637, followed by Weinfurter, 619, Capek, 611, Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., who was forced to race another car in the 2nd main after mechanical issues sidelined him in the first 30 to maintain his 4th position in points at 556, and Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., who was involved in a wreck in 30 lap race one filling out the top 5 with 538.
Work is already underway in putting a schedule together for the 2018 CWRA Tour with expansion expected to at least 12 race events from the 8 contested in 2017.
To keep tabs on the latest CWRA happenings heading into 2018 go to the CWRA Facebook page or to starmakermultimedia.com under the news section.
SUMMARY
30 lap Feature one 1. Ernie Schlough, Greenwood, WI. 2.Brent Strelka, Freedom, WI., 3. Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., 4. Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., 5. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., 6. Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI., 7. Jesse Poksyck, Friendship, WI., 8. Monty Gress, Neillsville, WI., 9. Dave Neitzke, Eureka, WI., 10. Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI., 11. Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 12. Greg Matthews, Wis. Rapids, WI., 13. Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., 14. Dakota Blakeslee, Wis. Rapids, WI., 15. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., 16. Darek Gress, Neilsville, WI.
30 lap Feature two 1. Weinfurter, 2. Nitzke, 3. Strelka, 4. Jackson, 5. Schlough, 6. Capek, 7. M. Gress, 8. Van Dreel, 9. Blakeslee, 10. Kallas, 11. Neitzke, 12. Sievers, 13. Matthews, 14. Mackesy, DNS, 15. D. Gress, DNS, 16. Poksyck, DNS.
2017 CWRA Stars To Legends Tour final point standings.
1. Frank Nitzke 637
2. Jeff Weinfurter 619
3. Jake Capek 611
4. Derrick Van Dreel 556
5. Mark Mackesy 538
6. Rachel Kallas 535
7. Mike Sievers 434
8. Monty Gress 386
9. Wayne Breitenfeldt 358
10. Darek Gress 328
11. Kirby Kurth 268
12. Dakota Blakeslee 244
13. Mark Eswein 236
14. Dave Neitzke 232
15. Darren Jackson 223
16. Jeff Nowak 176
17. Jerry Brickner 174
18. Skylar Holzhausen 144
19. Steve Lichtfeld 130
20. Jesse Poksyck 118
21. Eugene Gregorich 96
22. Brock Heinrich 94
23. Putch Bentley 90
24. Ernie Schlough 90
25. Brent Strelka 90
26. Brad Tilton 65
27. Shane Smiley 59
28. Jesse Bernhagen 56
29. Greg Matthews 55
30. Brian Back 46
31. Rene Scheinoha 45
32. Michael Sauter 42
33. Jack Greenwood 25
AUGUST 10TH, 2017
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI
608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
CAPEK AND MACKESY WIN, POINTS RACE TIGHTENS ON CWRA STARS TO LEGENDS TOUR
WAUSAU, WI - Picking up his first Feature win of 2017 here at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., Thursday night, August 10th, Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI., has closed the gap in the season points battle on the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour heading into the final event of the year at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., September 8th. Local star, Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., also won a Feature on the night, his 5th of the 2017 campaign.
Capek followed early pacesetters Wayne Breitenfeldt, Wausau, WI., and Tour point leader, Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., in the first 25 lap main before making the pass for the lead on lap 8. Meanwhile, Mark Mackesy utilizing the high groove was on the move motoring up to third behind Nitzke by the halfway point of the race. With action plentiful among drivers in the entire field, Mackesy finally secured the 2nd position with three laps remaining. Capek who had built a bit of a cushion stayed in front however and was able to capture his 1st CWRA Stars to Legends Tour Feature finishing ahead of Mackesy, Nitzke, Darek Gress, Neilsville, WI., Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., and newcomer to the Tour, Brock Heinrich, Wausau, WI., the top 6.
The 2nd 25 lap main started with Heinrich and Weinfurter putting on a battle up front. Weinfurter would secure the lead, but Mackesy was again on the move challenging for the top spot by the mid point of the race. Several cautions slowed the action for the 2nd half of the event and with one final restart featuring Mackesy and Heinrich on the front row, Mackesy with years of racing savvy, was able to grab the lead and hang on for the win. At the finish it was Mackesy followed by Heinrich, Weinfurter, Darek Gress, Derrick Van Dreel and Capek the top 6.
With the one event remaining at Marshfield, no less than 6 drivers have a mathematical chance at winning the 2017 CWRA Stars to Legends season point championship. Nitzke saw his lead cut to 16 points over Capek, with Weinfurter, Van Dreel, Mackesy and Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., all within striking distance.
For additional information on CWRA go to the CWRA Facebook page or to starmakermultimedia.com under the news section.
SUMMARY
25 lap Feature one 1. Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI. 2. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI. 3.Frank Nitzke Berlin, WI.,, WI., 4. Darek Gress,, Neillsville, WI., 5. Jeff Weinfurter,Wis. Rapids, WI., 6. Brock Heinrich, Wausau, WI. 7.. Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., 8. Wayne Breitenfeldt, Wausau, WI., 9. Jeff Nowak, Wausau, WI., 10. Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 11. Monty Gress, Neilsville, WI., 12. Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI.
25 lap Feature two 1. Mackesy, 2. Heinrich, 3. Weinfurter, 4. D. Gress, 5. Van Dreel, 6. Capek, 7. Breitenfeldt, 8. Nowak, 9. Nitzke, 10. Kallas, 11. Sievers, 12. M. Gress.
Qualifying 1. Heinrich
CWRA Stars To Legends Tour point standings as of 8/10/17
1. Frank Nitzke 551
2. Jake Capek 535
3. Jeff Weinfurter 527
4. Derrick Van Dreel 495
5. Mark Mackesy 487
6. Rachel Kallas 476
7. Mike Sievers 376
8. Wayne Breitenfeldt 358
9. Monty Gress 316
10. Darek Gress 279
-30-
AUGUST 4TH, 2017
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI
608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
MACKESY AND WEINFURTER POST WINS IN CWRA MAINS AT GOLDEN SANDS SPEEDWAY
PLOVER, WI - It was round six of the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour here Friday night at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., with Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., and Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., picking up big wins in the two 30 lap Feature events. For Mackesy it was win number 4 on the Tour, while Weinfurter who has had a myriad of mechanical problems racing this season it was finally breaking through for a main event win.
Mackesy left no doubt who had the fastest car in the first 30 lap main as he immediately jumped out to a 6 car length lead from his front row starting position. Battles for the next several positions were being waged by no less than 7 drivers with Weinfurter and Mark Eswein, Wis. Rapids, WI., securing the spots at the 10 lap mark of the race. The two battled each other for the 2nd position for the next 10 laps which allowed Mackesy to further lengthen his already huge lead. Without a caution flag to slow the field, Mackesy would maintain his lead the rest of the way and take the checkered flag over Weinfurter and Eswein. Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI., drove a steady race to place 4th, with Tour points leader Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., 5th and Jerry Brickner, Wausau, WI., 6th.
The second 30 lap main started with former CWRA champion Kirby Kurth, Wis. Rapids, WI., taking the early lead. It didn't take long however for drivers to be racing three wide as both Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., and Dave Neitzke, Eureka, WI., were looking for a way around the wily veteran driver Kurth. Neitzke got his nose out front briefly, but Eswein and Weinfurter were on the move challenging for the lead in a blink of an eye. Eswein and Kurth made contact at this point which brought out the caution slowing the field. Both drivers were sent to the rear for the restart which put Weinfurter in the drivers seat to take the lead and eventual win. Mackesy, after starting 12th in the field maneuvered his way through tight traffic to place 2nd, with Brickner, 3rd, Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., 4th, Nitzke 5th and Capek, 6th.
With his consistent finishes on the night, Nitzke still holds the Tour point lead heading into the next event at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., Thursday night, August 10th.
For additional information on CWRA go to the CWRA Facebook page or to starmakermultimedia.com under the news section.
SUMMARY
30 lap Feature one 1. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI. 2. Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI. 3. Mark Eswein, Wis. Rapids, WI.,4. Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI., 5. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., 6. Jerry Brickner, Wausau, WI. 7.. Dakota Blakeslee, Wis. Rapids, WI., 8. Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., 9. Dave Neitzke, Eureka, WI., 10. Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 11. Wayne Breitenfeldt, Wausau, WI., 12. Kirby Kurth, Wis. Rapids, WI., 13. Jeff Nowak, Wausau, WI., 14. Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., 15. Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI.
30 lap Feature two 1. Weinfurter, 2. Mackesy, 3. Brickner, 4. Van Dreel, 5. Nitzke, 6. Capek, 7. Kallas, 8. Blakeslee, 9. Nowak, 10. Neitzke, 11. Breitenfeldt, 12. Sievers, 13. Kurth, 14. Eswein, 15. Jackson, DNS.
Qualifying 1. Eswein
CWRA Stars To Legends Tour point standings as of 8/4/17
1. Frank Nitzke 474
2. Jake Capek 446
3. Jeff Weinfurter 439
4. Derrick Van Dreel 418
5. Rachel Kallas 414
6. Mark Mackesy 383
7. Mike Sievers 318
8. Wayne Breitenfeldt 287
9. Kirby Kurth 268
10. Monty Gress 259
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July 15th, 2017
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI
608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
KALLAS, NITZKE SCORE WINS IN CWRA, MARZOFKA
REFFNER EVENT AT DELLS RACEWAY PARK
PLOVER, WI - The CWRA Stars to Legends Tour event was held to honor two stars of short track racing, Marv Marzofka and Tom Reffner and after two 50 lap Feature races it was upstart Rachel Kallas of Winneconne, WI., and veteran Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., taking the prestigious wins here at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., Saturday night.
The two legendary drivers in the annals of short track racing, Marzofka and Reffner were on hand for the event which was added incentive for the 17 car Super Late Model field in attendance hoping to take home the top prize.
The first 50 lap main, the Reffner race, started out with Kallas and Wayne Breitenfeldt, Wausau, WI., on the front row with the young, female Kallas immediately jumping out to the lead. With a strong car, Kallas stretched her margin to a half straightaway at the 15 lap point while Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., and others moved through the field to challenge. Weinfurter was ready to make his move for the lead, when suddenly his engine let go heading into turn 3, scattering cars everywhere. Unfortunately for Weinfurter, Mark Eswein, Wis. Rapids, WI., and Jesse Bernhagen, Mauston, WI., in his first ever CWRA start, their races were done as slides in the oil and contact with each other and the wall caused too much damage for any of them to continue. Once racing resumed it was Nitzke who had moved up from his 8th starting position challenging for the lead. Nitzke in his Ford Fusion tried inside and outside moves to pass, but could never find a way around Kallas who scored her first ever and extremely popular CWRA Stars to Legends Tour win. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., and a three time winner on the Tour in 2017 quietly made his way to the front finishing a close 3rd in the main. He was followed by Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI., Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI., and Breitenfeldt the top six.
The second 50 lapper, the Marzofka race, found Bradley Tilton, all the way from Cheyenne, WY., starting from the pole position and taking the initial lead. Tilton was driving like his car was shot out of a rocket, building over a half lap lead by lap 30. Tilton maintained his lead and appeared to have things well in hand with just three laps to go when a right front shock blew out forcing him from the race. Nitzke who had started 9th found himself in the lead with the Tilton departure and held off Monty Gress, Neillsville, WI., the last three laps for the win. Darek Gress who had a great night of racing followed in 3rd, with Mackesy, Breitenfeldt, and Capek next in line at the checkered.
With his 2nd and 1st place finishes in the mains, Nitzke has re-emerged as the Stars to Legends points leader heading into the next event, Friday, August 4th, at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI.
For additional information on CWRA go to the CWRA Facebook page or to starmakermultimedia.com under the news section.
SUMMARY
50 lap Reffner Feature 1. Rachel Kalles, Winneconne, WI. 2. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI. 3. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI. 4. Darek Gress, Neilsville, WI. WI. 5. Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI. 6. Wayne Breitenfeldt, Wausau, WI. 7. Bradley Tilton, Cheyenne, WY. 8. Steve Lichtfeld, Portage, WI. 9. Kirby Kurth, Wis. Rapids, WI. WI. 10. Monty Gress Neillsville, WI. 11. Dakota Blakeslee, Wis. Rapids, WI. WI. 12.Dave Neitzke, Eureka, WI. 13. Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI. 14.Mark Eswein, Wis. Rapids, WI. 15. Jesse Bernhagen, Mauston, WI. 16. Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI. 17. Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI.
50 lap Marzofka Feature 1. Nitzke, 2. M. Gress, 3. D. Gress,, 4. Mackesy, 5. Breitenfeldt, 6. Capek, 7. Kalles, 8. Sievers, 9. Blakeslee, 10. Neitzke, 11. Lichtfeld, 12. Tilton, 13. Kurth, 14. Van Dreel, 15. Weinfurter, DNS, 16. Eswein, DNS, 17. Bernhagen, DNS.
Qualifying 1. Eswein
CWRA Stars To Legends Tour point standings as of 7/15/17
1. Frank Nitzke 393
2. Jake Capek 365
3. Rachel Kallas 344
4. Jeff Weinfurter 343
5. Derrick Van Dreel 341
6. Mark Mackesy 286
7. Mike Sievers 265
8. Monty Gress 258
9. Wayne Breitenfeldt 229
10. Kirby Kurth 213
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JULY 7, 2017
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI
608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
CWRA STARS TO LEGENDS TOUR EVENT AT DELLS RACEWAY PARK HONORS MARZOFKA, REFFNER
PLOVER, WI - The next event for the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour will be at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., on Saturday, July 15th and will honor legendary drivers Marv Marzofka and Tom Reffner.
The current CWRA Tour is named in honor of drivers such as Marzofka and Reffner who both pioneered and starred in stock car racing for many years in Wisconsin as well as across the Country. Both drivers will be in attendance for the event July 15th.
For Marzofka who has won upwards of 300 Feature events during his racing career, the biggest highlight was winning four track Championships in one season, 1978, a fete never before or since duplicated for the top division, CWRA Late Model, of racing. Marzofka also won the prestigious Minnesota State Fair race twice in his career which ran from the late 1950s all the way to the late 1980s.
Reffner can boast of being one of only two drivers to ever win 67 Feature events in one season, 1975, Dick Trickle being the other. Reffner also won the first of a kind and very financially rewarding World Cup 400 race held at I-70 Speedway of Odessa, MO. in 1976, and captured two huge victories at Colorado International Speedway of Colorado Springs, CO., in 1977 and 1978. Reffner's career also started in the late 1950s and ran all the way into the 1990s, culminating in over 400 Feature victories.
Both Marzofka and Reffner are also former Dells season points champions so the event will also serve as a homecoming of sorts.
The event is expected to attract 15-20 CWRA Super Late Model cars including two time main event winner in 2017 and current Stars to Legends Tour points leader Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., along with top 5 in points Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI., and Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI.
A full program of racing is planned for the night capped off with two 50 lap CWRA Stars to Legends Tour Feature events. Racing is set to start at 7:00 PM.
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Mark Mackesy #12 Derrick Van Dreel #12
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Mike Miller Cutlass #18
Tom Carlson #51
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#55 Ken Matthews, #30 Marlin Walbeck, #93 John Ziegler, #72 Jeannie Kind, #31 Glen Hanson, #44, Del Kemnetz, #55 Bill Grabarski, #50 Mike Schleip or Terry Semrow, #67 Butch Steinbach, #11 Larry Baumel. Wow #61 Jim Back.
INFLUENCERS OF WISCONSIN RACING
By Dale P. Danielski
2023 November
A LEGEND OF SHORT TRACK RACING RUNS HIS FINAL LAP
Heroes aren't supposed to die. Heroes live on forever. But that's exactly what happened here on October 20th, 2023, as short track racing legend Tom Reffner, my biggest hero, passed away.
My dad was a race fan, going to events in the Milwaukee, WI., area as well as the Griffith Park Speedway outside Wis. Rapids, WI. My dad was also one of the best welders in Central Wisconsin working at the mill in town. Of course that is where the pipe fitters operated out of as well, of which Tom Reffner was one of them. When it came time to finish up their projects and welding was needed, my dad was the chosen one, as his quality workmanship was superior to the others. Tom told me, "When we needed a welder, old Emil is who we wanted as he was the best."
And that is how my dad got to know Tom Reffner and the racing interest was next. Once dad mentioned that to me, Tom became the one I followed.
I could go on and on statistically here, but Tom Reffner highlights I have, are probably more mundane and may end up boring people. There is no doubt my interest began with my dad's relationship with Tom, it just happened it was in racing. And what a place to be. Local racing was just getting rolling in the area. Tracks cropping up everywhere, race cars having a character to them that made it fun to identify with and follow. What a time to become a fan. Unfortunately, my dad died shortly thereafter and I was pretty lost for quite awhile. There is no doubt Tom Reffner filled a lot of that void just by being who he was and a heck of a racer besides. You know how confidence can be built just by knowing someone is out there, that even without them knowing, are providing guidance as the trials and tribulations of life occur? That was Tom Reffner to me.
Time marches on and everyone has goals to pursue. This was my position with short track racing, following it for many years and ultimately, owning and operating my own series, albeit way from my Central Wisconsin home. I was actually making a living doing that, which was pretty much a dream come true all starting with that early introduction with my Dad and Tom Reffner. The pursuit eventually brought me back to Wisconsin to try to help make racing better via tracks and sanctioning groups. By that time, in the late 1990s, the Tom Reffner racing career was winding down and with that Tom was also hopeful of getting the sport back on track, this time from a rules, sanctioning body and track perspective. With that, we were able to collaborate on a number of projects and with each of our endeavors apart, we were able to see things differently and put our ideas together in a way that could work. There was a lot of reward in that and it proved to be a very enjoyable time. Right to the very end.
The racing reunions I organized became very popular through the years, as bringing back racers that entertained us for years, for a day in the sun, was very rewarding. Certainly one of the biggest moments was getting Tom back behind the wheel of a race car. .
Bringing back celebrities of the day to my Champions Reunions at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway was not unusual, as we had many attend. But bringing back 78 year old Tom Reffner to compete once again for his last race, was very special. The whole idea originally, was to have Mike Miller come back for the 2018 Oktoberfest event and wheel a Camaro he had built for racing in 1981. It had been rescued from land that had flooded, nearly washing the car away, and restored by racer, fabricator, Dan Navrestad. Mike wanted to come back, but in doing so had hoped to compete with fellow competitors Marv Marzofka and Tom Reffner. Marv just wasn't equipped to do so and it seemed that the least likely would be Tom Reffner. Miller tried gearing up for the event by running Go-Karts in Florida, where he resides, but found too much had changed and competing once again was not in the cards. With the entire arrangement falling apart, I decided to call Tom, and his response, to my surprise, was "I'll do it, if I can practice in the car." What started out as an attempt to get Mike Miller back behind the wheel of his former car, now turned to getting Tom Reffner back behind the wheel. What better way to do it, then to get a hold of friend and huge racing supporter John Gilbertson, who just happened to have an AMC Javelin that was a look alike to the one that Tom drove to 67 Feature wins in 1975. Tom got his practice in and after numerous difficulties fitting in the car, finally got squared away and was ready to go. The stage was set and Tom got lined up. The Oktoberfest event featured nearly 20 cars and Tom chose to start near the back of the field and get better acclimated to the car and racing again.. He did so with urgency, as in the 15 lap main event, he passed car after car, eventually ending up in 4th position with his only foe, a lack of laps to advance further.
There were a lot of smiling faces in the stands and down in the pit area after the race, as those on hand were able to one last time, catch a glimpse of undeniably one of the best short track stock car racers in history, competing again.
The Blue Knight, Tom Reffner has now completed his last lap. As in all his years of racing, he didn't disappoint.
A great career in racing, notes, quotes, and anecdotes for the Blue Knight. "If his doctor knew he was in that race car he'd be in big trouble." Tom's wife Dee Dee admonishing me for setting up and allowing the whole scenario to unfold with Tom back racing. Ultimately she understood how important to Tom it was, but also told me, "Don't do that again!"... Some of the biggest wins for Reffner throughout his storied career included winning 67 Feature races in 1975 as well as winning 37 more in 1976, including the $10,000 victory in the World Cup 400 at I-70 Speedway of Odessa, MO. With the $10,000 win, Tom immediately traveled to the Bobby Allison shop and spent the money on all his AMC parts... Reffner won the 150 lap Feature two years in a row, 1977, '78 at Colorado Springs International Speedway, Colorado Springs, CO. The victories combined, brought him over $6,000... Tom Reffner was the victor in 412 Feature races in a career that spanned 40 years...I was able to catch the racing in 1976 at New Smyrna Beach Florida Speedway in 1976 of which Tom was a participant. A friend and myself down there for the first time, with barely enough money to get there were helped out by Tom who let us stay in a room they had for just $20. We had to do laundry for the Reffner crew as payment as well and that included washing everyone's socks. Of course upon taking them out of the dryer nobody had a clue which ones were theirs. Pete Haferman who was Tom's crew chief at the time was particularly displeased with us. He was even more displeased when yours truly headed the 1969 Buick Skylark we were driving the wrong way on the highway back to our base in Port Orange, FL. We all obviously survived...Really enjoyed all the visits to the Reffner race car shop on the East side of Wisconsin Rapids. Visits included experiences with Crew man John Bovee's dog Meathead. Let's just say John taught the dog some things other than normal manners that you picked up on as soon as you walked through the door!...When Tom got totally frustrated with the handling of his Bemco Hornet, Meathead almost became the recipient of a new doghouse that looked like a race car. Tom eventually found some places to race the car where rules were more favorable like the 1977 Colorado race win. The car did win 16 Features on the year...Tom Reffner who could be quite fiery, at least earlier in his career upon alighting his car in the pits after an incident on the race track, "You pull that on me again and I'll mash you!" I don't think that racer dared try that again...I remember having the opportunity to carry the American flag for the National Anthem for Tom and thinking no big deal. Of course it was at West Salem where they carry a fair amount of speed even for a slow lap. I nearly had the flag pulled out of my grasp, flying out of the car on the backstretch.! Now that would have been embarrassing. Tom was sitting there laughing...Most folks know of Tom as the Blue Knight, but he had other nicknames. Tombo, when teaming up with Jimbo, Jim Back. Mercury Mind Stomper was another of them that he carried on his 1969 Mercury Comet. There was also Tachyon and Tachyon II which came later on. Originally I asked Tom why the nicknames? "For awhile there it was just the thing to do, everyone was coming up with one, those were mine." Took me quite awhile to figure out what Tachyon was...I got to know the Reffner family quite well through the years even chumming around now and then. When son Bryan was in the shop one day, helping Dad, I remember a current rock song coming on the radio and Tom commenting, "At least I can listen to that compared to that other station you had on." Ah, yes, generation to generation... According to Tom, "1980 was a bad year for me. I had wrecked really bad in 1979 at Elko Speedway and my head just wasn't right. I was doing things with the car and didn't realize why. We figured out later, it was a closed head wound, which nobody even knew what that was until later on.."..In one particular season, 1978, Tom won with three different race cars. He had wrecked the Dennis Frings Concord and brought out his Bemco Hornet to race at Capital Speedway. With the Concord under repair, he won with his homebuilt Javelin at Kaukauna. He won a number of races with the Concord as that was a good car for him in 1978, '79. Bryan Reffner ended up with the Frings car as Tom moved into the Bac-Kar Chassis years of racing. Tom Reffner was a three time winner of the Oktoberfest race at La Crosse Speedway, West Salem, WI. He won the very first Oktoberfest 100 in 1970...'If I thought I could have passed for the lead sooner I would have. I knew if I could still see the leader in front of me I had a chance." 1971 Uncola 100 winner at Elko Minnesota Speedway, Tom Reffner. "Super America was really good to us. It started out with fuel for the race car and our own vehicles and then to them paying for race car chassis. They really treated us good."... I can remember many a day in my parts selling days having "accidentally mixed" mismatched paint for the racers. Save a buck, make a buck to help the effort...
The "Blue Knight" Charles "Tom" Reffner has won the final race, just like we knew he would.
November 21st 1940-October 20th, 2023
Photos by Dale: Tom Reffner 1949 Oldsmobile #88. #88 Tombo. Mid to late 1960s era Reffner race cars. The Mercury Mind Stomper Comet Calais. The 1971 Mercury Cyclone that Tom won the very 1st Oktoberfest race with. It was Cyclone body on the Comet race car chassis. The pony car era Ford Mustangs. The fastest car in the land, the Blue Knight Tom Reffner Javelin. Tachyon. Kurt Luoma photo. A colorful history for the Bemco Hornet. Kurt Luoma photo. AMC Concord 1978 and 1979. The Bac-Kar era.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI. 54650. 608-783-5125 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2021 May
You pretty much know the result in advance when Nick Anvelink starts on the pole of a race at Shawano Speedway, Shawano, WI. He is going to win! That's exactly what happened here Saturday, April 17th, as Anvelink led start to finish in the Dirt Kings Late Model feature at the 1/2 mile clay oval.
For Anvelink, it was his 15th overall Dirt Kings win and it came in front of a huge, near standing room only crowd, in the opening race of the season here.
Was great to get out and witness some action so early in 2021, as you all know of how things started in the racing World in 2020. They didn't. At least, until much later.
It was a first for this scribe in seeing the Dirt King Late Model group and it is a good looking field of racers. They came out 27 strong and competitive racing was seen all night long. Following Anvelink to the win in the main on the night were Justin Ritchie, Troy Springborn, Ron Berna and Mike Mullen.
Of course other racing occurred during the evening as the opener featured 5 divisions of racing and being partial to the Modified division, since we ran a Tour for those folks for 5 years, enjoyed watching Mike Mullen capture the win in that feature race. I like the looks of the cars that make up the division, but it definitely looks like they are getting a bit carried away with the bodies on them. Rather than go into detail we'll call them Late Model race car Jr.
One of my all-time favorite divisions of racing, the Stock Cars, were also on the nights card. These racers always seem to put on a great show, although tonight they were a bit crash and spin happy, nonetheless competitively racing to the end of the race. A familiar name in these parts, Jeremy Christens took that win.
More on the entry level of things are the Sport Mods and the Mighty 4's. The Sport Mods look like the top ranked Modifieds I had racing on my National Tour years ago, as evolution has definitely taken place! The Mighty 4's appear to give those wanting to test the racing water a good chance to, as they are restricted enough to allow for getting some laps in to see how you fare.
All in all, a good way to open the 2021 racing season here at Shawano Speedway. There's a good chance we will sneak back over there for another race this year.
Here and there...Well, all things at some point must come to an end. As most of you probably know, I have served in the role of president of CWRA, now being the 3rd year. I have assisted the group in various capacities the past 5 years, shortly after they decided to reform after a long hiatus. It's probably another 30 years of involvement you can add on, helping out in some shape or form, dating back decades. Unfortunately, due to major philosophical differences, and much internal strife, I have resigned from that position as of April 12th, 2021. The situation has caused numerous strained relations with people I have worked with for over 30 years and that is unacceptable. Therefore, the decision was made to move on...On another note, I'm very seriously considering backing off on my contributions to MRC. Maybe go with a special features column now and then, if Dan "The Man" Plan allows, possibly like the late great Paul Harvey used to do. Pick a topic and fill you in on, "The Rest of the Story." With my race attendance down these days, after all, I am officially retired, time to wind down a bit right, and not one very often to give blow by blow race descriptions and results, there just isn't that much for me to report on. The state of the sport in my eyes, especially pavement racing, is in need of repair and that doesn't help my outlook, or writing creativity to report on it, either. We'll see, a bit more thought is needed here. I guess if you don't see anything in the next issue or two from me, you'll know the answer...
Looking back to June 26th, 1971, it was Roger Paul winning the 20 lap feature at the Shawano Speedway, Shawano, WI. Following Paul at the stripe were M.J. McBride, Dave Conger, Roger Perret, Dan Ambrose and Jerry Smith. On June 22nd, 1971, it was Dave Conger winning the feature race at Leo's Speedway, Oshkosh, WI. Following Conger were Russ Kleinschmidt, Bryce Spoehr, Wilmer Shoppenhorst, Ron Van Roy and Ernie Rathke. Dave Conger won the 25 lap feature race at Brown County Fairgrounds Speedway, Depere, WI., on June 27th, 1971, in front of a record crowd of 4,200. Following Conger were Jerry Smith, Roger Paul, Russ Peterson Bob Kleinschmidt and Red Issacson. July 2nd, 1971, it was Tom Jensen winning the Late Model feature at the AF Speedway, Friendship, WI. Following Jensen at the finish were Gordie Platt, Bob Hofschild, and Bob Zynda. On June 24th, 1972, it was Don Schmidt winning the feature at Rangeline Speedway, Rozelville, WI. Following Schmidt were John Bell and Roger Guldan. On June 21st, 1972, at Central State Speedway, Colby, WI., it was Don Churdimsky winning the feature over Don Schmidt and Bob White. Fred Bender won the 50 lap feature on July 15th, 1973 at the Columbus 151 Speedway, Columbus, WI. Following Bender were Roy Shackleford, Deb Langsdorf, Jerry Eckhardt, Conrad Morgan and Fritz Bishofberger. On July 11th, 1973 it was Wes Eckert winning the feature at the Cedarburg Speedway, Cedarburg, WI. Following Eckert were Harry Wittman, Tom Klippel, John Reiser, Frank Smith and Jack Brewer. And, if you were wondering the theme here, all these tracks are closed and for the most part gone except for Shawano Speedway.
More of Dale's pics from the past 62 years. #95, Roger Paul. #56 Freddy Bender leads 'em. #20 Dave Conger cool Chevelle.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 701 Indiana Avenue, Stevens Point, WI. 54481 715-344-9072 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2021 April
I honestly think racing will get started on time on our level in 2021, but it hasn't yet for this scribe, so nothing to report, and that means, ONE MORE TIME for our Back in the Day Feature! DICK TRICKLE opened the Capital Super Speedway, Oregon, WI., on April 6th, 1975 , winning the 30 lap late Model Feature. Following Trickle at the finish were Johnny Reimer, Mike Miller, John Ziegler, and Tom Reffner. Reffner finally debuted his new AMC Javelin after a year of waiting, by setting fast time, which was just the beginning of his setting the short track racing World on fire for the year. Hobbystock victor on the day was BOB FORD. TOM REFFNER won both 50 lap Features and set fast time on May 10th, 1975 at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. Following Reffner in the first 50 were, Bob Gunn, Dick Trickle, Dave Watson, Joe Shear and Mike Miller. 2Nd 50 found Reffner 1st followed by Marv Marzofka, Miller, John Ziegler, Larry Detjens and Bruce Sparrman. Sportsman Feature was won by GENO BROSCH with the Hobbystock main going to JOHN BENDER...Sunday, May 11th, 1975 it was BILL RETALLICK winning the Late Model Feature at Columbus Speedway, Columbus, WI. Following Retallick were John Ziegler, Paul Smith, John Knaus, Howie Weiss, and Jerry Eckhardt...NEIL CALLAHAN drove his 1974 Bemco Nova to the main event win at Tomahawk Speedway, Tomahawk, WI., Saturday, May 10th. Following Callahan were Chuck Abraham, Jim Bartelt, Jim Hornung, and Larry Abraham. Sport stock Feature went to DON PETTA...RUSS PETERSON won the 25 lap Late Model Feature at the Hales Corners Speedway, Hales Corners, WI., Saturday, May 10th. Following Peterson were Wally Jors, Mike Melius, Jim Boehles, and Frank Smith. Sportsman Feature winner was JIM HENDRICKS. 5,700 fans witnessed the season opening race...On May 9th, 1975, it was ED HOWE in his H lettered Camaro race car winning the AMC 100 Feature at the Fort Wayne Speedway, Fort Wayne, IN. Following Howe were Earl Ross, Randy Sweet, Bob Senneker, Tony Diano, Rick Knotts, Larry Detjens, Dick Crup, Tom Reffner and Moose Myers...PHIL PRUSAK won the Feature, Sunday, May 11th, 1975 at the Stillwater Speedway, Stillwater, MN. Following Prusak were Red Steffen, Rich Olson, Bob Lawrence and Jack Harder...On June 6th, 1975, it was HAROLD MUELLER winning the Feature at the Black River Country Raceway, Neillsville, WI. Following Mueller were Leon Plank, Tom Merkel, Roger Ress, and Tom Loos...LARRY MOORE won the 100 lap USAC stock car race at Salem Speedway, Salem, IN., June 8th, 1975. Following Moore were Jeff Bloom, Butch Hartman, Ralph Latham, Bay Darnell and Terry Ryan...TOM REFFNER drove to his 18th Feature win Thursday, June 5th, 1975 at Wausau, Wisconsin's State Park Speedway. Following Reffner in the Feature were Mike Miller, Marv Marzofka, Larry Detjens and Larry Schuler. Sportsman Feature winner was IVAN FRAAZA...DAN PRZIBOROWSKI won the Feature, Saturday, June 7th, 1975, at the Elko Speedway, Elko, MN. Following Prziborowski were Mark Lamoreaux, Bill Oas, John Boegeman, Mike De Mars and Don James. Hobbystock Feature winner was DICK COLLINS. The MSA Sprint car Feature went to JERRY RICHERT...TOM NESBITT won the Feature June 6th, 1975, at the North Star Speedway, Blaine, MN. Jerry Legatt placed 2nd followed by Myron Erickson, Kenny Mann, and Mike Kirk...Saturday, June 28th, 1975, TOM STEUDING, driving the former Jim Back Camaro, won the 20 lap Feature at Shawano Speedway, Shawano, WI. Following Steuding were M.J. Mc Bride, Cork Surprise, Dave Conger, J.J. Smith, and Marcus Brei...RED STEFFEN captured his 3rd Feature win at River Raceways, Fountain City, WI., Friday, June 29th, 1975. Following Steffen were Phil Prusak, Harold Mueller, Jim Schell, Dick Sorenson and John Foegen...KEN BIERTZER won the Modified Feature at Raceway Park, Beaver Dam, WI., Tuesday, June 24th, 1975. Following Biertzer were Jim Hedges, Bill Johnson, III, Ralph Stern and Bill Johnson, II. The Sportsman Feature went to TEETER FEHLING...LARRY O'BRIEN won the 30 lap Feature, Saturday, June 28th, 1975, at Rockford Speedway, Rockford, IL. Following O'Brien were Willie Reints, Dana Czach, Jim Kersten and Danny Bellard...TOM REFFNER won Feature number 31 at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., Sunday, June 29th, 1975. Following Reffner were Marv Marzofka, Larry Detjens, Dave Boodle and Jim Back. Sportsman Feature winner was VIC GETZLOFF...FUZZY FASSBENDER won the 30 lap Modified Feature at Plymouth Fairgrounds Speedway, Plymouth, WI., Saturday, July 12th, 1975. Following Fassbender were Etchie Biertzer, Bill Johnson, II, Bob Robel and Gib Wiser...DICK TRICKLE won the 50 lap Feature at the Marathon County Fairgrounds, Wausau, WI., Sunday, August 10th, 1975. Following in a cloud of dust behind Trickle was Tom Steuding...TOM JONES won both Late Model Features, Saturday, Sunday, August, 9th, 10th, 1975, at the Waukegan Speedway, Waukegan, IL...SCOTT HANSEN won the 30 lap Feature Sunday, May 6th, 1984, at Slinger Super Speedway, Slinger, WI. Following Hansen were Dave Klein, Joel Laufer, Jim Weber, and Conrad Morgan. The Sportsman Feature went to JIM ROGERS, Jr...TOM KAMISH won the late Model Feature at Elko Speedway, Elko, MN., May 19th, 1984. Following Kamish at the finish were Craig Peterson and Dave Schmitt...KEVIN STEPAN won the Late Model Feature at the State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., Thursday, May 17th, 1984. Following Stepan were Tom Reffner, Wayne Lodholz, Jim Back and Lyle Nowak. Heat race winners were Les Stankowski, Bob Mackesy, and Lodholz. The Semi-Feature went to Rollin' Royce Rossier, while the dash was won by Ted Musgrave. Fast time honors went to Reffner at 14:473 seconds. Hobbystock Feature winner was Marv Zuidema...FRITZ SCHARF won the Street Stock Feature at Crandon Speedway, Crandon, WI., in July of 1984. DUANE DUNBAR won the Late Model Feature and was followed by Pat Zdroik, Putch Bentley, Beetle Baily and Steve Crawford...On July 4th, 1984, RICHARD PETTY won his 200th NASCAR Grand National race in the Firecracker 400 at Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL...TED MUSGRAVE won the CWRA Late Model Feature, July 7th, 1984 at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. Following Musgrave were Don Turner, Tom Reffner, Bob Gunn and Rick Wateski. SCOTT SUTHERLAND won the Sportsman Feature...On July 8th, 1984, at Slinger Super Speedway, Slinger, WI., it was MIKE REICHENBERGER winning his first career Late Model Feature. Following Reichenberger were Rich Bickle, Jr., Lowell Bennett, Al Schill and Conrad Morgan...LEON PLANK won the Bud 1000 Feature at Red Cedar Speedway, Menomonie, WI., July 6th, 1984. Following Plank were Ron Schreiner, Les Duellman, Tom Nesbitt and Pete Parker...GREG HOLZHAUSEN won the 20 lap Feature, Wednesday, May 21st, 1986, at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. Following Holzhausen at the stripe were, Tom Reffner, Don Turner, Rick Wateski, Steve Holzhausen and Kevin Cywinski. The Semi-Feature went to Grant Wilson, who sadly passed away the next day from a brain aneurysm. The Sportsman Feature was won by Jim Schell...DON TURNER won the CWRA Feature at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI., May 24th, 1986. Following Turner in the 50 lap race were Bob Gunn, Rick Wateski, Greg Holzhausen, Tom Reffner and Tom Musgrave. BOB LEE won the Sportsman Feature, while SHAWN PFAFF won the Street Stock main...KERRY HANSEN won the Late Model Feature at Marshfield Super Speedway, Marshfield, WI., July 5th, 1986. Following Hansen were Ron Schreiner and Steve Haas...After 10 years of trying, CURT TILLMAN won his first career Late Model Feature at Rockford Speedway, Rockford, IL, July 3rd, 1986. Following Tillman were Randy Sargent and Bobby Hacker...BRYAN REFFNER won the Late Model Feature at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., on June 6th, 1991. Following Reffner were Bobby Stolze, Wayne Breitenfeldt, Wayne Lodholz, Joe Krzykowski and Bobby Weiss. The Sportsman Feature went to MIKE HAVEL...MIKE MILLER won the Nestle Beverages 150 NASCAR Winston All-Pro Feature here May 25th, 1991, at the Lanier Raceway, Flowery Branch, Ga. It was Miller's first win in over 8 years... Well, we almost made it as far as we thought we would in the latest of our Back in the Day Features, which means we may, just have to do it again! I can hear the applause all the way over this way in Wisconsin... More of Dale's pics from the past 62 years. One of the many #99 Dick Trickle Mustangs. #1 Bill Retallick. #87 Bryan Reffner. #44 Neil Callahan Bemco Nova. #36 Joe Shear Thunderbird. #27 Kevin Stepan. #97 Ron Schreiner. Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 701 Indiana Avenue, Stevens Point, WI. 54481 715-344-9072 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES & OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2021 March
Being that we are digging through a bunch of old racing publications, gathering information for the book I am working on, let's just go ahead and turn this column into a “Back on this day” feature. With over 60 years of such news materials, we have plenty to work with! Back on August 28th, 1959, it was RODGER WARD winning the Milwaukee 150 National Championship Late Model stock car race at State Fair Park, Milwaukee, WI., in a 1958 Ford. Following Ward after 150 miles were Fred Lorenzen, Nelson Stacy, Dick Rathmann and Don Oldenberg. Ward earned $2,842.00 for the victory...In 1963, 30 year old Rib Lake, WI., hotshoe, MARLIN WALBECK, between preliminary races and main events captured 155 wins. Walbeck accomplished the feat in his Semi-Late Model Chevrolet... On August 9th, 1964 it was ETCHER BIERTZER winning the 30 lap Feature at Slinger Speedway, Slinger, WI. Following Biertzer's Modified at the finish were Greg Krieger, Bill Johnson, Paul Feldner and Don Schuppel. Roger Regeth won the 15 lap Sportsmen Feature...June 2nd, 1965 found MARV MARZOFKA winning the 25 lap Feature at the Stratford Speedway, Stratford, WI. Following Marzofka in the main were Ken Pancratz, Lyle Nabbefeldt and Marlin Walbeck...On June 26th, 1965, MILES “The Mouse” MELIUS, one of the all time greats in the annals of Modified stock car racing, took the 25 lap Feature win at Hales Corners Speedway, Hales Corners, WI. Following Melius at the finish were Bill Johnson, Pedro Roehl, Greg Krieger and Fred Zack...June 14th, 1966, found KEN PANCRATZ winning the 20 lap Feature for Late Model stocks at the Tomahawk Speedway, Tomahawk, WI. Following Pancratz at the line were Marlin Walbeck, Dick Trickle and Jim Back...June 19th, 1966, found BRUCE CZARNETZKI winning the stock Feature at the Interstate Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI. Squeak Kemp was 2nd with John Wehrenberg, Ralph Bakewell and Gary Maier following. John Scott won the Hobbystock Feature...September 17th, 1966 saw DICK TRICKLE win the 100 lap Feature for Semi-Late Model stock cars at the Griffith Park Speedway, Wis. Rapids, WI. The race was the last for the Central Wisconsin Speedways Association with all four tracks, (Wis. Dells, Black River Falls, Tomah-Sparta, Griffith Park) in the group closed for the season after the event. A record purse of $5,200 was paid out with Trickle earning $285.00. Following Trickle after 100 laps were Dave Field, Everett Fox, Bob Millis and Jere O'Day. The 50 lap Semi-Feature went to John Wehrenberg. 4,000 fans attended the event...Final point standings for the 1966 Central Wisconsin Speedway's Association season, Class A, found DICK TRICKLE #99, first with 5710 points, followed by, Marv Marzofka, #91, 5460, Dave Field, #26, 4960, Jere O'Day, #41, 4080, Lyle Nabbefeldt, #X, 3420, Jim Back, #61, 3280, Marlin Walbeck, #30, 3190, Tom Reffner, #88, 3030, Everett Fox, #19, 2050 and Dave Marcis, #2, 1980. Class B Champion was GARY KNEISLEY, #9, with 2340 points. Class C Champ was DALE WALWORTH, #83 with 840 points...On May 10th, 1968, it was RUDY BANDT winning the 30 lap Feature for Semi-Late Models at Capital Speedway, Oregon, WI. Dick Trickle had fast time around the ¼ mile paved oval at 14:05 seconds. Heat race wins went to Wayne Swartout, Tom Reffner, Ron Beyer and Fritz Bishofberger. Reffner won the Semi-Feature as 70 cars participated...STU NITZKE won the 25 lap Feature in his 1957 Chevy, on the ¼ mile paved track, KK Sports Arena, Kaukauna, WI., May 11th, 1968. Dick Glaser, Bob Schroeder, Willie Shoppenhorst, Bryce Spoehr and Jerry Smith followed...On May 8th, 1968, it was LARRY BAUMEL winning the Semi-Late Model Stock Feature at North La Crosse Speedway, La Crosse, WI. Baumel finished ahead of Dave Marcis, Dick Trickle and Jim Back. John Scott won the Hobbystock race...DICK TRICKLE drove his '67 Ford Fairlane Late Model stock car to his 3rd straight Feature victory, June 22nd, 1968 on the ½ mile KK Sports Arena track. Next in line at the finish were Dave Marcis, driving the same 1966 Chevelle he placed 10th in the NASCAR Carolina 500 in Rockingham, NC., Rich Somers, Jerry Smith, Dave Emmal and Bill Nelson...MERT WILLIAMS won the Late Model Feature, June 16th, 1968, at the Tunis Speedway, Waterloo, Iowa...August 25th, 1968, it was DICK TRICKLE winning the Feature at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI. Dave Field was 2nd followed by Tom Reffner and Larry Baumel. Heat race winners were Trickle, Ed Colby, Don Rodah and Larry Rezin. The 25 lap Semi-Feature went to Dave Marcis, followed by Louie Vetrone. The consolation race was won by Ed “Gunner” Walkush...On a Thursday night, August 22nd, 1968, NEIL SEDERBERG in his Modified stock car beat the Late Model contingent at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI. Sederberg took his 1934 Ford Victoria sedan to the front of the pack in winning the 30 lap Feature event. Following Sederberg at the line were Don Schuppel, Tom Reffner, Dick Trickle and Fuzzy Fassbender. John Brevik won the 20 lap Semi-Feature over Duane Marshall and Dick Severson. The Consolation race winner was Kato Theison. Hobbystock action found Fluff Furo winning the main event... So are you totally board reading this yet? What if there was a MILLION dollars available if you keep reading?..On May 17, 1969, it was BOB IVERSON sweeping the Modified race program at Escanaba Speedway, Escanaba, MI. Iverson set fast time, won his heat race and then captured the 20 lap Feature event...RAMO STOTT took the opening Feature win at the new ½ mile paved Capital Super Speedway, Oregon, WI., here Sunday afternoon, May 25th, 1969. Following Stott at the finish in the 40 lap main event were Joe Shear and Jim Back. 6,000 fans were in attendance for the inaugural event at the Sam Bartus owned and promoted track...BUTCH HARTMAN, in front of 10,000 fans, won the first ever USAC stock car race at the KK Sports Arena, Kaukauna, WI., here June 1st, 1969. Hartman finished ahead of Jack Bowsher, Roger Mc Cluskey, Dick Trickle, Verlin Eaker and Roger Regeth in the 200 lap event...DAN PRZIBOROWSKI won both 25 lap Features at the new Twin City Speedway, Blaine, MN., here Memorial Day night, 1969...On July 6th, 1969, CENTRAL WISCONSIN RACING ASSOCIATION Late Model drivers boycotted promoter Sam Bartus of Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., over inadequate insurance and insufficient safety equipment. A meeting was to be held to resolve the differences, but if that did not occur, CWRA was going to return to race at Griffith Park Speedway, Wis. Rapids, WI., with Howard Johnson promoting events...On the night ASTRONAUTS landed on the moon, July 20th, 1969, DON RODAH won the 30 lap Feature race at Griffith Park Speedway, Wis. Rapids, WI. Dick Severson placed 2nd with Dean Spohn 3rd. Tom Jenson won the 20 lap Semi-Feature...July 12th, 1969, it was JOHN ZIEGLER in a 1964 Ford taking the Feature at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. Lyle Nabbefeldt was 2nd and followed by Jim Back, John Mc Namara and Tom Reffner. Joe Birch won the Hobbystock Feature...The Minnesota State Fair, St. Paul, MN., was set to run 10 days of racing from August 23rd-September 1, 1969, offering $68,000 in prize pay-out...MARV MARZOFKA pocketed $1,250.00 for winning the 150 Lap Feature on September 13th, 1969, at Capital Speedway, Oregon, WI. Following Marzofka at the checkered flag were Tom Reffner, Rich Somers, Dick Trickle, Tom Torbleau and Louie Vetrone. The 40 lap Semi-Feature went to Norm Bartnick...On June 8th, 1973, it was FRED BENDER winning the Feature at Capital Super Speedway, Oregon, WI. Following Bender at the finish was Joe Shear, Tom Reffner, Dave Watson and Jim Back. Dick Hendrickson won the Hobby Stock Feature...MARV MARZOFKA won the 100 lap Feature at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI., June 5th, 1973. Following Marzofka were Dave Watson, Bob Jusola, Joe Shear, Tom Reffner, Jon Chrest, Mike Miller, Rich Somers, Greg Arenson and Don James. Hobbystock Feature winner was Paul Thicke...DAVE WATSON won the 30 lap Feature at Rockford, IL., Speedway, June 9th, 1973. Following Watson at the stripe were Joe Shear, Danny Ballard, Dennis Burgan and Ray Para...ROGER GULDAN won the Feature race at Central State Speedway, Colby, WI., June 6th, 1973. Following Guldan were Tim Lorenz, Hurricane Michlig, Tom Loos and Don Churdimsky...BILL OAS was the Late Model Feature winner at Golden Sands Speedway, August 4th, 1974. Following Oas were Neil Callahan, Jim Bohmsach, Tom Reffner and Dick Trickle. Roy Bohm swept the Hobby Stock field setting fast time, winning the dash and Feature...On July 27th, 1974, it was JERRY ECKHARDT winning the Late Model Feature race at Jefferson Speedway, Jefferson, WI. Following Eckhardt were Dave Watson and Don Leach...M.J. McBRIDE was the main event winner on July 24th, 1974 at Paul's Seymour Speedway. Next in line behind Mc Bride were Roger Paul and J.J. Smith. With the win, Mc Bride collected the $100 bounty to beat Smith...STEVE BURGESS took the 40 lap Late Model Feature on Sunday afternoon, September 21st, 1980, as part of the Old Style Invitational at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI. Following Burgess at the Checkered flag were Alan Kulwicki, Tony Strupp, Ted Musgrave, Tom Jones, John Ziegler, Willie Goedon, Jerry Eckhardt, Wayne Roffers and Steve Moll...TOM JONES on July 26th, 1974 snapped Tom Musgrave's two win streak, taking the 25 lap Feature at Grundy County Speedway, Morris, IL...On July 24th, 1974, TOM NESBITT won the Feature race at Central State Speedway, Colby, WI. Following Nesbitt were Tom Loos, Harold Mueller, Tom Merckel and Bill Herr...JIM BACK scored a clean sweep, taking fast time, winning the Dash, Heat and 25 lap Feature July 26th, 1974, at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. Following Back in the Feature were Bill Oas, and Marv Marzofka. Jim Kendhammer won the Hobbystock Main event...Continuous hassling of the management by drivers and fans, has been given for the closing of River Raceways, Fountain City, WI., here the end of July, 1974. One of the track owners, ELMER DUELLMAN, has announced the track is for sale...BOB BENNETT won the Feature at Leo's Speedway, Oshkosh, WI., here July 23rd, 1974. Following Bennett in the main were, Roger Regeth, Dave Conger, Dan Kuhnz and Jim Luethy...On September 2nd, 1988, it was WAYNE BREITENFELDT winning the 30 lap Late Model Feature as the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., re-opened after nearly 5 years of inactivity. Breitenfeldt was followed by Bryan Reffner, Allen Check, Joe Krzykowski, Steve Carlson and Rich Somers in the main. The 20 lap Semi-Feature went to Chuck Green, while the Sportsman Division winner was Daryl Smithback. Female competitor, Jennie Kind won the Hobbystock Feature race...TED MUSGRAVE was the winner of the Tony Bettenhausen Classic, September 11th, 1988, at Illiana Speedway, Schererville, IN. Following Musgrave after 100 laps were Tom Jones, Larry Schuler, Bobby Dotter, Tony Hertgo and Rich Kleich, Jr...OK, NO MILLION dollars to be had getting to this point reading the Column. But Hey! Maybe next time as we may just have to revisit this, especially since we've barely made our way into the 1980s of my close to 60 years of publications perusing. Here and there...Tracks in this neck of the woods, are getting their schedules out for the 2021 season which is great to see. Although there is still some skepticism, none are stating opening dates will not happen... In the Quotes of the Column department, it's Tom Reffner talking about racing at Rockford Speedway. “I never liked racing at Rockford. You almost had to drive the diamond pattern there and that is not how tracks should be designed to be raced.” Reffner was in position to have won the NSTC there at least 4 times, but never did. Mert Williams, after winning a Feature at the ¼ mile dirt oval, Hawkeye Downs Speedway, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. “ I really don't like to start up front like that, it makes me nervous, so I just go like heck” More of Dale's pics from the past 62 years. A familiar pose. #30 Marlin Walbeck with a checkered flag. #29 Ken Pancratz. Sonny Immerfaul holding the Trophy. 1961 Griffith Park Speedway, Wis. Rapids, WI., first full year of operation. Griffith Park in color. Notables #91 Marv Marzofka, #61 Jim Back, #5 Rich Somers, #11 Morrie Piotrowski, #3 Ron Beyer. 1972 #91 Marv Marzofka racing in Kaukauna. #99 Dick Trickle at his Pepper Avenue, Wis. Rapids, WI., shop. Wow! It's Jim Back! #0 Bill Wirtz, #61 Jim Back and Tom Reffner mix it up at the Golden Sands Speedway. A gaggle of cars at Golden Sands Speedway. #31 Glen Hansen, #50, Terry Semrow or Mike Schleep, #67 Butch Steinback, #44 Del Kemnetz identifiable cars. #93 The Patriotic John Ziegler. #1 Bob Bennett. #11 Larry Baumel. #56 Fred Bender. One of those crazy racers out of greater Janesville, WI., area, #81 Steve Arndt. #25 Bill Oas. #85 Dan Prziborowski. #12 Steve Burgess. Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 701 Indiana Avenue, Stevens Point, WI. 54481 715-344-9072 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES & OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
February 2021
I threatened to do it before, and now the time has finally come to calculate how many hours, how many days, maybe how many years, this race chaser has spent at a racetrack! I knew it would be pretty scary, and as we go here, it might even show I've been at the track more than I've slept. Or, it may show I've spent more time there than the time I was eating! Or, or, or... Looking at when I actually began attending races, it goes back to the early 1960s. Born in 1957, I obviously don't have recollection of that time period, but I do know my Mother, who would accompany my race fan Dad to races, was holding me at some events, including at the Griffith Park Speedway of Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Griffith opened in 1960, so I was probably there as a crying, whining, 3 year old. My Mother claims the sound of the cars freaked me out, but it must have been temporary as obviously, all these years later, I've learned to like it! If you take the 2,251 race events I have attended, divide that by the 62 years of attendance, you get an average of 36.31/year. That average would be substantially higher, if not for 1958-1968, and 2011-2020 being quite lean. Of course looking at 1958-1968 I was only 1-11 years old, so for the most part it, was difficult to get to the shows. As for 2011-2020, now at 63 years of age, the spectrum tilts, it's tougher to get to the shows because of old age and laziness.! Now, if we take 2251 events with an average of say, 4 hours at each event, we are at 9004 hours. Divide that by the 24 hours that are in a day and you have 375 days spent at a racetrack. Think about that; Sitting on wood splintered planks for over a year and liking it! Certainly glad it wasn't a year or so, all at once, as even with experiencing immense pleasure, one needs a break at least now and then. So now, if we take 2251 days with at least a portion of it spent at the racetrack, we are looking at 6.2 dedicated to racing years. These numbers do not include going to and from events, or working on cars prior to racing, working for racing series', sanctioning groups, pr for tracks, or just plain reading, watching on TV, or thinking about the sport. For sure this would add on at least another several years to the totals. But really, what else would I have done with my time? Lots of things! In reality, it was time well spent. If you take into effect the enjoyment factor, I can't think of anything else that compares. There were many highlights through the 62 years, a couple that stand out, were Tom Reffner, my child hood hero, who I met through my Dad working with him, winning 67 Feature races in 1975, and my getting a chance to race a Late Model stock car, a goal I had from my earliest days of viewing the sport in 1977. Running my own racing events/series are in there too, so really, more fun then you could ever ask for! They say racing gets in your blood. It's an addiction. But there definitely are much worse addictions out there, than the racing bug. Thinking about all this, it hasn't been a bad way to go! Here and there...2021 is here, where should we start adding to the race attendance total...Looks like we have seen races in 28 States and Canada, at 274 different venues. High water mark was 91, in 1985, (I was shooting for 100, but the wettest August ever put the kibosh on that) with the least being 18 this past year. No wonder I am whipped and needed to retire...1st race car I touched, while in my Mothers arms, which got me wailing, was a John McNamara racer, B's Coupe... Looking back in time, on Saturday night, July 7th, 1962, at Black River Falls Speedway, Black River Falls, WI., it was Marlin Walbeck winning the Feature race, over Dave Froggatt, Dean Spohn, and Everett Fox. Saturday and Sunday, April 23rd, 24th, 1966, at Griffith Park Speedway, Wis. Rapids, WI., it was Dick Trickle and Lyle Nabbefeldt winning the Feature races over the two days. In the Saturday Feature, Trickle was followed by Rich Somers, Marv Marzofka, Dave Marcis and Lyle Nabbefeldt. The Sunday main had Nabbefeldt first, followed by Jim Back, Ron Beyer, Tom Reffner and Trickle. On Sunday night, August 20th, 1967, at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., it was Dave Field winning the Feature race followed by Dick Trickle and Marv Marzofka. On Sunday, May 25th, 1975, it was Tom Reffner winning both 50 lap Features at Golden Sands Speedway. In the first, Reffner was followed by Larry Detjens, Neil Callahan, Jim Back and Jim Bohmsach. The 2nd 50 found Detjens, Marv Marzofka, Callahan and Back trailing. In 1986, it was Kevin Cywinski winning the CWRA season Championship. In 1999, it was Gary Back winning the CWRA season Championship. On September 8th, 2006, it was Steve Carlson winning the 100 lap Feature at Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI. On September 26th, 2015, at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., it was Mark Eswein winning the Jim Back Memorial race. Eswein was followed by Dennis Prunty, Tim Schendel, Alex Prunty and Dan Lensing. On Sunday, October 11th, 2020, it was Colin Reffner winning the 25 lap, CWRA Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., as part of the Annual Oktoberfest weekend of racing. Dale's pics from the past 62 years. First track I remember getting to, Griffith Park Speedway, 1960s, #6 Dave Barnsdale, Stevens Point, WI., racer ran there. The first true Wisconsin superstar, #30 Marlin Walbeck. Early Dirt and Griffith hotshoe, #74 Jere O'Day. #99 early, early, early Dick Trickle. #37 John McNamara B's Coupe. #8, Les Katzner, #15 Rich Somers and #76 Roy Schmidtke tangle at Golden Sands Speedway, 1970ish. #88 Tom Reffner AMC Javelin record year. It was tough getting Golden Sands Speedway re-opened, but 1989 brought the first full year of racing back to the track and who did we get to show up? None other than Dick Trickle #99 for the paltry sum of $3,000! #31 Bobby Turzinski, perennial 1990s winner. #7 Don "Thunder" Turner representing racing from the late 1960s to the present. Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 701 Indiana Avenue, Stevens Point, WI. 54481 715-344-9072 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2020 December
In following Dan Plan’s strict orders, we will do our best to cover this past year of racing.
Unfortunately, it rates as one of the worst in terms of total events attended, as we only made 18 race programs this past season. That’s the least amount for this old timer since he was probably 10 years old!
The season did start out quite nicely however, as we were able to get to sunny Florida for some Speedweeks action as well as other entertainment. Hardly recognized the refurbished Volusia County Speedway, out of Barberville, FL., as vast improvements have been made to that place. Racing was extremely fast and watching Late Models, Sprint cars and Modifieds made for some great fun. Actually, sat far enough away from the action so that the mud clods didn’t hit me!
With travels limited due to the whole Covid 19 fiasco, we only caught racing action at 5 different tracks this year in two states. Not complaining, as when one of the States is Wisconsin, you know you are going to see some great racing. Spending most of our summer handling CWRA duties, there was no shortage of great, competitive racing either.
Besides Volusia County Speedway, we were witness to racing action at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., and La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI. The season officially ended for this scribe, at State Park Speedway for the Matt Rowe, Impact Survival Series, Creepy Classic. It’s the end of the year, but we always look forward to this event, as where can you see 100 cars or better do battle on a tiny ¼ mile race track! This year, it was more of the same, wild, crazy action, and in the end, it was Brady Rivest taking the 300 lap win. Rivest actually came close to dominating the action, leading for the bulk of the race. The penalty you pay however for being fast and winning, is losing your car, which is per ISS rules. It usually doesn’t cost that much to go out and get another one and that’s what most racers running this deal do. And really, that’s the beauty of this, as you can make some money, or at least not lose so much, and have fun doing it. Sounds a lot like CWRA racing now that I think of it.
So, looking at travel miles for racing this year, quite minimal compared to years past. Probably somewhere around 2,000 and with Florida round trip added in, a bit over 4,000. Hopefully the Covid 19 issue puts us all in better shape in 2021, and the way it looks right now that should mean a good dose of CWRA action, let’s say 6-10 races at, at least several different race tracks, added value with some dirt shows, both in Wisconsin and surrounding States, and who knows, maybe even a National in scope event somewhere. And, potentially adding to the fun, will be another Winter escape to Florida. We will just see about all of that1
Here and there…Not one to spend a tremendous amount of time or money eating at race tracks, but we might as well throw that in as a category for Dan Plan’s 2020 racing recap. Best food we had for certain was during Oktoberfest, where you just can’t beat the Butterfly Pork Chops. We partook in those more than once during the weekend and will definitely do the same next year…
Looking back in time, on February, 19, 1981, at East Bay Raceway of Gibsonton, FL., it was Kenny Brightbill winning the 25 lap Feature race over Bob Wearing, Charlie Swartz, Ed Sanger, and Will Cagle…On February, 21, 1981, it was Charlie Swartz winning the 50 lap Feature at East Bay Raceway over Larry Moore, Kenny Brightbill, Will Cagle and Tom Nesbitt…Looking back on February 22nd, 1981 at Desoto Memorial Speedway, Bradenton, FL., it was Dickie Anderson winning the 100 lap Feature. Following Anderson was Leroy Porter, Dick Trickle, Ray Bontrager and Butch Miller.
In the quote(s) of the column, going back to 1981, “I was hoping he’d mess up, but he never did so I couldn’t pass him.” Bob Wearing on being unable to pass Kenny Brightbill in the 25 lapper at East Bay Raceway. “When I was running Sprint cars, I hardly had enough money for a pit pass. Racing Late Models, I’ve had my best year!” Charlie Swartz commenting on his year after winning the Feature at East Bay Raceway. Tried to use my Press pass for several newspapers to cover racing at East Bay back in 1981, but promoter Jimmy Mingo wasn’t having it. Says Jimmy, “You pay now and send me your article and I’ll refund your money’ Never did see that money, and I wrote a great article!
Dale's pics from the past. #19 Kenny Brightbill wins in Florida, 1981. Dickie Anderson wins at Desoto Memorial in 1981. Different spare parts to carry for enduro racing. Fun and not as much fun racing ISS.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 701 Indiana Avenue, Stevens Point, WI. 54481 715-344-9072 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2020 NOVEMBER
You couldn't ask for a better 4 days of racing, both competition and weather-wise as the 51st Annual Oktoberfest Racing Weekend unfolded here October 8-11, 2020, at LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI. Great fields of cars in all Divisions of racing, along with daytime temps in the 70s made it an event to remember.
I can't recall larger crowds over a 4 day span of 'Fest either. I think in general, people are just fed up with all the restriction and decided, "We are going racing!"
And race they did, as Ty Majeski capped off the weekend with his 3rd Oktoberfest final win. Things actually got started on Thursday with the weekly NASCAR Late Model Champion being determined at the track. And no, it wasn't Steve Carlson or Nick Panitzke. Nick Murgic pulled through to take the Championship as he out pointed Carlson and Billy Mohn for the title. Carlson and Panitzke did however have a say in the outcome as they captured NASCAR LM Features over the weekend. Panitzke taking 20 lap wins on both Thursday and Friday, while Carlson also took a win on Friday. Nick Clements who had a stellar season at Lax. took the other 20 lap NASCAR main of the 4 held.
The closest race ever for the Dick Trickle named race on Friday of 'Fest, saw no less than 6 drivers having a shot at the overall Crown in the triple 33 Feature race format. Winners of each race were Andrew Morrissey, Chad Butz, and Casey Johnson, but it was Dan Fredrickson being the most consistent, and taking the 2020 Trickle, 99, 'Fest Title. Was nice to see upstart, Chad Butz take a main event win, as he is a CWRA Stars to Legends Tour graduate. Butz has improved with each racing step he has taken, and a win at 'Fest is certainly a feather in ones cap.
With 17 Divisions of racing over the four days, it's tough to pick out the highlight of the weekend, as close competition was the norm rather than exception in all the races. Certainly for this scribe, the Central Wisconsin Racing Association return to 'Fest racing was right up there. However I am totally biased, but the 25 lap Feature for the group on Sunday afternoon was second to none. Colin Reffner took the big win, but he had all he could handle with Tony Leis on his bumper at the finish. Greg Back in his first appearance for the group in 2020 led many laps, but a turn one slip up allowed Reffner and Leis to motor by for the top two spots. Back held onto 3rd, with John Beale and Darren Jackson close behind. Beale, with his finish became the 2020 CWRA, Cedar Creek Rustic Village, as presented by Bentley Trucking, Stars to Legends Tour Champion. Beale and two time defending Champion Jeff Weinfurter had just 10 points separating them heading into the final, but an early spin by Weinfurter put the season Crown in Beale's hands. With the success of the event, plans are underway for next year, and it looks like CWRA will again appear twice for events at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway.
And, even with Covid 19 concerns with the older set, Champions Reunion XII as part of 'Fest, went off without a hitch. A great group of 50 Championship drivers were on hand for the show and all were glad to be out on the day! Fun with drivers, cool old time race cars and displays, made for a memorable experience for all.
Here and there...Have to thank Don's Auto and Truck Center, Don Fowler proprietor, for stepping up with Title sponsorship of the CWRA race on Sunday of 'Fest. Don's contribution increased the purse pay-out as did support from John J. Mayer Insurance. The help is greatly appreciated and that kind of support will lead to continued success in 2021...One thing is certain when Johnny Sauter is on the track, there will be a point in the race for discussion! That was the case here in the ARCA Midwest Tour, 200 lap Oktoberfest finale, as he and Andrew Morrissey were racing for the lead when contact was made. That put both in the rear for the restart, and with only 30 laps or so left, negated any chance either one of them had to win, although Morrissey did fly through the field to get 3rd, with Sauter placing 9th. Fans do like excitement however, and with Johnny you always get it!
In the quote of the column department, Tony Leis with plans to race with CWRA in 2021. "I think your concept is fantastic, I loved the competition you had at La Crosse in July and I loved racing at 'Fest. Thanks again for making racing enjoyable again!"
Going back in time, in, on July 11th, 1991, Bryan Reffner won the 2nd 25 lap Feature in the Larry Detjens Memorial race. Following Reffner was, Bobby Stolze, Terry Marzofka, Don Woller, Bobby Weiss and Kirby Kurth. Going back to the year 1978, Dave Watson was the Oktoberfest Champion at LaCrosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. On May 30th, 1987, it was the Lyle Nabbefeldt Memorial race at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., with Tom Musgrave and Dick Trickle winning the two 55 lap Features honoring the popular racer. Following Musgrave in the first main was Steve Holzhausen, Steve Carlson, Bob Gunn and Trickle. The 2nd main finish behind Trickle was Carlson, Rich Bickle, Jr., Gunn, Tom Reffner and Musgrave. The Semi-main went to Brian Holzhausen. On August 30th, 1986, at Wis. Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI., it was Steve Holzhausen winning the 86 lap Feature race. Holzhausen was followed to the checkered flag by Dave Watson, Kevin Cywinski, Rich Bickle, Jr., Rick Wateski and Dick Trickle. Heat race winners were Don Stetzer, Spike Lindley, Marty Georgeson and Tom Reffner. Consy winner was John McNamara with Brian Holzhausen winning the Semi-Feature. Trickle set fast time on the night. On the dirt side of things, Midget race car action, on July 19th, 1986, at Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, WI., it was Kevin Olson winning the 50 lap Feature. Following Olson was Paul Clark and Chris Maxin.
Dale's pics from the past. #37 Dave Watson. #78 Steve Holzhausen in Ford products. #94 Early Bob Gunn Mustang. #50 Steve Carlson. #37 John McNamara Comet. #93 Rick Wateski popular green colored race cars. #787 Brian "Barney" Holzhausen. #A3 John Reimer who recently passed away. #17 Tom Musgrave. Bryan Reffner #87. #99 Dick Trickle. All Rodney Dykeman photos. #9 Matt McGlaughlin Edsel race car. Amazingly, this car has raced on the Milwaukee Mile, Elkhart Lake, Watkins Glen among other high profile venues. John Beale 2020 CWRA Stars to Legends Tour Champion. Dale P. Danielski Pics.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 701 Indiana Avenue, Stevens Point, WI. 54481 715-344-9072 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2020 October
We are getting near the end...Of the racing season that is. Of course that can only mean one thing, the Annual Oktoberfest Racing weekend, October, 8-11, 2020.
The 51st running of the Classic will again feature about a million race cars competing in 17 or so Divisions of Racing. The weekend culminates in the 200 lap, ARCA Midwest Tour finale on Sunday afternoon. Can Ty Majeski win it again? Will Johnny Sauter keep a cool head and challenge for the win? Will perennial front runner, Dan Fredrickson win for the 5th time? We'll all get to find out the second week of October at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI.
Of course this writer will be paying close attention to the CWRA race that will be held Sunday of 'Fest as well. The group is back for the first time in close to 30 years and will race in a 25 lap Feature race to determine the 2020 Tour Champion. With John Beale holding a slim lead of 10 points over Jeff Weinfurter it will be interesting to see how things shake out. Noticed in the 'Fest guide booklet from the track that the CWRA Qualifying record is 19:537 seconds by Dick Trickle around the big 5/8 mile oval. Don't think there is much chance that will be broken with CWRA currently racing on the hard compound, Towel City Racing tire.
Everyone is saying since the season got off to such a rough start with a certain Virus floating around, this will be the year of near perfect weather for racing. Let's hope so, and furthermore hope things settle down and 2021 is bigger and way better!
Speaking of better, at the tracks and events we visited this year, once things got rolling, attendance was good. Better even then 2019 in most cases. Can probably attribute that to folks needing to get out of the house and at least do something! Cabin Fever at its worst never bit as hard as Covid did in 2020.
Of course with 'Fest, comes Champion Reunion XII. This year as/per usual the event will be held on Sunday, October 11th, from 11am-2pm. A great line up of cars and championship drivers have already indicated they will be on hand during the day. Matt McGlaughlin will be bringing a car from his collection, as will Ken Christenson, Jr. Doug Rogers is bringing a car that looks identical to the one Dick Trickle raced during the 1966 racing season. Mike Wall again will present the famous Chicken Coupe, while John "Rags" Reget has the Trickle Mustang to display. Kirby Kurth will also be in attendance and just for the fun of it is bringing the car Trickle last drove at Oktoberfest in 2007. Paul Dolphy has a Trickle Torino look a like racer that he'll have on display. With a great group of old time racers coming, maybe they'll suit up and a race could break out! The show is still open to Championship drivers from any series, and Tour, any Division, or a Oktoberfest Feature winner if they are interested in attending. Can't have raced the last three years is only stipulation, so come on over! You can also respond on the Champions Reunion XII Facebook page.
Here and there...Sad to hear of the passing of racer, Larry Sparks. Larry raced for a number of years, mostly in the Central Wisconsin area. Back when there was a hell of a competitive group of Semi-Feature racers, Larry was at the top of the list. One season he told me he won like 20 Semi's in a row or something like that at various tracks on the circuit. That's impressive, I don't care what you are racing! With the #43 on his race cars, Larry will be missed...Long time racer on both dirt and asphalt, Bob Zynda also passed away here recently. Bob rarely missed my Reunions held through the years, and there will definitely be a hole where he'd be sitting this year...Ed Nichols was another Reunion regular. Ed passed away last Fall and it will be very different not talking to him this year. RIP #6!...Don's Truck and Auto, Tomah, WI., will be the title sponsor for the CWRA race on Sunday of 'Fest. You'll enjoy the photo of Don in his racing days elsewhere in this issue... John J. Mayer Insurance will also be backing the CWRA race on Sunday afternoon of 'Fest...Good to see reasonably new to the Super Late Model ranks drivers Mike Sievers and Dakota Blakeslee pick up preliminary race wins here recently. A good sign for the two who again will be racing on the CWRA Tour in 2021...Also good to see interest from tracks heading into the 2021 season for CWRA. Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells. WI., Jerry Auby, promoter, State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., the Wimmer family in charge, La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., Chuck Deery Manager, all indicating they are committed to the group for events next year. The Norway Speedway, Norway, Michigan, will also be in the fold for CWRA racing next year. Contact is still to be made with other Speedways that are likely to host events in 2021 as well...
Going back in time, on August 12th, 1972 it was Larry Anderson winning the last Feature of the 1972 season at North La Crosse Speedway, La Crosse, WI., Following Anderson at the finish were Al Kroes, Don Turner, Ralph Bakewell and Dale Pennel. The heat race was won by Turner with fast time honors going to Pete Mahlum at 14.47 seconds. The Hobbystock Feature went to Tim Carlson. As it turns out, the track did not reopen in 1973 or thereafter, so Anderson won the last ever Late Model Feature at the 1/4 mile track. On the first night of Oktoberfest 1975, it was Bob Lee winning the Hobbystock Feature. Lee was followed to the checkered by Steve Heinz, Rich Martin, Bob Tippery and Dick Goldsmith. On 10/8/2000 it was Kevin Nuttleman winning the NASCAR 50 on the last day of Oktoberfest at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI. Following Nuttleman at the finish were Steve Holzhausen, Steve Carlson, Dan Fredrickson and Mike Belling.
Dale's pics from the past. #7, Bob Zynda. Yellow was Bob's color of choice in his racing days. Rodney Dykeman photo. The #43 Chevelle of Larry Sparks. Dykeman photo. Don Fowler in the Racing #8. Rodney Dykeman. #2 Lowell Bennett in one of the many race cars sponsored by John J. Mayer Insurance. Rodney Dykeman.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 701 Indiana Avenue, Stevens Point, WI. 54481 715-344-9072 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2020 September
Been spending a fair amount of time catching the action at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., and that is not a bad thing.
July 18th found us at the big 5/8 mile paved oval and in tonight's NASCAR main event it was Matt Henderson and Mike Carlson taking the 20 lap Feature wins. It didn't take Henderson long to move into the top spot and from there on in nobody could catch him. Nick Clements, Steve Bachman, Michael Haller and Nick Murgic followed the popular driver to the checkers. Carlson found himself in a similar situation in race two, getting out front early and leading the pack home. Jerimy Wagner, racing after a long absence, Brent Kirchner, Nick Murgic and Bryan Wrolstad were next at the finish. Of course the track was running a number of double Features to the end of the season to make up for the delayed 2020 start. To qualify for National NASCAR points and all the goodies that go with it, a certain number of Features must be run and this way the track gets in the thick of the battle.
Same place, different time as it was another visit to Lax. Fairgrounds on August 1st. With barely a cloud in the sky, it was certainly not a night you expected any rain. Unfortunately, a couple local radio stations got their programming messed up and announced the races were cancelled! In mentioning what I heard to the track, the parties were contacted and another announcement was made of course stating, the races were very much on. Still, how many potential new fans to racing intended to go, heard that and decided not to? Very harmful to say the least. As it turns out, it was the Trailer Race of Destruction night and a big crowd did show up nonetheless. 22 NASCAR Late Models took to the track for the 25 lap Feature run on this night and it was Minnesota racer Jacob Goede taking the win with a last lap pass of Nick Murgic. Following the lead duo were Nick Clements, Billy Mohn and Steve Bachman.
It was another two NASCAR main event program at Lax Fairgrounds on 8/8 and this time it was veteran racer, Brent Kirchner picking up the win in 20 lapper number one. Jeff Partington in one of his best runs at the track, finished a close 2nd and was followed by Billy Mohn, Brad Powell, back after a long lay-off, and Steve Carlson. Nick Murgic, who finds himself in great position to win the season Championship, picked off the win in the 2nd 20 lap Feature. Carlson, Powell, Mike Carlson and Nick Clements followed.
Unbelievably, the summer portion of the regular season for NASCAR Late Model racing, came to an end on August 15th at Lax., although two points shows at Oktoberfest will be run to determine the 2020 track Champion. Brent Kirchner grabbed another main event win on this night, taking the first 20 lap race. He was followed by Devin Schmidt, Nick Clements, Nick Murgic and Billy, remember that name, Mohn. Speaking of Mohn, he won the 2nd 20 lap Feature after coming oh so close during the year. Mohn is another of a large contingent of Minnesota drivers making the trip on a regular basis to La Crosse. With Elko, MN., Speedway finally opening, a few stayed closer to their Minnesota home to race on this night. But not Billy Mohn, who outpaced Steve Carlson, Nick Murgic, Nick Clements and Justin Mullikin for the win.
So with that, the next racing to take place for these cars will be at the Annual Oktoberfest racing weekend, October 8-11th, 2020. At Least 17 Divisions of racing are set for the weekend, including for the 1st time in as long as anyone can remember, the Central Wisconsin Racing Association Super Late Models. CWRA will be racing in one 25 lap Feature on Sunday of 'Fest, which will also serve as the Stars to Legends Tour/season Championship for the group. A large field is expected to race in the event and it will be great to see them in action as part of 'Fest 2020!
Here and there...Devin Schmidt made his late season debut in NASCAR Late Models at La Crosse in a new Kyle "Rowdy" Busch car. He ran well and expect big things from this Minnesota racer...Champions Reunion XII, will again take place at Oktoberfest. The event is set for Sunday, October 11th, from 11am-2pm in the Hospitality Chalet in turn one of the main grandstand. Many racers, and promoters for that matter, from the grand 'ole days of racing will be in attendance and you the race fan, if you have a Sunday 'Fest ticket, can get up there and rub shoulders with them for FREE! Always a great time, with numerous old race cars, photo displays and memorabilia on hand to enjoy...
Looking back in time, on Friday night, August 28th, 1970, it was Jim Back winning the 25 lap Feature race at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. Following Back at the finish was Tom Reffner and Jim Sauter. Semi-Feature action found John Brevik taking the win over Buck Linhart and Ralph Bakewell. Heat race winners were Curt Iverson, Dale Walworth and Reffner. Reffner also won the Dash with Back setting fast time at 20:83 seconds which was a track record. Looking at the first ever Oktoberfest 200 run at the track in 1970, a 33 car field started the 200 with 17 cars finishing. The race was held on Sunday, October 4th, 1970 and a crowd of 4,000 attended. The complete feature finish: 1. Tom Reffner, 2. Rich Somers, 3. John McNamara, 4. Bill Mueller, 5. Dennis Sobkowiak, 6. Kato Theisen, 7. Buck Linhart, 8. John Scott, 9. Everet Fox, 10. Harold Mueller, 11. Bill Schorer, 12. Ed Nichols, 13. Larry Anderson, 14. Roy Schmidtke, 15. Larry Sparks, 16. Marv Marzofka, 17. C. John Brinkman, 18. Pete Mahlum, 19. Bob Agena, 20. George Thornton, 21. Benny Olson, 22. Mike Murgic, 23. Ron Beyer, 24. Roy Gau, 25. Louie Vetrone, 26. Jim Back, 27. Jim Sauter, 28. Larry Detjens, 29. Bill Wirtz. 30. Darrell Busch, 31. Homer Spink, 32. Del Triesch, 33. Jack Brambilia.
Dale's pics from the past. #61 A Jim Back creation. #60 Ralph Bakewell Javelin. #7 Don "Thunder Turner" who has never missed an Oktoberfest race. #1 Tom Nesbitt doing a little pavement racing. #96, Superb dirt driver, Mert Williams won a pavement Feature with this car on May 12th, 1972, at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. All photos by Rodney Dykeman.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 701 Indiana Avenue, Stevens Point, WI. 54481 715-344-9072 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
2020 August
With all the historical writing I do, it's only fitting that I would fill you in on a retro racing event held here recently, as CWRA returned to the La Crosse Fairgrounds after an over 25 year hiatus.
The Fair race at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI., was a popular event throughout the years. Starting back in 1957 when a dirt track was carved out of the landscape there, and later when Larry Wehrs and others had the track paved for high speed auto racing. The Central Wisconsin Racing Association was an integral part of racing at the track for many years. Wednesday night was the designated night for racing there, (Probably because it was the only night available to host CWRA) and racing was great featuring drivers, Dick Trickle, Marv Marzofka, Rich Somers, Mike Miller, Tom Reffner, Larry Detjens, Joe Shear, Jim Back, Dave Watson, Bob Jusola, Larry Behrens, and so many others. Move ahead to 2020, and you have CWRA returning on Wednesday night, July 15th to the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, for a race during Fair week. Unfortunately, the Covid 19 situation put the kibosh on the Fair, but it was decided the race event would go on.
What great racing it did indeed provide. As it turns out, it was quite the challenge for drivers, a CWRA vs NASCAR match-up, as a number of the Saturday night group went head to head with the CWRA Tour racers to see who was the best of the best. Adding incentive was the fact the race was the Larry Wehrs Tribute race, with Larry on hand and extra purse money paid out. A strong field of 21 cars turned out for the race and close racing, and last lap heroics were the order of the evening.
CWRA utilizes a twin Feature format for their events and the unpredictability of who will win on any given night makes the Tour attractive to drivers and fans alike. It was no different on this night, as Steve Carlson took the first 30 lap event, while Jesse Pokszyk won the 2nd. There was plenty of action in between as Carlson had to fend off a late race charge by Colin Reffner who came up a few feet short of winning at the finish line. Not to be outdone, Pokszyk used a last lap pass of Nick Clements to win in his Feature event. Reffner didn't win either race, but his 2nd and 3rd place finishes made him the Inaugural Larry Wehrs Tribute Race winner and with it a $500.00 cash bonus from Ultra Force Loading Machines, by Wehrs. Also of note was the event bringing out 1991 CWRA Champion, Mark Lamoreaux to race. The 69 year old driver didn't disappoint either, as he led a number of laps in the first 30 lapper, ultimately finishing a close 3rd in the end.
Truly a special night of racing, bringing back memories of what was both a weekly Wednesday night racing occurrence and an Annual event with the Fair. Wehrs Machine and Racing Products, Bangor, WI., along with Bentley Trucking, Des Moines, Iowa, and Iron River, MI., made it happen this year, hopefully it can be brought back in 2021 only with the Fair actually going on this time!
Here and there...The first Clason Buick-GMC, 30 lap Feature on July 15th, Larry Wehrs Tribute night at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, found Steve Carlson the winner, over Colin Reffner, Mark Lamoreaux, Matt Henderson, Darren Jackson, Paul Paine, John Beale, Jeff Weinfurter, Jesse Pokszyk and Carter Christenson. Clason 30 lapper number two found Pokszyk 1st followed by Nick Clements, Reffner, Henderson, Paine, Harley Jankowski, Christenson, Weinfurter, Beale, and Dave Satorius. Reffner had a good night financially as he was also the Bentley Trucking Fast Qualifier. That earned the 3rd generation Reffner racer a cool $100 cash from Bentley...It was an epic battle in the first 30 lap race between Carlson and Reffner, and Steve was thankful for how Colin raced him. "My car was getting so tight, he could have got into me a number of times, but he didn't. I like racing with him, he's a good driver."...Matt Henderson who got off to a terrible start to his season decided to bring his other race car out to the CWRA race and see how he'd do. "We just wanted to come out and see what we could do. The way things have gone this year, we just wanted to have some fun, and we did!" Henderson had a strong car all night and was rewarded with two 4th place finishes in the 30 Lap mains...Another great event honoring a former CWRA racer, was the John Brevik Classic at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., Saturday night, July 11th. CWRA brought 21 cars to the event and some super racing was seen by the huge crowd on hand. 30 Lap Feature winners on the night included Jeff Weinfurter and Colin Reffner. Remember seeing John Brevik racing many times through the years. Always competitive, John brought a lot of positives to the sport...
Looking back in time, at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, on July 17th, 1970 it was the Fair 100 race. Tom Reffner took the Feature win, and was followed by, Dick Trickle, Jim Back, Marv Marzofka, and Roy Schmidtke. Dale Pennel won the Consolation and 1st heat race, with John Brevik taking the 2nd and Back the 3rd. Fast time went to Marv Marzofka. A crowd of 5,200 attended the event. On Wednesday night, July 21st, 1971 it was the Fair Opener 50 at La Crosse Interstate Speedway. Marv Marzofka won the 50 Lap Feature in front of Rich Somers and Jim Sauter. The 15 Lap Semi-Feature went to Greg Delapp, while heat race victors were Fred Beckler, Warren Droesser, and Larry Behrens. Behrens also won the fast dash.
Dale's pics from the past. Marv Marzofka #91 Ford Torino. Tom Reffner Mercury Cyclone. Overall, $500.00 Bonus, from Ultra Force Loading Machines, by Wehrs, Larry Wehrs Tribute Race winner, Colin Reffner #87.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 701 Indiana Avenue, Stevens Point, WI. 54481 715-344-9072 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2020 July
Nothing feels anywhere near right at this point in time, but some racing has been witnessed and that is certainly a good thing. A starting point at least should we say?
It was off to Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., for the Annual Lyle Nabbefeldt Memorial race, Saturday, May 30th, and a great field of CWRA Super Late Models were on hand to do battle. When the smoke had cleared, it was prolific winner at the Dells track, Jesse Bernhagen in victory lane, in Feature number one, while Harley Jankowski, in a photo finish, captured Feature event number 2. A stout field of 20 Super Lates were on hand to do battle and racing was competitive and close as is usually the case in CWRA competition.
Always great to be a part of the Nabbefeldt racing tradition and numerous family members were on hand to enjoy the action, along with the Chicken Coupe car that Nabbefeldt made famous racing.
And, getting to another race event, (Can you believe it!) we were off to State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., Thursday night, June 4th for more CWRA action. A twin Feature format as is customary for CWRA, greeted the large crowd in attendance for the race. Travis Volm who always runs well at this track was victorious in one of the Features while John Beale took the other. Ultra competitor racing with the CWRA group as usual and more of the same was expected for a June 25th event there.
But before that, it was an 18 car field at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., Saturday night, June 13th for more CWRA racing. John Beale, who is leading the CWRA Tour points, didn't hurt his cause one bit as he captured one of the two Main events held on the night. Mark Mackesy took the other as he continues to keep the pressure on Beale in pursuit of the Season Championship.
Mackesy further helped his cause by winning a CWRA main at State Park Speedway Thursday night, June 25th. Looks like it's going to be a back and forth affair with the two, with half the season yet to go. Paul Paine, the Minnesota traveler has been searching for that first CWRA Tour win for over 20 races now, and voila, it finally happened at the Wausau track. Paine was victorious in a 35 lap Feature outpacing Beale and defending Tour Champion, Jeff Weinfurter. Getting that first win has also put Paine in the Title picture with numerous events yet to contest. As competitive as the Tour is, it will be interesting to see how things shake out. Heading to larger tracks from here on in, who will have the advantage? The Marshfield 1/2 mile will be the next test, with the John Brevik Memorial being held 7/11/20. Brevik who was a CWRA regular for many years, passed away earlier this year and will be honored at the race. Interesting of note, how the race day falls on 7-11, which is the car number Brevik used in competition. After that event it's another large track venue, as La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway will host the CWRA group on July 15th. It will be a Wednesday night race, just like the old days, when CWRA was part of the weekly racing schedule. The appearance by CWRA at the track will be the first in many moons for the group. Added attraction will be the race honoring long time promoter, Larry Wehrs. Larry was behind many promotional efforts that included CWRA and it will be great having him out to the speedway on this night.
Here and there...Unfortunately, a blown Dakota Blakeslee engine resulted in an 8 car pile up in the 2nd CWRA main at State Park Speedway here June 25th. That eliminated 6 cars once the race got going, but the show did go on and was still reasonably competitive. Except... for Mark Mackesy racing away from the field for the win...For Mackesy, the win moved him into 2nd on the all-time Feature win list at the track, as he passed legend Tom Reffner for that spot...Reffner scaled Mackesy's car after the race, which he does for CWRA, and it came up......legal! Brett Breitenfeldt was involved in a skirmish in the first feature at State Park June 25th, which damaged his radiator. Undaunted, he made preparations to get ready for the 2nd Feature. That included putting Pepper into the radiator to stop a leak. Yes, this does actually work, but unfortunately for Breitenfeldt the fix was short lived and he only made a few laps in the race...I've heard of it being used indoors, on concrete, but wasn't aware that tracks are utilizing this tactic on asphalt tracks to provide more grip. We're talking about applying pop syrup, in this case Coke, onto the racing surface. Ron Wimmer applied some to his Wausau track for the June 25th CWRA race. In speaking with racers after the show, they claim it does make a difference, and once they figure out where it is on the track, get their outside tires in it for that extra grip...Great crowd on hand for CWRA racing, June 25th. Perhaps biggest we've seen for such an event, thus far...Quite the buzz going on for the July 15th CWRA race at La Crosse. Looks like a strong contingent of La X area racers plan to run that event and see how they fare against the CWRA group. It will be a challenge to say the least, and that can only mean a great show for the fans...
Looking back in time, at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., July 9th, 1961, it was Herbie Kurth winning the 25 lap Feature race. Following Kurth at the Checkered flag was, Morrie Piotrowski, Marlin Walbeck and Vic Kopacz. The 20 lap Semi-Feature went to Larry Drake. heat race winners were Drake, Jerry Wagner and Walbeck. Walbeck also won the Dash race. On July 5th, 1965 at State Park Speedway, it was Dave Marcis winning the 30 lap Feature on Mid-season Championship night. Following Marcis was John McFaul, Bob Dalsky, Jr. Marzofka and Hiliarian Michlig. Semi-Feature honors went to Don Budleski. Heat race winners were Don Schmidt, Bill Bembinster, Dalsky and Jim Ryan. The 5 lap Dash went to McFaul, with Marcis setting a new track record in qualifying at 15:54 seconds. On July 2nd, 1964, it was Marv Marzofka winning the Feature race at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. Following Marzofka was Marlin Walbeck and Lyle Nabbefeldt. On July 1st, 1965, it was John McFaul winning the Feature race at Dells Motor Speedway. Following McFaul at the finish was, Dave Marcis, Dick Trickle, Larry Baumel and Ken Pancratz. Semi-Feature action found Rich Somers 1st followed by Jim Back and Homer Spink. Heat race winners were Del Kemnetz, Dick Brescia and John McNamara. Consolation race winner was Ron Beeman, with Lyle Nabbefeldt setting fast time at 14:05 seconds.
Dale's pics from the past. Jerry Wagner, #78, a pioneer of racing in Northern Wisconsin. Del Kemnetz in the # 44. A Marv Marzofka Ford in a full pit area. Marg/Farrar photos. Dave Marcis in a Nash Rambler! Marg/Farrar. John McFaul, #PT 109. Bob Bergeron photo. A race car Hotshoe, Herbie Kurth drove back in the day at tracks including State Park Speedway. Dale pic. Paul Paine in victory lane! QC Willy photo.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 701 Indiana Avenue, Stevens Point, WI. 54481 715-344-9072 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2020 June
Well, being that we have not seen a race anywhere, NASCAR doesn't count, and who has really,we'll talk a little bit about a race that we will be a part of, that is supposed to take place, May, 30th, 2020, at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI.. It's the Lyle Nabbefeldt Memorial event honoring one of the original pioneers of the sport in Wisconsin.
Lyle was one of the elite drivers back in the '60s in Wisconsin short track racing, before that word was even used in our sport. He and Augie Winkleman. Marlin Walbeck and many others that unfortunately who's names elude me, were the "Guys" at that point in time. Of course when they were fast, I was too young to know what that meant, but fortunately, parents that were interested in the sport took me to where I could figure it out!
A good thing about this race is that it is still happening. Obviously, with that many years past, how many even know who Lyle Nabbefeldt is! Interesting also, is that the original Memorial races that were held, featured a traveling trophy, that if you could win the event three consecutive years, it was yours to keep. Dick Trickle tried, Tom Reffner tried others won two, all coming close, but it was a 1990s era racer that eventually pulled that feat off. None other than La Crosse, WI., racer, who enjoyed plenty of success of his own, Rick Wateski, pulled off the feat, the first, and only driver to win the event three years running.
Now that you have your history lesson, we'll show you in text, and photo who Lyle Nabbefeldt was.
Here and there...Should see some racing action coming up here June 4th, in Wausau, WI., June 13th, in Marshfield, WI., June 19th in Plover, WI. and June 25th, back in Wausau, WI., as dates originally scheduled for that time are going to happen. Me being there, you will get a report on what took place...Back in time, on May 14th, 1966, Lyle Nabbefeldt won the 30 lap Feature race at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. Finishing behind Nabbefeldt was, Dave Marcis, Dick Trickle, Jere O'Day, and John Mc Namara. On July 28th, 1966, Lyle Nabbefeldt won the Feature in his famous X car at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. Following Nabbefeldt was Dick Trickle, Marv Marzofka, Dave Field and Rich Somers. On June 8th, 1962, Lyle Nabbefeldt won the Feature race at Friendship Speedway, Friendship, WI.
Dale's pics from the past. Lyle Nabbefeldt racing his X Coupe at Griffith Park Speedway, Wis. Rapids, WI., Bob Bergeron photo. #93 Rick Wateski. Lyle Nabbefeldt, #55s. Another X car, Chevy. We know Lyle Nabbefeldt drove this Dodge, 55s, but Mike Brown did as well. Lyle here ? in this Bob Bergeron photo at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI.? Ed "Gunner" Walkush in the #20, along with #67, Larry Rezin race with the 55s here.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 701 Indiana Avenue, Stevens Point, WI. 54481 715-344-9072 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2020 May
Our current situation with the Coronavirus doesn't compare to anything this writer has ever been through, but I do remember in 1974 when the racing World received a huge scare due to an Oil Embargo which threatened to halt the entire season.
What the embargo created in the US was a shortage of fuel. I personally remember letting my gas loving Chrysler run down to near nothing, (Being young and barely employed, I never knew where the next dollars were coming from to put something in the tank.) and then being shocked into reality of the shortage, as Gas stations were either closed entirely or open, but out of fuel! That particular episode had me parking the car for a couple days before the transport truck brought in fuel to our town. And then of course, you were limited in how much you could purchase, so it was like getting fuel, but having to stay home anyway. That was one of the scariest things growing up we ever had to deal with. Being young and a race fan and you can't get to the show!
Of course the affect was felt throughout the U.S with the threat of additional fuel rationing, while speed limits were drastically reduced to conserve the precious stuff. It had an effect on racing as you would expect as initially the sport was thought to be non-essential, (Heard that before?) and would be banned. Clearer heads somehow prevailed and racing actually did it's part, compared to some, with Series and tracks shortening the length of their races as well as eliminating unnecessary track time including practice and time trials. Miraculously Washington came to the rescue, and the whole thing blew over rather quickly. Some even thought, as with the Virus today it could all have been a leveraging, political ploy. But of course, we the people know better.
Here and there...On a side note from the fuel shortage in 1974, was the EPA implementing noise regulations. The restrictions to noise were really serious in Illinois, and of course that targeted racing. What the EPA set out to do with the new regulations would have totally eliminated racing from taking place. Enough lobbying occurred, and associations and tracks took it upon themselves to quiet things down. Alas, introduction of the muffler for race car use. I know most of us in this part of the Country were up in arms over the new ruling, but as time went on we became accustomed to the softer, quieter, sound. We found we could actually talk to each other watching the races without shouting as Larry Detjens raced by in his ear piercing, Hemi powered Mopar. We really did think the sound of that race car was great, but did eventually come to "Like" less loud race cars...Changing exhaust systems to accommodate the restricting muffler is what prompted Howe Racing Enterprises to introduce their up draft, or 180 degree headers. Now that was a game changer...Speaking of game changers in 1974, Rockford, IL., Speedway and Minnesota National (Elko) Speedways made a 60 Series street tire mandatory for their top Divisions of racing. The reasoning was to cut costs, but the ruling left a number of racers taking their show on the road...There were additional ramifications to the fuel situation in 1974, with people expecting fuel prices to go way up and curtail their racing entertainment. According to a popular columnist of the day, "The $.55 cent/gallon gas price probably curtailed many planned trips during the summer. When it costs $10.00 in fuel to take the family to a regular night of short track racing, it's not hard to see why there were more empty grandstand seats during the summer." WOW! How did we ever live through 1974? The same way, hopefully that we get through 2020, by standing together, or, maybe alone this time, and persevering...
Looking back in time, on April 25th, 1974, auto racing lost a prominent figure, as Alan "Moose" Peterson, lost his life when the motorcycle he was piloting lost control. Peterson began racing in 1961 before putting his energy into owning race cars. He owned the famous #19 and 19 cars driven by Everet Fox and Dick Trickle. The following season he got behind the efforts of Fox and Marv Marzofka. Peterson's cars were prolific winners including a stint with Harold Mueller on dirt where he won 78 Features. Peterson was 38 years old at the time of his death. Larry Detjens was the Feature winner Thursday, May 9th, 1974 at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI. Following Detjens to the Checkered Flag were, Jim Back, Tom Reffner, Marv Marzofka and Neil Callahan. It was Jerry Lewis, (No, not THAT Jerry Lewis.) winning the Feature race at Rockford Speedway, Rockford, IL., Saturday, May 11th, 1974. Following Lewis at the stripe were Benny Olson, Wayne Swartout, Don Marmor and Rich Blakely. Phil Stewart, owner/operator of Minnesota National Speedway, Elko, MN., died here unexpectedly, May 15th, 1974. Stewart reportedly suffered a cerebral hemorrhage. He was just 37 years of age. Harold Mueller took first in the Feature on May 25th, 1974 at the Black River Country Raceway, of Neillsville, WI., Saturday. Mueller was followed by Tom Steuding, Dan Duellman, Roger Guldan and Mike Knauf. Mark Lamoreaux and Dewey Gustafson each won 25 lap Features at Minnesota National Speedway, Monday, May 27th, 1974. Order of finish in the 1st main was Lamoreaux, John Boegeman, Jim Weber, Mike Demars and Gustafson. Gustafson led the way in main two followed by Ted Kitzman, Boegeman, Demars, and Lamoreaux. Dick Trickle won the 100 lap Lyle Nabbefeldt Memorial Race at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI., Tuesday night June 4th, 1974. Mike Miller finished behind Trickle in the main. Marv Marzofka won the 25 lap Feature at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI., here Friday night, June 28th, 1974. Marzofka took an early lead and out paced Jim Back, Jim Sauter, Rich Somers, and Pete Mahlum.
In the quote of the Column department, "Everything is still virtually, up in the air due to this Coronavirus. With the May 9th opening CWRA Stars to Legends Tour event at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., postponed, we now look with as much optimism as we can muster to opening the 2020 season at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., May 30th, for the Lyle Nabbefeldt Memorial race. In all my 63 years, I've never seen anything like this, and hope never to again." Dale P. Danielski, Central Wisconsin Racing Association President.
Dale's pics from the past. 1974, #25, Larry Detjens Dodge Challenger. Detjens, who owned a Body Shop had some of the sharpest looking race cars, year after year. The #91 Camaro, Marv Marv Marzofka raced in 1974. Dick Trickle, #99, poses with his Ford Mustang in 1974. 1974, #26, Mark Lamoreaux. 1975, #68, Dewey Gustafson having just finished racing at the Minnesota Fair. #19, Harold Mueller in the controversial Moose Peterson owned Camaro that was outlawed from Wisconsin pavement racing driven at the time by Ev Fox. Mueller went on to win numerous Features in the car.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 701 Indiana Avenue, Stevens Point, WI. 54481 715-344-9072 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2020 February
We certainly, again, hate opening our columns with a death notice, but unfortunately that is exactly what we must do.
The name Holzhausen is certainly a familiar one in Wisconsin racing annals, and patriarch of the racing family, W. W. (Bud) Holzhausen passed away here recently. Bud started the family affair in sport by himself racing, and then becoming a part of the push behind the new La Crosse Interstate Speedway being paved, which helped bring that kind of short track racing to Western Wisconsin. Bud whom had a business in the area and was a stock car owner, had nothing but good to say about the new speedway. "It's a real beaut. "I've been around racing for over 20 years, and I've never seen a better track". Those were the words spoken by Holzhausen as the newly paved, 5/8 mile speedway located at the Fairgrounds in West Salem, WI., was set to open in July of 1970.
Bud remained in stock car racing as an owner and sponsor for many years and of course with that involvement was bound to spur interest in it from his sons. Most are familiar with the family of racers, but just to refresh your memory, Steve, Greg and Brian all became racers. All chose the pavement to show their wares, and at a time when you could race 4 times or better a week became very good at their trade. Steve, who got the ball rolling first, probably fared the best of the group, as he moved through the ranks of CWRA, ARTGO and ASA racing winning races and Championships while moving up the ladder. Greg and Brian (Barney) meanwhile kept the flame burning racing for years on the short track level in Wisconsin and bordering states. It wasn't uncommon to see all three at race meets together in their familiar purple race cars. Mostly Ford products as that was Bud's favorite, owning a Dealership featuring that brand.
Time marches on and eventually the group stepped aside from racing with Steve hanging in the longest. That was mostly to nurture his son Skylar in the racing biz, who has gone on to a fine career in racing as well. Bud was certainly proud of the entire group, right to the end.
Here and there. CWRA continuing it's upward trend in holding race events has announced their schedule for 2020. May 9th, Marshfield Motor Speedway, May 30th, Dells Raceway Park, June 4th, State Park Speedway, June 12th, Tomah-Sparta Speedway, June 19th, Golden Sands Speedway, June 20th, Marshfield Motor Speedway, June 25th, State Park Speedway, July 11th, Marshfield Motor Speedway, August 1st, Dells Raceway Park, August 22nd, Marshfield Motor Speedway, September 11th, Marshfield Motor Speedway. Jeff Weinfurter has captured the last two CWRA Crowns and he looks to see clearly going for a 3rd in 2020.
Looking back in time to Tuesday, July 14th, 1970, it was Jim Sauter winning the first ever Feature at the new La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI., in front of over 4,000 fans. Average speeds at the event were 93.5mph with 110 mph reached on the back straightaway. Bud Holzhausen could be seen smiling the entire night...On Wednesday night, August 26th, 1987 it was Steve Holzhausen winning the 40 lap CWRA Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Following Holzhausen at the line were Kevin Cywinski, Mike Belling, Chuck Green and Steve Carlson...Looking back to 2003, it was Steve Holzhausen winning the Late Model Season Championship at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Holzhausen out-pointed Kevin Nuttleman, Charlie Menard, Tony Bagstad, and J. Herbst in the final standings...
Dale's Pics...Steve Holzhausen, #78 races his Bud Holzhausen, Coulee Ford at Wisconsin International Raceway in 1985. We think he is making the pass here of Mark Martin on the outside. Greg Holzhausen, #87, 1986. #787 Brian (Barney) Holzhausen, at speed, 1984 State Park Speedway. #78 Skylar Holzhausen driving thru the rumble strips at Marshfield.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2019 November
Halloween season is here, and that can only mean one thing. It's Impact Survival Series Creepy Classic time at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI.!
Promoter Matt Rowe's group was making their Annual visit to State Park, here October 26th for the event and as usual, it did not disappoint. Did not disappoint to the tune of 122 cars showing up to race in the 300 lap event!
Race they did, and as usual, a good mix of veteran drivers and newcomers to the sport took part, and action aplenty was standard fare on the day. One of the great things about this race, is you can be a veteran, or a novice, and still have a fighting chance to win. A driver that has been trying to win in this Series for 11 years took the win today, and how can anyone be disappointed in that. It was Brody Rivest taking the Checkered flag after 300 laps as he outdistanced Todd Tacheny for those honors. Rivest actually took the lead late from Tacheny, staying out of trouble the rest of the way for the huge victory.
Of course in viewing these races about all you can say is how much fun they are. It's a neat deal, and fun stuff for all.
The big Oktoberfest racing weekend concluded here October 6th, and this year track staff was able to get in three complete race programs out of the four scheduled. As everyone knows by now, in the Sunday Feature final it was Ty Majeski taking the 200 lap win. Starting to sound like a broken record, Majeski in victory lane, but unless someone comes up with a winning combination to match, the 91 car will continue to find victory circle. NASCAR in some capacity should have provided the ticket to Majeski by now, but that has become something way more than talent driven, and consequently Ty just keeps winning elsewhere.
A whole bunch of other racing was going on during the weekend, including the regular Saturday night NASCAR Late Model points finale on Thursday, October 3rd. Steve Carlson held the slimmest of margins of a lead going into the event, but when all was said and done, it was Nick Panitzke catching him and taking the 2019 Championship. Carlson can't be too disappointed in the finish as he was lucky to even be racing after having a surgical procedure performed a week or so prior to the finale. A good race to end the year with, and a nice way to cap off another season of racing at the Fairgrounds.
In that same race, Don Thunder Turner was making his 50th appearance racing at Oktoberfest. Thunder was even able to lead a number of laps in the main, which was certainly fitting for a racer that has participated in every Oktoberfest racing event!
Here and there...Champions Reunion XI provided the usual fun on Sunday of 'Fest, with the highlight being the appearance of an old, old, OLD, Larry Baumel race car hauler. Matt McGlaughlin found the rig listed online and had to have it, picking it up in time to display at the Reunion. Larry Baumel was a long time racer in the area and still lives close to the race track. Baumel raced locally before venturing off to do some NASCAR racing down South. He eventually found his way back to Wisconsin racing for a number of years before hanging up his helmet. Discussion took place at the Reunion of bringing a car out painted like when he raced it along with the familiar #11 he used. Now that will be a cool deal when it makes its appearance...In watching the ISS event at Wausau, you could just see as drivers, thinking they were finally in position to make a pass, forgot about the car that had been parked on the track the last 50 laps. Lap after lap, run the same line, dodge the car on the race track, get alongside this car, make the pass. Except that lap where it's, get alongside this car to pass, get by, and Oh! crap, I forgot about the car parked on the track the last 50 laps! So many I forgot moments, and that's another thing about this race that makes it interesting...
Looking back in time on Sunday night, August 4th, 1968 at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., it was Les Katzner winning the Feature race. Hilarian "Hurricane" Michlig followed in 2nd, with John Moquin 3rd. The Semi-Feature went to Ivan Fraaza, with heat race wins going to Phil Pomreneg and Katzner. Spectator admission for the race was $1.00. Looking back in 1976, it was Larry Detjens winning the Annual Oktoberfest race, 100 lap Feature at the West Salem, WI., Fairgrounds Speedway. Following Detjens at the finish was Joe Shear, Dave Watson, Dick Trickle, John Ziegler, Tom Reffner, Doug Strasburg, Jerry Eckhardt, Mark Lanoreaux and Jim Back. New attendance records were set for all three days of the event which boosted the purse pay-out to $20,745. 86 Late Models and 42 Hobbystock race cars competed during the weekend...
Dale's pics A Larry Baumel race car hauler, brought to Champions Reunion XL courtesy of Matt McGlaughlin. The #46 of Creepy Classic winner Brody Rivest with the Happy Rooster on the roof along for the ride. Frankenstein likes racing too! Thunder Turner raced this #7 car in the 50th running of Oktoberfest.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 715-344-9072, 608-518-2478 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
MAY 26, 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI
608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
VETERAN DRIVERS WEINFURTER, MACKESY TAKE STARS TO LEGENDS TOUR WINS IN JIM BACK MEMORIAL RACE
MARSHFIELD, WI - Two veteran drivers with many wins through the years under their belts were the class of the field here as Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., and Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., took CWRA Stars to Legends Tour as presented by Smiley's Old Time Diner, Feature wins in the Jim Back Memorial race at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., Saturday night. The race held in honor of the legendary driver, Jim Back, a many time Champion and extremely popular driver racing throughout Wisconsin from the 1960's all the way into the 1980's featured main events of 30 and 31 laps, 61 total, commemorating Back who used that car number throughout his career.
Rachal Kallas, Winneconne, WI., and Weinfurter via a draw for position prior to the start, started on the front row of main one with Weinfurter jumping out to an early lead. It didn't take long for Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., from his 4th starting spot to begin putting pressure on Weinfurter for the top spot. A caution period briefly slowed action, but back under green flag racing conditions, Weinfurter once again took the lead. Jackson again came up to challenge and the halfway point of the race saw the two battling side by side. Lap after lap Jackson tried to make the outside lane work to make the pass with Weinfurter using the inside line to deny him. Finally with just a handful of laps remaining, Jackson slipped just a bit on the backstretch, allowing Weinfurter enough breathing room to take the checkered flag first after 30 laps of intense racing. Jackson placed 2nd, with Mark Mackesy who started 10th on the grid and was closing on the duo late, settling for 3rd at the finish. Rounding out the top six finishers were Rookie driver on the Tour, Brian Henry, Omro, WI., Derrick Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI., and Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI.,
The 31 lap Feature finale didn't offer quite the drama of the first main, but saw plenty of side by side racing nonetheless. Darek Gress jumped out to the early lead with Mark Mackesy quickly moving up to challenge. By lap 6 Mackesy had taken the top spot and was never seriously challenged thereafter taking the win by a comfortable margin. Jeff Weinfurter was the man on the move in the race as he motored from his 6th starting spot to 2nd by lap 12. A caution flag tightened things up but all the racing was for positions behind Mackesy who took the checkered flag in front of Weinfurter, Jackson, up from 5th starting spot, Gress, Henry, and Kallas.
Next action for the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour group will be the Lyle Nabbefeldt Memorial race at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., Saturday night, June 16th. The race will feature two 55 lap main events honoring Nabbefeldt who raced and won often competing in the 1960's and 1970's.
SUMMARY
30 lap Feature one 1. Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., 2. Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., 3. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., 4.Brian Henry, Omro, WI., 5. Derrick Van Dreel, Wis. Rapids, WI., 6. Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI., 7. Rachal Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 8. Jesse Bernhagen, Stevens Point, WI., 9. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., 10. Greg Matthews, Wis. Rapids, WI.,, 11. Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI., 12. Monte Gress, Neillsville, WI., 13. Jack Greenwood, Phillips, WI.
31 Lap Feature two 1. Mackesy, 2.Weinfurter, 3. Jackson 4. D. Gress, 5. Henry, 6. Kallas, 7. Bernhagen, 8. Van Dreel, 9. Nitzke, 10. Sievers, 11. Matthews, 12. M. Gress, 13. Greenwood.
AR BODIES
10% off Product certificate 5th place Feature one Derrick Van Dreel
5th place Feature two Brian Henry
Coleman Racing Products
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature one Jeff Weinfurter Pass for lead
$50 Product certificate "Brake of the Race" Feature two Frank Nitzke Bad breaks
Howe Racing Ent.
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature one Mark Mackesy 10th-3rd
$50 Product certificate Hard Charger Feature two Jeff Weinfurter 6th-2nd
Tiry's Race Engines
$100 off certificate Feature one Rachal Kallas 7th
$100 off certificate Feature two Jesse Bernhagen 7th
CWRA Stars to Legends point standings as of 5/26/18
1. Mark Mackesy 196
2. Jeff Weinfurter 186
3. Darren Jackson 182
4. Darek Gress 177
5. Derrick Van Dreel 151
6. Jesse Bernhagen 151
7. Brian Henry 147
8. Rachal Kallas 140
9. Frank Nitzke 123
10. Mike Sievers 112
11. Greg Matthews 110
12. Monte Gress 109
13. Jim Sauter Jr. 82
14. Brock Heinrich 62
15. Dave Neitzke 55
16. Jack Greenwood 54
17. Dakota Blakeslee 52
Mark Mackesy and Derrick Van Dreel take Albert Getzloff Memorial wins at Golden Sands Speedway in race four of the CWRA "Stars to Legends" Tour
June 23rd, 2017
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: DALE P. DANIELSKI
608-783-5827
dale@starmakermultimedia.com
MACKESY AND VAN DREEL POST WINS
IN ALBERT GETZLOFF MEMORIAL AT GOLDEN SANDS
PLOVER, WI - It was round four of the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour here at Golden Sands Speedway, as the Albert Getzloff Memorial race was held in honor of the long time race tire sales and service provider for CWRA, who passed away this past year. When all was said and done it was Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., and Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., in victory lane at the conclusion of the two 30 lap Feature events.
The first 30 lap main started with Jesse Pokszyk, Friendship, WI., and Jake Capek battling, with Capek securing the early lead. Rising star on the Tour Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., soon found herself in the mix grabbing the lead from Capek a short time later. Meanwhile, the winner of the last two CWRA races, Mackesy was cruising through the field in search of the lead. Mackesy found that lead at the mid-point of the race and built a cushion, looking like a shoo in for the win. Mark Eswein, Wis. Rapids, WI., in his first CWRA start of the year had other ideas however, moving into second spot with 10 laps to go in hot pursuit of Mackesy. The two raced nose to tail for several laps with time ultimately running out on Eswein who had to settle for second position behind Mackesy who took the win by a car length. Battles raged behind the leading duo and after 30 laps of racing it was Monty Gress, Neillsville, WI., in his best finish to date, Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., Jerry Brickner, Wausau, WI., and points leader Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., following.
Main event number two found round two CWRA winner, Derrick Van Dreel on the front row and he wasted no time in taking the lead. Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI., in his first CWRA start followed in second looking for a mistake by Van Dreel to take the lead. The mistake never did come however, and Van Dreel raced to his second CWRA Stars to Legends Tour win of the 2017 campaign leading all 30 laps with Jackson a close second. Mackesy and Eswein after starting deep in the 18 car field worked their way to the front along with Weinfurter, putting on a battle that was second to none for the third position. The trio raced nose to tail and side by side for numerous laps, even making contact on occasion, before Weinfurter finally secured the position at the finish. Eswein wound up fourth followed by Mackesy, and Capek.
The next event for the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour will be Saturday, July 15th at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI.. In an extremely close race, new points leader Derrick Van Dreel will be there taking on the challenges of an anticipated 15-20 car field in the event that will honor former CWRA stars that became legends, Marv Marzofka and Tom Reffner, who will both be in attendance.
For additional information on CWRA go to the CWRA Facebook page or to starmakermultimedia.com under the news section.
SUMMARY
30 lap Feature one 1. Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI. 2. Mark Eswein, Wis. Rapids, WI. 3. Monte Gress, Neillsville, WI. 4. Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI. 5. Jerry Brickner, Wausau, WI. 6. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI. 7. Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI. 8. Darren Jackson, Wis. Rapids, WI. 9. Steve Lichtfeld, Portage, WI. 10. Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI. 11. Jesse Pokszyk, Friendship, WI. 12. Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI. 13. Jeff Nowak, Wausau, WI. 14. Kirby Kurth, Wis. Rapids, WI. 15. Dave Neitzke, Eureka, WI. 16. Wayne Breitenfeldt, Wausau, WI. 17.Dakota Blakeslee, Wis. Rapids, WI. 18. Renee Scheinoha, Wis. Rapids, WI. 19. Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI.
30 lap Feature two 1. Van Dreel, 2. Jackson, 3. Weinfurter, 4. Eswein, 5. Mackesy, 6. Capek, 7. Brickner, 8. Gress, 9. Lichtfeld, 10. Nitzke, 11. Pokszyk, 12. Kallas, 13. Kurth, 14. Neitzke, 15. Breitenfeldt, 16. Blakeslee, 17. Nowak, 18. Scheinoha, 19. Sievers, DNS.
Dash 1. Mackesy
Qualifying 1. Brickner
CWRA Stars To Legends Tour point standings as of 6/23/17
1. Derrick Van Dreel 292
2. Frank Nitzke 291
3. Jeff Weinfurter 290
4. Jake Capek, 287
5. Rachel Kallas 257
6. Michael Sievers 207
7. Mark Mackesy 200
8. Monty Gress 181
9. Kirby Kurth 154
10. Wayne Breitenfeldt 150
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JUNE 16TH, 2017
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POINT LEADER NITZKE LOOKING
FOR STARS TO LEGENDS TOUR WIN
PLOVER, WI - Former Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., Super Late Model track champion and current CWRA "Stars to Legends" point leader, Frank Nitzke of Berlin, WI., is looking for his first 2017 racing season Feature win. Now would be the perfect time as the speedway presents the CWRA "Stars to Legends Tour" Albert Getzloff Memorial race on Friday night, June 23rd.
The race is named in honor of Getzloff who handled tire sales for CWRA and others in Wisconsin for many years. Always of quick wit, Getzloff was involved in the sport since it's infancy in the 1960s and has been a mainstay ever since until his passing due to heart complications.
Nitzke is heading up a 15-20 car field of CWRA drivers that will be shooting for the top prize in the First Annual Albert Getzloff Memorial event. Having raced and won throughout the State of Wisconsin, Nitzke has chosen to race on the CWRA Tour due to cost factors built into the series. "I'm racing with CWRA because it's more affordable and still really competitive. They require the Towel City Racing tire for all their events which is cheaper in upfront cost and lasts much longer than the other tires out there. I love this tire, it's really been fun racing with it on the tour"
With three CWRA events in the books, Nitzke finds himself on top the point standings with 222 points, slightly ahead of Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI., 218, and Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., 214. Nitzke's consistent finishes in main event competition have put him first in points but a win at Golden Sands could propel him the rest of the way with four CWRA races remaining. "Consistency is good but a win in the Getzloff Memorial Race at a track I'm a former Champion at would be great!"
Besides the aforementioned drivers, Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., and the last CWRA Tour event winner at Wausau's State Park Speedway, is another driver that will be racing in the Getzloff Memorial. With two CWRA main event wins at State Park, Mackesy has momentum on his side and will be a favorite to win. Local racer Jeff Weinfurter, Wisconsin Rapids, WI., and the only female competitor racing the entire Tour, 17 year old Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., will also be challenging for the prestigious Getzloff Memorial race win.
In addition to CWRA, a full program of racing will be held with a huge Fireworks display capping off the evening.
Fan gates at the Speedway will open at 5:00 pm with racing set to start at 7:45pm.
Golden Sands Speedway is located 6 miles West of Plover, WI., or 7 miles East of Wisconsin Rapids, WI., on Highway 54.
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June 8th, 2017 Mark Mackesy #12 CWRA State Park Speedway victor
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MACKESY VICTORIOUS IN CWRA STARS TO
LEGENDS TOUR EVENT AT STATE PARK SPEEDWAY
WAUSAU, WI - Mark Mackesy, Wausau, WI., not only picked up his first Feature win of the 2017 racing season, but roared to a main event sweep, capturing both 25 lap events in the CWRA "Stars to Legends Tour" event at State Park Speedway here Thursday night. The race program was the third for CWRA in 2017.
For Mackesy it was his first start on the CWRA Tour this year and he made the most of it by taking the lead in main event number one at the halfway point and holding off a determined Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., at the end of 25 laps. Following the two at the finish were Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI., early race leader, Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., and Wayne Breitenfeldt, Wausau, WI.
The second 25 lap main found Mackesy starting from the 7th spot in the lineup but that proved barely a deterrent, as the local racing favorite wasted no time again moving into the first position near the half-way point of the event. The task became a bit tougher in race number two than one for Mackesy however, as Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., who suffered mechanical problems in the first Feature came flying through the field from the back of the pack to challenge. Drawing up to Mackesy's rear bumper was as close as Weinfurter could get however, as the laps ran out with Mackesy getting his 2nd main event win of the night holding off Weinfurter. A spirited battle took place throughout the race between four drivers for the next positions, with Van Dreel eventually securing the 3rd spot with Capek, Nitzke and Kallas following at the finish.
With his two main event wins, Mackesy was declared the overall winner of the event followed by Capek, Nitzke, Van Dreel, and Kallas.
Nitzke's solid performance has put him on top the point standings heading into the next CWRA "Stars to Legends Tour" event Friday, June 23rd, at the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI. That event will be the Albert Getzloff Memorial race, held in honor of Getzloff, who provided drivers with race tire service for many years on the Central Wisconsin Racing Association circuit.. A full program is scheduled for the night with racing set to start at 7:45pm.
For more information on CWRA go to the CWRA Facebook page or to starmakermultimedia.com under the news section.
SUMMARY
25 lap Feature race one. 1. Mark Mackesy, Wausau WI., 2. Frank Nitzke Berlin, WI. 3. Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI., 4. Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 5.Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., 6. Wayne Breitenfeldt, Wausau, WI., 7.Darek Gress, Neillsville, WI., 8. Monty Gress, Neillsville, WI., 9. Mike Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI., 10.Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI.
25 lap Feature race two. 1. Mackesy, 2. Weinfurter, 3. Van Dreel, 4. Capek, 5. Nitzke, 6. Kallas, 7. D. Gress, 8. Breitenfeldt, 9. M. Gress, 10. Sievers.
Overall event standings. 1. Mackesy, 2. Capek, 3. Nitzke, 4. Van Dreel, 5. Kallas.
Qualifying 1. Weinfurter.
CWRA Stars To Legends Tour point standings as of 6/8/17.
1. Frank Nitzke 222
2. Jake Capek 218
3. Derrick Van Dreel 214
4. Jeff Weinfurter l 204
5. Rachel Kallas 192
6. Michael Sievers 165
7. Skylar Holzhausen 144
8. Mark Mackesy 108
9. Wayne Breitenfeldt. 101
10. Kirby Kurth 101
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May 27, 2017
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VAN DREEL CAPTURES FIRST EVER FEATURE WIN
IN STARS TO LEGENDS BACK MEMORIAL RACE
Marshfield, WI - Derrick Van Dreel of Stevens Point, WI., could not have picked a better time to win his first ever Feature race as he roared to an impressive win in the CWRA Super Late Model "Stars to Legends" Jim Back Memorial event at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., Saturday. The event was to consist of Feature events of 30 and 31 laps representing legendary driver Jim Back's car number 61, but was called official after the first 30 lapper due to a power failure at the track.
For Van Dreel who is racing on the entire "Stars to Legends" Tour this year it was his first Feature win of any kind in any division of racing. Van Dreel paced himself early on before taking the lead from Jake Capek of Nekoosa, WI., midway through the event and then holding of Brian Back of Rudolph, WI., for the win. Battles were going on throughout the 16 car Feature field and when the checkered flag waved it was Van Dreel first, followed by Back who was racing in memory of his late Grandfather Jim, Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., Michael Sauter, West Salem, WI., Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., and Capek.
Heat race victors on the night were Back and Capek.
The next event for the CWRA "Stars to Legends" Tour drivers will be at State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI., on Thursday, June 8th where a full program is scheduled. Racing is set to begin at 7pm. For more information on CWRA go to the CWRA Facebook page or to starmakermultimedia.com under the News section.
SUMMARY
30 lap Feature race.. 1. Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., 2. Brian Back, Rudolph, WI., WI. 3. Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI.,4. Michael Sauter, West Salem, WI., 5. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., 6. Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI., 7. Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 8. Skylar Holzhausen, Sparta, WI., 9. Kirby Kurth, Wis. Rapids, WI., 10. Monty Gress, Neilsville, WI.
Heat 1 1. Back, 2. Nitzke, 3. Sauter.
Heat 2 1. Capek, 2. Kallas, 3. M. Gress.
Tour point standings as of 5/27/17.
1. Skylar Holzhausen 144
2. Frank Nitzke 132
3. Jake Capek 130
4. Derrick Van Dreel 124
5. Jeff Weinfurter 118
6. Rachel Kallas 111
7. Michael Sievers 102
8. Kirby Kurth 101
9. Eugene Gregorich, Jr. 96
10. Putch Bentley 90
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May 13, 2017
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CWRA STARS TO LEGENDS TOUR KICKS OFF SEASON
WITH LYLE NABBEFELDT MEMORIAL RACE
WIS. DELLS, WI - The Central Wisconsin Racing Association "Stars to Legends Tour kicked off its 2017 season with the Lyle Nabbefeldt Memorial race at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., here Saturday night with star driver Skylar Holzhausen of Bangor, WI., taking the overall win.
The event featured two 55 lap main events commemorating Nabbefeldt's car number when he raced in the 1970s on short tracks throughout Wisconsin. Nabbefeldt was killed at the Dells track while qualifying in 1973 and the race is held in his honor.
Holzhausen who was fastest on the day started last in the 12 car field for the 1st 55 lap segment but soon was moving quickly through the field. A move past early leader and upstart driver Jake Capek of Nekoosa, WI. with 15 laps to go sealed the win for Holzhausen who went on to a 5 car length victory. Capek stayed within striking distance but was forced to settle for 2nd at the checkered flag. Rounding out the top finishers were Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., Eugene Gregorich, Jr., Amherst Jct, WI., and Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI.
A partial inversion for the 2nd 55 lap main put Gregorich Jr, on the pole position and he wasted no time in bolting out to a huge lead. Holzhausen meanwhile was working his way to the front and finally caught Gregorich Jr, with 20 laps to go. The two battled nose to tail and side by side for several laps before Holzhausen secured the lead going on to a 10 car length victory. With wins in both 55 lap Feature events, Holzhausen was crowned the 2017 Lyle Nabbefeldt Memorial Champion. With the Crown went the original traveling trophy that has gone to the winner of the event back when the memorial race was initiated in 1973.
Following Holzhausen and Gregorich, Jr., in the 55 lap nightcap were Capek, Nitzke, and Rachel Kallas of Winneconne, WI. Overall final standings found Holzhausen 1st with 100 points followed by Capek, 90, Gregorich Jr., 88, Nitzke, 86 and Kallas with 74.
Next up for the CWRA "Stars to Legends Tour" will be a stop at the Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., Saturday night, May 27th for the Jim Back Memorial race. Racing on the night begins at 7pm.
SUMMARY
55 lap Feature one. 1. Skylar Holzhausen, Bangor, WI., 2. Jake Capek, Nekoosa, WI.,3. Frank Nitzke, Berlin, WI., 4. Eugene Gregorich, Jr., 5. Jeff Weinfurter, Wis. Rapids, WI., 6. Michael Sievers, Wis. Rapids, WI., 7.Derrick Van Dreel, Stevens Point, WI., 8. Rachel Kallas, Winneconne, WI., 9. Kirby Kurth, Wis. Rapids, WI., 10th. Putch Bentley, Iron River, MI. 55 lap Feature two. 1. Holzhausen 2, Gregorich, Jr., 3. Capek, 4. Nitzke, 5. Kallas, 6. Van Dreel, 7. Kurth ,8. Sievers, 9. Bentley, 10. Weinfurter.
Tour point standings as of 5/13/17.
1. Skylar Holzhausen 110
2. Eugene Gregorich, Jr. 96
3. Frank Nitzke 92
4. Jake Capek 92
5. Rachel Kallas 75
6. Jeff Weinfurter 74
7. Derrick Van Dreel 74
8. Mike Sievers 73
9. Kirby Kurth 69
10. Putch Bentley 63
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2018 November
With the racing season in these parts near its end, it was off to the Annual Oktoberfest Racing weekend at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI. If you haven't seen a particular racing you like at this point of the year any year for that matter, go to this event as it offers just about everything!
Unfortunately this year, too much of the discussion about the event taking place is the result of disqualifications in races rather than the competitive nature of the events themselves. The silver lining I guess is that the major disqualifications took place in the Sunday finale, ARCA Midwest Tour 200 event so folks had all good things to say the prior three days of 'Fest racing!
I'm all for a level playing field in racing and it would appear Ricky Brooks the new tech man in town for 'Fest accomplished that by DQing the top three finishers in the 200, winner Ty Majeski, 2nd place Johnny Sauter and 3rd place finisher, Jacob Goede. Elevating the 4th place finisher Andrew Morrissey to the podium after the bulk of the crowd had left doesn't sit well with too many people, including Morrissey who picked up the winners share of the purse! Social media offers quicker up to date news than in years past and that ran wild announcing what had happened while people were driving home. But even at that, it can't replace fans having witnessed the action, seen the outcome as it unfolded before their eyes, and known how it all ended up. Maybe there is something to be said for the way NASCAR does it, as in the win stands but points are lost, money is taken away and fines issued. I don't like any of it, but with all the different combinations to deal with as far as the race cars and engines it's nearly impossible to police without dedicating way too much time to tech. There are just too many things that make up these race cars that could be a competitive advantage if left unchecked. Unless, maybe racing on a tire that provides the equalizer for all these combinations and even allows for a division or two down from the top Super Late Model class to be competitive. I think that is the answer.
Here and there.
So much racing, and for the first time in three years all four days of 'Fest racing were completed, virtually in their entirety. What many folks don't realize is the constant activity going on both on the racetrack and at the Fairgrounds during 'Fest. The Pet Parade is always one of my favorites and again this year, it certainly didn't disappoint. Top notch bands featuring various artists also provide after the races, nighttime entertainment for fans wanting to party a little more...Great fun was had as usual with Champions Reunion X held on Sunday, October 7th with a hearty turnout of racers and promoters on hand. Featured guests this year were short track racing greats Mike Miller and Tom Reffner. A car Miller drove back in the early 1980s was on hand with car restorer Dan Navrestad driving it in the Vintage race. A look-alike 1974 AMC Javelin redone by Gilbertson brothers John and Paul was also on hand and Reffner did Miller one better by driving the car in the race! A lot of the Tom Reffner from days gone by shown through, as the Blue Knight finished 4th in the Feature race for the group...Todd Korish, back behind the wheel of a race car, took the 15 lap Vintage race win in a car owned by Mike Wall, that was redone up to look like a Coors Light car Dick Trickle drove years ago... Race season isn't totally over as the Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., was scheduled to run their Falloween 150 on Saturday, October 27th. Matt Rowe will have run his ISS Creepy Classic 300 Enduro event at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., Saturday October 27th as well. This event drew over 100 cars last year, and held in the snow, paid $5,000 to the winner! Hopefully we will have some info on these events in our next column.
And looking back in time on Tuesday, June 21st, 1977, it was Mike Miller winning the Feature race at Paul's Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI. Following Miller to the Checkered flag were Larry Detjens, Tom Reffner, Jim Sauter and Marv Marzofka. Bob Mackesy won the Semi-Feature. Heat race wins went to Les Stankowski, Tom Steuding and Marzofka. The dash win went to Reffner with Detjens Fast Qualifier at 13:198 seconds. June 22nd, 1977, found Mike Miller winning the Feature at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. Following Miller in the main were Steve Burgess, Tom Reffner, Jim Sauter and Jim Back. Heat race wins went to Larry Baumel, Don James and Miller. Semi-Feature honors went to Jim Johnson with the Dash win going to Sauter. Fast time was turned by Burgess at 20:710 seconds. On August 23rd, 1978, it was Tom Reffner winning the Feature race at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. Following Reffner in the main were Marv Marzofka, Jim Back, Ted Musgrave and Jeff Stegmeyer. Semi-Feature honors went to Don Turner. Heat race victors were Denny Paasch, Orv Buelow and Mike Miller. The Dash victor was Marzofka with fast time on the night set by Reffner at 20:348 seconds. On October 8th, 1978 it was Tom Reffner winning the Busch 150 at Colorado International Speedway, Colorado Springs, CO. Mike Opperman followed Reffner to the Checkered placing 2nd. Reffner earned $4,500 for his weekend's work...
Dale's Pics...Mike Miller trying out his old Camaro race car for size as part of Champions Reunion 10 at Oktoberfest 2018. Tom Reffner gets ready to race at Oktoberfest. John Alft discovered hood from Olds Cutlass Mike drove autographed by the man himself. ( Gayle Kronberger photos) The cool man behind the shades, Mike Miller #18 Mustang. A Mustang or two of Mike's evolved into the Cutlass race cars he ran later. Flagman at the time Bill Gronley posed with Tom Reffner a lot after wins for Tom in the Javelin.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
2018 October
Well we finally got to a dirt show here in 2018, spending a very entertaining evening at the Deer Creek Speedway of Racine, MN., August 25th for their season Championship event.
Too often at dirt shows, by feature time the track is pretty much sealed over producing about one and a half grooves of racing. Now of course you can do an hour of "farming" but to me dragging a show out that long with the hope it might improve main event racing, is not the thing to do. That wasn't the case here at Deer Creek. The track was in great shape from the get go, and actually got more racy as the night went on! Multiple grooves for racing, with the fast way around inches from the outside wall. Now that was fun stuff to watch.
With it being championship night at the track and points ramifications with WISSOTA Nationally, a number of drivers that maybe wouldn't have been there showed up for the event. With all that, a fair amount of drama was prevalent which certainly added to the excitement on the evening. I used to get to more dirt shows than I do now, and after catching this program and seeing what I've missed, I need to get back in that mode. All in all great stuff at Deer Creek Speedway.
It was off to the Greg Oliver promoted Tomah-Sparta Speedway, Tomah, WI., for some CWRA Stars to Legends Tour action, Sunday afternoon, September 16th., for the Dick Trickle Classic. The event featured the Super Late Model type race car for the first time in over 20 years and they put on a great afternoon of racing. The day was spent honoring Dick Trickle who raced and won at this track back in the 1960s. To honor Dick, race cars that represented eras of his racing were on display. A Doug Rogers, 1963 Ford, replica car of what Dick drove at this track back in 1966 was on hand and paced one of the 35 lap Feature events. Talk about old time memories, fans were abuzz seeing that car on the track. A car Dick drove in the late 1980s and early '90s, restored to original Miller High Life Beer livery by John Gilbertson was on hand as well with Paul Gilbertson behind the wheel, pacing the second 35 lap main much to the delight of the enthusiastic crowd on hand. With all that going on it was time to do a little racing!
A number of folks were very concerned how things would go for the Super Late type car at Tomah as the track is very narrow and tough to pass on. With 21 and 22 cars starting the mains respectively on the 3/8 mile paved oval, no one needed to worry, as other than a few minor spins, great, competitive, side by side racing, featuring much passing on the outside was seen by all! Interesting to note that in the 1st main it was a Limited type race car driven by Jesse Bernhagen coming from deep in the field to win! The 2nd main was ultra competitive with Joey Pontbriand from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan making the 5 hour tow worthwhile winning the 35 lap event. All in all, a great day of racing honoring a true legend of short track racing, Dick Trickle.
Here and there...Winners at Deer Creek on their Championship night of racing included Josh Angst in Modifieds, Ryan Wiome in Super Stocks, Danny Richards in Street Stocks, Alex Williamson in Midwest Modifieds and JT Wasmund in B Mods. Kind of cool to see names like Stoa, Sorenson, Timm, Hillson, Richards, Duellman, Redetzke, Brauer, to name some. In some cases they were the Dads still racing, and in some instances the kids, In some cases it was both! Regardless, it definitely means I'm getting a bunch older! Regular CWRA Stars to Legends Tour driver, Mark Mackesy was having engine issues at Tomah and his racing in the event was in jeopardy. Mackesy still has a shot at the 2018 Tour Championship, but who should come to the rescue and help him get his race car ready? None other than Tour point leader, Jeff Weinfurter. Hard not to appreciate that kind of co-operation especially in today's high stress, hide everything on your car World of racing...Finishes on the day in the Dick Trickle Classic, in main one, Bernhagen, Hunter Stenson, Darek Gress, Darren Jackson, Mackesy, Weinfurter, Frank Nitzke, Putch Bentley, Derrick Van Dreel and Rachel Kallas. Main two found Pontbriand 1st, followed by Bernhagen, Weinfurter, Stenson, Jackson, Gress, Rob Christen, Mackesy, Kallas and Bentley...Jesse Bernhagen made a run at Joey Pontbriand in the 2nd main event but was forced to settle for 2nd. We figure with the burn-out he did after his win in main won, the rubber he didn't have left on his tires proved the difference! Was really saddened by the news of "The Green Mamba" Doug Rose passing away in a crash. You know, every time he put on that burning up a car show I couldn't help but be impressed. It was pretty much the same each time, but it was just, the neatest thing. Sad we won't be able to witness that again... It was season finale time for the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour as presented by Smiley's Old Time Diner, at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., 9/29/18. Although some drama took place, it was Jeff Weinfurter hanging on for the Championship with a come from behind win in the 2nd 30 lap Feature race. Weinfurter had broken a spindle in Feature number one departing the race and losing points to 2nd place in the Championship hunt, Darren Jackson. The second 30 found Weinfurter passing 19 cars on the way to the win and Championship! Some great racing on the day which also found Jesse Bernhagen capturing "Rookie of the Year" honors over Brian Henry. Plans are underway for next year's Tour with a similar schedule of events. Finish in 30 lap Feature one was Chad Butz winning his first Tour race followed by Neil Knoblock, Darek Gress, Dan Lindsley, Putch Bentley and Corey Manders. 30 lap Feature #2 had Weinfurter 1st, followed by Lindsley, Butz, Jason Stark, Derrick Van Dreel and Knoblock...
Champions Reunion 10 set for Sunday, October 7th, from 11am-2pm, as part of Oktoberfest racing at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., is drawing plenty of attention with racers from no less than 4 eras of racing planning to attend. Of course the Stars of the show will be Tom Reffner who will meet and greet fans and also be racing an AMC Javelin that looks exactly like the one he won 67 Features with in 1975 racing in the day's Vintage race, and Mike Miller who will be on hand along with the race car he drove in 1981. A fun day for all, open to all former Champions in any Division, any track or series, or an Oktoberfest main event winner eligible...as long as they haven't raced in the last three years...
And looking back in time on Friday, June 19th, 1964 at Tomah-Sparta Speedway, it was Everett Fox winning the Feature race followed by Lyle Nabbefeldt, Marlin Walbeck, Dave Marcis and Marv Marzofka. The Semi-Feature went to Dick Trickle followed by John Mc Namara, Dave Larson and Larry Olson. The Consolation race went to Loren Iverson, followed by, Cecil Henderson and Wayne Kittleson. Heat race winners were Iverson, Larson, McNamara and Fox. Fast time went to Fox at 16:48 seconds around the 1/4 mile paved oval. Looking back on August 26, 1966, at Tomah-Sparta it was Marv Marzofka winning the 30 lap Feature over Dick Trickle. Semi-main honors went to Gary Kneisley. Consolation race winner was Tom Jensen with heat wins going to Mike Finnigan, Homer Spink and Trickle. Fast timer was Marzofka. Looking back to October 7th, 1990 it was Scott Hansen winning the 100 lap ARTGO Oktoberfest Feature over Steve Carlson, Joe Shear, Kevin Cywinski, Jim Weber and Steve Holzhausen.
Dale's Pics...1970 Ford Mustang driven by Dick Trickle in 1973. John "Rags" Reget had the car on display at the Dick Trickle Classic, Sunday afternoon, September 16th. Ken Lewis had the White Knight, Ford Mustang look alike car on display at the Trickle Classic. Trickle drove a car that looked like this back in the mid-1970s. The 1963 Ford look alike car that Dick Trickle drove to the 1966 Rockford National Short track Championship win in as well as victories at Tomah, restored to look original by Doug Rogers. The John Gilbertson Camaro driven by Dick Trickle back in the late 1980s and early '90s. Jeff Weinfurter #3 celebrates his Feature win and 2018 CWRA Stars to Legends Tour Championship at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Saturday, September 29th.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
2018 September
It's funny how season point championships that appear to be all but decided end up being close due to circumstances you wouldn't predict. Case in point, the big lead Steve Carlson had going into NASCAR Late Model action here at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., August 18th, is now down to just 4 points after he was involved in an accident which he almost never is!
With a two Feature format for racing there is always the chance of greatly expanding a point lead. On the flipside, you can lose twice the ground if things don't go well. Steve Carlson is no stranger to winning championships, so pressure isn't one of those things that come up in conversation when discussing how he'll handle a tight situation. That probably had nothing to do with the uncharacteristic contact between he and Brent Kirchner in the first 20 lap Feature on this Saturday, or the fact it appeared Carlson may have come down a bit on Kirchner causing him to spin and wind up in the infield grass with substantial rear end damage to his race car. The end result was Nick Panitzke, his closest challenger went on to a 3rd place finish in the Feature, with Carlson relegated to 21st at the checkered flag and scrambling to figure out what to do to start the second main event. The John Gilbertson team decided on running their back up car, the race car Nick Clements has been driving all year in the second Feature, in hopes of salvaging the night. If you are thinking I'm going to give you the storybook ending to the evening's racing with Carlson roaring through the field from last in his back-up car to win the Feature and all but secure another Championship, you'd be very wrong! As a matter of fact, things even went a bit further back as Panitzke did the roaring, winning the 2nd 20 lap main, with Carlson, not looking at all comfortable in the back up car, soldiering on to an 8th place finish. This is how it can go late in sporting events, late in race seasons; It ain't over until it's over!
So with one points race remaining, at the track, the Thursday of Oktoberfest Racing Weekend, Carlson hopes his 4 point lead holds up and he can capture his 5th NASCAR Late Model Championship there in six tries. It will certainly make for a much more interesting and exciting end to the 2018 season than a racer having an insurmountable lead going in!
Here and there...Caught the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour action here Friday, August 10th, at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., and saw a record turnout of cars for the group thus far, as 20 racers signed in to do battle in two 30 lap Feature events. Jeff Weinfurter is really starting to figure things out with that group as he took both 30 lap Feature event wins on the night. The first 30 finish found Weinfurter being trailed by Jesse Poksczk, Monte Gress, Darren Jackson and Dave Neitzke. The 2nd 30 had Weinfurter 1st followed by Jackson, Neitzke, Rachel Kallas and Monte Gress. Speaking of points battles, that Tour's radically changed as Mark Mackesy who had a sizeable lead saw it all go away and then some as Weinfurter has a 48 point advantage over 2nd place Darren Jackson, with Mackesy dropping down to 3rd. What a difference a couple shows can make. Ground can be made up (Or lost of course as we've noted.) with two Tour events remaining, The Dick Trickle Classic at Tomah-Sparta Speedway, Tomah, WI., Sunday afternoon, September 16th, where two 30 lap Main events will be run and at the Annual Fall Shootout at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., September 28th, where again two main events will be held...Action at Lax Speedway August 11th found Nick Panitzke winning the NASCAR LM main. Little did he know at the time that win would keep him in the thick of the battle with Steve Carlson and still have a fighting chance at a Championship. See above for what can happen...We always like to see first time winners in racing and it happened a couple more times here 8/18/18 at Lax Speedway as Michael Beamish won his first ever NASCAR Late Model Feature in the first 20 lap Feature held on the night. The Minnesota traveler passed a bunch of cars then held off the likes of Mike Carlson, Nick Panitzke, Justin Mullikan and Brad Powell for the big win. Sam Niles, the son of Andy, of the famous Niles racing family, also recorded his 1st ever main event win as he took the 15 lap Sportsman Feature on the night. Niles was as smooth as I've seen him in his career and it resulted in the huge win over Steve Weber and Dan Gilster...You just never know for sure of the stories to be told if you hang around the pit area (Too?) long after the races have ended. On this night it was from the Carlson end of the pit area, and from Tom who of course returned to racing this year. It seems like everyone named Carlson has raced and this tale is inclusive of brothers Tom, Tim and Steve. According to Tom, "Tim was kind of the instigator, and one night he was looking at my car and said, you need more rear weight. So having to quickly come up with something and get out and make the race, I grabbed a jack and we attached that to the rear of the car. I don't know if it helped because Steve came up, passed me and won the race. We were in the pits afterward and Steve comes up to me and says sure, you had to use MY jack to put on the back of your car!" More tales to come from that long (Neck) night at the track! In the quote of the column department, the above was a story not a single quote, it comes from Cole Howland who nearly pulled off a Feature win in the 2nd 20 lap main August 18th at Lax Speedway. "Who knows if I could have gotten him, (Nick Panitzke) if I didn't run into the wall." Howland finished 2nd...The Dick Trickle Memorial Project group will be on hand as part of the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour, Dick Trickle Classic at Tomah-Sparta Speedway Sunday afternoon, September 16th. The group is reportedly on the homestretch of their financial drive to complete the Memorial in Dick's hometown of Rudolph, WI.
Have to again remind everyone of the Champions Reunion coming up Sunday, October 7th as part of the huge Oktoberfest Racing weekend at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. This is the 10th Annual event and this year's Special guests are Tom Reffner and Mike Miller. Anyone, however, that was a past Champion in any Division of racing, any series at any track or an Oktoberfest Feature winner, as long as they haven't raced in the past three years is eligible to attend. There will be food and beverage served along with a whole lot of mostly true racing stories to be told. Contact ye-olde event organizer dale@starmakermultimedia.com or at 608-783-5827, or at the Champions Reunion 10 FACEBOOK page. Event is being hosted by Starmaker Multimedia. We will get you on a list at the front gate on that Sunday for admittance to the show. There will also be a number of old time restored race cars on hand at the show as well as memorabilia from back in the day. To top it all off, fans with a Sunday ticket to the Oktoberfest races will be admitted free!
And looking back in time on May 29th, 1964, it was Dave Marcis winning the first ever Feature race at the new Tomah-Sparta Speedway, Tomah, WI. Following Marcis at the finish were Marlin Walbeck, Augie Winkleman, Dick Trickle, John McFaul and Marv Marzofka. Semi-Feature honors went to "Dago" Louie Vetrone who was followed by Don Larson and Loren Iverson. The Non-Winners Dash went to Art Link. Heat race winners were Jerry Bond, Wayne Kittleson, Homer Spink and Dick Schultz. Fast time went to Walbeck in his 1957 Chevy, at 16.66 seconds around the 1/4 mile oval. 42 cars turned out for the event. On July 24th, 1964 it was Dick Trickle winning the Feature race at Tomah-Sparta Speedway. Trickle in his 1958 Ford bested Marlin Walbeck, Marv Marzofka, Lyle Nabbefeldt, Ken Pancratz and Dave Field.
Semi-Feature honors went to Nelson Drinkwine over Gary Kneisley and Ray Hoffman. Consolation race laurels went to Francis Kelly. Heat race winners were Howie Kittleson, Loren Iverson, Don Larson and Walbeck. Fast time went to Marzofka at 16:71 seconds. 42 cars raced on the night. On Friday night, August 5th, 1966, it was Dick Trickle in his 1963 Ford Galaxie winning the 30 lap Feature race at Tomah-Sparta Speedway. Tom Reffner placed second. The Semi-Feature was won by Bob Millis, with Marv Marzofka setting fast time at 15:75 seconds. Thanks to Jim Cleveland and all the research he has done for the above information.
Dale's Pics...The 1958 Ford of # 99 Dick Trickle on his hauler. (Bob Bergeron photo.) 1st ever winner at Tomah-Sparta, 1964, Dave Marcis. (Marg/Farrar photos) Francis Kelly # -1. Dick Trickle also drove this car. Probably when the Kelly/Trickle combination began as they both raced it at Tomah-Sparta Speedway back in the day. (Bob Bergeron photo) #19 Eve Fox and #91, Marv Marzofka both prolific winners at Tomah-Sparta Speedway back in the 1960s. Marg/Farrar photos.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2018 August
Fake News! Fake News! This spoken on condition of anonymity to protect the idiots that will spout off about something but not admit to whom they are!
Not here though, we, I, Dale, speak words of truth. We do embellish a bit once in awhile, but I am not anonymous, I am who I say I am and identify myself when I speak. Consequently you can believe by the name above that this is the truth, and nothing but the truth....OK, enough of that. I think you get the message. But it does get old reading something and not knowing if it is true or not because people want to remain in the shadows. Today's World I guess.
You can believe that this scribe did get to some races here recently though, and will describe to the best of his honest ability what happened!
Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., held a Central Wisconsin Racing Association, as presented by Smiley's Old Time Diner race here July 6th and extremely close finishes in both 30 lap main events were the order of the day. Jeff Weinfurter who is getting into a very competitive groove as of late captured the first 30 lap main just edging out fast closing Mark Mackesy and Darren Jackson. Darek Gress and Frank Nitzke had their own battle going and weren't far behind the leaders finishing 4th and 5th. The 2nd 30 Lap Feature saw a nose to tail, side by side battle between Weinfurter and Gress for over 1/2 the race with Weinfurter seemingly going on to win and sweep the program. On the last lap, coming out of the 4th corner however, Gress somehow found enough bite on the extreme high side and beat Weinfurter to the line by a scant foot! Mark Mackesy had a shot at the win, but barring a power drive right through the middle of the two leaders which would have caused a king-sized, NASCAR type wreck, chose not to and settled for 3rd. Great two groove, side by side racing with a very equal field of cars has been the norm on the Tour, and almost all are attributing it to the big truck, recap exploding on the Interstate, tire being used in competition. Gave you a second to comprehend that last sentence, as exploding recap is definitely Fake News! Actually, the tire being used is the Towel City Racing Tire. It is rubber capped on a Hoosier tire casing. How does that differ from extremely soft rubber being capped on a Hoosier casing? Difference is softer Hoosier tires generally wear out too quickly making for too much single file racing. Towel City tire is hard compound, no doubt about it, but wears like iron and can be raced competitively over and over. That truthfully, is a good thing I Dale P. Danielski believe.
Caught another CWRA Stars to Legends Tour event at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., presented by Mr. Mark Smiley's Old Time Diner, from friendly downtown Hancock, WI., here July 21st, as the Marlin Walbeck Classic was held. Marlin in his day was one hell of a racer, winning everything, everywhere on both dirt and asphalt surfaces. Marlin once told me, "We race 6 times a week, and then work on the car on Monday to go racing again" Think about that once. Six days out of the week being able to race, and in Walbeck's case it was pretty much in North/Central Wisconsin. You can't race six times now days in two months! (Embellishment alert not Fake News) Walbeck was a carpenter by trade but for a number of summers, but put bread on the table racing. I just think that is an unbelievably impressive thing.
Impressive was the 19 CWRA Super Late race cars on hand to honor Walbeck, a new high for the Touring group. They put on another great show, and this time around it was two new winners in victory lane. Feature race lengths were 30 laps each honoring Walbeck who used that number throughout his career and in the first, it was Rookie of the year candidate in CWRA Touring competition, Jesse Bernhagen taking the win. Bernhagen makes no bones about the fact he gets around the Dells track, having won in other Divisions there, but the CWRA victory topped the cake. Even more impressive is Bernhagen's win came in what would be classified as a Limited Late Model type race car. A Limited kicks the butts of the rest of the field! That will only help in encouraging others with those cars to join the fun racing with the "Super" guys and not only competing, but being able to win! The Towel City Racing Tire has done the most in terms of equalizing the competition and it has helped in that 'Tour rules are set up to accommodate numerous types of race cars.
Driving from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to the Dells track is an over 4 hour drive. After learning the races were rained out at the Norway Speedway, Norway, MI., where they normally compete, Dan Lindsley and Joey Pontbriand decided to make the trek South. It paid off in a big way for both with Lindsley winning the second 30 lap CWRA main and Pontbriand finishing 4th in both features.
You can probably tell I've had fun witnessing the action of this Tour in 2018, and that is genuine, no Fake News here!
Here and there...Saw the return of Ty Majeski to La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., here July 7th, and saw him totally annihilate the NASCAR Feature field. Starting around mid-pack, Majeski was already leading after a handful of laps. I thought since he hadn't raced at Lax. all year, he would have had new tires on for the event and be forced per track rules, to start at the rear of the field. Apparently he was able to use some tires from the rained out NASCAR 'Fest Feature from last year for this event, which put him in the invert for the race. I'd like to have seen him start 20 something on the field, he would have won anyway...Speaking of Majeski, with Tomah running the CWRA for a Super Late race Sunday afternoon, September 16th, will he show up? Would be a great opportunity for him to be able to say he's won at all paved asphalt tracks in Wisconsin running that type of car. Kind of mean on CWRA's part adding the "Super" LM event, especially since up to this point Majeski has won at all the tracks! Adding one more "Super" track will give Ty more to shoot for! and besides this is event is the Dick Trickle Classic, so a bit of prestige involved...Caught the July 14th show at Lax. as well and saw Cole Howland, who hasn't won in years, pick off the main event victory. Howland moved by returning to racing this year, Tom Carlson ,after a caution period and led the rest of the way. Love to see new winners, or those that haven't been there in a long time in victory lane...Speaking of new winners, it was good to see Tom Luethe, and Mark Challet, in Sportsman Features, and Taylor Dobbs in Thunderstox pick up their first ever main event wins in those Divisions in the last several weeks at Lax. Speedway...Nick Panitzke got cited for a rules infraction awhile back and with the loss of points, appeared to be out of the NASCAR Late Model, Lax. Speedway, track title race. Steve Carlson however got nailed for an infraction here recently and he too lost points for the night. Suddenly things have tightened up, but wait, Carlson won both the Annual Fair race Features right after the DQ and appears to be on his way to another Championship...The July 6th CWRA Stars to Legends Tour race at Marshfield Motor Speedway served as a Memorial event for long time Women Concerned for Auto Racing member Sue Bednarski who passed away here recently. WCAR to this day is still a big supporter of racing and helps tremendously in putting on the 'Tour events... Hard to believe it's August, but that means we are planning for the Annual Champions Reunion as part of Oktoberfest Racing Weekend, Sunday, October 7th. And this year, get this, special guests will be Mike Miller, here for his second visit, and Tom Reffner. Ok, they both have been here before, but this year Reffner has agreed to drive the John Gilbertson AMC Javelin in the Vintage race on Sunday of 'Fest! Miller, who won't compete due to having a gripping the steering wheel and turning left ailment, will nonetheless help the cause by changing Tom's tires during the race. That task should be a bit easier as the race is only 20 laps and drivers won't have to pit to change tires! The DCA, Dan Navrestad restored, Mike Miller driven Camaro from back in the 1980s race car will also be on display during the reunion.
In the quote of the column department, it's UP drivers Dan Lindsley and Joey Pontbriand commenting on their visit to Dells Raceway Park. "Norway Speedway, (Norway, MI.) where we normally race, rained out early so we thought, let's head to the 'Dells and race." The over 4 hour drive to the track ended up turning out pretty well for the two, with Lindsley winning a main and Pontbriand placing in the top 5 in both Feature events... Next column coverage should feature events at Golden Sands Speedway, (CWRA Stars to Legends Tour) at Lax, Speedway, as well as maybe a dirt race somewhere thrown in. Stay tuned!
In looking back in history, on June 30th, 1966 it was Marlin Walbeck winning the 30 lap Feature race at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. Following Walbeck were Dave Field, Jim Back, Lyle Nabbefeldt and Ev Fox. On June 19th, 1999, it was Tom Reffner winning the 25 lap, rain shortened to 14 laps, Feature at Marshfield Super Speedway, Marshfield, WI. On May 22nd, 1993 it was Mike Miller winning the Georgia 250 at Lanier Raceway, Braselton, GA.,
Dale's Pics...#28 Jesse Bernhagen and # 79 Dan Lindsley win Marlin Walbeck Classic 30 lap Features at Dells Raceway Park, July 21st in CWRA Stars to Legends Tour action. Tom Reffner will drive a nearly identical looking Javelin compared to the one pictured, the original 1974 AMC Javelin, that Tom drove to 67 Feature wins in 1975 in the Vintage race as part of Oktoberfest Racing Weekend October, 7th, 2018. The #18 originally driven by Mike Miller to a big 300 lap win at the Minnesota State Fair, Camaro, restored by Dan Navrestad will be on display at the Champions Reunion as part of Oktoberfest, October 7th. Miller will also be on hand as part of the Champions Reunion.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
2018 July
The Central Wisconsin Racing Association held another Stars to Legends Tour event here at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., June 16th, this one honoring past racing hero, Lyle Nabbefeldt.
Nabbefeldt was one of the original stars of racing in Wisconsin, dating back to the early 1960s. Before stars like Trickle, Back, Reffner, Marzofka and Detjens arrived on the scene there was Nabbefeldt traveling the State and winning at numerous venues. Lyle never had much in the way of money to back his efforts, but none the less made do with what ever he had and carved out a nice career in racing as a result. Often times, Nabbefeldt would race other drivers cars if he had nothing of his own to compete with. He did well approaching the sport that way as well. It really wasn't so much about wins for Nabbefeldt though, although he took more than his fair share of main events, but the comradery of competing and helping his fellow competitors become better people and drivers. Consequently, Nabbefeldt was one of the most popular racers of his time. Unfortunately, Lyle met his untimely death while taking time trials at the Dells race track in 1973. Exactly what happened on that day was debated for a long time, was it a stuck throttle? Did a heart attack occur to create that scenario? Was it some other mechanical issue that forced Nabbefeldt hard into the number 1&2 wall where he was killed instantly? No one knows for sure, but an event in his honor continues his legacy in racing and that more than anything, was the prize here for drivers racing on this Saturday night.
The name Mackesy has history in racing as Bob competed on the CWRA circuit for many years. It was almost inevitable that his son Mark would do the same at some point, and now competing, is considered one of the veterans of the short track scene. Mark who had never won much of anything at the Dells track picked a good time to do just that as he won both 55 lap Features held on the night in honor of Lyle Nabbefeldt. The number 55 was a popular one for Lyle in his racing days, thus the two Feature events of that length. Mackesy was fast throughout the night and proved he had the winning combination by methodically passing cars in both Features, ultimately finding himself first at the Checkered flag. It wasn't that he didn't have good competition, Darek Gress, an up and coming driver tried his best but came up just short in both main events. Jeff Weinfurter was in position to win as well but had to settle for 3rd and 2nd in the Feature races. The racing was close and all in all very entertaining, something Lyle Nabbefeldt would certainly have appreciated if he'd been here to witness it. And that, after all, is what it should be all about.
Here and there...Finishing order in 55 lap main event one at Dells Raceway Park found Mackesy first followed by Gress, Weinfurter, Frank Nitzke, Rachal Kallas, Monte Gress, Darren Jackson, Derrick Van Dreel, Brian Henry and Tod Stenson. 55 lap main number two had Mackesy 1st followed by Weinfurter, D. Gress, M. Gress, Jackson, Jesse Pockscyk, Kallas, Stenson, Nitzke and Dave Neitzke...The Towel City Racing Tire required in CWRA competition continues to be a huge money saver for drivers as some are still racing on tires that are two years old!..Nick Panitzke got back on the winning track here at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., as he won the NASCAR Late Model Feature Saturday, June 23rd. It came down to the last 4 laps to determine the winner as Nick Clements put up a gallant fight only to have Panitzke and Steve Carlson pass him to finish one and two. Clements wound up 3rd and was followed by Mike Carlson, Michael Beamish, early leader Mike Ehde, Cole Howland, Devin Schmidt, Tom Carlson and Brent Kirchner...Brian Hesselberg who is racing a limited schedule at Lax. Speedway this year looked like a main event winner in the Sportsman Division. He came up two laps short however, as Chris Weber made the pass for the lead and took the win...Adam Moore won the Thunderstox Feature with Garrett Thicke taking the Hornet main...The CWRA Stars to Legends Tour, Jim Back Memorial race was held at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., May 26th and it was Jeff Weinfurter taking the win in the first Feature, 30 laps, over Darren Jackson and Mark Mackesy. Mackesy turned the tables in the 2nd main, 31 laps, winning over Weinfurter and Jackson. The combined total Feature length, 61, represented the number Back raced with for his entire racing career. Next up for the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour will be at Marshfield Motor Speedway, July 6th and at Dells Raceway Park, July 21st. The Dells race will be the Marlin Walbeck Classic, honoring Walbeck who was one of the first true super stars of Wisconsin short track racing. The event will feature two 30 lap main events, 30 being the number Walbeck raced with...
In the quote of the column department it was Mark Mackesy commenting on his twin wins in the Nabbefeldt Memorial race. "I'd really never won anything here. Had a 2nd in qualifying back in the '90s, but that was it. I thought I could win one of the Features here today, but to win both, that was really special."
And in the looking back category, on September 15th, 1963 it was Lyle Nabbefeldt winning the Feature at Dells Motor Speedway. On May 14th, 1966 it was Lyle Nabbefeldt winning the 30 lap Feature at Dells Motor Speedway. Following Nabbefeldt at the finish were Dave Marcis, Dick Trickle, Jere O'Day, and John Mc Namara. On June 22nd, 1968, it was Jim Back winning the 35 lap Feature race at Dells Motor Speedway. Back also won the 4th heat race.
Dale's Pics...Bones, the Throttle Popper, Lyle Nabbefeldt was a popular racer. He drove this #55s Camaro in 1972. Another number Nabbefeldt made famous, X. (Bob Bergeron photo) Jim Back wins in one of his famous #61 race cars, this one sponsored by Larry Wehrs Chevrolet.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2018 June
Although grudgingly, the weather has cooperated enough to at least get in a couple race events here recently.
The Annual Thaw race was held at the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., on April 28th and fair but cool weather greeted fans for the Saturday afternoon event. Racing on Saturday afternoon is still a relatively unproven commodity, but a very nice crowd was on hand for this the second running of the race on that day of the week. Super Late Model race cars were the top billed class and a field of 22 took the green flag for the 101 lap Feature race. Although it took awhile, as Ryan Farrell jumped to a big lead, Wyatt Brooks eventually made it look easy as he took the lead about midway through and cruised to the big win. M.G. Gajewski tried to make things interesting but had to settle for second at the finish. Next in line were Justin Mondiek, Jordan Thiel, and Jeremy Lepak. Farrell, who had the dominant car early faded to a 17th place finish. One notable racing on the day was Derek Kraus, having time away from his NASCAR K & N schedule. Kraus had a good run going but an incident involving a car he was trying to lap, forced the youngster to the back of the field. Not wanting to work his way back through the pack, Kraus parked his machine ending his day in 18th position.
All in all, a fun day at the old home track and more visits are forthcoming.
It was good to see Greg Oliver greeted by excellent weather for his track promoter debut at the Tomah-Sparta Speedway, Tomah, WI., here Sunday afternoon, April 29th. A tad over 30 race cars were on hand for the show and some competitive racing was seen by all. The top billed class of car, the Modified Division, saw Paul Brown pick up the 20 lap Feature win. Brown was followed to the checkered flag by Denny Schott and Jay Potter. One incident in the Hobby Stock Feature found Bill Schott smacking the back stretch wall doing significant damage to his race car. Schott parked his machine in the infield content to watch the rest of the race from there, when suddenly a whole lot of pointing toward the backstretch began taking place. Here, hot brake parts and/or sparks from Schott's disabled car had ignited the grass on the other side of the wall! Schott himself ran across the back straightaway and with nothing else to use, tried to get the fire out with the top half of his drivers uniform. The attempt was courageous, but for the most part futile, and fortunately a fire extinguisher arrived shortly thereafter and the fire was put out. Overall a good day at the Tomah-Sparta track and hopefully Oliver can continue to build confidence in racers and fans of the type of show he runs with interest growing throughout the season.
Here and there...Other main event winners at the "Thaw" race included Jason "The Shark" Stark in the Super Stock Division, Kyle Gennett in the Pure Stocks, Kaleb Hurless in 4 Cylinder Stocks, and Tim Hintz in Outlaw 4 Cylinders...Main event winners in other action at the Tomah track included Devin Schmidt in Sportsman, Phillip Wuesthoff in Hobby Stocks, Patrick Thicke in Midwest Dash Series cars, Jim Smith in the Hornets and Matt Moore in the 6 shooters class...Much discussion is already taking place pertaining to the Dick Trickle Classic race, a CWRA Stars to Legends Tour race, that will take place at Tomah-Sparta Speedway on Sunday afternoon, September 16th. The race for Super Late Model type race cars is expected to draw a field of 20 cars or better on a day set for honoring the legendary short track driver, Dick Trickle...Rainy weather continued to plague the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., as the show for May 12th was washed away. An excellent field of cars was on hand for the event including 28 NASCAR Late Models. All for naught on this night however...Should have results from the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour race that is set to take place at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., May 26th in our next column. Over 30 drivers have indicated they plan to race at some point in 2018 on the Tour...
The CWRA Stars to Legends Tour, Albert Getzloff Memorial took place here at Golden Sands Speedway, Friday, May 18th, with experience and youth serving notice they will be contenders in 2018. Veteran Mark Mackesy took the win in the 1st 30 lap Feature race with Darek Gress coming home the victor in main event two. Following Mackesy in the first Feature were Darek Gress, Darren Jackson, Derrick Van Dreel and Jeff Weinfurter. The 2nd Feature found Mackesy, Jesse Bernhagen, Weinfurter, and Jim Sauter, Jr., chasing Gress home who scored his first ever CWRA Stars to Legends Tour win... Sad to hear of the passing of racing pioneer Ken Nelson. Ken was from the 1950s early 60's era of racing competing on both dirt and paved tracks mostly in Western Wisconsin. Ken always had some very interesting stories to tell about that bygone era of the sport and I'm glad I was the recipient of many of them...
And in the looking back category, back on July 7th, 1967, it was Marv Marzofka winning the Feature race at the Tomah-Sparta Speedway. Marzofka piloting a 1961 Ford fought off Rich Somers, Bud Schroeder and Jim Back for the win...On June 28th, 1968, it was Dick Trickle winning the feature race in his 1967 Ford Fairlane at Tomah-Sparta Speedway. Trickle was followed in the main by Larry Baumel and Everett Fox...On July 12th, 1968 it was Ev Fox in a 1957 Chevy winning the Feature race at Tomah-Sparta Speedway. Following Fox were Bill Wirtz, Larry Baumel, and Tom Schaller...On July 14th, 1968 it was Ron Beyer winning the 30 lap Feature in his 1967 Chevelle at the Golden Sands Speedway. Jere Bredl finished 2nd followed by Dick Schultz and Jim Back. On August 7th, 1968, it was Dick Trickle winning the feature race at the North La Crosse Speedway. Following Trickle at the stripe were Pat Griffin and Jim Back.
Dale's Pics...Wyatt Brooks wins the "Thaw" at Golden Sands Speedway. Paul Brown, the Modified Feature winner at Tomah-Sparta 2018 season opener. Ev Fox #19 posing next to his Moose Peterson backed Chevy. Marv Marzofka #91 racing in 1968.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
2018 May
It was a good day here April 22nd, 2018.
First and foremost, racing action finally got underway at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., after three big snow storms tried to put the kabosh on any outdoor activity for the month. With sunny skies, temps in the '60s, racing action commenced with plenty of shiny new race cars on hand to do battle, some with names we remember from the past and others now making their names known in the sport.
NASCAR Late Models were the top division on the bill and 29 of them turned out for the Frostbuster race here at the 5/8ths mile paved oval track. It appears this year will be a repeat of last year at least as far as contenders go, with last season's track champion, the up and coming Late Model racer, Nick Panitzke and second in points, seasoned veteran Steve Carlson starting out the day one and two in qualifying. As it turned out, that would be the finishing order in the 25 lap main event on the day as well, as Panitzke took the top spot on lap 5 and stayed ahead of Carlson the balance of the race. Following the two at the finish was Jacob Goede, Mike Carlson, Brent Kirchner and Jerimy Wagner. A first lap skirmish between Ty Reedy and Bobby Wilberg really shook up the line up for the restart and several top runners suffered damage. Panitzke and Carlson were actually forced to take evasive action winding through the grass and snow emerging relatively unscathed. Others weren't so lucky as former track Champion, Brad Powell suffered damage but returned to place 10th. Reedy, due to the initial contact and eventual bout with the wall, was definitely out with major damage. On the restart, Cole Howland took the lead, but his race was short lived as he scraped the wall on lap 12 putting him out for the day. After that things went reasonably smooth and no other major consequences on the track occurred.
In the other featured divisions of racing, it was Chris Weber taking the 15 lap Sportsman Feature win over fast qualifier Steve Bachman and Tom Luethe. Thunderstox main event action found perennial winner and champion, Adam Moore first followed by Joey Johnson and Jason Bolster. Street Stocks were also on the card and it was Clayton Haessig taking that win followed by Chris Larson and Matt Moore. The Hornet Feature winner was Brandon Lemoine followed by Nate Towner and Jake Schomers.
Action in all the divisions was competitive and with temps jumping right into summer like highs we can anticipate some heated battles the rest of the way!
Here and there...One of those drivers we mentioned on hand from past racing, was Kevin Nuttleman, competing in the NASCAR Late Model Division. Nuttleman had a commitment to race the Justin Zmyewski car in last Years Oktoberfest event, but with that being rained out competed here today. Nuttleman, if as he indicated has competed in his last race as of today, did not end it all on too high of a note. Mechanical issues forced the popular racer who has won 106 Main events through the years at the track out of the race on lap 19 relegating him to a 22nd place finish. Scraping the wall at some point in the event, Nuttleman recalled, "Yea, we got racing hard with Tony (Bagstad) and I got a little high.) Noting the damage on the side of the car, Nuttleman added, "The number has to be taken off anyway (From #NJ4 to Zymewsky #97) we just sped up the process!" Always entertaining on and off the track, Nuttleman is leaving the sport with his sense of humor intact...Bobby Wilberg, many time champion driver indicated he plans to race 8 or so times at Lax. Speedway this year. "We can't get enough shows in at Madison (MIS, Oregon, WI.) to have a chance at the NASCAR Wisconsin State Championship, so we are racing here too.) Wilberg with his very successful career in racing didn't make many friends on Sunday as both Ty Reedy, Feature race wreck involving Wilberg, and Adam Degenhardt, heat race contact with Wilberg, both pointed the finger of fault at Bobby...Speaking of old time veteran drivers, it was a battle royal for the top position in heat race number two between the oldest Late Model driver at the track, Don "Thunder Turner", and the second oldest at the track, back in racing after 18 years, Tom Carlson. The two were side by side coming out of the 4th turn heading toward the checkered flag when Carlson went a bit too wide allowing Turner to cross the finish line first by just inches! The 130 some years of life's experiences between the two most certainly had something to do with their running up front...Carlson also had some others in the field a bit nervous prior to the start of a race as he was weaving back and forth on the racetrack. According to Carlson, "I was wondering what the car was doing and when the tires were going to come in." Ah, yes, a great way to set the tone with fellow drivers heading into another race season...Melissa Rusch is competing in a NASCAR Late Model this season, a car that Cam Dezelske drove last year. She placed a respectable 19th out of the 28 feature starters in her debut...Tony Bagstad, another one of those veteran drivers returning to racing, plans to turn his NASCAR Late Model over to his son this year at the track. "I didn't want to throw him to the Wolves here today, so we'll get him going later on."We see where Ty Majeski returned home to take the Icebreaker 100 at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., Sunday April 22nd. Following Majeski after 100 laps were Dalton Zehr and Skylar Holzhausen...Hoping to check out events coming up at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., Saturday, April 28th, The "Thaw", and at Tomah-Sparta Speedway, Tomah, WI., Sunday afternoon, April 29th. The Tomah track is under new promotion with Greg Oliver at the helm for 2018. Oliver has scheduled a Super Late Model race at the track for September 16th, the first such type of event in over 20 years. Adding bang for the buck for this show, is the fact it will be a Central Wisconsin Racing Association "Stars to Legends Tour" race honoring Dick Trickle...May racing will find us at the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour, Albert Getzloff Memorial event to be held at Golden Sands Speedway May 18th. That will be the Tour opener for the group. Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., will also be having a Stars to Legends Tour race on May 26th...
And in the quote of the column department; "I think it's fair game being able to race that way" Kyle Busch describing his bump and run tactic at the Bristol, TN., Cup race here recently that resulted in leader Kyle Larson being forced into no mans land and Busch motoring on to the win. Really?
And in the looking back category, back on October 7th, 2010, it was Brad Powell winning the 40 lap Feature for La Crosse Late Models as part of the Oktoberfest racing weekend. Following Powell were, Steve Carlson, Brent Kirchner, Shawn Pfaff and Kevin Nuttleman. . Looking back to July 6th, 2002, it was Kevin Nuttleman winning the 25 Lap Late Model Feature at Lax. Speedway. Following Nuttleman were Charlie Menard, Tony Bagstad, Todd Korish and Tim Nelson. And back on April 28th, 1990 it was Nick Carlson winning the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway nosing out Kevin Nuttleman for the win. Heat race wins went to Johnny Spaw, Tim Nelson and Nuttleman. Terry Miller won the Beer Stox Feature.
Dale's Pics from the past...Kevin Nuttleman racing at Lax Speedway in 2009. Brad Powell #43 racing at Lax. Speedway in 2010. Dick Trickle in his 1963 Ford races Dave Marcis in his 1957 Chevy in 1966. (Bob Bergeron photo.) Tom Carlson #55 at Lax. Speedway April 22nd. Tony Bagstad #27 racing at Lax. Speedway.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
2018 April
Men and Women, Boys and Girls, it's What if time! If you hang tight you'll see just what that means.
What if racing and we're talking on paved short tracks (Dirt is quite another thing and deserves a conversation in itself) at least as we know it here in the Midwest, and for sure in Wisconsin, went back to three Divisions of racing, Late Models, Sportsman and Hobbystock? Just like it used to be when everyone knew what that meant and crowds came out in large numbers to witness them put their racing machines through their paces.
What if technology hadn't totally overwhelmed everything we touch these days and over complication and the expense that has gone with it went back to simplicity, availability and fun for everyone? This would really be cool as it applies to racing. More people racing, more people watching more for race track owners to promote!
What if promoters knew that the amount of promotion of their product via what used to be the norm, as in newspaper, radio, posters, direct mail and some TV, medias advertising, would prove to be the difference in whether they had a successful show or not?
And, along those lines, what if tracks got back to promoting who would be racing at their speedway, the "Stars" of the show, would more interest be created and a larger fan following the result? Of course it would.
What if tracks got back to running those radio ads that were an absolute magnet to getting you to attend an event? Sunday! Sunday! Sunday! I loved that stuff, it was almost as much of an adrenaline rush as the event itself!
What if FACEBOOK and all the other social media madness didn't exist? HOORAY! Now we can go back to giving Dan and the Midwest Racing Connection more business. And really, are the folks accessing these sites with their hand held devices coming out to the shows? The newer crowd is a small percentage of this in my opinion. The older crowd, the majority of whom are attending, well, they may have the device but they already know about the event.
What if drivers could race 5 days a week and on occasion twice on Sunday would anyone do it? Could they make a living at it as many did years ago?
What if you could race without the absolute need of obtaining sponsorship? You actually could do that years ago and many did., see above. Sponsorship should be the icing on the cake, promoting the individual, or company, not a necessity just to compete as is the case today.
What if we came up with "Throwback Tour 1981" would more drivers again be competing since they didn't have to choose from 16 different engine combinations?
What if there was a one tire rule, with that particular tire being minimally affected by softening/treating in terms of speed and durability. Would it eliminate the need to use these products? What if said tire was cheaper than anything else out there, would tracks on their own or through a sanctioning body adopt such a tire rule? Answer: No. Not enough of them would be sold and back gate promoting would be severely compromised.
What if long time racer Tom Carlson decided to make a comeback, would he win a Feature event? It appears he is and yes he will!
What if Super Late Model race cars went back to a more basic shock absorber, something you didn't have to spend hours upon hours messing with and refining to gain a trillosecond on the competition. Would the time saved allow more drivers to compete in more events?
What if racing your way through the ranks based on talent got you to the top level of the sport instead of writing the big check which insured your spot in the seat? Would the caliber of racing be better than what we see today? Would wreck to win become a thing of the past?
OK. Let's say at $150 or so a tire and we buy 13 sets of them, $7,800 worth, should I just say to hell with it and not even try to compete against that? Even with a good purse pay-out who makes money with this type of investment and what would even money placing in the race be in an event like this? Think we know (See above mention of back gate money making)
And what if this scribe took his shut the hell up pill at this point?
OK, that wraps up our "What if" presentation for this time around. Most if not all of aforementioned would probably be considered by the experts in the industry not viable for this day and age. But, it is at least food for thought until we get racing here in the area.
Here and there...Hearing that La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., has over 90 cars planning to compete at the big 5/8 paved oval in 2018. Should be a fun year at the local track... Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., appears in these parts to have the earliest season opening, with The Annual Icebreaker 100 taking place at the 1/3 mile paved speedway on Sunday, April 8th....Lax Fairgrounds will get their season underway on Sunday, April, 22nd with the Frostbuster...Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., has the "The Thaw" scheduled for Saturday, April 28th...With an Icebreaker a Frostbuster and a Thaw, aren't we going to have a lot of water around? Hopefully not so much we can't get the shows in...Tomah Sparta Speedway, Tomah, WI., under the leadership of Greg Oliver will open its season with a 6 Division of racing card Sunday, April 29th. Interesting to note the only Super Late Model race at the track for the year will be a CWRA Stars to Legends Tour event on September 16th. It's going to be excitement galore for this race as Super Late Models have not raced at the 1/4 mile paved speedway in over 20 years...
And in the looking back category, back on April 26th, 1990, it was Steve Carlson taking the NASCAR Winston Racing Series opener at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI. Carlson came from the last starting position to take the win over nick Carlson. It was the largest crowd on hand ever to see a regular season event at the track...Back on April 22nd, 1990, it was Tom Reffner winning the 30 lap Feature race at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI. Allen Check placed 2nd and was followed by Bryan Reffner...Racing June 2, 1990 took place at the Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI., with the Lyle Nabbefeldt memorial race. Tom Reffner won the 1st 55 lap Feature followed by Doug Herbst, Brian Holzhausen, Pete Moore, Monte Gress and Rick Wateski. The 2nd 55 lap race was rained out which made Reffner the Nabbefeldt memorial Champion...
Dale's Pics from the past... Tom Carlson #51 racing back in 1990. Will he be making his return in 2018? Championship winning driver #93 Rick Wateski racing in 1990. #29 Doug Herbst racing in 1990.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
2018 March
Yes, we have had this conversation before, but the wreck to win mentality in NASCAR racing needs to be put to pasture!
I don't like to continually bash NASCAR, but they are easy prey when it comes to doing things the way you shouldn't.
I still look forward to the first racing of each new year, and that means Speedweeks activity at Daytona. After watching this years Cup Daytona 500 I'm ready to say that's enough for NASCAR National for 2018. Again, when did it become acceptable to wreck someone to get a win? The way I was brought up on the sport was you passed who was in front of you, and if you couldn't do it cleanly you settled for a position behind them. How many more times are we going to hear, I hated that I hit him, but I had to, to win. What! Had to? It's almost to the point of being nauseating. This year's Cup Daytona 500 was again case in point. Austin Dillon hated that he had to hit Aric Almirola to take the lead and ultimately the win in this years Daytona 500. Almirola gets wrecked from the contact within a lap of victory and Dillon wins the Daytona 500. So because it's the Daytona 500 it's justifiable. Wrong! Sadly, it isn't just races of this magnitude that have lead to the wreck to win mentality, it has become widespread and entered the short track World at all levels of competition. I'm of the opinion anymore that if it is NASCAR endorsed, and/or condoned it is a really bad deal and not good for racing. Following their lead here is really affecting the sport in a very negative way. Interesting to note I saw an interview with Dillon where he admitted he was willing to become the bad guy as others previous driving the #3 car. He sure accomplished that in this year's Daytona 500. Should we now call him Villain Dillon?
Here and there...It was good to see Natalie Decker do well in ARCA competition this year at Daytona. Again though, just finishing these races practically insures a good finish as the wrecks eliminate a lot of the competition...See where Wisconsin racers Ty Majeski and Derek Kraus did some Speedweek racing at the short track New Smyrna Speedway. Majeski did manage to pick up a win at 'Smyrna while Kraus was consistent throughout including a 4th place finish in the NASCAR K&N Series race there...Upper Midwest racer Cole Anderson dominated the Pro Late Model Division at 'Smyrna. Will be interesting to see what that translates to in Midwest racing come this summer of 2018... So it's the biggest race of the year for whatever you are racing at Daytona and a great opportunity to showcase your skills, so where was the Roush/Ty Majeski entry in something? I hope this kid isn't getting hung out to dry, he has talent and deserves a better shot than he is getting. We're all getting older here, Dale Earnhardt Jr.? Kyle Busch? Why don't you get this guy in something...The element of speed really is impressive when you first see how fast these racers are going on Super Speedways. It was a big WOW! factor when I first witnessed this at Daytona way back when. But really, it's that speed that's ruining the racing. Realistically, how fast do you need to go? Over 200 mph at Daytona with whatever NASCAR racecar package they are racing with has made it to where these drivers are out of control the entire race. It isn't a race, it's survival. If they were slowed down 30 mph but could race with each other and put on a good, clean racing show would anyone notice the speed difference? I doubt it...Is it just me or are the CUP cars dog tracking around the race track again? That just looks weird, and it looks a lot like some years back where the two car drafting chains were popular. I don't like the dog track thing but I thought the slingshot moves they could make then were pretty cool! And, having to watch the 500 on the tube it sure was annoying watching more ads than race laps toward the end. Why can't they do there side by side thing near races end? Do these company's with ads at the end expect me to endorse their products when they are interfering with what I tuned in for in the first place...a race!
And in the looking back category, Jere O' Day, Central Wisconsin racing hotshoe, who recently passed away, was the victor in the first 5 of 7 stock car races held at the all new paved Griffith Park Speedway of Wisconsin Rapids, WI. O' Day won the first ever stock car 25 lap Feature race there on July 17th, 1960 and was followed by Don Ruder, Ken Pancratz and G. Hall. The semi-Feature also went to O' Day followed by J. Gurnes and J. Detert. Heat race winners were John Moquin, Gus Winkleman and Ruder. O' Day set fast time around the 1/4 mile, flat paved oval. Looking back on August 6th, 1961, it was Jere O' Day winning the Feature race at Griffith Park Speedway. Following O' Day at the finish was Auggie Winkleman, Vic Kopacz, Marlin Walbeck and Ken Pancratz. Semi-Feature honors went to Ron Gagas followed by Irv Kurth, John Moquin and Mel Kuehl. The Consolation race winner was Glen Katzenberger followed by Larry Baumbeck and Harold Bertram. Heat race victors were Harold Gruenwald, Gagas, Mike Luebeck and O' Day. The Trophy Dash went to Jerry Duel with fast time honors garnered by Kopacz at 15:97 seconds. O' Day who raced on dirt at the Crowns Speedway of Wisconsin Rapids, WI., before Griffith opened won the Feature there on June 30th, 1955. O' Day was followed by Carl Buelow, Jack Dahlke, Ernie Dombrowski and Rudy Bandt. Don Ruder and Chet Sergo won the heat races while Bandt took the Semi-Feature. Looking back on May 9th, 1980 it was Mike Miller winning the Feature race at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI. Following Miller was Dick Trickle, Tom Reffner, Joe Krzykowski, Marv Marzofka and Jim Back. Semi-Feature winner was Gary Porter followed by Rich Bickle, Roy Bohm, Jim Dumdey and Vic Getzloff. Heat race winners were Bickle, Lyle Nowak and Reffner. The Dash went to Miller with Trickle setting fast time at 12:80 seconds around the 3/10ths mile oval. Looking back at June 25th, 1980 it was Harold Mueller winning the feature at the Tri-County Speedway of Colby, WI. Following Mueller around the slightly banked clay oval was Kerry Hanson, Chuck Abraham, Dave Bauer and Clarence Oertel. The Semi-Feature went to R.R Ashbeck. followed by Al Schulz and Ivan Fraaza. Heat race winners were Russ Weiler, Oertel and Mueller. The Dash winner was Abraham. Looking back to June 26th, 1999, it was Steve Holzhausen winning the 25 lap late Model Feature race. Following Holzhausen was Brad Powell, Mike Belling, Mike Koeneke, Paul Proksch and Kevin Nuttleman. The Semi-Feature went to Jim Hagel followed by Ken Christenson, Tom McClintock and Tim Nelson. Heat race winners were Jim Christenson, Marv Degarmo and Brent Kirchner. Dash winner was Holzhausen. The Sportsman main event winner was Blake Horstman. 36 Late Model cars participated in the program along with 44 Sportsman machines.
Dale's Pics from the past...The #74, a car Jere O' Day drove back in the day. The #18 Mike Miller Olds Cutlass as he raced it in 1980. A Steve Holzhausen racing machine, #78 from the year 2000. Gary Porter #78 in the former Dave Field raced Mustang. #19 Harold Mueller doing some pavement racing in the early '70s at the Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
2018 February
Some folks are probably gearing up for Speedweeks activity, and that was pretty common for this scribe for many years, but as the calendar will have it we will be forced to suffer through a non-racing winter and look forward to some springtime racing.
In looking through some of my old photo scrap books from Florida racing past, I'm still amazed how wild, and cool to me, some of the body work was on the dirt race cars during Speedweeks back in 1985. The "Wedge Late Models" were king at the time and as you'll see in the photos here some pretty creative rules interpretation was taking place. The Modified race cars that ventured down to Florida had a similar look about them. So who drew from whom to come up with all this creative thinking? Getting through the air was obviously becoming a big deal and these cars, (Photos shown, #112 Kevin Collins, #47, Doug Ingalls) certainly show that. Our visits to Jax Raceway, Jacksonville, FL., and Volusia County Speedway, Barberville, FL., is where we got a chance to see these guys race.
Looking at the other side of the ledger, asphalt racers at Speedweeks 1985, and it's about as boring looking as you can get. Apparently after going through some of the craziness in terms of radical body styles of the early 1980s, Ala, Balough, Hanley, Harvey etc., (Also see Jim Derhaag photo) it was time for the more fan perceived, identifiable, off the street stock type looking race cars. Case in point at New Smyrna Beach Fl., Speedway the Late Model race cars of #7, Derrick Cope and #31, Steve Grissom.
And then when we look at 1985 Late Model action here in the Midwest we see a combination of both looks in race car. A bit more open as in the Tom Reffner #88 race car, and definitely the more stock appearing #53 Scott Hansen car. Both are Chevy Camaros! Same deal with the #93 John Ziegler Ford Thunderbird and the Jim Weber #28 Chevy Camaro. Racing against each other same division, same year. Of course I've always been more partial to cars that to me look like race cars. I don't need to identify that car racing as being a Ford, Chevy, Pontiac, or whatever to appreciate it. But, that's old school me and what evolution through the years has dictated isn't exactly what I always like to see.
Closer to home, tracks and sanctioning groups are getting close to finalizing their schedules for the year and that includes the Central Wisconsin Racing Association, as it's "Stars To Legends Tour" will contest at least 10 events this year. That would be two more than in 2017 as steady growth has many, including fans and drivers alike, taking more notice of the group once again.
The track of choice in this area, La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., has released their schedule for 2018 and it looks like things will kick off with the Frostbuster race on Sunday afternoon, April 22nd. The regular, weekly season at Lax. gets underway on Saturday, May 12th. Last year's NASCAR Late Model Champion, Nick Panitzke has indicated he will be back to defend his title. Will Mr. Steve Carlson choose to return? We'll probably have to wait until Spring to find that out.
Jerry Auby has been working hard at getting everything organized with racing at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI. as well as the UMA promoters group events which he heads up. ARCA Midwest Tour action will find that Series with a 10 event schedule, while tracks in Wausau, Marshfield, and Plover are also showing tentative 2018 schedules. Greg Oliver having gotten a late start after obtaining the lease to run the paved track in Tomah, WI., is also ready to release a full schedule of racing for 2018. That slate is to include what is certain to be a very exciting event, The CWRA "Stars to Legends Tour" Super Late Models on September 16th. In what is being billed as a throwback to older days of racing the event will take place on a Sunday afternoon when no other Super Late Model events are taking place. Best case scenario, with most tracks finished with their regular seasons by then, maybe even a "Challenge" type event matching CWRA vs NASCAR drivers plus any others wanting to throw their hat in the ring to see if they can take the top prize could take place. A very interesting thought and/or concept to say the least!
As far as our travels for 2018, it's hard to pass up any of the racing here locally at La Crosse Fairgrounds, but handling publicity and marketing for CWRA will find us at those events in 2018 as well. Throw in some dirt racing at places like Mississippi Thunder Speedway, Fountain City, WI., and it will be an eventful season of racing.
Here and there...It will be an interesting season of NASCAR Cup racing without Jr., Earnhardt competing. What in the World are the folks down South going to do as most don't even know the majority of the rest of the field without Jr., in it...
And, looking back on April 24th, 1985 at Yellow River Speedway, Marshfield, WI., (Which later would become Marshfield Super Speedway and now Marshfield Motor Speedway) it was Kerry Hansen winning the Late Model Feature race over Leon Plank, M.J. Mc Bride, and Jerry Redetzke. The track having been carved out of an old gravel pit was a 1/2 mile clay oval. On April 28th, 1985 it was the Capital Super Speedway, (Now Madison International Speedway) Oregon, WI., opener which found Rich Bickle, Jr., winning the 25 lap Late Model Feature over Jim Back, Terry Baldry, Steve Holzhausen and Ted Musgrave. Back set fast time around the 1/2 mile paved oval at 18:854 seconds with the Dash win going to Holzhausen, and heat race victories to Jerry Davidson, Tom Reffner and Holzhausen. The Semi-Main winner was Davidson over Ken Reiser and Spike Lindly. Midget racing was also on the card with Dan Boorse taking the Feature win. Looking back to May 2nd, 1985 it was Rick Haase winning the Feature event at Wausau's State Park Speedway. Following Haase were Lyle Nowak, Tom Reffner, Perry Redeker and Jim Back. Semi-Feature winner was Bryan Reffner, with heat race victories going to Brian Shimkus, Larry Lepak and Tom Reffner. Dash winner was Greg Holzhausen with Fast Time set by Back at 14:543 seconds around the 1/4 mile paved oval. Looking back at action at Central State Speedway, Colby, WI., on June 7th, 1985 it was M.J. Mc Bride winning the 30 lap Feature. Following in order were Bill Lindner, Bill Herr, Chuck Buckbee, and Rory Tabor. Heat race winners were Rory Melbinger, Lindner and Pete Parker. Dash winner was Kerry Hanson while Clarence Oertel set fast Time around the 1/3 mile banked clay oval which these days finds Highway 29 running right through where the track used to be. As of this date in 1985, this scribe had gone to 35 race events. Wish I had that kind of energy these days!
In the quote of the column, it comes from long time racer in Central Wisconsin, Ed Colby, who was helping his son Dave, who was racing at an event in 1985 at Lax Speedway. "We had lots of fun and then drank tons of beer!' Dave did manage to win the first heat on the night before the partying began.
Dale's Pics from past...Kevin Collins #112 North Eastern United States Modified hotshoe. Doug Ingalls, Texas Modified racer and his version of Wedge from 1985. #43 Wedge Late Model racer Cecil Eunice. #40 Jim Derhaag, 1980. ASA officials here at Queen City Speedway, Westchester, OH., weren't too keen on early '80s Spoiler Madness, so spoiler which was dragging on ground is being trimmed here as photo was being taken. The very stock appearing Derrike Cope Ford Thunderbird #7. Definitely a Chevy Camaro being driven by #31 Steve Grissom. Tom Reffner #88 and Scott Hansen #53 do battle at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI., in 1985. The #93 John Ziegler 1985 Oktoberfest racing weekend main event winning Ford Thunderbird. The 'Stock" Camaro of #28 Jim Weber racing in 1985.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
2018 January
Well, it's that time of year when I have absolutely nothing to talk about. Now I know why folks like to rehash the previous year's events. We'll attempt that here and with a little luck something of substance will pop into my head to at least keep you reader(s) interested!
Just off the top of my head the racing season at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., comes to mind. Car counts in the NASCAR Late Model Division were much better in 2017 and a new champion was crowned. Perennial Champ Steve Carlson faded at the end and it was Nick Panitzke, the Minnesota traveler taking the championship crown. Most folks would agree it was nice to see a new champion in the division as Carlson has dominated it for too many years to count. Ty Majeski has had the fastest car for some time now at the track, but with his pursuit of greener pastures he wasn't able to compete often enough to win a championship the last number of years. So what will change at the track for 2018? Not all that much, although the Outlawz Division will now become a thing of the past as too few cars for too many years forced management to eliminate that class for 2018. The division has basically offered drivers the opportunity to race what ever they bring to the track. This is something racers constantly complain about, too many rules to compete under. With few rules, the division was only able to bring 5-6 cars/event, consequently making for less than competitive racing. With the change it would appear the Street Stock Division with ever increasing car counts will see more track time in 2018.
It was good to see the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., get its first year under new owner and management under its belt as Dad Mark and son Cody Smiley appeared to get off on the right foot with a successful season of racing. The speedway will always be special to this scribe and it looks to be in good hands heading down the road.
And, in a situation that somewhat contributes to the problem, but also down the road could solve some things and make for better racing, the United Motorsports Association, (UMA) was formed. The group consisting of race tracks Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., and State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., is a governing body that hopes to create a more level playing field with more uniform rules for all involved. The main focus being the Super Late Model Division of racing, the group has also brought back the Wisconsin Challenge Series which features special event venues at the above mentioned tracks. The Central Wisconsin Racing Association in attempting to rekindle the fire of great racing from years gone by with its 'Stars to Legends Tour" has also aligned itself rules wise with UMA. With many race cars out there, but unfortunately with too many having been parked, the idea here is to get more participants involved again and create a larger fan following as a result.
Meanwhile, The CWRA is sticking to its guns by requiring the use of the Towel City Racing Tire for all its Tour events, instead of whatever Hoosier tire is available out there. This formula has worked in increasing car counts at said events with racers finding it more affordable to compete in a Super Late Model type race car. Amazingly, in 2017, a total of 46 tires were purchased among the top 10 drivers in CWRA. With the tire considerably less to purchase initially than the others out there, racers are finding wear characteristics better overall as well, as new is not always better/faster in terms of competing in the Tour events.
Have wanted for years to catch a race at the Phoenix International Raceway, Phoenix, AZ., and finally got that opportunity here in 2017. Not a bad NASCAR Cup race but if NASCAR didn't think it had problems prior to this year it better take a harder look heading into 2018, as this event as well as most others found attendance and TV viewer ship down considerably. The last Cup race of the year at Homestead Speedway found television viewer ship down 23% from last year. That, my friends is significant and what NASCAR does to solve the problem of their boring, for the most part uninteresting fabricated events remains to be seen. Maybe the answer appears in the previous sentence.
Folks from Wisconsin are still monitoring the progress of Badger State racer Ty Majeski. Aligned with Roush Racing, Majeski has certainly accomplished just about all he can at the short track level of racing. Will racing and winning in NASCAR big league racing be the next to conquer? Everyone here is definitely hoping it happens.
It was fun watching Rachel Kallas get her first CWRA "Stars to Legends Tour" win at Dells Raceway Park this past season. More remarkable was the fact she did it in a Limited Late Model type race car taking down the Super Late Model big dogs!
It was nice to see Matt Henderson pick up a NASCAR Late Model Feature win at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway this past season. The win for Henderson was his first in the Division in 8 years! Henderson laid it all on the line on the night practically putting his race car into a 4 wheel drift through the corners the last several laps to pick up the popular win.
Great to see all around nice guy Frank Nitzke capture the 2017 CWRA "Stars to Legends Tour" Championship. Nitzke comes from a racing family with father Stu a well known racer for many years back in the day.
Ty Majeski captured his 4th ARCA Midwest Tour Championship in a row in 2017. In the aforementioned, hopefully Majeski can find the same success in upper levels of racing.
And, as/per usual it was great fun at the Annual Champions Reunion as part of Oktoberfest Racing weekend at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Perhaps the best ever turnout of past champion racers were on hand for the event along with a number of significant to eras of the past 50 years original, restored race cars. With arm twisted, it looks like I have been talked into doing another Reunion in 2018. The event, with stars having to be aligned and a number of things taking place could see a well known, great racer from days gone by both appearing at the event and racing during the Annual 'Fest weekend. Now how cool would that be!
Here and there...Sad to hear of long time Wisconsin racer Orv Buelow passing away here recently. Orv spent a long time behind the wheel of a race car and carved out a nice career in the sport. A memorable sight of Orv was seeing him with his familiar Cigar "stogie" hanging out of his mouth... Good to see Greg Oliver agreeing to a lease to operate the racetrack located just outside Tomah, WI. Oliver who has kept plenty busy in racing whether it was flagging events or running the series' he currently holds events with, is now taking on more in running a racetrack! Oliver plans to run several Divisions of racing on Friday nights in 2018 with the possibility of special events added to the mix. The Tomah track has a long history of racing and it's good to see that will continue under Oliver's direction...Ok, you can wake up now, the column is done! We'll see you right here for more racing, propaganda and fake news in 2018.
Looking back to September 11th, 1966 it was Jim Back winning the Feature race at Griffith Park Speedway, Wis. Rapids, WI. Following Back were Dean Spohn and Marv Marzofka. Heat race winners were Ken Ubinger, Dale Walworth, Orv Buelow and Tom Reffner. The Semi-Feature went to Willie Reinwand with Consolation race honors going to Ray Hoffman. The Non-Qualifiers race win went to Roger Olson with Fast time honors going to Dick Trickle at 14:27 seconds around the 1/4 mile paved oval. On August 18th, 1974 it was Neil Callahan winning the Feature race at the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI. Following Callahan were Dave Field, Jim Back, Jim Hornung, Mike Miller, Marv Marzofka, Gary Smith, Larry Detjens, Buck Linhart and Don Marcis. Semi-Feature honors went to Fluff Furo followed by Tom Musgrave, John Brevik, Orv Buelow and Dale Walworth. The Consolation race winner was Tim Carlson. Heat race victors were Don Turner, Bob Mackesy and Callahan. The Fast Dash went to Miller with Back setting Fast time at 13:464 seconds around the 3/10ths mile high banked oval. At Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., September 8th, 1966, it was Les Katzner winning the 50 lap Feature. Katzner was followed by Dick Trickle, Tom Reffner, Jim Back and Dave Field. The 30 lap Semi-Feature went to Bud Schroeder followed by Orv Buelow and Lyle Nabbefeldt. Consolation race victors were Larry Morris and Louie Kandler with heat race wins going to Willie Hammond, Art Link, Marlin Walbeck and Reffner. Fast time went to Trickle at 13:87 seconds around the 1/4 mile paved oval. 55 cars timed in for the Season Championship event. On August 28th, 1966 it was Marlin Walbeck winning the 25 lap Feature at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI. Dave Marcis, Rich Somers and Denny Schwantes followed. The Semi-Feature went to Tom Bump while Heat race winners were Roger Guldan, Walbeck and John Cywinski. The Fast Dash went to Somers with Marcis setting quick time at 15:95 seconds around the 1/4 mile paved oval. On September 29th, 2012 at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., it was Steve Holzhausen winning the 1st 50 lap Feature over Dalton Zehr, Mark Eswein, Cardell Potter and Skylar Holzhausen. Skylar Holzhausen won the 2nd 50 lap main followed by Eswein, Don Turner, Steve Holzhausen and Ty Majeski. Preliminary race winners were Chad Selk, Jamie Iverson and Kris Kelly. Fast time honors went to Skylar Holzhausen at 17:893 around the 1/2 mile paved oval.
Pics from past...Heat race action at the old Griffith Park Speedway of Wis. Rapids, WI, 1966. Orv Buelow is in the #77 on inside row. Bob Bergeron photo. #77 Orv Buelow 1969 Buick Skylark in 1974. Always had a soft spot for this car as it was the same year and model of the first car I ever owned! Kurt Luoma photo. Something to warm you during a cold winter, Dick Trickle race car on his hauler in front of his old shop in Wis. Rapids, WI., January, 1979. Gary Hall photo. 1974 Neil Callahan and his Bemco built Chevy Nova. Dale P. Danielski pic. Good old Jimbo Back #61 from back in the day. Marg/Farrar photo. I'd rather race a Ford, #78 Steve Holzhausen. Rodney Dykeman photo. Les Katzner and some of the cars he raced. Dale P. Danielski photo.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
2017 November
Racers wearing snowmobiling suits, an icy track, and even some snow in the air. Sounds like a snowmobiling racing derby ready to take place, but no, it's Matt Rowe's Impact Survival series getting set to go at Wausau's State Park Speedway, here Saturday, October 28th, 2017.
The event is run rain or shine and it's a good thing as snow and sleet were a part of the race all day long making for "Tricky' track conditions and numerous changes in driver strategy. This year's "Creepy Classic" 300 found 100 cars entered to race which meant the lucky winner would be "Treated" to a $5,000 Reward!
That lucky winner turned out to be Todd Tacheny who would roll to the win over Travis Volm and Allen Maher. Roll, being the key word here as you really can't race in these events as it more often than not gets you eliminated. Survival as the ISS title states, is truly the way to approach it as with close to 100 cars to dodge on a 1/4 mile paved track there is something going on constantly. Some of that action includes leaving cars where they die (Without the drivers in them of course) on the race track and racers lap after lap, having to deal with them. Try running the same line around a race track without ever changing obstacles to deal with. Not that easy. Now try it with cars stacked up in the corners and vehicles blocking the way on the straights. You can just see when drivers have that Oh! ____moment and forget there was a car there! Quick reflexes can't always save you and consequently more carnage is added to the mix. These events are kind of like your typical NASCAR race where everybody wrecks. The difference is these guys have to deal with much more in the way of distractions and if you look at things when they are all said and done, handle the situation better than the pros! We're not dealing with millions of dollars of losses either as very little expense is involved with fielding one of these cars and consequently the fun factor is practically off the charts. Can't say that with our more famous, top tier, best in the World racing group.
Case in point is second place finisher Travis Volm. Volm caught wind of getting a car Thursday prior to race day to participate with and the $2,300 second place finishing share surpassed, (Volm races at other venues throughout the summer) what he made during the entire racing season!
All in all, just a fun type of racing. And looking at some of those that compete in these races it's a mix of average Joe, off the street racer and drivers that have seen success at numerous levels of the sport. It's a level playing field whether your name is Muenster, Tushoski, Calabrese,Van Pay, Bennett, or Tacheny, Maher, Piekkenpool, Brandt, and Cabelka. Plus, if you stumble onto something with your car and win one of these things, Matt Rowe is going to take it away from you so you can't race it for awhile. Fun to participate in, fun to watch and a great fan drawing. That's the Impact Survival Series of Matt Rowe.
Here and there...It was definitely the wettest Oktoberfest racing weekend that anyone can remember as two of the four scheduled days were totally washed out. The Annual event at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., was set for October 5-8, but just Saturday, (Barely) and the finale on Sunday took place. Big winner in the final, the ARCA Midwest Tour 200, was Johnny Sauter who pretty much put everyone to sleep in his covering the field on the day. Dan Fredrickson made things a bit exciting at the very end, but couldn't make it stick so Sauter cruised under the checkered. The final order was Sauter, Ty Majeski, Fredrickson, Dalton Zehr and Andrew Morrisey...With a sunny sky and downright balmy conditions on Sunday of 'Fest, the show went on. The show as in Champions Reunion IX, celebrating "60 Years of Racing at the Fairgrounds". A great turnout of racers, promoters and fans made for a fun filled day. Looks like my arm has been twisted and we will do another next year...For the first time in five years there is a new NASCAR Late Model Champion at La Crosse Fairgrounds. With the rain falling and no racing occurring Thursday of 'Fest, Nick Panitzke held onto his slim points lead over Steve Carlson and took the Championship without having to race a lap in what was supposed to be the season finale...
And looking back in time on Sunday night, September 6th, 1964, it was Ken Pancratz winning the 25 lap Feature at Wausau's State Park Speedway. Dick Schultz, Sonny Immerfaul and Eddie Hume followed. The 20 lap Semi-main went to Junior Marzofka followed by Jerry Glodowski, Milt Abitz and Carl Frick. Heat race winners were Frick, Abitz and Augie Winkleman. The special "Hot dog" dash race was won by Pancratz. Marlin Walbeck was fast qualifier at 15:51 seconds. On Sunday night, September 5th, 1965 it was Ken Pancratz winning the season ending 25 lap Feature at State Park Speedway. Pancratz was followed by Denny Schawantes, Jere O'Day, Jake Schoone and Neil Callahan. The 15 lap Semi-Feature went to Bill Bembinster followed by Carl Frick, Don Budleski, and Chet Strojny. Heat race wins went to Frick, Schwantes and Jim Ryan. The 5 lap Feature car dash went to Don Lewis with Pancratz setting fast time at 15:45 seconds. Thanks to Jim Cleveland for the archived race result history...
Pics now... Twin City rush hour traffic? No, it's the ISS race at State Park Speedway October 28th. Reportedly the car you see upside down in this photo is Dan Plan but that couldn't be verified at press time. Scared to speed, the Creepy Classic has plenty of themed for the occasion cars racing.
and from the past... Sonny Immerfaul (Left) who flagged and raced at State Park Speedway and many other tracks in Wisconsin, hands the trophy to winner #29 Ken Pancratz another hotshoe racer back in the day. Central Wisconsin racer Denny Schwantes #47. Carl Frick in the #52. Photos from the Marg/Farrar collection.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
2017 October
It was good to see Frank Nitzke take the Championship title in this year's Central Wisconsin Racing Association Stars to Legends Tour after placing 5th and 2nd in the two Features in the season finale at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., here September 8th. Nitzke was never dominant in the eight races contested this year but as we know championships are won via consistency and Frank was certainly that throughout the season.
Nitzke is from a racing family as his Dad, Stu raced for many seasons mostly in the Fox Valley region of Wisconsin. With the elder Nitzke having done very well through the years on both dirt and pavement, it was a natural that Frank would tag along and eventually get involved as a driver in the sport. His career includes numerous wins at tracks throughout Wisconsin and now through CWRA, his second career Championship winning season. According to Frank, " This Championship ranks right at the top in my career of racing. It was fun, fun, fun and we plan to defend our title next year."
Having raced for 19 years Nitzke is giving no indication of leaving the sport in the near future, but Frank knows his son Josh would at some point like to get behind the wheel. "I know Josh would love to drive, but then I wouldn't have anyone helping me on the car." We'll see how long this arrangement remains status quo, as Josh has served as crew chief for his dad for quite some time now. And who knows, Frank with two cars has indicated he would be willing to put someone in his other car. Talk was of having a two car effort on the CWRA Tour in 2018. Regardless of how things shake out for next year, it was good to see Nitzke get a Super Late Model season title this year as he is truly one of the nice guys in racing and very deserving of the championship.
Well, we stepped over to the other side a bit here recently from our normal pursuits in racing, taking in the "Redneck 200" Enduro race at Mississippi Thunder Speedway of Fountain City, WI. The event was boasting of a $10,000 pay-off for the winner contingent on a 100 car field. Actually lining up for the race were 38 cars but a good race was seen with a fair amount of money still being distributed. It's always interesting to witness the different strategies used by racers in these events as some choose to be more patient and get to the end of the race, while others charge from the drop of the green with the main intent to put on a show! Bob Fort who has raced at various tracks through the years was one that chose the charge strategy moving from the back of the field into 3rd position before 50 laps were completed. That strategy proved very entertaining for fans, but proved to be Fort's undoing as his car didn't last to even the halfway point. Meanwhile, Nate Coopman who had an up front starting position paced himself throughout letting early leader Scott Vetter head the field for the bulk of the race. When it was time to move however, Coopman still had something left in his car while Vetter used up his equipment just a bit more allowing Coopman to take a lead with 50 or so laps left that he would maintain to the finish. All in all a fun and entertaining race and hopefully the track chooses to again run this event next year. Generally these type of events are racer driven in terms of pay-out, but a decent crowd was actually on hand for this one. Maybe with that in mind, the $200 entry fee could be cut back a bit, hopefully resulting in a better car count and some bills being paid by fans in attendance next year.
Here and there... Discussions are taking place for a 12-16 event schedule for the CWRA Tour group in 2018. With added sponsorship and contingency programs included for next years slate, the Stars to Legends Tour which saw increased interest and substantial growth in 2017 looks to be a lucrative series to run for Super Late Model competitors...We see where Ty Majeski captured his 4th consecutive ARCA Midwest Tour Championship with yet an event to go, with a 2nd place finish in the Thunderstruck event at Elko Speedway, of Elko, MN., this past weekend. Dalton Zehr won the event with Jonathan Eilen placing 3rd. Majeski who is still hopeful of getting to the top level of NASCAR has not faired all that well so far racing in ARCA and NASCAR Xfinity events, but all it takes is one good run to hopefully get things turned around. Can only hope that he is given a fair shot by the Roush organization who he is currently racing for to do just that...Speaking of Championships, many will be decided as part of this years Oktoberfest Racing Weekend at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI. One that local fans will for sure be watching is for the weekly NASCAR Late Model Championship as Nick Panitzke holds a narrow 11 point lead over Steve Carlson. Carlson of late has not been accustomed to being in that position heading into the last points race, so it will be interesting to see who handles the pressure the best and walks off with the title...And, with 'Fest of course comes the annual Champions Reunion to be held Sunday, October 8th, from 11am-2pm in the Hospitality Chalet in turn two. Highlights this year with the Reunion theme being "60 Years of Racing at the 'Fest" will be the appearance of a Late Model that actually raced with the IMCA group in the 1960s. IMCA was the first sanctioning body to hold races at the track when it opened as a dirt track in 1957. Also appearing will be a car raced by Dick Trickle in the 1980s restored to original. A look alike car to the one racing pioneer Ken Christenson, Sr., drove back in the 1960s will also be on display. Other cars will be on hand along with over 50 championship winning drivers. It's an event fans past and present won't want to miss...
And looking back in time on October 7th, 1973 it was Marv Marzofka winning the Oktoberfest 200 race at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. Marzofka wasn't deemed the winner until some time had passed after the checkered flag waved as scoring missed his early pit stop which actually put him in the lead after several others running up front had pitted. At one point Bill Oas was thought to be the winner along with Rich Somers. It was Marzofka ultimately the winner after 200 laps...On August 15th, 1971 it was Dick Trickle winning the Feature event at La Crosse Interstate Speedway. Dick Giles and Dan Prziborowski placed 2nd and 3rd. The 15 lap Semi-Feature went to John Scott with heat race wins going to Curt Iverson, John Brevik, and Giles. The Trophy Dash winner was Prziborowski...On May 5th, 1985, it was Jim Back winning the feature at La Crosse Interstate Speedway. Following Back were Steve Holzhausen, Rick Wateski, Jim Weber and Don Turner. The Semi-Feature went to Spike Lindly with heat race winners, Geno Broesch, Ted Musgrave, and Greg Holzhausen. Back was the dash winner with Steve Carlson setting fast time...On July 14th, 1999, it was Mark Eswein winning the CWRA Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds. Following Eswein were Wayne Breitenfeldt, Rory Melbinger, Gary Back and Jeff Fritz...
Dale's pics from the past. Marv Marzofka in 1973 says, "I won that race" to promoter Larry Wehrs, and he did. The Camaro Marv Marzofka drove to 1973 Oktoberfest 200 win. Dick Trickle puts his car through its paces at the 2006 Oktoberfest event.
That puts a wrap on it for another round. And heading into Fall, go outside and live a little. Get off the phone!
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
2017 September
There's always added excitement when racers win their first ever event, or pick up a victory after a long drought. In this scribe's recent travels that occurred on a number of occasions.
Going back to August 4th, 2017 at the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., it was up and coming driver Jerry Brickner scoring his first ever Feature win, it coming in the 50 lap Super Late Model main event there. Veteran, Mark Eswein closed in late but at the checkered flag it was Brickner over Eswein, Chad Devine Mike Litchfeld and Jordan Thiel. You can never again win that first one and a very excited Brickner celebrated hard in victory lane afterward.
On to LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., August 5th, it was Adam Oxborough winning his first ever Feature of any kind in the 15 lap Sportsman division main. Steve Bachman and Randy Humfeld both threatened at the end but Oxborough held them off for the milestone win. Same night, same track, produced another first ever winner as Ty Reedy won the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature his initial main event conquest. Reedy had veteran racer Brent Kirchner on his tail but was up to the task holding off Kirchner, Ty Majeski, Nick Panitzke and Mike Ehde who were tightly bunched up behind.
Nick Clements who has won in the top division of racing at La Crosse Fairgrounds before, but hadn't seen victory lane in awhile, changed that here August 19th. Clements captured the first of two 20 lap NASCAR Late Model features on the night ending the drought. According to Clements the team was ready to take a sawz-all to the car as frustration was setting in having not won yet in the John Gilbertson owned Steve Carlson Late Model. Frustration meanwhile doesn't begin to describe the season Sportsman driver Brian Hesselberg has had at Lax. Having only finished one Feature all year at the track, Hesselberg after more costly repairs on his car from a wreck a couple weeks back, finally came through for the feature win here 8/19. The 15 lap main was tight all the way, but Hesselberg held his line and motored to the win over Randy Humfeld and Steve Bachman who finished nose to tail behind. For Hesselberg, who was strongly considering calling it a racing career after this season, hopefully winning means everything and the plan changes.
Speaking of winning, the first time is anything but the case for Nick Panitzke as he won his 5th NASCAR Late Model Feature at Lax. Fairgrounds here Saturday, August 19th. Panitzke's victory was in the 2nd 20 lap main on the night and it put him in the division point lead heading into the season Finale on October 5th, as part of Oktoberfest Racing Weekend.
Also included in recent travels was a visit to the Shawano Speedway, Shawano, WI., July 29th. Always great to catch a race here and tonight was no exception as an excellent field of cars was on hand to do battle. Taking the 20 lap Late Model main event win was the very popular Nick Anvelink who utilized a late race restart to pass Troy Springborn which he held to the finish. Springborn held on for 2nd with Ron Berna, Joe Reuter and Brett Swedberg following.
Here and there...Back in July at Lax. Speedway, Nick Panitzke was guilty of a tire infraction in qualifying. Undaunted, the long haul Minnesota driver who had to start in the back of his 10 car heat race, moved from last to first in just three laps to win! Now that was fun to watch...Something not seen in five years at Lax. Fairgrounds is someone other than Steve Carlson leading the NASCAR Late Model points heading into the last event of the year. Nick Panitzke has an 11 point lead going into Oktoberfest Racing weekend over Carlson...Can't leave out the fact Justin Mullikan won his first ever Late Model race at Lax. Fairgrounds. Mullikan raced to a heat race win here on August 5th...The Central Wisconsin Racing Association Stars to Legends Tour has continued on in 2017 with recent winners being Mark Mackesy and Jeff Weinfurter, (Golden Sands Speedway, August 4th.) Jake Capek (First ever Super Late win by the way.) and again Mackesy at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., August 10th. One event remains on the Tour this year at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., Friday, September 8th and at least 6 drivers still have a shot at the season points championship...Hard to believe with this past show August 19th at Lax. Speedway that the next racing for most of the divisions is at Oktoberfest Racing Weekend, October 4-8, 2017. And, of course with 'Fest, comes the Champions Reunion from 11am-2pm on Sunday, October 8th in the Hospitality Chalet in the grand stand area of turn one. This years' theme will be 60 years of racing at the Fairgrounds featuring some drivers that actually raced way back then as well as past champions that raced through the years. One such driver's career that will be focused on is the late Ken Christenson, Sr., of the racing Christenson family. In addition, a replica car of one he raced back in the day will be on display. The Reunion is open to all past Champions in any division or series at any track, including an Oktoberfest main event win, that haven't raced in the past three years. Contact Dale P. Danielski at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com if you are interested in attending. Additional information is forthcoming via www.starmakermultimedia.com a Facebook Champions Reunion event page, and a mailer to past attendees...
Looking back in time on Wednesday, August 7th, 1957, it was the "Big Cars christening the new 1/2 mile dirt, Fairgrounds oval in West Salem, WI., with Johnny Pouleson in a Perdue Offenhauser winning the afternoon, 15 lap Feature, and Buzz Barton, in another Offenhauser taking the 15 lap main event nightcap. Johnny Beauchamp in a 1957 Fuel injected Chevrolet would win both the afternoon 25 lap main, as well as the 100 lap feature nightcap in the stock car division, which competed for the first time at the track on August 14th... Jim Sauter captured the first ever pavement Feature race at the Fairgrounds in West Salem on July 14th, 1970 in his 1967 Chevelle.. Following Sauter in the main were Jim Back and Dick Trickle. Dale Walworth won the Semi-Feature race over Tom Schaller while heat race wins went to Walworth, Bill Wirtz, and Marv Marzofka. Fast time went to Back at 21:39 seconds. Jim Hemker was victorious in the Hobbystock Feature... A Sunday event in 1963 found Ken Christenson winning the Feature event at the Southside Speedway of Westby, WI. Christenson who also won a heat race was followed in the feature by Glen Henderson, Cecil Henderson and Dick Jones.
Dale's pics from the past. Cars line up at the North La Crosse Speedbowl, La Crosse, WI., back in the 1960s. The #2 car is that of early racing pioneer, Ken Christenson, Sr. (Ken Christenson photo collection.) A replica car looking nearly identical to this one will be on display at Champions Reunion IX as part of Oktoberfest Racing Weekend, October 4-8, 2017. Ernie Derr, the IMCA Late Model king won at La Crosse Fairgrounds back in the 1960s. Jim Sauter won first Feature on pavement at Lax. Interstate Speedway in 1970 and was first full season Late Model Champion on pavement in 1971 in this 1969 Chevelle. (Mussoni collection photo) Tom Reffner first ever Oktoberfest Feature winner in 1970.
That once again wraps things up here and just remember, I repeat, get out there and enjoy life a little...please, get off the phone!
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
2017 August
A benefit of holding all the Champions/Racer Reunions that I have through the years is contacting and ultimately staying in touch with the many star racers we enjoyed watching in the past. I recently had conversations with two of the best from the area, Dave Marcis and Mike Miller, and they had some interesting insights on racing, before and today.
For Dave Marcis it was a matter of racing in Wisconsin and accomplishing all he set out to, and making the decision to do it full time which meant moving down south and competing in NASCAR. "I raced 92 times back one year in the '60s and won 52 of them. There was nothing more I could do here and I couldn't make a living because the season was too short in the North." With the move, Dave did what no one before him from the area did and that was win races in NASCAR's top division, Cup. "When I went down south, I had $100 in my pocket. I didn't know if it was going to work out or not, but I knew I wanted to make a living at it, so I had to try.
Marcis would win 4 Cup races while making his living in the south but he sees where NASCAR could be heading for a fall in the future if things don't change. "NASCAR doesn't have anyone with knowledge of racing. The tracks keep taking seats out because the fans aren't coming like they used to. It's not about racing anymore, it's about a show, entertainment and the fans just aren't coming like they did before. The TV networks are paying the bills right now, but with ratings continuing to go down how long will that last? If the networks get out of it then what?"
Of course Dave's racing days have long since concluded, but he does still keep track of things and is to some extent still involved. "I do shocks for some of the guys to help keep them going, even though what that costs is ridiculous, but really, the cost of so much of this short track stuff, do fans care about the shocks guys run and how expensive they are? No, it doesn't put people in the stands. It does nothing for the show, matter of fact the racing isn't that good." Having his roots in Wisconsin Marcis sees paved racing at the short track level in need of common sense rules to get it back where it was in its heyday. "These tracks need to get together and have all the same rules so guys can race more. These tracks run their own deal anymore and some races with the same cars at tracks that are 35 miles apart are racing against each other running shows on the same day. That has to stop! That cuts the car count down and nobody wins. More cars bring more people."
Continuing discussion about his short tracking days, Marcis claims many of the drivers from up North could have made it in the south. "Marlin Walbeck, Dick Trickle, Tom Reffner, Marv Marzofka, and there were others, all could have been successful down south. They were doing so good with their short track racing North that they didn't want to take the risk like I did. The first time I went down south I took Trickle with me. He didn't come back until way late in his career. It was understandable because he was getting such good deal money to race besides his winnings in the north."
Even with his limited involvement in racing, Marcis says he stays plenty busy doing numerous things. "I have a "Honey Do" list that's 35 years long! My wife wanted me to put a yard in here at the house, I have a dump truck and a back-hoe so I could do it, but that was 24 years ago she asked!"
Meanwhile, Mike Miller is still a shirttail involvee in racing, keeping tabs on the sport to some degree. But it's more about what went on before that I enjoy the most in any discussion with Mike. According to Mike who did the unthinkable at the time, move from Minnesota, (New Prague to be precise.) to Wisconsin to be able to race more, it took 5-7 years to finally reach the level of success that the Central Wisconsin gang was experiencing. "I finally got it all down to where I could consistently win races. The patience, the muscle memory , the co-ordination from Head to Butt, to Foot to gas pedal. We were so close when racing that if you didn't have all that right your competitor would win. It was literally inches that made the difference a lot of times in winning or losing. I remember one year the first 4 times we raced Dick (Trickle) and I, the total difference of all our race finishes was less then a fender. That was racing against guys that had learned over time the patience, fully concentrating on all those things that make the difference. It took me a long time to finally have that." Miller also recalls back in the 1970s when female racer, and Indy car driver Janet Guthrie raced in Wisconsin at a time when the old school drivers weren't too fond of a female being involved racing in the sport. "She was going to race at State Park Speedway, (Wausau, WI.) and a spokesperson for her asked me what do we need to do to get here up to speed? I became a mentor of sorts, I think I kind of felt sorry for her as no one would help her, so I tried to get her thinking like I had to. Co-coordinating all those things, getting her mind set and concentrating on all of it to be competitive at the short track level. Of course attempting this at State Park compounded the problem as that has always been a place where when it seems like you are going slow you are probably moving up!" Guthrie never really did "get it' at that level but according to Miller she made a good attempt. "She was really serious about her racing, and she did compete in the Indianapolis 500. If she could have spent more time, that seat time thing, I think she would have been alright." And of course the seat time thing, racing enough to where you do become accepted, is something Miller knows all too well. It's no secret that both fans and drivers alike remember back in the day there being no Love lost between the Wisconsin drivers and the Minnesota contingent. "I think it took ten years after moving to Wisconsin that Dick finally told me, you're a Wisconsin guy now. It took a long time to earn that respect from the Wisconsin crew. If Guthrie could have stayed with it, I think she would have earned it too."
Of course Miller like Marcis is concerned with the State of short track racing and the sport in general. "You could learn so much racing practically every night of the week like we did. With rules the way they are and tracks so independent, it's difficult for racers to get the laps, the experience to speed up the learning curve like we did. There are still some really good drivers out there, one I've watched that has reached the Cup level, Kyle Larson is one of them. That guy can driver a race car, any race car!"
Here and there...Speaking of short track level racing, The CWRA Stars to Legends Tour returned to Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., for an event July 15th. The program was held in honor of two all time great short trackers, Marv Marzofka and Tom Reffner. Both were on hand for the event which saw two new main event winners on the Tour for 2017. Rachel Kallas and Frank Nitzke were the winners of the two 50 lap Features held as a 17 car field did battle on the night. For Kallas, it is believed to be the first ever Feature win for a female in CWRA competition. For Nitzke, it meant taking over the Tour point lead heading into the next event at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., Friday, August 4th...The Tundra Series was in action at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., June 30th and a field under extremely threatening weather, of 27 Super Late Models participated. Cole Anderson under the guidance of Dan Fredrickson took the 50 lap Feature win easily outdistancing Dalton Zehr, and Michael Sauter...Nick Panitzke continued to run hot in NASCAR Late Model competition at Lax Speedway June 24th,, winning the 25 lap Feature event, his 3rd here for 2017, over a 24 car field. Brad Powell and Steve Carlson followed...And it finally happened here July 8th at La Crosse Speedway. Matt Henderson ended his 8 year drought in NASCAR Late Model competition winning the 25 lap Feature event. Henderson drove the wheels off his car in fighting off Brad Powell and Jerimy Wagner for the win. And, rookie driver in NASCAR competition, Ryan Brown captured his first ever win, taking the 3rd heat race on the night. He attributed the victory to the long hours spent playing racing video games. My, how things are different these days. Used to be you started in a lower division of racing, got your seat time, took your lumps, finally moving up through the ranks and winning in the top division...
Looking back in time on Saturday, July 12th, 1969, it was John Ziegler in a 1964 Ford winning the 30 lap Feature at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. Following Ziegler at the finish were Lyle Nabbefeldt, Jim Back, John McNamara and Tom Reffner. On Saturday, July 19th, 1969 at the Dells, it was Kato Theissen in Dick Trickle's #99 1967 Ford Fairlane winning the 30 lap Feature. Following Theissen were Duane Walch, Tom Jensen, Homer Spink and Emmitt "Jerry" Stephan. On Thursday, July 15th, 1971 at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., it was Marv Marzofka winning the 30 lap Feature race. Jim Hornung won the 15 lap Semi-Feature with heat wins going to Denny Paasch, Bill Wirtz and Dick Trickle. (Results courtesy of Jim Cleveland)
Recent Feature winners on the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour, these coming at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., July 15th, Rachel Kallas, winner of the Tom Reffner 50 and Frank Nitzke, victor in the Marv Marzofka 50.
Dale's pics from the past. Mike Miller started racing regularly in Wisconsin in 1973. He raced Ford Mustangs originally with this photo taken at the Dells track in 1974. Dick Trickle and Dave Marcis do battle in the early '60s at Griffith Park Speedway, Wis. Rapids, WI. racing in Wisconsin.
That wraps things up for this round, just remember, get out there and enjoy life a little... get off the phone!
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
2017 July
By Dale P. Danielski
Been hearing some discussion about the chances of Ty Majeski winning a main event at each of the Wisconsin pavement tracks he's competed at, less a couple that don't race what he has driven. For modern era short track paved racing the list is impressive!
It would appear the only Speedway left for Majeski to conquer, is the Slinger Super Speedway, Slinger, WI. As far as I know even with all the Roush development stuff going on for Majeski, he still does plan on racing in the upcoming Slinger Nationals. If he wins there my guess is he'd be at 10 or so Speedways in the State raced at as there are currently 12 paved tracks operating.
Of course I always have to make comparisons with today's racing to that taking place years ago and it brings up past stars and how many paved tracks they may have won at. Being able to compete through a number of generations of short track racing, and a circuit consisting of 5-7 events/week greatly increased the totals for drivers such as Dick Trickle, Tom Reffner and Marv Marzofka. Therefore their totals all surpass the Majeski mark, but that really shouldn't diminish from what he's done. Different era, less opportunity to win at all tracks. Preliminary totals for the aforementioned trio are in the 14-18 range of tracks having won Features at. In Trickle's case we know he won at Stratford, Adams Friendship, Black River Falls, Tomahawk, Tomah/Sparta, Capital Speedway, both the old 1/4 mile and newer 1/2 mile, Wis. Dells 1/4 mile and 1/3 mile, Griffith Park Speedway of Wisconsin, Rapids, Golden Sands Speedway, KK Sports Arena, (WIR) North La Crosse Speedbowl, La Crosse Interstate, (Lax Fairgrounds) State Park Speedway, (Wausau) Slinger and the Milwaukee Mile. Although I can't confirm it, I believe he also won an event, possibly in a secondary division at the road course, Road America of Elkhart Lake, if that counts.
Reffner's totals are very similar although I know Tom won at Columbus 151 Speedway and I don't think Trickle ever did.
Marzofka won at the majority of those same tracks although Marv tended to stay closer to home in pursuit of track championships whereas Trickle and Reffner did more traveling.
Looking at winning at out of State venues Majeski has excelled in that category as well winning in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, and Minnesota to name a bunch.
Of course Trickle did a ton of traveling through the years winning pretty much throughout the Midwest and both coasts. Some wins that stand out were in Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota and Missouri.
Reffner meanwhile had stand out wins in Colorado, Indiana, Minnesota and Missouri.
There are others like Mike Miller who moved from Minnesota to Wisconsin to race more that won at most of the Wisconsin paved tracks but also at numerous out of State venues. For Miller it included big wins in Alabama, California, Georgia, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Virginia.
All in all, drivers from Wisconsin years ago had more opportunity to race and win all over the Country due to uniformity in rules, much of which started with the Central Wisconsin Racing Association. Rules formed there went Nationwide and allowed drivers to race and win everywhere.
For Majeski, considering he's had much less rules uniformity to work with than racers back in the day his winning where he has, has definitely been impressive. And it's good once again to see someone from Wisconsin making their mark higher up!
Here and there...The CWRA Stars to Legends Tour returned to action at the Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., here May 27th with the Jim Back Memorial race. A field of 16 Super Late Models were on hand and when it was all said and done Derrick Van Dreel had taken the 30 lap win, a first ever occurrence for the Stevens Point, WI., driver. Originally scheduled for 61 total laps as that was Jim Back's car number, the event was called complete after the first 30 due to a power outage! A generator that provides electricity for the track went out and the program had to be called as no other options for lighting were available. I remember back in the day when lights went out at the Golden Sands Speedway and cars with their headlights on surrounded the track providing lighting to complete the program. That option was apparently not available here on this night... La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., which has been extremely weather plagued all season had a show June 3rd with 26 NASCAR Late Models on hand. Nick Panitzke who so far has raced in all the events won both 20 lap Features on the night, no easy task...State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., held a CWRA Stars to Legends Tour race here June 8th. Although a bit slim on cars both 25 lap Features for the group were competitive and consequently entertaining to watch. Mark Mackesy in his first appearance on the Tour this year won both main events and was crowned the overall race champion...Good to catch a show at the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., here June 9th and Wyatt Brooks who we've never seen win a Feature did just that here Friday night. Brooks held off Mike Lichtfeld and Jordan Thiel for the win in the 50 lap event...La Crosse Fairgrounds held another show on June 17th and it was another driver we've never seen win a Feature, Jesse Pokszyk taking the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model main event win. Pokszyk started up front taking an early lead and building on it as the laps unwound, pretty much leaving everyone in his dust by the time the checkered flag waved. Nick Clements and Corey Jankowski followed...CWRA Stars to Legends Tour racing took place at Golden Sands Speedway June 23rd with the Albert Getzloff Memorial race. Getzloff was the tire sales and service guy for CWRA for many years. Some of the stuff Albert said would make you do a double take, but more often than not he'd have you busting a gut after something he commented on. This race is the first to honor him and 19 Super Late Models showed up to do battle. Mark Mackesy continued on his roll taking the first 30 lap Feature which was three in a row in CWRA competition for the Wausau, WI., driver. The streak was snapped in the 2nd 30 lap main as Derrick Van Dreel took the win, his 2nd of 2017 on the Tour. Next up for the Stars to Legends Tour group is July 15th at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI. This event will honor two drivers that are what the Tour represents, superstars in their racing days and true legends of the sport now. The two great racers, Marv Marzofka and Tom Reffner will both be in attendance for the event... La Crosse Fairgrounds got another race in, albeit with threatening weather again, as a thunderstorm rolled through an hour or so prior to racing, and it was Nick Panitzke taking his 3rd NASCAR Late Model win. If Panitzke continues to race at Lax he will definitely be a threat to win the track Championship. As long as the team is having fun, Panitzke indicated they will!
In the quote of the column department it's Jesse Pokszyk after his big win at La Crosse Fairgrounds. "That's my biggest win in any kind of stock car to date!"
Looking back in time on May 25th, 1964 it was Marv Marzofka in his 1957 Chevy taking the Feature win at the Black River Falls Speedway...And looking back on August 8th, 1964 at that same speedway, it was Dick Trickle winning the Feature race over Marlin Walbeck and Marv Marzofka...On Sunday, June 7th, 1970 it was Marv Marzofka winning the 50 lap Feature at Golden Sands Speedway. Marzofka was followed by Tom Reffner and Jim Back...On Thursday night, May 27th at State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI., it was Tom Reffner winning the 20 lap Feature over Jim Back and Marv Marzofka...
Recent Feature winners on the CWRA Stars to Legends Tour here at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., in the Albert Getzloff Memorial race Mark Mackesy #12 and Derrick Van Dreel, #12v. Dale's pics from the past. Mike Miller poses next to one of the Oldsmobile Cutlasses he drove in the late '70s. Marv Marzofka #91 racing back in the day. Tom Reffner, 1989 at Golden Sands Speedway. Dick Trickle posing with "Goldie" in 1989 at Golden Sands Speedway. Supposedly the last chassis constructed by Trickle, this car is rumored to be reappearing in the not too distant future.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
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AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
2017 June
By Dale P. Danielski
It was nice at last to take in some racing action as a nice April day, 4/22/17 greeted drivers and fans alike at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., for the "Thaw" event.
The race was also the first for new ownership team Mark and Cody Smiley. After a long run as owners/promoters the Basseuner family has sold the track and the new group intends to expand its offerings as time goes by.
The "Thaw" race offered a sizeable pay-off for all Divisions including a $3,000 to win feature for Super Late Models. The larger purse brought out an excellent field of cars, 32, and the racing proved to be very competitive. Although he wasn't perhaps most people's pre-race pick, driver Mike Litchfield proved them all wrong as he dominated the 100 lap main winning over a 20 car starting field. Following Litchfield at the finish was Casey Johnson, youngster Derek Kraus, Mark Eswein Jeremy Lepak and Dalton Zehr. A nice crowd on a Saturday afternoon (Yes, you are reading that correctly) were in attendance and hopefully they left craving more action as the track enters a new era of stock car racing.
I've often wondered why more tracks don't go with a Saturday afternoon time frame. In the past it was always that people had other things they were doing so you didn't want to interfere with that. My thought was always that the thing they are doing should be watching racing at your race track! I'm thinking over 1,000 were in attendance for the "Thaw" and hopefully that paid the bills and keeps peoples interest up. I know in my advanced age now I wouldn't have been brave enough to put up that kind of money for my first racing promotion but I give the Smiley's credit for "dangling the carrot" out there. Hopefully now and for years to come it pays off!
Another race we attended was the Lyle Nabbefeldt Memorial race at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., May 13th. The race was round one of the CWRA "Stars to Legends Tour" and proved very entertaining as well. Of course most of the younger folks out there don't even know who Nabbefeldt is, so promoting these type of events can be difficult. Nabbefeldt is one of the drivers that the Tour name is derived from; A star back in the early days of Central Wisconsin racing and a legend to be as he raced and won everywhere for many years. Sadly, Lyle was killed at the Dells track in May of 1973 while attempting to qualify for the nights racing, which led to the Memorial events being held in his honor.
Skylar Holzhausen wouldn't be all that aware of racing back in Lyle's days, but his Dad Steve would, having started his racing career in the 1970s. Appreciating history is why the Holzhausens will be racing on the entire CWRA Tour in 2017 and the opening event gave them no reason not to as Skylar took both ends of the Twin 55 lap feature format on the night. Working his way from the back of the pack, Holzhausen found himself chasing early leader Jake Capek with the laps winding down. A slick pass in turn one put Holzhausen in the lead which he would not relinquish. Capek followed in 2nd at the finish with Frank Nitzke, Eugene Gregorich, Jr., Jeff Weinfurter and Mike Sievers following.
The 2nd 55 found Holzhausen mid-pack for the start and he again steadily worked his way to the front. Meanwhile, Gregorich, Jr., who started in the front row was in the process of building a huge lead. With the laps again winding down and Gregorich Jr., still safely in front, Holzhausen, who admitted afterward he really had to push it at the end, finally caught Gregorich, Jr., and made the victorious pass with 15 or so laps left. At the finish it was Holzhausen, followed by Gregorich, Jr., Capek, Nitzke, Rachel Kallas and Derrick Van Dreel rounding out the top 6 finishers. All in all an entertaining evening of racing and a great way to honor one of our racing heroes from the past.
Here and there...The next event for the CWRA "Stars to Legends Tour was scheduled for May 27th at the Marshfield Motor Speedway of Marshfield, WI. By the time you read this the Jim Back Memorial race will hopefully have been held. We'll provide a report from there in the next issue of MRC... Speaking of Jim Back, there isn't enough paper or ink in pens to cover all that this guy was and represented both on the track and elsewhere during his racing career. Hopefully as we go, we can come up with a "Back" story or two to tell...La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., has gotten just one of three scheduled events in so far but it proved to be a huge success, at least as far as NASCAR Late Model car count is concerned as 30 cars turned out for the first race. No stranger to victory lane here in recent years it was Ty Majeski taking the 25 lap Late Model win. Steve Carlson who is after another track championship placed 2nd and was followed by Tony Leis, Nick Panitzke, Corey Jankowski and Brad Powell. Some opening up a bit of rules for the LM division appears at least here early to be helping and hopefully car counts remain good for the rest of the season...Majeski continued his winning ways by taking the Cabin Fever 100 ARCA Midwest Tour event at State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI., here May 21st. The event was actually moved from May 20th to the 21st due to horrible weather conditions on the scheduled race date...In the quote of the column section, actually two quotes, it's Skylar Holzhausen racing in the Nabbefeldt Memorial at Dells Raceway Park." I'm not very confident racing on these tires (Towel City Racing tire) here tonight, I just don't know what to expect." Holzhausen after the racing was completed. "I love these tires, I raced hard on them and they stayed consistent. I was worried about passing with them but you can pass on the inside and outside without abusing them."
And looking back in time on Saturday night, May 29th, 1965 it was Marv Marzofka winning the Feature race at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. Following Marzofka at the finish was Jim Back, Lyle Nabbefeldt, Dick Trickle, Dave Marcis and Marlin Walbeck. The Semi-Feature went to Dave Larson with the Consolation race winner Del Kemnetz. Heat race wins went to Kemnetz, Chuck Smith, Wayne Kittleson and John McFaul. Fast timer among the 46 cars on hand was Trickle in his 1958 Ford at 14:02 seconds. And on May 5th, 1968 at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., it was Dick Trickle winning the Central Wisconsin Racing Association 25 lap Late Model Feature. Following Trickle was Jim Back and Marlin Walbeck. The Semi-Feature winner was Dick Schultz with the Consolation race win going to Dick Ames. Heat race winners were Ray Hoffman, Ray Knutson, Dave Marcis and Marv Marzofka. Fast time went to Walbeck at 14:02 seconds.
Photos "Thaw" race action Super Late Models heading into turn 3 at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., April 22nd, 2017 How many can you identify? Skylar Holzhausen in victory lane after taking both 55 lap Feature wins at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI. Jeff Blaser photo.
Dale's Pics from the past. Matt Kenseth #8 raced and won at the Golden Sands Speedway in 1989. Frank Nitzke is racing the full CWRA Stars to Legends Tour this year but how many of you remember Frank's Dad Stu? Here he is in his #90 Ford. Bob Bergeron photo
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
2017 May
By Dale P. Danielski
Being that we haven't gotten to that first short track race yet for 2017 we'll continue a bit as in last months column on the opening race topic. We'll take a look back through the years at openers we've made, whether the tracks or our own, and maybe throw in a circumstance or two from the events.
Years ago when we caught 75 to near 100 race events it was anyone's guess where we might start a season. Quite often it was in Florida somewhere or at an event on the way down there for Speedweeks. February 1976 caught us heading to New Smyrna Speedway, New Smyrna Beach, FL for some World Series racing action. Still in school it was Spring break for us so what better way to enjoy the time off than by driving 1200 miles to a short track race! The events we saw found Freddy Fryar, Donnie Allison, Jody Ridley, John Anderson and Gary Balough winning. It was really interesting to see the year and make of car competing and as a matter of fact winning during the Series as Fryar was driving a Pete Hamilton built 1972 Nova, Allison was in a 1974 Nova, Ridley won with a 1964 Ford Falcon and on the more normal side Anderson and Balough were in current year Camaros. At least 10 States were represented during the Series and it was with great difficulty after 10 days or so in sunny Florida that we headed back to snowy Wisconsin.
1985 found us heading south again and the first stop this time was to the Jax Raceway of Jacksonville, FL for a February 9th race. Some good old fashioned dirt racing was the order of the day and it was Jeff Purvis taking the 50 lap Feature win. We got a good dose of how they liked to do things south of the Mason Dixon line at this event as the main started straight up with fastest qualifier Purvis starting in front and running away with the race.
February 10, 1991 found us at Volusia County Speedway in Barberville, FL for some asphalt action. Volusia was flip flopping back and forth thru the years on which racing surface they would hold events on and in this event it was paved star Daniel Keene taking the asphalt surfaced win. Interesting to note that Wisconsin racers Tom and Steve Carlson finished 5th and 6th in the 30 lap main.
March of 1996 found us in New Mexico for some USMS action at the Southern New Mexico Speedway of Las Cruces. In traveling to this event you find yourself thinking that you can't get there from here as in from our roots in Iowa at the time. Days later we did indeed get there and saw Mark Noble (20 lap main) and Eddie Martin (40 lap Feature) the victors for the two day show.
For many years it was ARTGO starting out the Midwestern asphalt racing season at Rockford, IL., Speedway and that was the case in 1997 on April 6th. Unfortunately good intentions for the day went away quick as the race was snowed out! With that our opening race for the year was at the NASCAR Cup race in Bristol, TN. on 4/13/97. Jeff Gordon took that 500 lap win in our first ever visit to the high banked speedway.
It's always fun to make your opening race a Grand opening one at a speedway and on this occasion actually it was a grand re-opening of the Lafayette County Speedway of Darlington, WI., on April 14th 2000. Modifieds were the top billed class on this day and it was veteran Scott Nesteby taking the 20 lap Feature win on the 3/8 mile, weird shaped dirt track.
Definitely closer to home, about 2,000 miles closer as a matter of fact than New Mexico where we were years earlier we caught the opener at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., on April 10th, 2004. NASCAR Late Models were the top attraction and the day found 31 of them in action on the paved 5/8 mile oval. When the dust had cleared it was Charlie Menard taking the 25 lap Feature win followed by Kevin Nuttleman, Tony Bagstad, Andy Burgess and Steve Holzhausen.
The Chateau Raceway of Lansing, MN., had their opening event on 4/17/09 and we were there! Modifieds were the top attraction here and it was Mike Sorenson taking the Feature win. Sorenson was followed to the finish in the main by Steve Wettstein, Tommy Myer, Brad Waits and Doug Hillson.
With the Annual Frostbuster event coming up at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway this year on April 30th, that's where we found ourselves starting the season on April 26th, 2015. To absolutely no ones surprise it was Steve Carlson taking the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature win with Ty Majeski, Brad Powell, Harley Jankowski and Mike Carlson following.
And that of course gets us pretty close to up to date and by the time you read this we most certainly will have made several early season race events. Looking back in time at early 1971 season events held at La Crosse Interstate Speedway of West Salem WI., beginning with the May 7th opener taking main event wins were Jim Sauter, Jim Sauter, Jim Sauter, Marv Marzofka, Jim Sauter, and Marv Marzofka. Yes, Mr. Sauter went on to win the track championship that year with Marv Marzofka 2nd.
Here and there...What you have read is fake news. It was written by an anonymous party who doesn't exist and even if they did wouldn't tell you who they are as they are not supposed to be reporting this news before the media gets a hold of it. Can you believe that!
Dale's Pics from the past. Buck Simmons who did very well on both pavement and dirt raced at News Smyrna Speedway in this #81 in 1976. "Lil" John Provenzano #5 raced at Jax Raceway in 1985. Bristol Speedway, 1997 when tickets were hard to come by. #27 Tony Bagstad racing at Lax Fairgrounds in 2004.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
2017 April
By Dale P. Danielski
So how dumb is it to sit in 100 degree temperatures for over three hours with absolutely no shade to be found? Has to have something to do with racing for this scribe to do it and that is exactly what happened here March 19th as for the first time in probably 10 years we attended a NASCAR Cup race.
Phoenix, AZ in March has average high temperatures of 72 degrees or so. With a trip out west planned that sounded reasonable for an appearance at a Cup race at Phoenix International Raceway. Well, can you say record temps for the time chosen to catch a race here in cactus country? That's what happened for several days here but still, all in all a memorable experience.
I've always been partial to the shorter tracks at any level of the sport and the Phoenix track being a mile in length definitely fits in that category. Viewing at a venue like this is at a premium as there is very little you miss. As far as the racing itself you can sure tell when these drivers decide to race and when they are coasting. With the segment format NASCAR is using now there was a bit more competition at the end of each, but overall the real racing doesn't take place until near the end of the event. And of course with that mindset it's no wonder why there are wrecks at the very end of these races. Actually with the Phoenix event that wasn't going to happen and it appeared race leader Kyle Busch would coast to the win. A Joey Logano wall smacker changed that scenario however and it was into the pits for most teams with just a few laps left. It is too often at this point in this scribes observance that crew chiefs over think things as far as giving up track position with so little of the race left. I firmly believe had Busch stayed out for the restart he would have kept his advantage and won. That strategy obviously worked for Ryan Newman as he did stay out and won the race! Starting in front on these restarts is a huge advantage as well as the slowpoke starts NASCAR mandates puts anyone further back at a severe risk.
Oh well, the finish did create some additional excitement and I guess that is what NASCAR wants it's fans to see. That was certainly the case in this instance.
Here and there...We are getting to that part of the Spring when opening season events are set to take place. Not sure when we'll be catching our first short track race but still being quite early as time goes by there will be more and more opportunities.
We're seeing where the Marshalltown, Iowa Speedway is holding a $10,000 to win Modified race March 30th - April 1st, which of course barring bad weather will already have a winner before you read this. The Dells Raceway Park track of Wis. Dells, WI., will be holding their first event of the year April 9th with the Annual Icebreaker 100. Deer Creek Speedway of Racine, MN., will get things rolling there on April 15th. Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI., will get it's season kicked off under new ownership on April 22nd. We can remember attending many a Spring Classic at Rockford Speedway and the 40th running of that event will take place April 23rd. Mississippi Thunder Speedway, Fountain City, WI., will kick off their 2017 season with racing on April 28th. And close to home for us is the season opening Frostbuster event at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., April 30th. There are of course other tracks with openers coming up but with very few newspapers left to advertise said events you'll just have to hunt and peck around the internet as to where they are and when.
And looking back in time at some area tracks and when they held opening season events, on Sunday afternoon, April 29th, 1962 it was Augie Winkleman winning the Feature event at the AF Speedway of Friendship, WI. Following Winkleman was Les Katzner, Dick Trickle, Don Bandt and Merlin "Cappy" Zahr. Heat race winners were Winkleman and Bandt with the non money winners race going to Katzner. The Dash victor was Winkleman while fast time honors also went to Winkleman at 20:05 seconds which was a track record. On Monday afternoon, May 25th, 1964 it was Marv Marzofka in his 1957 Chevy taking the season opening race at the Black River Falls Speedway of Black River Falls, WI. Heat race winners were Howie Kittleson, Jerry Wagner and Augie Winkleman. Fast time honors went to Marlin Walbeck over 50 other competitors. On Saturday night April 30th, 1966 it was Dick Trickle outdistancing a 9 car field to win the season opening Feature race at the Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. Following Trickle were Dave Marcis, Tom Reffner, Rich Somers and Marv Marzofka. The Semi-Feature was won by Howie Kittleson with the Consolation race going to Bill Bembinster. Heat race winners were Bud Gawronski, LaVerne Weiland, Bud Schroeder and Reffner. Fast timer of the 42 cars on hand was Marzofka in a 1958 Ford at 14:03 seconds. On Sunday afternoon, April 21st, 1968 it was Marlin Walbeck winning the season opener at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI. The Semi-Feature went to Sonny Immerfall. Heat race winners were Wayne Kraft, Ed Walkush, Nelson Drinkwine and Walbeck. Consolation race winner was Larry Sparks in a 1961 Ford with Reffner setting fast time at 14:06 seconds. Estimated attendance for the race was 3,000. On Sunday afternoon April 5th, 1970 it was Tom Reffner in a 1967 Mercury Comet winning the season opening Feature at Capital Speedway of Oregon, WI. Following Reffner were Eddy Hume, Jim Back, Rich Somers and Mike Dolphin. Semi-feature honors went to Bill Retallick with the Non-money winners event going to Back. Heat race winners were Norm Bartnick, Ron Beyer and Reffner. Back set fast time at 20:12 seconds. And winning the opening day Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., April 24th, 2016 was Ty Majeski. Majeski was followed by Steve Carlson, Mike Carlson, Adam Degenhardt and Brad Powell...And in the Quote of the Column department it's "Never care about something more than those that should". That's from this scribe and it's been said in a number of instances both in racing and outside of it!
Dale's Pics from the past. 1975 #61 John Boegeman the Super America Black Knight. The #36 Joe Shear race car from 1995 racing season. Hotshoe Modified racers Ron Jones, Eddie Martin and Tim Donlinger talk strategy in 1996. 1997 #96 Johnny "The Jet Saathof racing his modified.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
2017 March
By Dale P. Danielski
It appears that an attempt is at least being made to get Super Late Model rules back to being uniform at Central Wisconsin paved tracks. The United Motorsports Association (UMA) has been formed with the intent of getting race tracks all under one rules umbrella once again.
The group consists of the tracks Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI., as well as the Tundra Series. The group is not only trying to get a handle on the fractured Super Late Model Division but also to get rules and procedures in place for Late Model, Sportsman, Modified, Hobbystock and 4 cylinder divisions of racing.
It just amazes this scribe how far from the formula that worked in the past through sanctioning groups things have gotten, especially for the Super Late Model class. First of all where did the moniker Super Late Model come from? For years we had Late Model, Sportsman and Hobbystock or Street stock divisions which were very identifiable by name alone and simplified matters for potential new drivers and fans to become interested in. Simple is good but somehow this deal got way out of hand. Most of the problem occurred when tracks decided to take on all responsibility for rules and procedures which included having to race on the tracks specified tire. Taking this away from sanction groups which were better equipped to handle these things resulted in the beginning of the end for racing as we were accustomed to seeing.
We hate to use the word end here and maybe if order can be restored starting out with the Super Late Model Division we have a fighting chance to renew interest in the sport at the short track level. The UMA group is initially attempting to equalize competition by car weight requirements, carburetion and to some extent the RPM chip usage that can be used at each track which will hopefully create a level playing field for the 18 different engine packages that currently exist. Yes, you read that right, that's how far out of control things have gotten. Years ago we laughed at the SCCA sanctioning body with their too many to count classes of racing. Little did we know our favorite sports pastime of short track racing would fall prey to the same situation!
I don't know that these three requirements are the total answer here but it is definitely a good starting point. Somewhere down the road it is this writers opinion that only certain engines should be allowed and that more restriction will have to take place as far as shocks, springs and race car bodies go. Some shock and body usage restriction is in place with UMA but it doesn't go far enough as far as cutting needless costs.
The group has also come up with a tire rule as the Hoosier 3035 can be used on the left side with the Hoosier F-80 allowed for the right side of the race car. In the past each track was independent with their tire choice but maybe something more uniform and that is handled by a "Group" or sanctioning body will eventually provide stronger implementation to put total uniformity back into that equation. The same compound tire being impounded at each racetrack only to be used at said track which was normal protocol was (is) just plain a bad idea. That scenario puts additional burden on tracks and promoters who should be dealing with marketing their product to fans instead of messing with tires. The tire deal all started with issues as far as detecting the softening o the tires. Well, everyone decided, we'll show you, racer, we'll make you give us your tires after each race event so you can't treat them away from the track. That really didn't work as well as tracks thought it would so here we are.
The UMA group is not a sanctioning body per se as the tracks will still be holding events on their normal nights for racing which means some conflict as far as racing on the same night against each other will take place. The group however has scheduled Tundra Series events and is also bringing back the successful from years past Wisconsin Challenge Series. These two Series will each have events at all the aforementioned tracks this year.
As we've said all the answers to the short track paved speedway problems probably aren't going to occur with this initial offering of rules, regulations and procedures but again, it is at least a starting point.
Here and there...We thinks the tire rule that the Central Wisconsin Racing Association has come up with for their series of races this year may just be the equalizer that UMA is trying to come up with for short track racing. The Towel City racing tire of choice has proven to have great wear characteristics and has been immune to softening agents, as no distinct advantage in competition has been found at this point. In addition, the tire is substantially cheaper than anything currently being used in the Super Late Model Division which should provide a huge plus in getting racers to get their cars out of the weeds and back on the race track! I'm not privy to what is going on in the majority of support divisions UMA is planning to set up uniform rules and procedures for, but I do know there are a lot of those divisions out there. A LOT of them out there, with little or no identity to differentiate one from the other. Not sure if a group of promoters will have the time for all these "sanctioning" type plans but again at least taking a step is more than has been done in the recent past... The new moniker for the CWRA series this year is "The Stars to Legends Tour." Where today's stars become tomorrow's legends. Very appropo as the group has certainly produced many Star racers who went on to become legends of the sport. It is the intent once again of CWRA to promote its drivers as such which can only help to create more involvement from racers and extra excitement for fans...
Looking back in time it was Nate Haseleu winning the 75 lap Wisconsin Challenge Series Feature at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., on May 19, 2002. Following Haseleu were Chris Weinkauf, Jeff Weinfurter, Jeremy Lepak and Mark Eswein. Looking further back in time it was Jim Back winning the season finale 30 lap Feature at Black River Falls Speedway, Black River Falls, WI., on September 5th, 1966. Back was followed by Dick Trickle and Marv Marzofka. The semi-feature went to Orv Buelow. Marzofka was crowned 1966 season champion at the track. Michigan drivers Ed Howe and Tom Maier were publicity hyped to come to the Midwest Championship September 9-10, 1972 at Dells Motor Speedway and "Blow the doors off" the Wisconsin drivers. They fared quite well with Maier placing 3rd in the 200 lapper and Howe 4th. A couple of Wisconsin drivers with their doors very much intact, Dick Trickle and Marv Marzofka, finished 1st and 2nd. Interesting to note that both Howe and Maier raced together on the track as teammates for the entirety of the 200 lap race. Neither was ever more than a car length away from the other, even swapping positions now and then.
Dale's Pics from the past. #87 Nate Haseleu in the Golden Sands Speedway pit area prior to winning the 75 lap WCS race there in 2002. #61 Jimbo Back in the Jim's Custom Shop Ford. #91 Marv Marzofka. Marzofka won 32 Features with this car in 1972. #67 Ed Howe #70 Tom Maier.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
2017 February
By Dale P. Danielski
Pretty neat to see that the Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI., will be celebrating a 50 year Anniversery this year. Of course I've written about the little high speed track in the past but it never gets old talking about it, especially since I've been involved off and on with the place for practically my entire life!
Now that the track has new ownership it appears that another 50 years of racing is a possibility and I'll be there the entire way supporting the effort even at a spry 109 years of age.
The Plover track is one of the few these days that really doesn't have issues with urban sprawl as it is all farming and industry in the area. We seem to be losing so many tracks anymore due to neighbors complaints and increasing land values for construction of something other than a racing facility. The few homes reasonably close to this track have race fans inhabiting them so problems in that regard have been practically non-existent. There have been discussions through the years of one of the big potato producers in the region turning it into additional farming acreage but that has never materialized. Rumors of a trucking company going in there never reached fruition either. That is all well and good as having grown up in Central Wisconsin and followed all the stars that have raced there it only seems right it should remain a racetrack. Furthermore it just seems likes the Plover, Wisconsin Rapids populace's have always been racing oriented producing many race cars and the fans to follow them.
Of course if it were not for Sam Bartus building the track back in 1967 who knows how long we would have waited to witness super fast, paved, short track racing on a high banked oval, as flat asphalt tracks ruled the roost in the early 1960s. Maybe it was more luck and a little anger mixed in that it happened as Bartus was peeved by losing his lease at the nearby Griffith Park Speedway which he also built and ran. A so typical through the years "spite" track to get at the other promoter, but in this case it turned out a lot more positive than negative as the sport was changing and a track of this design fit right into the soon to be new era of racing. Everything from land purchase to out buildings and the construction of the facility itself including the race track cost Bartus $100,000. Try to find even a parcel of land for a commercial use for that price today. Not going to happen. Of course that's why so many of the tracks throughout the land that have been shuttered and gobbled up never get replaced as what would it cost to replace them in today's dollars?
So it was with Sam Bartus building his new "Super" Speedway and promising great things for racing. He wasn't wrong as the oval located half way between Plover and Wisconsin Rapids brought great car counts and huge throngs of fans from everywhere right from the onset. It's well documented that Dick Trickle won the first ever Feature race at the speedway, a 25 lap affair, on Thursday night, May 25th, 1967 and the speedway certainly helped him further his career as this type of experience on a high speed track could take you nearly anywhere in the Country and be capable of winning. Trickle wasn't the only one as it's truly amazing how many great race drivers have tried their hand at conquering the "Sands oval. Of course 50 years of longevity certainly helps in that regard. Just looking at some that have raced there and this is a very PARTIAL list, hard to believe I know, include: Trickle, Tom Reffner, who by the way won the first extra length Feature at the track a 50 lapper on May 30th, 1967, Marv Marzofka, Marlin Walbeck, Jim Back, Dave Marcis, Lyle Nabbefeldt, Dave Field, Gordie Clay, Rich Somers, Jere O'Day, Jerry Smith, Sonny Immerfall, Nelson Drinkwine, Randy Sweet, Ramo Stott, Andy Hampton, Mark Martin, John Ziegler, Joe Kryzkowski, Mike Miller Joe Shear, Ron Beyer, John Brevik, Larry Detjens, Dan Prziborowski, Neil Callahan, Jim Sauter, John Reimer, Dave Watson, Jon Chrest, Bob Jusola, Whitey Harris, Kevin Stepan, Kirby Kurth, Don James, Tom Jensen, Dale Walworth, Bill Wirtz, Dick Duerst, Fuzzy Fassbender, Neil Sederberg, Dick St. John, Bryan Reffner, Kevin Peterson, Kevin Nuttleman, Steve Holzhausen, Don "Thunder" Turner, Allen Check, Larry Baumel, Gary Back, Fritz Bishofberger, Joe Jones, Don Bandt, Orv Buelow, M.G. Gajewski, Bill Retallick, Larry Sparks, Harold "Fluff" Furo, Eugene Gregorich, Jr., Harold Oaks, Don Trapp, Ken Mras, Terry Bivins, Roger Cummings, Kevin Cywinski, Larry Steinback, Dick Bently, Joe Milanowski, Ev Fox, Don Rodah, Ron Breeze Jr., John McNamara, Homer Spink, Les Katzner, Dick Schultz, (Why in the World did I even attempt to come up with such a list) Steve Moll, Todd Stapleman, Wayne Breitenfeldt, Orv Buelow, Ron Waite, Dick Severson, Warren Droesser, Chuck Green and Chuck Green, Jeff Weinfurter, Delmar Kemnetz, Matt Kenseth, Harold Mueller, "Dago" Louie Vetrone, Roy Schmidtke, Morrie Piotrowski, Jason Weinkauf, Ed Nichols, Pete Mahlum, Tom Schaller, Rex Rossier, Chris Weinkauf, Bucky Linhart, Cal Breezer, Rocky Breezer, Fred Beckler, La Vern Grandal, Steve Carlson, Bob Mackesy, Greg Delap, Floyd Fairfield, Steve Burgess, Roy Bohm, Jason Schuler, John Pleuss, Jim Bohmsach, Larry Anderson, Les Laub, Jim Hornung, Ted Musgrave, Bobby Turzinski, Ty Majeski, Mike Reichenberger, Frank Nitzke, Mark Eswein, Bryan Roach, Jerry Peterson, Mike Mattson, Les Back, "Cub" Rezin, Rick Haase, Rick Somers, Bob Senneker, Lyle Nowak, Rene Scheinoha, Dalton Zehr, Bob Fox, Cecil Henderson, Jeannie Kind, Keith Witt, Rick Wateski, Neil Knoblock, Donnie Woller, Tim Sauter, Rory Melbinger, Wayne Lodholz, Eddie Hoffman, Scott Wimmer, Christian Elder, Shane Sparks, Gary Porter, Don Hanneman, Rory Melbinger, Jim Ross, Bart Horstman.
Of course with any good thing comes some controversy at some point and with Sam Bartus running things there was a fair share of that. Track safety issues among other things caused a driver boycott of the track in 1969 which saw it closed for several months. Once the problems were worked out however it was back to business and the track continued under Sam's promotional hand for a number of years. In the words of long time racer, promoter, and restaurant/bar owner Jere O'Day, "Sam was great at getting things built but always struggled with financing and running the tracks afterward." Unfortunately that ultimately caused Sam to lose the track but others came in and kept the speedway open. The list of those included Jere'O'Day and Dean Spohn, Paul Kaczrowski, Ralph Jacobson, Phil Bickley, Terry Preuser, and most recently Darrell Basseuner. There was a period of five years just before the Preuser reign that the track was closed but continued to be classified as a race track and grandfathered in utilizing originally agreed on bylaws and regulations by holding at least one event a year. Impromptu events were held but that eventually ended as well and the track to re-open had to get up to current standards to operate. Preuser was the first to attempt it along with yours truly. Accomplishing this was no small feat as trying to get up to date to current Township and County regulations and standards required a bunch of time and money to conform. The track was supposed to reopen early in 1988 but it wasn't until the Fall of the year that it finally did. The improvements were great and the track itself held up quite well considering all the years of inactivity and racing much to the of area fans was back! In another one of those trivial but yet significant moments it was Mike Reichenberger the first driver to take to the track for the re-opening race. Preuser's stay was quite short but it can't be underestimated how important he was in getting the place reopened to allow racing to happen again. The Basseuner family took it a step further especially as far as physical improvements and as a result the venue is considered one of the best in the State.
And that now brings the track to its current state with Mark Smiley and son Cody in control. What that means for now is to hold a full season of race events which hasn't happened in quite some time. Other improvements will be made and additional events are planned. The original group of racers participating back when the track first opened, the Central Wisconsin Racing Association will have events at the track this year as well. Things that go around so often come around and if all the excitement that was created from day one is back and maintained, the track hopefully will see another 50 years of racing. In this case we can only hope History does repeat itself.
Here and there...The Teepee Supper Club of Tomah, WI., was torn down here recently. That may not mean much to most people but the Club when owned by Francis Kelly was a huge supporter of Dick Trickle's racing efforts. Kelly helped Trickle on a local scale but was also instrumental in getting Dick into USAC stock car racing as well as in some NASCAR races in the 1960s...Promoters from Wisconsin tracks Dells Motor Speedway, State Park Speedway, Marshfield Motor Speedway, Golden Sands Speedway and the TUNDRA Series have gotten together to form the United Motorsports Association. The group is hoping to come up with standardized rules for a number of different classes of short track paved racing which at this point is needed but will take a gargantuan effort to pull off. The group has also rekindled the long running and very successful Wisconsin Challenge Series with events to be held at the aforementioned tracks...Well now NASCAR Cup after originally stealing short tracks Nationwide Thunder by taking Saturday nights for holding their Cup events have now decided to steal the format short tracks have used for their programs for as long as anyone can remember. That being multiple races making up each event for their scheduled shows. NASCAR is calling them separate segments making up one race but basically they are trying to duplicate what short tracks do across the land. Has NASCAR ever come up with anything on their own? We'll see how all this shakes out as the new format will begin with the Daytona 500 February 26th....
And, looking back at on July 5th, 1970 it was Marv Marzofka winning the 50 lap Feature at Golden Sands Speedway. Following Marzofka were Tom Reffner, Bill Wirtz, Roy Schmidtke and George Thornton. On 8/16/1996 it was Wayne Breitenfeldt taking the Late Model Feature race win at Golden Sands Speedway. Rick Somers was 2nd followed by Bobby Turzinski. On August 10th, 1997 it was Eddie Hoffman taking the ARTGO Series 100 lap Feature win at Golden Sands Speedway. Following Hoffman were Steve Carlson, Joe Shear, Ron Breeze, Jr., and Rex Rossier.
Dale's Pics from the past. Some of the many Golden Sands Speedway racers. Jim Hornung #7, Tom Jensen #9, Steve Burgess #12 and Jim Weber #28, #36 Joe Shear, #87 Bryan Reffner, #56 Larry Anderson, Tim Sauter #5 Marv Marzofka, #52 Bart Horstman. Photo credits to Bob Bergeron, Marg/Farar, Mussoni collection, Dale P. Danielski.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
2017 January
By Dale P. Danielski
Was sorry to hear of the passing of racing promoter Lanny Edwards. Unbeknownst to most, much of what this scribe has been involved in has been with the asphalt group of racing, but there was a time frame of 6 years or so when dirt was the deal and Mr. Edwards played a big role in that.
The open wheel modified class of car was going berserk across the Nation as cars numbering in the thousands were being built and raced everywhere. There really wasn't any one group running a National series to reward the top shoes of the division and two guys with a plan, myself and Doug Sheckler decided to change that.
Consequently the United States Modified Series was born to allow the best of the best to compete against each other in head to head competition throughout the land. The beauty of the Series however was that the hometown hero could also compete against the traveling pros as rules were the same wherever the cars were raced making for a level playing field.
Every Series needs a race and races have to be contested at a track so who is going to help launch the fledgling series? Enter one Lanny Edwards promoter of Devils Bowl Speedway of Mesquite, TX.
Actually, it took some time discussing the Series plan with numerous individuals before the race could be scheduled and the time of year, Fall of 1994, made for limited options. Successful race promoter Emmett Hahn who worked closely with Edwards thought Lanny might just be the one to kick off such an endeavor as he had done just that with the first ever World Of Outlaws Sprint car race. Favoring the open wheel set in most of his promotions anyway, Edwards would be the logical choice promoting the inaugural USMS open wheel modifed event, right? As it turned out, yes, as Hahn who was more familiar with the modified type car gently coaxed Edwards into having the show, a two day event, October, 14-15, 1994.
A normal purse pay-out for a USMS event was set at $2,000 to win with $200 to start the main event. But Edwards wanted to go much bigger than that so a $7,000 to win Feature event was chosen! Before two rookie promoters could say OH **** the event was on!
Race day dawned October 14th and everyone was optimistic there would be a good turnout of cars. But when the 115th car checked in and there was nowhere to put everybody optimism turned to elation. The biggest problem at that point was finding something large enough to put all the entry fee (The USMS take of the promotion) and pit pass (Devil's Bowl take for purse pay-off) money into!
Day one race action was fantastic with David James winning the 15 lap preliminary main event, but a terrible forecast for wet weather turned into reality and day two's $7,000 to win main event was postponed until the Spring of 1995 as no suitable date was available to get the show in that year. Rescheduling postponed races is almost never successful and unfortunately with the Spring race set for March 26th, 1995, that was the case as the car count was way down and a poor crowd attended. Van Gemmill was still pleased with the final result as he won the 40 lap main event make up race and took the $7,000 home that went with it. The less than expected outcome however proved to be the end of the Lanny Edwards/USMS collaborating on race events as no such shows were ever scheduled again. But, I can only look back with fond memories and a great appreciation for Lanny, as he stuck his neck out to promote a grand show for a couple new promoters in the business with a new vision for racing. Although the inaugural event didn't go as planned the Series proved very popular for fans and drivers alike for the next five years and is still talked about to this day. If not for Lanny Edwards taking on that first USMS event the series may never have gotten off the ground!
Here and there...How many 72 year old rookie of the year candidates do you know of? Well I know exactly one and he happens to be local racer Don "Thunder" Turner. Turner decided to race at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., full time in 2016 and after placing 6th in final NASCAR Late Model points was declared the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series "Rookie of the Year" for Wisconsin. As Thunder himself stated after receiving the award, "Go Figure!"...The Central Wisconsin Racing Association has 8 firm dates thus far for its Series of racing in 2017. Finally seeing some light at the end of the tunnel the group will hold events at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI., Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., and Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI. The latter two tracks are new additions to this years slate and additional dates may be added....Speaking of Golden Sands, it has been purchased by Mark Smiley from the Basseuner family who after many improvements and a long run promoting it have decided to get out of the racing business. Smiley plans a full schedule of racing to include at least 15 events which is a big departure from the half dozen or so held the last several years...So it's now the NASCAR Monster Energy Cup Series. I don't think even Monster can muster up enough energy to wake those dosing during Cup events. It will take a BIG dose for sure...In the quote of the column department, it's many time Champion Kevin Nuttleman who hasn't raced in some time attending Champions Reunion VIII this past year as part of 'Fest racing. "I'm not sure I'm ready to be attending an event like this with all these "retired" racers...And in the other quote of the column, making up for some we missed it's Ken Schrader who we at USMS had conversations with pertaining to modified racing and who did participate in some Series events, "How in the hell did you ever talk Lanny Edwards into paying that purse?" $7,000 was a lot for that inaugural event but the show did go on!
And in our looking back in the past feature for the column, on September 16th, 1967 it was Dick Trickle winning the 100 lap State Championship Feature at Golden Sands Speedway. Trickle took home $1,195.00 for the win. Dave Field followed in 2nd with 3rd going to Jim Back. The 50 lap Semi-feature went to Nelson Drinkwine followed by Everett Fox and Larry Baumel. 25 lap Consolation race honors went to Wayne Kittleson followed by Jerry Stephen and John Brevik. The Non-qualifiers race was won by Tom Schaller with Hilarian Michlig and Ed Walkush in 2nd and 3rd. In the season finale, August 31st, 1967 it was Marlin Walbeck winning the Feature event at State Park Speedway. Following Walbeck were Lyle Nabbefeldt, Tom Reffner and Dave Field. The Semi-feature went to Neil Callahan with Larry Baumel and Orv Buelow next. Heat race winners were Dennis Trickle, Bob Hofschild, Callahan and Walbeck. Consolation race winner was Vern Losser. Dick Trickle had fast time at 15:38 seconds. On September 2nd 1967 it was Dick Trickle winning the Season Championship 50 lap Feature at Dells Motor Speedway. Marlin Walbeck finished 2nd. The 30 lap Semi-feature went to Orv Buelow. The first Consolation race went to Willie Hammond with the 2nd Consy going to Lou Kander. Heat race winners were Art Link, Dennis Rank, Mel Richolson and Bud Schroeder. Fast time went to Trickle at 13:68 seconds. And on July 3rd, 2001 it was the MARS sanctioned race at Marshfield Super Speedway. Finishing first in the 100 lap Feature was Todd Kleuver followed by Mark Eswein, Rory Melbinger, Chris Weinkauf and Judd Brandl. Heat race winners were Dean La Pointe, Rod Wheeler, and Dan Mills. Pete Kempf won the Last chance race. Eric Franzen had fast time.
Dale's Pics from the past. Van Gemmill $7,000 winner of USMS Outlaw Modified Nationals, Devils Bowl Speedway, Mesquite, TX., 3/26/95. #3 Kelly Shryock never lost a USMS Championship, five for five. (Owen Richards photos) Marlin Walbeck winning the National Short Track 200 in 1967 at Rockford, IL., Speedway. Checkered flag presenter is promoter Hugh Deery. The Dick Trickle Granada #99 1976, a car you didn't get to see race much as it was always in the shop getting Wreck Repair. Don "Thunder" Turner # 7 2016 Rookie? Don "Thunder" Turner posing back in the '70s before becoming a Rookie contender. ( Mussoni photo collection)
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
November Online 2016
By Dale P. Danielski
Our race chasing season concluded here with Matt Rowe's Impact Survival Series "Creepy Classic" event at State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI. Of course with a name like that you already know this is not one of those races for the purists out there. And if you couldn't tell that by the name you might be a bit suspicious of a race that starts 80 cars like this one did!
There actually is some pretty darn competitive racing that goes on at these events but more importantly it's about the entertainment value. Certainly there is some money to be made if you can finish in one of the top spots, but it's more about having fun than anything else. And having fun these drivers do as you never know for sure what you might see them do throughout any given part of a race. That's a lot of opportunity by the way as this race was 300 laps long!
When all the fires were out, when all the rubber was laid down, when all the pieces of plastic and metal from 80 racing machines was cleaned up, it was Zack Schelhaas being declared the winner. A first time winner, Zack was pretty pleased with his effort even though as per Series rules he had to give up his car to event promoter Rowe or forfeit his winnings. That kind of ruling may seem a bit harsh but it certainly makes for a level playing field. Actually, looking at the Schelhaas racer there was nothing fancy about the car, so I have to believe he came out on the long end of the deal. In this day an age of ultra expensive race cars these kind of events are definitely a refreshing departure from what you normally see, fun racing for competitors and great entertainment for fans. If you are thinking of attending an ISS event you'll have to wait until January 1st, 2017, yes you read that right as that's when the new season will kick off at 141 Speedway of Francis Creek, WI.
Of course we would certainly be remiss if we didn't mention attending the 47th Annual Oktoberfest Racing weekend at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., here October 6-9. Most of the racing part of the weekend can be summed up in two words; Ty Majeski. Majeski was the Champion of everything he competed in during the weekend with the exception of the Dick Trickle 99 event on Friday of 'Fest. He actually won that event on the track as well, except an infraction going through tech nullified the victory. The 200 lap finale, the ARCA Midwest Tour race on Sunday went to Majeski for his first win in the race which also clinched the 2016 Tour Championship for the NASCAR bound driver. The win was also the first ever after 36 years of trying for crew chief Brian "Toby" Nuttleman. Nuttleman has had too many to list here "shoes" pilot race cars he's wrenched on, but finally this year it all came together and he got his first win. For Majeski there really isn't anything left at this level to accomplish other than maybe winning the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Tour National Championship, or one particular race at the Dells that got away and consequently he's doing some ARCA racing before moving into top tier NASCAR which ultimately is expected to get him into a Cup ride in the near future. A lot is different in NASCAR land and we can only hope he gets a fair shot at it at the top level of sport.
Here and there...Looking at final results of the Creepy Classic ISS race at State Park Speedway we see where two cars completed the full 300 laps. Eddie Muenster, a successful racer for a lot of years in a number of different race cars finished 2nd to Schelhaas also completing the full distance. Dan Van Pay who placed 7th in the event was declared the 2016 Champion of the Series...Ty Majeski captured all three 21 lap segments of the JMcK 63 on Sunday. That has never been done before and I'd suspect it will be a long time if ever to happen again...After putting his car on it's roof and sliding into the infield at the Rockford National Short Track Championships, Dan Gilster figured out in a hurry that's not how you should go about winning a race. After righting the car and amazingly finishing the race there, Gilster checked things over finding little to nothing wrong with the race car before bringing it to 'Fest and walking off with the win in the 40 lap Mid-American Feature...Kyle Stark was a double winner on the weekend taking the Midwest Dash Series Feature as well as the always crazy Double O race which utilizes both the big and small tracks. Stark likes to race whenever and wherever he can, (He also competed in the Creepy Classic at State Park where he finished 5th.) and being from a time when racers competed numerous times a week I can appreciate that! ...Brad Warthan can now call himself an Oktoberfest race winner as he won the biggest race of his career, the Sportsmen Feature on day one of the 'Fest racing weekend...On a somber note, the 'Fest racing weekend brought the end of life for long time racer Joe Rinartz who died in his sleep at the track early Sunday morning. Joe ran many laps here and at other tracks in the area and was certainly taken away far too soon...And sad, is the leaving the sport by a couple of popular drivers in the area. Two time NASCAR champion at Lax. Fairgrounds J. Herbst announced that the Sunday 'Fest events would be his last. It's also looking like the Sunday 'Fest event could have been the last for Skylar Holzhausen as Father Steve has put the race car up for sale. Of course if the car doesn't sell and offers come from elsewhere...Another driver calling it quits after a very successful career in racing is the Fox Valley's Mike Reichenberger. Mike has raced and won in many different Series at numerous tracks but has decided that 2016 is his last year. Mike competed in a 75 lap Feature at Norway Michigan Speedway which was the only time he raced this year and won the event! If you're saying this is the end of your racing what a way to go out! Mike will now concentrate on son Brandon's efforts as he continues up the racing ladder...Champions Reunion VIII was a big success in 2016 as part of 'Fest racing weekend as a turnout of over 60 strong were on hand for the event Sunday. Cool to see old and restored race cars bearing names from the past of Dick Trickle, Paul Tradup, Mert Williams, Cecil Henderson Mike Miller and the Mike Wall racing machine on hand for the show as well. If sponsorship can be obtained it looks like the event could again happen in 2017...After finally making a bit of forward progress in 2016, the Central Wisconsin Racing Association is looking to book dates for 2017. The Towel City Racing Tire provided excellent, side by side racing and proved very economical for racers to compete on this past season. Other cost saving measures will be looked at during the off season with the hopes of building car count at the various tracks it competes at in 2017. The hope is to have 8-10 such race events next year...
And in our looking back in the past feature for the column, on October 12th, 1980 it was Mark Martin being declared the overall winner of Oktoberfest at the Fairgrounds of West Salem, WI. Martin and Joe Shear split the two 100 lap Feature events with Martin out qualifying Shear which served as the tie breaker...On Sptember 26th, 1999 it was Steve Carlson winning the Remax Challenge Series NASCAR Touring event 400 lap Feature as part of the Winston National Short Track Championships at Rockford, IL., Speedway. Following Carlson at the finish were Eddie Hoffman, Jason Schuler, Jimmy Mars, Larry Middleton, Jon Lemke, Brian Hoppe, Pete Moore, Mark Kraus and Keith Buskeros. Looking back at October 5th, 2003 it was Tim Schendel winning the 250 lap Oktoberfest feature finale...Looking back to Thursday night, September 10th, 1970 it was season championship night at State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI. Winning the 40 lap Feature was Dick Trickle followed by Jim Back, Larry Detjens, Marlin Walbeck and Dick Schultz. Heat race winners were Schultz, Back and Detjens with the Dash winner Trickle. Fast time on the night also went to Trickle at 14:87 seconds.
Dale's Pics, past and present. The #18 Camaro Mike Miller drove in 1981 restored to original by Dan Navrestad. 2009 La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway track Champion J. Herbst. Skylar Holzhausen #78 on the way to a Feature win in 2009. The #30 Dave Marcis Larry Wehrs Chev sponsored Chevelle. Dave started his racing career at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
October 2016
By Dale P. Danielski
I don't think you ever totally take the "Racer" out of a racer. Case in point would be Dave Tradup, a successful racer for many years out of Viola, MN.
Tradup is from a racing family as his Father Paul did very well in the sport racing on both dirt and pavement in East Central Minnesota. Dave's brothers also raced so it was inevitable Dave would get behind the wheel as well.
Of course the sport at some point will wear you down, and you either become satisfied and keep doing what you are doing at whatever level that may be, get out of the racing game entirely, or pick another avenue of speed. In Tradup's case it was not exactly a normal, natural progression, as a matter fact it was more of an escalation of sorts as his avenue of choice was attempting to set a land speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats!
So now instead of racing around dirt and pavement bull rings in Minnesota and Wisconsin, Dave would be taking his wheel driven missile shaped racing machine in a straight line down a runway of salt at over 200 miles per hour! The goal for Dave as he headed to Utah back in August was to average right around 250 miles per hour which would be a new record for his class of car that featured a 304 CI V-8 engine producing 685 horse power. The team got up to speed quite quickly and reached a top speed of 253.5 miles per hour. In order to set the record however they had to average in that 250 mph range over a certain amount of miles which unfortunately due to mechanical issues they were unable to do. Their average of 245.3 mph is certainly not a speed to take lightly and having been so close this year, Tradup Racing Enterprises plans another trip out to the flats in 2017. With what they have learned and a couple changes with their car mechanically they plan this time to come home with the record.
In talking to Dave I asked him how big a difference it was going over 200 in a straight line compared to racing in circles at 100 mph or so. And according to him once you got up to the 200-250 mph speed it really was not that noticeable how fast you were going. I guess it's similar to race cars going over 200 on an oval track. You don't really notice the element of speed until you hit something! In Dave's case he was fortunate and didn't have that happen although he did mention having one finger on the parachute release button just in case the car started to get away from him. That actually did happen to some extent, but with the parachute deployment, the car slows drastically and very quickly and in turn gets straightened out before disaster can hit.
Like I said earlier, you really never totally take the "Racer" out of a racer. Some aspect of it may be gone but in Dave Tradup's case it was filled in with something at least as much if not more exciting and fulfilling.
And speaking of Tradup, his Salt Flats car was on display at Elmer Duellman's Annual Racing Reunion in Fountain City the weekend of September 17-18. In looking at the car up close you wouldn't really think it was capable of speeds in excess of 200 miles per hour, but upon further inspection underneath the tube shaped shell, you can see some pretty tricked up stuff that enables you to reach those speeds. A really cool deal to say the least. And of course at the Reunion we were able to view a number of race cars from days gone by. And with the cars, of course a number of drivers that raced back in the day were on hand as well. All the storytelling broke out and as usual it was a fun time for all the one day we were there. Again, I can't emphasize enough for those that haven't been to Elmer's Auto and Toy Museum to make a trip there if you get the chance. There is so much cool stuff there I guarantee you will not leave disappointed. Elmer's is open into October so go to the website www.elmersautoandtoymuseum.com and see what days you can attend.
Here and there...With a huge field of cars and weather issues throwing a wrench into things the big A Feature finale of the Modified Nationals at Mississippi Thunder Speedway, Fountain City, WI., turned into a Marathon. Just now wrapping things up, here comes Ryan Gustin taking the checkered flag, your A Mod main event winner! The big paying B mod main has just ended with Michael Truscott taking the win! I'm sure those two aren't complaining about the lengthy program as the wins were worth a whopping $40,000 and $20,000 respectively...Scott Bloomquist was at the Fountain City race placing 2nd in the A Mod Feature. Of course as most have heard Bloomquist has filed a lawsuit against Eldora Speedway and others over having been disqualified twice there for tire and weight infractions. Litigation of this nature could be the death knell for the sport as we know it and in Bloomquist's case going for a settlement of 16.5 million just isn't warranted. Rules are in place for a reason and someone has to make a determination in these instances. Take your lumps and move on, don't try to ruin the sport over something you are more than likely guilty of...Interesting how things shook out in the final CWRA race of the year at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., 9/24/16. It seems the group was able to run one of the cleanest events of the night with side by side, competitive racing the norm. That in itself wouldn't be a big surprise but winner Mark Eswein won the 25 lap event racing on tires that had at least three nights on them with a like number of race drivers using them previously. Eswein just bolted the tires on his car and without any set up changes won the race! Even more surprising was 2nd place finisher Kirby Kurth taking that spot with tires rescued from the dump! The tire the group is running this year is the Towel City Racing Tire, the harder compound of the two options available, and by all accounts it has proven more economical for racers in terms of initial cost and repeat-ability. That's what the group has set out to do, make racing affordable again with the tire choice being the first of a number of steps to reduce costs. Dells Raceway Park management was impressed with the racing by the group on the night as well. According to Manager Jerry Auby, "That was the only race of the night where they didn't have a big wreck." Track owner Wayne Lensing also noted the side by side racing taking place and was quite impressed. CWRA is looking at shocks, body rules and other areas in their rules package for 2017 to again make racing at this level affordable again. They are off to a good start with their tire selection...
In the quote of the column department, and there's actually several here, we need a bit of a background lead in. Of course everyone knows of the successes of Steve Carlson. He's won everywhere and a lot. But in talking to his brother Tom, no slouch in racing either we learned that the Wisconsin International Raceway of Kaukauna, WI., was one that took a bit longer for Steve to conquer. According to Tom " I was following J.J. Smith there and boy did I learn a lot about how to get around that place." At a race that both Tom and Steve were at Steve didn't make the show while Tom got a top 5 in the main event. According to Tom "I noticed Steve wasn't in the race, here he was on his hauler waiting to get out of the pits and head home. He came over to me and pretty humble looking asked, "Can you show me how to get around this place.? Tom pretty much unbelieving his brother would ask, promptly responded, "Come with me I'll show you around." He rode with me and learned the right line just like I had, and from then on Steve was fast, eventually winning a number of races at Kaukauna!"
And looking back in time to July 22nd, 1972 it was John Brevik taking his second consecutive Late Model Feature event win at the North La Crosse Speedbowl of La Crosse WI. Following Brevik were Don Grant, Al Kroes, Don Turner and Larry Anderson... August 19th, 1978 it was Steve Holzhausen winning his first ever Feature race in Late Model competition as he took the 30 lap main event at the Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. Following Holzhausen at the stripe were Mike Miller, Marv Marzofka, Tom Musgrave and Ted Musgrave the top 5....On June 11th, 1987 it was Rick Haase taking the Late Model Feature win at Wausau's State Park Speedway. Following Haase were Tom Reffner, Jim Back, Wayne Lodholz and Perry Redeker. In the Hobbystock main it was Terry Marzofka taking his 6th win of the season followed by Keith Witt, Darwin Brunow, Nick Erickson and Don Woller...On June 26th, 1991 it was Mark Lamoreaux winning the CWRA Late Model Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Following Lamoreaux were Bryan Reffner, Steve Holzhausen, Steve Carlson and Tim Sauter. The Sportsman Feature went to Mike Koeneke followed by Kurt Thicke, Scott Helmers, John Stasiak and Terry Miller...Looking back to May 30th, 1991 it was Tom Carlson winning the 30 lap late Model Feature at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI. Following Carlson at the line were Jim Weber, Rod Wheeler, J.J. Smith and Steve Paoli...
And in closing, don't forget to make it out to Oktoberfest 47 at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., October 5-9, 2016. Way too much racing to try and list it all here but believe me there will be something if not a number of things going on during the weekend you will enjoy. And of course as part of the racing event is Champions Reunion VIII to be held Sunday October 9th, from 11am-2pm in the Hospitality Chalet in the turn one grandstand area. This part of the weekend will feature racers from the past doing what they do best, b.s.-ing about all their racing accomplishments. Fans with a Sunday ticket can get in on the fun and attend free of charge. A number of old time race cars will also be on hand for all to enjoy. Just a sampling of some of the racers that will be at the reunion include, Tom Carlson, Roy Bohm, Rory Melbinger, Tom Reffner, John Rogge, Les Katzner, Rick Hauser, John Brevik, Nelson Drinkwine, Pat Durnen, Paul Thicke, Ron Waite, Steve Holzhausen, John Bell, Bruce Backus, Jim Hendricks, Tom Jones, Marv Marzofka, and more than 50 others the way it looks!
In the Dale’s pics from the past category it’s the Dave Tradup Bonneville Salt Flats car #2201. #75 a Dave Noble driven coupe. Dave was a top shoe racing pavement and dirt in the 1960s and '70s. One of the coolest creations ever, the Mert Williams wagon #96.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
September 2016
By Dale P. Danielski
When you see that word Championship in a sentence it usually means the racing season is winding down. I wish I could say Mid-Season Championship but we indeed are getting to the end of the 2016 racing campaign in these parts.
Perhaps the earliest season ending race (Unless your track is closing) we’ve experienced happened here August 5th at the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI. Usually track season championships are just starting to heat up around that time of year but not in this case as GS ended their racing season of six races on this day. A great crowd was on hand for the event and 23 Super Late Models, one of the better turnouts for a weekly race we’ve seen on pavement this year, and more than enough cars in four other divisions made for some very entertaining racing. And, we can even say we witnessed a Feature race that Ty Majeski didn’t win! Of course he wasn’t racing here tonight but nonetheless that says something for how dominant Majeski has been as we’ve seen almost nobody else win a main event in a top division at any tracks and we generally get to more shows than most! Actually it was Dalton Zehr taking the main event on the night. Zehr has had a very good season of racing but has unfortunately been doing it in the shadow of Majeski who has had another stellar season of racing.
Speaking of Majeski we did again see him win at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI. on August 6th. Our next event attended was at Lax. on August 13th and we saw, yes you are reading this right Brad Powell take the 20 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature win! Of course it was back to normal routine on August 20th at the Speedway as Majeski won not just one, but two 20 lap NASCAR Late Model main events. Lost in the shuffle is the fact Steve Carlson has actually won four Features at the track this year. Even more phenomenal is the fact until August 20th he had won or placed no worse than 2nd in all Feature races at the track this year. Adam Degenhardt finally broke Carlson’s 2nd place streak this past Saturday by taking that spot in one of the mains. Carlson’s consistency has however resulted in another track Championship, his 4th in a row, as only Oktoberfest remains for NASCAR Late Model racing at the track this year with nobody close enough to catch him.
Here and there…It appears Ty Majeski with his two Feature wins at La Crosse Fairgrounds August 20th has a legitimate shot at winning the Whelen All American Series National Championship. Ever since Larry Phillips circumvented everything NASCAR tried to do with its point system to win numerous National Championships, I have no idea what is required these days, but it would be pretty cool to see someone here racing local win it. With Majeski moving on to bigger things this may be the last chance fans get to see something like this... Well, Jeff Thompson finally did it. After coming Oh, so close in the past, he finally won his first ever Feature, taking the 15 lap Sportsman Feature at
La Crosse Fairgrounds August 20th over a fast closing Nick Clements. Justin Berg, Brian Hesselberg and Devin Schmidt were next across the line… The Central Wisconsin Racing Association was the sanctioning group for the Dan Weinfurter Memorial race held August 21st at Marshfield Motor Speedway of Marshfield, WI. The race is held in honor of Dan, a racer himself, who lost his life in a highway accident awhile back. Dan had to be smiling on the day as Uncle Jeff Weinfurter took the win in Late Model Feature one and placed 2nd in the night cap Feature event. CWRA is now holding their events with the Towel City Racing tire a requirement for Late Model competitors. The Marshfield event also saw a draw take place for starting positions in the Feature instead of time trial qualifying. The draw provided just as much if not more drama for fans as kids in the stands drew pills for the 16 drivers starting the event. A complete invert of the finishing order of Feature one was how main event two started and with Jeff Weinfurter and Dalton Zehr finishing one, two in that event there was plenty of passing in the 2nd race as again the two placed one and two, this time with Zehr winning. With two laps of boring time trials these days having way too much bearing on Feature starts and finishes this is definitely something tracks should take a look at for lining up cars. Sure the fastest car may at some point get lucky and start up front but at least it’s more interesting determining how they got there!
Of course the Oktoberfest Racing weekend at Lax. Fairgrounds will be here before you know it as the dates this year are October 5-9. With ‘Fest comes the Annual Champions Reunion. This year’s event, Sunday October 9th with be the 8th held and each year the turnout of former champions gets larger and larger. There are always many surprises as to who will show up and this year promises to be the same. The event is held from 11am-2pm Sunday the 9th and is open to all Champions of any Division of racing in any series at any track that haven’t raced in the last three years. This scribe qualifies for entry to the event as the Bicycle Champion at Golden Sands Speedway in 1902 and with that in mind you may qualify too! All kidding aside it’s always fun to get with the heroes of past racing. A number of race cars will be on display as well during the event including the #5 Schneider Trucking Dick Trickle NASCAR Grand National Division show car. Dick raced for Schneider for three years, 1998, ‘99 and ’00 and the car will provide a great remembrance of those days of racing. The 1934 Ford 5 window coupe driven by Cecil Henderson at the old North La Crosse Speedway back when it was a dirt track will also be on display. The Camaro Mike Miller drove to the win with in 1981 at the Minnesota State Fair will also be on hand. Dan Navrestad has restored the car to original and in addition to displaying it will race it later that day! In discussing the car with Miller he stated, “I hope he wins that race, he has the car capable of doing it. When I drove it, it was the fastest car in the Country, then like a dummy I sold it.” If you are a fan and have a Sunday ticket for ‘Fest you will be allowed to attend the Reunion FREE! You also may want to go to FACEBOOK under Champions Reunion VIII for more updates on who will be at the show this year. Former racers can also indicate if they will be coming to the Reunion there as well.
In the Quote of the column department its Les Back son of legendary driver Jim Back. “My Dad knew he could make more money racing than working in the shop (The successful Jim’s Custom of Vesper, WI.) so that’s what he did 5-7 days a week.”
And looking back in time to May 12th, 1972 it was Mert Williams winning the 25 lap Late Model Feature event at the then La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. Williams was followed by Larry Detjens, Jim Back, Allan Ward, Don Grant and Roy Schmidtke. La Vern Grandal won the Hobbystock main.
On July 22nd, 1981 it was Dick Trickle winning the 20 lap Feature at La Crosse Interstate Speedway. Jim Sauter, Mike Miller, Jim Johnson and Marv Marzofka followed.
On August 17th, 1991 it was Kevin Nuttleman winning the NASCAR Winston Racing Series Late Model Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway after first to the checkered, Mark Manke was DQ’d for a rules infraction. Following Nuttleman at the line were Shawn Pfaff, Brad Loney, Dudley Fleck, Jerry Bottcher and Bart Horstman.
Looking back at August 28th, 2004 it was Charlie Menard winning the 25 lap Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Following Menard in a race that started 25 cars were Andy Burgess, Steve Holzhausen, Paul Proksch, Sam Anderson and J. Herbst.
Looking back on August 2nd, 2014 it was Adam Degenhardt winning the 25 Lap NASCAR Late Model Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Following Degenhardt were Steve Carlson, Mike Carlson, Cole Howland, Matt Henderson and Brad Powell.
In the Dale’s pics from the past category it’s Jim Back racing his Wehrs Chevrolet Camaro in the Blue race in 1979 at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI. (Gary Hall photo) Racing at Capital Speedway, Oregon, WI. in 1977, #75 Larry Phillips. (Gary Hall photo) May 5th 1981 at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. it’s Mike Miller driving his Camaro in ARTGO action at the track. (Gary Hall photo)
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
August 2016
Usually when you hear of a staged or manipulated race you think of NASCAR’s upper divisions of racing. And when you here of this you’re pretty perturbed as no one wants to be witness to an event that is fixed, right? Well that was not the case in the Sportsmen Division race here at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., 7/1/16.
Actually, you won’t here anyone admit to this happening but with just 6 cars racing Sportsmen which was being run with the Tundra Division Super Late Models on the night it just had to be the case. With two cars (Rachel Kallas and John Zuch) substantially slower than the four behind them on the front row for the 15 lap race, one way or another it was decided to race side by side until the end and break out at that time and determine a winner. Timing is key here as too early a breakout out and the field will pass you before the checkered is waved. Well, the two continued side by side with the race winding down to its conclusion and it appeared they might just pull it off! The move was made by Zuch with a lap and a half to go. That unfortunately was too soon, as Bill Prietzel in the blink of an eye went from last to first in just a straightaway to win the race. The funny thing is that even though most everyone knew what was going on it turned out to be a great race! Having been contested legitimately it would have been a horrible show. Maybe there is something to entertaining your crowd even if it isn’t quite on the up and up. After all All-Star wrestling from way back as well as the current version of it is a huge hit. And if you think everything there is on the up and up, well, just tune into a NASCAR Cup event sometime.
Having seen racing like this is not exactly new either as I can remember drivers on occasion trying to hold up all the fast cars in Feature events at the State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI. A narrow track, you just couldn’t pass unless one of the two grooves opened up. Of course the fast guys caught on pretty quick to this ploy as they’d flip a coin before the race to see who would spin out to bring out a caution and restart the race in single file. That pretty much ended the front row parade but I guess when you think about it why not give something like that a try in hopes of getting a win? It was so difficult to beat the Trickles, Reffners, Detjens, etc., anyway, it was about the only way you at least had a shot.
Of course I remember seeing this same thing tried at the Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI. This track being very much wider, Marv Marzofka one night racing in the back decided he would have none of that nonsense. Marvelous Marv took his Camaro where no one previously had dared to go, onto the highest point of the track, 3rd groove. Marv passed half the field within a lap and had the leaders behind him within three more and went on to the win that had everyone talking. According to Marv it actually was easier than it looked to pull off the impressive win. “I wasn’t really going all that fast out there but the front two were going so slow that as long as I didn’t drop a wheel into the dirt I was fine.” And, the rest is history as next Mike Miller, then Tom Reffner and finally Dick Trickle all used the maneuver to win Feature races at the track.
Speaking of the TUNDRA Series it was Dalton Zehr picking up the 50 lap Feature win at Lax 7/1/16 in a hotly contested race between Nick Panitzke and Casey Johnson. That’s how the race finished with Nick Barstad and Jordan Thiel rounding out the top five. Interesting to note that Zehr and Johnson while running up front both used the outside lane on double file restarts. That’s practically unheard of during Saturday night racing here unless you’re Steve Carlson. Zehr obviously made it work just a tad better as he took the big win.
Here and there…Bill Prietzel took both of the Sportsmen Feature wins 7/1/16 at Lax doing it in similar fashion as the aforementioned…Good to see the Vintage cars racing as part of the Tundra Series program at Lax 7/1/16. Rex Rossier got the Feature win even though I tried to get him to slow down a bit and give the other drivers a chance in the race. When Rossier finishes he wins and he did it again convincingly here tonight…You just never get sick of the Green Mamba jet car melting down a vehicle. This time around it was a motor home with a boat inside that met its fiery demise. It happened as part of Smash-O-Rama at La Crosse Fairgrounds 7/2/16. All kinds of goofy novelty events as well as other destruction took place on the night and it was very entertaining for the huge crowd on hand. It didn’t hurt either that a great fireworks display, biggest ever at the track, capped things off…It was back to racing for the purist on July 9th at Lax Fairgrounds and to no ones surprise it was Ty Majeski taking some time off from his Roush Racing Driver Development deal to win the 25 lap Feature for NASCAR Late Models. Steve Carlson, Brad Powell, and Mike Carlson followed…The 126th La Crosse Interstate Fair of which I’ve been a part of all of them featured two 20 lap Features for the NASCAR Late Models. As usual a number of racers tried to win races on the first or second lap which only resulted in a bunch of torn up race cars. When the dust had finally cleared it was Steve Carlson taking the win in 20 #1 and Ty Majeski
coming back to take the 20 lap night cap…After a rain-out it was back to action with two 20 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature races at Lax Frgnds July 30th. In what has become a regular occurrence at the track Ty Majeski was the big winner taking the checkered flag 1st in both main events. Majeski claimed his car wasn’t quite right on the night which poses the question; How far ahead would he have been in the races if it had been? Brent Kirchner made his return to the Lax Speedway and looked good in placing 5th in both 20 lap Feature events…
And looking back in time to Wednesday afternoon, July 4th 1962 at Stratford, WI., Speedway it was Augie Winkleman winning the Feature race over Everett Fox, Marlin Walbeck and Jerry Wagner. Semi-Feature honors went to John McNamara over Marv Marzofka and Jr. Marzofka. Heat race winners were Jr. Marzofka, Marv Marzofka, and Walbeck. The non-qualifiers race win went to Al Nowak with Marv Marzofka winning the Chicken Race. (Chicken Race?) Fast time honors went to Marlin Walbeck at 15.7 seconds which was a new track record. Racing again at the track in the evening of July 4th, 1962 (Wow two races in one day!) it was Dave Unertl winning the Feature followed by Ray Hoffman, Everett Fox and Norm Wolf. The Semi-Feature went to Marv Marzofka with heat race winners Larry Hanson, Marv Marzofka and Augie Winkleman. Marlin Walbeck was fast qualifier. (This information from the Jim Cleveland race results archive.) Looking back at August 9th, 1978 it was J.J. Smith winning the Feature race at Marathon Park of Wausau, WI. Following Smith were Leon Plank, Roger Paul, Bob Menor and Mike Blaser. Heat race winners were Blaser and Smith with Plank winning the Trophy Dash. Fast time was set by Smith at 26.84 seconds. Back on August 16th, 1981 at Marathon Park it was Tom Nesbitt winning the 40 lap Feature. Nesbitt was followed by Ron Schreiner, Gary Dorn, M.J. McBride and Scott Webb. Heat race wins went to Schreiner, Tom Greenlee, Nesbitt, and Webb. The Semi-Main winner was Brian Leslie. (Results courtesy of Gary Hall. Looking back to June 18th, 1981 it was Marv Marzofka winning the Feature race at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI. Following Marzofka were Steve Moll, Dick Trickle, Tom Reffner and Mike Miller. Looking back on July 13th, 1975 at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI., it was Tom Reffner winning the 20 lap Feature over Jim Sauter, Mark Lamoreaux, Mike Miller and Jim Back. The Semi-Feature went to Jim Bohmsach over Tim Carlson and John Brevik. Heat race winners were Earl Sharping, Denny Paasch and Sauter. The Dash was won by Sauter with Fast time going to Tom Reffner at 20.918 seconds.
In the Dale’s pics from the past category we have Ron Hornaday racing this car at Saugus California Speedway in 1982. Not sure what make of car it is but it’s pretty wild looking. It took awhile, but Hornaday went on to bigger things. In the not defunct but changed Speedway department it’s the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway in the spring of 1995 after having been re-paved in the fall of 1994. J.J. Smith who won on both dirt and asphalt surfaced tracks raced this #30 on pavement in 1982. Marv Marzofka racing his Camaro at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI., in 1978. Marzofka would place 4th in the Feature on this day. (Gary Hall photo)
Photos: Jerimy Wagner at speed in his NASCAR Late Model in 2016 at Lax. Speedway.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
July 2016
Is there a changing of the guard of sorts taking place at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway in the NASCAR Late Model Division this year? We bring this to our reader’s attention as Mike Carlson for the first time in his career passed his Dad Steve to win the 25 lap Feature race on 6/11/18.
Mike started his racing career in the 4 cylinder division at the track before jumping into the Late Model Division there. There has been steady improvement each year and in 2016 with a new car and a crate engine, Carlson has found the right combination passing Dad on lap 22 of the feature race and going on to the significant win. Significant in that when you beat your Dad on the race track and not just finish ahead of, but pass him, it is truly a historic feat for a young driver. It’s especially noteworthy when you have a racing father that’s had the career in the sport that Steve has.
I can remember Bryan Reffner winning a Feature race over his famous father Tom and saying how from that point on he knew he had what it took to be a successful racer in this sport. It turned out just that way as Bryan went on to a very successful career of his own in racing.
So will we see more of this from Mike Carlson this year and beyond? More than likely, but don’t count the veteran Steve Carlson out just yet as he turned the tables on Mike the following week winning the 25 lap main at the track with Mike right behind.
What we really need now days are more family rivalries like this in racing. More Dads, sons and daughters involved in short track racing. Car counts continue to drop off everywhere (And we’re speaking more of the pavement than dirt set here.) and no one seems to be able to offer a solution to the problem. Back when you had a sanctioning group mandating rules to keep everyone on the same page all benefited as tracks on the circuit saw the same drivers competing every week (Great for marketing and promotional purposes.) and those drivers knew they could compete with a uniform set of rules. Now days tracks are independently operated and all want to hold events on the same night. There is not a whole lot of cooperation between them anymore and it has really hurt the sport at the short track level as fewer and fewer people choose to get involved in racing.
Sadly, some of it is the technological evolution that has taken place with fabricated race cars that can easily be purchased by anyone if the money is there. Gone are the days when home built ingenuity could compete and Dad and kids would work together and all eventually race. Worse yet is the young kid catching a glimpse of the current product, showing some interest and finding out it is going to cost him $50,000 and up to get involved. We’re speaking of a top division of racing here obviously, but this is the scenario at all too many tracks. In addition with all the electronic devices available for amusement these days Dads and their kids would rather play video games in the palm of their hand then put a steering wheel there. It’s immediate gratification for a lot less money!
In spite of all that, as long as I’ve followed this sport it always seems to reach a point where you have to take a couple steps back to move forward. With 12 or better engine combinations available out there costing anywhere from $8,000-$30,000, and the hottest set up in shock absorber technology at your fingertips for $6,000 or so, along with race car bodies that are too aerodynamically sound and unnecessarily expensive, I think that saturation point has been reached. If pay-offs at these tracks justified these types of expenses and maybe on a Touring Series they do, it might be a different story. Unfortunately purse pay-offs have remained the same or actually gone down for over 20 years! For a weekly show and to race for fun these expenses are just too much to overcome for the average racer. There are more entry level divisions of racing out there and they are an important part of a race program, but to sell an exciting show you need to promote the stars of it, the heroes, and they should be in your top billed class of racing. Taking a couple steps back here, bringing back more rules uniformity at the tracks that run similar divisions, and getting more people involved (Remember, more cars still do bring more race fans.) again in the sport would be a good place to begin.
Here and there…Nice to see Terry Schoppenhorst win the CWRA Lyle Nabbefeldt 55 lap Memorial race feature at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., here June 18th. If you are going to pick a time to win your first ever Feature of any kind as Schoppenhorst did here, a big race is when to do it! Lax Fairgrounds held a boat race here 6/11/16 as part of the race program and to say it was wild is definitely a big time understatement. Trailers carrying boats after promoter Chuck Deery had watered down the front stretch to simulate being on a lake made for great entertainment. There was so much debris lying around after the event it probably took a week to clean it up. Jared Novak was the happy winner of the race…After a two week hiatus Brad Powell came back to La Crosse Fairgrounds with a vengeance taking the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature 6/25/16. Steve and Mike Carlson followed…Good to see nice guy Mark Challet take the Feature win in the Thunderstox division on the night. Challet led the entire distance in that division’s main event…
In the defunct race track category it’s the Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, Wisconsin. The track was built and promoted by Sam Bartus opening in 1967. It held regular racing through 1983 before being shuttered for 5 years. Terry Preuser and yours truly provided a big push getting the track opened in late 1988. Unlike others there is a good ending here as the track is still operating today.
In the Quote of the column department, “I decided to go racing to stay out of the bar! I figured that would be cheaper so I bought Kevin Nuttleman’s car and went racing.” If you can figure out who said this, yeolde scribe will buy you a beer!
Photos: Mike Carlson #50 driving his NASCAR Late Model. “Bad” Brad Warthan in his mean looking black #22 has been quick this year winning the Sportsmen Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds 6/4/16. Dale’s Pics from the past. Ernie Derr #1 raced with IMCA making frequent visits to Wisconsin including La Crosse Fairgrounds. He raced this potent Dodge Charger at Marathon Park of Wausau, WI. (From the Gary Hall collection) Minnesota traveler Don James raced this Chevelle throughout the State of Wisconsin in 1974. Another Minnesota traveler, Bob Jusola #4 raced this Nova frequently on the Wisconsin circuit in 1973.
In the defunct race track file this is a photo of the Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI. as it appeared in early 1988. The Speedway had been closed for 5 years before re-opening in late 1988. Photo of Dick Trickle making his return to Wisconsin to race at Golden Sands in 1989 in his Miller beer Camaro.
And going back in time to June 20th, 1969 it was Lyle Nabbefeldt winning the feature race behind the wheel of the Dick Trickle 1967 Ford Fairlane. Following Nabbefeldt at the stripe were George Thornton, Jim Back, Dave Field and Homer Spink. Other results found Tom Jensen winning the Semi-Feature while Roy Gau took the consolation race. Heat race winners were Keith Kemnetz, Gene Theide, Ron Soma and Nabbefeldt. Field set fast time on the night at 13.28 seconds. On August 6th, 1971 it was Don James winning the 20 lap Feature at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. James was followed by Lyle Nabbefeldt and Jim Back. The 15 lap Semi-feature winner was Buck Linhart followed by Dale Pennel and Dale Walworth. Heat race victors were Linhart, Walworth and Roy Schmidtke. The fast dash went to James. (Thanks to Jim Cleveland and all his research for these race results.)Going back to August 17th, 1985 in a visit to Rockford, IL., Speedway (A track that was in the midst of taking a couple steps back economically in their track rules.) it was Bobby Hacker taking the 30 lap Feature win over Ricky Bilderback, Al Papini, Dave Watson and Wayne Lensing. Semi-Feature victor on the night was Wayne Swartout. The Fast Dash went to Jimmie Pierson with heat race wins going to Steve Moll, Gary Loos and Denny Miller. Fast qualifier around the high banked ¼ mile paved oval was Lensing with a new track record for the “Rockford Rules Late Models” at 14:259 seconds.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
June 2016
If not for families continuing their racing tradition through generations you really wonder where racing would be these days. Many of the names that were a part of the sport many years ago are still present today and this certainly holds true at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI.
The name Lockington is definitely one that has appeared through the years in race results in the region. Going back to the North La Crosse Speedbowl days Lockington’s have seen four generations compete going back over 50 years! Don Lockington raced in the area way back when and Ron then raced after him. Other family members getting involved include Tory and Todd whose son Ryan also raced. Nephew to Ron, Shawn Lockington is a racer and has a son Kyle that races. And of course if you head out to the track on a Saturday you’ll be watching Kayla tooling around in her Thunderstock machine.
Of course you don’t have to go too far back to recognize the Carlson name in racing. As a matter of fact you have the father son duo of Steve and Mike competing every week in the NASCAR Late Model Division. I can remember when brothers Steve and Tom were going at it in Sportsman Division racing. Tim also found himself in the mix racing for awhile in Wisconsin. Jim Carlson raced for many years in the Late Model Division only recently giving up driving.
Carter Christenson has been racing in the NASCAR Late Model Division for the last several years as he follows in the footsteps of his Father Ken Christenson Jr. Jim and John have also raced as they followed their father Ken Sr. into racing.
Mike Niles who still handles wrecker responsibilities at the Speedway had the opportunity to get into the sport when in his 20s and competed for many years before helping sons Andy and Bill in the sport. I can remember some epic battles between the two competitive brothers and they didn’t always end with the best possible result! With both brothers on the sidelines Mike took on the ownership role fielding cars for Greg Scheck. With Scheck retiring after winning a Championship in the Sportsman Division it was on to the next generation as Andy’s son Sam informed the family he wanted to race. With the Scheck Championship car still in Nile’s possession the only barrier was getting Grandma Niles approval which Sam grudgingly received. Result; The Niles racing tradition continues on.
The Oliver name in racing continues on as Dad of sons Greg and Todd purchased an ex Dick Trickle Ford and raced for a number of years. Greg raced for awhile and continues in the sport as a racing series promoter. Of course you’ll also recognize that name as the long time flagman at the speedway. Todd meanwhile still races his NASCAR Late Model and also introduced his daughter to the sport as she raced awhile back in the Sportsman Division.
The name Korish goes all the way back to the 1950s in area racing and in recent years we’ve seen Todd race and become track Champion in the NASCAR Late Model Division at the speedway. Relation John and Lucas have also raced.
Shawn Pfaff has had a stellar career racing at the speedway and now has daughter Jacinda and son Radlee behind the wheel of race cars.
The Eckelberg family has been a familiar name at the track for the last number of years as dad Kurt, son Jonathan and daughter Mandi have all raced. Kurt has retired from driving but can still be seen every Saturday night helping the kids with their racing careers with Mom who has been behind the wheel herself not too far away.
Of course back in the 1970s when I was really taking an interest in the sport I can recall the names Mahlum and Thicke competing. Pete Mahlum was one I remember racing some powerful Chevrolet products at a number of tracks. With so many folks with these names in the area I can’t tell you exactly how they are related but I remember watching Larry Mahlum, Paul Mahlum, Paul Thicke and Leon Thicke race back in the day. Those names are still appearing today as Paul Mahlum, Paul Mahlum III, Scott Mahlum, Patrick, Thicke and Garrett Thicke can all be found in the track results on any given race night.
Rick Johnson was another familiar name in racing mostly competing in the Sportsman Division through the years. His son R.J. has carried on the tradition as he has raced for a number of years.
I can remember Al Dobbs racing the number #3 in the Sportsman Division years ago and we continue to see that name at the track as both Taylor and Jonathan are racers.
Some pretty well known brothers acts have been involved in the sport as Larry Bolster, Jr., and Jason Bolster (Who is still competing) have both been Champions at the speedway. The ageless Don Turner, (Frank Thornton) and his brother George raced against each other back in the ‘70s.
I am sure I have missed some of the many generations of racers competing through the years in our region and feel free to let me know who you are for future column material. But the bottom line here is where would the sport be if not for each generation of racer following the other to keep the tradition alive. The sport may well have died a long time ago as these folks make up 2/3 of the field racing on any given night!
Here and there...It was a Carlson kind of a night at Lax Fairgrounds 5/21/16 as Mike won the first 20 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature with Dad Steve following suit winning the 20 lap Feature night cap. Steve Carlson also took the 25 lap Feature on 5/14/16 at the track and if not for Ty Majeski winning the track opener 4/24/16 it would be all Carlson so far in 2016….The Carlson name in victory lane at the track may become even more prevalent this season without Ty Majeski being able to compete on a regular basis. Majeski has signed a Driver Development deal with Roush Racing which is supposed to lead to bigger things in first ARCA then NASCAR racing. I just hope it doesn’t go the way of other talented Wisconsin racers Nate Haseleu and Todd Kleuver as neither was given a fair shot down South. But in Majeski’s case, with a favorable agreement in place why not give it a shot?..Cam Dezelske picked up his first ever NASCAR Late Model win in a heat race at Lax Fairgrounds here 5/14/16. He kept the momentum going by winning again at the track on 5/21/16…The Central Wisconsin Racing Association has a couple events once again scheduled at the Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI. The Lyle Nabbefeldt Memorial race will be held on June 18th with the Walbeck Classic following on July 9th. Two to four additional events could also be scheduled before the year is out…
Photos: Continuing the family tradition of racing #30 Kayla Lockington and #28 Sam Niles…
Pics from the past, Marv Marzofka #99 (Yes, Marzofka drove this car along with Dick Trickle) and Dave Marcis #2 racing at Marathon Park, Wausau, WI., in 1963. (Gary Hall photo) Dewey Moore driving the #3 which would become famous as the Chicken Coupe goes for a ride at marathon park, Wausau, WI., in 1964. (From the Gary Hall collection)
In the defunct race track file it’s the Columbus 151 Speedway of Columbus, WI., as it looked in 2005 during better days when racing action was still taking place. Back on June 18th, 1972 it was John Ziegler winning the 30 lap Feature there over Bill Retallick, Rich Bickle, Steve Arndt and Fred Bender. Ziegler also set fast time around the 1/3 mile oval at 14:41 seconds. Heat race winners were Len Swalheim, Jerry Eckardt, and Roy Schacklelford. The consolation race winner was Dave Drost while Rich Zickert won the Semi-feature. The Hobby stock main event winner was Ray Kreyer.
And going back in time to September 3, 1951 it was Herb Kurth winning the Feature at Marathon Park of Wausau, WI. Following Kurth were Sam Wadzinski, Milt Schavie, John Ryan and Carmello Oliva. Interesting to note that soon to be racing star Augie Winkleman was not allowed to compete because he wasn’t considered a local driver, as in from Marathon County. Winkleman was from Merrill, WI., less than ½ hour away!. Thanks to Gary Hall for this information… Going back to September 22, 1985 which was the 86th race of the year attended by this scribe, it was Joe Shear winning the National Short Track Championship 200 at Rockford Speedway, Rockford, IL…
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
May 2016
When there’s a Sauter in a race you know there will be excitement. If there’s two Sauter's and a Fredrickson in the same race you can’t possibly know what will happen next! This was the case at the Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., season opener 4/17/16 as the Icebreaker 100 featured all three of these drivers going for the big bucks on a perfect Sunday afternoon for racing.
Johnny Sauter and nephew Travis were both in today’s main event and with a past history of contact with not so good consequences it was anyone’s guess what might come up. What came up was a slight love tap early in the Feature between the two which sent both to the rear of the field. Shortly thereafter the day was done for Travis but making his way back through the field was Johnny Sauter taking the lead from race long leader Andrew Morrissey on lap 47. At that point it appeared the race was his as generally when this happens its long gone Johnny. But not this time as Morrissey hung in and actually repassed Sauter for the lead on lap 69. At this point Morrissey was in control and it was Dan Fredrickson moving up through the field to challenge Sauter for second. With double file restarts in effect after caution periods Fredrickson found himself next to Sauter. Sauter was able to pull away a bit but Fredrickson after slight contact was poised to take the spot. On the next lap he did but Sauter not liking the previous laps slight contact flew into corner one taking Fredrickson out of the position. Sauter maintained the spot although Fredrickson tried his hardest while spinning sideways to take Sauter with him. Both would ultimately start in the back on the restart and with too few laps left had no opportunity to challenge for the win. They did place 5th and 9th respectively.
Morrissey meanwhile maintained his spot winning the race and the over $3,000 that went with it. Tim Schendel quietly made his way to the front and wound up second at the finish. Rounding out the top 5 was Ty Majeski, youngster Derek Kraus and Sauter.
As we said before with Sauter(s) and Fredrickson in a race there will be fireworks. There certainly was no shortage of that today and it will definitely give the crowd something to talk about heading into the next episode between the drivers whenever that may occur.
And we go from the Icebreaker to the Frostbuster with La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI scheduling that event Sunday 4/24/16 to open their 2016 season. With weather iffy a full show was nonetheless completed and depending on your perspective there could already be some controversy brewing. Maybe controversy isn’t the right word but the allowance of Crate engines in the Late Model Division this year already in the opening race appears to have created an advantage for Ty Majeski who is one of two drivers to have one. Shattering the track record in qualifying, winning the dash event along with the Feature will get that kind of discussion going as that’s exactly what Majeski accomplished on the day. He did it in convincing fashion as well taking the lead in the main on lap 8 after starting deep in the Feature field. So with Majeski long gone the rest of the 17 car field was racing for second and when all was said and done it was the short track king himself in that spot, Steve Carlson. Carlson was however no match for Majeski but was able to out distance Mike Carlson (Who had the other Crate) Adam Degenhardt, Brad Powell, Shawn Pfaff, Cole Howland, Jerimy Wagner, Matt Henderson and Don Turner the top 10. Is it the engine that’s a big advantage or is it the engine/chassis combination in Majeski’s car that already appears unbeatable? Is a wait and see approach the way to go about it or do changes need to be made as in now? With the next race scheduled for May 14th there is time to think about it so stay tuned as we will have more next time!
Here and there…Also on the Dells racing card was the Great Northern Sportsman Series. It’s always exciting, competitive racing with this group and today was no exception as track regular Dave Trute took the win holding off Dustin Mann at the stripe…Midwest Dash Series cars were on the card as well and it was George Sparkman taking that Feature win…Great to see the large crowd on hand for the Dells opener. Only draw back on the day was not possibly anticipating such nice weather and a crowd this size as the speedway ran out of numerous food and beverage items… Rick Schermerhorn was on hand for the Lax opener and he promptly picked up the Feature win in the Sportsman Division. Schermerhorn raced to the win over Brian Hesselberg who beat Randy Humfeld who is back this year by a foot at the line…With drivers getting to race twice besides qualifying Majeski’s feat can be classified as a modern era “Clean Sweep”…Just received word that Dave Evans has passed away. We remember seeing “Dynamite” Dave race at a lot of venues all over the Midwest and he fared pretty well through the years. He definitely helped a number of top notch racers with their careers in an ownership capacity as well. Again, another familiar face in our era of racing is gone…The ARCA Midwest Tour is set to get it’s 2016 season going May 1, with the Joe Shear Classic at Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI. Always a great event with the hugely popular Joe Shear name attached to it makes it even greater…Looking at a couple close to home tracks Mississippi Thunder Speedway of Fountain City, WI is set to open for the season on Friday, April 29th…Meanwhile Tomah/Sparta Raceway, Tomah, WI. is set to begin its racing season may 8th. Sundays will be the norm through May before action commences on Friday nights…
Photos: Tim Schendel off to a good start in 2016 and continuing to build off of a successful 2015 season where he was the Central Wisconsin Racing season Champion. Don Thunder Turner back racing at La Crosse Fairgrounds on a regular basis in 2016.
In the defunct race track file it’s the Fox Ridge Speedway of Arcadia, WI in a photo taken in 2010. Dave Hesch built, owned and promoted the Speedway until it closed after the track in Fountain City, WI., opened creating a feud between the two for Friday night racing. And looking back on June 4, 2004 it was Brady Smith winning the 50 lap Feature at Fox Ridge Speedway, Arcadia, WI. Looking further back on Thursday night June 18th 1964 at the Dells Motor Speedway, it was Everett Fox taking the Feature win over Marv Marzofka, Marlin Walbeck and Lyle Nabbefeldt. The semi-Feature win went to John McNamara.
And on a final note I want to dedicate this racing season and these columns to my father in law who unexpectedly passed away April 17th. Gary Luing was a big racing fan and at 75 years of age had a lot of life left in him. As sad as it is, at least now he’ll have a chance to meet his favorite driver at that Super Speedway in the sky Dale Earnhardt, Sr. Rest in peace Gary, we won’t forget and we are really going to miss you!
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
April 2016
We’ll do our final segment of discussion on defunct race tracks with this being the final online edition of MRC. Heading into the “Print’ season however, we’ll sneak some more features of this sort in columns as we’ve received a lot of favorable feedback on the topic. Plus it’s been fun going back in time in racing!
The Central State Speedway of Colby, Wisconsin held racing on Friday nights for many years before Highway 29 made a path right through it. No semblance of a track there now although if you were there for racing you can pick out where the pit area was. With the closing of this track a new one nearby in Unity, WI., was built at the Monster Hall Campground. That track is still active today. In one of our visits to the Colby track back in 1985 we witnessed Dave Adams win the 25 lap Late Model Feature event on the 1/3 mile clay oval. Adams was followed by Mike Lang, M.J. Mc Bride, Mike Hansen, Ray Tenetz and Bill Lindner. It was interesting and almost uncanny that every week we attended a race there that year and we went to most of them, they’d have 21 Late Models on hand. The field would feature numerous different drivers each race but always a total of 21 cars! How strange. Really enjoyed the racing there and promoter at the time Darrell Paasch and his wife always treated us really well.
Of course we definitely know who won the last event ever held at the Olmsted County Fairgrounds Speedway of Rochester, MN as our USMS group held the event there! Tim Donlinger was victorious in the Modified main event taking the checkered flag ahead of Mike Sorenson, Ron Jones, Mark Noble, Kelly Shryock and the racing mailman Tommy Myer. The event was held on August 2nd of 1996. USMS worked with Clayton Dornack on the promotion and he was going to hold a Sprint car race later in the year at the track but it never happened. Not exactly how you want to be noted in history as the last people to have an event at a track but a lasting memory exists nonetheless. Looking at the facility in 2016 you can certainly tell where the track was layed out and a typical covered grandstand for a Fairgrounds is still in place, but no plans are in the works to ever have auto racing at the facility again.
Racers Raceway of Bruce, WI., was again one of those speedways we never witnessed action at but back in the late ‘90s we decided to stop by and check out the site of the track. Located right off highway 8 just outside of town, sure enough you could definitely make out the contour of a race track. It obviously hadn’t operated in many years as 10 foot tall trees were growing out of the straight a ways! Really interesting with this track was the gigantic front stretch concrete wall. It was still standing in it’s over 8 foot tall glory when we were there probably because it would have cost a fortune to tear it down! We can remember Kevin Cywinski racing and winning here and as many of you know Kevin went on to a very successful career of Midwestern short track racing including winning on the very prestigious ASA Tour.
Winona County Speedway of St. Charles, MN is a track we’ve seen racing at. Checking the Fairgrounds track out in 2016 it doesn’t appear that it would take that much to get it up and running. Unfortunately with so many of today’s cookie cutter sized 3/8 mile banked oval tracks the preference, most drivers probably wouldn’t want to race here, as this track is barely a ¼ mile around and nearly completely flat. Just how I like them for close, competitive racing! Looking back on June 27th, 1992 we see where Darrell Zweifel won the Modified Feature event at the track. Zweifel was followed in the main by Dan Mattick, Paul Hamernik, Lanny Haukom and Bill Nessler.
The Hales Corners Speedway of Hales Corners, WI., has an over 50 year history of racing. Some of the best times for the track were when it held Modified racing as its featured attraction. Car counts were large and crowds were huge through the years. The track held many special events as well including World of Outlaw Sprint car racing. Late Models eventually became the top billed division along with the ever popular Sportsman class. Looking back at June 28th, 1986 it was Ed Kulka winning the 25 lap Late Model Feature over Mike Melius, Bill Prietzel, George Scheffler and Gordie Seegert Jr. Sportsman main winner was Dick Protasiewicz. But of course urban sprawl did this track in as well with of all things a Menards (In to racing like he is you’d think John Menard could have kept the place open) store being constructed where the track used to be. All that remained for many years reminding that the track was here was a huge tree which was in the pit area while the track was open. Pit meetings were held under the tree and of course if it could talk what tales would be told. As of 2004 the tree was still standing but that’s a long time ago and we have our doubts it remains.
We get the quote of the column from long time racer Mert Williams who I had the pleasure to meet here recently at a Racer Reunion. “He didn’t really gain on the straight and he didn’t really gain in the corners, but all of a sudden he was just gone!” That was Williams description of following Dick Trickle at the then La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. Mert definitely did his share of winning Features on dirt and was one of the few racers that also won on asphalt, including at the West Salem oval in the ‘70s.
Here and there…Ty Majeski did it again, this time taking top honors here recently in a 250 lap event at the South Alabama Speedway of Opp, AL. It will be hard for Majeski to top last season’s performance but he’s off to a great start trying! Seeing where the Illiana Motor Speedway, Schererville, IN at last word was not going to open in 2016. With this news we wonder about the ARCA Midwest Tour event that was scheduled to be held there…
And going back in time, looking back to the year 1992, On May 9th, it was Wayne Para taking the 25 lap Feature win at the Illiana Motor Speedway, Schererville, IN. Following Para were Scott Fisher, Mike White, Mike Martin and Robert Hixon…Looking back to the year 1982 on July 16th it was Tom Nesbitt winning the Late Model Feature at Red Cedar Speedway of Menomonie, WI. Nesbitt was followed by Ron Schreiner, Red Steffen, Dave Hesch and Ron Goss.
Photo from the past: Central State Speedway, Colby, WI., before Highway 29 plowed right through it. Grandstands and front stretch of Olmsted County Fairgrounds Speedway, Rochester, MN., as seen in 2016. Winona County Speedway, St. Charles, MN. 2016 photo. The Big Wall of Racers Raceway, Bruce, WI. Late 1990’s photo. The famous tree in the pit area of Hales Corners Speedway as it stood in 2004.
A couple additional photos that didn’t appear in last MRC due to space restrictions due to space restrictions, Marlin Walbeck #30 a prolific winner on both dirt and pavement. Here he is driving his 1965 Chevelle at Marathon Park in 1966. (Gary Hall photo) The Tunis Speedway, Waterloo, Iowa as it looked in 1998.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
March 2016
With rave reviews (Dan Plan liked it) of our last column focusing on defunct race tracks we will now commence with round two as we remember or at least imagine what once was at some of these long lost venues.
A track close to my home town, Crowns Speedway of Wis. Rapids, WI., was perhaps the first speedway in that part of the State to hold stock car racing on a regular basis. Although way before my time in terms of seeing any action there, Crowns held racing events through the Mid-Fifties and was the last track to do so before Sam Bartus constructed the Griffith Park Speedway in 1960. It was always pointed out to me where the Crowns track was and in an excursion to that area there were some remnants of a speedway having held events. Jere O’Day was one of the racing hotdogs of the day and a prolific winner at this track. Don Ruder was another frequent winner there along with Hugh Leonard, Earl Boyles, Len Willan and Milt Schavie. Schavie raced promoter Clayton Crowns 4 Aces car to many of his wins.
One of those tracks we read a lot about
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
December 2014
I really enjoy bringing back the memories of past racing heroes and champions through these writings especially when I have a chance to sit down with them and catch an episode or two of racing back in the Glory Days. I don’t like having to rehash these great memories posthumously and sadly that is the way this column will be written as we lost two more stars of Wisconsin racing as both Jim Sauter and Tom Steuding passed away here in the last month.
Jim Sauter is of course the original Sauter, the patriarch of the racing family of which there are many. After moving from the Twin Cities Jim Sauter, Sr., carved out one heck of a racing career beginning with the short tracks of Wisconsin and eventually ending up at the top level of the Sport, NASCAR Cup racing. There were many stops, wins and championships acquired along the way and with that Sauter can certainly be defined as a superstar of the 1960s-1980s era of racing.
I fortunately at that time was very in tune with the short track scene and was able to see Sauter race and win too many times to recall. I first recall his visiting the Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI., my home track and racing in 1969 a 1957 Chevrolet for Dave Marcis. Marcis who of course carved out an excellent racing career himself was in the process of relocating down south to take on NASCAR’s best. With little or no time to race in his home State of Wisconsin, Marcis had a hot car he needed to do something with other than sit in a barn. Bring in Jim Sauter who admirably raced the car in Wisconsin, beginning here what would be a long career. I remember Sauter in 1970 bringing a copper colored 1967 Chevelle to the “Sands oval and winning a couple Features with it during the year. A gold colored 1969 Chevelle followed which as I recall was a car that looked cool to this scribe and stood out among the crowd. He won with that car as well and continued to race at area and neighboring State tracks. I remember a Chevelle with help coming from Larry Wehrs later being painted blue in similar fashion to the Dave Marcis race car paint schemes. The biggest win for that car came at the Minnesota State Fair as Sauter won a 500 lap race there in 1971. The pony car era beginning in 1972 saw Chevrolet Camaros and Novas for Sauter to race, with more wins following.
With more traveling to big dollar events now taking place, Sauter ranked among the best, winning his share against the likes of Trickle, Marzofka, Back, Reffner, Shear, Watson, Miller, and all the others racing at that time. Sauter won perhaps the most prestigious event at the time, The National Short Track Championships at Rockford Speedway of Rockford, IL., in 1980. But it was with the John McKarns ARTGO Series that Sauter really shined, winning the 1981 and 1982 Championships in that Series. He also won the track Championship at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI., in 1981. The ASA Tour was also now going strong and Sauter won numerous of those events as well.
Of course the good drivers always get to a point where they feel they’ve conquered all they can at the local and regional level so it’s time to take the next step. Sauter took a shot at ARCA racing competition and again proved to be a winner. NASCAR came next with some competitive runs in the then Grand National Division. Stardom at the Cup level was within reach for Sauter as he proved competitive right from the start. Most folks probably don’t recall, but Jim nearly won the 1982 Daytona 500 racing a car for JD Stacy. Stacy arrived on the NASCAR scene with a fat wallet and fielded numerous cars for a number of different drivers. Sauter was one and really making the most of it as he raced in the top 5 of the 500 with a legitimate shot at winning before brake problems set in and he wound up a disappointing 12th. Of course with that run Sauter felt he was on his way with the team, but Mr. Stacy left the sport almost as quick as he got into it leaving Sauter and a number of other drivers and bills behind. Sauter actually had opportunity even before that being offered the Hoss Ellington car that was very competitive at the time. According to Sauter, “ I was just proud that they considered me for that ride. I just couldn’t commit to it at that time though I had other things come up, but I was really proud that I was considered that caliber of driver.” Sauter and Marcis eventually got latched up again, this time in NASCAR but without the real funding necessary to do it right never really were a major threat. Sauter did manage however to stay around the sport at that level being one of the test drivers for Goodyear when it was holding its International Race Of Champions (IROC) series. It gave Sauter and fellow short tracker Dick Trickle a chance to stay within reach of the top level of sport and turn some fast laps at some of the most reputable tracks in America. The cars proved extremely equal which is what the series was looking for and that certainly is a testament to their race car set-up ability and also knowledge and expertise in tire management. At a time when Cup racing wasn’t nearly as financially rewarding as it is today it was really special to see our own in Rebel Country proving to everyone they belonged!
Of course with time marching on and numerous sons getting involved in the sport Jim eventually backed way off his racing schedule spending more time helping with their efforts. He never totally disappeared though still calling Necedah, WI., home and it was always great fun having him at the Champions Reunions we held as part of Oktoberfest racing weekend the last 6 years. It was also a reunion of sorts for Sauter with that track as he won the first ever Feature event held there in 1970 as a paved ½ mile oval having previously been dirt. In another first for both Sauter and the track he won the season points Championship the following year as the speedway held its first full season of racing.
So with the last Reunion this past October, and Sauter having a good time mingling with former competitors and fans its just memories now that will live on for all of us who saw him race. I consider myself fortunate that I was able to see Sauter race and also get to know the driver who certainly will go down as one of the best to come from this area ever.
Tom Steuding’s racing prowess was mostly on the dirt tracks of Wisconsin as he was a threat wherever he raced. Although not following the dirt guys as much in the ‘70s and ‘80s I do remember Steuding spanking the field at the Fairgrounds track in Neilsville, WI. one year. Steuding’s success was certainly not limited to a track or two either as he won track championships at Wisconsin Speedways in Eau Claire, Marshfield, Menomonie and Neilsville. Having raced on dirt for nearly his entire career Steuding apparently upon Mr. Dick Trickle’s suggestion decided to go pavement racing. Steuding ran the majority of the Central Wisconsin circuit competing at West Salem, Plover, and Wausau tracks. If memory serves me right he did win a Feature at Wausau in his #7 white Camaro. What he may have lacked in a long list of wins on pavement was more than made up for when he and Trickle would get together, which was usually a party in the making. Fun doesn’t describe the two when they got together and fortunately for us followers we’d get to be a part of it now and then after a race somewhere. Steuding also lays claim to coming up with the White Knight moniker for Trickle during the Super America sponsorship days. According to Steuding and I quote him as told to this scribe, “Dick you need to uphold your clean image and become the White Knight instead of the Purple Knight.” Take that however you want but that’s kind of how it went when those two got together so who’s to say it isn’t true!
We were also pleased that Steuding was able to make it to our 2011 Champions Reunions as part of ‘Fest. He was a lot of fun to talk with and brought to light a lot of what went on back in the day that I had forgotten. Too much partying with those guys and too many lost brain cells I guess!
But, as with Jim Sauter we will have to rely strictly on memories now of two great race drivers. Again, I am so glad I got to see them race back in the day and also get to know them off the track. Nothing can replace those days and these two racers that will certainly go down as a couple of the best. To that end, I’m thankful.
Our fallen heroes racing back in the day…On Tuesday night, July 14th 1970 the La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI., opened as a ½ mile paved oval with Jim Sauter winning the Feature race. Following Sauter were Jim Back and Dick Trickle…On July 24th 1970 it was Jim Sauter in his 1969 Chevelle winning the 30 lap Feature at La Crosse Interstate outpacing Dick Trickle, Tom Reffner, Marv Marzofka and Rich Somers…On May 7th 1971 it was Jim Sauter winning the season opening 20 lap Feature in his 1979 Chevelle at La Crosse Interstate over Marv Marzofka and Rich Somers…On July 12th, 1970, Jim Sauter won the Feature race at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., in his 1967 Chevelle. Following Sauter were Jim Back, Marv Marzofka, Dave Field and Bill Wirtz…On July 9th, 1986 Tom Steuding drove to the Gopher 50 Feature win at the Steele County Fairgrounds, Owatonna, MN.
Pics from the past: The Jim Sauter blue 1969 Chevelle at La Crosse Interstate Speedway. Sauter’s Blue Nova raced in 1975. The Howe Chassis blue Camaro Sauter raced in 1976. The #7 Dave Evans owned Camaro Sauter captured the 1980 NSTC at Rockford Speedway with. Tom Steuding, Dick Trickle and others enjoying the 2011 Champions Reunion. Tom Steuding heading for a win in the prestigious Gopher 50 in 1986.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827, 608-518-2478, or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
November 2014
Well, bad weather finally bit the Oktoberfest Racing weekend here scheduled for October 2-5 at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., as the Thursday night program was a total washout. Through the years management has been able to get all the days of racing in but finally in 2014 the event had to be shortened.
It was more like a deluge on Thursday as water from an inch and a half of rain in a short time was running everywhere. There was no way racing was going to take place on this night and that meant a decision to be made on trying to get the night’s scheduled events in on another night… or not. Manager Chuck Deery decided or not, sighting other commitments by race teams and drivers for the weekend and a problem making it fair for everyone including those scheduled to race the following three days. It’s a tough decision to make especially with numerous divisions of racing championships to be determined with close points battles on the line, but someone has to do it and I’m just glad it wasn’t me having been down that road in my own racing endeavors from years past!
And with this result, Steve Carlson, Greg Scheck, Jason Bolster, Mark Bornitz, and Cole Scholze are the 2014 Speedway champions in their respective divisions. All but the NASCAR Late Model Division which Steve Carlson had all but wrapped up were close but the race season has been completed and we will now look forward to 2015!
Other highlights from this years ‘Fest include Dan Fredrickson winning the ever popular Dick Trickle 99 event on Friday. The three 33 lap Feature format to determine a Champion has always made for very exciting racing. Fredrickson eked out the win over Dalton Zehr who made a last ditch effort to catch Fredrickson in the last 33, falling just short at the end.
It was also on this night that Don “Thunder” Turner kept his streak alive of competing in every Oktoberfest weekend of racing, all 45 of them! On this night Turner finished 4th in the C Feature run for Super Late Models.
Drama for Saturday night’s ‘Fest racing was created by Ty Majeski who was in position to win the ARCA Midwest Tour Championship. After setting fast qualifying time, Majeski racing in the dash was involved in a multi-car wreck, heavily damaging his racing machine. With the car unrepairable, at least in terms of competing the next day work would have to be done to even get Majeski in the race! After much maneuvering with cars and drivers to meet the ARCA Tour rules requirements, Majeski made it out for Sunday’s 200 lap finale placing 9th which was enough to secure the Championship. Majeski a rookie on the Tour, was the first to accomplish both in the same season in ARCA Midwest Tour history. Of course Travis Sauter was again the victor in the 200 lap ARCA MT season and ‘Fest racing finale holding off Dan Fredrickson for the win, his 4th. With the completion of the racing weekend, plans are already underway for next years Oktoberfest Racing weekend October 8-11, 2015.
Here and there…John Gilbertson who is heavily involved in the Steve Carlson racing operation did a little driving of his own in the Vintage division on Sunday of ‘Fest. He did more than a little driving, he won the Feature event for those cars and drivers! With the huge win rumor has it that Gilbertson will take over the Steve Carlson ride from this year and compete full time in the NASCAR Late Model Division for 2015…Just kidding on that last part…And speaking of 2015 a number of drivers have indicated they are calling it a career racing at the Speedway, the latest being long time competitor Bill Niles. Thursday of ‘Fest was supposed to be Bill’s last racing but with rain washing out the program he indicated, “That’s it” It’ll be a shame not to see the #54 on the speedway anymore, especially on the way to a win with police car flashing blue and red lights in his race car, but Bill has said enough is enough. With all the things these racers miss due to their commitment to the sport it is certainly understandable but nonetheless sad to see this day come. Bill was always upbeat and involved in some capacity promoting the sport and hopefully he continues with that even if not competing on a regular basis…And another driver indicating this is the end of the line was Greg Scheck after he competed on Friday at the Speedway. I guess if you are going to call it a career you might as well do it as a Champion which Scheck is after winning this years La Crosse Fairgrounds Sportsman Division Championship…With this years Champions Reunion as part of Oktoberfest racing weekend drawing over 40 drivers from back in the day we look at some past racing results from those at the reunion this year. On June 18th, 1968 it was Tom Reffner winning the Feature at the North La Crosse Speedway, outpacing Marv Marzofka and Jim Back…On July 17th, 1969 it was Marv Marzofka winning the main event at the North La Crosse Speedway followed by Jim Sauter and Jim Back…On August 20th, 1971 it was Ron Waite taking the Feature event at the AF Speedway, of Adams Friendship, WI. At the finish Waite was followed by Bill Wirtz, Tom Jensen, Delmar Kemnetz and Floyd Fairfield…On June 16th, 1972 it was Jim Sauter winning the Feature event at
La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. Sauter finished ahead of Marv Marzofka, Jim Back, Tom Schaller and Lyle Nabbefeldt…On October 11th, 1992 it was Tom Carlson winning the Oktoberfest 100 main event at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, his 2nd win in a row of the event. Following Carlson were Rick Beebe, Joe Shear, Steve Holzhausen and Jim Weber…
Pics from the past: Ev Fox #19 who attended Champions Reunion this year, is shown here in one of the Big Moose Little Moose team cars. Marv Marzofka #91 with a beverage sponsor. Tom Carlson #51 sponsored by a competing beverage. John Ziegler #93 in one of his “Wild” Mustangs with the pants to match. Jim Sauter #5 racing his cool Camaro in 1972. Tom Reffner in His AMC Concord.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827, 608-518-2478, or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
Oct 2014
You can’t help but admire veteran drivers that you can see “Still have it”. Two that I recently saw get wins are Steve Carlson and Steve Holzhausen a couple veterans that have received many accolades in racing and have been at it for more years than they’d probably like to admit.
Steve Carlson is Oh! so close to another Championship at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway of West Salem, WI., and it really isn’t that difficult to see why. He stays out of trouble, finishes races and often is first across the line. If you keep your eyes on Carlson throughout a race you can see how far ahead he is looking. So many drivers look as far as the hood of their car as they are literally hanging on in trying to obtain maximum speed. Carlson has his move planned out at least a lap ahead. You’d think with so many variables and intangibles on the track potentially occurring within a lap of racing that would be impossible to do. Not for the good ones it isn’t. Sitting in the stands at Lax this year I pointed out to folks what Carlson was going to do before he did it. Upon looking further these folks were amazed at how accurate I was. I’m not bragging, and I’m not the smart one here, it’s Carlson and the consistency with how and when he makes his moves to the front of the pack on the racetrack that is. And if you’ve seen him in action as much as I have you see it unfold before your eyes. It isn’t that Carlson hasn’t had quality competition going after him, it’s just that time and time again he’s a step ahead of their every move. While the group he’s racing with is thinking about their next move, Carlson’s taken the spot! It’s almost uncanny how often it happens. Of course nothing beats laps at different size and different configured racetracks and Carlson has a ton of those. Turning those laps into knowledge and experience get’s the job done and that’s why Carlson, “who still has it”continues to win and is poised to grab another Championship here in 2014.
That other Steve, Holzhausen, still has it as well and he through the years has accomplished much the same in the way of accomplishments in racing as Carlson but in a more methodical way. If you watch Steve Holzhausen on the racetrack especially while at his forte of a longer length Feature, he may just put you to sleep. While others are racing out to huge leads in an event, Holzhausen bides his time racing mid-pack-ish waiting for the right moment to strike. Just when the drivers racing up front think they have something for him, maybe even see him up ahead and think they’ll lap him, he puts it in another gear. It’s the Holzhausen gear and the one almost nobody else has! I was able recently to catch Steve H in action at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., in a 100 lap race and it really looked like he was going nowhere. Most folks could have made that same assumption watching the first 50 laps of the race. But after a break, it was time to go and before you could say that was a nice nap, Holzhausen was up to 3rd place. With the early leaders having little or nothing left at this point Holzhausen swooped into the lead stretching his margin to whatever he wanted it to be when the checkered flag waved after 100 laps. Not a one time occurrence, Holzhausen has made a career of racing and winning in this fashion and consequently after witnessing this action you can say “He still has it”.
Of course speaking of Championship drivers Champions Reunion VI is being held as part of Oktoberfest racing weekend October 2-5, 2014 at the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway of West Salem, Wisconsin. The reunion portion of the program will be held Sunday October 5th, from 11am-2pm in the Hospitality Chalet which is east of the main grandstands in turn 1.Already even with the event a little ways off, a great line up of drivers has indicated they will be on hand. Tom Steuding who raced both on pavement and dirt is one who will be in attendance. Steuding showed a bit more prowess on dirt surfaces having won championships at Wisconsin tracks in Marshfield, Menomonie, Neilsville and Eau Claire. Jim Hendricks who won Championships at Beaver Dam, Cedarburg, Hales Corners, Lake Geneva and Slinger, WI., venues will be in attendance. John Bell is coming, he who is a champion at Tomah Sparta Speedway. Steve Scholze who won Championships at Tomah-Sparta Speedway as well as part of the Oktoberfest racing weekend will also be at the Reunion. The legendary Tom Reffner winner of the Old Style 200 race at Elko Speedway, World Cup 400 winner at I-70 Speedway of Odeesa, MO., and many time track champion will be in attendance. Marv Marzofka 1973 Oktoberfest Champion will be in attendance. Jim Sauter John Mc Karns ARTGO Series and La Crosse Speedway Champion will also be there. Even an ice racing champion in the person of Geno Broesch who also raced paved and dirt track race cars will be in attendance this year. This is just a sampling of whose coming and any other drivers interested in being a part of it, still can by contacting this scribe at the addresses listed below. The event is a lot of fun for fans as well as the stories told bench racing are priceless and best of all it’s free for those holding a Sunday ticket. At the risk of sounding like a talking advertisement, if you haven’t been to this reunion, you need to as it’s a great time for all.
Looking back in time at some racing results in 1999 at Oktoberfest during Friday action, it was Wayne Breitenfeldt winning the Feature. He was followed by Jason Weinkauf, Gary Back, Mark Eswein and Chris Weinkauf… Going back to 10/5/01 at Oktoberfest it was Dan Fredrickson winning the CWRA Feature event over Bobby Wilberg, Kirby Kurth, Chris Weinkauf and Clint Sillars…In 2003, day 3 of Oktoberfest it was Tim Schendal and Charlie Menard winning the even/odd feature events in the Wisconsin Late Model Division. Following Schendal were Eddie Hoffman, Ron Breeze, Jr., Steve Carlson and Jason Weinkauf. Behind Menard were Dean Cornelius, Andy Burgess, Mike Belling and Loren Kurth…
The quote of the column this time around comes from Tom Reffner. “He looks like he might get lapped but he saves his car. He saves the tires. He’s a good racer, a smart racer.” Reffner commenting on the Steve Holzhausen style of racing.
Pics from the past: The Lyle Nabbefeldt driven Chicken Coupe race car which for the first time ever will be at Champions Reunion VI as part of Oktoberfest. The Chicken Coupe in race trim in the 1960s before Mike Wall found it in a junk yard in pieces, purchased it for a 12 pack and restored it to original. Another car one of the first stars of Wisconsin racing Lyle Nabbefeldt drove, the Tire Town X. Steve Holzhausen #78 at Oktoberfest 2000. Steve Carlson Trop Arctic 66 sponsored car.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827, 608-518-2478, or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
Sept 2014
MIKE MILLER OBSERVES A GREAT ERA OF CWRA RACING
We start out this months MRC column with highlights from a conversation with short track racing star Mike Miller.
“When the Central Wisconsin Racing Association came up with the 9-1 Engine Compression rule it went Nationwide. I’ll bet we saved racers across the U.S. 100 million dollars on that.
We’d race 100 times a year back in the 1970s and ‘80s. Up to 5 days a week and twice on Sunday. Race somewhere Sunday afternoon and get back in time to race that night at our home track Golden Sands Speedway in Plover. (WI.)
When we were racing then, we could run 30 Features in a month and still have some month left! I remember racing 12 days in a row. Around the Holidays especially you could do that.
There were probably 6 or so of us that were racing for a living back in those days. You could do that then because we had so many opportunities to race, and a lot of those shows were specials that paid good money.
We had a gentleman’s agreement not to buy new tires every race. And, we’d run off our old tires every Wednesday at La Crosse and then buy new ones at Wausau Thursday to start off our racing week.
We had some good races at Wausau. One year there were four Features that the combined differential between 1st and 2nd was a bumper! I won three of those Features and Dick Trickle won one. Although if Dick was here today he may tell you he remembered it differently.
It really helped to be one of the fastest qualifiers at Wausau. You could pick the lane right away that moved first and get right up and race for the lead. And you still had enough laps left to race for the win.
With the uniform rules CWRA came up with that got established across the U.S. we could take our cars and race almost anywhere. Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Missouri, Michigan, Colorado, Nevada, California, Washington, Tennessee, Florida – Everywhere. We didn’t just race either; we won those races which paid really good money!
One of my biggest wins, actually it was my biggest win, came at the Minnesota State Fair. It was a month or so after Larry Detjens was killed racing. I just know Larry was riding with me that day.
Larry was a dear friend of mine. He would have made it in NASCAR because he was so good in long distance races. Within a year or so he would have been down there, but than he got killed. To this day it brings tears to my eyes to think about it.
The biggest problem I see with today’s racing is the aero of the cars, and at the NASCAR Cup level it’s the worst. Get the cars 5-6 inches off the ground and you’d have better racing.
If we could get back to uniform rules and have all the tracks and promoters included, racing could get back to, or at least close to what it was when I raced. I hope that happens, and with CWRA re-established and looking to get back into the rules making end of things maybe it can.”
Speaking of CWRA they will be having their racing Reunion on September 27th at the Lions Club in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. Many racing celebrities will be on hand for this the second reunion the group is having.
And don’t forget about the 6th Annual Champions Reunion to be held as part of Oktoberfest Racing weekend, Sunday October 5th, from 11-2pm. Many past racing champions will be on hand for this event and the public is welcome to attend free with a Sunday ticket.
Here and there…Steve Carlson rebounded nicely from a poor night the week before to win the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway Saturday night. Carlson outlasted Matt Henderson, Cole Howland, Brad Powell and Mike Koenecke in the caution plagued event…Howland kept his chances for a top five finish in points intact with a 3rd place run in Matt Henderson’s backup car. All in all a good night for that team as matt placed 2nd in the main…Covering some previous racing action in recent weeks at Lax Fairgrounds Adam Degenhardt, Steve Carlson, Mike Carlson and Brad Powell have all picked up feature wins at the Speedway…At the Fairgrounds on 8/2/14 a couple females stole some of the spotlight as both Kayla Rae Lockington and Kayla Steinhoff took heat wins in the Thunderstox Division. And speaking of racing gals, Mandi Eckleberg got her first ever win taking a heat race victory in the Sportsman Division on 8/9/14. Todd Lockington crossed the finish line first in the race but was disqualified moving Eckleberg up to first. She was even allowed later in the show to grace victory lane with the checkered flag which is only right for your first ever win…Tabi Swenson made her first ever racing appearance at the Speedway 8/9 competing in the Hornet Division. That in itself may not be that unusual but the 17 year old did it behind the wheel of a 1980 Chevy Citation! She put the car through its paces, maybe too much so, as it didn’t complete the entire Feature distance before smoke could be seen rising from under the hood of the “Classis” race car…Fat Phylis almost had her way. We’re talking about the Steve Scholze owned Cole Scholze driven Outlaw car that looks rather wide and carries that nickname that almost won the Outlawz Feature 8/9/14 at Lax. Scholze had taken the lead in the 0No numbered car only to have the rear end go out of the car before the checkered flag waved. A painful occurrence to say the least but Phylis vowed to be back to finish out the racing season…And she did, and nothing went wrong this time as she won the Outlawz Feature event at the track 8/23/14 taking the point lead in the process with one race left…The Mid-America Stock car group was at Lax Frgnds 8/16/14 with Rick Corso and Rick Tachman taking Feature wins. The Mid-Am group always puts on a competitive racing show and tonight was no different with close racing throughout… Brad Waits raced to his 4th main event win of 2014 at Mississippi Thunder Speedway, of Fountain City, WI. here recently. Waits held off Lance Hofer and Lucas Schott for the win…
Looking back at racing on September 30th, 1974 it was Mike Miller winning the National Short Track Championship 200 at Rockford Speedway, Rockford, IL. Miller bested Joe Shear, Wayne Stallsworth, Ramo Stott, Don Leach, Tom Jones, Larry Detjens, Danny Bellard, Al Schill and Ed Hoffman at the finish. The win was worth over $3,000 to Miller. 80 cars representing 5 States were on hand for the event. On October 22nd, 1978 it was Mike Miller taking his Olds Cutlass to victory in the 150 lap Feature at Mesa Marin Speedway of Bakersfield, CA. Miller outdistanced Jim Thirkettle, Roy Smith, Joe Ruttman and Larry Phillips for the $4,000 win. On October 29th, 1978 Mike Miller steered his 1978 Olds Cutlass to the 150 lap Feature win at the Craig Road Speedway, of Las Vegas, NV. The win for Miller was worth $7,000 as he won out over Jim Thirkettle, Joe Ruttman, Larry Phillips and Dan Press. On August 30th, 1981 Mike Miller captured the AMSOIL 300 race at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds of Falcon Heights, MN. Miller crossed the finish line 1st ahead of Mike Eddy, Darrell Waltrip, Dick Trickle, Jim Sauter, Joe Shear, Bob Senneker, Rusty Wallace, Alan Kulwicki and Don Gregory. Miller dedicated the huge win to friend Larry Detjens who was tragically killed in a racing accident earlier in the month…
Pics from the past: 1974 Mike Miller racing in Wisconsin in his Ford Mustang. Miller moved from New Prague, MN to Wisconsin Rapids, WI., to race full time. Mike Miller 1978 Olds Cutlass. Miller had his winningest seasons in 1978 and 1979 racing a pair of Cutlasses. 1978 27 Feature wins, 1979 33 main event wins. Miller raced Chevy Camaros in 1980 and ’81 winning the Minnesota Fair race 300 two years in a row.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
August 2014
Some things never change and in this case that’s a good thing!
The Shawano Speedway, Shawano, WI., has been running virtually the same race program at the ½ mile clay, Fairgrounds oval for probably 25 years now which appears to be the main contributor to their success and longevity.
I don’t get to the speedway as often as I would like but when I do I’m always impressed with the race program. The show featuring Late Models, Modifieds, Stock Cars, Sport Mods and Mighty 4’s started at it’s advertised time of 6pm and ran smooth and efficiently from there on. Racing was competitive in all divisions and even produced a photo finish in the headlining division, the Late Models. Paul Parker, son of the famed Pete Parker led nearly the entire race but a late closing Nick Anvelink, the son of long time racer Terry made things extremely close at the end of 20 laps. With the two racing side by side the last lap upon crossing the stripe it was almost too close to call. Almost. After a lengthy review it was determined that Parker was the winner by about an inch over Anvelink with Dough Blashe, Troy Springborn and Justin Hirt rounding out the top 5 finishers. Maybe the fact that generation after generation of race driver appears at the speedway year after year is the reason for the track’s success all this time. You’re looking at 2nd, 3rd and even four generations of driver having and currently competing at the track which has created a great fan identity with the participants. Helping in that capacity is the fact fans can be practically hands on with many of the drivers as numerous race teams are pitted right behind the main grandstands. It’s common to see drivers conversing with these fans throughout the evening. With what I saw this would be a great idea for other tracks to pick up on as there is no better way for new fans to get interested in the sport than with an up close and personal conversation.
Something else worth considering for other tracks is that Shawano runs their headlining event, in this case the Late Model Division Feature, earlier in the program rather than last as too many other dirt tracks do. The result tonight was a great feature finish due in large part to there still being a track surface left to race in multi-grooves on!
All in all a fun night at the Speedway and heading back home having seen an entire race program before 10pm. That’s another thing more tracks should concentrate on, getting their programs over with at a reasonable hour. Shawano does it well and it shows as a great crowd was on hand for the event. With that in mind we’ll look forward to attending another event there in the near future.
Speaking of dirt racing it was off to the Mississippi Thunder Speedway, Fountain City, WI., for a show there on a recent Friday. An extremely racy surface held up well and on this night the big winner was Brad Waits who won the Modified Feature. Josh Angst put up a good fight, as the two raced side by side for numerous laps, but had to settle for 2nd at the stripe.
La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., has gotten some shows in here this month with NASCAR Late Model Feature winners being Brad Powell, (2) Todd Korish and Steve Carlson. Carlson again the most consistent of the LM drivers is leading the track point standings by a relatively comfortable margin over Powell and Mike Koeneke. Both Powell and Koenecke had Feature races they didn’t finish and that is the difference in the standings as Carlson has finished them all!
Here and there…26 NASCAR Late Models raced during the Fair here at
La Crosse Fairgrounds July 19th which is the high water mark for the year…Other winners at Shawano Speedway, July 5th were Travis Van Straten, Stock Cars, Lucas Lamberies, Sport Mods, Matt Oreskovich, Modifieds and Joshua Slowinski in the Mighty 4’s Division roaring all the way from last to the lead in just 12 laps!...Winners at Mississippi Thunder July 18th besides Waits included Bobby Fort Jr., in Pure Stocks, Ben Anderson in B-Mods, Curt Myers in Super Stocks, Shaun Mann in Street Stocks and John Severtson in the Hornet Division …In TUNDRA Series Super Late Model action at
La Crosse Fairgrounds it was Reagan May taking the 40 lap Feature win. For May it was the first time ever at the Speedway and that probably helped the driver in not knowing the things you aren’t supposed to be able to do at the track. One being racing most of the event in the outside groove. Adam Royle had ample opportunity to pass May on the inside but just couldn’t pull it off placing 2nd. Donny Reuvers, Ty Majeski and Dalton Zehr rounded out the top 5. And for those who aren’t in the know and with a name like Reagan not very revealing, May is a female competitor…A regular race program was held along with the TUNDRA Series and it was Majeski taking his La Crosse car to the 25 lap NASCAR late Model win. Majeski won a duel with leader Cole Howland to take the win while Steve Carlson sneaked into 2nd with a lap to go. Howland ended up a disappointing 3rd with Matt Henderson and Brad Powell the top 5…Brian Hesselberg after struggling most of the year finally won a race at Lax and it was the one that counts the most, the 15 lap Sportsman Feature. Jamie Dummer was a close 2nd with Justin Millikin 3rd…Black flags and other infractions seem to be behind Jason Bolster as he won the 15 lap Thunderstox Feature. With the win Bolster has also taken the lead in that Division’s point standings…Ty Majeski at 19 years of age, Reagan May just 20, Claire Decker and her sister Natalie, who have won Super Late Model main events this year appear to currently be the new wave of young drivers making their mark in the sport. Hopefully they enjoy the success they are having at this level and don’t think it is an automatic ticket to big league racing which we know is of course bringing huge dollars to the table for a chance to compete…Johnny Gilbertson offered up a sizeable reward for the winner of the TUNDRA Series Feature at Lax. Sizeable in the form of a 6’10” trophy to the victor of the event Reagan May!
In the quote of the column department, “It hasn’t hit me yet, maybe this is just a dream I won this race.” Reagan May’s reply after being asked how she felt after winning the Tundra Series Feature at La Crosse, July 26th.
Looking back at racing at the Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI., on July 17th, 1971 it was Marv Marzofka winning the Late Model Feature event followed by Bill Retallick, Marlin Walbeck, Jim Back and Dave Field. The Semi-Feature went to Norm Bartnick with Consolation race honors going to Larry Ravenscoph. Heat race victors were Ron Backburg, Dick Bentley, Pete Mahlum and Jim Back. The Trophy Dash was won by Dick Trickle with fast time honors going to Trickle at 14:52 seconds around the 1/3 mile paved oval. That was a new track record which eclipsed the old mark set by Trickle two weeks earlier at 14:74. July 16th, 1971 found Marv Marzofka winning the 20 lap Feature at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. Marzofka bested Larry Behrens and Larry Anderson for the win. Semi-Feature honors went to Don Grant, while heat race victors were Fred Beckler, Lyle Nabbefeldt and Anderson. The Trophy Dash was won by Rich Somers.
Pics from the past: Pete Parker doing some racing at the Deer Creek Speedway, Racine, MN., in 2002. Brent Larson racing his wing thing #19 at what was then the Monster Hall Raceway of Unity, WI., July 23rd, 2002. Larson won the Open comp race and took home 4 Grand in the process. Marv Marzofka #91 racing his Ford Torino at Dells Motor Speedway in 1971.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
July 2014
With the weather either threatening or in a deluge rain mode, it’s been difficult to get in many shows this year but we did manage to get in a show and a ½ at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway of West Salem, WI.
The completed show occurred here June 21st and taking top honors on the night in the NASCAR Late Model division Feature race was Mike Koeneke. Koeneke is proving to be a legitimate title contender this year as he has already won 3 Feature events. Of course it hasn’t hurt that the car Koeneke drives is a two time champion in the division driven by none other than Steve Carlson. A third title for the car is a distinct possibility as Koeneke is leading the point standings as we speak. In order to accomplish that feat Koeneke will have to contend with multi-championship winning driver Steve Carlson who is again competing full time at the track. Carlson is currently 2nd in points with a Feature win and has been consistent as usual which will keep him in the hunt for the duration of the season. If anything should happen to those two drivers former track champion Brad Powell is within striking distance currently 3rd in the standings. Powell had mechanical trouble a couple weeks back and is now racing in his backup car. The car is set up to run the La Crosse Fairgrounds 5/8 mile however and he continues to keep pace with the leaders.
Also on this night it was first career Late Model win for rookie competitor Randy Humfeld as he captured the 1st heat race victory. Humfeld outpaced Shawn Pfaff and Jerimy Wagner for the win.
Bill Niles meanwhile took his 3rd heat race victory in a row which is a personal best for the long time competitor at the track. On this night Niles out-paced Texas traveler Scott Rand for the win.
The new Street Stock Division is building a following at the track and John Eron has the most momentum thus far having won every race he’s competed in! Can a bounty on his head be far off?
In the Sportsman Division it is looking like Steve Bachman and Greg Scheck are going to be battling it out all season long for that division’s championship with Jamie Dummer and Nick Clements withing striking distance. On this night it was Bachman taking the 15 lap Feature win with Scheck following and Dummer in 3rd.
In Thunderstox Division racing it was perennial front runner Jason Bolster appearing to grab the Feature win only to be shown the black flag for moving a competitor out of the way. I would have moved the other car out of the way too as it was about to be a lap down and right in the racing groove on the last corner of the last lap of the race! Unfortunately for Bolster it wasn’t the last encounter with the black laundry as it was also shown to him in the Street Stock Division. Finally, in the figure 8 race he finished a clean 2nd and could at least head home feeling a little better about the night.
The ½ a race program we alluded to was on June 28th where just a portion of the program was completed before the monsoon hit ending the night’s racing. Before the storm hit, a hit of a different kind took place as Lisa Hohlfeld, wife of Jerry Hohlfeld competing in one of the Faster Pastor races smacked into the big tractor tire coming out of turn two on the small track which ended up putting her car on its top! She wasn’t hurt, but her night of racing was done before it even started and after that episode her career in the sport may be over too. Late Model winners on the night before the deluge included Matt Henderson and Randy Humfeld with Sportsman race honors going to Jimmy Gilster and Brian Hesselberg.
Here and there…Rookie of Year contender Ty Majeski won his first ARCA Midwest Tour race taking the win at Illiana Speedway of Schereville, IN…Other Tour winners of late include Erik Jones, Chris Weinkauf and Travis Sauter. For Weinkauf it was ARCA Tour career race win number 1 matching his brother Jason who has also won in ARCA MT competition…Brad Powell plans to race in the TUNDRA Series Super Late Model race to be held at Lax. On July 26th. He’ll also race his NASCAR late Model the same night…A couple drivers claim 2014 will be their farewell tour racing. They include points leader Mike Koeneke and Todd Korish. Steve Carlson never says whether he’s racing each year it’s usually contingent on his racing backers and owners giving him a little nudge back into the drivers seat each season…
In a flash from the past on Tuesday night, June 29th at the Dells Motor Speedway it was Dick Trickle taking a special event 100 lap Feature. Following Trickle were Bill Retallick, Tom Reffner, John Ziegler, Marv Marzofka, Joe Shear, Jim Back, George Thornton, Don James and Steve Manke. The 40 lap Semi-Feature went to Fred Bender over Jerry Eckardt and Dick Ambrose. The 20 lap consolation race went to Darrell Busch, with the non-qualifiers race win going to Ralph Bakewell. Trickle posted the fastest qualifying lap at 14:74 seconds around the 1/3 mile paved oval. It was reported the largest crowd to ever attend an event at the track was on hand, 6,000 plus fans. In the quote of the column, “I know how good that car is I won two Championships with it.” That’s Steve Carlson commenting on the car Mike Koeneke is driving at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway and currently leading the NASCAR Late Model points with…
Pics from the past: Sonny Immerfall and Mike Niles battle at the La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI., we believe sometime in the 1970s or early ‘80s. Henry “Butch” Miller of Michigan was one of the winningest drivers racing this car in 1985. Long time racer Karl Fenske racing at the Steele County Fairgrounds of Owatonna, MN., in 1986.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
June 2014
Well, sadly Wisconsin has lost another true icon of short track racing as Marlin Walbeck of Rib Lake, Wisconsin passed away earlier this spring. Marlin was the first prolific winner in our part of the Country when paved short track racing was in its infancy but soon to begin growing at a rapid pace.
Before Dick Trickle became the short track king it was Walbeck barnstorming the circuit which consisted of racing nearly every night of the week. According to Walbeck, “It was pretty rough, but you could race 6-7 nights a week and make some good money. We’d race Tuesday through Saturday and twice on Sunday. We raced at Tomahawk, Wausau, Wis. Dells, Tomah, Adams Friendship, Black River Falls, Stratford, Wisconsin Rapids and everywhere else we could. Then on Monday we’d work on the car so we could race again the next week.”
The good money Walbeck was talking about was $35,000 dollars one particular year in the early ‘60s. “That was really good money back then and we only had $500 in the race car! Expenses were low then too, one summer I used just one set of tires all year. You can’t do that now.”
Walbeck attributed much of his success due to having great help with the car. “When you have good people behind you like I had, it’s tough to beat. Mogie Dahl was building me great Chevy engines that would last plus I had Bill Bernhagen, Frank Kresch and Ken Niemi working on the car and they were all good.” Of course with winning comes the chant of cheating. “We won so much guys would try to watch everything we did to figure out what we were doing. One night Mogie put an STP sticker on the car and sure enough everyone else did too thinking that was a reason why we were so fast!
Although Walbeck was the cream of the crop he did have good competition. “Augie Winkleman could really make a car go. But he’d get in such a hurry you really had to watch him, he’d run right into you. Ev Fox was a good racer, Ken Pancratz, Marv Marzofka, Dick Trickle, Tom Reffner were all good once they got going. With the other racers I always liked to start in the back. That way I could see what they were doing and before they knew it I’d passed them! I’d get three, four a lap that way.”
Having seen Walbeck race for a number of years I was able to witness his plan of action night after night at Wisconsin tracks. What differentiated Walbeck from others was how smooth and clean a driver he was. While others were sliding around driving over their heads Walbeck had is every moved planned and 9 times out of 10 made it pay off with a win. He was that good. One of my fondest memories was a race at the Golden Sands Speedway in the late ‘60s between Walbeck and Jim Back. The two raced nearly side by side for the entire extra length Feature event. Finally Back edged Walbeck for the win but it to this day is one of the best races I’ve ever seen. Walbeck being more aggressive probably could have nudged Back out of the groove to win, but he didn’t race that way, ever! Walbeck parlayed this smooth, clean driving style into a huge win at the most prestigious race of the time the National Short Track Championships at Rockford, Illinois Speedway. Letting everyone else wear themselves out and their cars driving like it was a 30 lap race, Walbeck bided his time taking a late lead and going on to win the race in 1967. An over $1,000 pay-off for the win was icing on the cake.
The forward thinking Walbeck also secured sponsorship while racing in an era that virtually offered none for such efforts. “We had the use of a Tombstone Pizza truck for two years and all the pizza you could eat! They sold the pizza wherever we raced and got money from the sales. They treated us real well and it really helped with our racing. These days I don’t know how guys can make it with all they spend on the cars.”
With a career that spanned from the early ‘50s until the mid ‘70s Walbeck gave up the sport he proved to be one of the best ever yet at because of the time it consumed. “In order to race I had to be gone all the time. I hardly saw my kids so I decided to give it up.”
And so a driver that to a large extent pioneered the sport and went about it in all the right ways is now gone. With all that he did during his era of racing it makes you wonder how it might be today if he hadn’t chosen the sport of stock car racing way back when. I hope everyone realizes this and does not forget the first true superstar of racing in our area, as the sport today probably wouldn’t exist as it does without his efforts. Rest in peace Marlin Walbeck.
Here and there…The streak is over. Travis Sauter finally LOST a race at Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI. as it was Nate Haseleu taking the 100 lap main event win there in ARCA Midwest Tour action May 4th. Sauter was looking for his 11th in a row at the track but a late race wreck put a halt to his chances of winning. Kyle Shear in his first ever attempt at Super Late Model racing almost pulled off the upset win but had to settle for 2nd at the checkered flag. Behind Shear was Skylar Holzhausen, Jeremy Miller and Nick Murgic. The race was again held in honor of the great racing legend, Joe Shear…It was off to Wausau, WI., where the mill still smells horrible, the ginseng is still popular with the Chinese and snow is on Rib Mountain well into May. But there was also Midwest Tour racing at the ¼ mile track on May 17th and it was another one of those racing Sauters, this time Tim, taking the 125 lap Feature win. Following Sauter at the finish was Chris Wimmer, Ty Majeski, Skylar Holzhausen and Chris Weinkauf. Good to see Chris and his brother Jason back racing as separate crashes at MIS severely damaged both their cars. I’m sure car owner Jay Vandergeest was absolutely sick looking over the damage to his cars after MIS but he appeared in much better spirits with good looking repaired cars at Wausau. Majeski’s 3rd place run was his best in Tour action so far as he set aside early season gremlins to post an excellent finish…Got to the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., for their 2nd event of 2014, May 24th and it was you know who in victory lane after 25 laps of Feature racing. Mr. Steve Carlson used his millions of laps of experience to hold off a reluctant to try and pass on the outside Brad Powell to take the win in front of a huge $1.00 concession night crowd. Following the two at the line were Mike Koeneke, Matt Henderson and Shawn Pfaff…The May31st show at La Crosse Featured two 20 lap Features for the NASCAR Late Models. Harley Jankowski pulled off the upset win in the 1st 20 holding off Ty Majeski or 5 laps who tried everything to get by on the outside. Unable to make the move pay-off, Majeski ultimately lost the 2nd spot to Brad Powell. Rounding out the top five was Steve Carlson, and Mike Koeneke. 20 number two went to Koeneke who withstood pressure from Majeski who had to settle for 2nd. Top 5 finishers in that race were Carlson, Powell and Cole Howland… The Dick Trickle Memorial Fund ground breaking event took place in his hometown of Rudolph, WI., on May 18th and what a great turn out appeared for the fund raiser. Saw many folks I hadn’t seen in years at the ground breaking and it was almost like being at a race somewhere back in the ‘70s! A great time was had by all and numerous other Memorial Fund events are planned for the future to honor the racing Legend, Dick Trickle…
Taking a look back in time at a small portion of the Marlin Walbeck racing file, on Sunday afternoon, June 25th, Marlin Walbeck captured the 25 lap Feature at Wausau’s State Park Speedway outdistancing Ken Pancratz and Dick Trickle. On Thursday night, June 13th 1963, Marlin Walbeck in his famous #30 won the 25 lap Feature at the Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. On Friday night, June 23rd, 1961 Marlin Walbeck won the Feature at AF Speedway of Adams Friendship Wisconsin out racing Larry Drake, Cal Breezer, Art Link and Vern Piotrowski. On Saturday night, July 7th 1962, Marlin Walbeck won the Feature event at the Black River Falls Speedway, Black River Falls, WI., racing ahead of Dave Frogatt, Dean Spohn and Everett Fox. On Wednesday night, August 14th, 1963 Marlin Walbeck took the special main event 50 lap race at Stratford Speedway, Stratford, WI. Walbeck out dueled Everett Fox, Dave Marcis and Dick Schultz for the win. On Sunday night May 23rd, 1965, Marlin Walbeck took the 30 lap Feature at the Griffith Park Speedway of Wis. Rapids, WI. Walbeck finished ahead of John McNamara, Dick Trickle, Rich Somers and Lyle Nabbefeldt. On Sunday afternoon, April 21st, 1968, Marlin Walbeck took his 1965 Chevelle to the 30 lap Feature win at Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI.
Photos: Before the paved track movement took place Walbeck was racing and winning often on dirt like here at the Marathon County Fairgrounds track in Wausau, WI. One of Marlin Walbeck’s fast 1957 Chevy’s. Marlin Walbeck #30 in a Chevelle that would take him to a huge win in the NSTC at Rockford Speedway in 1967. The #99 behind him couldn’t catch the fleet Walbeck on this day. A common site for nearly 20 years, Walbeck carrying the checkered flag after another win. This one occurring at the Golden Sands Speedway.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
May 2014
Ba, ba, ba baby, you ain’t seen nothing yet
Of course that’s a familiar song title by Bachman Turner Overdrive and unfortunately it describes our race attendance so far in 2014. We ain’t seen nothing yet as far as events go!
We did however catch the practice session at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., April 26th and did learn a few things. With the usual rumors flying about Steve Carlson racing or not here at the track it would appear on this day at least he is as he was shaking down his Late Model. According to John Gilbertson who has ownership stake in the car, Carlson will be racing on Saturday nights and going after another Championship. It appears son Mike will also be at the track Saturday nights as the Father son duo once again does battle at the 5/8 mile paved oval track.
The Christenson name will again be a part of racing action at La Crosse Fairgrounds this year as Travis plans to race frequently at the track. Shaking down his car on Saturday found a number of bugs to work out including transmission and engine troubles. Hopefully those issues are minor and Travis will make his way out to compete in the NASCAR Late Model Division season opener on May 17th.
Carter Christenson the son of Ken Christenson, Jr., also plans to race in the NASCAR Late Model Division as a rookie competitor this year. Carter is the latest in a long line of Christenson’s racing and although the team won’t be able to race every week they do hope to make their presence known throughout the year.
Ty Majeski claims to have a full plate of racing this year which will include racing periodically at La Crosse, competing for Rookie of the Year on the ARCA Midwest Tour and also racing in a number of other Super Late Model events. Majeski figures he’ll run in 32 or so events which by today’s standards is a lot! Of course back in the day Dick Trickle probably would have had that many events run by the end of May! Even in my short racing career in 1977 I raced in nearly 40 events. My, how times have changed.
Folks will be seeing John Radtke’s #7 4 cylinder race car at a number of different venues this year. Radtke, who was practicing at La Crosse on the “Little” track plans to race in the 10 events held at Lax Fairgrounds for the division along with 5 or so on the dirt at Mississippi Thunder Speedway of Fountain City, WI., and other tracks both paved and dirt in the region. Radtke always has spiffy looking equipment so it’s no wonder he’s able to attract and keep sponsorship for his efforts. John is also one of those that will do what he can for the betterment of the sport and we can never have too many of those people!
Here and there…Hopefully the THERE is a track to view racing at and HERE soon as the weather forecast looks good for such a thing to happen the weekend of May 2-4th. We’ll update you on that in our next effort in the June MRC…
And looking back in time, on April 11th, 1971 it was Dave Watson winning the Capital Speedway, Oregon, WI., season opening Feature in his 1969 Chevelle. Joe Shear in a 1971 Chevelle was fast qualifier on the day at 20:26 seconds around the ½ mile paved oval. The second event held there on April 17th 1971 found Don Leach winning the 30 lap Feature event. He was followed by Dave Watson, Joe Jones, Tom Torbleau and Dan Bellard. Semi-Feature honors went to Wayne Swartout followed by Roger Tofsland, Ray Burkhalter, Bob Austin, and Jim Wipperwurth. Heat race winners were Swartout, Torbleau and Leach with Marv Marzofka setting fast time in his 1969 Torino at 19:91 seconds. Of note, adult admission for the racing at the track in 1971 was $2.50 with students 12-16 admitted for $1.50 and kids under 12 free!
Photos: Justin Zmyewski #97 is one of the drivers competing for Rookie of the year at La Crosse Fairgrounds this year. Cole Howland having improved every season will be one to watch in the Late Model Division at La Crosse this season. Carter Christenson in Dad’s late Model at La Crosse. J. Herbst #82 won’t be racing full time at La Crosse this year but instead running a full slate of Big 8 Series events as well as a number of Super Late Model races throughout the state. Some cool pics 1984 vintage featuring dirt racers #1 Tom Nesbit and #71 Leon Plank. How many main event wins did these two combine for do you think?
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
April 2014
It’s that time of year again when we wonder “How in the World are we going to get the racing season started? Especially with temperatures in the 20s and wind blowing 25 miles per hour. But we will and soon as April is all but here and engines are being fired up as we speak!
Looking at upcoming season openers on the pavement side of things we see Rockford Speedway of Rockford, IL., will have their 37th Annual Spring opener on Sunday, April 13th. The Big 8 Late Models will be the featured attraction on the notoriously tough to handle ¼ mile high banked oval.
The La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway of West Salem, WI is changing things up this year by holding their first event on Sunday afternoon, April 27th. It’s on that day the Frost buster race will be held with Late Models, Sportsman, Thunderstox, Hornets and Outlawz divisions of racing on the card. Regular Saturday night racing will begin on May17th at the track with a number of special events being presented.
Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI has their 2014 season opener set for Saturday night, May 3rd. Main attraction for the evening will be the Super Late Models competing in a 50 lap Feature event.
Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., has also chosen May 3rd for their opening night of racing with Late Models the top attraction. The 1/3 mile paved oval will also hold a number of events for the Super Late Model Division this year including the return of the ARCA Midwest Tour on June 28th. Speaking of the Tour they will hold the Annual Joe Shear Classic at Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI., on May 3-4 culminating with a 100 lap main event on Sunday afternoon at the big ½ mile oval.
State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI., will also get their season going with an ARCA Midwest Tour event on Saturday, May 17th.
The Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI has another full schedule of events planned beginning with their opener on Friday, May 9th. Super Late Models will again be the top billed attraction on the super fast 1/3 mile high banked oval.
Veterans Speedway of Tomah, WI., held racing last year but we have yet to hear of their plans for 2014. The promotional group that ran things in 2013 is gone and sadly promoter of the track, Mike Inglett passed away last year after a long battle with Cancer. Discussion has his son, Jon getting things rolling in 2014.
Looking on the dirt side of things racing wise we see where the Mississippi Thunder Speedway of Fountain City, WI., has set their track opening for 2014 on Friday April 25th. Racing is always exciting at the 3/8 mile clay oval with the Modifieds the top attraction on a weekly basis.
Other tracks within reasonable traveling distance of our neck of the woods set to open in 2014 include Deer Creek Speedway, of Racine, WI., on Saturday, April 5th, the Upper Iowa Speedway of Decorah, Iowa on April 19th, Farley Speedway, of Farley, Iowa on April 18th, with a Deery Brothers Late Model event, and the Dubuque Speedway, Dubuque, Iowa, May 18th. A track we enjoy catching events at The Independence Motor Speedway, Independence, Iowa will open on Saturday April 26th with a Late Model, Modified, Stock car, Sport Mod and Hobbystock show. The 1/3 mile clay oval always produces great racing action with three racing grooves utilized by drivers to get the job done. Another dirt track we like to visit that has seen limited use in recent years, the Cresco Speedway of Cresco Iowa will hold a number of events in 2014. The Upper Iowa Speedway promotional group will be presenting most of them this racing season.
Yes, we will get our racing season started here soon so get out and support your local track while you still have one!
Looking back in time at some opening events at tracks it was Marlin Walbeck in #30 winning the 25 lap Feature at the AF Speedway, of Adams Friendship, WI on June 2nd, 1961. It was the first ever event held at the newly paved track. In the past racing was held on a dirt surface. Following Walbeck at the finish was #64 Augie Winkleman, #68 Ron Deboer, the X of Lyle Nabbefeldt and #16 Les Katzner. Lyle Nabbefeldt in the X car won the Feature event at the all new Black River Falls Speedway of Black River Falls, WI., on August 12th 1961. Following Nabbefeldt in the Feature race was Augie Winkleman, Marlin Walbeck, Vic Kopacz, and Bud Barfnecht. The Capital Speedway of Oregon, WI., opened in 1965 with Semi-Late model cars the featured attraction. The opener on Sunday afternoon, May 2nd found Eddy Hume taking the win followed by Les Helgestad and Roger Shear. The Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI opened in 1963 with the first recorded results, May 27th, showing Marlin Walbeck the Feature winner over Augie Winkleman. Johnny Pouleson won the Main event at the all new La Crosse Fairgrounds track of West Salem, WI., on August 8th, 1957 in his “Big Car”. And more recently it was J. Herbst winning the 2013 La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway opener on April 20th, outdistancing Mike and Steve Carlson in the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model event.
Photos: 2013 opening day La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway action with Brad Powell in the #23 NASCAR Late Model. 2013 ARCA Midwest Tour action with a pair of 5s Johnny Sauter leading and Nephew Travis looking to pass. 1970s era of racing with Mike Miller racing and winning in his Mustang. One of the famous Lyle Nabbefeldt X cars.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
March 2014
With all the hoopla going on about Austin Dillon racing with the #3 in NASCAR Cup competition I thought I’d take a look at drivers at our level of the sport that have competed with the number three on their race cars. In no particular order of importance or level of success here we go in recognizing some of them.
One of my first exposures to a driver with a number 3 was Harold “Fluff” Furo a racer competing in Central Wisconsin in the hobby stock division. It was back in the late ‘60s with the opening of the Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, that I got a chance to witness Furo wheel his big Dodge to numerous wins in the division. Furo was a driver that preferred the Mopar brand and he was one of very few to race them. With Chevy’s and Fords being raced by most in the area, Furo took his Dodge equipped with torsion bar suspension to win after win. The hobby stock division was a mostly stock race car and in keeping the cars stock, very little could be done to them both in the construction of and in the adjustments made to them. Torsion bars being a stock component from the factory on Chrysler Corporation cars for the purpose of front end alignment, Furo was able to find a huge advantage in being able to adjust them. Although driving a heavier, seemingly underpowered car, Furo dominated competition as his cars literally flew around the competition in the corners due to superior handling characteristics. In those days they’d start the entire field of cars in the main event and undaunted having to start in the rear, Furo, who set fastest qualifying time to earn the spot, would motor through the field passing two and three cars a lap! It was always exciting and great fun watching Furo come from the back of a 30 car or more field of cars to take another Feature win!
Of course when you think of the #3 the legendary Chicken Coupe driven by Lyle Nabbefeldt can’t help but come to mind. Lyle was an extremely popular driver in the ‘60s and competing in the 1932 “Coupe” added to that popularity. One season Lyle actually raced with a live chicken named Rojo in the car. A length of twine tied to Rojo’s foot and the car’s roll cage had fans more than curious as Nabbefeldt traveled the Wisconsin racing circuit. The car wasn’t just for show either as Nabbefeldt drove it to many wins before the full fendered Late Model car took over obsoleting the Coupe cars that were predominant for 20 years. Dewey Moore was a La Crosse, Wisconsin area driver that drove a sister car to the Chicken Coupe called the “Jenny 3”. Moore raced and won everywhere he raced in the 1950s and ‘60s. Moore also got behind the wheel of the Chicken Coupe and raced to many wins in that car as well.
Another racer competing at about this same point in time was Larry Baumel. Larry utilized the #3 on a very unique race car, a Chevy Nomad which he raced at numerous tracks in Wisconsin in the Late Model Division. The car was unique and even more so was the fact Baumel steered from a seat location near the middle of the race car! Although some steering knuckle issues caused some scary moments Baumel did quite well with the car winning a number of races. Baumel also raced number 3 cars in USAC competition in the 1960s and ‘70s.
In Wisconsin racing lore no driver in his day was better known than Miles “The Mouse” Melius. Melius raced Modifieds mostly in South Eastern Wisconsin and did race a number of years with a number 3. The name Weinfurter was a well known one in racing in Central Wisconsin and Merlin Weinfurter had a successful career racing the #3 there. His son Jeff who still races today has raced to numerous wins in a #3 Late Model.
One of the very few drivers that raced out of my hometown of Stevens Point, WI., was Ron Beyer who’s cars were always numbered 3. Beyer raced for many years and won a number of Feature events at various tracks.
No stranger to victory lane Ramo Stott drove a #3 Dodge in USAC competition.
Bruce Sparrman was a driver based out of Minnesota that had a successful racing career. We saw him race a #3 1969 Chevelle at the Midwest Championships at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI., in 1972.
Fred Nielsen fielded vary fast race cars for a number of drivers one being Whitey Harris. Harris drove the number A3 to wins on pavement and also drove a Nielsen Super Modified A3 on the dirt to numerous victories. John Reimer also drove Super Mods and Late Models numbered A3 for Nielsen to many wins. Reimer also drove his own #3 on pavement.
Ed Howe who was a master builder of race cars also did a pretty fair job behind the wheel. Howe raced on both pavement and dirt and among the many different names and numbers he used on his cars he did at one time race a #3.
John Mckarns did a great job of bringing in drivers from different locales to race in his ARTGO series. Randy Slack, hotshoe from Canada was one of them racing his #3 at the Rockford, IL., Speedway.
When we had a chance to venture off to the Eastern part of Wisconsin we’d get a chance to see dirt Late Model hotshoe Red Bedell race his #3 Ford. Speaking of dirt, a driver who had great success racing the number 3 was Kelly Shryock of Iowa in his USMS modified. So successful was Shryock he won all five USMS season Championships! Tim Donlinger didn’t win a USMS championship but he did win races in his #3D modified.
Certainly there are many other drivers we failed to mention or recall driving a car numbered 3, but none more famous then and the one creating all the hoopla here, Dale Earnhardt Sr. Earnhardt was most recognized for his black colored #3 race cars which he raced in both Cup competition as well as on short tracks. Of course with Austin Dillon now in the famous #3 it will be interesting to see if more history is created running that number. Normally there is a story of some kind behind the choice of a number for a race car, and we’re pretty sure that will at some point again be the case with a car numbered 3 in our short track arena as well.
Looking back in time. Thursday night, May 25th, 1967 Lyle Nabbefeldt in the #3 Chicken Coupe 1932 Chevy won the semi-Feature at the Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI. Nabbefeldt also won the 3rd heat race while Dick Trickle won the Feature event.
Photos: Dale Earnhardt Sr., in the infamous black #3. #3D Modified driver Tim Donlinger. 5 time USMS Champion Kelly Shryock #3. Randy Slack #3 racing at Rockford Speedway. Red Bedell #3 Ford. Ed Howe #3 Camaro. Whitey Harris in the #A3. John Reimer #3 Camaro. Ron Beyer #3 1984. Merlin Weinfurter #3 and son Jeff Weinfurter. Ramo Stott racing car #3. Minnesota racer Bruce Sparrman. Miles “The Mouse” Melius, #3. Larry Baumel in “The Wagon”. The Lyle Nabbefeldt driven Chicken Coupe #3. “Jenny 3”. Fluff Furo’s big Dodge.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
February 2014
So our NASCAR Cup Brethren are again or may have already considered changing how they tally points for a season ending Champion.
In just about every racing series everywhere the most consistent driver through the year will win the points championship. No DNFs and top 5-10 finishes with one win during the year will usually get it done. Unfortunately consistency is boring! Fans like a hard charger going for the win, not someone settling for a top five finish and a “Good Points Day”.
Put the emphasis on winning and an excitement we haven’t seen in a long time will be created. I like a winner receiving bonus points for winning the race besides a regular amount for the position finished. So you win one race you get one bonus point. You win two races you get 2 bonus points. Three and its 4 bonus points and on and on. Reward winning and take away the stroking in races. Plus, put some bonus money on winning those races with the same sort of escalating scale. Take some of the season ending point fund money awarded for consistency and put it as bonus money for winning. Or, in our having to have sponsorship dollars to compete World get someone to back a special bonus program for this purpose.
I can remember years ago when points weren’t even tabulated at local race tracks. Championship events were held to determine that year’s titlist. I’m not saying to resort to that type of system again, but obviously even then these tracks and racers were thinking special, significant events as in winning races were the ones for drivers to gear up for and promoters to determine champions.
The NASCAR deal has become so convoluted it just can’t work the way Brian France thinks it has to. Keep it simple and keep rewarding those that win races. If they put on a great show in that pursuit maybe we won’t see so many empty seats at events.
And speaking of points and championships, let’s take a look at the 1981 racing season (Yes we’ve evolved to the ‘80s now in our continuing series of retro articles) where Darrell Waltrip was crowned NASCAR Winston Cup Champion. Waltrip won 12 races on the way to the title but in his own words had to stroke it in the final race to secure the Championship. With a car he felt he could win the final race with, that didn’t sit too well with Waltrip, but unfortunately a point system that kept other drivers in the thick of the battle due to their consistency made him race conservatively.
American Speed Association racing action found Michigan driver Mike Eddy taking the points crown over Dick Trickle. Bob Senneker, Alan Kulwicki and Butch Miller rounded out the top 5 finishers.
Jim Sauter had a good season winning the ARTGO Championship as well as the points title at Wisconsin International Raceway of Kaukauna, WI. In ARTGO competition Sauter took 7 of the 24 Features he competed in.
Marv Marzofka took his fourth season championship at the La Crosse Interstate Speedway of West Salem, WI., winning 5 Feature events on the way to the title. Although he captured 9 main events Dick Trickle still finished 2nd in the points battle. Marzofka also captured the Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI track title on the year winning 3 main events.
Other Champions in the region included Dick Trickle at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI. and in the Red White and Blue State Championship Series at Wisconsin International Raceway, John Ziegler at Capital Super Speedway, Oregon, WI. and the Slinger Super Speedway, Slinger, WI., and Conrad Morgan at the Lake Geneva Raceway of Lake Geneva, WI.
Crossing State borders we see where Tom Jones on the strength of 5 Feature wins captured the Grundy County Speedway, Morris, IL., Late Model Track Championship. Frank Gawlinski won the prestigious Tony Bettenhausen Memorial race at the Illiana Speedway of Schererville, IN. A very unique for it’s time race, the Sante Fe Clay Track 200 was held Annually at the Sante Fe Speedway of Hinsdale, Il. 200 laps of racing on a 3/8 mile dirt track were always exciting and this year’s edition found Arnie Gardner taking the win and the $15,000 paycheck that went with it. Yellow River Speedway of Marshfield, WI held their big season ending event and it was prolific dirt track winner Tom Steuding taking the win. Yellow River was originally built as a dirt track but of course today is the paved Marshfield Motor Speedway.
Canada’s Junior Hanley stole some Midwestern loot taking the Rockford Speedway, Rockford, Il., National Short Track Championship 200 win along the Oktoberfest main event at La Crosse Interstate Speedway. Mike Miller took one of the biggest wins of his career in a 300 lap ASA race at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds of Falcon Heights, MN., in late summer. Dick Trickle captured the Larry Detjens Memorial race held in September at the State Park Speedway. The race was named in the memory of the extremely popular Larry Detjens who was tragically killed in a racing accident in August. Larry was having one of the best years ever racing with discussions taking place that a move to NASCAR’s top level was next. Sadly it wasn’t to be.
And, racing at the short track level in the region was still going great guns as our gang was traveling to events 4-6 days a week. This scribe ended up catching 81 such shows which probably in the grand scheme of things will shorten my life considerably! What a great time to be a race fan though.
And in our looking back in time feature…We find Larry Detjens winning a remarkable 6 Features from June 3rd through June 7th in 1981…Minnesota’s Dan Prziborowski won the Feature race at Dells Motor Speedway on August 1st, 1981 besting Ron Beyer, Marv Marzofka, Steve Murgic and Jim Back. Danny, one of the best ever out of the State of Minnesota also, sadly passed away this past year…Marv Marzofka won the 35 lap Feature race at the Dells Motor Speedway on August 14th, 1971. Marzofka finished ahead of Jim Sauter, Jim Back, Dick Trickle and Marlin Walbeck. Semi-main action found Buck Linhart in 1st with heat race winners Larry Hamlee, Ron Backburg and Billy Wirtz. Trophy Dash honors went to Bob Jusola with Marzofka setting fast time honors at 14:91 seconds around the 1/3 mile Dells oval.
Photos: Jim Sauter racing his Camaro in 1981. Larry Detjens Packerland Packaging Camaro in 1981. 1981 ASA Points Champion Mike Eddy. John Ziegler had an excellent 1981 season racing this car. 1981 ASA Rookie of the Year, Pat Schauer who was also tragically killed in a racing accident in October of 1981.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
Dec 2013 Online
Since by far the biggest news this past year in racing for those of us in this part of the Country was the passing of Dick Trickle, we’ll use this end of the year column to one last time bring up some favorite Trickle memories. The fact Dick accomplished so many things through the years, winning literally every major short track race in the Midwest, we’ll try to focus on the ones we found to be particularly significant.
Most of the racers in Central Wisconsin where we grew up didn’t travel much having plenty of racing opportunities near home. But when Rockford Illinois Speedway decided to hold its National Short Track Championship event in 1966 that changed. The event offering over $1,000 to win and 200 laps of main event racing, which was unheard of at the time was a huge lure. Dick Trickle with barely enough money to get there and a very meager racing operation to work with once he did decided to go anyway. It was really the beginning of what would become one of the most successful short track careers in the United States, as Dick won the event over a huge field of racers from all over the Midwest. The fete really was the turning point for Trickle to race for a living as it paid better than anything he could compete in back home.
Things really started rolling in 1967 when the super high banked Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI., opened. Speeds increased three fold compared to the “Flat track” racing done previously and fans began coming out in droves to see the new stars of the high banks. Trickle mastered the high speeds quickly and won the first ever feature and the track, and the season championship at the 3/10ths mile paved oval. With each year he won more and more and when 1971 rolled around Trickle was at his best up to that point. With a 1969 Ford Torino at his disposal Trickle went on to win 56 Feature events during the year. So prolific was Trickle’s winning at area tracks that promoters put cash bounties on his head for any driver that could beat him. One of the win streaks reached 6 as Trickle won the first ½ dozen races at Golden Sands Speedway before being defeated in his attempt to win a 7th. In July Trickle capped off a great 7 nights of racing by winning the Uncola 100 at the Elko, MN., Speedway. Seven great nights for Trickle was unbelievably winning every night at 7 consecutive race events at numerous tracks. Also significant during the year was Trickle racing in an IMCA event at the I-70 Speedway of Odessa, MO. The field was no match for Trickle as he won the 150 lap event. With his appearance there Trickle was recognized as having raced in all four of the major stock car racing organizations at the time, NASCAR, USAC, ARCA and IMCA.
As amazing as winning 56 Features in 1971 was the fete was not considered the best for a season by any driver. Ramo Stott held that honor having reportedly won 58 main events one season. Undaunted, Trickle set out in 1972 to break the mark. With shorter wheel based cars now allowed in competition Trickle built a Ford Mustang for the season. While most were looking at springs, shocks, spindles and such Dick concentrated on the weight of his car. According to some the car was at least several hundred pounds lighter than what anybody else had and Trickle set the short track racing World on its proverbial ear in 1972 winning 67 Feature events. Winning with ease in Wisconsin Trickle took his show on the road, show as in the “Show Me” State of Missouri. Trickle already had made a name for himself there winning the previous year and consequently got the name “Mister Dick Trickle from Wisconsin Rapids, WI.” as his winning came at the expense of the stars of the day Larry Phillips, Dave Wall and David Goldsberry. He did it again at the Rolla Speedway of Rolla, MI., in the 100 lap “MASCAR” Feature event there and again it was in front of Larry Phillips and David Goldsberry. The win was huge for Trickle as he was reportedly paid $1,500 just to show up in addition to the $2,500 he earned for winning.
By June 10th Trickle had already racked up 20 Feature wins and was well on the way to the season win record. Two more short track racing milestone wins for Trickle occurred while racing in the IMCA sanctioned events as part of the Minnesota State Fair. Trickle took both the Northland 300 and Northland 500 race victories much to the chagrin of the IMCA regulars. Trickle also won two of the three events in the Red, White and Blue State Championship Series held at Wisconsin International Raceway in Kaukauna, WI., and as a result was crowned the first ever Champion of the event. Unprecedented in Wisconsin was the First Annual Midwest Championships held at the Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI., late in the season as 200 laps of racing were scheduled with $2,000 going to the winner. Trickle mastered a stout field of 116 late Model race cars and drivers to win the event and $2,655 in total purse pay-out. Another MASCAR win, a 300 lap event at Odessa, MO’s I-70 Speedway brought Trickle more than $5,000 in winnings. More “Show Me State” of Missouri success came in the way of Dick winning the very prestigious World Cup 400 event at I-70 Speedway in 1978. A cool $8,000 grand awaited Trickle at the pay booth after that victory.
As far as career highlights it’s hard to top 67 Feature wins in a season of racing. Trickle set a standard that hasn’t and more than likely never will be broken in racing. It’s amazing looking at his main event wins during the years. Starting in 1970 with 22, as previously mentioned 56 in ’71, and in 1972, 67. 1973 through 1980 found Trickle winning 47, 21, 12, 8, 54, 47, 39 and 33 Feature events respectively. How do you pick out just a few career highlights out of that list? Another occurred in 1979 when Trickle sponsored by Super America convenience stores won that Company’s signature event the 150 lap ASA race at the Milwaukee Mile, West Allis, WI. The event ended a 26 race drought for Trickle there. ASA was becoming the Series of choice for short track competitors offering more in the way of money and publicity. Trickle meanwhile who was never one to shy away from the limelight was eating it up and getting more and more exposure in the process. And speaking of limelight with the success Trickle was enjoying the Wisconsin Rapids, WI., area Chamber of Commerce honored Trickle with a special night commemorating his racing accomplishments. A Billboard was put up as well which you could see as you headed into the City recognizing Trickle as America’s winningest short track driver. How many racers can boast of this type of honor!
The John McKarns ARTGO circuit was generating a lot of interest as well and it received bonus coverage when Dick Trickle pulled off an unbelievable fete in racing. The Series Summer Nationals were scheduled for late August at Dells Motor Speedway and the Capital Super Speedway, Oregon, WI., with five Feature events to be contested between the two tracks. A competitor would look at an event like this and hope to win one, maybe two of the mains. Trickle took both 75 lap mains at the Dells track on a Saturday night which already was a good racing weekend. He then proceeded to win all three 50 lap events the next afternoon which added up to 5 wins in less than 24 hours! Again, it’s probably one of those fetes in racing that will never be repeated.
With short track outlaw type racing seeing some change and Trickle looking to race only in the higher profile, better paying events his schedule consisted mostly of ASA, ARTGO and some special events. One such special event was in 1983 on November 25th, 26th, which saw Trickle taking the short track World in Georgia by storm winning the first ever World Crown 300 at Georgia International Speedway of Jefferson, GA. That win was worth an unheard for short track racing $50,000 to Trickle. Of course the call from NASCAR land finally did come for Trickle as he found himself in relief of Bobby Allison and Mike Alexander in the Miller beer sponsored Cup car. Proving he could get it done at that level Trickle in 1989 went on to win “Rookie of the Year honors at the ripe old age of 48, certainly another Trickle racing highlight.
Although racing and winning in ARCA and NASCAR Busch Grand National,
the true Trickle legacy and highlight film is his short tracking escapades. Yes, he made more money in the upper divisions of racing and the prestige was certainly there, but Dick Trickle’s claim to fame to those of us who followed him was on the short tracks of America. It was the Championships in ASA, ARTGO and at the many Wisconsin short tracks he conquered. That is what defined the driver and career of Dick Trickle. He was racing, winning and a super star of the sport long before NASCAR was cool!
And that is what we will all here remember most. Fetes in racing by one man that will never be duplicated during a time in racing that will never be repeated. Life goes on but certainly everyone that was entertained by the Legend Dick Trickle will never forget.
Looking back in time… on August 15th, 1971 it was Dick Trickle racing to his 42nd Feature win of the season at the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI. Following Trickle in the 40 lap event was Marv Marzofka, Tom Reffner, Jim Back and Steve Manke. Semi-Feature honors went to Buck Linhart. The Trophy Dash went to Trickle with heat race winners, Dick Joss, Dick Bentley, and Reffner. Trickle posted fast time at 12:63 seconds which was a new track record around the 3/10ths mile paved oval Sands track. On August 27th, 1972 Dick Trickle won the Northland 300 IMCA stock car race at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, Falcon Heights, MN. Following Trickle after 300 laps were Marv Marzofka, Tom Reffner, Bill Oas and Mert Williams. On September 4th, 1972 Dick Trickle was victorious in the Northland 500 at Minnesota State Fair Speedway, Falcon Heights, MN. Following Trickle after 500 laps were Dick Stang, Dave Chase, Rich Somers and Les Anderson. On August 25th, 1979 Dick Trickle captured both ARTGO 75 lap Features at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. Following Trickle in the first was Bob Senneker, John Ziegler, Tom Reffner, Randy Sweet and Butch Miller. The 2nd 75 had Mike Miller, Jim Sauter, Mark Martin, Reffner and Ted Musgrave trailing Trickle. On August 26th, 1979 it was Dick Trickle winning all three ARTGO 50 lap Features at the Capital Super Speedway, Oregon, WI. Behind Trickle in the first were Butch Miller, Randy Sweet, Bob Senneker, Joe Shear and Tom Reffner. The 2nd 50 finish was Trickle, Shear, Sweet, Senneker and Reffner. 50 lapper number three found Trickle first followed by Dave Watson, Larry Detjens, Sweet, Senneker and Shear.
Photos:1966 National Short Track Champion, Rockford, IL., Speedway Dick Trickle. Dick Trickle Torino 1971. Dick Trickle Mustang 1972. #2 Montego Trickle raced in NASCAR. 1974 Trickle Mustang. Trickle USAC racing in #44 Chevelle. The Dick Trickle Bopp Chassis Granada Dick raced minimally due to numerous wrecks with the car. Dick wins 1978 World Cup 400 in this Pontiac Firebird. The record breaking Gray Ghost Firebird of Dick Trickle 1979. Trickle circa 1982. More Cup racing for Dick this in 1983. Racing in St. Petersburg Florida with a winged thing in 1985. A new beer to drink for Trickle in 1986. Cup Rookie of the Year in 1989 Dick Trickle #84. Cale Yarborough owned Dick Trickle driven Cup car 1990. 2005 Dick Trickle at Oktoberfest.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
November 2013
Well, another Oktoberfest racing weekend at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI, 10/3/13-10/6/13 has come and gone and with this years edition the talk was how track staff was amazingly able to get nearly all the scheduled events in with extremely nasty weather ready to strike at any time.
This years 4 day extravaganza was threatened weather-wise more then most in the last number of years but when all was said and done it was another successful event with great attendance through both participants and fans.
The four days of racing culminate with the Sunday running of the ARCA Midwest Tour 100 lap season finale and this year’s feature finish is still being talked about! Normally when Johnny Sauter decides to race at an event you can expect action, excitement, fireworks and usually some controversy thrown in to boot. There was all of that and then some for this years 100 lap main event. The event early on was not all that memorable but with Johnny Sauter leading and nephew Travis in hot pursuit with very few laps remaining you just knew something was going to happen. And, it did.
Actually with just two laps left in the event a lapped car brought Travis Sauter right up to the bumper of leader Johnny who didn’t seem to anticipate getting by the car on the outside quick enough which allowed Travis to get his nose underneath J. Sauter. J. Sauter moving down to close the hole brought slight contact from Travis but it was enough to send Johnny spinning. Of course rules would dictate at this point both drivers be sent to the rear for the restart but that all came to a crashing halt when Johnny decided after righting his car to race around the entire 5/8 mile oval in hot pursuit of the villain in his eyes, Travis and crash him heading into the number 3 corner. With that incident the race was officially over for both drivers as their cars were too badly damaged to continue. Pro or con, the crowd definitely stated their opinion with a loud roar as the two cars were sitting disabled on the backstretch.
Of course the beneficiary of the whole mess was Nathan Haseleu who for the entire event was no match for the Sauters sitting a ½ lap behind in 3rd position. The 3rd spot in the blink of an eye suddenly became the lead and Haseleu held on to take one of the biggest wins of his career. For Johnny Sauter it was another big time disappointment as family patriarch Jim and his racing sons will have to wait another year to try and win this event which has eluded then since it’s beginning in 1970.
With Haseleu getting the win it was Danny Fredrickson placing 2nd which clinched the ARCA Midwest Tour Championship for the Minnesota driver. Fredrickson was definitely deserving of the honor as he for certain had the fastest car all season long. Filling out the top spots in the 100 lap Feature finale were Chris Wimmer, Griffin McGrath, Eric Darnell, Steve Holzhausen, Tim Sauter, Matt Kocurek, Skylar Holzhausen and Ross Kenseth.
Notes from Fest 2013…Eric Darnell captured the Dick Trickle 99 event on Friday of Fest placing 2nd, 7th and 2nd in the three 33 lap main events. Consistency is normally what wins this race and Darnell parlayed that into the huge win here in the first running of the event since Dick’s passing this past year…For Darnell who has had a taste of success at the top levels of sport in NASCAR is hoping the win again puts him back in the spotlight for future rides at that level…Ty Majeski who is emerging as a fine young talent won the Thursday night NASCAR Late Model feature besting Steve Carlson and J. Herbst. Carlson had already clinched the season points crown as he placed in the top five in every feature race held during the season. He also captured 5 main event wins during the year in dominating the NASCAR division of racing…In looking at the field for the Futures event held on Thursday of Fest some young drivers, the “Future” of the sport could be found pacing the race as Chad Walen, Ryan Hinner, Mike Carlson and Dalton Zehr placed 1-5 in the main. Looking further down the qualifying list we find veteran and even track championship winning drivers like Jim Sauter, Jr., Jamie Wallace, Mike Egan, Jacob Goede, Bryan Roach, Andrew Morrissey, Nick Panitzke among others in the field. Just how do they become eligible for an event that is supposed to showcase the up and coming stars of the sport?...Jake Arneson after years of trying is finally a track champion as he clinched the Sportsman Division crown at Lax with his 4th place finish in the feature event Thursday night…Mark Bornitz had a good night of racing Thursday of Fest taking one of the Hornets Division main events along with the novelty race the Double O which utilizes both the big track and ¼ mile, inner oval…It’s usually pretty exciting racing when Rick Schermerhorn and Randy Humfeld are racing in the same event and the Super sportsman feature brought more of the same from the two on Friday night. This time although there was plenty of contact both racers finished the race 2nd and 3rd to be precise, with Devin Schmidt looking in his mirror at the two on the way to victory…In a rare and almost unheard of decision made by track management the racing action was actually started a ½ hour earlier on Friday then advertised. The decision didn’t seem to affect attendance and proved the right one as all but two non feature qualifying races were held before the rains hit. The Thursday race program was also altered to get the main events in which the track did before the deluge hit…Local racer Dan Gilster made his large fan following from the area happy as he won the Mid-American Series 40 lap feature event. Gilster was followed by Tyler Bauknecht and Brad Keith. Keith’s finish was enough for him to be crowned Mid-Am Champ for 2013…Chris Marek who is carving out a nice racing career won his biggest race to date taking the Big 8 Series 68 lap Feature. Casey Johnson who trailed Dale Nottestad going into the event finished far enough ahead of him to win the Series season championship…Of course with so much going on and numerous things to do during Fest racing weekend, fun was had by nearly all. Much fun in fact included the great turnout of former champions at Champions Reunion V at the track on Sunday. Many drivers who had never attended the reunion were on hand and hopefully we will see more of the same in 2014!
Looking back in time on May 7th, 1971 it was Jim Sauter, Sr., winning the 20 lap opening day Feature at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. in his 1969 Chevelle. 1969 Ford Torino drivers Marv Marzofka and Rich Somers followed. Larry Ravenscoph, Ed Viner and Ardis Nelson were 1,2,3 in the consolation race with heat race wins going to Curt Iverson, Dale Walworth and Marzofka. The fast dash winner was Sauter.
Photos: Jake Arneson #37 was crowned Sportsman season Champ at Lax Fairgrounds in 2013. Mark Bornitz #26 took two feature wins on Thursday of “Fest. The always exciting Johnny Sauter #5. Good fortune for Nate Haseleu #87 in winning 100 lap Fest Finale. Pic from the past is #99 Dick Trickle still short track racing in 1989. This photo after a win at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
October 2013
It was quite the trip down memory lane here August 31st as Amherst Speedway, Amherst, WI., hosted the Milwaukee area stock car group for some exhibition racing on the new 3/8 mile dirt speedway.
Amherst is a new track in Central Wisconsin having held a couple events in 2012. 2013 featured more racing but the season ended early as the search begins to find clay to lay down and make the track suitable for racing. Right now it is not but plans for 2014 are ambitious and hopefully a good clay surface can be created to bring some dirt racing to the area near my home stomping grounds.
Regardless of the track surface it was really cool to see the old time modified and sportsman type cars that raced in the Milwaukee area for so many years in the 1960s and ‘70s put their racing machines through their paces. We didn’t get a chance to see this racing all that much back in the day but when we did it was a pleasure to watch. The Modified cars were unique to say the least in their construction and the names of the drivers were catchy to where you definitely remembered who they were. Some were Miles (The Mouse) Melius who ruled the division for many years, Fuzzy Fassbender, Aaron Solsrud, Neil Sederberg, Billy Johnson, Johnny Reimer, Whitey Harris, Fred Zack, Don Schuppel, Roger Otto, Willie Goedon, Etchie Biertzer, Ken Marquardt, Dick Duston, just to name a few that come to mind. Of course the Sportsman group that raced everywhere with the mods had a following of their own as Frank Smith, Jim Boehles, Jack Aschenbrenner, Mike Klecker, Bernie Binon, Jim Hendricks, Tom Klippel, Charlie Weddle, Jack Brewer and numerous others followed the circuit. These guys much like the paved set in the ‘60s and ‘70s could race 5-6 nights a week! Just a crazy schedule but for those of us who were around then it was the greatest thing!
Some of the few times we could witness the Mod guys in action was when Sam Bartus who was promoting the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., and the Capital Speedway, Oregon, WI., would bring them in to compete against the Late Model guys on the pavement in challenge races. Track records were usually broken when these Late Model vs Mod races occurred and it was an exciting promotion to say the least. The Late Model group would go to great lengths to beat the mods even bringing in extremely wide soft, racing slicks like they did the one time at Golden Sands. The mods in that case were no match as they had very narrow tires on the front of their cars with in most cases treaded, dirt tires on the back! The mod guys didn’t always lose though as I remember Neil Sederberg, John Reimer and Dick St. John getting the best of the LM crew. And that was only fair as Trickle, Back Reffner, etc., shouldn’t always have had their way.
Anyway, it was great to see some of these cars back in action. It sure brought back some great memories.
Here and there…Caught the ARCA Midwest Tour action at Marshfield Motor Speedway here August 31st and witnessed some great feature action. In what looked like a Dan Fredrickson runaway in the 100 lap main turned into a nail biter of a finish as Steve Holzhausen came out of nowhere ( As he has done actually for about 30 years now) to win the main event! Rich Bickle played possum most of the event making his move late and even leading briefly. It was too little too late however and he wound up 2nd at the finish. Skylar Holzhausen took a 6th place car in his words to a podium finish in 3rd, with Jeremy Miller and point leader Fredrickson following…A grand old time was had by all at the CWRA Racing Reunion September 21st in Wis. Rapids, WI., as in my estimation close to 70 drivers from past days of racing were on hand to have fun reminiscing of days gone by. A few track/event promoters were there as well including Sam Bartus, Ace Kasten, Phil Bickley, Ralph Jacobson and Darrell Basseuner. Numerous displays of cars and drivers that competed from the 1950s all the way into the 2000s under the CWRA banner were on hand along with a number of race cars past and present. Old time racing footage was shown throughout the day to give the huge crowd of fans on hand a little taste of what once was. A fun day and with the turnout it looks like the group will have another Reunion in 2014. It’s something you don’t want to miss but if you did a DVD covering the days activities is available through this scribe to purchase…In addition if you missed this reunion you have a chance at another as Champions Reunion V will be held at the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., Sunday October 6th beginning at 11am. This event is part of the Oktoberfest racing weekend October 3-6 at the track and will feature drivers that raced all though the years. Upwards of 50 should be on hand which will offer a great opportunity for fans to get an autograph or snap a photo. Plus while there you can’t miss on all the racing action that will take place over four days…
With Wausau and Wis. Rapids, WI. well represented at the CWRA Reunion we’ll take a look back at some results from tracks in those areas. Jere O’Day won the Feature race at Griffith Park Speedway April 9th, 1967 as the Wisconsin Rapids track opened its season. O’Day piloted a 1946 Chevy to the win over Marv Marzofka, Jim Back and Dick Trickle. The semi-feature went to Bob Hofschild with heat race wins going to Buck Linhart, Orv Buelow and Tom Reffner. Fast time honors went to Jim Back at 14:34 seconds around the ¼ mile oval. 1,200 fans were reported on hand on a cold windy day. Marv Marzofka won the Feature race in the season opening race on Thursday May 6th, 1971 at State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI. Dick Trickle finished 2nd. Heat race winners were Bob Mackesy, Sonny Immerfall and Dick Trickle. Marv Marzofka took fast time honors at 14:81 around the ¼ mile oval and 800 plus fans were on hand to witness the action. At Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., April 25th, 1971 it was Dick Trickle winning the Feature over Marv Marzofka, Ron Beyer, Bill Wirtz and George Thornton. The semi-feature went to Tom Jensen over Denny Clark and Floyd Fairfield. Heat race winners were Bob Mackesy, Tom Jensen and Marv Marzofka. Fast time went to Dick Trickle at 13:24 around the 3/10ths Sands oval.
Photos: #1 that Aaron Solsrud drove to wins and championships back in the day. #5 Kenny Marquardt driven Mod. Support division for the Modifieds, Sportsman cars #6 and #11. Cool CWRA Reunion photos the Famous Chicken Coupe #3 driven by Lyle Nabbefeldt, #57 Chevy driven by well known racer John McNamara. Steve Holzhausen #97 picks up the win in ARCA MT action at Marshfield Motor Speedway.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
August 29th, 2013
We may have touched upon this subject in the past but it’s still a wonder to me that race teams have to pay their way into events to race.
Paying your way in to race happens at all levels of competition including NASCAR. The fees in NASCAR are quite steep but certainly at the Cup level you get that back plus a bunch! I guess this would be considered a professional level of racing so the pay benefit for drivers is better, but what about with all the Touring series on short tracks across the land? There are many drivers that make a living at this level in these events and would be considered professionals, yet they still must pay for entry into the races as well as for pit passes at the show. Did Michael Jordan pay a fee to play basketball games in the NBA? Is Aaron Rogers paying to step onto Lambeau Field to play a game for the Packers? Do any of Major League baseballs’ players pay to get in before they can take the field to play a game? I don’t think so. Yet racers at all levels have to pay to play so to speak. All major sporting events cover costs through attendance. Racetracks strive to do this but often count more on the back gate for their pay-offs to participants. Racers don’t have the luxury of showing up to race and knowing they are going to make a certain amount of money to participate. They must balance what it will cost them to compete with what they can make racing that day in the event based on the advertised pay-off. In actuality, they are largely paying themselves to race! I never quite understood all this but it has been the way since anyone can remember. Speaking of that has anyone ever seen or even heard of an event that paid out purse money counting strictly on fan attendance without charging the participants to compete? I’d like to know if that has ever occurred.
I do know that way back in the 1950s when racing was really starting to get going at the local level here in Wisconsin that drivers paid nothing to race. They showed up to compete and were paid to do so. The pay wasn’t always that good if you didn’t win but there always seemed to at least something if you raced. I know of a track in Sparta, WI., sometime in the 50’s that tried to charge drivers to compete and they promptly boycotted the event and parked on the road outside the track. Promoters decided to waive the fees and racing was held. This however apparently didn’t last very long as soon it was common practice to charge racers pit fees to race. This is the practice to this day and sadly too many facilities count almost solely on the back gate to pay their purse rather than advertising and promoting events to cover those costs. That seems more like club racing than anything where drivers are usually just racing for the fun of it as a hobby. And again, maybe that’s how this is defined. You’re doing it as a profession or just for fun or as a sidelight. At the professional level you can make money at it while at the other levels maybe you can but it isn’t recognized as such.
I don’t know for sure but it has always bothered me that the participants are putting on your show at your track yet they have to pay to get in. Just doesn’t seem like it should be that way as it certainly isn’t in most other sports,
Here and there…A couple events you will want to write down on your calendar as must see are the 1st ever CWRA Reunion on Saturday September 21st and the Champions Reunion on Sunday of Oktoberfest Racing weekend, October 6th. The CWRA gathering will take place at the Grand Rapids, WI., Lions Club, 2411 36th St., which is just outside of Wisconsin Rapids, WI., from 11:00am to 3:30pm. Anyone that was a part of CWRA in any capacity through the years is welcome to attend. The event will include an autograph session with celebrities, showing of slides and racing footage throughout the day along with discussion and tributes to drivers and others that were involved under the CWRA banner. Admission for the event is $2.00 with age 12 and under free with an adult. Food and beverage will also be available. The Champions Reunion will take place at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., in the Hospitality Chalet in turn two of the speedway beginning at 11am. Many drivers will be on hand with the event theme being the honoring of Dick Trickle who passed away in May. The 1970 Ford Mustang that Trickle raced to 47 Feature wins in 1973 will be on display during the reunion and fans will have the opportunity to get up close to the famous race car. Admission is free for those holding a Sunday Oktoberfest ticket…Todd Korish now competing with John Scott power under the hood raced to his 2nd Feature win of the year in the NASCAR Late Model Division at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway August 17th. Korish held off a tight pack of 4 cars for nearly the entire 25 lap main event distance to win over Mike Carlson, Steve Carlson, Mike Koenecke, and Cole Howland…It was J. Herbst racing to his 3rd NASCAR Feature event win of the year at Lax August 24th, holding off Steve Carlson and Shawn Pfaff in the process. The Mid-Am cars were on tonight’s racing card as well with wily veteran Bill Prietzel taking that Series 40 lap Feature win. Fireworks on the night were provided by Rick Tackman and Ryan Gutnecht as they argued over track space in the main. The two got together with Tackman receiving the black consultation flag for the unnecessary contact. Both drivers restarted the event but before things could get rolling Tackman intentionally turned into Gutnecht on the backstretch putting him into the wall. It ended Gutnecht’s night and put Tackman on the trailer for the evening and more than likely longer… Always fun to watch the traveling modified drivers go up against the local contingency in an event that pays good money. That was the case at Mississippi Thunder Speedway, Fountain City, WI., August 16th as traveling star Jason Hughes used a late race pass to win the 40 lap Feature and the $3,000 winners share. Hughes took the checkered flag in front of Rodney Sanders, Stormy Scott, Craig Thatcher, and Lucas Shott…August 23rd at Mississippi Thunder it was Eric Pember taking the Modified Feature event. Eric is from my native neck of the woods, Central Wisconsin, specifically Pittsville, and I’ve known him for quite some time. Good to see him still competing and pick up a main event win here Friday night…When you wreck your car and you’re quite upset and probably say a few things you wouldn’t normally, it’s nice that come end of the race program you are informed you’ve won the 50/50 drawing. Even nicer when it’s over $800 which will definitely put the smile back on your face! That happened to a driver here recently who will remain unnamed so as to keep the tax man away and certainly the money will go a long way in making repairs to the race car…And with this being the last print issue of MRC for the year don’t forget the special events coming up to end the racing season. The ARCA Midwest Tour will next be at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., August 31st where they always put on a great show. And the biggie, Oktoberfest is set to go October 3-6 at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. There are many other season ending events on tap so be sure to support your local tracks as we close out 2013…
In our looking back at racing from years gone by we see it was Dick Trickle winning the Feature event August 19th, 1965 at the Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI. besting a 13 car field. Following Trickle at the checkered flag was Marv Marzofka, Ken Pancratz, Rich Somers, Dave Marcis, Marlin Walbeck, Everett Fox, John McFaul, John McNamara and Lyle Nabbefeldt the top 10. The semi-Feature went to Bob Millis over Homer Spink and Kato Theissen with the consolation race winner John Brevik. Heat race winners were Buck Linhart, Dale Walworth, Bob Millis and John McNamara. Fast time on the evening went to Marv Marzofka at 13:80 seconds which bested a 51 car field on hand for the event.
Photos: Dick Trickle on his way to the win in the World Crown 300 race held at Georgia International Speedway, Jefferson, Ga., November 27th, 1983. The win paid a whopping $50,000! Oktoberfest racing 1984 with Tom Carlson leading Dick Trickle and Tom Reffner…
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
August 14th, 2013
With this being the annual MRC retro issue to the Checkered Flag Racing News which kept us informed for so many years it’s only fitting to cover an event in memory of Dick Trickle who practically filled the paper on numerous occasions with his many racing accomplishments. Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., held the White Knight 99 + 1 Feature event here July 25th in memory of the legend, Dick Trickle who left this earth this past May. A huge crowd was on hand to witness the action and reminisce about the days gone by watching Dick Trickle compete. A field of 33 Super Late Models was also here to compete in paying tribute to the fallen hero. But certainly Dick Trickle would have wanted discussion to pertain to the racing action rather than his passing, and there was plenty of that on this special night.
Looking down at my vehicles odometer upon arriving at the track it read 97. That was how many miles traveled to the speedway and if that wasn’t a premonition of things to come nothing could be as that is the car number used by Steve Holzhausen! After setting fast time on the night Holzhausen proceeded to dominate the Feature which has been the case most of the time this year as he took the main event lead at the halfway point never to be threatened again. Tim Schendel had a strong race car the first half of the event but he was no match for Holzhausen and wound up 2nd. Mark Eswein placed 3rd and was followed by Cardell Potter and Rich Bickle Jr. In victory lane Holzhausen recalled racing with Trickle through the years, as he was one of the few in attendance that did, and becoming good friends. He also recalled Trickle who was known for much late night carousing would approach each days racing. “For 100 laps of racing you need 1 hour of sleep. So if we race in a 300 lapper you need 3 hours.” Holzhausen on the night raced like he had plenty of sleep and in typical Trickle fashion came from deep in the field to win. It really was a fitting way to end the night as mentioned earlier, Holzhausen was one of the few to have gone head to head with Trickle back in his heyday of racing in the 1970s and ‘80s. And, after we arrived back from the Marshfield track, taking a slightly different way home we noted the odometer read 199 miles. #97 wins on The White Knight’s #99 memorial evening of racing. Now how fitting is that.
Here and there…Another Trickle-ism…”A rainout just means we start partying earlier.” With rain coming down heavily at Marshfield Motor Speedway Thursday night many thought the local watering hole would see folks arriving early from the race track. The rain quit, rapid drying took place and actually things got started on time and ran smoothly the rest of the night for the White Knight 99 + 1. Folks just had to wait a little longer for the celebration later…As part of the White Knight 99 + 1 the track offered discounted adult admission at just $4.99 for the night. Pabst and Coors Light beers were just $.99 on the night. Trickle was of course known for his beer sponsorship the aforementioned being to that backed his efforts… Brad Powell picked up his 3rd Feature win of the year in NASCAR Late Models July 27th at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. If not for a wreck early in the year which forced him to miss two events Powell could easily be challenging Carlson for the track championship…To say he was overdue would definitely be an understatement as Todd Korish finally found himself in victory lane after winning a Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway August 3rd. Korish although the defending NASCAR Late Model track champion hadn’t won a main event there since May 28th 2011. That streak is now over as Korish captured the 25 lap top billed race…And speaking of overdue, Shawn Pfaff broke his NASCAR Late Model Feature drought with a win August 10th at Lax. In a wreck marred main event Pfaff held off Steve Carlson for the win…With all the wrecks it gave drivers you don’t normally see in the top ten get a finish there as Adam Moore, Albert Locy and Jonathan Eckleberg were 8th, 9th and 10th, career bests for the trio…Talk about being on a roll. Travis Sauter did it again winning the Feature event at Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI., July 29th. For Sauter, that was his 9th consecutive win at the track. Yes, you read that correctly…Of course a major reason we have put on Racing Reunions in the area through the years is to honor and appreciate those that were involved in the sport the last 50 years. And, none of us will live forever. Case in point here recently as long time race driver Pete Mahlum passed away on July 27th. Pete’s history goes back to the old North La Crosse Speed bowl while he also raced at nearly all the Central and Western Wisconsin tracks as well as specials in Minnesota. Pete was 72 at the time of his passing. Mark Zielke another individual involved in the sport dating back to the 1960s also passed away July 28th. Mark owned cars and helped numerous drivers through the years including John Scott and Les Katzner. Mark was 73…Speaking of retro, it was Dick Trickle winning the Mid-Summer Championships 40 lap Feature at the Dells Motor Speedway on July 23rd, 1964. Lyle Nabbefeldt and Marv Marzofka placed 2nd and 3rd.
Photos: Steve Holzhausen wins the White Knight 99 + 1 at Marshfield Motor Speedway. Dick Trickle the White Knight at the Milwaukee Mile in 1981. Note long time crew members Vic Getzloff, L and Jim Bohmsach in background. Of course Dick Trickle under the hood making last second adjustments. Accompanying column by this scribe from Checkered Flag Racing News, August 8th, 1979
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
July 31st 2013
It was off to the homeland of Central Wisconsin here recently to catch some racing action at our preferred track for many years, Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI.
The 1/3 mile high banked paved oval has always held a special place for this scribe as it is one of the first tracks I attended events regularly at way back when. It also holds the distinction of being one of the most historic venues as it was the beginning of high speed racing on a high banked surface as compared to the relatively flat tracks that existed prior to its construction. First opened in 1967 by Sam Bartus the track has seen numerous operators through the years with the Basseuner family holding court since 1994. There is still that aura about the place as well, as tight, exciting racing is the norm rather than exception. The action here on July 12th was no exception as the boys and girls were pretty feisty on the night.
Feisty might be kind in this case as both boys and girls didn’t seem to want to share the power playground creating numerous fender benders and skirmishes. When the dust and smoke had cleared however, it was Jim Sauter Jr., outmaneuvering one and all to take the night’s headlining race, the 40 lap Super Late Model Feature event. Sauter’s mid-feature field start gave him a bit of an advantage as he grabbed the lead before half the race was even completed. While nearly everyone else bumped and ground their way to the front, Sauter extended his lead and cruised to a relatively easy win. Following Sauter Jr., after 40 laps were Mike Egan who got through everything unscathed, Eugene Gregorich Jr., who had a very altered hood and fenders from an early crash, Frank Nitzke who went over Gregorich Jr’s hood, suffering substantial damage in the same crash, Troy Nelson, Tim Hintz, M.G. Gajewski, Amanda Ferguson, Steve Litchfield and Dave Neitzke.
The Pure stock main event featured much in the same type of “crazy racing “ action as winner Richard Dunn was booted out of the way as the checkered flag waved but still crossed the finish line first! Super stocks, 4 cylinder machines and the cruiser divisions also provided more than their fair share of excitement but all survived the night and will certainly be back for more at the next scheduled program.
All in all it was great to be back at the home track stomping grounds and with a little luck we’ll be back for more yet this year.
GS notes and quotes…”Girls just want to have fun” Yes, that is a line from a popular song in the ‘80s but did it apply to Super Late Model competitors Amanda Ferguson and Paige Decker who were racing for 2nd position in the Feature? For a while anyway, until they made contact causing a caution flag which relegated both to a back of the field restart position when the race resumed. Neither finished where they were before the contact so at that point fun more than likely took on a new meaning…Tim Hintz had a solid 6th place run in the Super Late Feature after leading a number of laps. The finish was note worthy in that Hintz is racing with a lower cost Crate Engine against the more open and higher dollar engine group…When is it best to settle for the position you are in rather than go for the gusto and the checkered flag? When that/those positions get you into the main event as opposed to in the trailer the rest of the night. Two drivers, and they shall remain nameless, were in those positions in the B Main, far ahead of the field no less, when they tangled with just a few laps left taking both out of contention for a Feature start. Who says it’s about the money. The cloth checkers are far more important…Matt Pyburn was involved in a mishap that prevented him from making the Super Late Feature but it certainly helped Gregorich Jr., get his 3rd place finish. With the Gregorich Jr., front end a mess after an early race wreck, Pyburn who was standing by used surgical precision in sticking it back together utilizing many feet of duct tape that held the car together for the rest of the event…Speaking of Pyburn, much of the machine he is racing consists of the old Keith Witt Sportsman car built back in 1992! According to Pyburn, “Even being that old you can still make them go.”
Here and there…Have seen my share of fireworks displays at race tracks this year and all have been very good. It’s not that long ago most presentations at local speedways were pretty weak and too short. I know these displays cost a substantial amount of money but increased attendance was the case at the tracks I witnessed them at this year…Made another trip to the Mississippi Thunder Speedway of Fountain city, WI. here recently and witnessed Lucas Shott win the Modified A main. The name Schott was appro as Lucas looked like he was shot out of a cannon after a restart taking the lead from a startled Josh Angst and cruising to the win. Angst wound up 2nd with Eric Pember 3rd. The B mods were actually the featured attraction on the night with Cory Crapser taking a $1,000 victory in their Feature event…40 laps of NASCAR Late Model racing were on tap for the night at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., July 20th and it was J. Herbst and Mike Koenecke taking wins in the two 20 lap mains. Other feature winners included Jimmy Gilster in Sportsman action, his first of the year and David Cavin in the Thunderstoxs…And in the unbelievable but true department an ordinance is being considered in the community of Deer Trail, CO., to allow the hunting of Drones. Yes, those drones, do you know of any other? The Federal Aviation Administration has warned those attempting this may be prosecuted. Well DUH! I don’t like the big brother is watching you scenario created by these drones spying on us, but passing an ordinance allowing them to be shot down? This is America folks, that’s kind of a bizarre and downright dangerous way to protest something…
Looking back on Sunday afternoon, May 5th, 1968 it was Dick Trickle taking the 25 lap Feature win at Golden Sands Speedway. Following Trickle were Jim Back and Marlin Walbeck. The 20 lap Semi-Feature on the night went to Dick Schultz followed by Dave Marcis and John Wehrenberg. The consolation race went to Dick Ames followed by Dick Walkush and Louis Hojnacki. Heat race victors were Ray Hoffman, Ray Knutson, Dave Marcis and Marv Marzofka. Fast qualifying honors on the day went to Marlin Walbeck at 14:02 seconds. Found some cool info I had compiled pertaining to late Model Feature winners at Golden Sands Speedway from 1967 thru 1983. Dick Trickle headed the list with 68 followed by Tom Reffner at 50, Jim Back 25, Marv Marzofka 23, and Mike Miller rounding out the top five with 22. Mark Martin even won a feature at the track during that time period.
Photos: Jim Sauter Jr., winner of the 40 lap Super Late Model Feature July 12th at Golden Sands Speedway. Richard Dunn had the dubious distinction of being the only driver to win a race going sideways. He did it in the Pure Stock Feature July 12th . Unbeknownst to most Dick Trickle raced and won with this car in 1976, a Chevy Nova owned by Jim Bohmsach. Bohmsach also raced the car.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
July 17 2013
We had a chance over the 4th of July Holiday week to take in our first TUNDRA Super Late Model program as it occurred at the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., July 3rd.
A nice field of 32 timed in for the event with Nick Panitzke out qualifying the field for top honors at 19:042 around the big 5/8 mile paved track. The TUNDRA group gives plenty of opportunities for drivers to both make and improve starting position in the feature field as a dash, gong show race and last chance event are held to qualify your way in. And, if you still don’t make it a non-qualifiers race is held.
Frank Kreyer who is the brain trust behind the series along with Tom Litchfield looked like he was ready to knock the wall down in qualifying before making the needed changes to his car in time to roar to a convincing win in the 40 lap Feature. A front row starting spot definitely helped as he was able to hold off late race charges by Eugene Gregorich Jr., and Panitzke. Maxwell Schultz, Billy Mohn, Bryan Roach, Paige Decker, Nick Murgic, Matt Pyburn and Series point leader Dalton Zehr rounded out the top ten finishers. The outcome of the race may have been different if not for Panitzke and Zehr who were heading straight to the front getting together and having to restart at the rear of the field. Panitzke’s car was on rails and he flew through the field before running out of laps while Zehr motored by a number of cars on his way to a top 10.
All in all, a very entertaining evening of racing at La Crosse as fans were treated to Super Late Model racing in mid-summer instead of in their annual visit only during Oktoberfest.
TUNDRA Series Race notes…After the donut burnout Kreyer did on the front stretch after his $1,000 win we can only speculate what he might have done if the race paid $5,000! Gregorich Jr., is happy with the performance of his Bac-Kar Chassis as he has moved into the top 5 in points in the TUNDRA Series and has also won main events at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI and Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI. The car reportedly has a center section built back in 1992! Tweaking of the front and rear clips has made the car fast in 2013…Tom Litchfield started the evening off racing at Lax but wasn’t comfortable with the track and let his son Mike take over. Mike proceeded to take dad’s car to the win in the Non-Qualifier race… Frank Nitzke is racing the entire Tundra Series this year but had engine problems at Lax. He got his car in the Feature field as a provisional starter but the engine ultimately quit ending his day early…If one were to draw comparisons the TUNDRA Series is similar to the Wisconsin Challenge Series which held events for a number of years. It’s a Series that is more affordable to run as teams are limited in the number of new tires they can compete with at each event. Entry fees/race are less while Feature race lengths are shorter which makes for less wear and tear and additional affordability…Here and there…La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway Sportsman and Thunderstox divisions of racing were also on the card with the TUNDRA Series and it was Jamie Dummer and Dakota Miller taking main event wins respectively. Adam Moore raced to the win in the total darkness race as all the track lights were shut off. Drivers are allowed to provide their own lighting and some get pretty creative with how they illuminate the night to compete! Holzhausens continue to dominate in Super Late Model competition at Marshfield Motor Speedway as papa Steve took both the 75 lap Yellow River Series Feature and the regular 35 lap main event held on the night of July 13th…Collin Reffner debuted his new Reffner Chassis machine by setting fast time in the Super Lates at Marshfield. Three generations of Reffner put the car together including Father Tom, sons Baird and Bryan and Baird’s son Colin who is the lucky one that gets to steer it…Steve Carlson continues to roll at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway as he took his 4th NASCAR Late Model Feature win at the track July 13th…
Looking back on July 25th, 1963 at the Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI, it was Dick Trickle #91 winning the Feature. On May 13th, 1971 Trickle won the 20 lap Feature at State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI.
Photos: Frank Kreyer #99 wins the Tundra Super Late Model race July 3rd at
La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Old still goes as this Eugene Gregorich Jr. Bac-Kar race car is fast with a center section built back in 1992. Dick Trickle arrives just in time to qualify in June of 1973 in his Mustang at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI. He would go on to win the “Red Race” Feature on the day at the track.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
July 3rd 2013
With flash flood type rain falling at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway after just a few events and wet conditions nearly everywhere this past weekend we decided to take in a different kind of competition where a substantial amount of water is not a detriment but a downright necessity!
It was the Bassmasters Elite Division tournament group appearing in La Crosse Wisconsin for the Mississippi River Rumble event with 99 fisherman in the field trying to capture the top prize of $100,000. Numerous comparisons can be made with these fishing tournaments and short track racing. One is the stout field of entrants all able to catch fish and win. It’s not all that unlike a Special event for short track racers as the difference between winning and losing is either scant inches or 1,000s of a second, or a few precious ounces in weight. Termed Elite Division, that is no small boast as these fisherman are equipped to handle any condition with top notch State Of The Art equipment. $50,000 boats, hauling equipment top of the line and 20 or more fishing poles priced in the thousands of dollars range put a lot of pressure on these folks to win or at least finish in the money as the investment here is obviously huge! Again, not unlike our premier divisions of short track racing and series’ where good equipment is not just a help but a necessity if you have any hopes of placing in the money.
And where does that money come from? Sponsorship of course. The fisherman have everything decked out in their sponsors colors from their haulers, trailers, boats, uniforms, hats, down to everything used to catch fish! Pretty much like our racers who paint or wrap generally being the case, a pretty picture with everything racing related labeled in their backers livery at all events they participate in.
Sadly, the ratio of pay is similar to racing as well with pay-offs very top heavy with little hope for breaking even unless you finish at or near the top. But, as in racing points at each event are tabulated and there are pay-offs at the end of the year which can greatly help in following the Tournament trail. And, just like in racing there is much in the way of bonus money available via the product contingency route.
And one must be very careful to follow the rules and proper protocol at said events as if you don’t, a DQ may be just around the corner. That was the case for reasonably new to the Elite Series Brandon Palaniuk, who was racking up huge weight numbers in the Mississippi River Rumble, making a shambles of the field the first two days in the process. But wait a minute. A culling of fish infraction in Minnesota water, (In Minnesota Culling is illegal, while Wisconsin allows it.) forced Palaniuk to forfeit his catch for day two which eliminated him from making the top 50 finalists which in turn eliminated him from further competition. Unknowingly fishing 100 yards into and culling one fish in Minnesota water on the mighty Mississippi cost the 26 year old from Idaho a chance at a $100,000 pay day which would have by far, been his biggest to date. But in another parable to racing you know the rules going in. Maybe you didn’t intentionally break the car ride height rule, or have the wrong shocks on, or have an internal engine component that doesn’t meet spec. If you fail tech you are disqualified. If you are performing a task in water you aren’t supposed to be you get sent home. No one wants to be the heavy and make these rules decisions but unfortunately if we didn’t have rules in competitions it would be utter chaos.
With the Palaniuk DQ Aaron Martens and Tommy Biffle battled it out the last two days for the Tournament win with Biffle bagging just a scant 2 ¾ more weight to take home the Hundred Grand.
All in all, an interesting departure from our norm of weekend race chasing but not all that unlike our favorite pastime.
Here and there…For those wondering, the culling of fish is basically swapping out smaller fish for larger ones as fisherman in these tournaments shoot for the largest amount of weight with a limit of 5 fish/day. With live wells on the boats keeping the fish alive it’s a common practice in these competitions…Where legal…”The car would go wherever I wanted it to.” Those were the words of Skylar Holzhausen and he parlayed a near perfect car into a victory in the ARCA Midwest Tour 100 lap feature here June 29th at the Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI. A battle that got pretty intense early on between Holzhausen and Dan Fredrickson was ended rather quickly on a mid-race restart as leader Fredrickson gave way to Holzhausen never to challenge again. Holzhausen coasted to a 10 car length win with Fredrickson who has been tough to beat of late in Tour competition placing 2nd. The balance of the top 10 finishers were Rich Bickle, Jr., Chris Wimmer, Jonathan Eilen, Nick Murgic, Steve Holzhausen, Jason Weinkaif, Andrew Morrissey and Chris Weinkauf. Bickle’s finish was noteworthy as he started well back in the field before making a charge late to place 3rd. If Bickle ever finds a way to qualify better and get a better starting position he may very well find himself in victory lane…Cole Howland continues to impress at the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., as he picked off another NASCAR Late Model win this past Saturday night. Howland held off a couple veterans Steve Carlson and Brad Powell to take the win. With the win, Howland has now moved up to 3rd in the season long points battle with Carlson in the number one spot followed by J. Herbst…Brian Hesselberg found some bent pieces on his Sportsman race car and once remedying that problem has been very competitive. With new found speed Hesselberg went on to win the Sportsman Feature event here this past Saturday at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway…
Looking back on September 8th, 1967 it was Dick Trickle winning the 100 lap Feature at the Capital Speedway of Oregon, WI., in his 1966 Mercury Comet. Ron Beyer placed 2nd followed by Ken Pancratz.
Photos: Skylar Holzhausen put a whipping on the field in the ARCAMT race at Marshfield Motor Speedway. Another consistent run for Rich Bickle in ARCA MT action. Can a win be far away? 1974 Dick Trickle Ford Mustang equipped with 351 CI Bud Moore built engines. The power plants didn’t hold up during the year and Trickle suffered through numerous failures as a result. 1975 Trickle Mustang. Trickle raced this car to 12 Feature wins in 1975 which included several on dirt tracks!
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
June 19 2013
It was good to see the ARCA Midwest Tour back at the Dells Raceway Park of Wisconsin Dells, WI here June 8th and an excellent show it turned out to be.
Danny Fredrickson made it two in a row in ARCA MT competition as he took the win in the 100 lap Feature finale. In the process, Fredrickson did what no one has been able to do in awhile, and that is to beat Travis Sauter. Sauter wound up 24th in the main but that was only because he suffered mechanical issues near the end of the race. The gremlins cropped up at the worst possible time for Sauter as he was again leading and appeared to be well on his way to another victory. As it turned out Fredrickson had to pass Chris Wimmer late in the race securing a lead he did not relinquish. Wimmer in a strong run settled for 2nd and was followed by Nate Haseleu, Jeremy Miller, Ross Kenseth, Andrew Morrissey, Skylar Holzhausen, Jason Weinkauf, Chris Weinkauf and Dennis Prunty.
For awhile during the evening it didn’t look like many in the field would even start the 100 lap Feature as most were really mixing it up in the Dash event. The finish of the dash determines starting position in ARCA MT mains and with the Dells always a tough place to pass they were doing everything in their power to get to the front! With some bent fenders and plenty of tire rub marks, all answered the bell for the Feature.
Of the 26 car field on hand Chris Eggleston got the long haul award as he came all the way from Thornton, CO., to compete. According to Eggleston there really is only one place they can race in that State which is Colorado National Speedway of Erie. Consequently the team decided to try their luck in a Tour race in Wisconsin. “The cars we race out there are quite old and heavy so we wanted to be able to take some weight off to compete like you can in this Series and see what the car would do. Eggleston had bad luck early breaking a pan hard bar, but his team got the car fixed in time to race where Eggleston wound up 22nd at the finish.
Travis Sauter was confident as usual going into the race but admitted it wouldn’t be easy. “The fastest car doesn’t always win at this track, you need some luck too. On the half miles it’s a little easier, but these guys are tough.” As it turns out Sauter’s luck did run out allowing Fredrickson to get the win.
Speaking of Fredrickson he knew Sauter would be tough going into the race. “He’s really got it going right now. If we weren’t so busy and had more time to work on the car I think we could be really fast.” Really fast? Wonder how much faster Danny boy will be!
Here and there…Dennis Prunty finally had a top 10 finish here at the Dells after failing to finish all the prior ARCA Midwest Tour Features. “If only I could have timed in better. The car was great in the qualifier, (Which he easily won) but we had to start so far back in the Feature and it’s tough to pass here.” Maybe this is a turning point for Prunty who is currently 3rd in the Rookie of the Year chase points…Jason Weinkauf has struggled on the Tour so the team decided to totally change the set up of his racer. They appeared to be heading in the right direction at the Dells qualifying in the top 12 and going on to finish 8th in the 100 lapper…Ross Kenseth who has Mauston, WI., native Kelly Bires heading up his racing effort was way off in qualifying relegating the team to a rear of the field starting spot in the main. Hardly passing a car through the entire Feature, Kenseth nonetheless stayed out of trouble resulting in a top 5 finish…When is 2nd place 1st? At the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway Saturday, June 8th as Brent Kirchner crossed the finish line 1st after 25 laps of NASCAR Late Model racing only to be DQ’d for a ride height violation. That allowed 2nd place finisher Steve Carlson to inherit the win with Kirchner being given 22nd spot in the field. J. Herbst who was earlier nailed for a ride height violation fixed the problem and came back to finish 2nd. With the spring, shock and big bar packages these teams utilize and the fact that fractions of an inch can really make a difference it’s easy to see why these violations occur. If you cut it too close, you might not get through tech! Had a chance to check out the Wayne Lensing owned Dells Raceway Park grandstand area and was really impressed. The place has really been spiffed up and is modern and top notch through and through. Really liked the souvenir area which featured photos of the originally constructed Dells track as well as classic photos of drivers that raced there back in the day… A huge crowd was on hand for the ARCA Midwest Tour event at Dells as finally, although a bit threatening early, we had some great for racing weather…Caught the action at Mississippi Thunder Speedway, Fountain City, WI., this past Friday and left quite impressed. A fast paced show with plenty of three and even four wide racing in all divisions made for a fun night of racing. Josh Angst used lapped traffic to move around race long leader Dan Bohr to take the win in the headlining A Modified Feature…The Street Stock Feature finish at MTS had the large crowd on hand buzzing as leader Danny Hanson was taken out on the last corner of the last lap by Danny Richards. Richards was promptly black flagged and although Doug Wojcik missed all the carnage and crossed the finish line first the final order at the stripe was determined by going back to the previous lap which put Hanson first…
Looking back on May 25th, 1967 it was Dick Trickle taking the first ever Feature race win at the new Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI.
Photos: Danny Fredrickson makes it two in a row in ARCA Midwest Tour competition. Brent Kirchner finishes 1st but ends up last. Dick Trickle takes a win in his Ford at the all new Golden Sands Speedway. Trickle, Golden Sands action. Bob Bergeron photo.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
June 5th, 2013
You don’t have to be an open wheel type race car fan to have appreciated the Indy 500 Memorial Day weekend.
The race this year looked more like a typical NASCAR Talledega Super Speedway event with numerous passes for the lead taking place each lap. Records were set for the most drivers pacing the field as well as the most lead changes during the race. A new average speed record for 500 miles was set as well.
Having grown up watching for the most part the pavement stock car guys I none the less would almost always catch the Indy 500, listening to it on the radio or watching on TV. The race is truly a spectacle in more ways than one, but certainly it is the most tradition rich racing event in the US. A lot of the drama and suspense had gone away from the event when owners, drivers and sanctioning groups weren’t seeing eye to eye, but in recent years most differences have been resolved and the concentration is back on good quality racing. The quality of racing in this year’s 500 was second to none and was really entertaining. The only thing that may have been better in this year’s race was if it had finished under green flag conditions. If it had there may have been 6 or more drivers battling for the win with just a few laps left. As it turned out the race did end under yellow but not too many folks were displeased with that result as Tony Kaanan who has tried to win this race for many years was the happy recipient of the yellow flag having taken the lead just moments before it was waved. His win was popular in the same way Dale Earnhardt Sr’s. was after winning the Daytona 500 in his 20th try and that just made for a good feeling for everyone.
In our observance the Indy type cars look better than they ever have and more American drivers are involved which is a big plus.. I still believe their involvement in this type of racing is key to increased fan following as people in the States want to follow someone from where they live. Nothing against the foreigners, they have plenty of talent, but there is something to be said for the driver from here “Doing good”.
Marketing wise it looks like Indy car is getting with the program as well as the race cars were very creatively dressed out with easy to identify sponsorship. All in all, it looks like this type of racing is well on the way back to reaching the popularity it enjoyed years ago and that can only be good for American racing.
Here and there…Brad Powell showed he put all the pieces of his race car that was wrecked a month or so ago back in the right place as he dominated NASCAR Late Model Feature action at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway here June 1. Powell got out front halfway through the 25 lap main and cruised to the win. Steve Carlson who is rapidly expanding his season point’s lead took second with Mike Koeneke, Brent Kirchner, J. Herbst, Todd Korish, Adam Degenhardt, Mike Carlson, Jerimy Wagner and Cole Howland following… Matt Inglett is taking a shot at NASCAR Late Model racing after moving through the La Crosse Fairgrounds divisional ranks. He’s going through the normal growing pains but is having fun doing it. “Racing a Late Model is like night and day compared to Sportsman, it sure is fun though. Right now I have probably just a mediocre set up in the car but once I get used to it I’m going to change springs and the stabilizer bar and see what we can do.” Inglett finished 16th in the June 1st Feature…With so few Outlawz cars competing Lax Fairgrounds had a “run what ya brung” race which featured Thunderstox, Sportsman type and NASCAR Late Model cars. Jerrod Loging in his Sportsman took that win…You wanna race get out and dry the track! With a shower moving through the area it was touch and go for getting the June 1 show in at Lax Fairgrounds with track drying efforts slow at best. The ones best equipped to do it, the Late Model group, are always the last, if they go out at all to help it seems. J. Herbst was the first of that group to help with the effort making 5-10 laps before the rest of the bunch finally decided they better too…Interesting to note that La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway is allowing NASCAR Late Model drivers to come out multiple times to qualify. It reminds me a bit of the old days when drivers had no limitations as to how many time trial laps they could take. It was kind of neat as one driver would come out and set fast time which prompted another fast on the day to try and better it. This could go on for 45 minutes and sometimes track records would be set. Of course with two minutes left in qualifying Dick Trickle would pull in and set the fast time standard nullifying everyone’s gallant efforts! From feast to famine. That could describe the two week period racing at La Crosse Fairgrounds for Ty Majeski. After winning the NASCAR Late Model Feature there May 18th, Majeski didn’t even get a chance to compete in the May 25th one smacking the wall in hot laps prior to time trials which ended his night… We failed to mention the stellar run by Jeff Storm in the 125 lap Feature in the ARCA Midwest Tour event at State Park Speedway here a couple weeks ago. After nearly going a lap down, Storm who has been a loyal follower of the Tour hung in there and placed a well deserved 4th at the finish…To further verify the sluggish start to spring and summer during the ARCA Tour race at State Park we spotted snow on Rib Mountain which rises above State Park Speedway to the South. Supposedly a contest in the area is ongoing to determine when the snow disappears. I’ll go with June 7th for no particular reason. Can someone tell me if I won? Next up for the ARCA Tour is a return to Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., for an event June 8th…
Still working on my Glacial cooling theory book as temps are way below normal and rain just keeps on coming. When done hopefully I can sell enough to finance my racing escapades. And about Al Gore…
Looking back on August 19th, 1961 it was Dick Trickle winning the Feature at the Black River Falls Speedway of Black River Falls, WI. Trickle beat Morrie Piotrowski, Vic Kopacz, Jere O’Day and Jack Smith for the win…”It’s like jet fighters in a gymnasium” That was Dick Trickle one year describing the racing at the Anderson, IN., Speedway…
Photos: The “Hot Dog” sponsored by the Burger family, A&W in 1973. Dick Trickle won 47 Features racing a Ford Mustang during the year. Jerrod Loging the Sportsmen Feature victor May 25th at La Crosse Fairgrounds. #23 Brad Powell showed the way in the June 1st Lax Fairgrounds Feature...
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
May 22nd 2013
He said more than once, aren’t you supposed to be dead if you are a legend? Sadly that is now true for short track racing legend Dick Trickle as he took his own life here May 16th.
The why here and now of the story may never be completely known although talk has centered around some major health issues, but one thing is certain, that the sport of auto racing has lost one of the best drivers ever to get behind the wheel of a stock car.
I don’t think there’s much to dispute here on that count, especially for Trickle in his competing on the short tracks of America. Having won by some counts over 1,000 Feature events and countless other preliminary races it was no idle boast that Trickle was known for years as the winningest driver in America.
Rather than dwell on the negative of his passing and how it happened I’d like to accentuate the positive by highlighting some of the great memories of his racing career. Having seen much of it first hand I am thankful I lived and followed the sport during it’s heyday in the 1970s and ‘80s. Dick Trickle was perhaps the biggest figure during that time chalking up wins and records that could forever remain unsurpassed.
Something that I always enjoyed was the dramatics Trickle employed especially in earlier years of racing. Highly expectant fans heading to the track to see Trickle compete often times began to worry as time was slipping away for Dick to get to the track and qualify. Lo and behold more often than not Trickle would show up with just minutes left in time trials fly through the pit entrance sometimes with his car running on his hauler, get unloaded and head right for the racetrack. Much to the chagrin of the guy sitting on fast time up to that point Trickle, the last car on the track would circle whatever oval it was and steal fast time away at the very last second. Often times he’d do it and set a track record in the process! I remember one time at the Wisconsin International Raceway of Kaukauna, WI., Trickle had so much momentum heading out of the 4th corner that he smacked the wall bouncing off it in a shower of sparks and concrete. The unbelievable thing about it was he set fast time on that lap with, you guessed it a new track record! Trickle liked to downplay the fact he was creating high drama attributing it to just another day at the racetrack. He also believed it was better to prepare the car fully back at the shop in a controlled environment rather than try to flog on it in a dirty, uneven pit area. Consequently even though he was late in most people’s eyes he was right on schedule in his own. And of course who could forget the roar from the crowd as he pulled off another one of his masterful, record breaking fetes. I remember it well and it happened often.
Of course we could go on and on about such fetes but I’d like to clear the air on why Dick didn’t venture south to compete in the big leagues earlier in his career like many thought he should. If you were getting paid deal money at most of the venues you competed at and more often than not were winning the races which in many cases paid very well would you leave for something that paid less and was much less supportive of your racing ways? You have to remember that NASCAR was not the corporate marketing machine that made nearly instant millionaires of its competitors back then. When Trickle was racing in the 1960s, ‘70s, ‘80s and even into the ‘90s, he was making much more money than he could make in NASCAR at the time and with a lot less hassle. Furthermore I really believe Dick liked the outlaw, king of the hill image he had. Better to be a big fish in a smaller pond with financial security than a not easily accepted Northerner playing in a southern mans sandbox. As it turned out even at the late age of 48 winning the NASCAR Cup Rookie of the Year award, I think Trickle did OK the time he raced in the south.
Great memories, that’s what we have of the racing done by Dick Trickle against his many tough competitors back in the day. It’s a shame he’s gone now as heroes of the sport aren’t supposed to die this way. Even Dick thought his last day on earth would be at some race track somewhere the victim of a tragic accident. It didn’t happen that way and I guess the consolation here is he did live a full life. Regardless, he will be greatly missed.
With so many other memories which would take up a seasons worth of issues of MRC what we’ll do here is try and focus on a “Trickle happening” or event or two in our columns through the rest of the year. It’s the least we can do to remember America’s winningest driver.
Here and there…From all perspectives it was a successful evening at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI May 18th as a great fan following, and a full pit area made for a nice evening of racing. The ARCA Midwest Tour was the featured attraction on the night and it was Danny Fredrickson taking the 125 lap main event win. Danny won the Tour event here last year but in talking to him earlier in the evening you wouldn’t have thought it was going to be a good night. ‘’I’m running around here at half throttle, I guess at least we’re saving gas.” Which is kind of how the ¼ mile paved State Park track is, when it feels like you’re going slow, you’re probably running a good lap! It worked for Danny as after setting fast time he had the lead within 30 laps and pretty much cruised to the win…Looks like the future of paved racing is beginning to appear as some familiar names were competing in the Bandolero Division at State Park. The names Kraus, Vandergeest and Gregorich were in the field with the Kraus sibling getting a Feature win. Rivalries are starting as we speak…Kirby Kurth was honoring the late Dick Trickle by racing his purple # 99 Hornet car at State Park on the night. The plum crazy purple car which was Trickle’s chosen color for a number of years saw the checkered flag first on the night much to the appreciation of the crowd on hand…Interesting to note the ARCA Midwest Tour number draw to determine qualifying order at State Park was #98. That meant the #99, Dick Trickle’s famous number would be first out to qualify on the night. #99 happened to be Tim Sauter and of course Trickles and Sauters had many famous battles on the speedway through the years…Really cool to see James Swan who is racing the ARCA Midwest Tour this year competing with a paint scheme honoring the late Pat Schauer. Schauer was tragically killed in an accident at the Winchester, IN., Speedway while racing in an ASA sanctioned event quite some time ago. Have a look at Swan’s car if you get a chance, many of Schauer’s race cars adorn the Swan machine and it really is a great tribute to a young budding star that left us way too soon…Ty Majeski who is proving to be a quick study picked up the NASCAR Late Model Feature win at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway here Saturday night May 18th. Majeski in short order will be doing more racing in the Eastern part of the State which means he’ll miss events here and right now that is probably OK with fellow competitors at LAX…
Looking back on July 7th, 1961 it was Dick Trickle from Rudolph, WI., winning the Feature at Adams Friendship Speedway. Jere O’Day, Vic Kopacz, Marlin Walbeck and Dean Spohn followed Trickle across the line.
Photos: Going way back a 1958 Ford campaigned by Dick Trickle. In 1971 Dick Trickle won 56 Feature events driving this Ford Torino. He won 67, a record more than likely never to be broken in this 1970 Mustang in 1972. Trickle attracted beer sponsors as this photo shows in 1985. Kirby Kurth honors Dick Trickle in his purple #99 car.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
May 8th 2013
It seems with each passing year fields in the asphalt Late Model ranks continue to dwindle. The reasons are many, and most of it is cost related but when you look at some other forms of racing and what they are spending I guess we aren’t exactly terrible in that regard!
With weather interfering in a big way as far as race attendance we’ve taken the time to look at a few periodicals out there and that is how we’ve made some of these interesting costs in racing discoveries. We always find it quite easy to point at NASCAR for excessive expense and we’ll again do a little of that here. Such as in the issue of start and park race teams in the major divisions of NASCAR. It would appear the percentage of such teams is on the increase. Costs to compete in an entire race for many are too high considering the payback for all the extra wear and tear on race equipment. Consequently teams will qualify for a race and pull in after just a few laps with some phantom problem. They collect the start money and go on their merry way. The fact that barely the minimum of cars show up for the spots available in the race allows this to take place. NASCAR doesn’t like it but the teams keep showing up creating a full field at least so it’s hard to knock the strategy. At one time teams not knowing for certain they would qualify for a race wouldn’t even have a crew on hand for pit stops! Morgan Shepherd had that happen and literally stopped in his pit stall, got out of his racing machine and began servicing it. That needless to say was pretty embarrassing for NASCAR and they eliminated it by requiring a crew to be on site race day. Again if the cost to compete wasn’t so high would we be seeing this? As tough as it is to break into the big leagues it’s hard to tell. After all one man’s dropping out is another’s potential opportunity. If sponsorship value was there companies would keep pumping money into the sport and allow teams to compete. The value obviously isn’t there, at least not like it was in recent times and that’s why you see companies picking less than a full season of events to put their name on the race vehicle. And, with wraps making it easy to change colors or flavors for companies at every event if so desired, we’re seeing more and more partial sponsorship.
If you really want a great example of insane costs in racing you need look no further than Formula 1. If you want to compete in Formula 1 and that’s a big if as only teams that guarantee they will be at all events, paying for that chance up front get invited. Next it will cost you over 2.5 million for a racecar. Now I know this is cutting edge, considered State of the Art racing but 2.5 mil for one car? Obviously with the international schedule of F1 you can’t get by with just one car. With an annual operating budget in the 270 million range certainly many aspiring drivers and teams will choose another form of racing to get their fix. Of course, if you do get a shot at F1 you are immediately a multi-millionaire and cost is suddenly not an issue. If this is the type of racing you truly want to compete in get a Country to back you and make sure the first order of business is to get your $50,000 steering wheel (It’s like you’re playing a video game and yes they cost at least that much) and start practicing!
So looking at those numbers our paved short trackers would appear to have it pretty good. Expenditures to compete are getting out of hand though and if you look at what it costs to run in any given event you are probably going to need a finish no further down the line than 3rd just to break even. Maybe you aren’t supposed to be looking at this from a making a living stand point but a really, really, really expensive hobby it is becoming. Even more disturbing is so few tracks on the same page as far as competitor cross over. Cars and chassis are similar but if you want to travel get ready to buy a bunch of tires stamped by that particular track or sanctioning body that you can’t use anywhere else. This is where the dirt World seems to have a handle on things as with the sanctioning group the tracks and series are affiliated with, and most go under someone’s banner, standardized rules and tires can be used at all such sanctioned tracks and events. That’s how it used to be in the paved World but with sanctioning bodies for the weekly race programs a thing of the past, promoters have taken it upon themselves to form rules and sell tires at their facilities. I know there opinion on it is this mode of operation is by necessity but overall it doesn’t appear it’s resulting in growth at this level of the sport for this division of racing. A big drawing for us in gaining interest in racing was seeing drivers go head to head against each other at various tracks throughout the season. That’s where we determined who our heroes were and followed them everywhere. Today’s potential fan really doesn’t have that opportunity and drawing from a pool of 15 -20 cars to develop this following instead of the 35-40 that should be able to afford to compete isn’t helping. With tracks going to an every other week of racing schedule rather than each week, it’s getting more difficult for racers to justify buying or building a car to compete as well. Plus, how do they get the needed experience and confidence to continue in the sport at that level with so few racing opportunities? What’s the answer? Right now there isn’t s simple, definitive one, at least if the Late Model/Super Late Model Division continues to be the top billed class of car. I know through the years taking a step backward to per se move forward in terms of cost control on race equipment has taken place and sometimes successfully, but just how far do you go with this? Continue with the Super Late Models for Series or touring only racing and not on a regular basis at the local track? To some extent that’s already happened with lesser or even entry level type divisions the top billed class. But do fans come out to see this racing? Do you create new interest and new stars participant wise with that approach? This sport like others has its upward and downward cycles. There is not an easy fix here but make no mistake about it car counts in the Late, Super Late Model Divisions are in a downward cycle as fields continue to dwindle. I hope a solution is near.
Here and there…Mississippi Thunder Speedway, Fountain City, WI got their season started April 27th with Brandon Davis taking the A Modified Feature event…
La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway got their second event of the year in this past Saturday with the savvy veteran Steve Carlson taking the win in a close finish over J. Herbst. Rounding out the top finishers in the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature were Adam Degenhardt who bounced back nicely from a blown engine and a trip into the wall at the first event this year, Ty Majeski who’s learning fast as he also set the fastest qualifying time, Todd Korish, Bill Niles in another sold Feature run, Brent Kirchner, Shawn Pfaff, Cole Howland and Jerimy Wagner…Ok, so you’re pretty sure a Sauter won the Feature at Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI., in the ARCA Midwest Tour race there May 5th. But which one? Travis who finds it hard to lose at the ½ mile having won the last 6 times he’s been at the track? Or Maybe Dad Tim who was racing and was very competitive, or maybe Johnny, Travis’s uncle who dropped in to race on the day. OK, it was again Travis Sauter taking the win, but not before the other Sauter’s had a say in matters racing up front all day before giving way to the youngest of the bunch. For Tr Sauter it was win number 7 in a row at the track and this time it was in the 100 lap Joe Shear Classic Feature event. Jacob Goede almost pulled off the upset finally placing 2nd while Dan Fredrickson also looked like a winner at one point before settling for 3rd. Both Tim and Johnny S had their chances as well but Tim ultimately left the track with mechanical issues while Johnny spun while battling for the lead and decided to call it a day. All in all a heckuva race and a great way to get ARCA Midwest Tour racing going for 2013 in Wisconsin…And in the quote of the column department for this time around it was Travis Sauter. “I don’t even like this track but I guess what you need is to like you’re car.” He’s liked his car for 7 in a row at the big ½ mile paved oval…
Looking back once again at racing at Wausau’s State Park in 1961 it was Augie Winkleman doing it again in the 30 lap Feature event. Futily chasing the speedster in the June 18th event were Bob Jaeger, Jerry Wagner and Buzz Ryan. Semi-Feature honors went to Don Winkleman followed by Harold Hobotch, Kermit Kundo and Ben Landwehr. Heat race victors were Jim Wilde, Herbie Kurth and Jaeger with Ryan taking the Trophy Dash. The Adams County Fairgrounds Speedway held racing June 16th 1961 with you guessed it, Augie Winkleman taking the 30 lap Feature win. Winkleman was followed by Marlin Walbeck, Vern Piotrowski, John Mayer and Lyle Nabbefeldt. Heat race winners were John McNamara, Billy Wirtz and Winkleman. Piotrowski won the Non-Money winners event while Walbeck set the fastest time in qualifying.
Photos: Brian Hesselberg took a hard fought win in the 15 lap Sportsman Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds May 4th. Sauter’s in a row, 99 Tim 5 Travis and 5 Johnny. Pics from the past. Hotshoe back in the day Augie Winkleman #64. Winkleman competition Jerry Wagner #78 and #76 Buzz Ryan. (Marge Farrar photos)
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTOMOBILE RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
April 2013
It’s difficult to remain optimistic the racing season here in the Upper Midwest is going to start in short order with three foot snow banks and 12 inches of frost in the ground, but believe me, we will have an opening race in April. With that in mind I thought I’d take a look at opening shows that got my season going in the last dozen or so years.
Back in 2001 apparently we got a little antsy with waiting for racing action choosing to hit the highway to far away Hutchinson Raceway Park of Hutchinson, KS for their season opener 4/21/01. Modifieds were the top attraction at the 3/8 mile dirt oval and there was a pile of them on hand opening night. With lightning flashing in the west they did manage to get the show in and it was Randy Wilson taking the Feature win. I knew that lightning meant storm and man did we get a dose of it heading to our overnight digs in Wichita, KS. I know now when they warn you of wind and driving a high profile vehicle, take heed! On more than one occasion I thought the Astro Van I was driving was going on its side into the ditch. With little more than barbed wire fence to stop it, the wind blew freely, but thankfully spared us, and we made it to our destination. And while in Kansas, you might as well stay for another show in the state so we did, catching the 81 Speedway of Wichita, KS., event. Sprint cars were the top billed class for tonight with A.J Stelphlug taking the A main. Greg Stephens took the ever popular Modified Feature win. In my race notes I noticed the well run C. Ray Hall production ended at 10:17 pm which we were also very impressed with on a rather chilly night even by Kansas standards. Interesting to note that when we got back to Wisconsin for some racing it was the Fox Ridge Speedway of Arcadia, WI., Grand Opening race our next event attended on 4/27/01. Pat Doar took the headlining Late Model event there in front of more than 2,000 fans. The track today is closed, however, there have been rumblings that if a certain nearby speedway stumbles, Fox Ridge would consider re-opening.
The 2002 season for us got underway in March at the Darlington Raceway, Darlington, SC. How cool to be watching racing with 70 degree temps in the middle of March! The first race we saw there was the Craftsman Truck Series where none other than Illinois born and Wisconsin resided for many years Ted Musgrave was the 200 mile race victor. Closer to home April 6th saw action get underway at the Lake Geneva Raceway, Lake Geneva, WI. Super Late Models were the headliner for the evening and Bob Koidahl was the 35 lap Feature winner. Sadly, that track is closed as well and last we heard the development that was supposed to replace it never happened.
The 2003 race season again started with some NASCAR Cup racing as we made our first ever trip to the Martinsville, VA., Speedway, 4/1/03. No April foolin’, Martinsville is a neat place and we enjoyed watching Jeff Gordon take the Virginia 500 Cup win. April 18th found Madison International Speedway offering a $5,000 to win race with 56 Super Late Model cars showing up to compete! Eric Franzen took that 100 lap Feature win at the big ½ mile paved oval.
La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., has notoriously been the first track in Wisconsin to open and that was the case 4/10/04. We were there and saw 31 NASCAR Late Models do battle with Charlie Menard getting the 25 lap Feature win.
Never one to miss multiple shows in one day that’s how the 2005 season started with us making tracks to both the Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI., and to
La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, 4/9/05. A great field of 47 Super Lates participated at the Dells and it was Charlie Menard again being the first victor we would see taking an opening race season win. Menard had to hold off a hard charging Adam Royle for the win in the 100 lap main event there with Ryan Matthews a close 3rd. At La Crosse we played witness to 33 NASCAR Late Models competing and it was Minnesota traveler Mark Lamoreaux taking the 25 lap Feature win.
With 2006 rolling around it was time to start the race season to the west of our home turf at the Deer Creek Speedway of Racine, MN April 8th. The first track to open in the area found 49 Midwest Mods, 28 Street Stocks, 41 Super Stocks, 29 USRA Modifieds and 25 Late Models checking in to do battle. The top billed division was the Late Models and Ron Schreiner took the Feature win. Our second event to attend in ’06 was at the newly re-opened Tri-Oval Speedway of Fountain City, WI, 4/14/06. Chris Oertel made the substantial haul from Marshfield, WI., to take the main event win in the Modified Division. Many issues that caused delays occurred during the night but the track that originally opened in the 1960s was again up and running!
La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway was again our season opening event destination in 2007 and 26 NASCAR Late Models were on hand to race 4/14/07. The veteran, Steve Carlson took the 25 lap Feature win out racing Kevin Nuttleman and Andy Burgess at the stripe.
More of the same in 2008 as La Crosse Fairgrounds again beat everybody to the punch with their opening show on 4/19/08. On this occasion it was generation next Mike Carlson, son of Steve taking the win in the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature. Dad Steve could only watch from 2nd as his son took his first ever Late Model win. J. Herbst, Shawn Pfaff and Kevin Nuttleman followed in the main event.
A track that has a history dating back to the 1950s is the Chateau Raceway of Lansing, MN. April 17, 2009 found us heading over there for their season opening event. This 1/3 mile clay oval has featured a lot of exciting racing through the years and this night was no exception. Modifieds which had now been the rage for many years were the top billed class and 23 were on hand to compete. Mike Sorenson had the hot set up and it paid off as he captured the Feature event. The win was certainly no fluke as he held off some heavy hitters to include Steve Wettstein, Tommy Myer, Brad Waits and Doug Hillson at the finish.
April 16, 2010 found us at the Mississippi Thunder Speedway, Fountain City, WI., for the season opening event there. The former Tri-Oval Speedway under new management featured four divisions of racing with the A Mods top billed. In their main event it was Josh Angst taking the win over Bob Timm. Interesting to note that long time racer and the ever controversial Karl Fenske was doing the flagging on the night.
And it was off to the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, 4/23/11 for the race season opening event with three divisions of racing featured. Apparently it was a long winter in the area as some rabbits who were calling the race track their own had to be shagged off the speedway before racing could get underway. Once on safer ground, racing commenced with the Wiley old veteran, Steve Carlson taking another opening night win in the NASCAR Late Model Division. Sportsmen action found the popular Jimmy Gilster taking first while Thunderstox competition saw Adam Moore in victory lane.
And, bringing us up to date it was La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway again the entertainment for opening night racing 5/5/12. Brad Powell got his season off to a good start thwarting Steve Carlson’s bid to win yet another opener by taking the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature. Although we note a May date here it must have been a warm one as the frogs in Lake Speed at the track were the happiest around singing merrily to the sound of roaring V-8 racing engines… or something on that order.
So friends, there is hope for racing to occur and soon as you’ll note nearly all the opening events we covered here in the last 12 or so years occurred in April. Keep the faith and we’ll see you at a track somewhere in the next few weeks!
Here and there…Speaking of opening races we see where the Deer Creek Speedway is still scheduled to open on April 6th, 2013. The ARCA Midwest Tour kicks off their 2013 season at Toledo Speedway, Toledo, OH., 4/19-20, 2013. Upper Iowa Speedway, Decorah, Iowa will get things rolling there on 4/20/13. La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway is looking at a 4/20/13 date for their NASCAR Late Model, Sportsmen, Thunderstox and Hornet divisions of racing opener. Mississippi Thunder Speedway is looking at a 4/26/13 date to start racing. Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI has set May 4th as its opening night, while the Veterans Raceway Park track in Tomah, WI is looking at a full schedule of racing beginning May 10th. These are just some of the tracks within reasonable distance of this area announcing their opening race events. These tracks will also be hosting practice days before opening so check their websites for those dates…
Going back into time…way back in time, it was Augie Winkleman taking the 30 lap Feature May 21st, 1961 at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI. Winkleman was followed by Jerry Wagner, Buzz Ryan and Ken Pancratz. The 25 lap Semi-Feature went to Herbie Kurth. Heat race winners were Don Winkleman, Kurth and Ryan. Dave Marcis took the Trophy Dash win…The Adams County Fairgrounds Speedway recently paved and promoted by Sam Bartus opened in 1961 on Friday night, June 2nd. The first ever paved track event at the track in Friendship, WI., found Marlin Walbeck #30 taking the 25 lap Feature win. Walbeck in his ’56 Chevy was followed by Augie Winkleman, #64, Ron Deboer, #68, Lyle Nabbefeldt, X and Les Katzner, #16. Heat race honors went to Dean Spohn, #6, and Winkleman, with Deboer taking the non-money winners event and Winkleman the Trophy Dash. Winkleman set the fastest time at 20:05 seconds. Notably in 5th in time trials was Dick Trickle in a ’56 Ford at 21:22 seconds…
Photos: Cup regular #18 Paul Menard does a little racing at The Dells track in 2002. Jimmy Mars heads for the track in 2005 at Deer Creek Speedway. #51 Chris Oertel ready to race his Modified at Tri-Oval Speedway in 2006. #66 Steve Carlson getting racy in 2011 at Madison International Speedway. #12 Bobby Allison raced this car at Wausau’s State Park Speedway in 1975.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
March, 2013
By Dale P. Danielski
Being up here in the cold and snowy North Country our only means of catching race action has been tuning into the TV Tube for Daytona Beach Florida Speedweeks activities. Of course that meant checking out the UNOH “Battle at the Beach” racing action.
A cool concept and something new, we enjoyed watching Whelen All-American and K & N Series competitors try and conquer the reasonably flat paved Speedway which was laid out utilizing the backstretch of Daytona International Speedway. It was cool that is, until the end of each event over the two day period. Since when is it OK to blatantly take out the leader to win a race? I don’t mean gentle nudging one out of the groove to pass, I mean “bonzaing” the corner and crashing the guy in front of you to win!
The highly touted Kyle Larson started this method of winning in day one by taking out leader CE Falk III on the last corner of the last lap of the NASCAR Whelen All-American 150 lap Late Model event. Larson didn’t seem to have any remorse over the incident making it sound like this is just part of racing. Ah…excuse me, but that isn’t racing that is intentially wrecking. NASCAR officials didn’t seem to think anything was wrong with the maneuver either as Larson was allowed to keep the win and the $15,000 or so that went with it. What seems a little strange here is that they did reprimand a driver earlier with a black flag for over aggressive driving putting him in the back on a restart after making contact with a fellow competitor. So why doesn’t taking the leader out on the last lap constitute the same action? It seems the whole mentality anymore is anything goes on the last lap even if it means crashing out the leader to win. Sad to say but NASCAR created this problem by allowing it to happen on too many to count occasions at their top levels of racing, Cup, Nationwide and the Truck Series. I guess if it’s acceptable at those levels it has to be OK here. Unfortunately for me much in the way of loss of respect goes out to Larson for this win at all costs maneuver. Maybe I’m in the minority and I hope not, but I would think car owners would take note and make certain this isn’t the new breed of “talent” to be looking for to steer their racing equipment which in turn is supposed to provide a favorable image of the sport. If you can’t win by out driving someone maybe you need to finish second and get’em next time.
Of course as I mentioned earlier this was only the first race of the two day event. The exact same scenario unfolded in the two other main events with the leaders each getting booted after taking the white flag! I guess Larson set the precedent for this with his tainted win. Steve Park got the win in the NASCAR Whelen 150 lap Modified main on day two as he went through Mike Stefanik to win. Stefanik didn’t buy any of Park’s explanation of trying to “stay off” his bumper only being able to say “Yea right” between swear words! That win was worth $20,000 to Park and maybe as a good will gesture he should offer at least half of it to Stefanik. And finally, in the K&N Pro Series finale it was Gray Gaulding crashing Michael Self out of the lead in overtime of the scheduled 150 lap event with the result appearing to give Gaulding the inside track to the win. A wide girth by Gaulding of the last corner however allowed Cameron Hayley to slip by and take the checkered flag 1st! Validation for Gaulding being prevented from winning for taking out the leader in the first place maybe?
I don’t know, but maybe this is what fans want to see from drivers these days. Again, I have to say I hope not, and boy if we start seeing this when racing begins in this part of the Country come Spring, look out!
Here and there…OK, I know it supposedly pays the bills, but do the same three or four advertisers during the majority of the Speed TV telecasts really think we are more inclined to buy their products after advertising them 20 times an hour? I think it’s more of a reason not to endorse them especially when they are doing it while racing action is taking place. Why aren’t we doing the split screen deal for this? I think that’s a great way to capture the best of both Worlds. Of course Speed parent company FOX was no better for the 500 utilizing split screen so little early it was of little value and very minimally late when it would have made a difference, instead barraging everyone with ad after ad throughout. I pity those trying to watch these races through the rest of the year but that’s all the more reason to get out to your local track once things get cranked up this Spring. No ads while you’re sitting in the stands and debris cautions an extreme rarity... Attendance sure didn’t look too good to me in the racing I witnessed on the tube. The UNOH events grandstands looked terrible while Truck, Nationwide and even Cup racing found many seats where bodies were supposed to be…Maybe with the wild wreck in the Nationwide race that tore the front end off Kyle Larson’s car he’ll realize this wrecking thing can be really dangerous. Thankfully he came out of the wreck unscathed and hopefully a bit wiser…Well with the release of the 2013 La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., schedule you know racing season can’t be too far off. Something new at the track this year will be Figure 8 racing. I can’t wait to see that!
Taking our regular look in past years racing, it was Augie Winkleman taking the 30 lap Feature win at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., on May 14th 1961. Buzz Ryan, Ken Pancratz and Jerry Volm followed. Winkleman had a banner night as he also won the Semi-Feature, 2nd heat, Trophy dash and time trials. The only two other winners were Ryan in the 1st heat and Volm in the 3rd. At the Stratford Speedway, Stratford, WI., on September 6th 1961, it was Jerry Wagner taking the Feature race over Jesse Meachem, Dick Shefchik and Allen Schjoneman. The Semi-Feature went to Woody Schmutzler with heat victories going to Bruno Swiderski, Hilarian Michlig and Joe “Sonny” Martin. Fast Qualifier with a new track record of 18.5 seconds was Ken Pancratz…
Photos: More from our 1981 Florida Speedweeks vacation. #2 Dale Earnhardt Sr. at the “Big Track”. Dirt stars doing some short trackin’, #02 Ken Walton, #1 Tom Nesbitt and #53 Joe Kosiski. And the King of Modified racing #61 Richie Evans at New Smyrna Beach, FL. Speedway.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
February, 2013
Once again in our series of articles here in the off-season we look back at racing from a bygone era. This time around we are looking at the 1981 racing season in the Upper Midwest.
We have noted that specially fabricated chassis’s were becoming a major part of the landscape during this time period as the bulk of drivers were going this route over junkyard, or homebuilt racing machines. The same thing was happening with engine construction as numerous companies were building engines for drivers promising more horsepower and longevity with minimal maintenance. Of course accomplishing this came at a cost with these engines ranging in the $10,000-$20,000 range.
Ray Baker of Baker Engineering was one builder who established a very impressive list of clients with the so called “High Buck” engines. Mark Martin was one of his earliest customers and the young Arkansas racer proved to be very fast with his Dillon Chassis and Baker Engines. Looking at the Baker list of winners in 1980 is indeed impressive as besides Martin, Bob Senneker, Mike Eddy, Butch Miller, Don Gregory, Junior Hanley, Terry Senneker and Ray Young all won with those engines under their hoods. That’s some who’s who of racing! In an ad Baker ran boasting of his product, Hanley was listed as having won 49 of the 65 races he started. Florida racer Dickie Anderson won 44 races including 17 in a row. Martin had the fastest qualifying time in 24 of 30 races he competed in including setting 16 new track records. To all that I say WOW!
Of course Prototype Engineering was another company that produced a “Higher End” engine and they were fortunate in having none other than Dick Trickle utilizing their power plants, which of course the majority of the time produced the winning combination. Mark Martin even raced a Prototype during the 1981 season and continued his top performance on the short tracks. Larry Detjens was racing his new Dennis Frings Chassis with the highly rated Draime Engine power and appeared to have the early season hot set up. Kirn Racing Engines and Hutter were a couple more builders that got into the short track market with the more expensive engines. They could all brag of much success with their respective drivers, but was it worth spending the money when you consider that the weekly shows held in the region were paying $250-$500 to win? Local racing groups such as CWRA were trying to cut costs for these types of shows having gone with a limited 9-1 Compression engine rule but many drivers wanted the best of both Worlds as in being able to race the same equipment at all shows as they’d been able to do for so many years. Doing this caught Larry Detjens one night by surprise as after a win in May at the CWRA sanctioned Capital Super Speedway, Oregon, WI. his engine was claimed! According to rules fellow competitors could claim engines of others in Feature races that were CWRA sanctioned. Richie Bickle Jr., claimed Detjens’ engine for the $3,500 claim price and Detjens kept his win by accepting the claim. The victory for Detjens paid more than what a normal night’s racing would have, but I guarantee his engine was worth more than the $3,500 Bickle Jr., bought it for! Carl Wegner was another engine builder that could produce the more expensive version engine but was also a huge advocate of saving the racers money as well. It certainly made for interesting conversation to see who was running what and where during the 1981 season and it seemed to signal the beginning of the end for the home built chassis and engine guys. It was just becoming really tough to go the home built route and stay on the track when you could head to the store and but what you needed! Marv Marzofka was one of the few that continued to field all his own equipment and did continue his winning ways.
Heading into the 1981 season this scribe was fortunate to start out his season down in Sunny Florida catching action at numerous short tracks as well as the big one, Daytona International Speedway. When not watching racing somewhere we could be found entertaining sea gulls and Pelicans on the beach along with some long nights and mornings making sure the watering holes stayed in business. All in all you couldn’t ask for a better way to shorten the long, cold Midwestern winter.
Of particular interest while in the Sunshine State was viewing the three night show at the Winterhaven Speedway of Auburndale, FL. The very racy ¼ mile paved track with John Boswell serving as promoter offered $3,000 to win 100 lap features each night. Even more interesting was the fact these shows brought a great mix of both dirt and pavement stars. Dirt star Ronnie Johnson captured the final 100 lapper and was crowned the overall champion while paved track Florida hero Leroy Porter won two features taking home over $6,000 in the process. Charlie Swartz, another dirt phe-nom had fastest time one of the nights which certainly wouldn’t have been predicted going into the event. A couple drivers I had always wanted to see compete and each a winner of hundreds of races in their respective regions, the North East and South East U.S., Red Farmer and Buzzie Reutimann were on hand. What a treat it was to see them race and they weren’t alone as more star power to include Billy Gill, David Pletcher, Jim Cope, Butch Yoakum, Dave Dunkin, Bobby Tinkham, Dick Anderson, Jim Cope, were all also in attendance.
Other track visits while in the sunny south included the East Bay Raceway of Gibsonton, FL. Pennsylvania star Kenny Brightbill won two Features of the Fourth Annual Southern Late Model Nationals while Charlie Swartz showing his versatility took the finale and the overall series crown. Again drivers in attendance I’d never seen compete included Bob Wearing, Will Cagle, Freddy Smith, Tom Helfrich, Ray Godsey, Ed Sanger, Larry Moore, John Mason, and Ken Walton. How many Feature wins do you think that group of drivers combined had when all was said and done?
Desoto Memorial Speedway of Bradenton, FL was another stop I was able to make on the trip and in the programs 100 lap Feature it was Dick Anderson taking the win over Leroy Porter. Dick Trickle hanging around after competing in the Annual World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing at New Smyrna Beach Speedway placed 3rd in that race. Speaking of New Smyrna it was Junior Hanley taking the World Series Crown there. Winners during the series included Mike Eddy, Joe Shear, Gary Balough, Hanley and Trickle.
With Speedweeks ending and the racing fever high it wasn’t long and the Midwestern season was set to begin. Some racers were getting a head start on things however as Dick Trickle stayed in Florida an extra week or so and was able to win at New Smyrna Speedway. Larry Detjens struggled during Speedweeks short track racing but quickly corrected things by taking two huge wins in March in California. Joe Shear’s racing and winning in Florida helped get him off to a good start when back North in 1981 as he captured the ARTGO Spring Classic at Rockford, IL., Speedway.
With racing getting into high gear one huge noted change in our neck of the woods found the Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI., eliminating the top division, Late Models for 1981. The top division to start out the year was known as Late Model Sportsmen and Gary Kawleski took the 25 lap Feature win there April 19th in a Pontiac Firebird. Preferring to see our known stars racing at the home track we decided to find other venues on the days Plover was holding their events. It didn’t stop us from hitting an insanely number of events elsewhere as you could still catch shows 4-5 nights a week at the very minimum.
Speaking of traveling, Jim Weber a Minnesota native was now doing most of his racing in Wisconsin at various tracks. On a not so memorable occasion Weber won the Feature at the Lake Geneva Raceway, Lake Geneva, WI., only to find he had been disqualified due to his car not meeting the minimum 1200 Lb. right side weight requirement. Conrad Morgan was awarded that win after the DQ.
Although Larry Detjens was far and away the hottest driver racing, (He won 6 Feature races in a week’s time in early June) others were having successful campaigns as well. John Ziegler in the CharlieYelk prepared machine took several wins in May at the Slinger Super Speedway, Slinger, WI., and also at Capital Super Speedway. Up and coming driver Kevin Stepan was finding Feature winning success at Wausau’s State Park Speedway. Jim Sauter was still racing the short tracks and running well at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI, taking the first seven main events held there as well as winning in ARTGO competition. Steve Carlson was moving up the racing ladder taking a “Special event” win at Golden Sands Speedway in the Late Model Sportsman Division. Although car counts were good at Golden Sands the fan following was down and the Late Model Division returned to the ultra-fast 3/10 mile paved oval. Mike Miller promptly won the Feature in their return.
In a bizarre and very unfortunate twist, Late Model competitor Steve Burgess had his race shop in Eau Claire, WI., broken into and nearly everything in it stolen. The loss was estimated at $110,000 and Burgess said he had no insurance! Even more distressing was finding everything destroyed in Texas after the thief had set the rig and car ablaze.
We haven’t mentioned Dick Trickle a whole lot here but he was hard at it racing three cars at various tracks and Series. To keep track of all his equipment Trickle had names for all his cars as well. Being a big fan of the old Gunsmoke TV series, they were named Matt, Festus and Miss Kitty who of course were all part of the cast on the popular show. The cars were all definitely competitive too, as Trickle had accumulated 20 wins by the first of July. Larry Detjens meanwhile was up to 22 Feature wins but then on August 1st the unmentionable happened. In a wreck after contact with Alan Kulwicki in the 1st of two 50 lap races of the ARTGO event at Wisconsin International Raceway, Detjens car slid passenger side into the exposed inside guard rail piercing the vehicle and striking Larry which resulted in terminal internal injuries. Gone in a blink of an eye was one of the most popular and talented drivers race fans in the Midwest had seen. Sadder yet is the fact that Larry was set to make an all out assault on NASCAR Cup Racing the following season, something few from this part of the Country had been successful at. With his prowess in the long races no one doubts he would have made it in the big time, but that of course would never be determined.
With the ’81 season winding down it was time for the Annual trek to Falcon Heights, Minnesota for the always very prestigious State Fair racing. Mike Miller who was having a so-so season racing made the campaign worthwhile by capturing the biggest win of his career, the 300 lap Feature finale on the immaculate ½ mile paved oval. Other season ending special event winners were Junior Hanley in the Rockford Short Track Championships and at the Oktoberfest Racing Weekend at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI and Dick Trickle in the Larry Detjens Memorial race at State Park Speedway, the ARTGO Summer Nationals at Capital Super Speedway and the Budweiser Invitational at Wisconsin International Raceway. Jim Sauter took the ARTGO season crown and ended up with 20 or so victories on the year.
And so, that’s how 1981 in a nutshell went racing wise in our area. Our personal chasing of events took us to 81 race programs at 30 or so different tracks. Remember that word insane we used earlier?
Notes from 1981…The racetrack formed out of a gravel pit, today known as Marshfield Motor Speedway was still a dirt track in 1981 and known as Yellow River Speedway. 16 year old Kevin Cywinski who would go on to a fair amount of pavement racing success was a regular winner at the ½ mile dirt oval during the season in the Street Stock Division…The Tomah-Sparta, Wisconsin Speedway which was a part of the racing circuit in the 1960s but had been shuttered for many years reopened in 1981 and was renamed Wild Bills Track and Trailer. The track remained open for some time before again closing. Lo and behold it has now once again re-opened once and is called Tomah Veterans Raceway…The ARTGO Series visited Elko Minnesota Speedway for the first time ever and it was Jim Sauter leading a large Wisconsin contingent of racers to the checkered flag in the 100 lap Feature. In weekly action at the track it was the Murgics, Mike and Steve winning on a regular basis…
Here and there…Big news here of late is the merging of ARCA and the former ASA Midwest Tour to form a new branch of race sanctioning here in the Midwest. And with that, the release of the 2013 schedule for the ARCA Midwest Tour. Of note to folks in this area is Veterans Raceway Park of Tomah, WI., appearing on the schedule. That tight 3/8 mile and reasonably flat oval track is definitely going to produce a big challenge for all the Tour guys to try and conquer. Most of the traditional events are once again on the schedule plus Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., is back on the slate along with a co-sanctioned event with the ARCA/CRA Series at Toledo Speedway, Toledo, OH., on April 19th and 20th. Co-Sanctioning will also take place between ARCA MT and ARCA CRA at Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI., August 10th and 11th…
And taking an even look further in the past, it was Jesse Meachem taking the 30 lap Feature win at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., on May 7th 1961. The track had been paved for the ’61 season after serving for a number of years as a dirt oval and this was the first event of the year there. Meachem who was racing a 1950 Oldsmobile was followed by Ed Baranoski in a 1956 Ford and Ken Pancratz also in a ’56 Model Ford. They were the only three to finish the race! Heat race winners were Jerry Volm, and Augie Winkleman, while Winkleman also won the Trophy Dash….Stratford Speedway, Stratford, WI., was another track that was paved for the 1961 racing season and held events on a regular basis. On Wednesday, August 23, it was Marlin Walbeck winning the Feature event over Leroy Binder, Ken Pancratz and Allen Schjoneman. The Semi-Feature went to Woody Schmutzler over Bill Worth and Art Halverson. The Consolation was won by Dick Shefchik with Tiny Coyer and Ron Graveen following. Heat race wins went to Schmutzler, Ken Schaefer and Bob Messer. Fast time honors went to Jerry Wagner at 18.8 seconds around the 1/3 mile oval.
Photos Dirt track stars racing in Florida in 1981 #19 Kenny Brightbill and #00 Buzzie Reutimann. Paved racers in Florida in 1981 #92 Dick Anderson and Mr. attention getter, #112 Gary “Hotshoe” Balough. #66 Rusty Wallace was still earning his racing stripes short tracking in 1981. The Larry Detjens look sadly in his last year of racing. News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
BY Dale P. Danielski
December, 2012
Since Midwest Racing Connection published a Checkered Flag Racing News Retro issue earlier this year and I came across a years worth of CFRN papers from 1980 we’ll take a look here and see just what was going on in racing 32 years ago.
1980 marked the beginning of “Spoiler Madness” as drivers racing in Florida at New Smyrna Speedway in New Smyrna Beach, FL., modified their race cars bodies to try and keep up with Gary Balough who appeared with a pretty radical looking car to race. A northern contingent of drivers, Dick Trickle, Larry Detjens, Tom Reffner, John Boegeman, Steve Burgess, Joe Shear, Mel Walen, Mike Miller among others all found themselves scrambling to bend sheet metal in ways never tried before to gain speed at the ½ mile paved New Smyrna track. It got pretty crazy and would influence the look of cars heading into the season in the Upper Midwest.
The American Speed Association opened that Series’ season in West Chester, Ohio and drivers appeared with all kinds of weird looking stuff. Officials made them all either trim or totally remove the parts that weren’t in keeping with the intent of the rules and things did get to looking a bit more normal at least. Mark Martin ended up winning that race in a very subdued, even stock appearing Camaro.
Midwestern racing got started with the Annual ARTGO Spring Opener at Rockford, IL., Speedway. Larry Detjens less all the add on sheet metal from Florida took that event in his Camaro. Central Wisconsin racers got rolling with the new $3,500 cost limit on engines ruling with Rick Haase, Dick Trickle, Tom Reffner, Dave Watson and Mike Miller taking wins. Miller appeared to be adapting best to the new rules taking three wins in a row at Wausau’s State Park Speedway along with wins at Plover’s Golden Sands Speedway. Miller was for the 2nd year in a row behind the wheel of an Oldsmobile Cutlass which was a huge departure from the Camaros that dominated action for so long.
A number of drivers that would later go on to bigger things were racing in 1980. Mark Martin had the hot set up in ASA competition taking several wins in April and May. Ted Musgrave was traveling more from home in Illinois and winning races in Wisconsin, while Rusty Wallace was in a battle with Joe Ruttman in USAC Stock Car competition trading wins throughout the year. Of course Wallace would shortly thereafter move into NASCAR Cup racing and we know the end result of that. There were also a couple upstarts with a familiar name racing in the entry level Road Runner Division at Golden Sands Speedway. Both Baird and Bryan Reffner were racing AMC products just like papa Tom and doing quite well in their rookie season.
One of the weirdest events to take place during the year was an ARTGO event at the Illiana Speedway of Schererville, IN over the Memorial Day weekend. The program there was going smoothly until a thick fog rolled in that made it virtually impossible to see the racetrack and cars in the corners and backstretch from the main grand stands. The drivers claimed they could see OK racing as the fog was high enough to see ahead and behind. With the pea soup refusing to lift it was finally decided to place a flagman (Dick Beebe) on the backstretch along with the one in front, Bill Gronley. Both paid particular attention to each car in the field that went by and all went quite well. That’s until Beebe displayed the yellow flag on the backstretch. Reason for the slowdown? All the cars hadn’t gone by therefore he thought one had spun and a yellow caution was necessary! Actually nothing had happened to necessitate the yellow, it was just that one of the competitors had pitted! Better to be safe than sorry during this crazy night of racing I guess. Ed Hoffman ultimately was declared the overall winner of the Chicagoland Challenge winning one feature and placing 2nd to Dick Trickle in the other.
1980 also marked the beginning of the Annual and long running Slinger Nationals at Slinger Super Speedway. Mark Martin, Jim Sauter and Larry Detjens won feature events at the two programs held in June and July with Detjens being crowned the 1st ever, Overall Slinger Nationals Champion.
A number of Late Model racers from Minnesota such as Dan Priziborowski, Dewey Gustafson, Don James and Jim Weber among others still disenchanted with the move to Sportsman car type rules in their home state were traveling to Wisconsin and doing quite well. It paid off in grand fashion for Gustafson at State Park Speedway July 17th as he took one of the two 30 lap Features held on the night.
Race car specs and rules again became a hot topic as Mark Martin was involved in a wreck at Capital Speedway of Oregon, WI. that broke his leg. A gap in the drivers side front fender area made for a clear path to his leg which caused the fracture. Drivers then decided to put another bar in that spot as part of the roll cage which prevented additional such injuries. In the meantime with Martin out of the seat of his race car, Darrell Waltrip who was carving out quite a career in NASCAR Cup racing was given a shot behind the wheel for the 200 lap ARTGO event at La Crosse Interstate Speedway of West Salem, WI. Waltrip promptly blew away the competition on the way to the 200 lap win.
And, much to the dismay of many of us who liked the different look, Mike Miller debuted a new Chevy Camaro in July with Bemco Engineering front and rear clips under it replacing the Olds Cutlass he had been racing. The car was fast right out of the box as Miller won the 50 lap Feature at State Park Speedway the first night out.
With the season winding down Martin, Detjens, Trickle, Shear and Marzofka continued their winning ways but others such as like Kevin Stepan, Steve Moll, John Ziegler, Jim Back and Steve Burgess also found themselves in victory lane.
With end of year specials starting with the Annual Minnesota Fair Races in Falcon Heights sadly on the day it would be long time competitor Bob Jusola’s last race. Jusola was racing in the 300 lap event when he succumbed to a heart attack. The attack was massive and Jusola was gone at the age of 48. Bob Senneker went on to win the race held on the ½ mile paved oval.
Other prestigious season ending event winners included Jim Sauter in the 200 Lap Rockford Speedway National Short Track Championship Feature and the Bettenhausen 100 at Illiana Speedway, Mark Martin in the Annual Oktoberfest event at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, Dick Trickle in the Bob Jusola Memorial race at Elko Minnesota Speedway and the World Cup 400 at I-70 Speedway, Odessa, MO., Larry Detjens in the Bud 200 event at Colorado International Speedway, Colorado Springs, CO., and Steve Burgess at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI., and Bakersfield, CA., Speedway.
All in all it was a very interesting year of racing in the Upper Midwest in 1980 with more of the same predicted for the rest of the decade. With the response being what it has been with these type of efforts, we will probably do more retro-ing in winter issues of MRC. Stay tuned!
Here and there…Speaking of CWRA, the group does still exist and is planning a Reunion for this summer which all previous members will be invited to. They are also looking into the history of the sport in Central Wisconsin, specifically of the Griffith Park Speedway in Wisconsin Rapids, WI., which held the first paved racing in that area.
Looking back in time Griffith Park Speedway held the first ever paved racing event for stock cars on Sunday night, July 17th. The $20,000 to construct facility which featured a ¼ mile almost circular oval and was promoted by Sam Bartus, provided the first racing in the area in nearly 5 years. Jere O’Day won the 25 lap Feature and was followed by Don Ruder and Ken Pancratz. The Semi-Feature was also won by O’Day and he was followed by Jim Gurney and John Detert in that event. Heat race wins went to John Moquin, Augie Winkleman, and Ruder. O’Day set the fastest time in qualifying. Also note that Dick Trickle did participate in the night’s program placing 3rd in the 1st heat. Unbeknownst to most the track opened the night before, Saturday, with Midget race cars the main attraction. Billy Woods won that division of racing’s feature.
Photos. Drivers and their versions of “Spoiler Madness” early in the 1980 racing season included Jim Derhaag (Silver car) and Ed Hoffman. (Black and Gold car) Officials kindly asked the drivers to remove the space age looking appendages.…Mike Miller’s Oldsmobile Cutlass #18 that he campaigned for part of the 1980 season before switching to a Camaro…Mark Martin #2 a prolific winner during the 1980 season…
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
BY Dale P. Danielski
November, 2012
With all the hype and the pending drama and excitement that was certain to go with it to determine the NASCAR Late Model track champion heading into Oktoberfest racing weekend at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway 10/4-7/12 it’s almost fitting that it ended with a resounding thud before the race cars and drivers could even get through the first corner of the first lap of the final Feature race.
Shawn Pfaff and Todd Korish were supposed to battle it out tooth and nail for 40 laps in the main event to determine the 2012 Champion, but only one of them survived the “Big One” and the championship was over before the race even started. Only two points separated the two going into the night’s main event with Pfaff holding the edge. At the drop of the green Mark Lamoreaux and Bill Niles got together heading into turn one which send both spinning. With nearly nowhere to go at least half the field piled into the two disabled cars and one of them was Pfaff. With front end damage too severe to continue, the Championship was Korish’s, if he could complete a few laps and finish a few spots in front of Pfaff. Although a couple close calls nearly prevented that once the race restarted, Korish did avoid further trouble and the result was his first ever NASCAR Late Model track Championship. The 40 lap Feature race was to say the least ho-hum with Steve Carlson running away with the win but for Korish and his 6th place finish it was the best that could have happened.
And of course this event which opened the Annual Oktoberfest racing festivities set the tone for what again proved to be a very exciting four days of racing.
The ASA Midwest Tour was anything but ho-hum in determining its season Champion, as Jon Eilen did just about everything he could to try and lose the title! With constant trouble Eilen eventually had to settle for a provisional start in the 100 lap Feature finale. From there things finally turned around for the Minnesota racer as he place a sold 5th and won the title by 17 points over Nathan Haseleu. It was Eilen’s first ASA Championship and certainly his biggest in racing through the years.
Looking at other action during ‘Fest it was Matt Inglett winning the final Sportsman Feature and Randy Humfeld with a 6th place finish taking that Division title. Futures Super Late Model action found Matt Tifft holding off a late race bid by Bobby Kendall for the win. Not to be upstaged by the NASCAR Late Models this race also featured a huge crash to start the race. Close to half the field was involved but order was restored and action continued. Mark Chalet won the Thunderstox main but it was Tom Luethe taking the Division Championship. It wasn’t without controversy however as Luethe and closest challenger Dakota Miller tangled with Miller done for the night and Luethe having to start in the back with only a couple laps left. A 9th place finish was just enough though for Luethe to take the title by a scant three points over Miller!
The top attraction for day two of ‘Fest was the Dick Trickle 99 event. Skylar Holzhausen was the most consistent in the three Features that make up the event and took home the “Big Cheese” overall win trophy. Holzhausen capped off the event by winning the third 33 lap segment which clinched the crown. Dan Fredrickson and Casey Johnson won the other two segments but couldn’t parlay their winning performances into an overall win.
The Area Sportsman race definitely provided the most exciting finish of the night. Randy Humfeld who got nudged into the backstretch wall on the last lap of the race was running 3rd with about 1,000 feet of racing left, but then Rick Schermerhorn who was the nudger and in 2nd, got into leader Brent Kane in turn three. Kane wasn’t about to settle for that so heading out of turn four got into the back of Schermerhorn which sent both drivers into the turn four wall. Lo and behold 3rd place suddenly became first and Humfeld with a severely bent car crossed under the checkered flag 1st!
Night three of ‘Fest found Zack Riddle setting a new track record in qualifying and following it up with the 68 lap Big 8 Series Feature win. But the big news of the night was the Outlawz Division undefeated season coming to an end for Jerry Aylsworth. Brett Wenzel picked up tonight’s feature win with Aylsworth who had not lost a race all year placing 7th.
The final day of racing for this the 43rd edition of the Oktoberfest event found Travis Sauter capturing the 100 lap ASA Midwest Tour feature race. There were no disqualifications to elevate Sauter to the position as was the case last year and Sauter’s win was deemed official. Skylar Holzhausen made the race close at the end but came up a couple car lengths short at the finish. Dan Fredrickson, Griffin McGrath and ASA 2012 Champion Jon Eilen rounded out the top 5. Big 8 Series racing was featured on the day in the form of three 21 lap main events. Local NASCAR racer J. Herbst won one of the mains to cap off a solid weekend of racing. Bobby Wilberg and Kyle Shear took the other two 21 lappers. Zack Riddle parlayed consistent finishes in all three mains and was declared the overall JMcK Champion. The event is named in honor of the late promoter John McKarns. In a unique format race, the Late Model Challenge was held which featured drivers racing on both the 5/8 mile track and also the ¼ oval in the infield. Matt Berger was the most consistent finisher in the two segments and declared the overall winner.
Here and there…Todd Korish became the first NASCAR Late Model Champion at La Crosse to go Feature race winless throughout the year… Matt Tifft capped off a fine year of racing by winning the Futures Feature as part of ‘Fest and also taking Rookie of the Year honors on the ASA Midwest Tour…Jeff Storm Toured the 5/8 mile oval in 18:527 seconds to top ASA Midwest Tour qualifying. In case you are wondering that’s an average speed of 105.980 Miles per hour and a new track record…Skylar Holzhausen ended the season on a high note as in addition to his Oktoberfest success he also was the overall winner of the Marshfield Shootout at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., September 29th. Skylar captured one of the 50 lap features as part of the event while Father Steve took the other…It appears long time pavement and dirt competitor Mark Kraus may have run his last race at Oktoberfest. Leasing Super Late Model race cars to the Decker clan this past year and also nurturing a young son along in racing has Kraus looking at other ventures come 2013 and beyond…The four day crowd total for this years Oktoberfest was estimated in the 15,000 range. After a number of years of warm, actual balmy temperatures this year found 40s and 50s for day time highs and in the upper 20s at night…Speaking of crowds there was a very nice turn out of Champion drivers from past years of racing at the Champions Reunion Sunday as part of ‘Fest. Bob Kosiski who won here at the track when it was a dirt half mile was on hand and had plenty of good racing history information to offer…Start planning now for Oktoberfest 2013 which will be held October 3-6…Photos. Todd Korish #32 2012 NASCAR Late Model Champion at La Crosse…Skylar Holzhausen Trickle 99 victor at Oktoberfest 2012…Pics from the past…Lyle Nabbefeldt drove this Coupe bodied race car in 1966. Photo courtesy of Bob Bergeron…#55 Homer Spink who raced throughout Wisconsin in the 1960s and into the ‘70s, racing this Ford Mustang in 1974…
Looking back in time on August 12, 1961 the Black River Falls Speedway opened and held there first ever event. #X Lyle Nabbefeldt in a 1955 Studebaker was the Feature winner and was followed by #64 Augie Winkleman, ’56 Chevy, #30 Marlin Walbeck, ’56 Chevy, #65 Vic Kopacz, ’56 Chevy and #46 Bud Barfnecht in a 1947 Hudson. The Semi-Feature winner was #74 John Smith while heat race wins went to #45 Sonny Drake and #37 Don Bernander. Attendance was reported to be 2,800 with a $1,000 purse paid out. A total of 44 race cars participated.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
BY Dale P. Danielski
October, 2012
It was off to the Iowa Speedway of Newton Iowa here September 14th for ASA Midwest Tour action. Anyone who has not seen a race at this facility should plan for it in the future as it is top notch through and through. In our first ever visit to the facility we were to say the least impressed!!
And expanding on impressive with the $5,000 question is, how many of you readers out there predicted Brent Kirchner would win the 150 lap race at the 7/8 mile paved oval? Kirchner although running only a few races with the Tour in 2012 was confident and Chris Wimmer is probably wishing he didn’t think Kirchner could win as he was beaten by the La Crosse, WI., driver in a car Wimmer sold him and won this event with last year! After battling side by side for the last half dozen laps Kirchner edged Wimmer for the win taking the $5,000 top prize in the process. The two were going over set up notes for the race during the day and it just had to be painful for Wimmer knowing that the help he provided was probably a bit much and provided Kirchner the necessary edge to win. In addition, the extra points Wimmer may have gotten to win the race most certainly would have put him in a better position heading into the last two Tour races to perhaps catch Jon Eilen who had problems during the day for Championship laurels. As it stands now just 20 points separate the top four in the ASA Championship hunt.
But hold on a minute. With the event at Elko Speedway, 9/22/12 in the books it’s down to the last event, Oktoberfest October 7th to determine the ASA Midwest Tour Champion. Jon Eilen rebounded nicely from his poor finish in Iowa to place 3rd and expand his lead a bit to 22 points over Nate Haseleu. Chris Wimmer fell out of the 100 lap race early and is now 29 points behind with Chris Weinkauf next 30 out of the top spot. The four still have a shot at the title and again it will all be decided at the Annual Oktoberfest racing weekend October 4-7. After an entire season of racing four drivers still legitimately in contention for a championship. That’s what the fans want to see and they have definitely gotten there money’s worth this year!
Speaking of Championships, Ben Pettis who had led the Super Late Model Standings at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., for much of the year needed a decent finish in the 40 lap Feature to win it here 9/15/12. He didn’t get it, and as a result of his 2nd place finish in the main, Jim Sauter Jr., is the 2012 Champion at the track. What a way to lose a championship on the last regular night of racing but what a way to win a championship coming from behind in the final feature event! Mark Eswein won the 40 lap race with Sauter Jr., Steve Holzhausen, Ryan Hinner and Paige Decker following.
Here and there…To say the finish of the 100 lap Thunderstruck 93 ASA Feature race at Elko Speedway ended in controversial fashion would be the understatement of the year! Jacob Goede led most of the way but the aggressive, apparently needing to win worse Dan Fredrickson got into him in the last corner of the last lap which allowed just enough space along the sideways Goede for Fredrickson to eke out a two foot win as the checkered flag waved. The win was not a very popular one with fans as the booing heard from the speedway after the race has only been rivaled by fans this year showing their displeasure with NFL officials! It definitely created excitement and more than likely will put some more fans in the stands for the next event as everyone ponders what will happen next!...Final order of finish after 150 laps in the ASA event at Iowa Speedway found Brent Kirchner first followed by Chris Wimmer, Chris Weinkauf, Jeff Choquette, and Jeff Storm. After 100 laps of ASA racing at Elko Speedway it was Dan Fredrickson, Jacob Goede, Jon Eilen, Skylar Holzhausen, and Nate Haseleu…Bob Kosiske who won at La Crosse Interstate Speedway when it was a dirt track in 1959 will be in attendance at the Champions Reunion which is again part of the Oktoberfest Racing weekend at
La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, October 4-7. Steve Kosiski, his son and a great racer in his own right will be on hand as well…Interesting to note with all the advance on Excalibur Speedway of Tomah, WI., re-opening recently it now actually has! Mike Inglett is heading things up there and the track will race on Saturday nights while the weather holds out this fall. A special two day event with a $10,000 purse was slated for September 28-29. We’ll get you an update when we hear more about it…
Photos. Brent Kirchner winning the ASA Midwest Tour event at Iowa Speedway… The always exciting Danny Fredrickson wins at Elko Speedway…Pics from the past…Don “Thunder” Turner has competed in all the Oktoberfest Racing Weekends. This photo from the Jim Mussoni collection from 1971…Ramo Stott Drove this car in USAC competition in 1972 at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI.
As a prelude to Champions Reunion IV at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway Sunday October 7th from 11am – 2pm we look back to August 10th 1959 where it was Bob Kosiske winning the 100 lap Late Model Feature at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI. The event held during the Interstate Fair was witnessed by 3,400 fans. Kosiske drove a 1959 Ford Thunderbird #35 to the win…On August 10th, 1960 it was Ramo Stott driving a 1960 Ford convertible to the 25 lap Feature win in front of 2,000 fans at La Crosse Interstate Speedway… August 5th, 1963 found Dick Hutcherson winning both the afternoon and evening Feature races at the 7th Annual La Crosse Interstate Fair races. Hutcherson drove a 1963 Ford #3 to the wins…On August 8th, 1966 it was Ernie Derr racing a 1966 Dodge #1 to the 100 lap victory at La Crosse Interstate Speedway. Derr collected $490 for his efforts during the race program…
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
BY Dale P. Danielski
September 6, 2012
So now it’s down to one. There is just one more race program for Shawn Pfaff and Todd Korish to decide who is the 2012 NASCAR Late Model Champion at
La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI. I list Pfaff’s name first here as he is now after nearly the whole season of racing, the new point leader in the division having edged in front by two points over Korish after racing at the track Saturday, September 1. A better qualifying effort, and placing higher than Korish in the Dash/Heat race, along with the Feature have allowed Pfaff to erase a 10 point deficit and turn it into a lead heading into the Season finale October 4th as part of the Annual Oktoberfest Racing weekend.
After a full year of racing it comes down to the two dueling it out which is the way it should be. Brent Kirchner has a remote shot at the title in 3rd spot but realistically it will be the two battling for the Championship. Pfaff is going for his 3rd title while Korish is searching for his first. Of course accusations are flying that Kevin Nuttleman returning to the driver’s seat in a team Pfaff car served as a “pick” in the feature, slowing at the start of the event which allowed a clear path for Pfaff to quickly maneuver into 3rd place. Pfaff would eventually place 2nd while Korish ended up 5th which has provided the difference in the points battle and consequently some very colorful discussion. That’s all the more reason for fans to come out in October to catch the final. There may be sparks, there may be some bent metal and there more than likely will be fireworks before a Champion is crowned!
OK, so NASCAR gave it some thought for their top tier divisions awhile back. Formula 1 does it when they have to, but overall what group’s race in the rain?
La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway on August 25th got half or so of their show in before rain hit the speedway. With rain continuing to fall and little chance of getting the show in with dry conditions the question was posed to the Hornet drivers. “Would you race in the rain?” Most with big smiles on their faces answered “Yes!” And so they did. Kaleb Miller slipped and slid to the Feature win in the first 15 lapper while Davey Pennel blew away the field in the 2nd main for the little cars. Pennel even appeared faster racing in the wet than dry as he scorched the field coming from last position to win! I guess when you think about it these cars aren’t that ill equipped to race when wet as they all have a street type treaded tire. It works on the street and now we know can work on the race track as well!
Here and there…Shawn Pfaff had a banner night at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway Sept. 1. Besides taking over the points lead he also won the special showdown match race competition for NASCAR Late Models. Two drivers, Todd Korish and Brent Kirchner scheduled for that competition didn’t even make a lap as they suffered through some “issues” and pulled into the pit area…Almost lost in all the points chasing hoopla was past Champion J. Herbst winning his 4th Feature race of 2012. That leads all drivers at La Crosse Fairgrounds…Brandon Berg who is driving a backup car for Jerimy Wagner captured a heat race win this past Saturday night at the track. Berg is scheduled to shoot for NASCAR Late Model Rookie of the Year honors in 2013…Speaking of Rookies, Johnny Olson has already wrapped up that honor for 2012...You certainly don’t want to miss the ASA Midwest Tour event coming up Sept 13-14 at the Iowa Speedway of Newton, Iowa. This event is a must see every year as both drivers and fans get to experience the thrill of racing on a Super speedway here in the Midwest. 140 mph average speeds with the cars doing 170 or so on the straights would give anyone a thrill!
Photos. Pics from the past…Don Leach came up from Illinois frequently to race in Wisconsin. He raced this Chevelle in 1972. Dick Grave #45 was another Minnesota driver that raced often in Wisconsin. He raced this Chevy Nova in 1973. #21 Shawn Pfaff at the wheel and seeing very clearly the front of the pack…
Looking back on Tuesday, August 24th 1971 at La Crosse Interstate Speedway a special 100 lap Feature event was held, The Old Style Cup, with Tom Reffner taking the win. Jim Sauter, Dick Trickle, Jim Back, Rich Somers, Pete Mahlum, Jim Olson, Lyle Nabbefeldt and Larry Detjens followed in that order. The Semi-Feature went to Tom Jenson followed by Don Grant and Buddy Schroeder. Consolation race honors went to Dave Veglahn followed by Lad Huber and Bob Gavin. The Fast Dash went to Jim Back. Back to Friday racing on August 27th it was Marv Marzofka back in victory lane in the Feature followed by Jim Sauter and Larry Behrens. Semi-Feature honors went to Buck Linhart with the Consolation victor Ron Backburg. Heat race winners were Ron Sanders, Linhart and Don Grant. The fast Dash was won by Marzofka. It was the Pepsi Cup Season Championship held on September 3rd capped off with a 50 lap Feature. Marv Marzofka was the victor followed by Jim Sauter and Jim Back. Buck Linhart was the Semi-Feature winner with the Consolation going to Ron Backburg. Heat race winners were Denny Sobkowiak, John Scott and Sauter. The 5 Lap Dash went to Don James. Jim Sauter was crowned 1971 season champion in the late model division nosing out Marv Marzofka by just 7 points, 1523-1516. Oktoberfest Racing weekend was the final event at the track for 1971 with a two day show scheduled. Day one on Saturday night Oct.2nd found preliminary qualifying events held leading up to the big 200 lap Oktoberfest finale. Mike Murgic, Tom Reffner and Greg Delapp took those events with Dick Trickle setting the fastest time at 20:78. Trickle then took his 1969 Ford Torino to the 200 lap Feature victory grabbing the lead on lap 175 and holding on the rest of the way. Following Trickle were Marv Marzofka, Don Leach, Tom Reffner, Allan Ward, John Brevik, Dick Grave, Dick Schultz, Larry Behrens and Dan Prziborowski. Consolation race winner was Kenny Mann. And of course you don’t want to miss Oktoberfest 2012 style as the big season ending event is set for October 4-7th, 2012 at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI. Tons of race cars in numerous divisions, thousands of fans at campfires everywhere, plus all the stories and fun that goes with it is in a nutshell, Oktoberfest Racing weekend. This year marks the 43rd running of the storied and nationally known racing extravaganza… The Champions Reunion will again be a part of the Oktoberfest festivities held Sunday October 7th from 11am-2pm in the Hospitality Chalet at the East end of the main grandstand. This event provides a great opportunity for fans and drivers to get together and reminisce about the good old days of racing. A must see for sure! And this year as an added bonus to the event is the appearance by the Bob Kosiski replica Ford Thunderbird race car. Bob Raced and won at the Fairgrounds back in the 1950s and ‘60s when it was a ½ mile dirt track. It is hoped Bob himself can attend but it is certain his son Steve a very successful racer in his own right will…
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
BY Dale P. Danielski
August 23, 2012
“The water temperature was pegged and we had no brakes.” Sounds like words coming from a disgruntled driver at a races end that did not finish. In actuality it was Travis Sauter describing his car from victory lane after winning yet another high profile event, this time the ASA Midwest Tour Governor’s Cup 125 at the Elko Speedway of Elko, MN, August 18th.
Sauter has had a summer that most drivers only think about, winning some of the highest profile races held in the Midwest this year. He did it here again at Elko by passing Nathan Haseleu with 15 laps to go and stretching his lead at the finish. This win falls on the heels of his Tour win at Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI., August 5th. The way Sauter is winning these races is so reminiscent of how the great short tracker Bob Senneker did it back in the 1970s through the 1990s. Senneker would bide his time and let the other competitors wear out their equipment before striking late and taking another victory. On nearly every occasion, Sauter has patiently weeded his way through the field, waited for the right moment, and pounced on his competition to take another late race win. According to Sauter this was also his first big win outside the State of Wisconsin. “I’d like to thank my sponsors for helping me this year and one of them, Don Fowler of Don’s Truck & Auto is here so hopefully that means we can drink some beers tonight.” A little celebrating Wisconsin style in Minnesota from the Sauter racing group as they win another big asphalt short track event!
Here and there… Minnesota racer, Nick Barstad made his ASA Midwest Tour debut at Elko and raced to a very respectable 11th place Feature finish. The team is testing the water on the Tour this year and hopes to race for Rookie of the Year in 2013…Another Minnesota driver in the spotlight all night was Nick Panitzke who raced up front the entire way before finishing 7th. The team had taken some time off the Tour and it appears it paid off as they came back strong here at Elko tonight…It is definitely a “Long shot” in this case. We’re talking about Eric Long who has participated at all the ASA Midwest Tour events in 2012. Graduating from a Slinger Super Speedway, (Slinger, WI.) 4 cylinder race car to a full blown Super Late Model on the tough ASA Tour has been difficult for the Wisconsin driver to say the least. “We’ve made progress and I see improvement but I know I have a long way to go.” Amazingly, Long who is on the track trying to log laps and get seat time is in the top 15 in ASA Tour points with three races to go…Well the younger set continues to impress at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway as Cole Howland raced to his second NASCAR Late Model win of the season here August 11th. Howland held off 2011 Division Champion J. Herbst, Todd Korish. Shawn Pfaff and Steve Carlson for his 2nd career victory…Good to See Late Model competitor Steve Owen in victory lane tonight after winning the 2nd heat. Owen has not necessarily by his own doing been in the wrong place at the wrong time racing at the speedway this year on too many occasions, but finally the teams efforts paid off with a trip to the winners circle…Female racer and daughter of Shawn Pfaff Jacinda Pfaff made it to victory lane as well tonight winning a Thunderstox Division heat race…Jerry Aylesworth kept his undefeated streak alive in the Outlawz Division winning another Feature event tonight. No one has gone undefeated an entire season so can Aylesworth do it even when competition gets stiffer at the season ending Oktoberfest racing weekend event? Thor Anderson has been an infrequent visitor to the ASA Midwest Tour this year due to the fact the team has a chance to win the Late Model Championship at Hawkeye Downs Speedway of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. “We weren’t planning on racing the whole season at Hawkeye Downs but after winning a couple races there we were near the top in the point standings so we decided to try and win it.” Anderson is in great position to do just that as he is leading the points with just a couple events remaining…
Photos. Travis Sauter #5 picked up another big win this time in the ASA Midwest Tour event at Madison International Speedway August 5th. Pics from the past…Minnesota driver Don James raced in Wisconsin a lot through the years. This car was raced during the 1974 season. John Brevik raced and won frequently during the ‘60s and ‘70s. He raced this car on the Wisconsin circuit in 1972. (Photo from the Jim Muzzoni collection.)
Looking back on Friday, August 6th 1971 at La Crosse Interstate Speedway it was Minnesota driver Don James #76 taking the 20 lap Feature win. James was followed by #55s Lyle Nabbefeldt and #61 Jim Back. The 15 lap Semi-Feature went to #58 Buck Linhart followed by #2 Dale Pennel and #83 Dale Walworth. Heat race wins went to #6 Ed Nichols, #40 John Scott and #15 Rich Somers. James also won the 5 lap dash. August 13th racing was rained out and rescheduled for Sunday August 15th. The 20 lap Feature winner on that day was #99 Dick Trickle followed by #5 Dick Giles and #85 Dan Prziborowski. The 15 lap Semi-Feature went to #40 John Scott followed by #7-11 John Brevik and #28 Denny Sobkowiak. Heat race victors were #66 Curt Iverson, Brevik and Giles. The 5 lap Trophy Dash went to Prziborowski. August 20th action found Larry Detjens #43 in a 1967 Plymouth Satellite taking the Feature win followed by Roy Schmidtke #76 and Marv Marzofka #91. The Semi-Feature went to Dale Walworth #83 followed by #7 Don Turner and #1 Ron Backberg. Heat race winners were #58 Buck Linhart, #83 Dale Walworth and Schmidtke. The 5 lap Dash went to #76 Don James…
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
BY Dale P. Danielski
August 9, 2012
There is definitely a difference when drivers are racing for points and championships rather than just wins. We know this after discussing the topic with two drivers who are leading points, Todd Korish in the NASCAR Late Model Division at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway and Jon Eilen who leads the ASA Midwest Tour standings.
Korish has led the standings at La Crosse Fairgrounds in 2012 practically from the beginning of the year. And with that comes an adjustment in driving style. According to Korish, “I’d like to race for Feature wins but when you are going for a championship its top 5s, top 5s and top 5 finishes you need. I could have won races this year but I always have to think about the big picture. A couple times I could have put the bumper to drivers to get a win but I can’t because then I might not finish at all.” And, according to Korish it’s his competitors that control his destiny. “They’ve got me right where they want me. They know I can’t race aggressively and risk getting in a wreck. Even tougher for Korish is the fact his teammate Adam Degenhardt has a Feature win this year. “Sure I’d like to win, but I’ve won Features before, I know what that’s like. I committed myself to winning the track championship at the end of the season last year after losing out, so that’s how I have to race, top 5s, top 5s.” Of course adding to the championship drama but something Korish feels he has a handle on, is having to finish out the points season nearly a month after the last September show with racing at Oktoberfest. “It’s tough having to wait. And I know those guys (Points contenders) are going to get all nutted up and change their cars all around (Like I did last year) for that last race. I’ll leave mine the same and know what I’ve goy going into that race.” And believe it or not the consistency for Korish could actually result in a rather odd statistical record. “If I go the whole year without winning a Feature and win the championship I’d be the first ever here to do that.” Not the most enviable record but one nonetheless for Mr. Consistency.
Jon Eilen has led the ASA Tour standings for most of the season and feels the same type pressure. “Earlier in the year I’d race more aggressively for the win. But now that I’m leading the points and have a chance at the Championship I have to race different. At Grundy (Morris, IL.,) I could have won that race if I would have pushed a little harder. I could have passed Eddie Hoffman (Who ultimately won the race) but we might also have wrecked and not finished. You have to finish all the races to win these championships.” Fortunately for Eilen while still in his more aggressive role earlier in the year he did pick off a Tour win.
From a fans perspective, points racing is pretty boring. Most want to see their driver go for the win and so be it if he or she spins or wrecks trying. But they also for the most part understand the importance of finishing to potentially win a championship as the prestige and pay-off at the end of the year makes it well worth it. Case in point in NASCAR Cup competition where Matt Kenseth won a championship with one win and a lot of ho-hum finishes which resulted in Cup officials overhauling the entire points system to try and create more competition. They are still working on coming up with that formula by the way.
So with both these points chases close for the respective drivers we will keep close tabs and see how it all shakes out when both championships are decided at the Annual Oktoberfest racing weekend at La Crosse Fairgrounds October 4-7.
Here and there…J. Herbst took his 3rd NASCAR Late Model Feature win here at La Crosse Fairgrounds July 28th. He was followed by Mike Carlson and Brad Powell. Even with numerous wins Herbst has a very slim to none chance to win his 3rd title in four years at the track this year…Interesting to note that Dad Steve Carlson won the 2nd Late Model heat over his son, a chip off the old block, Mike…Troy Tuma was a happy guy after the 1st late Model heat at Lax as he won it! For Tuma it was his first ever LM type car win…Rick Schermerhorn after literally tearing the rear end out of his car the week before during time trials came back strong to win the Sportsman Feature July 28 at Lax. According to Schermerhorn, “It took a lot of cold pizza and beer but we got it back together and here we are in victory lane!” .. We see where La Crosse regular (When he hasn’t won a championship and has to take a year off) Danny Gilster picked up a Feature win at the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., July 27th. The win came in the Super stock division and was over Brian Weinfurter…August 4th racing at La Crosse found Steve Carlson back in victory lane after 25 laps of NASCAR Late Model racing. He was followed by Shawn Pfaff, Brad Powell, J. Herbst and you guessed it, Todd Korish in 5th…Steve Bachman set fast time in the Sportsman division for the first time ever. He proved it was no fluke by coming back to win the 15 lap Feature race…Jordan Myers blew away his competition in the Thunderstox main and in the fabulous trailer race of destruction it was Dakota Miller by popular fan vote the winner…Sorry to hear of the passing of Sportsman Division racer Rich Blackdeer this past week. Saw Rich win many a races in his orange Ford Products through the years…
Photos. Points chaser #32 Todd Korish. Fellow points Championship chaser Jon Eilen in the #77. Steve Carlson #66 picked up his 2nd win of 2012. Pics from the past…Marv Marzofka races his battle scarred Ford Torino to another win in 1971. Dick Trickle won 56 Feature events in 1971 in his Ford Torino.
Looking back on Friday night, July 21st 1971 it was the beginning of the Annual Interstate Fair and a 50 lap Feature was held to commemorate the occasion. Taking the win on the night was Marv Marzofka with Rich Somers and Jim Sauter following. The 15 lap Semi-Feature was won by Greg Delapp with Don Grant and Fred Beckler following. Heat race wins went to Beckler, Warren Droesser, and Larry Behrens with Behrens also winning the Trophy Dash. Friday night July 23rd found the running of the Interstate Fair 100 featuring a 100 lap Feature for Late Model Drivers. Larry Behrens took that huge win and was followed by Ron Beyer and Don Turner. The Semi-Feature went to Curt Iverson. Heat race victors were Fred Beckler, Ralph Bakewell and Behrens. Marv Marzofka won the 5 lap Trophy Dash. On Friday July 30th, Jim Sauter got back into victory lane taking the 20 lap Feature event. Sauter was followed to the stripe by Marv Marzofka and Jim Back. Fred Beckler won the Semi-Feature with heat race wins going to Buck Linhart, Behrens and Sauter. Sauter also captured the 5 lap Trophy Dash making it a three win night.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
July 26, 2012
With the popularity of our last effort pertaining to the derivation of race car numbers (No death threats, no one throwing things at me) we’re going to go down a similar path with this effort and talk about names of race cars, cartoon characters in racing and driver nicknames. I’ve delved a bit in the past on this subject but with a staying closer to home attitude for attending races this summer I was sitting in my lawn chair and all these names started popping into my head. It’s quite interesting actually so here we go!
I can remember in my earliest days of race attending mostly in Central Wisconsin, drivers having cartoon or comic strip characters on their cars. Back when there was little or no fear of lawsuits and more room was available on race car panels due to sponsorship being more of a luxury than necessity, numerous drivers would paint the character in plain view on their race car. Ron Beyer who had a fairly successful career racing in Wisconsin had Snaggle Puss on the side of his Chevy. Madison WI., area racer Duane Walch had Snoopy on the side of his car. What would grace the side of the car didn’t necessarily have to be from a comic either as Marv Marzofka and Ev Fox each had a moose head painted in plain view on the side of their yellow race cars. Moose Peterson a car dealership business owner sponsored the race team so it made sense to display a Moose on the cars as they raced throughout Wisconsin. La Crosse, WI., area race driver Ken Christenson Sr., when teamed up with Gerald Goldbeck built a car they nicknamed Lil Stinker. The fact it was painted to look similar to a skunk probably had something to do with that. Of course those that remember Christenson barnstorming throughout the State recall his nickname of “Babe”.
Attaching a name to a race car was also fairly common back in the day. Tom Reffner called his 1969 Mercury Comet the Mercury Mind Stomper. A Jim Back Ford was the “Avenger”. One of Rich Somers’ earlier model race cars had the name “Lil Thumper” painted on the hood. Of course later on Somers when purchasing a new Ford Mustang race car became known as the “Thunder Pony”. Dick Trickle was a fan of the TV program Gunsmoke so he named two of his race cars “Miss Kitty” and “Festus”. Reffner later on labeled one of his cars The Tachyon. Another model became Tachyon II. Look that one up once and see just what it is! Of course those who were following the racing scene in the ‘70s and 80s remember the Super America convenience store chain sponsored Knights. Dick Trickle was originally the Purple Knight but later became the White Knight and was teamed up with Reffner the Blue Knight and John Boegeman the Black Knight. What marketing genius that turned out to be for that time period as no one was seeing that kind of sponsor backing and certainly not from a retail type business rather then one with a product directly related to racing.
Driver nicknames were extremely popular in racing and most of the time were a result of race track announcers attempting to create excitement and identity for the fans. It worked as the drivers became recognizable whenever and wherever they raced. In their earliest days of racing Jim Back and Tom Reffner teamed up and went by the names Jimbo and Tombo. That time period also produced the “Ridgerunner” Marv Marzofka. Due to his being partial to the color yellow Marzofka later became the “Screaming Yellow Zonker” which was also a popular candy at that time.
Some others included Marlin “Shoes” Walbeck, Lyle “The Throttle Popper” Nabbefeldt, Ronnie “The Weasel” Beyer, Tony “The Tiger” Strupp, Don “Peaches” Leach, Ed “Gunner” Walkush, Mark “Cub” Rezin, Lavern “Bucky” Linhart, Bill “Mr. Clean” Gerrits, Harold “Fluff” Furo and Denny “The Patriotic Polak” Sobkowiak. Out of state drivers would often head to Wisconsin to do battle and they too had home state nicknames. Michigan’s Ed “The Green Hornet” Howe was one who ventured over on numerous occasions. Bob Jusola, “The Flying Finn” of Minnesota was another. Tom Jones who had a great amount of success racing in Illinois held his own in Wisconsin becoming known as the “0 Hero” since his car numbers were always 0. Of course with the Knights of Superamerica prolific winners during that era there were those who tried to beat them when they could. Southern Wisconsin racer John Ziegler was able on occasion to do just that and he did it as “The Knight Stalker” Jim Back spent all day and most of the night trying to come up with ways to beat the Knights team and consequently he became known as “The All Night”. There may have been other reasons that name was attached to the popular driver and if you were there you know what we are talking about!
Although we mostly followed the pavement group racer we noticed nicknames weren’t uncommon in the dirt World either as we’d catch some of those shows in various parts of the State. We remember “The Racing Farmer” Roger Paul a huge favorite racing in North Eastern Wisconsin. There was the always controversial Roger “The Bear” Regeth. That name definitely fit Regeth in both stature and in his racing style! There was J.J “Tweety Bird” Smith another big winner in that part of the State. Jerry “Medina” Smith won a ton of dirt races and the name Medina was actually his hometown which differentiated him from J.J. Smith who was also named Jerry. Dave “The Outlaw” Conger raced and one on the dirt against the aforementioned group of drivers. Lyle “Pappy” Diemel was another. One name that really stood out back in the ‘70s was a driver who raced mostly on the Central Wisconsin dirt tracks such as the Colby and Rangeline Speedways. Hilarian “Hurricane” Michlig was just that, racing and winning for a number of years.
Of course some nicknames were earned rather than just attached to a driver. We remember sipping a brew with Rusty Wallace in the big beer tent at the Minnesota State Fair back when Rusty was competing in the USAC stock car division and talking about one such instance. Wallace and Joe Ruttman had quite the rivalry going then and Rusty saw fit to nickname Ruttman “Chopper Joe Ruttman” as a result of a certain driving style Wallace thought Ruttman inflicted on him while racing on the Milwaukee Mile. And then there was the “Swamp Fox” nickname. Does anyone remember who that was? You shouldn’t as the name was given to this scribe by his older brother when I was racing at State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI., and decided to drive off the end of the back straight away and into the pond there. I guess I looked like a swamp fox, a slightly drenched and very embarrassed one at that!.
Even though we don’t see it like we used to announcers still do come up with attention getting names for race drivers. Dan Deicher does this at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway as each and every week we get to see “Armageddon” Adam Degenhardt, “Mr. Consistency” Todd Korish, “The Bloomington Bandit” Mark Lamoreaux, “The Mid-Pack Legend” Bill Niles, and “The Honey Badger” Brent Kirchner go at it tooth and nail in racing competition. It still creates interest and excitement today and there’s certainly nothing wrong with that!
Here and there…Speaking of the Honey Badger, Brent Kirchner took the feature win here July 14th in the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway…And it was Armageddon Adam Degenhardt picking up his first NASCAR Late Model win of the season as he took the 2nd 20 lap Feature July 21st at Lax. Cole Howland passed 2011 Late Model Champion J. Herbst to capture the victory in the first 20 lapper. It sure is good to see some different names in victory lane than what is usually the case as that is what keeps these guys going week after week…And speaking of winning Craig Kohlmeier picked up his first ever Late Model win by taking the 1st Late Model heat at Lax July 14th. Kohlmeier is subbing for car owner Curt Eckleberg who had his finger nearly totally severed while working in the fan area of his race car earlier this year. Eckleberg was able to have the finger re-attached but is out for the year. Sadly, the high the team was on after winning only lasted a week as Kohlmeier was involved in a wreck at the track July 21st which badly damaged their race car…Rick Schermerhorn turned the quickest lap in the Sportsman Division July 21st at Lax. That was the good news. On his cool down lap the differential of the car came completely out, forcing Schermerhorn into the wall and out for the night. According to Schermerhorn, “This is too good of a car for something like this to happen. We’ll get it fixed and be back out. Hopefully when we do it will be as fast as it has been.”…
Photos. Cole Howland #1 was very impressive in picking up a 20 lap Feature win July 21st. Craig Kohlmeier won his first ever Late Model race July 14th. Pics from the past…Both Larry #57 and Jim Anderson #56 raced back in the day. Photo from Griffith Park Speedway just outside Wisconsin Rapids, WI., #3 Ron Beyer and Snaggle Pus, #91 Marv Marzofka Moose Peterson car.
Looking back on Friday night, July 9th, 1971, it was the Necedah, WI., flyer himself Jim Sauter winning another Feature race at La Crosse Interstate Speedway. In order behind Sauter after 20 laps were Rich Somers and Larry Behrens. The Semi-Feature win went to Bud Schroeder #78 in a 1963 Ford followed by Pete Mahlum #1 and John Scott #40. Heat race winners were Warren Droesser #77 Scott, and Sauter #5. Sauter also captured the Trophy Dash making it a three win night. The July 13th racing at the Speedway was part of Fair week with the Farm Progress Days 50 being held. Tom Reffner #88, captured the 50 lap Feature event and was followed by Marv Marzofka #91 and Jim Sauter #5. Semi-Feature honors went to #78 Bud Schroeder with #13 Don Grant and #41 Greg Delapp following. Heat race victors were Delapp, #8 Larry Ravenscroff, and #99 Dick Trickle in his 1969 Ford Torino. The Fast Dash went to #61 Jim Back and Fast time honors with a new track record went to Trickle at 20:74 seconds. July 16th racing action found Marv Marzofka taking the 20 lap Feature followed by Larry Behrens and #57 Larry Anderson. The Semi-Feature went to Don Grant followed by #36 Fred Beckler and Greg Delapp. Heat race victors included Beckler, #8 Lyle Nabbefeldt and Anderson. The Trophy Dash was one by #15 Rich Somers.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
BY
Dale P. Danielski
July 12, 2012
So what’s in a number? When it’s placed on the side of a race car usually a pretty interesting story!
In a somewhat random selection process we decided to find out from numerous drivers how they arrived upon the numbers chosen for their race cars. Keep in mind we are dealing with racers and tight racing budget economics here and it’s all in fun with nothing to be taken too personal!
Starting out with NASCAR Late Model drivers at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway we find a number of different reasons for the numbers. With Brent Kirchner it was his dad racing. “My Dad raced with that number and since I always liked the #8 I stuck with it.” According to Rookie late Model competitor John Olson it evolved from another team. “I pitted for Kevin Eddy when he was racing and he was the #41. He went on to race in a different division so when I started I decided to keep the number.” Shawn Pfaff basically inherited the #21 that he currently races with. “The #21 came from the Ron Schendel #21 Citgo sponsored car. I’ve stayed with that number ever since.” Steve Carlson’s choice was due to a similar instance. “I had Phillips 66 Trop Arctic sponsor me so the #66 was the number for the race car. I’ve stuck with that ever since.” In Todd Korish’s case it was following the efforts of Dale Jarrett racing #32 in the then NASCAR Busch Series. “I liked that team so when I decided to start racing that was the number I took.” For Brad Powell who raced with #23 for years and still does with one of his race cars, it’s definitely about economics. “The numbers to go on the car after Mike Belling quit racing (#43) were free so I needed to change.” For J. Herbst it was a matter of not being able to get the #28 which he used racing Thunderstox. “When I moved up to Late Model I couldn’t get the #28 because Paul Proksch had it so I just switched them around. Plus my friends who had shirts with that number were too cheap to get new ones made up so I just kept it!” The Speedway back in 1985 had a house car all decked out like a squad car painted black and white and equipped with a big red cherry ball strobe on top. According to Bill Niles, “I had a chance to drive that car and ever since than and all the while I’ve been racing I’ve stayed with the #54 and the police car theme.” For Sportsman driver Matt Inglett in a familiar pattern he went with a flip flop of his Dad’s car number. “My Dad raced the #72 so I just switched mine around to be #27. Plus, my birthday is on the 27th so it worked out” Sportsman racer Greg Scheck gets a lot of help from Mike Niles who raced with the #2 on his cars. Consequently Scheck has gone to that number and adds, “It’s cheaper (Being one digit instead of two) than the #22 I used to race with.” Jake Arneson another driver in that division says, “#3 is a lucky number, #7 is a lucky number so that’s what I have for the number on my race car!” For Thunderstox racer Tom Luethe it was a bit different scenario. “The #50 was the number on my jersey my sophomore year playing football in high school so I just stuck with that for my race car.” Jason Bolster goes back to high school as well for his Thunderstox division race car number. ‘I graduated in 1988 so when I raced at the Tomah track I used that on my race car. I couldn’t get that number racing here at La Crosse, someone else had it, so I just shortened it to #8.” ASA Midwest Touring Star driver Jon Eilen didn’t like the number he originally raced with so a change was made to his current #77. “When my brother and I were racing we had the numbers #2 and 69. Neither one of us liked those numbers but we liked the #77 which was on one of our fleet of trucks so we went with that.” With the multi-generational racing Holzhausen family it’s a number passed down with a twist or two here and there. According to Steve Holzhausen the #78 was used by his Dad Bud so he just kept it when he started racing. Brothers Greg and Brian also both raced but since #78 was taken by Steve, they went with #87 and #787 respectively. Steve’s son Skylar is now using the #78 in ASA Midwest Tour competition. Of course Steve still races and might put up a fuss over who gets the number but when he competes it’s usually with the #97 which is what car owner Pete Kempf’s prefers. Of course purple is a huge part of Holzhausen racing lore but colors of race cars will have to be future fodder for a column here in MRC. Here and there…The Big 8 Series paid a visit to La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway here Tuesday, July 3 and it was Casey Johnson taking the 48 lap feature. It was the 5th different winner in the Series in 5 races this year showing just how competitive that group of drivers is…A number of La Crosse NASCAR Late Model regulars competed in the race with Steve Carlson’s 3rd place finish the best of the bunch. Todd Korish placed 6th, Matt Henderson 14th, J. Herbst 18th, and Shawn Pfaff 21st respectively…And back to NASCAR Late Model racing at Lax July 7th it was Brad Powell who “spanked the field”cruising to the 25 lap Feature win. It was a good night for Henderson Racing as Powell was driving Matt Henderson’s back up car while Matt also drove to a second place finish behind Powell in the Feature…Good to See Mark Challet get a heat race win in the Sportsman Division Saturday night and also follow it up with a Feature victory in the Thunderstox Division. The Challets’ are the epitome of the low buck racer and it’s nice to see teams like this rewarded with a win now and then…
Photos. J. Herbst races to the NASCAR Late Model Feature win at La Crosse Fairgrounds June 30th. Casey Johnson wins the Big 8 Series race at La Crosse. Mark Challet #13 took a heat race win July 7th at La Crosse Fairgrounds.
Pics from the past…Roy Schmidtke #76 racing in 1971.
Looking back on Friday night, June 18th, 1971, it was Minnesota traveler, Larry Behrens in his #99 taking the 20 lap Feature win at La Crosse Interstate Speedway. Jim Sauter was 2nd with Marv Marzofka 3rd. The Semi-Feature win went to #40 John Scott with heat race victors Scott, Lyle Nabbefeldt and Marzofka. Roy Schmidtke #76 won the Dash. June 25th at the speedway found Jim Sauter back in the Feature event victory lane followed by Marzofka and Behrens. The Semi-Feature went to Pete Mahlum with Don Grant #13 and Warren Droesser #77 trailing. Heat race wins went to #55 Homer Spink, Mahlum and Sauter with the Dash win going to Behrens. Rich Somers found his way to the 20 lap Feature win July 2nd at the track followed by Marzofka and #76 Don James another Minnesota traveler. The Semi-Feature went to Warren Droesser with heat wins going to #66 Curt Iverson in a 1960 Ford Galaxie, Mahlum and Marzofka. Marzofka also captured the Fast Dash win.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES AND OPINIONS
By
Dale P. Danielski
June 28, 2012
You could say “Well it’s about time” (No, not that Jr. Earnhardt won a Cup race.) as we finally took in our first dirt track racing action at Mississippi Thunder Speedway here Friday June 15th. Although partial to pavement since that’s my upbringing in racing we can definitely appreciate some good three wide, side by side mud-slinging from time to time. That’s exactly what’s going on at the Bob Timm promoted MTS and they were at their sideways best on this occasion.
But before you see any action at the track upon arriving at the facility you will see the continued improvements being made. The track used to be practically concealed with trees bordering everything but the front stretch, which is no longer the case. All the trees including those on the backstretch have been removed with the pit area now extending to that point. With a number of huge car count special events being held at the track the change will indeed make it easier for teams to find a spot to park their rigs. And, a facility is only as good as it’s racetrack and the reasonably new clay surface is now settling with a tacky, fast track with little dust now the norm rather than the exception.
I’ve been known to be pretty critical of programs that drag on and MTS has had that problem the last year or so. Not so anymore as cars were lined up and ready to go for each race and yellow flag clean up was fast and efficient. A show over with by 10:00pm is perfect and MTS accomplished that on this night. They’ve actually been that efficient for quite some time now and that will undoubtedly put more butts in the seats.
Another area I tend to have disdain for are divisions of racing that all look the same. At Mississippi Thunder the 600 Modifieds are anything but look a likes to the racing in this area. They are actually mini-versions of East Coast Dirt Modifieds which I have, and still think are one of the coolest appearing divisions anywhere. The 600 group are no slouches on the racetrack either as they really get up and go around the 3/8 mile clay oval.
In other racing action it was Touring star Kelly Shryock paying a visit to the track and promptly walking away with the bulk of the loot in the modified division. What looked like a relatively easy win for Shryock proved to be anything but at the end as Lucas Schott utilizing some lapped traffic got within a car length at the finish only to come up a bit short. Bob Timm, Brad Waits and John Doelle rounded out the top five finishers.
Here and there…We had mentioned in our last effort Brent Kirchner attempting to qualify for the ASA Midwest Tour event at the Milwaukee Mile. Out of the over 70 cars to take time Kirchner, considering he’s never competed in this Series before, qualified a pretty amazing 2nd. Such notables and major event winners Scott Wimmer, Kelly Bires, Tim Schendel and Ross Kenseth didn’t even make the race let alone qualify that well! The effort was no fluke either as he backed it up with a solid 5th place finish in the 150 lap main event. Kirchner plans to race at least twice more in the Series, at Iowa Speedway and during Oktoberfest at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Of course if you hadn’t heard it was Travis Sauter winning the race which is another huge feather in his cap as he is developing a knack for winning bigger, high profile events in the last couple years…Todd Korish is really frustrated with the way his race car is handling, he’s leading the NASCAR Late Model points at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Defending Champion J. Herbst has one of the, if not the fastest NASCAR late model at the track this year and he finds himself 5th in the points and facing major repairs on his wrecked car. It was all a result of yellow flag fever at the track this past Saturday night June 23rd as all divisions of racing suffered through caution flag waving wrecks and carnage. It seems if the accidents start happening early in a program it just sets the tone for the rest of the racing night. That was the case here as the Hornet division started the evening off with numerous over exuberant drivers deciding to drive through rather than around each other. One driver that managed to miss all the projectiles was Harley Jankowski who benefited from the wrecks to take his first career NASCAR Late Model Feature. Korish took his ill handling mount to a second place finish and moved into the point lead. Herbst who was in the midst of taking the lead from John Olson in the Feature with just 5 laps to go unfortunately got caught up in an Olson who was looking for his first career NASCAR Feature win, Bob Manske, (Lapped car) and himself mess which sent Herbst and Olson into the wall and Manske spinning. Brent Kirchner who led the points going into the night was involved in two incidents which led to his finishing a lap behind the leaders in the main. He’s now 3rd in the point rankings. One thing is for sure folks will be coming out in big numbers next week to see what will happen next!
Photos. Todd Korish #32 is leading the NASCAR Late Model point standings at
La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway.
Pics from the past…From the Jim Mussoni photo collection, #1 Pete Mahlum in his Chevelle. #41 Bruce Sparrman racing in 1974.
Looking back on Friday night, June 11th, 1971, it was Marv Marzofka taking another Feature win at La Crosse Interstate Speedway. Dale Walworth took the Semi-Feature with heat race wins going to Lyle Nabbefeldt in his 1957 Chevy and Larry Behrens in a 1969 Chevelle. The Trophy Dash winner was Bruce Sparrman in a 1971 Chevy Monte Carlo. And in a special Sunday afternoon show at the track June 13th it was Dick Trickle taking the 20 lap Feature win followed by Tom Reffner, Dick Schultz, Jim Back and Bruce Sparrman driving the 7Up numbered machine. The 12 lap
Semi-Feature went to Pete Mahlum with Lyle Nabbefeldt and John Scott trailing. Heat race wins went to Mahlum and Trickle with Reffner taking the Trophy Dash. Fast qualifier for the day was Back at 21:40 seconds around the 5/8 mile paved oval.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
June 14, 2012
They were back at it at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway Saturday June 2 and on this night the Mid-American Stock Car Series was added to the regular three division program of racing.
It’s always fun to watch the Mid-American group as they bring good fields of cars (On this night 21 cars) are ultra competitive, which means you never know who is going to win. Besides that the cars are very unique in appearance to anything else competing and that’s refreshing in our cookie cutter, all cars look alike racing scene. On this night James Swan took the 35 lap Feature win over Ryan Farrell and Brad Keith.
Of course the Saturday night regulars didn’t disappoint putting on a very competitive close to the finish night of racing. At the end of the night’s headliner, the NASCAR Late Model Feature it was Brent Kirchner taking his first main event of 2012. He had to hold off a fast closing J. Herbst to do it with Matt Henderson, Brad Powell and Mike Carlson trailing.
Perennial fast qualifier Randy Humfeld broke through for the 15 lap Sportsman Feature win with the always exciting Rick Schermerhorn 2nd and Jake Arneson 3rd.
Thunderstox racing was intense and ultimately wreck filled with Adam Moore surviving the carnage to take that divisions main.
Matt Henderson appeared to be in position to win his first NASCAR Late Model Feature of the year at Lax. June 2nd when a caution waved changing everything. According to Don Henderson they have had fast cars but just can’t finish. “We’ve had Jeff Gordon luck this year. We have a fast car and something always happens where we can’t finish.” The caution and resulting scuffle at the front of the field took Matt Henderson from 1st to 4th on the restart. ‘I think we would have had this one if not for that caution” a frustrated Matt Henderson stated. The season is long and as with Jeff Gordon in Cup the team is looking to turn things around.
Mike Koenecke made his NASCAR late Model debut at Lax. June 2nd. Koenecke plans to run a limited schedule at the track this year. “I tried to sell the car this past year but didn’t so it just sat last season. I had some people approach me (Company sponsorship) to race it so here we are. I like to race but I don’t have to be out here every week. There are other things I’ll be doing some weekends so we’ll be out here ½ dozen times or so.” According to Koeneke if he still has his car at the end of the season his son may be the next to race it. “He’s really interested in racing so I may get him more involved.”
Here and there…Good to see Dan Gilster at Lax. Fairgrounds June 2nd, but wait, as defending Champion in the Sportsman Division he can’t race the Sportsman car he had in the pit area. However, with some modifications and 100 lbs of weight added he fit the rules for the Mid-Am Series racing on the night. Gilster accounted for himself very well nearly taking the lead in the main before settling for 4th place at the finish…Long time Lax. Fairgrounds participant Tom Thill plans to make his 2012 NASCAR Late Model debut in a couple weeks. “I bought a car from Paul Proksch and we just got the motor (John Scott built, there’s that name again) done so we should be ready in a couple weeks.”…Albert Locy plans to make his debut in the division here shortly as well…By the time you read this Brent Kirchner could well have competed in the ASA Midwest Tour event at the Milwaukee Mile June 12th. Kirchner purchased a car for three Tour races this year with the Mile first on the schedule. When asked about the number of entries and getting into the show there Kirchner replied, “The car will be ready, it’s up to me to get it into the race.”…Brad Powell made it two NASCAR Late Model Feature wins as he took the 25 lap headliner at La Crosse Fairgrounds June 9. Steve Carlson took a close 2nd with Shawn Pfaff, Matt Henderson and Brent Kirchner rounding out the top 5…Aaron Hass drove his bright yellow car to the Sportsman 15 lap Main event holding off Greg Scheck and Jake Arneson for the win…A last lap skirmish which sent Adam Moore and Dakota Miller to the pits allowed Nathan White to take the victory in the Thunderstox 15 lap Feature. Third position on the white flag was the right place to be and White went on to win his first Feature ever in the Division…In one of the more amusing moments of the night racing Justin Berg and Jamie Dummer got so wrapped up in their heat race they didn’t realize the event was over! They continued on racing hard after the checkered flag waved before realizing the race was done. Berg edged out Dummer for the win but had the extra lap they ran counted it would have been Dummer first. Flagman Greg Oliver could only shake his head after watching the two…It was good to see Bill Niles back in victory lane as he took the 1st NASCAR Late Model heat race win. Niles is in his 32nd year of racing and we believe he’s good for at least 32 more!...
Photos. The #33 of Matt Henderson almost got his first Feature win of 2012 season at Lax. Fairgrounds…Almost. #8 Brent Kirchner found victory lane for the first time June 2nd at Lax. Fairgrounds. Ironically, Kirchner scored the Feature win on this date at the track last year as well…#19 Mike Koeneke made his 2012 NASCAR Late Model debut at La Crosse Fairgrounds June 2nd.
Pics from the past…1971 #83 Dale Walworth Ford Torino.
Looking back on Friday night, May 28th 1971, it was Marv Marzofka breaking the Jim Sauter win streak at three taking the 20 lap Feature win. Following Marzofka at the stripe was Sauter. The Semi-Feature and 1st heat went to Ed Nichols with Dale Walworth taking the 2nd and Marzoka making it two wins on the night by winning the 3rd. The Trophy Dash went to Rich Somers. And on June 4th at the speedway it was Jim Sauter back in victory lane taking the 20 lap Feature. Rich Somers followed in 2nd with Larry Detjens in a 1967 Dodge Coronet 3rd and Marzofka 4th. The Semi-Feature went to Larry Behrens with heat races being garnered by Hellis Grorud, and Somers. The Trophy Dash went to Larry Anderson.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
May 31, 2012
It’s always nice to visit with someone that remembers racing, other than me of course, from years gone by. It’s also pretty cool if that individual is still involved in the sport as I am, as we may actually at that point have something in common! One such individual is John Scott who raced for many years in Southwest Wisconsin and remains a fixture there as an engine builder for many teams that compete at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway.
Scott got his start in racing back in the early ‘60s racing in the La Crosse area. He built the engines for his own race cars and competed on paved tracks but also raced at La Crosse Fairgrounds before it was paved and at the North La Crosse Speed bowl both as a dirt and paved track. With the driving part of his career ending in 1975 Scott decided to concentrate just on building engines for racing competition. According to Scott, “I always liked engines, I liked the challenge of getting them to work.” The challenge of getting them to work exists today as Scott’s engines are represented in numerous divisions at La Crosse Fairgrounds. “I probably have 40 engines out here. From Late Models to Sportsman on down to Thunderstox.” When asked how he gets them built and ready for each racing season Scott says, “I have to start right after Oktoberfest and work through the winter and spring to get done.” And with different race cars as you would expect not all engines are the same. “If a guy wants a certain engine I’ll build it how he wants. But they aren’t all the same. There’s a whole lot of variety of combinations guys can go with. Here at La Crosse in the Sportsman Division the horsepower range is between 330 to 350. In the Late Model Division it’s 380 to 400, maybe a little more now that they can run headers. There are just a lot of things you can do depending on what the driver wants.” With the experience Scott has there’s also been a fair amount of success with those racing with his engines. “At one point I had 6-8 weeks in a row where I had a Feature winner in one or even a couple divisions racing out here each night.” Scott has also had championship seasons with drivers using his engines with Brad Powell and Dan Gilster just a couple that have accomplished the feat. When asked how long he wants to continue in the sport Scott says, “I’ll do engine building until I can’t anymore. I worked as a tool and die maker but am retired now. Actually engine building is more of a hobby for me. I’m collecting Social Security in retirement but I build engines to keep me from going nuts sitting in my chair looking at the walls.” And, at 71 years of age no one would blame Scott if he gave it up but watching him briskly walking from team to team helping them out in the pit area at La Crosse Fairgrounds you can see why he hasn’t. “I still enjoy it, and I’ll help anybody out here not just those that are racing my engines.” And so it is with John Scott, a racer from back in the day still connected to the sport today.
Here and there…Defending La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway NASCAR Late Model Division champion J. Herbst took his first Feature win of 2012 racing to the 25 lap win May 26th at the track. Following him in order were Harley Jankowski, Todd Korish, Brent Kirchner, Shawn Pfaff, Adam Degenhardt, Cole Howland, Mike Carlson, Jeremy Wagner, and Nick Clements…Steve Bachman took a year off of racing and committed himself to a full time effort in 2012. It paid off May 26th as he captured the Sportsman Feature in dominating fashion at La Crosse Fairgrounds…Chris Weber meanwhile raced to the main event win in the Thunderstox Division May 26th…Troy Tuma who has spent the last couple years trying to iron out all the mechanical issues with his NASCAR Late Model is looking at a full 2012 campaign at La Crosse Fairgrounds. “We’ve spent the last couple seasons mostly fixing things. We’ve done that and now I just need to get some laps in on this track. I need to get used to a track this size, it’s a lot different than what I’m used to having raced at shorter paved tracks in Minnesota. We’re getting some help this year too as far as set ups go so we’re expecting to run better.”
Photos. Harley Jankowski #85 raced to a career best 2nd place finish in the NASCAR Late Model Feature May 26th at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Troy Tuma #20 puts his NASCAR Late Model through its paces.
Pics from the past…John Scott #21 in his racing days. Marlin Walbeck #30 in one of the Chevrolet’s he dominated racing with in the 1960s.
Looking back on Friday night, May 21st 1971, Jim Sauter again won the Feature, his third in a row, at La Crosse Interstate Speedway. The Semi-Feature went to Ed Nichols #6 in his 1969 Torino, with heat race wins going to #92 Dick Rogers in a 1963 Ford, #58 Buck Linhart, and Sauter. The Fast dash went to Marv Marzofka. And on this date of May 21st, 1961 at one of the first tracks I ever saw a race at, the Griffith Park Speedway of Wisconsin Rapids, WI., it was Marlin Walbeck #30 winning the 30 lap Feature. Ken Pancratz, #29, Herb Kurth #99, Morrie Piotrowski # 90 and Don Johnson followed. The 20 lap Semi-Feature went to #0 Bill Wirtz with heat race wins going to #7 John McNamara, Sam Warp, Carl Hankey and Walbeck. The Trophy Dash was won by Bill Glendenning while Fast qualifying time around the flat ¼ mile paved oval went to Les Katzner at 16:85 seconds.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
May 17, 2012
Finally got into some actual racing here recently as La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., decided to wait through a weather front to get their opening program for 2012 in May 5th. A great field of 100 cars was on hand along with a couple thousand loyal, diehard fans to witness the action.
Brad Powell served notice he will indeed be a threat this year as he vaulted from his front row starting position into the NASCAR Late Model Feature lead never to be headed. Steve Carlson made a late bid but ran out of laps at the end and had to settle for 2nd. Had the race not run green flag to checkered, Carlson may have had a shot at the win as he was closing fast at the end. Powell normally is one passing a number of cars to get to the front being a notoriously good qualifier. With Time trials scrapped on the night however events were lined up by last years point standings which to Powell’s good fortune put him in the front. After 25 laps it was Powell and Carlson followed by Mike Carlson, defending NASCAR division champion J. Herbst, Adam Degenhardt, Brent Kirchner, Mark Lamoreaux, Todd Korish, Cole Howland and Shawn Pfaff. Degenhardt’s finish is noteworthy as he plans a full season in a 2nd car fielded by the Korish team. In so many instances drivers have a back up car in case their main ride has problems and usually the driver in it is just staying out of the way on the race track. Not so with Degenhardt as he indicated he wouldn’t race that way. “These guys know I won’t race that way, I’m going to race to win every night out here. If it was any other way with the team, I have my own stuff, I’d just race that.”
Another driver in a second car that plans to go for the gusto is John Olson who is in a Brent Kirchner Late Model. “This is the same car Troy Rave drove. We’re going for the Rookie of the Year in it this year.” When asked what has been different so far between Late Model racing and Outlaw or Sportsman Division cars that he has driven in the past Olson notes, “It’s the steering on these cars. The steering is so much quicker I have to get used to that.” Speed of course is the other factor. “These cars are much faster but I’m not at all afraid of speed.”
Another driver racing a NASCAR Late Model this year that has been out of the sport for quite some time is Bob Manske. “It’s been 17 years since I raced a Sportsman car out here. 17 years and about 50lbs of weight I’ve gained! As a matter of fact the last timed I raced here I set fast time. I don’t think I’ll be doing that tonight” Manske didn’t as Time trials were washed out anyway but he does plan on racing the entire season. “We’re racing for Rookie of the Year this year, but mainly were just here to have fun. Troy Goodenough who owned this car gave me such a good deal on it I decided to get back into it. I even have my crew chief with me who helped me back in 1969 when I first started racing! I don’t have any real high expectations, it’s really tough competition out here. I’ll tell you what though, it’s going to be a blast.”
Greg Scheck found himself in victory lane in the Sportsman Feature holding off Jim Schermerhorn and Matt Inglett. The Thunderstox Division had a healthy field of 20 cars on hand and it was Jason Bolster taking the feature win after leader under the checkered Chris Weber was DQ’d for a battery location infraction. Hornet drivers were swarming the pits on the night and it was Kim Strom and Andy Moore victorious in their main events.
And when all was said and done on the night, frogs could be heard happily singing in Lake Speed in the infield. Even they are glad to see the season get started!
Here and there…The postponed ASA Midwest Tour opener at Madison International Speedway May 6 did get there show in May 12th with Andrew Morrissey besting a 33 car field to take the Joe Shear Classic. Morrissey held off a furious last ditch effort by Skylar Holzhausen to take his first Tour win. Nick Panitzke Chris Weinkauf and Nate Haseleu rounded out the top five…La Crosse Fairgrounds got their second show of 2012 in the books here May12th with Mark Lamoreaux in the Herbst Racing 2nd car taking the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature win. Finishing right behind him, you guessed it, J.Herbst…The ASA Midwest Tour has their next scheduled event at the State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI., May 19th. If you haven’t seen some good ¼ mile paved short track racing in awhile State Park is the place to be Saturday…Chris and Jason Weinkauf will be competing in the entire ASA Midwest Tour in 2012 for Jay Vander Geest with Jason shooting for Rookie of the Year honors. Both got off to a good start at the MIS event with Chris placing 4th in the main and Jason 11th. In asking Jason how the two brothers will manage to get off of work to make all the shows, “We’re both bosses so we can take off to go race!...In the quote of the column department this time around, Jon Eilen ASA Tour regular, is going to get married this summer. The date he picked to take the plunge is July 7th of this year. “We picked that date (7th month 7th day) so I could remember it since those numbers are the same as my car number!...
Photos NASCAR Late Model rookie drivers #37 Bob Manske and #41 John Olson. Adam Degenhardt #03 placed a very respectable 5th in the main opening night.
Pic from the past…On the heals of the ASA Midwest Tour run Joe Shear Classic May 12th, here’s a photo of Joe from 1975.
Looking back on Friday night, May 14th 1971, Jim Sauter repeated his winning performance at La Crosse Interstate Speedway by taking his 2nd Feature in a row this time over Rich Somers and John McNamara. The Semi-Feature win went to Bobby Turzinski over Ed Viner and Fred Beckler. Heat race wins went to Buck Linhart, Larry Behrens and Sauter. Fastest time trialer was Marv Marzofka.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
May 3, 2012
“We should have been racing here in March!”
That’s been the consensus in these parts as downright balmy weather was the norm during that month whereas now we are struggling to get up to normal temps and the skies are full of precipitation. All that of course means it’s been difficult to catch much racing action here in recent days.
We did get a chance to see some cars go around in circles though as La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway of West Salem, WI., had their media and practice day April 21st. Somewhere in the neighborhood of 45 racing machines were on hand to shake ‘em down as they say and in that group in somewhat of a surprise was ASA Midwest Tour regular Nick Murgic. So why did Murgic make the over 2 hour trip to West Salem when he could have traveled 10-15 minutes to the Elko Speedway of Elko, MN? Well, because at the time Elko had its dirt track in place for an early season event and the Murgics’ are pretty far removed from being members of the dirt racing fraternity. And, with a number of changes implemented into their Super Late Model Touring car it was time for a shakedown cruise to see if they were for the better. According to father Steve Murgic, “We’ve got a lot of new things we’re doing with this car so we came here to shake it down and see if we’re heading in the right direction before the ASA Tour opener At MIS ( Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI.,) next week” The team felt good about their car after the practice but even with good early results aren’t certain how much they’ll race with ASA this year. We’d like to run the whole Series but it’s just getting tough for a working man to take the time to do it. There’s some dates during the week and even on the weekend where we may not be able to make it. I practically have to shut down my shop to go to these shows so I’m both spending money to go race and losing money because the business is practically closed for those days. It’s just tough.” Hopefully the team finds a way as they appear to be close to a break through season with the ASA Midwest Tour.
Another driver a bit uncertain of what he will be doing this year is veteran Steve Carlson. I don’t know for sure what I’m going to do this year. Probably race some with ASA and also here at La Crosse Fairgrounds.” My car owners here, the Johnson brothers are helping Becca Kasten quite a bit, so we’ll just have to see.” One thing Carlson does know is he will be assisting his son Mike who shares a shop with him in his racing at the Fairgrounds. “He’s got a new front and rear stub on the car so it’s almost new from last year.” Mike Carlson has gone with a mostly white color scheme on the car for this year as well and if it’s as fast as it looks good he should be in for a banner year.
One driver that was on hand today has stated he will be competing full time at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Former NASCAR Late Model track champion here at Lax Fairgrounds Brad Powell hopes to run the entire year as he’s picked up some additional sponsor backing for the 2012 campaign. If it goes according to plan Powell should be a contender for the championship this season.
Shawn Pfaff will again be back full time and he’d like nothing better than to win another championship. After practicing he felt good about his car although he said it can really change from week to week. According to Pfaff, “For a week you can have a perfect car. Then you come back the next week and you think conditions are exactly the same and the car isn’t right, you’re off by a couple tenths. These cars are so adjustable, you can adjust everything on them, you just have to keep working on them to stay fast!”
Defending Lax Fairgrounds Speedway NASCAR Late Model track champion J. Herbst will be back to defend his title in 2012. Herbst had both his cars at the track for practice and was reasonably satisfied with the results. Its amazing Herbst was even here today as a winter vehicle accident left him in rough shape physically. Numerous injuries were incurred in the one vehicle accident but Herbst has rebounded nicely and expects to be in the thick of things again this year. All in all it would appear another exciting season of paved racing is on tap in 2012 at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. We just, as usual, need a little cooperation from the weather!
Here and there…Speaking of weather the Lax Fairgrounds Speedway opener was postponed April 28th and rescheduled for May 5th…Other tracks of note suffering the same fate included the Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., and the Upper Iowa Speedway of Decorah, Iowa. Both of those will try again May 5th as well… Don’t forget the ASA Midwest Tour opener Saturday and Sunday, May 5-6 at Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI., where the 4th Annual Joe Shear Classic 100 lap feature will be held…One thing the weather hasn’t affected is the fishing around here. This scribe took the opportunity to wet a line in the Big Lake Onalaska and scored the win by catching a number of sizeable fish. The filets will taste great when we get a chance to fry them up. If you can’t be racing, try fishing!...Looking back in history on May 7th, 1971 the as it was known then La Crosse Interstate Speedway opened for the season with Jim Sauter #5 taking the 20 lap Feature win in his 1969 Chevelle. He was followed by #91 Marv Marzofka in a 1969 Mercury Cyclone and #15 Rich Somers in a 1969 Ford Torino. The 10 lap Consolation winner was #8 Larry Ravenscroff in his 1957 Chevy while heat race wins went to #92 Curt Iverson, 1963 Ford, #83 Dale Walworth, 1968 Ford Torino, and Marzofka. The Dash on the night went to Sauter…
Photos. #21 Shawn Pfaff at speed. #43 Brad Powell is after a championship in 2012. The name Murgic has been familiar in racing for a long time. The purple #77 is Mike Murgic in 1976 at the Minnesota State Fair race. Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
APRIL 2012
By Dale P. Danielski
With the weather we’ve had it seems like we could be in the heart of the racing season. But, we aren’t, so that means we’ll go with a random thoughts column heading into April and the official start of it at least in these parts.
Of course you readers out there know I tend to pick on NASCAR and its ways on occasion so we definitely will include some of that here. Speaking of which, in the Cup race at Fontana, CA., Jeff Gordon dragged his gas can with the human filler attached to it into the next pit stall. No one was in that stall and it was pretty harmless but because NASCAR rules state that no pit work or equipment can be in another teams stall Gordon was penalized. Is that really the intent of the rule a guy being accidentally while still attached to that equipment dragged there or a team relocating to perform said work in another stall?. Should be able to make an exception to that rule with an instance of this nature in my eyes…It sure seems like NASCAR’s biggest event and the first of the season, the Daytona 500 gets screwed up in some shape or form practically every year. That can’t be providing it with the best image although with the race finally being held on Monday night this year it did receive record ratings. Of course we can’t predict weather accurately, and who would have imagined Juan Pablo Montoya wrecking a track vehicle and burning up the track forcing a 2 hour delay. Montoya I’m sure at times would like to light a fire under his race team which seems to struggle more than it should but certainly this wasn’t what he had in mind!...Of course many before me have talked about Chad Knaus with the Jimmy Johnson race team getting out of their Daytona infraction penalty, or at least most of it. It seems NASCAR has the uncanny ability to hit these teams where it hurts the least, in the pocketbook…Good to see Iowa racer Landon Cassill in a fulltime ride in Cup racing after losing out to Kurt Busch for the seat he held last year. We recall talking to Cassill at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway during Oktoberfest racing weekend several years ago and then watching him out fox veteran Eddie Hoffman to win a big race there. Shortly thereafter he went on to bigger things and certainly more than a few eyes must have witnessed that move which helped propel his career forward… Speaking of La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway they will be opening on April 28th this year on a Saturday night of course. One noteworthy addition to the schedule this year sees the Big 8 Series Late Models competing in a Tuesday night, July 3rd Holiday special. Sportsmen and Thunderstox will also be on the nights card…Good to see the ASA Midwest Tour appearing at some big as well as tradition rich venues this year. The Mlwaukee Mile event should be great and going to the Iowa Speedway is always a good thing. First time visits to unique tracks Berlin Raceway of Marne, MI., and the I-44 Lebanon Speedway, of Lebanon, MO., will be challenging for drivers and very entertaining for fans…Well, we know running a race track at the short track level certainly doesn’t get any easier and it’s very possible new ownership at some point may be giving it a try at Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI., and the Marshfield Motor Speedway of Marshfield, WI. Both the 1/3 mile paved ‘Sands oval and the ½ Marshfield track are for sale as we write this although neither has been purchased and both have full schedules of racing planned for 2012 with Marshfield hosting their opener April 28th and Golden Sands getting started May 4th…Other tracks in our vicinity with schedules out announcing opening dates include Deer Creek Speedway, Racine, MN., April 7th, Mississippi Thunder Speedway, Fountain City, WI., April 27th, Upper Iowa Speedway, Decorah, Iowa, April 28th. The Cresco Speedway of Cresco, Iowa will again feature a limited racing schedule with their first race program set for June 21.
A look back in time…In 1972 at the Golden Sands Speedway opening race, April 16th it was Dick Trickle taking the Feature win over Marv Marzofka and Lyle Nabbefeldt. Heat race winners were Rich Somers and Trickle with the semi-feature win going to Deb Langsdorf. Trickle also won the Fast Dash and set fast qualifying time giving him a sweep of all 4 events he participated in. When’s the last time someone pulled off a feat like that?
Photos Jim Back in his first Pony car era creation, circa 1972, a 1968 Ford Mustang. Photo. A couple Minnesota travelers in 1972 Jim Derhaag left and Bob Jusola in their full size Chevrolets.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
MARCH 2012
By Dale P. Danielski
Being less than a winter enthusiast, it’s always nice to have a bit of a diversion to count on to get the racing fix, especially if you aren’t one of the fortunate ones to be able to catch racing action down south this time of year. With that in mind we headed over to Tilleda, WI., for some ice racing action.
A cool little ¼ mile or so oval was carved out there on a pond in the town fed by Henning and Pony creeks, allowing for racing action from the start of January until the end of February weather permitting of course. Even though this winter has seen some very mild temperatures, ice depth here was estimated at between 12-16 inches which is plenty for full bodied car racing.
And racing they do as the group “Tilleda Thunder On Ice” puts on events featuring 5 divisions of racing which include ATV’s, front wheel, rear wheel, studded and non studded racing machines. The mood here is pretty laid back, and fun is the main operative, but there is a competitive side to this type of racing as after all there is a beginning and an end to each race and a checkered flag is awarded to the first across the finish line! The effort to compete is a dedicated one as well, as more goes into preparing these racing machines than one might think. This is especially true in the studded divisions of racing as a ton of time is put into putting the ice gripping studs into tires on these machines. According to Sarah Scheibe who has raced here the last couple seasons it can take anywhere from 8-25 hours to get the right number of studs and the proper pattern in each of the tires used on the racing vehicles.
The racing program here is run very similarly to what we are accustomed to at tracks racing in the summer months. Heat races are conducted leading up to Feature events in each division. Unlike many ice venues there is also a payback at the end of the day for all participants, derived from a $5.00 fan admission fee and the purchase of pit passes by competitors. Tilleda Thunder is a club, so memberships can also be purchased which result in discounted fees to enter each event and also rewards pay at the end of the season.
It really isn’t about the money though; rather it’s an activity that helps to pass the long winter months here in the Upper Midwest. According to Scheibe, “I used to hate winter and the cold, but since I started racing out here it makes it go so much faster. I almost look forward to winter now!”
Today’s racing action was held on a blustery, cold winter afternoon but it didn’t deter from the racing competition on the Tilleda pond. In dirt track racing sometimes you must fend off the cloud of dust flying at you from tires gripping the clay surface, whereas here today we had to shield our eyes from the fine ice particles being kicked up in the air. A unique, but pretty cool phenomenon none the less! There was plenty of ice dust generated today as 41 racing machines were shown on the line up board, some arriving from as far away as Manistique, MI., for events run during the afternoon.
The day’s action was very enjoyable and we didn’t even find ourselves thinking of witnessing racing down south or for the upcoming summer season. Although after learning that the Tilleda pond produces some pretty sizeable fish we may find ourselves heading back up this way come June!
Photo. Full size car comin at ya racing. Photo. ATV action green means go. Photo. And you thought Hoosier tires only worked on dirt or pavement. Photo. A lot of time and effort goes into making studded tires race ready. Photo. Hot set ups in ice racing. Photo. There’s more than one use for road hazard signs. Photo. Freddy Fryar #25 in his Pete Hamilton built Nova, was the overall World Series of Asphalt racing winner at New Smyrna Beach Speedway.
And dipping back into history in our first ever visit to New Smyrna Beach Speedway, New Smyrna Beach, FL., February 7-14, 1976, Late Model Feature winners were Freddy Fryar, (2) Donnie Allison, Jody Ridley, John Anderson and Gary Balough. OOPS! I guess I was thinking about racing down south!...
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
FEBRUARY 2012
By Dale P. Danielski
It’s not too difficult to understand why folks who followed closely and witnessed much of the time racing in the Midwest, tried to keep track of feature event wins for drivers from this part of the Country. These racers had so many opportunities to compete that it was a countdown of sorts every year to see who won the most. It was just phenomenal how many wins were being racked up and more times than not at least in the paved late model ranks it was a road to a town in Wisconsin that found a driver near or on top the list. In 1978 it was again Wis. Rapids, WI., racer Dick Trickle leading the way.
The hot Bemco Engineering, Pontiac Firebird combination Trickle had going in 1977 continued in 1978 as Dick got off to a quick start winning the ASA event at Queen City Speedway of West Chester, OH. Mark Martin gave pursuit, yes the same Mark Martin racing in NASCAR today but had to settle for 2nd at the end of 100 laps. 3rd spot went to Illinois hot shoe Ed Hoffman with Florida traveler Dick Anderson in 4th and Michigan driver John Anderson 5th. Looking further down the rundown, Mark Malcuit was 6th, Mike Eddy 7th, Joe Shear 8th, Ray Young 9th and Don Gregory 10th. In looking at that list it’s conceivable that combined they won over 3,000 Feature races. Is that possible? It’s not only possible it’s very likely before their careers, except for Martin of course, he’s still adding to the total, all ended.
Trickle followed up his Ohio win with another ASA conquest this time at the Hartford Michigan Speedway. In order behind Trickle it was Denny Nyari, Bob Senneker, Ray Young and Dick Anderson. Big news pertaining to ASA was their sanctioning an event at the famed Milwaukee Mile in West Allis, WI. Normally competing on short tracks, the Super Speedway “Mile” was going to be a great challenge for the short trackers. Everyone wanted to be a part of the prestigious happening and an astounding 80 race teams entered the event to be held May 7th. One driver hoping to win the 150 mile race was Minnesota transplant to Wisconsin Mike Miller. Miller had been a Ford product racer for his entire career but decided to switch to an Oldsmobile Cutlass for the 1978 season. With Chevrolet power, the combination was a good one and Miller proved it by winning a couple early season main events at Capital Speedway of Oregon, WI.
Miller didn’t win the Milwaukee event but did place a respectable 9th as Bob Senneker posted one of the biggest wins of his career. Senneker’s win earned him $3,950 in prize money and was witnessed by over 16,000 fans. Mark Martin paced the 70 car field in time trials setting a track record of 31:454 seconds around the flat mile track. Placing 2nd after 150 laps was Larry Phillips with Dick Trickle, Larry Detjens and Dave Watson following. Most drivers chose a softer compound tire for the race which showed more wear than the harder compound available and it made a difference in the end. One driver was very pleased with his choice of the harder tire. It was none other than the “Sneaker” himself, race winner Bob Senneker.
The usual suspects were again winning during the year, but drivers like Steve Burgess, Rich Somers, John Speer, Tony Strupp and Larry Nipple also picked up wins at paved tracks in the region. Drivers that were destined for bigger things down the road were also winning as the names Rusty Wallace and Alan Kulwicki appeared in the newspaper headlines. Although becoming more and more infrequent, Fox Valley Wisconsin driver Pete Parker was racing and winning on both pavement and dirt tracks. His pavement win at Wisconsin International Raceway of Kaukauna, WI., early in the season was his first ever on black top. He picked up an additional pavement win later in the year there as well. Very common in the 1960s, the practice was occurring less and less as equipment was changing and cars and set ups just didn’t work for both types of race surfaces.
The Art Frigo/John McKarns ARTGO Tour was going strong and something very rare occurred in an event held June 3rd at the Grundy County Speedway of Morris, IL. Dick Trickle and Tom Reffner crossed the start finish line side by side and without a clear advantage to be seen were declared co-victors of the race. A dead heat TIE after 50 laps of racing! In all my travels I can’t say I’ve ever witnessed a finish like that.
Meanwhile, the Mike Miller train was really heating up as Mike was winning throughout Wisconsin. Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI., State Park Speedway of Wausau, La Crosse Interstate Speedway of West Salem and Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI., were some of his latest conquests. It’s interesting to note that when Miller moved to Wisconsin mechanical engineering genius Bob Uhlir came with him. Uhlir had a hand in nearly all of Miller’s racing creations and their latest effort was really paying off. MIL-LIR Chassis, a combination of Miller and Uhlir would be a team to beat throughout the 1978 season.
Another driver that was destined for bigger things won a feature at La Crosse Interstate Speedway on June 14th. No big deal, lots of guys win right? But this was none other than Steve Carlson behind the wheel of a 1970 Buick Skylark no less, winning the 10 lap hobby stock main at the track.
Dick Trickle captured the second race win of the Red, White and Blue series at WIR, after nearly not making it in time to compete. A crowd of over 6,100 fans anxiously awaited his arrival for the event and he finally did make it and of course the rest is history as Trickle held off Tom Reffner, Marv Marzofka, Mike Miller and Joe Shear for the 55 lap win. Trickle complained of having to remedy overheating problems on his Firebird for his late arrival but those in the know realized he was probably just psyching out his competition and waiting until the last minute to qualify. Often times Trickle would be the last one on the track for time trials and much to the dismay of the driver with the fastest time up to that point steal the honor with the quickest lap. On numerous occasions the lap by Trickle would be a track record as that occurred quite frequently during this time in racing. The last minute drama certainly didn’t hurt from a promoters standpoint as folks attended events just to see what Trickle’s next feat would be!
Marv Marzofka took his turn at winning a bunch of races as he took 7 wins at various tracks in a two week period in late June and early July. Marzofka in his familiar yellow Camaro appeared to be peaking at the right time during the year. And like Miller, Marzofka was doing it his way as he built his race car on his own from the ground up. Unlike so many others that were now utilizing chassis and engines by specialty manufacturers, Marzofka also built his own racing engines at his shop in Nekoosa, WI.
Dave Marcis who had put his time in racing in Wisconsin before moving south to compete in NASCAR was always welcomed home at least once during each season. 1978 was no different as Marcis competed at Dells Motor Speedway in August. Behind the wheel of Larry Detjens’ Camaro, Marcis placed a respectable 7th in the 75 lap feature at the 1/3 mile paved oval which was won by Mike Miller. Miller continued to roll and now had two race ready Olds Cutlasses at his disposal to tackle the racing scene. He also captured the 60 lap feature finale of the Red, White and Blue Series at Kaukauna although Dick Trickle had enough points to take the overall series crown.
Another driver that was destined for bigger things down the road captured his first career Late Model victory August 19th at the Dells Motor Speedway as Steve Holzhausen in a 1978 Ford Fairmont took the 30 lap main event holding off Mike Miller in the process. Ken Lund had done the same thing a few weeks before knocking off the heavy hitters for his first career win at the Dells.
With the season winding down and a number of drivers having very satisfying years it was time for big dollar special events. Tom Reffner got things rolling by taking two of three feature wins in the ARTGO finale at Capital Speedway which gave him his second such crown in the series. Larry Detjens took the 300 lap win in the Amsoil sponsored ASA race at the Minnesota State Fair on Labor Day which was always one of the most prestigious and sought after races to win. Rich Somers took an amazing 9 feature race wins at WIR to win that season crown while Marv Marzofka took track championships at Golden Sands Speedway, La Crosse Interstate, Wis. Dells, and State Park Speedways. Of course no season ending event was bigger than the National Short Track Championships at Rockford, IL., Speedway and none other than Dick Trickle claimed the 200 lap win on the ¼ mile high banked oval. Surprisingly Trickle who won the very 1st NSTC event in 1966 hadn’t won one since. 1978 found the tough to tame track smiling upon Trickle and he rather easily took the win lapping the entire field except for 2nd place Mark Martin.
Dave Watson who didn’t exactly have a banner year of short track racing in 1978 did at least end the season in Wisconsin in fine fashion by taking the 100 lap main event during Oktoberfest at La Crosse Interstate Speedway.
And drivers that were running well at the end of the year kept their momentum going by traveling out of state and winning at high paying special events. Mike Miller took a $7,000 win at Craig Road Speedway, of Las Vegas, NV and also won the 150 lap Feature at Bakersfield, CA., Speedway, which was worth another $4,000. Dick Trickle took the World Cup 400 win at I-70 Speedway and also the Florida State Championship 200 lap Feature win at Golden Gate Speedway of Tampa, FL. Tom Reffner traveled to Colorado Springs International Speedway and took the 150 lap main event win there for the second year in a row. This year’s version was worth over $4,000 in prize money for the Rudolph, WI., racer. I guess the motto is when you are winning you might as well keep racing, and these guys did both during the 1978 season!
Speaking of winning, final Feature win totals found Trickle with 47, Miller with 27, Reffner with 22 and Marzofka with 19. This all in one season and most of the time racing against each other! Pretty amazing to say the least, and again no wonder why folks try to calculate just how many career wins these guys really did end up with. Between them that number is very possibly pushing 2,000. Again, pretty amazing, but that was the way racing was during this era.
Looking back at ticket pricing during the year it appeared very affordable to watch racing although I’m sure wages at the time weren’t the greatest either! If you wanted to catch racing during the Annual Oktoberfest event, for an adult it would cost you $3.00 on Friday, $4.00 Saturday and $6.00 on Sunday. Students age 12-17 got a break with pricing at $2.00, $3.00 and $3.00 respectively. If you could pass for under age 11 you were in all three days free!
Looking back in time in 1971 at the Dells Motor Speedway, August 28th which ended up being the last event held there during the year it was Dick Trickle taking the Feature win followed by Bill Retallick, Tom Reffner, Jim Back and Bill Wirtz. Semi-Feature winner was Del Kemnetz with the consolation race going to Russ Mueller. Heat race victories went to Gene Theide, Greg Delapp, Kato Theisen, and Steve Manke. The Trophy Dash was won by Retallick with Trickle setting fastest time of 14.73 seconds. 1971 was the last year of the full sized, longer wheel based cars as 1972 brought on the pony car revolution.
Photos. Mike Miller #18 captured 27 Feature wins during the 1978 season racing two Oldsmobile Cutlasses. Dick Trickle was at it again in 1978 winning 47 Feature events in his Pontiac Firebird. Bob Senneker #84 was tough to beat wherever he raced in 1978.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
DECEMBER 2011
By Dale P. Danielski
The cold weather is again here and that can mean only one thing for this scribe writing in the off season for MRC: Going retro!
It’s reasonably well known that Dick Trickle was preferential to Ford Motor Company for his racing efforts. Hard to knock his success through the years either as he drove the FoMoCo race cars to record performances everywhere. With 1975 and 1976 not so kind however for Trickle racing the Ford products, Dick decided to make a change for the 1977 season. It came in the form of a new Bill Bembinster BEMCO Engineered race car and was fitted with of all things a Pontiac Firebird body. Prototype GM racing engines were also now under the hood and it appeared Trickle’s Ford days were done. To go along with the change of equipment Trickle was now also the White Knight instead of using the Purple Knight moniker he had raced under for so many years. Supposedly Tom Steuding who had plenty of good racing years on both dirt and pavement and Dick got together, more than likely one night very late or perhaps in the early morning hours and came up with the idea to change Trickle’s name. Steuding had a sponsor known as the White Horse Inn and Trickle thought he’d look good in White so a new name but by no means new persona was the result for Trickle!
It was awhile before the car made its debut but Trickle pulled off the feat in grand fashion winning with an unpainted version on May 15th in the Spring Opener 50 at Wisconsin International Raceway of Kaukauna, WI. A win at WIR was always impressive back in the day as drivers from a four State area would converge for the event and determine who was the best of the best. On this day Trickle put down the efforts of Jim Pierson who was 2nd in a 1977 Camaro, Tom Reffner who had been winning regularly in his new 1977 AMC Hornet, in 3rd, dirt track legend and pretty fair paved driver in his own right, Roger Regeth in 4th in a 1973 Camaro, and Jim Back 5th in a 1973 Camaro.
Interesting to note that Trickle didn’t totally give up on Ford race cars as he drove one to the win later that night at Paul’s Super Speedway, the dirt track in Depere, WI. It was actually still quite common for drivers after racing on the paved WIR track in the afternoon to take their cars over to a dirt track nearby and race at night.
And as was always the case when you were running well, you traveled as Trickle did the very next week winning the American Speed Association 300 lap race at I-70 Speedway of Odessa, MO. Meanwhile, all the usual suspects were getting things going in high gear as well with Dave Watson, 1974 Camaro, Joe Shear, 1974 Camaro, Marv Marzofka, 1974 Camaro, and Larry Detjens, 1976 Camaro picking up wins at area tracks.
Of course it wasn’t like others that thought they had the hot set up weren’t traveling as well as Bob Senneker of Dorr, MI., ventured over to the La Crosse Interstate Speedway of West Salem, WI., June 5th, taking both 50 lap features as part of the Dr. Pepper sponsored program held there.
The Art Frigo/John McKarns ARTGO Tour was again a very popular venue and Trickle picked up the 100 lap win at Capital Super Speedway of Oregon, WI., June 18th as part of a weekend doubleheader. Larry Detjens who for a long time was as loyal to Chrysler products as Trickle was to Fords was winning in his new Camaro taking the ARTGO 100 lap main at Grundy County Speedway, Morris, IL., June 19. The wins kept coming for Trickle too as he took big wins at I-70 Speedway in an ASA event there and also at the Queen City Speedway of West Chester, OH., in a 77 lap Feature at that ½ mile track. Note worthy in that event was Wisconsin native Dave Marcis who was now very established in NASCAR Cup competition finishing 2nd.
Mike Miller the Minnesota transport who was now operating out of Wisconsin Rapids, WI., picked up a victory at La Crosse Interstate Speedway along with two at Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI., in his 1970 Mustang. Miller was another who liked the Ford Products and kept racing his Mustang throughout the season. Later in the year however, due to significant engine woes Miller did switch to Prototype Engineering Chevrolet power plants, but maintained his Mustang livery.
And that guy Steuding we mentioned earlier was having an excellent season racing on dirt winning special events throughout the State of Wisconsin. To some his 30 lap Feature win July 21 on pavement at State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI., came as a surprise although Steuding was normally quite competitive when he raced on pavement. Steuding beat heavy hitters Trickle, Detjens and Marzofka on this night to win.
Of course when you are winning folks tend to keep track of the victories and during this year it was no different as Trickle, even with his somewhat late start was up to 44 main event checkered flags as of August 3rd.
Of course with the season winding down it was time for special events to finish 1977 off and Larry Detjens took one of the biggest winning the World Cup 400 at I-70 Speedway. It was the 3rd straight year drivers from Wisconsin had done so in the prestigious event. No event was any bigger than the Rockford Speedway, Rockford, IL., National Short Track Championships and some young upstart kid put all the veterans in their place as Mark Martin captured the 200 lap win in his 1977 Camaro. Of course an event that continues to grow today, the Annual Oktoberfest at La Crosse Interstate, now Fairgrounds Speedway was held with fan favorite Larry Detjens taking the 100 lap Feature event.
And, as for Trickle, he wound up winning just 54 Feature events during the year down from his record breaking 67 in 1972 and other season high of 56 in 1971. Sure, a down year at 54 and of course unheard of in this day and age!
Of course we would be remiss if we didn’t mention seeing a drivers name here and there in the results column from tracks in Wisconsin during the 1977 racing season. One Dale P. Danielski did compete in the Late Model Division winning a token event on occasion. Driving the 1972 Nova I purchased from fellow racer Jim Bohmsach I have to admit I had a blast during the year. Too bad it was one and done as it was the first and last year I raced!
Photos. No Mark Martin, this driver’s claim to fame is at least being able to say he raced in the top division for a year! Dick Trickle won 54 feature races in his #99 Bemco Engineered Pontiac Firebird in 1977. With him in this photo are #18 Mike Miller and #76 Mike Demars. Trickle traveled in style for the 1970s era of racing.
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
NOVEMBER 2011
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
The history books will show that a Sauter won the 100 lap ASA Midwest Tour finale as part of the 42nd Annual Oktoberfest racing weekend October 6-9, 2011 at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., but which one?
Johnny Sauter dominated the event leading every lap but upon going through post race inspection was found to have issues with his #43 Super Late Model. The ASA group in these instances allows the driver to keep the win, but no money or points can be kept. The track meanwhile takes the win away along with all points and money and gives the victory to the next driver in line passing inspection. In this case it was Travis Sauter who placed 2nd in the event. Everyone moves up a spot with the unhappy victor being scored last with a disqualification.
So will Travis Sauter be listed as the winner of the event his 2nd in a row, or Johnny Sauter with an asterisk next to his name? It appears with the two decisions laid down the answer is both! If anyone is out there like me that likes to dig through racing’s past they’ll be scratching their head when they come across this one 25 years from now.
This year’s Oktoberfest was again blessed with fantastic weather and the racing over the four days definitely didn’t disappoint either. Thursday action got things rolling with the NASCAR Late Model Championship to be determined. Steve Carlson easily won the 40 lap Feature finale but with his 5th place finish, J. Herbst became the champion, his 2nd in the last three years here. Herbst outlasted Todd Korish who for next year vows to have at least one more car on the track to join in the “Team” car concept that helps immensely in chasing these championships.
The Futures division of Super Late Models were also racing tonight and a huge field of up and coming drivers were on hand to do battle. Collin Reffner picked a great time to capture his first ever Super Late Feature win as he raced to the convincing 25 lap victory over Corey Jankowski, Joel Theison, Becca Kasten and Matt Tifft. Reffner, who is a third generation driver appears well on his way to a successful career in the sport. One of the most competitive races on the night was the Sportsman feature as no less than four drivers battled for the win. When the dust, and flying infield grass had cleared it was Jake Arneson taking the win over Greg Scheck and Rick Schermerhorn. Even more impressive for Arneson grabbing the victory was he did it driving with a broken arm! Dan Gilster with another steady season of racing took the Sportsman Division Championship, his 5th . Of course with track rules stating you must either move up a division or sit out a season it will be interesting to see what Gilster does in 2012. He’s had to face this predicament 5 times here now and each found him sitting out the year and racing elsewhere. That’s five years of having to miss racing at your local track in front of the local fans! Andy Moore will have to make that decision as well as he was the 2011 Thunderstox Champion at the track for 2011. Whatever Moore decides he went out in style tonight winning that division’s feature event on the final night of racing.
One of the most popular races during the weekend is the Dick Trickle 99 which commemorates Trickle and his #99 race cars in three 33 lap features. Best overall finishes in the three determine the champion and a very happy Neil Knoblock took honors this year. Knoblock remembers the days of Trickle racing in Wisconsin as he was just beginning his career as Trickle was moving on to bigger things in the sport. Receiving the race winning award from Trickle himself according to Knoblock was the biggest privilege in his life. You can’t say it any better than that and that is exactly what Oktoberfest racing is all about, tradition and racing on one of short track racings biggest stages.
Skylar Holzhausen put on a passing clinic in the Big 8 68 lap feature event on Saturday driving all the way from 16th starting position to the front to win the event. Holzhausen finally caught race long leader Jon Lemke to take the lead and then held off Zack Riddle for the popular victory which amazingly ran green to checkered.
Kyle Shear was Mr. Consistency on Sunday in the JMck 63 event placing 3rd in each 21 lap segment named after promoter extraordinaire John McKarns to win the overall title. Jason Schuler who spends most of his time these days as crew chief for ASA Tour regular Jonathan Eilen hopped in a car for the JMck event and promptly won one of the 21 lap segments! Dan Fredrickson was informed just minutes before the event he would be driving in the ASA Midwest Tour Truck Series feature on the day. It worked out extremely well as Fredrickson went on to win the main event for that series.
Here and there…Andrew Morrissey never did win an ASA Midwest Tour feature event in 2011 but his consistent finishes earned him the title for the year out pointing Jacob Goede and Nathan Haseleu…Skylar Holzhausen on the strength of his $10,000 victory at Elko Minnesota Speedway was named Rookie of the Year for the series…This year’s Champions Reunion was the biggest and best yet featuring over 60 drivers that raced and won from as early as the 1950s into the 2000s. Of course providing much of the entertainment during the day was Dick Trickle who was again on hand. Ernie Tuff was again here and this year brought his 1932 Ford Coupe race car last driven by Jerry “Scratch” Daniels who was also on hand. Donald Denny was a surprise guest during the day. Denny first built and promoted the North La Crosse Speedbowl which was the track in the area before La Crosse Fairgrounds was built. Denny claims he still cringes thinking of some of those first events as in its infancy the sport was very rough and tumble! Great to see dirt track stars Leon Plank and Tom Steuding at the Reunion. Between the two there are way too many victories to try and count!...Another up and coming driver, Cardell Potter won the Stubby Feature race which is open to those who don’t qualify for the Trickle 99 feature field. Potter held off veteran Mark Eswein for the win with Joel Theison taking 3rd…Corey Jankowski who it seemed competed in almost all the divisions during the weekend, won the C Feature for Super Late Models on Saturday to highlight his racing at ‘Fest 42…Rick Schermerhorn in a thrilling battle won the 25 lap Area Sportsman race on Friday…maybe. Actually the post race inspection found Schermerhorn’s carburetor out of spec and the win went to Brett Kane…The novelty Double O event utilizing the big and small track here and featuring Super Late Model, Sportsman, Outlawz and Thunderstox machines was won by the smallest engined car in the race! Kyle Stark drove his 4 cylinder racer to the win beating all the big dogs in the process…Over 18,000 fans attended this years four days of racing known as Oktoberfest. It still amazes this writer that a number of folks who come to the event don’t even attend one day of racing! I guess that’s just some of the mystique of the event and plans are underway for the 43rd Annual to be held October 5-8, 2012…
Photos. Neil Knoblock races to the win of the Trickle 99 at ‘Fest in a car that sat in the garage all year. Neil Knoblock takes a victory in the Sportsman Division on Dick Trickle night at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., in 1989. Dan Gilster #23 5 time La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway Sportsman Champion. In another great photograph shot by the late Bob Bergeron, Reunion regular Ed Nichols #6 racing at Griffith Park Speedway.
And back in time, on October 9th, 1960 the first year of racing at the paved Griffith Park Speedway, Wisconsin Rapids, WI.,the final event of the season was held. Don Lewis won the Feature and was followed by Jere O’Day, Morrie Piotrowski, Les Katzner and John Moquin. Other winners were Ken Pankratz in the semi-main, Red Nickels in the Trophy Dash and 4th heat, Harold Bertram in the 1st heat, Ray Hoffman in the 2nd heat, Herb Kurth in the 3rd heat, and Lewis who also set fast time on the day…
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
The history books will show that a Sauter won the 100 lap ASA Midwest Tour finale as part of the 42nd Annual Oktoberfest racing weekend October 6-9, 2011 at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., but which one?
Johnny Sauter dominated the event leading every lap but upon going through post race inspection was found to have issues with his #43 Super Late Model. The ASA group in these instances allows the driver to keep the win, but no money or points can be kept. The track meanwhile takes the win away along with all points and money and gives the victory to the next driver in line passing inspection. In this case it was Travis Sauter who placed 2nd in the event. Everyone moves up a spot with the unhappy victor being scored last with a disqualification.
So will Travis Sauter be listed as the winner of the event his 2nd in a row, or Johnny Sauter with an asterisk next to his name? It appears with the two decisions laid down the answer is both! If anyone is out there like me that likes to dig through racing’s past they’ll be scratching their head when they come across this one 25 years from now.
This year’s Oktoberfest was again blessed with fantastic weather and the racing over the four days definitely didn’t disappoint either. Thursday action got things rolling with the NASCAR Late Model Championship to be determined. Steve Carlson easily won the 40 lap Feature finale but with his 5th place finish, J. Herbst became the champion, his 2nd in the last three years here. Herbst outlasted Todd Korish who for next year vows to have at least one more car on the track to join in the “Team” car concept that helps immensely in chasing these championships.
The Futures division of Super Late Models were also racing tonight and a huge field of up and coming drivers were on hand to do battle. Collin Reffner picked a great time to capture his first ever Super Late Feature win as he raced to the convincing 25 lap victory over Corey Jankowski, Joel Theison, Becca Kasten and Matt Tifft. Reffner, who is a third generation driver appears well on his way to a successful career in the sport. One of the most competitive races on the night was the Sportsman feature as no less than four drivers battled for the win. When the dust, and flying infield grass had cleared it was Jake Arneson taking the win over Greg Scheck and Rick Schermerhorn. Even more impressive for Arneson grabbing the victory was he did it driving with a broken arm! Dan Gilster with another steady season of racing took the Sportsman Division Championship, his 5th . Of course with track rules stating you must either move up a division or sit out a season it will be interesting to see what Gilster does in 2012. He’s had to face this predicament 5 times here now and each found him sitting out the year and racing elsewhere. That’s five years of having to miss racing at your local track in front of the local fans! Andy Moore will have to make that decision as well as he was the 2011 Thunderstox Champion at the track for 2011. Whatever Moore decides he went out in style tonight winning that division’s feature event on the final night of racing.
One of the most popular races during the weekend is the Dick Trickle 99 which commemorates Trickle and his #99 race cars in three 33 lap features. Best overall finishes in the three determine the champion and a very happy Neil Knoblock took honors this year. Knoblock remembers the days of Trickle racing in Wisconsin as he was just beginning his career as Trickle was moving on to bigger things in the sport. Receiving the race winning award from Trickle himself according to Knoblock was the biggest privilege in his life. You can’t say it any better than that and that is exactly what Oktoberfest racing is all about, tradition and racing on one of short track racings biggest stages.
Skylar Holzhausen put on a passing clinic in the Big 8 68 lap feature event on Saturday driving all the way from 16th starting position to the front to win the event. Holzhausen finally caught race long leader Jon Lemke to take the lead and then held off Zack Riddle for the popular victory which amazingly ran green to checkered.
Kyle Shear was Mr. Consistency on Sunday in the JMck 63 event placing 3rd in each 21 lap segment named after promoter extraordinaire John McKarns to win the overall title. Jason Schuler who spends most of his time these days as crew chief for ASA Tour regular Jonathan Eilen hopped in a car for the JMck event and promptly won one of the 21 lap segments! Dan Fredrickson was informed just minutes before the event he would be driving in the ASA Midwest Tour Truck Series feature on the day. It worked out extremely well as Fredrickson went on to win the main event for that series.
Here and there…Andrew Morrissey never did win an ASA Midwest Tour feature event in 2011 but his consistent finishes earned him the title for the year out pointing Jacob Goede and Nathan Haseleu…Skylar Holzhausen on the strength of his $10,000 victory at Elko Minnesota Speedway was named Rookie of the Year for the series…This year’s Champions Reunion was the biggest and best yet featuring over 60 drivers that raced and won from as early as the 1950s into the 2000s. Of course providing much of the entertainment during the day was Dick Trickle who was again on hand. Ernie Tuff was again here and this year brought his 1932 Ford Coupe race car last driven by Jerry “Scratch” Daniels who was also on hand. Donald Denny was a surprise guest during the day. Denny first built and promoted the North La Crosse Speedbowl which was the track in the area before La Crosse Fairgrounds was built. Denny claims he still cringes thinking of some of those first events as in its infancy the sport was very rough and tumble! Great to see dirt track stars Leon Plank and Tom Steuding at the Reunion. Between the two there are way too many victories to try and count!...Another up and coming driver, Cardell Potter won the Stubby Feature race which is open to those who don’t qualify for the Trickle 99 feature field. Potter held off veteran Mark Eswein for the win with Joel Theison taking 3rd…Corey Jankowski who it seemed competed in almost all the divisions during the weekend, won the C Feature for Super Late Models on Saturday to highlight his racing at ‘Fest 42…Rick Schermerhorn in a thrilling battle won the 25 lap Area Sportsman race on Friday…maybe. Actually the post race inspection found Schermerhorn’s carburetor out of spec and the win went to Brett Kane…The novelty Double O event utilizing the big and small track here and featuring Super Late Model, Sportsman, Outlawz and Thunderstox machines was won by the smallest engined car in the race! Kyle Stark drove his 4 cylinder racer to the win beating all the big dogs in the process…Over 18,000 fans attended this years four days of racing known as Oktoberfest. It still amazes this writer that a number of folks who come to the event don’t even attend one day of racing! I guess that’s just some of the mystique of the event and plans are underway for the 43rd Annual to be held October 5-8, 2012…
Photos. Neil Knoblock races to the win of the Trickle 99 at ‘Fest in a car that sat in the garage all year. Neil Knoblock takes a victory in the Sportsman Division on Dick Trickle night at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., in 1989. Dan Gilster #23 5 time La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway Sportsman Champion. In another great photograph shot by the late Bob Bergeron, Reunion regular Ed Nichols #6 racing at Griffith Park Speedway.
And back in time, on October 9th, 1960 the first year of racing at the paved Griffith Park Speedway, Wisconsin Rapids, WI.,the final event of the season was held. Don Lewis won the Feature and was followed by Jere O’Day, Morrie Piotrowski, Les Katzner and John Moquin. Other winners were Ken Pankratz in the semi-main, Red Nickels in the Trophy Dash and 4th heat, Harold Bertram in the 1st heat, Ray Hoffman in the 2nd heat, Herb Kurth in the 3rd heat, and Lewis who also set fast time on the day…
News, notes and comments welcome to Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650, at 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com , www.starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
October 2011
By Dale P. Danielski
Octoberfest racing weekend 10/6-9/11 at La Crosse Fairgrounds, West Salem, WI. is near and with that in mind we’ll open some discussion pertaining to the event.
Of course having been to too many of these to count we like to go back in time and pick out some highlights and in some cases lowlights of the events held. This year is the 42nd Annual event so there have been plenty of both!
We’ve mentioned more than once in the past that the first ever event was held in 1970. The track having been paved in July of that year from the dirt surface it was since opening in 1957 didn’t take long for folks to take a liking to, as speeds steadily increased and full fields of cars participated at the track. The scheduling of the event was due in part to other tracks hosting season ending specials such as the nationally renowned National Short Track Championships held at Rockford Speedway in Rockford, IL. Why not run something of that nature here in Wisconsin was the thought process so promoter Larry Wehrs did. We know Tom Reffner captured that first 200 lap feature event but it’s interesting to note some of the others that participated on the day. Finishing behind Reffner that day were Rich Somers, John Mc Namara, Bill Mueller, Denny Sobkowiak, Kato Theissen, Buck Linhart, John Scott, Everett Fox and Harold Mueller. The Feature field consisted of 33 cars and some top drivers of the time including Jim Sauter, Jim Back and Marv Marzofka didn’t fare too well placing a ways down in the final finishing order. It wasn’t indicative of how fast they were as they all battled in the front, but wrecks and mechanical issues resulted in the poor finishes. Interesting to note is that racing was held on Friday to kick things off for the weekend with Dick Trickle capturing the Feature event that night. The Trickle name was nowhere to be found however in the Sunday 200 lap Feature results and we are curious in this corner as to why. Reffner with the win pocketed $1,000 plus $341 in lap money of the posted purse of $8,000. Each driver starting the Feature earned a minimum of $100. One pit stop for the race was mandatory with crews being allowed to add fuel. A total of 65 race cars participated with the event being open to 1955-1970 American made cars with the exception of pony cars. A pit fee of $5 was required with advanced grandstand seating available for $3. Preliminary events were held prior to the 200 lapper with Ron Backburg defeating Alan Ward, Don Dhein, Dick Bently and Bob Bowen in the first consolation race while George Kopecky outran Sonny Immerfall, Ray Slaback, Denny Clark and Curt Iverson in the 2nd. Marv Marzofka was the fast qualifier on the day. A couple other drivers probably wished they hadn’t showed up for the race as Louie Vetrone hit the wall and was taken to the hospital with possible cracked ribs. Loren Iverson was another who smacked the wall and was taken to the hospital, but he was reportedly only shaken up after the accident. When all was said and done it was reported 4,000 fans attended the event. Certainly that would indicate the event got off to an auspicious start and consequently why it is still being held, this year of course being the 42nd Annual.
Looking at some statistical information from past ‘Fests and in general at the track we find the fastest time record in qualifying in what is now known as a Super Late Model occurred on October 9th, 2009. On that day Chris Weinkauf circled the 5/8 mile oval in 18.840 seconds to hold the standard for that type of race car. The CWRA sanctioning group which raced at the track for many years finds Dick Trickle as its track record holder at 19:537. That mark was set 6/22/89. In Midwest Truck racing it is Terry Marzofka with track record honors at 20:810 set 10/10/98. Now days with so many divisions of racing participating there is plenty of history to delve into. This is just the tip of the iceberg as to what has happened through the years and maybe in future columns we can touch upon a bit more.
In our last effort we mentioned Jerry “Scratch” Daniels appearing at ‘Fest for the 2011 edition of the event. In a photo here he poses with left, Doug Wolfgang and center Jerry Richert, Sr. 1962 Knoxville, Iowa Nationals winning car owner Ted Ready. Just the mention of these folks puts Daniels in select company and it’s no wonder he is a Knoxville Raceway Hall of Fame inductee. You’ll be able to see Daniels along with Ernie Tuff and his 1932 Ford Coupe that “Scratch” last drove at the Champions Reunion held in the Hospitality Chalet from 11am-2pm October 9th, 2011 as part of this year’s Oktoberfest race weekend. Thanks to Stan Meissner for the photo.
To see how ‘Fest has grown this year’s event is 4 days and will consist of over 600 laps of Feature racing in 15 Divisions with somewhere around 500 race cars competing. La Crosse Fairgrounds track division Championships are yet to be determined at ‘Fest and it will be interesting to see if J. Herbst in NASCAR Late Models, Dan Gilster in Sportsman and Andy Moore in Thunderstox can hold their leads. As a special treat this year, Fred Nielsen who was car owner for Joe Shear and other notables for many years will make his Grand appearance at the Champions Reunion. You’ll just have to be there to see what I mean by “Grand”. Nielsen will also have Shear autograph cards for fans that attend the event. Of course we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that Shear is the only 5 time winner of Oktoberfest and the only driver to win it 3 consecutive years. The ‘Fest weekend will also have a title sponsor this year as Livewire Energy chews have come on board to sponsor the event in 2011 and 2012. The quick energy boost Livewire provides will be the perfect tonic for the weary, sleep deprived gathering that makes up the bulk of ‘Fest attendees!
Here and there…Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., held their Shootout weekend here recently with Mark Eswein and Travis Sauter taking 50 lap Feature wins. The first half century race was particularly competitive with Eswein, Chris Weinkauf and Steve Holzhausen racing nose to tail and side by side for more than half the event!... In the quote of the column department Don “Thunder” Turner was racing his Super Late Model in the Shootout event and was surprised to find a dash race named in his honor. The Don “Thunder” Turner #7 Dash featuring the day’s top qualifiers was held in honor of Turners’ over 40 years racing. “Racing today was the first I knew of it. Maybe they were thinking I died or something!” Turner’s heart was definitely beating as he placed 13th and 11th in the two Feature events respectively…Turner incidentally has also raced in every Oktoberfest race event held, all 41 of them!...Very sorry to hear of the passing of Bob Schmelzer here recently. Bob was a fixture at many tracks through the years working for various groups at events. Bob even did some promoting of his own in the ‘70s at the Columbus 151 Speedway of Columbus, WI. I always looked forward to conversing with Bob on any number of topics at various events through the years. He’d come across as being a tough even gruff sort but once you got past that crusty exterior you found a guy that was really helpful and dedicated to the sport. It just won’t be the same at the pit gate from here on in but we’ll continue to appreciate the great memories, starting with ‘Fest this year…It had been many years since I attended the Punky Manor Memorial held annually at the Red Cedar Speedway of Menomonie, WI., so it was fun to get back there for the Saturday portion of the event September 24th. Five divisions of racing were on the night’s card culminating in the big 40 lap Late Model Feature. The 3/8 mile clay oval is really racy and drivers here tonight didn’t disappoint with some very competitive racing. When all was said and done it was area resident Jimmy Mars taking the win after battling Lance Matthees for a number of laps. Jake Redetzke was 3rd followed by A.J Diemel and Mike Prochnow. In looking at some of these last names I remember when their cousins, uncles and fathers were racing. Generation to generation, racing truly is a family sport. I’m amazed at what the Modifieds these days are turning for lap speeds. Buzzy Adams ( Of course I remember watching his dad Dave race and win years ago.) was bad fast in his taking the Modified Feature win in convincing fashion here during the Manor race. Mars hopped in the 428 modified but was no match for Adams placing 2nd. Shawn Huse used a very late race pass to take the win in the Midwest Modified feature which ended up being the most exciting of the night. George Richards won the Pure stock feature in a race that was yellow flag plagued and drastically shortened. It’s too bad as the event was shaping up to be a dandy with no less than 4 cars battling in front…In closing, many thanks to Jim Cleveland who has done a ton of research on past asphalt racing in the state of which the early info on Oktoberfest for this column was obtained…
Photos. Jerry “Scratch” Daniels in select company. Joe Shear the only 5 time winner of Oktoberfest in his Fred Nielsen Camaro of 1979. Marshfield Shootout Feature winners Mark Eswein and Travis Sauter. Don “Thunder” Turner #7.
Any drivers that are still interested in attending the Champions Reunion during Oktoberfest you have time to sign up. If you are a past series or track champion in any division and haven’t raced in the last three years you are eligible. If you are a previous ‘Fest feature winner in any division you are also welcome to attend. State your intentions by contacting Dale P. Danielski at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com We also have a Facebook page titled Champions Reunion III that you may respond to or go to www.starmakermultimedi.com for information.
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
September 1, 2011
Having been to so many different race tracks through the years it’s always interesting to have a look at some that held events in the past but were shuttered for whatever reason. Most leave very little or no sign they even existed but with some you can see a bit of what they once were and the action that took place.
We found one such track here recently as the Cannon River Speedway which shut down in the late 1970s, located just outside Morristown, MN., has left a bit of it’s past behind. Unless you knew exactly where the track was you’d be hard pressed to find it as it is tucked away through woods off highway 60. It today is actually part of the Maiden Rock West campground. The track originally was listed as a 3/8 mile Tri-Oval and in my nosing around you can still make out that configuration. The corners were supposedly banked 17 degrees and there’s still a fair amount of that you can see on each end. It’s always fun to imagine what racing might have been like at a long gone track and here they aren’t totally forgetting about it as a number of newspaper clippings and posters are displayed at the campground. How cool it would have been to watch Larry Behrens, Mert Williams, Dave Noble and the numerous others mentioned in the literature racing here on a hot summer night.
Looking back further in time in racing it is going to be a lot of fun welcoming top notch sprint car driver Jerry “Scratch” Daniels to the Champions Reunion October 9th as part of the 42nd Annual Livewire Oktoberfest racing action at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI. Jerry was a 1st rate driver in his day and because of his success was inducted into the Knoxville Iowa Raceway Hall of Fame. Daniels actually raced and won at the Fairgrounds in West Salem in the 1960s when it was still a dirt track. “Scratch” even raced for Ernie Tuff who is also going to be at the Reunion along with his 1932 Ford 3 window coupe race car.
Daniels who was no stranger racing elsewhere throughout the Midwest actually began his career in 1955 at the tender young age of just 15! He began racing the ultra fast Sprint cars in 1961 and proceeded to carve out a great career in them racing for a number of top car owners who provided competitive equipment. Before the Sprint cars Daniels got latched up with Ernie Tuff where they raced Tuff’s Fords at a number of area tracks including the North La Crosse Speedbowl. According to Daniels, “ Jerry (Richert, another great race driver and who Daniels was good friends with.) said call Ernie, he’s looking for a driver to race his car. I did, and that’s how we met. I drove for him in 1958-’59, and we did really well. The car I raced at North La Crosse was unbelievable! It was easy to win with that car.” And because of it the two traveled to other tracks. “We could make $800 on a weekend racing. That was good money back then. As a driver I got 40% of that so it was a $320 payday! I enjoyed racing for Ernie, that guy was a mechanical genius!”
As with all drivers back in the day there is always a story or two behind given nicknames. According to Daniels the name came from some friends and his brother who was also a pretty fair driver.. “My brother actually had the nickname “Itch” which he got when we were at a beer party and underage when the cops came sending everyone including us running through a field to get away. When we got home my brother was itching himself all over from something in that field. His nickname was now “Itch”. One day we all got together and heard an old country music song that was talking about itching and scratching. So us being brothers and one already nicknamed “Itch”, I became “Scratch”.
Of course racing isn’t always as glamorous as it seems and after racing all over the country and dealing with his brother being severely injured in a racing accident in Huron, ND., the two decided to quit. “They didn’t know if he was going to live or die it was so bad. He did survive but I was getting tired of all the travel and being away from family anyway so it seemed like a good time to quit. Maybe if I’d have been a contracted driver racing for someone else I’d have stayed with it, but since I wasn’t it was time to quit.”
In addition, just walking away after competing in the rough and tumble 1950s and ‘60s days of racing like Daniels did is a victory in itself! Daniels has lived to tell about it and certainly there will be many more stories shared when he and Ernie Tuff and up to 75 other drivers get together for Champions Reunion III during Oktoberfest October 9th.
Here and there…There is still a form of competition going on at Cannon River Speedway as it is part of a Disc Golf course. According to Maiden Rock West campground ownership it is a very challenging course and one and all are invited over to conquer it!.. It was one of the most competitive feature races to date at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway here August 20th as Steve Carlson and J. Herbst duked it out for the win. The two raced side by side for numerous laps with neither giving an inch before Herbst was finally able to eke out a close win. Carlson finished 2nd and was followed by Jerimy Wagner, Nick Clements and Matt Henderson. It was also great to see Albert Locy race to a career best 10th place in that same race. The team has shown steady improvement on a very limited budget and all that effort paid off tonight…The ASA Midwest Tour saw another new winner grace victory lane in 2011 as Nathan Haseleu took the 125 lap main event win at Raceway Park of Shakopee, MN., here August 21st. Following Haseleu who also won this event last year were Chris Wimmer, Fast qualifier Nick Panitzke, Andrew Morrissey, Michael Bilderback, Jacob Goede, Steve Carlson, Skylar Holzhausen, Griffin McGrath and Nick Murgic…Ross Kenseth was very conspicuously absent from this event due to college orientation?...We had auto golf and the pool jump here recently in novelty type events at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway and Late Model drivers were the major players in both. Matt Henderson used a car to hit a golf ball, which was actually more like a beach ball, placed on top of a cone closest to the pin on a golf green constructed in the infield of the track. As you might have guessed this is no easy task but Henderson did it better than the other drivers in the very unique competition and won the top prize! In the August 27th night of racing at the track Todd Korish attempted to drive a street car via a ramp over two swimming pools filled with water. He skimmed over the top of the first and for the most part drove through the second one sending water flying everywhere. Rather than take a second shot at clearing them, he decided to drive the car without the ramp right through what was left of both pools sending what was left of the water again flying! There is never a loss for excitement generating events here at the track and these two definitely had folks wondering what might happen next!...Brent Kirchner took the NASCAR Late Model Feature win August 27th holding off a persistent Brad Powell in the process. For Kirchner it was main event win number 4 here and if not for a couple too many feature race altercations he could well be in the driver’s seat for the track championship. As it now stands it will be a battle between J. Herbst and Korish who are first and second separated by just 25 points with two point’s races remaining…Also on this night Tom Luethe took his first career feature win in the Thunderstox division feature grabbing the lead with less than a lap left in the race! Quote of the column comes from Steve Carlson after a close finish with J. Herbst at La Crosse Fairgrounds. “I had a 10th place car and with the cone, I like the cone, we got 2nd.” Of course Carlson who was mired deep in the pack was talking about being able to move all the way up to 2nd on a race restart on the outside of J. Herbst due to the double file “construction cone” restarts…Back in history on August 21st, 1970 it was #61 Jim Back winning the 30 lap Feature race at La Crosse Interstate Speedway. Tom Reffner #88, Jim Sauter #5 and Roy Schmidtke #76 followed. 20 lap Semi Feature honors went to #1 Pete Mahlum followed by #9 Tom Schaller, #58 Buck Linhart and #60 Ralph Bakewell. Heat race victors were Linhart, Mahlum and Sauter with Jim Back posting the fastest time.
Photos. A view of the Cannon River Speedway as it looks today. Nate Haseleu at speed here used his extensive experience racing at the short oval Jefferson, WI., Speedway to win here at the ¼ mile Raceway Park track. J. Herbst won the feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds August 20th.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
August 18, 2011
By Dale P. Danielski
It’s been rather slim pickings in the race chasing category lately but we have made some observances none the less.
The ASA Midwest Tour has certainly been a competitive one in 2011 at least in terms of numerous main event winners. The year began with Ross Kenseth looking like he was going to make a shambles of the points battle taking the first two Tour wins, but since then others seem to have caught up with the young upstart. Kenseth does currently have three wins but Tim Schendel, Mark Mackesy, Jason Weinkauf, Skylar Holzhausen, Jeff Choquette, and Jon Eilen have also grabbed victories. What’s certainly somewhat odd is that multiple series champion Steve Carlson has not won yet nor has Andrew Morrissey who is leading the point standings with 3 races to go. Perennial racing up front drivers Nate Haseleu and Chris Wimmer havn’t graced victory lane in 2011 yet either. Is the younger set making a power and supremacy move in the series? That will definitely be determined with some extremely tough to win at venues coming up to end the season. The first of those is at Raceway Park, Shakopee, MN., August 21 which is a super difficult to navigate, reasonably flat ¼ mile bull ring. A lot can be lost as well as gained racing in this event. New this year is the National Short Track Champions October 2 at Rockford Speedway, Rockford, IL., which carries ASA Midwest Tour sanction for the first time. Anyone that has been around racing even in the slightest knows about Rockford, one of the toughest tracks to race on in the entire U.S. More than likely this event will humble some that feel they have a handle on things while others will emerge out of the dust and smoke with a good finish or even a win here. And the season all culminates with one of the longest running, tradition rich, Annual events going today, Oktoberfest October 6-9 at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway of West Salem, WI. Anything can happen and usually does at the ‘Fest and when all is said and done the ASA Midwest Tour, 2011 Champion will be crowned. Hard to believe the season is fast winding down but there is plenty of action to be observed heading down the stretch. The ASA Midwest Tour will certainly be providing a good share of it.
Here and there…It had to feel awfully good for Jonathan Eilen to be standing in victory lane at Hawkeye Downs Speedway, Cedar Rapids, Iowa after his ASA Midwest Tour victory August 12. This was the same event and track that after a hard lick with the wall sent Eilen to the hospital and into extensive rehab for a broken back! Eilen didn’t let the crash deter him as he came back in impressive fashion to win the 100 lap headliner here tonight…Mike Carlson picked up his first NASCAR Late Model Feature win of 2011 at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway August 6th and he did it by fighting off Dad Steve at the finish. On a race restart Dad lined up outside of Mike and most in attendance at that point figured it was all over for the youngster. Not so as Mike pulled away and Steve was forced to settle for 2nd place money. Dad was however the first to congratulate his son on a job “Well done” after the race…Speaking of the younger set group of drivers, we find relative newcomers Matt Henderson, 5th, Mike Carlson 6th, Cole Howland, 7th, Nick Clements, 9th and Jes Tenner 10th in current NASCAR Late Model point standings at Lax Fairgrounds with barely a handful of races left in the season. Just outside the top ten is top rookie contender, Michael Sauter in 11th. It could be some of that changing of the guard in racing is taking place here as well…August 13th at Ye Olde Lax Speedway found a full moon lighting up the night sky. It apparently had an effect on drivers tonight as well as numerous cautions spiced up things in all divisions of racing. Steve Carlson wasn’t concerned about the moon as he used it as a beacon to lead the way in the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature. Todd Korish gave it a good run but wound up a close 2nd. The Korish finish once again tightened up the points battle as J. Herbst who placed 6th tonight leads Korish by just 19 points. It’s beginning to look like it could be a two car race to the track championship as Shawn Pfaff and Brent Kirchner have lost some ground on the two with just four points races left…With Bill Niles still out with back problems Kevin Nuttleman piloted car 54 in tonight’s program. No Fairy Tale ending here though as Nuttleman finished 12th in the main event but still remains the all time feature winner at the track with 106 wins…The Inglett clan was out in full force in the grandstands this past Saturday at Lax and they were loud! They had good reason to be as their favorite driver Matt Inglett held off Jimmy Gilster for the 15 lap Sportsman Feature…The thriving metropolis of Leon, WI., was well represented tonight as Dan Linnehan who lives there won the Outlawz feature event. Linnehan’s racing appearances have been minimal but he looked in top form tonight! Although Dustin Bagstad has been suspended from competition in the Thunderstox Division for now, he still sure did a great job singing the National Anthem at the track tonight.
Back in history, during the week of August 11-14, 1970 at La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI., Jim Sauter was on a bit of a hot streak. Sauter captured the 30 lap feature event at the track on August 11, followed by Marv Marzofka, George Thornton, Everett Fox and Ed Nichols. Sauter followed that win up with another 30 lap victory on the 14th . Interesting to note that both Jim Back who was leading and Dick Trickle in 2nd fell out of that race on the 29th lap leaving Sauter all alone in 1st! And, since we are in the midst of a slow column day. a bit more history. On August 6th, 1971 Don James #76 from Bloomington, MN., captured the 20 lap Feature event at La Crosse Interstate. He was followed by Lyle Nabbefeldt #55s and Jim Back #61. Semi-Feature honors went to Buck Linhart #58 with Dale Pennel #2 and Dale Walworth #83 in pursuit. 1st heat winner was #6 Ed Nichols the 2nd went to #40 John Scott with the 3rd to #15 Rich Somers. James also won the fast dash. Quote of the column, “It just figures the only place it’s raining in the area is right over the race track.” That from Dale P. Danielski who with his wife who doesn’t catch that many races these days were just heading out the door for action at Mississippi Thunder Speedway in Fountain City, WI. only to find the event had moments before been canceled due to a storm cell right over the race track!
Photos. #50 Mike Carlson at speed at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Jim Sauter Nova that he raced to a 4th place feature finish on the day at Wisconsin International, Kaukauna, WI. in 1973. Interesting to note he had to change the number to #51 instead of his normal #5. Who could possibly with that number have had precedent over Sauter’s established number 5? #76 Don James one of the Minnesota travelers that raced the Wisconsin circuit in the 1970s.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
August 4, 2011
Although I couldn’t attend the event this past week at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI. the scheduling of it brought back many memories of the man and racer the Memorial race is named after; Larry Detjens.
The majority of Detjens’ career took place in the 1970s until sadly in 1981 he was killed in a racing accident. Detjens packed a lot of racing and success into a short period of time but it’s still a terrible shame his life was cut so short.
Larry began racing in the Wausau area in the Hobbystock division but it wasn’t long thereafter however that he was piloting a Dodge Coronet in Late Model competition. What immediately set Detjens apart from most of the others was the appearance of his race car. Purple in color with extreme detail in both the painting and lettering of it. It was something folks weren’t used to seeing as cars racing 4-6 days a week would get pretty beat up looking. This also was in the days of all paint, no vinyl for lettering or wraps. Most amazing, was Larry kept his cars looking that way the entire season! We later learned that Larry was the owner of Detjens Body Shop in Wausau, WI., and we realized where the work was being done and the race car maintained. It certainly couldn’t have been too bad for his business either!
Almost as unique as the race cars themselves in those days were the haulers drivers brought them in on. Of course enclosed trailers hadn’t even been thought about yet so the open variety was the way to go in many cases. Larry at one point did have a trailer of that type but what was really cool was what he used to pull it. The best way I can describe it is a mini wrecker! A Dodge pick-up of some kind which was Larry’s vehicle manufacturer preference, with 4 wheel drive and a boom and hook in the back. The unit couldn’t have had a wheel base of more than 90 inches and when it was packed up for racing the front end was practically off the ground! There was no mistaking it was Larry showing up at the race track as in addition to the aforementioned the cool wrecker thing was bright yellow to boot! With fuel prices being low I guess burning up a bit more with a 4x4 unit traveling all around the State wasn’t a concern either.
Something else that set Detjens apart from others and certainly his finest attribute, was how well he handled pressure under fire. No matter how bad things seemed to be going Larry was able better than nearly everyone to keep it all in perspective. He’d say, “When things are going bad, that’s when you build character.” Tom Reffner vouched for Detjens’ even disposition. “When all of us racers would be getting down in the mouth about other drivers or things going on Larry would just be the same Larry.” Speaking of disposition, I can remember a certain racer and his crew banging away at trying to get a shock removed from the mounting on a race car and getting madder by the minute. Larry walked by and said, “Wait a minute and in short order he returned with the proper tool to do the job. Added to that he helped with a couple set up tips to make the car better and said, “If you ever need any other help just ask.” That driver was me and I never forgot that day at the Wausau track.
Larry was never the most prolific winner of feature events but he was a master when it came to the long distance race. He had a way of pacing himself and hiding on the track until it was time to go. At that point he’d use all the reserve he still had in the car and win going away from competitors who had nothing left for the end. His smooth calculating style resulted in big paying wins in the Nashville 500, at the Minnesota Fair as well as in California, Florida, Nevada, Missouri, Illinois and of course Wisconsin where he took numerous 50 and 100 lap wins.
It’s ironic and sad that while in the midst of his winningest season and the chance to move into NASCAR racing his life ended. With 22 Feature wins heading into August in his Packerland Packing Dennis Frings Chassis Camaro his next scheduled event was at the Wisconsin International Raceway of Kaukauna for an ARTGO event. Forgotten by many is the fact that a disagreement had taken place and Detjens was back in a Bemco Camaro for the event. Without a lot of time in the car he didn’t qualify as well as he had been, lining up on the front row for the first 50 lap feature. Setting a torrid pace at the outset Larry and Alan Kulwicki raced side by side for 14 laps with neither giving an inch. Kulwicki thought he was far enough inside Detjens at that point with the two making contact which sent Detjen’s car into the inside guard rail on the backstretch. The wreck looked reasonably harmless but it wasn’t, as the end of the guard rail went right through the side of Detjens car inflicting fatal internal injuries to the driver. Having been taken to an area hospital, by 9:25 pm that night it was announced Larry Detjens had died.
It was one of the few times during that period in racing that I remained in the pit area for an entire race program, usually opting to sit in the grandstands for the feature finals. On this occasion I wish I hadn’t, as I was in the immediate area where the incident took place and witnessed it very plainly.
It took a long time for many to forgive Kulwicki for what they saw as over aggressive driving especially so early in the race in going for the lead and causing the contact between the two. Some never have. Somehow I don’t think Larry Detjens would have felt that way even though at just 37 years of age his racing career which was actually really just about to begin and now his life had ended. With George Gillett involvement, discussion had taken place that Detjens was headed to NASCAR’s top division for the next season. Most of us had caught wind of at least something happening for Detjens and were extremely excited knowing his long race prowess would prove him successful at that level. Furthermore is the fact NASCAR was really just starting to become the media monster and money making machine it is today and having someone from our neck of the woods do well would have greatly served the Midwest in showing it had quality talent in racing. It just wasn’t to be.
But gladly, Larry Detjens’ memory lives on in the event held at State Park Speedway fittingly near his home town and now owned and operated by the Wimmer family including father Ron and racing sons Scott and Chris. And maybe after all, even in death, Detjens positive, optimistic disposition and success so many years ago has paved the way for others in racing in the Midwest. Scott Wimmer has tasted success at the top levels of NASCAR and Chris is carving out a nice career of his own. Their uncle Larry Detjens sure would have been proud.
Here and there…Steve Carlson who hasn’t shown his age racing but must have had a bout of it in his daily life was unable to compete here recently at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway due to back issues. He lent the car he normally drives to Tim Schendel who placed 3rd and 2nd respectively in the two 20 lap NASCAR Features on the night. Not to be outdone in his return he won the 25 lap feature July 23rd…15 year old Michael Sauter, son of Jay has had his ups and downs at the speedway this year, but things were definitely on the upside here July 16th as he captured his first ever NASCAR Late Model win taking the first preliminary event on the night…Dustin Bagstad definitely had a different approach in the Novelty Outhouse race held at the speedway. Instead of hopping out of his car and quickly heading over to grab a sheet of toilet paper as is required for the event he went around to the other side of his race car and picked up a newspaper! Taking it in with him to the outhouse it took track announcer Dan Deicher after a fair amount of time had elapsed, sneaking a peak inside to get him out of the John! It must have been some good La Crosse Tribune reading keeping Bagstad detained. He definitely didn’t win the event with the effort where speed is a necessity…NASCAR Late Model competitor Albert Locy has battled an electrical problem nearly all season. A distributor pick up failed for a 3rd time which really has the team searching… J.Herbst solidified his NASCAR Late Model points lead with his 4th Feature win here Saturday night. Herbst can thank NASCAR driver Kenny Schrader who was a guest at the speedway on the night for assisting as he drew the invert number that put J. on the pole for the race!...Shawn Pfaff stayed close in 2nd in the points race even though he was forced to use a backup car here tonight...With a little extra money on the line in the Darius Pettibone 20 lap Sportsman feature tonight everyone was definitely more racey. Cars were loose and sideways for much of the race and in most cases amazingly great saves were made before necessitating a caution flag! What was all the fuss about? $1,000 to win the race that’s what. Jimmy Gilster ran a smart race and very happily took home the grand with a late race pass of Jamie Dummer…Jordan Myers was a happy guy tonight as the rookie driver took home his first ever Thunderstox feature win… And in racing history, on August 26th, 1971 it was season championship night at State Park Speedway where Dick Trickle won the 50 lap feature event followed by Tom Reffner, Larry Detjens, Marv Marzofka and Bill Wirtz. The 25 lap Semi-feature winner was Dick Bentley, followed by Chuck Cherek and Terry Semrow. Heat race winners were Sonny Immerfall, Bentley and Trickle with the Trophy Dash going to Marlin Walbeck. Fast Qualifier was Jim Back at 14:97 around the ¼ mile recently repaved track. Over $4,000 was offered in purse pay-out with $500 going to Trickle for his Feature win. An “overflow” crowd attended the event the last of the 1971 season at the track…
Photos. #25 Larry Detjens in his Packerland Packing Frings Camaro at the Milwaukee Mile in 1981.Photo from the past. Detjens in 1973 with his Dodge Challenger being towed by the mini-wrecker. Chris Wimmer nephew to Larry Detjens at Speed at State Park Speedway this year.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
July 21 2011
By Dale P. Danielski
No one really asked me, but…
Why were there only 27 cars for the big $10,000 to win ASA Midwest Tour race at Elko Speedway, Elko, MN. July 8-9? I would have thought a number of outsiders would have taken a shot at a payday we seldom see in asphalt short track racing. As it turns out if you showed up you were in the show and guaranteed the $1,100 starting money. Skylar Holzhausen was glad he made it as he took home the 250 lap win and a cool $10,000. It’s reported his hometown of Bangor, WI., is still rockin’…How did things get so out of hand at tracks that everyone is selling their own tires and spending thousands of dollars on impound buildings to insure no one can cheat? What happened to being able to use tires you raced at other tracks, same compound and all, so traveling at least once in awhile could take place? No wonder fields continue to dwindle at speedways hosting the Super Late Model Division, who can afford that!…If NASCAR decides to have a competition yellow at 30 laps of a race as they did at Kentucky recently do fans get a % of their ticket purchased back? After all that’s only fair since they weren’t really racing up to that point and the yellow flag was not due to an incident, weather, or of course the now you see it now you don’t infamous debris…The worst thing a dirt track can do is run its top billed attraction last when the track is worn out and one groove. Many spend 45 minutes to an hour farming the track which sometimes helps, then run four support division features before the main again wearing it out. Most do it this way and the only thing I can figure is they are trying to sell more hotdogs and beer, because obviously this is not what fans come to see, right?…La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., ran their normal full program of racing here on a recent Saturday night which included driver intros and a novelty event in 2 hours and 25 minutes. They do have full fields of cars in 3-5 divisions as well. They also draw between 2,000-3,000 fans on a weekly basis. This is what fans come to see, continuous racing, right?...In the what’s in a name category pertaining to creating fan interest, why would you list a racing division as limited? Limited Sprints. Limited Late Models. How exciting is that! If I’m looking to attend an event those titles aren’t doing much to entice me to the show. Same with B Mods or Economy Mods. That’s down the list in the alphabet from A Mod so it can’t be too good, right? Micro anything. Micro as in microscopic? That means I won’t be able to see it without the use of special equipment? Mini anything isn’t much better unless it’s mini-donuts which I really enjoy! Perception people, create excitement with your racing divisions. Might as well say slow cars going in a circle if you’re going to go this type of division naming route…Apparently the dirt World is suffering through tire softening issues as well. One of Wisconsin’s favorites, Jimmy Mars was questioned for that after a recent $30,000 win. Was even reportedly subjected to a lie detector test on the issue. A lie detector test, is that legal? I think we’ve definitely crossed the reason and sanity line here, but where there’s that much money it was bound to happen I guess. Maybe it’s time to put a claim on tires and let the racers have at it as NASCAR has done. Wait a minute, have at it isn’t working in NASCAR so it probably won’t work here either!..Speaking of NASCAR is it just me or has the value of the Nationwide Series been totally diminished? What little identity it had is gone especially with Kyle Busch or other Cup drivers winning everything…It took me a long time to find the various track results I was looking for here recently on the internet. Talk about labor intensive. Some of what I found was dated from 2 years ago! It was always so nice to find it all in a racing publication(s)…Conservative, Liberal, Tea Party, Protest Candidate, Transparency, enough already of the titles and terms. How about compromise, compromise and compromise some more for a better Country representing the people that voted you in. Not sure where that came from in a racing column…OK, so what deems this scribe the knowledgeable or even expert on all these topics. Well, no one really asked me, but…
Here and there…With two 20 lap Features contested at La Crosse Fairgrounds July 16th during the Fair the points battle at La Crosse Fairgrounds changed once again. J. Herbst is now back in front just barely, after winning one of the 20 lap events. It was also his 3rd of the year here. Brent Kirchner got himself back in the hunt with his 3rd win in the second 20 lapper…Good to see long time competitor Tim Nelson get a hard earned 3rd place finish in the 2nd 20 while relative newcomer Jes Tenner scored a career best with a 5th place finish in that race…Some ex-racers have a hard time staying away from the racetrack. Kevin Nuttleman could be found manning a 50/50 booth here during Fair week racing… Nick Clements got it right this time. The Rookie NASCAR Late Model driver at La Crosse Fairgrounds won the Feature July 9th at the track and was legal. A ride height issue negated a good finish in an earlier event but that wasn’t going to happen again!...Good to see Caledonia, MN., Sportsman driver Rob Mason pick up the feature win here at Lax July 9th. Mason who has numerous dirt tracks in close proximity to where he lives instead has chosen paved racing. It paid off with a big win here tonight…Ralph Cottone who picked up a win in a Sportsman race recently has announced this will be his last year racing. Ralph has been at it a long time but of course we have heard drivers say these things before!
Quote of the column. “My parents weren’t here to see me win they’re in Alaska, that stinks, so now I’ll just have to do it again.” Nick Clements comment after winning the feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds.
Back on this date in 1971 it was Marv Marzofka, Nekoosa, WI., winning the 20 lap Feature at La Crosse Interstate Speedway of West Salem, WI. The #91 of Marzofka was followed by #99 Larry Behrens and #57 Larry Anderson. The Semi-Feature winner was #13 Don Grant with heat wins going to #36 Fred Beckler, #8 Lyle Nabbefeldt and Anderson. Trophy Dash winner was Rich Somers.
Photos. Nick Clements in his NASCAR Late Model #08 racing in 2011. Nick Clements racing in the Sportsman Division in 2008. #70 Jerry Smith pavement car in 1973. Smith was one driver that fared quite well crossing over and racing on pavement although the wins on dirt surfaces in North Eastern Wisconsin occurred more frequently. Known as “Medina” Smith for his hometown of Medina, WI., to differentiate between another racing Smith, Jerry (J.J.) Smith also from that area.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
July 7 2011
Heading into the ASA Midwest Tour event at State Park Speedway here June 24th a name you probably wouldn’t have put on the list as a true threat to win was Mark Mackesy. A consistent finisher and a win here and there at area tracks through the years is pretty much what Mackesy has been all about. Racing on a limited budget and at fewer events than most would also keep his name off that special event winners list. But that’s why you contest the races and also why fans attend, because you just never know.
Mark Mackesy did indeed win the ASA Tour event 150 lap Feature on Flip Merwin Memorial night at the track and after he pulled into victory lane the applause was deafening with just about every soul in the jam packed grandstand cracking a smile over what was a huge upset win.
The Mackesy name has been involved for many years in racing with Father Bob racing in the 1960s through the ‘80s and Mom Barb a big part of it through the Women Concerned for Racing group. They’ve taken their racing seriously but more importantly have enjoyed the journey as much as the successes along the way. That has definitely rubbed off on Mark as he is one of the most happy go lucky guys on race night at the track. And again because of that attitude no one showed their displeasure at his winning this, the biggest victory of his career.
Mackesy didn’t fall into the win with a bizarre happening or bad luck by others either. Qualifying 5th among the 30 racers in attendance, Mackesy drew the 8th spot for the 150 lap main. Not dropping back like a rock as some may have predicted, Mackesy actually made rapid progress forward! With race long leader Bryan Reffner the last car in his sites Mackesy bided his time finally making his move with 30 laps or so left with an inside pass for the lead. From there on there was no catching the Wausau, WI. driver as he cruised to the huge win. Some you may have predicted to win did fill out the top 10 with Andrew Morrissey, Jacob Goede, Ross Kenseth, Reffner, Nate Haseleu, Jon Eilen, Tim Sauter, Ben Pettis and Griffin McGrath following in that order. However, on this day it was a win for the little guy, the racer that has done his time and finally breaks through for a career win. Mark Mackesy was that guy on this night!
With Mackesy taking a huge win it was like lightening striking twice as Jason Weinkauf came through with a career win in the ASA Midwest Tour event at the Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI. here July 2nd. Again as with the Mackesy win there was nothing cheap or lucky about the victory as Weinkauf took the lead on lap 14 and had rather comfortable sailing the rest of the way. Interesting to note that Weinkauf almost didn’t even compete in the event as the car he was supposed to drive had engine trouble and wasn’t going to be ready in time. Race team owner Jay VanderGeest solved that problem by offering the car he normally drives. The combination worked and the rest is history as they say. Nick Murgic made the 100 lap feature finish here at Marshfield reasonably close but ended up 2nd. He was followed by Tim Schendel, Andrew Morrissey, Travis Sauter, fast qualifier Jacob Goede, Jonathan Eilen, Skylar Holzhausen, Matt Tift and Steve Carlson. Here and there…Some days you’re right on it and some you’d just as soon have stayed home. Bryan Reffner and Collin Reffner comfortably qualified into the show at Wausau and raced competitively while at Marshfield neither one made it into the feature…Steve Holzhausen and Eugene Gregorich Jr made their ASA Midwest Tour 2011 debuts at Marshfield with mixed results. Holzhausen set 3rd fastest time but fell out of the feature with mechanical issues. Gregorich Jr. also got in the 100 lapper but was none too pleased with his race car. “I don’t get scared going into a corner but with this car I am because I don’t know what it’s going to do!” Gregorich Jr., pulled out of the event after completing 78 laps…Neil Knoblock who made an appearance at Marshfield for the event stated that his previous notes didn’t help much this time around. “I’ve been fast here and believe me I have good notes on the set up here. But with these tires were running it didn’t help at all, everything is changed.” Knoblock made the feature but was a non factor in the event…Jon Eilen had fast time honors on the night at State Park Speedway as he bested the 30 car field around the ¼ mile oval in 13:834 seconds…Jacob Goede completed an amazing feature run in 3rd place moving all the way up from 18th…Another area racer had a good run at Wausau as Ben Pettis in the Redline Motorsports entry placed 9th in the main event…In asking Mackesy if racing at State Park Speedway, his home track would offer any advantage he replied, “Maybe a little, but these guys are catching up fast.” Upon further inquiry of any advantage Mackesy stated, “But we’re ready though, we’ve got a cooler full of beer and we’ll have some fun!”…In discussing why fans these days seem to get more into dirt racing events than asphalt Michael Bilderback had some thoughts. “Dirt racing always has more grooves and paved racing seems a little boring compared to that. I also think shorter races might be a little more exciting for the fans. There’s no reason we need to run 150 laps at a track like this. (State Park Speedway.) Give us a 50 lap race and let us have at it.” Bilderback as it turns out wished the race here was shorter as he fell out of the main event with just 37 laps left while in 3rd position!...With the big $10,000 to win Feature event pay-day coming up in the ASA Tour race at Elko, MN., Speedway July 8-9th some observers are wondering what potential outside of the rules equipment might be tried to win the event. Discussion has taken place that softening of tires and traction control devices already exist in paved Super Late Model racing creating huge advantages. As one person stated if you can’t find it is it legal? Maybe if these types of things can’t be found they should be made legal which in turn may very well create cost effectiveness and allow everyone to utilize them. Just what would the negative consequences be at that point?...Brent Kirchner has turned things around at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway as he raced to his second consecutive 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature win here June 25th…Harley Jankowski who has looked very good racing in the Late Model Division at Lax Fairgrounds this year received the best news recently that he possibly could. A Kidney donor emerged providing a match for the young driver and he’ll at last be able to live a reasonably normal life again. The transplant took place here a week or so ago which will put Jankowski out of competition for the rest of the season. A small price to pay in getting back to normalcy… Got talking some old times in racing with Tom Reffner who was at State Park Speedway helping son Bryan and grandson Collin at the ASA Tour event there. Tom mentioned one trip where they raced in at least 4 States and one other Country during a stretch of 9 races in 9 days! According to Tom, “I got thinking about that one day and wondered, did we really do that? According to Tom the money was good at the time and it was quite common to be on the road racing for days on end. Trips to Missouri, Indiana, Ohio, Canada and back to Wisconsin all within a week or so weren’t unusual. Best of all for them, most of the time the Wisconsin bunch ended up bringing back the majority of the loot when they went on such adventures!...Car owner for Chris and Jason Weinkauf and racer himself, Jay VanDerGeest could be found at the controls checking out a 277B Cat loader while at State Park for the ASA show. When asked if that’s how he got to the track his answer, “Absolutely, it’s faster than my race car was here two weeks ago!”… There was one open trailer with a Super Late Model on it at the ASA show at Wausau. The car being hauled in on it just happened to end up in victory lane after 150 laps of racing as Mark Mackesy pulled the upset win...The most mild mannered, unassuming driver picked up a big win here at Lax Fairgrounds June 25th in the Thunderstox Feature. As a matter of fact if you saw him on the street you’d never guess he likes making left turns and going really fast at the track We’re talking about Dustin Bagstad son of former racer Jeff and relation to regular Late Model competitor Tony. There was nothing unassuming or mild however about his super exciting last turn of the last lap pass for the win here Saturday night!...Quote of the column comes from Tom Reffner. “We could have put a kill switch in the car, it would have taken 5 minutes. We didn’t the throttle hung up and I went right off the end into the trees. Everybody said you could see the trees shaking where the car went in. Wrecked a car that night.” Reffner was describing his throttle sticking and going off turn one at State Park Speedway in 1984 with his brand new race car. That was back when trees lined 2/3 of the track, long before walls were put up.
Photos. Bob Mackesy puts his car #12 through its paces at State Park Speedway in 1984. Mark Mackesy #12 back when we both had hair takes a win in 1989 at the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI. Jason Weinkauf battling Steve Holzhausen in the #23 that Jay VanDerGeest couldn’t find the speed in at an earlier event.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
June 23 2011
By Dale P. Danielski
Success stories in racing are few and far between compared to normal every day occupations and that’s why it’s nice to be able to report on one now and then. Dan Navrestad of DCA Racing & Fabrication, La Crosse, WI., is one such success story.
Having grown up on a farm in Westby, WI., Navrestad was exposed to the tough farm life early on. He realized to make life easier he’d have to learn how things mechanical worked and how to fix them. “I enjoyed building things and I learned that while working on the farm. You couldn’t afford to have someone else doing that maintenance for you so we’d work with what we had and cobble things, as they say together, to keep going.” As it turns out that experience really paid off and eventually I became a mechanic in La Crosse.”
“I bought tools from George Roders, a supplier in the area who was involved in racing and that’s where it all started. It was a great opportunity for me meeting George as he encouraged me to try things knowing I could do it. I did prove to myself I could build and fabricate things and at that time I just took it and ran with it.”
After working on Roders’ racing equipment which consisted of drag and road racing cars for a year and a half Navrestad met stock car driver Mike Belling. “After helping Mike for a couple years and meeting a lot of nice people I decided to give it a try myself, that was in 1984. I had a lot of fun racing and I think I was a decent driver, but still being interested in building things I decided I was a better fabricator than driver so I started my own business. Plus, at that time, which was 1989 I had gotten married and there just wasn’t time to do all that racing like I had. That’s when DCA Racing & Fabrication was born.”
“Having met so many people in racing and driving myself it just made sense that I would conduct business with that crowd. The fact I did drive really helped me to understand the racers needs and without that knowledge there is no way I would have been as successful.”
Again with financially successful longevity in the sport of racing no easy feat how has Dan Navrestad maintained. “The big thing is not to go too far in debt. I was fortunate, I already had a lot of tools and equipment before I started in business and that’s the key, not going so far in debt you have nothing left to operate off of. That’s especially the case in the racing business with margins on parts and labor so small.”
Of course with changes in race cars and trends in the sport unpredictable, adapting to what’s out there and taking advantage of opportunities are also key elements to remaining solvent. “The sport is getting so expensive it’s tough for guys to compete. It’s especially tough for the young guys to get interested knowing in some cases just to get on the track with a car is going to cost them $10,000 or more. I’ve worked with the stock car group for the most part but I’m seeing an upswing in business in drag racing. I think it’s due to consistent rules coast to coast and the fact it’s more affordable. Being more diversified and working on road course cars and hot rods has helped keep me going too.”
And just where does Dan Navrestad of DCA Racing & Fabrication envision himself a year, 5, or even 10 years down the road? “For 22 years I’ve been making a living on other people’s toys. If you asked me 20 years ago if I’d thought this was possible I’d have said it couldn’t happen. I’ll keep doing this as long as I’m able. Eventually I’d like to cut back to 3-4 days a week. I know I’ll always be building something though, maybe one of these days I’ll be able to build a toy for me instead of for everyone else!”
I’ve likened success and longevity in racing to farming or being a rock star. It’s high risk and the day could come at any time when your career in it is over. That’s why its great to see when someone does make it work. Dan Navrestad of DCA Racing & Fabrication is one such success story we can continue to talk about.
Here and there…Brad Powell made his NASCAR Late Model debut June 11 at
La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., and promptly set fast time of 19:727. That’s just short of a 100 mile per hour average around the big 5/8 mile paved oval…One more lap. That’s what Todd Korish was hoping for as Late Model feature leader Troy Rave nursed his car home with a sick engine. Rave held off Korish for his first ever NASCAR Late Model Feature win at Lax Fairgrounds. Matt Henderson, Powell and J. Herbst followed…Quote of the column. “I could smell oil and all of a sudden I was catching him. I just didn’t catch him fast enough!” That from Todd Korish who with 2 laps left in the race was behind Troy Rave’s ailing race car by 10 car lengths but closed to within one at the finish of the June 11th feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway.In Racing History, on July 17th 1960 the Griffith Park Speedway, the first paved track built in the area of Wisconsin Rapids, WI held its first ever stock car race with Jere O’Day taking the 25 lap feature win. Finishing 2nd was Don Ruder with Ken Pancratz placing 3rd. other winners were O’Day in the Semi-Feature, John Moquin in the 1st heat, Augie Winkleman in the 2nd, and Ruder in the 3rd. O’Day also set the fast time for the event. The facility in 1960 was reportedly built for $20,000. Sam Bartus initiated the effort leasing land from John Murgatroyd. Gerald Richter served as Manager of the Speedway…
Photos. The late Rich Somers always had some of the best looking equipment on the race track. This Ford from Rich’s earlier days of racing is an example. (Bob Bergeron photo) Troy Rave drove this Brent Kirchner back up car #81 to his first ever NASCAR Late Model Feature win June 11 at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
June 9 2011
Compared to some race tracks, the Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI., has had a pretty long life. I know we’ve talked about this facility before, but when built it was so unique it’s worth venturing back in time once again, especially since we were able to pay a visit here recently.
Originally built, owned and promoted by Sam Bartus in 1967, the track has weathered more than a few storms and is still an active weekly operation today. The current ownership regime is the Basseuner family and we had the opportunity to visit with them and catch their season opening show on a recent Friday night.
Looking back through the years, most tracks were quite primitive in their construction. Bare necessities and not much more to entertain the paying customer. That was enough then, but certainly today fans are looking for more in the way of creature comforts. The Basseuner's after purchasing the speed plant saw to it that updated and more modern amenities would be in place before any racing action took place. True to their word, the place is definitely spiffed up and still holding exciting racing action every summer now over 40 years later.
Having grown up in that part of the State and putting much sweat equity in the place myself, I’ve always thought the high banked, 1/3 mile paved oval featured nearly the perfect lay-out for a short track. Originally advertised as a 3/10ths mile in length with 12 foot banks in the corners and 7 foot on the straight a ways, I guess it just depends on exactly where it was measured in determining the exact size. All I know after watching hundreds of events there, is it was always one of the most exciting places to view a race.
At one point the track even featured 3 groove passing all the way around, although today’s featured brand discourages that. The 3 wide racing deal back in the day actually came as a result of a time or two, too often, of the front row starting drivers “Making it look good” by racing each other side by side for nearly the entire length of the Feature event. With the checkered flag ready to wave, they’d miraculously find a burst of power and really start racing, showing what they truly had in the car in the process and making a mad dash to the line to see who would win. Of course this tactic left those in the rear, who had qualified the fastest that day frustrated for their inability to move from the back to the front. Being that the speed of the front row guys was probably a half second slower than what the fast guys in the back could do, Marv Marzofka one day said, the heck with this inventing the new third groove and passing the entire field in 5 laps! According to Marv, “You really had to trust the guys in the 2nd groove to stay in their lane, but if they did you could win from out there since you were going so much faster than they were.” Marzofka as stated was the first to accomplish the feat, but soon others caught on as Tom Reffner, Mike Miller and Dick Trickle all won while 3rd grooving. Of course now that these guys realized they could do this the front row side by side dogging ploy was no longer viable and it pretty much ceased.
2011 found Golden Sands Speedway opening on May 20th and we witnessed just shy of 50 racing machines in three divisions, Super Late Model, Pure Stock and Cruiser participating. Third generation driver Colin Reffner proved early he would be the one to watch as he set a blistering fast time pace of 11:948 in Super Late Model qualifying. Reffner has a new chassis this year and is racing for Gary and Elaine Kawleski with father Baird Reffner overseeing the operation. After opening the program in grand fashion a feature win was unfortunately not to be for young Reffner as electrical problems put them out while running 4th in the 75 lap main. Jeremy Lepak had no such trouble and cruised to a relatively easy win over Jeff Weinfurter, Tim Sauter, Ted Reichenberger and Darren Jackson.
There are still some familiar names racing at the track these days as long time competitors Kirby Kurth and Rene Scheinoha race in the tracks top division. Kurth who is back after a several year hiatus admits things have definitely changed. “These kids today have no fear at all racing. They really get out and go!”
Other names from past years of racing here are also prevalent today at the facility although a generation or two later, as drivers with the names Lepak, Marzofka, Sauter, Weinfurter are all competing. A number of folks that used to race here with names like Bohmsoch, Nitzke, Rossier, T. Reffner, can also be found observing or working on cars and it’s always fun to catch up on things with them.
A day at what was the home track for many years is always a good day. Hopefully we can make a return trip in the near future.
Here and there… According to Baird Reffner, once all the bugs are worked out of their new race car, son Colin is going to be a force to reckon with. “We have one bad to the bone race car. Starting now this car will be a bullet!”…La Crosse Fairgrounds, Speedway, West Salem, WI., got another show in the books here Saturday night with Brent Kirchner who has had nothing but problems so far this year getting the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model win. Kirchner avoided the numerous wrecks and spins that took many of the top contenders out of the race and held off Shawn Pfaff at the stripe for his first win of 2011. Nick Clements, Matt Henderson and Harley Jankowski rounded out the top 5…Jankowski in a rare occurrence raced in three divisions Saturday, NASCAR Late Model, Thunderstox and Outlawz. He did well in each even pulling off a win in the Thunderstox Feature…The highly competitive brothers Gilster have been on top of their games at Lax Fairgrounds in the Sportsman Division this year. They lined up side by side at the front of the field on a restart in the feature here Saturday with Dan sneaking ahead of brother Jimmy and eventually taking the 15 lap win. Jimmy who has also won this year settled for 3rd… If you think eating a hotdog and consuming a drink faster than anyone else is easy just ask the majority of racers who tried it at the speedway Saturday. I think some are still sitting at the table trying to finish! Rusty Winchel had little trouble though and he convincingly won the novelty event…Quote of the column comes from Kirby Kurth, “I’m going to have to put a slow moving vehicle sign on the back of my race car so some of these guys don’t run over me.”…In thinking who has promoted racing at Golden Sands we can recollect Bartus, Paul Kaczrowski, Jere O’Day/Dean Spohn, Ralph Jacobson and Terry Preuser as the only ones. There were others that did some one off shows but basically a pretty short list for over a over 40 years of racing operation…Looking back in time on Thursday May 25th 1967, it was Dick Trickle winning the 25 lap Late Model Feature race along with setting fast time of 13:66 seconds and capturing the 4th heat race in the Golden Sands Speedway Grand Opening event. Other winners on the night included Willie Reinwand 1st heat and consolation, Del Kemnetz 2nd heat and Lyle Nabbefeldt 3rd heat and semi-feature winner while racing the famous Chicken Coupe. Adults attending the event paid $1.50 to get in with those under the age of 12 being admitted for $.50…
Photos. I have to thank colleague and friend in racing the late Bob Bergeron for the photos of early Golden Sands Speedway action featuring #20 Ed “Gunner” Walkush, #55 Mike Brown, #67 Larry Rezin, #91 Marv Marzofka, #61 Jim Back, and #2 Dave Marcis. Photo. Jeremy Lepak on his way to the 75 lap season opening Feature win at Golden Sands Speedway.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
May 26 2011
By Dale P. Danielski
Talking about the weather is common in striking up a conversation. But when it’s bad weather, like it’s been here for a number of race events we’ve tried to attend it’s like, “Enough already, I don’t want to hear it anymore!” But of course if it would get to being even close to normal for this time of year we wouldn’t be now would we.
The two ASA Midwest Tour events held thus far have certainly been affected adversely by the weather. The nice sunny skies we’ve witnessed at both shows have unfortunately been accompanied by 30 mile an hour winds! That was the case here at Wisconsin International Raceway Sunday afternoon May 15th for the running of the Dixieland 100 on it’s new, earlier scheduled date. The show did however go on.
Highlight of the day was seeing Tim Schendel finally get a win in the feature event after 11 years of trying! With a fast car and a good starting spot, all Schendel had to do was drive it to the front which he did about half-way through the main. Skylar Holzhausen appeared to have things well in hand but a broken brake line ended his day and opened the door for Schendel’s momentous win. Ross Kenseth had a fast car also but he was no match for Schendel crossing the finish line 2nd after 100 laps 20 car lengths behind. The suddenly invigorated Andrew Morrissey placed 3rd right on Kenseth’s bumper. Nate Haseleu, Nick Panitzke, Jacob Goede, Jeff Van Oudenhoven, Steve Carlson, Travis Sauter and Chris Wimmer rounded out the top 10 finishers.
An 8th place finish for Carlson is not usually noteworthy, but it is in this case as Steve was the 2nd slowest qualifier on the day and forced to use a provisional starting position in the feature for the first time ever in this series! Certainly Carlson will iron out the bugs on his new car and score wins and podium finishes down the road.
Morrissey’s 3rd place finish was on the heels of his setting quick qualifying time on the day of the 34 racing machines on hand. His increased speed and consistency have also found him 2nd in points only three behind that other fast and consistent racer Kenseth heading into the next event June 4th at Grundy County Speedway in Morris, Ill.
Chris Marek and Bobby Wilberg are each batting 1,000 as they picked up their second ASA Tour wins in the Sportsman and Truck Divisions respectively. Both have also been getting the work done in very convincing fashion as well. Is it time to post a bounty to beat them?
Here and there…Interesting to note that besides Carlson Jon Eilen Bryan Reffner and Wimmer all failed to make the race on time. Unlike Carlson, the three did get in via the last chance race however…Frank Kreyer was at the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway on a recent Saturday (The show was rained out of course) shaking down one of the 6 cars he will have at his disposal in 2011. Yes, you read that right, 6 race cars to tackle the 2011 season. Kreyer has teamed up with Wes Coon and a number of different drivers will be competing at various events throughout Wisconsin as well as in some CRA sanctioned events. According to Frank who will contest the entire campaign at Wisconsin International Raceway it was time to incorporate their ideas into the race cars starting from the ground floor. “We just decided rather than constantly changing things we thought would work better on other builders chassis’ we’d do our own. It was a busy winter for sure in the shop getting everything ready!”…As mentioned earlier, La Crosse Fairgrounds was rained out for the second time in four tries. Qualifying was in the books when the monsoon rains and wind hit…Todd Korish although not happy was at least glad the show didn’t go on…he blew his engine in hot laps!...With all the big rigs getting teams from race to race it was interesting to see what Tommy Pecaro used to get to WIR for the ASA race. Can you guess? No you can’t as it was a 1986 Chevrolet ½ ton pick-up truck with a topper for protection and an open trailer. He didn’t make the feature event but he made it to the show like everyone else did, and probably spent a lot less on fuel!...Sad to hear of the passing of Rich Somers. Somers got his career started in the late ‘50s and raced for over 30 years. Rich had health problems for awhile, but remained busy restoring his original Thunder Pony Mustang, his favorite and winningest car. Unfortunately his calling came before he could finish that project. It is hoped that someone will step in and complete the restoration and we’ll be able to enjoy seeing its appearance at numerous venues down the road. Somers was 71…Quote of the column from Steve Carlson after his poor qualifying effort at WIR, “I’ve definitely dug myself a hole haven’t I.”…
Photos. Speaking of haulers they were pretty unique back in the day. How about this one of famed car owner in Wisconsin’s Fox Valley, Crooks Schultz. We know on this day in 1974 Bobby Wawak drove the Camaro at WIR to a win in the 3rd heat race. Tim Schendel on his way to breaking an 11 year victory drought at WIR in the Dixieland 100 held there May 15th.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
May 12th 2011
By Dale P. Danielski
Everyone was looking at each other, shaking their heads and asking, “What is going on here!” They were talking about the opening laps of the season kick off ASA Midwest Tour Joe Shear Classic race at Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI., Sunday, May 1st. It was one of those days for race drivers. Everyone was so anxious to get to the front in the 136 lap main event they were running all over each other to get there. The race was scheduled for 136 laps and no less than 10 cars had substantial damage by the 10th lap! It’s always been said you can’t win the race, or of course the season championship on the first lap of the first event, but then again on more than a few occasions many have tried! Worst case scenario as today was another one of those days.
All the early carnage made little difference to Ross Kenseth as he started up front and pretty much raced there throughout the feature. Content to run behind Michael Bilderback for much of the event, when it was time to go, Kenseth went passing Bilderback for the lead leaving the rest of the field behind…way behind. Bilderback ended a very good day in 2nd and was followed by Andrew Morrissey, Jacob Goede, Nathan Haseleu, Griffin McGrath, Chris Wimmer, Tim Schendel, Bryan Reffner and Nick Murgic.
Chris Marek got his year off to a good start, by winning the companion ASA Sportsman Feature while Bobby Wilberg took the ASA Truck main. Scott Hansen made his return to racing in that event and placed a respectable 3rd in the main. Even though we spotted snow on several ski runs in the Baraboo, WI., area on our way down to MIS, it was time to get winter behind us and go racing which is exactly what happened here in the ASA Midwest Tour opener. Hopefully drivers will be a bit less anxious for race two on the schedule may 15th at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI.
Here and there…Bryan Reffner who started the ASA Tour year by setting fast time at MIS complained of tire issues. “Same old thing trying to keep stagger in the tires. We went out with plenty and came back in with ½ inch.”…Jeff Storm had a rather embarrassing moment while leading in the odd dash at MIS. “I thought the spotter said one to go so I slowed down. Before I realized there were two laps left and got back on the gas it was too late…finished 2nd.”…Some folks were blaming the new to the series double file restarts on all the early feature wrecks at MIS. I think it was more of a case of driving too hard to get to the front on cool tires which were taking longer to get heat in them due to the cold temperatures…With Steve Holzhausen still laid up with a foot injury, car owner Pete Kempf is thinking about racing the car in the ASA Tour event at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI., May 15th. “I’ve got about 8 hours left to finish it, so since Steve can’t I think I’ll drive it at Kaukauna.” The car Kempf is finishing up is one previously owned by Mark Eswein which Pete purchased last year after his other car was wrecked when Holzhausen had the throttle stick hitting the wall and totally demolishing the machine at Dells Raceway Park…Great weather greeted fans for night two of competition at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway here Saturday night with J. Herbst taking the NASCAR Late Model Feature. He had all he could handle but did manage to hold off the night’s fast qualifier Todd Korish for the win…With a couple 2nd place finished Korish finds himself leading the division’s point standings and has definitely established himself as a season long contender…2010 NASCAR Late Model Champion at La Crosse Fairgrounds Shawn Pfaff did more snowmobiling this winter to stay in racing shape. “A lot of guys don’t do anything in the off season. I snowmobiled more this year and I think it helped as far as hand eye coordination.” Apparently it has as Pfaff has avoided all the early season skirmishes and finds himself in the hunt for the championship…Cole Scholze is a rookie driver in the NASCAR Late Model division and notes things are quite different racing that type of car. “It’s a lot different than driving a Thunderstock or Sportsman car. These cars are a lot faster and they stick and go where you point them!”…In asking Tony Bagstad what was left of his Late Model car after severely damaging it a couple weeks back at La Crosse his reply was, “The seat. Actually I could fix it, I can fix anything. Could maybe even have done it in a week, but it would really have been a long week.” In discussing the wreck, Bagstad indicated he was reaching for reverse gear in the car after the initial contact as there was minimal damage. However, that thought changed when Mike Carlson came shooting into the middle of the pile up inflicting the majority of the damage to both cars…Quote of the column comes from the president of the ASA Midwest Tour Tim Olson. “I got on the radio to the spotters and said will you please tell your driver there are 127 laps still left in the race!” Of course Tim was pleading his case at the MIS opener where so many struggled to keep their cars going in a counterclockwise direction.
Photos. Ross Kenseth at speed on his way to the win in the ASA Midwest Tour event at MIS. A young driver on his way up as father to Ross, Matt takes a win in a sportsman division race at Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI in 1989.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
April 28 2011
With winter grudgingly departing it was great to see a track beat the weather here Saturday night as La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., opened its 2011 season with a full slate of racing.
Tough times and economy be damned as an excellent four division field pushing 80 was on hand to do battle in front of an anxious to see some racing crowd of nearly 2,000. When all was said and done it was a familiar face in victory lane after the top billed event of the night, the NASCAR Late Model Feature, as Steve Carlson got off to a quick start taking the main.
Although a perennial winner graced victory circle the night was not without plenty of action, excitement and drama. After an early caution period took out contenders Mike Carlson, Tony Bagstad and Adam Degenhardt, Carlson as usual, took the opportunity to move up from 12th in the field via the outside on the double file restart to near the front of the pack. Shortly thereafter he was in front never to be headed. Todd Korish fought gamely but was never able to pose a real threat and wound up 2nd at the finish. He was followed by NASCAR Late Model Rookie Nick Clements, Matt Henderson and defending LM champion Shawn Pfaff, or maybe not. In post race tech inspection Clements was found in violation of the ride height rule and disqualified which moved everyone up a spot. That put J. Herbst in 5th with Skylar Holzhausen, Bill Niles, Harley Jankowski, Cole Scholze and Jerimy Wagner following. The Herbst finish was noteworthy in that he had to come from the back of the pack twice having been involved in on track incidents. Holzhausen was forced to do the same on one occasion but still moved through the field to finish 6th. Brent Kirchner who is expected to contend for the title this year wasn’t so lucky as he was involved in an early caution which meant he had to restart the race at the rear. He decided he didn’t want to start in that position and wouldn’t go there at which point he was black flagged. Not heeding that warning he was consequently disqualified! Did we say action and drama here tonight!
It appeared after watching the NASCAR Late Model Feature and all its carnage the Sportsmen Division drivers decided to take a bit more cautious approach for their 15 lap main. Brothers Gilster were the show, battling each other much of the way before Jimmy was able to eke out a close win over Dan in a relatively incident free race.
Another familiar face was in victory lane in the Thunderstox division as Adam Moore captured the 15 lap headline event. The new Outlawz division made its debut with John Olson taking the top attraction.
All the aforementioned with a bunch of fun added, best describes the opening night of racing at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Now if Mother Nature will only cooperate and let us move into Spring-like weather we know there is more of the same to come.
Race night notes…Michael Sauter son of Jay made his debut racing a NASCAR Late Model here tonight. At just 15 years of age, Sauter already has a fair amount of experience racing. According to Dad they began his racing in Karting. “We raced locally for a couple years before competing with the IKF. Having done very well with that it was decided to get into car racing. We thought about starting out in one of the lower divisions of racing but it seems you can develop a lot of bad habits doing that so we decided to get right into the NASCAR Late Model Division. We first thought of racing two cars out here in the division with me driving the other car but it just seemed like it would be too much work. Plus I wanted to help my son get started and heading in the right direction.” With Chad Wehrs providing the equipment, the team did just that with Michael, after an earlier spin, battling back to place 12th in the Feature event. With the Sauter bloodline you have to believe the kid has got a future in racing…One rabbit was very lucky Saturday and probably did make it to Easter Sunday. Seen running next to the wall between turns three and four during hot laps track workers helped the animal to freedom...for now anyway…The gopher however was not so lucky this week as the J. Herbst machine made short work of him…The cars of Mike Carlson and Tony Bagstad suffered by far the most damage after the evenings racing with both needing to be hauled away via Flatbed trucks…Quote of the column this time around comes from Skylar Holzhausen who will be racing on a near regular basis in a team car to J. Herbst at the track in 2011. “J. has a good feel for his race car. Our styles are real close which helps us in setting up the cars. I think we’ve got something here.” Both cars and drivers were extremely fast but being in the right place at the wrong time hurt both their performances…Here and there…Things should start heating up in area racing as a number of dirt tracks including weather plagued Mississippi Thunder Speedway of Fountain City, WI., and Deer Creek Speedway, of Racing, MN., are set to get rolling by the time you read this. The ASA Midwest Tour will also get their season started at Madison International Speedway of Oregon, WI., April 30 and May 1st…
Pic from the past. Jay Sauter who has had a pretty fair racing career of his own in his car, vintage 1983. Photo. 15 year old Michael Sauter, son of Jay, made his debut in the NASCAR Late Model Division at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
April 2011
A number of Series and track schedules for 2011 are out so hopefully a mild spring will allow for racing here in the Upper Midwest in short order.
Several tracks in our vicinity are looking at April openers with the Deer Creek Speedway just south of Rochester, MN shooting for the 2nd with a 6th-10th special scheduled for the following week of the month. That’s pretty ambitious considering our finicky weather here but they’ve done it for many years and are usually quite successful. Maybe instead of successful the word used should be lucky as you never know what you will get weather-wise this time of the year. It seems it’s either a home run or a total wash or snow-out with these early season events. Deer Creek has taken it a step further than most by scheduling a high dollar special event this time of year which is normally something reserved for later in the season when weather is more predictable. Again it’s a feast or famine type scenario as you can get a ton of cars and people who are anxious to get things going early on, or you can spend a bunch of money on advertising and facility preparation only to need additional funding to advertise a rain date down the road! The Queensland family of promoters is very equipped to handle just about everything thrown at them and you don’t get voted as promoter of the year as the family did by Racing Promotion Monthly for 2010 without taking a few risks along the way. We’ll see if it pays off for them to start off 2011.
In the immediate area La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, West Salem, WI., will kick things off with media and practice day April 16th. A program of NASCAR Late Models, Sportsmen and Thunderstox race cars will officially get the season underway the following Saturday, April 23. Much discussion is currently taking place of a night those divisions won’t be racing at the track as June 18th will see a SMASH-O-RAMA event instead of the normal three Divisions of racing. It will be interesting to see how the week off plays into those chasing championships during the year.
And with so many race tracks facing noise, dust, congestion and potential closure issues it’s nice to be able to report of a track re-opening. The Excalibur Speedway of Tomah, WI., will again be holding racing events on Friday nights in 2011. Dave Thompson, owner of the facility has brought on Greg Oliver to operate the track this season. If that name sounds familiar it should as Oliver is the flagman at La Crosse Fairgrounds and also for the Big 8 Series of racing. Opening day for the 3/8 mile paved oval will be Sunday, May 15 where a 200 lap 4 cylinder Enduro will take place. The following Friday, May 20th regular weekly racing gets started with Sportsman, Thunderstocks and Bumble Bee Divisions competing. Oliver hopes driver participation is in the form of established divisions of racing in the area and expects to draw competitors from the La Crosse, Wisconsin Dells and Marshfield areas. According to Oliver, “If we can get 45 cars in all divisions each week and 300 people in the stands to start out I’d be ecstatic!” We wish the best for the track which hasn’t operated in 10 years and hope to attend a number of events there.
Mississippi Thunder Speedway will have at it for another season of racing as the 3/8 mile clay oval near Fountain City, WI., will open Friday night, April 22nd. Bob Timm and his crew always have something special going on with a number of big events again on tap for 2011.
The ASA Midwest Tour schedule features a number of traditional and very prestigious events for 2011. The Joe Shear Classic gets things started at Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI., April 30th-May 1st, 2011. The Rockford Speedway is opting to go with ASA Tour sanction this year for its 46th Annual National Short Track Championship event October 2nd. Other notables include the Annual Dixieland race moved up to May 14-15 at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI., from its normal August date. The Wayne Carter Classic takes place at Grundy County Speedway, Morris, IL., June 3rd, while the Iowa Speedway of Newton, Iowa is back on the schedule for 2011 with a 150 lap event on the 7/8 mile super speedway August 5th. Rounding out the impressive schedule are dates at Illiana Speedway, Schereville, IN., June 18th, State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., June 23rd, Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., July 2nd, Hawkeye Downs Speedway, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, August 12th, Raceway Park, Shakopee, MN., August 21st, Norway Speedway, Norway, MI., September 4th, and the huge season ender at La Crosse Fairgrounds for the 42nd Annual Oktoberfest October 8-9. And we would be remiss if we didn’t mention a new format for the ASA Midwest Tour event at Elko Speedway, Elko, MN. The Summer Clash 250 will take place July 8-9 at the 3/8 mile oval and the main event will feature 250 laps of feature attraction racing. And best of all, Elko which has hosted Tour events from the beginning, plans to pay the happy winner a cool $10,000! Always one to do things big, the Elko event this year certainly fits in that category.
Here and there…Steve Holzhausen who was badly injured at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., in a racing accident last year and had surgery on his leg and ankle, has been informed the healing of the bones has not taken place properly and consequently he will need further surgery. As we speak the surgery should have taken place and if all goes according to plan he will be ready to go racing in 2011, albeit later than planned in the Spring…Quote of the column comes from Skylar Holzhausen, son of Steve. “I want to run the entire ASA Midwest Tour this year even if I have to spend all my own money. I need to show something this year!” Young Holzhausen will also have that opportunity at La Crosse Fairgrounds during the season as he will race Saturday nights when free in a second Terry and Michelle Herbst NASCAR Late Model…Now that National Speed Sport News has ceased publishing a paper all the more reason to read MRC! Tell me readers, what coverage or feature stories you would like to see and we’ll get it done through the Midwest Racing Connection…
Photos from the past. Dick Trickle with his new Mustang at the Golden Sands Speedway, Plover, WI., April 1974 opener. Bob Gunn in an Ex-Trickle Mustang in 1974.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
March 2011 By Dale P. Danielski
With Florida Speedweeks in the books it can’t be long before Spring arrives and we get into Upper Midwestern racing can it? In looking out my window it can as more snow piling up means the Ground Hog is back to sleep and it will be awhile before we hear the roar of racing engines in these parts. So, to keep everyone nice and cozy we’ll produce some more warm racing memories, or new experiences if you weren’t there, with events and goings on from the year 1974.
A big announcement by track promoter Phil Stewart heading into the racing season was the Elko Speedway (Now Minnesota Speedway) continuing with the NASCAR sanction but going with a dressed down “Sportsmen” type race car as its main attraction. Cutting costs was the reasoning behind the decision and many longtime Twin Cities drivers were not happy feeling their Late Model race cars were literally obsoleted over night. A minimum car weight rule of 3,300 Lbs at 9.4 pounds/cubic inch of the engine displacement were the most drastic changes in the rules. In addition a street type tire was to be utilized instead of the more expensive racing skins of the past along with the mandatory use of mufflers. It proved to be too much for many of the area star drivers to take and they began traveling to Wisconsin to race where less restriction applied. And being selfish in Wisconsin, we welcomed the Minnesota contingent as field’s swelled to huge numbers everywhere we followed paved racing. Some that crossed the border to do battle included Larry Behrens, Don James, Mike Miller, Bob Jusola, Jim Derhaag, Bob Arbuckle, Bruce Sparrman, Bill Oas and Jon Chrest.
Interesting to note that while embroiled in argument with Stewart the Minnesota Stock Car Racing Association which had for members most of the top pavement drivers racing in the area, was looking to purchase the track in Shakopee, MN which they had also been regular competitors at for many years. If that, with advice from consultants wasn’t feasible, the group was looking at having a track near Centuria, WI., paved and possibly racing there. None of it however came to fruition and most was forgotten when in a shocking to the racing community development, Stewart at just 37 years of age, suddenly died of a cerebral hemorrhage just a week later. Only one event in 8 tries had been contested under the new rules and now many were wondering if there would be a racing season at all. Mercifully it was arranged to continue racing in Elko and the season once again commenced with a late May event. The driver line up there was looking quite different now that most of the veterans were running elsewhere and names like Dewey Gustafson, Mike Demars, Ted Kitzman, Mark Lamoreaux and rookie to the top billed division, Jim Weber were showing up in victory lane. It was however, one of the regular star drivers that stayed home, John Boegeman having one of the best seasons winning numerous main events.
In 1974 it wasn’t just Minnesota paved racing shaping up differently as the Rockford Illinois Speedway was also implementing new cost savings “Rockford Rules” for their Late Model division which meant many of the drivers that had been racing there wouldn’t be, and consequently heading over to Wisconsin on a regular basis. What a treat to have Joe Shear, Dave Watson, Don Leach, Boyce Sparkman, John Knaus, (Yes, that’s the father of NASCAR crew chief Chad Knaus) Danny Bellard and numerous others crossing that border to race in the Badger State! According to flamboyant promoter Hugh Deery, “It makes sense for drivers to be racing a $3,000 car for a $3,000 purse rather than in a $15,000 car. We are putting racing back in the driver’s hands as they will be able to compete here in a car for 25% of what they used to need to be competitive.”
Actually Wisconsin didn’t totally stay put in their rules package from previous years as cars were required to race at the 8 Lbs/cubic inch standard which ended up eliminating the huge bore Big Block engines that had been regular winners in the past. Now racing with those engines would require a car to be too heavy to compete with the 350 CI or so small blocks. Wisconsin also went with a muffler rule which drew a fair amount of opposition but as it turns out was a blessing since we could now hear each other talk when cars were on the racetrack. That especially applied when Larry Detjens went by in his Hemi-Mopar which was by far the loudest of them all!
Sadly the season barely got started when it was reported that long time racing supporter Alan “Moose” Peterson had perished in a motorcycle accident. Peterson from Black River Falls, WI., had kept many a racer going both on asphalt and dirt including Ev Fox, Lyle Nabbefeldt, Dick Trickle, Wayne Kittelson, Jere O’Day, Harold Mueller, Gary Kneisley, Tom Nesbitt and Marv Marzofka. Peterson, who also did some dirt racing himself was just 38 at the time of his passing.
Looking at the circuit for many of the Wisconsin group in 1974, you had Wednesday racing at Columbus 151 Speedway of Columbus, WI., Thursday at State Park Speedway, Wausau, WI., Friday at Capital Super Speedway, Oregon, WI., and La Crosse Interstate Speedway, West Salem, WI., Saturday at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI., and Sunday night racing at Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI. Of course Tuesday and Sunday afternoon also found much in the way of Special event racing.
In the meantime, the latest promotional group, Tri-R promotions of Oak Forest, IL., had come up with a very ambitious schedule of open competition racing for top Late Model drivers announcing a 10 race series of events featuring $125,000 in purse pay-out money. The group had scheduled four events in 1973 but upped the ante for competitors considerably with its 1974 version.
With all the money on the line Tri-R events regularly attracted the Wisconsin and Illinois gang of racers but also such Michigan stars as Bob Senneker and Butch Miller which was special for us following the sport as we rarely had an opportunity to see those guys in action. They ended up taking their share of the loot home with them too when all was said and done.
Early season action found Larry Detjens in his still really loud but cool nonetheless 1974 Dodge Challenger taking the win at Wisconsin International Raceway, Kaukauna, WI., in the Spring Opener 50, besting a record field of 63 entries. Dick Trickle meanwhile captured the overall win in the Tri-R Prairie State 150 event at Capital Super Speedway in his 1970 Mustang taking one of the three 50 lap feature events.
With all the uproar going on about drastic rule changes folks should have been looking back in time where they would have seen that this type of action is not all that unusual. If you take a look through the years racing has always gone through phases to make the sport less costly. Taking a step or two backward periodically to move forward has been commonplace. The controversial Rockford Rules move by the Deery’s may have cost a bit in the short term as virtual no names Jerry Lewis, Marv Palmer, John Luther, Gene Sisk and Rich Blakely made the headlines, but by sticking to their guns the track persevered and eventually ended up with very good car counts and successful weekly race programs. Minnesota National Speedway finished out their year with set rules intact and also saw car counts increase and a number of the previous stars come back to race there.
Along those lines, we’ve seen some tracks refuse to let technology and racing revolution dictate what classes of cars and rules they’ll mandate. Many stayed with the same rules for many, many years. One such track in 1974 was the Door County Speedway of Sturgeon Bay, WI. The coupe division was still competing with Ray LeMieux, 1932 Plymouth, Dale Peterson, Straight 8 Buick Coupe along with Irv Ettien and Terry Cochart in 1930 something coupes! Now that’s maintaining the status quo!
Also of note during this time period, for certain in Wisconsin anyway, was the simplicity of identifying race cars and divisions of racing. You had the top billed Late Models, our favorite, and the start up, entry level Hobby stocks which we had a number of friends competing in and were also fond of. Unknown to most, Vic Getzloff who went on to become Dick Trickle’s race car hauler driver, sometimes pit man and full time body guard, drove in this division in the 1970s. In one particular program at Golden Sands Speedway as described by jack of all trades and publicist Kenley Snyder, Getzloff was in a hurry to get to the front in the feature race. In Snyder’s words, “A bizarre incident occurred in the hobby stock feature as Vic Getzloff knocked out six cars in the 3rd turn of the first lap. Getzloff assumed that the cars in front of him would take the high groove and attempted to pass on the inside. Unfortunately, all the cars stayed glued to the inside and Getzloff plowed into the pack.” As you may have guessed, Getzloff was one heck of a body guard through the years for Trickle!
The multiple feature event race program format was becoming more popular at this time and Tri-R Promotions held their second event of 1974 at the Baer Field Speedway in Ft. Wayne, IN., utilizing it. Called the Memorial Day 200, the event featured two 100 lap mains. Ohio hot shoe Tony Diano won one with area star Joe Wallace capturing the 2nd. Talent for this show was at a premium as the aforementioned along with Larry Moore, Dave Watson, Moose Myers, Bob Senneker, Larry Detjens, Butch Miller, Bobby Wawak, Jim Bickerstaff, and Dick Trickle were a partial list of those competing! The following week La Crosse Interstate Speedway held a Tri-R event with three 50 lap features. Senneker, Trickle and Shear were the 50 lap victors with Shear getting the overall win. The next Tri-R event held at Capital Super Speedway included four 50 lap mains! Trickle, Shear, Terry Bivins and Conrad Morgan took home wins in those. Trickle banked over $1,000 for his days work which was tops for the event.
The next Tri-R event on the schedule was to take place at a track undergoing a huge change. The Slinger Speedway which had hosted the highly popular Modifieds on its dirt surface for over 20 years was going to be paved and as a special attraction run Late Models. Now a ¼ mile high banked asphalt track the Tri-R promoted event was the first Mega-Special to be held there. What a special it was, with drivers representing 5 States appearing in hopes of capturing the 198 lap feature. The race was actually run in two 99 lap segments with Joe Shear winning the first and placing 4th in the 2nd for the overall win. Dick Trickle won the 2nd 99 and Bob Senneker set the tone early for the event by setting fast time at 12:564 seconds, a record. Even more impressive was the fact Senneker hadn’t even taken a hot lap before qualifying! The Late Model event proved very popular and although Modifieds were the top billed class there through July, the writing was on the wall and the LM’s became the star attraction the rest of the season.
One of the more significant events during the year was the Lyle Nabbefeldt Memorial race held at Dells Motor Speedway. Dick Trickle won the 100 lap feature race in honor of fallen star in a1973 racing incident, Nabbefeldt. As deemed by the family, the first driver that could win the event three years in a row would be able to keep the traveling trophy. Although extremely coveted, no one was ever able to accomplish that fete, two in a row being the closest several drivers ever got.
Three is better than one was the theme as Tri-R promotions appeared at Capital Super Speedway for the Badger 150. Three separate drivers appeared in victory lane in the 50 lap events Butch Miller, Joe Shear and Johnny Reimer, with Miller getting the overall win. Tri-R ventured into Ovid, Michigan for the Great Lakes 100 and of course Michigan drivers being on their home turf did best with Bob Senneker taking the rain shortened 100 lap main.
Tri-R had put on some pretty impressive shows with great fields of cars up to this point but the announced North American Short Track Championship, September 4-8 really got the attention of drivers and fans alike. It consisted of 5 days of racing at 4 race tracks in Wisconsin. The near week long tour was set to start at Columbus 151 Speedway, move to State Park Speedway, than Capital Super Speedway before wrapping up at Wisconsin International Raceway the last two days. The purse for the event was advertised at $40,000. Although the event didn’t draw all the heavy hitters that were entered, it did attract an excellent field. Joe Shear who was finishing off a fantastic season of racing captured the 50 lap finale of the first night at Columbus. Following Shear were Tom Maier, new track record holder Tony Diano, Bob Senneker, John Ziegler, Terry Bivins, Tom Jones, Dave Watson, Tom Musgrave and Mike Miller. Stop two found Dick Trickle getting back on track taking the overall win at State Park Speedway. Individual 50 lap wins went to Trickle, Tom Reffner and Trickle again in the finale. Three different drivers graced victory lane for the Capital Super Speedway stop with Tony Diano, Tom Reffner and Joe Shear taking 50 lap wins. Shear was the most consistent and claimed overall win honors. The Tour finale was set to take place on the weekend of September 7-8 but rain threw a wrench into the plan and it was pushed ahead to September 15th. The wait proved worthwhile for Tom Reffner as he placed 2nd in the first 104 lap feature and won the 2nd to take overall honors in the finale at Wisconsin International Raceway and the North American Short Track Championship. John Reimer won the first 104 lap feature.
The multiple feature format wasn’t just a flash in the pan either, as it would be utilized for years to come by many groups. Little did we know at the time but John
Mc Karns and Art Frigo would form the ARTGO Series the next year and use that format in more of their events than not.
In other 1974 happenings…
The year produced the famous Ralph Starr promoted race at the Rolla, MO., Speedway that no one got paid for! An advertised $29,000 purse produced an unbelievable field at the ultra-fast ½ mile oval, including Tom Maier, (Who won the 300 lap race) Mike Miller, Dick Trickle, Cale Yarborough, Joe Wallace, Terry Bivens, Ed Howe, Pete Hamilton and over 60 others. The event was held with over 4,000 fans at $10 a head attending, but when all the drivers went to get paid, Ralph Starr was nowhere to be found having run off with the purse money! Years previous, cutting purses or not paying drivers at all did happen more than it should have at speedways everywhere, but now in what was considered modern era racing it was unheard of. Rumor had some of the pay eventually finding its way to drivers but never the amount that was advertised…
Port Edwards, WI., driver Dave Field went on a tear racing in Wisconsin in June of 1974. Field who hadn’t raced in sometime had his 1968 Mustang convertible running flawlessly taking 7 feature wins in a 4 week period. Field brought the same car out in 1975 with a new body on it but it just wasn’t the same. He never did win another feature and disappeared from the racing scene shortly thereafter…Neil Callahan who had raced mainly at the Tomahawk Speedway emerged as a major threat during the season racing to double digit feature wins. Callahan continued to race and win at Tomahawk but he also found himself in victory lane at State Park Speedway and Golden Sands Speedway…Joe Shear won the prestigious National Short Track Championship at Rockford, which saw a newcomer introduced to Late Model Racing. None other than Rusty Wallace competed on the day hitting just about everything in sight! Fans felt so sorry for Wallace and the bad luck he was having they voted his mangled car best appearing!...When Joe Shear wasn’t racing his own equipment he’d hop into other cars at Jefferson, WI., Speedway. He wound up winning features there in Al Dahlmeyer and John Knaus’s cars…We didn’t get to a whole lot of dirt track events during the year, but it was hard not to notice the year Leon Plank had winning 26 main events mostly in Northwestern Wisconsin. Plank did however on occasion venture across the State and ended up grabbing a bunch of money from tracks and racers on that side of the State…
All in all 1974 was a pretty fair year in racing. Although an energy crunch with fuel not being available, or priced extremely high, was forecast (It never really did materialize though the Daytona 500 was shortened to 450 miles just to make it look good.) promoters kept pricing in line again allowing fans to get to almost as many races as they wanted. Rules changes made the news, but all in all it was pretty much great, exciting racing as usual in our World. Here and there…Excalibur Speedway near Tomah, WI., is set to reopen this year after 10 years of inactivity. Many of the old pros of racing competed here back in the ‘60s when it was known as Tomah Sparta Speedway. It was also called Bill’s Track and Trail Speedway at one time before becoming Excalibur. Friday night racing throughout the summer will occur with a couple ASA Midwest Tour sanctioned events Trucks and and Sportsmen the special events for the season… Speaking of the ASA Tour a very ambitious 2011 season of racing is on tap with some very tradition rich event dates scheduled…This editions Quote of the Column, “Racing into the future by appreciating the past”. By Dale P. Danielski and the theme for Yesteryears Racing Reunions held for 5 years at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Popular here as well with all the positive feedback we receive form these history columns!
Photos. #26 Dave Field 7 Feature wins in 1974 in 1968 Mustang Convertible. #40 Jim Derhaag, one of the Minnesota travelers in 1974. #44 Multi-Feature winner Neil Callahan in his 1972 Bemco Nova. #53 Terry Bivins frequent Wisconsin visitor in 1974 from Shawnee Mission, KS. #84 Bob Senneker a Tri-R promotions race regular in 1974. #99 Larry Behrens in 1974. #A3 John Reimer the Caledonia Clipper in 1974. #36 Tony Diano another regular Tri-R Promotions competitor.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
February 2011
By Dale P. Danielski
The snow is piled high and although a lot is going on in the background by race organizers and competitors alike in preparation for the 2011 racing season, by popular demand, we’ll take another step back in time and highlight some of what was going on in racing, this time for the year 1973.
Most folks know of the late John McKarns as a race promoter. But in 1973 Mr. McKarns was on the media side of things informing us race followers of goings on through his Chicagoland STARS column in the Midwest Racing News.
The Midwest paper was pretty much the coverage of racing bible in its day and we all looked forward every week to receiving our copy, generally on Thursday. To continue receiving the paper on a regular basis a $4.00/year subscription was necessary. $7.00 would get you two years worth of coverage if you can believe that! Looking at some of the race event admission fees at the time, Hales Corners Speedway outside of Milwaukee, WI., (Menards is located where the track used to be) was charging $2.50 for adults with children admitted for $.50. The Brown County Fairgrounds Speedway, a popular venue for the dirt set in Depere, WI., (Fairgrounds is still there but only a small patch of the old speedway remains) charged an adult price of $2.00 with children in for $1.00. Truly amazing what racing entertainment cost then to say the least.
With the Pony Car revolution having taken hold the previous year nearly all drivers were on the small car band wagon in 1973. Some that were ready to do battle on the pavement included Dick Trickle, 1970 Ford Mustang, Marv Marzofka, 1973 Chevy Camaro, Tom Reffner 1970 Mustang, Jim Back, 1973 Camaro, Joe Shear, 1973 Camaro, John Rank, 1972 Chevy Nova, Bobby Wawak, 1973 Dodge Challenger, Jim Sauter, 1973 Camaro, John Ziegler, 1973 Mustang, Larry Detjens, 1972 Challenger, and Whitey Harris, 1973 Camaro to name some. And according to McKarns in an early season column, drivers were wasting no time getting their cars dialed in as Ray Para, Shear, Ray Young, Lee Schuler and Ed Hoffman all took main event wins away from their home tracks. Of course our upper Midwest contingent got the season rolling in quick fashion as well as Trickle took a 150 lap win at the Springfield, MO., Fairgrounds Speedway which was worth $1,000 and amazingly held in front of a near capacity crowd of 5,000 fans! The “Tricky” one also found victory lane in major events at Rolla, and Odessa, MO., tracks. Shear meanwhile followed up a big win in Springfield, MO., with wins at Golden Sands Speedway of Plover, WI., and at Capital Speedway of Oregon, WI. Not to be outdone, Marv Marzofka and Jim Back were off and running with victories at Dells Motor Speedway, Wis. Dells, WI., and at Golden Sands. Back’s winning day was noteworthy in that he scored a clean sweep of all the events he participated in. The feat included setting fast qualifying time, winning the fast dash, his heat race and the 30 lap Feature event! A clean sweep today in many instances is winning as little as two events. Not so back in 1973. The wins for these drivers kept adding up too as they had won more times in the first several weeks of the season than many do in a year or better.
Also significant was the racing career taking shape of New Prague, MN., driver Mike Miller. Miller scored his first career Late Model Feature victory in early May at the Minnesota National Speedway of Elko, MN. In an attempt to speed up that career even further, Miller decided to move south and become a member of the Wisconsin gang. Basing his operation out of Wisconsin Rapids, WI., Miller in short order began competing 5 or more times a week which drastically sped up his learning curve on the pavement. All the extra laps on tracks of different sizes and shapes paid off as Miller went on to win 125 main events in a career that lasted over 20 years.
With the success of the Red, White and Blue Series at Wisconsin International Raceway in Kaukauna, WI., the track decided to schedule a couple additional special events in 1973. One was the Spring Sizzler held in May that year. A gigantic crowd of 6,351 no doubt still getting over cabin fever turned out for the event that saw Joe Shear winning the 50 lap feature. Yes, it was Shear winning and not Trickle who so often took inaugural events wherever they were held. Trickle did wind up 2nd by barely a car length with Dave Watson, Tom Reffner, Whitey Harris, John Rank, Marv Marzofka, Larry Detjens, Dan Bellard and Jim Pierson following. Shear also broke the track record in qualifying with a lap of 21:42 around the big ½ mile Tri-Oval breaking the old mark of 21:60 set by Al Moldenhauer the previous year. Another fact unknown to many is that the late Gary Vercauteran was instrumental in getting the events at WIR scheduled. The idea for the series was a good one and it continues today. The Spring Sizzler title for the opener didn’t last long however, as the Stafford, CT., Speedway had a patent on that name forcing WIR officials to later retitle it the Spring Opener 50.
Unfortunately in 1973 one of the biggest racing tragedies up to that point for the area was the death of veteran driver Lyle Nabbefeldt. Nabbefeldt had the throttle stick on his Camaro while qualifying at The Dells Speedway hitting the wall nearly straight on. The impact reportedly knocked his seat loose causing the Nekoosa, WI., driver to make contact with something in the car which killed him instantly. It was also rumored that Nabbefeldt may have had a heart attack but nothing was ever substantiated. What was fact was that one of the areas winningest and most popular drivers was now gone. His death was very difficult for the area drivers as most at some time or another had counted on Lyle for advice, assistance and even money to keep them going which he willingly offered. A big void was left but the season continued on.
Racing actually at this time was becoming much more popular. According to John McKarns in a column he wrote, racing recorded an estimated 76 million in attendance which out drew all other types of sports at the time. Horse racing was at 74 million (With pari-mutuel betting the biggest reason of course) while football was at 43 million which outdrew baseball, basketball and hockey in that order. Always staying on top of things, John’s writings definitely made people take note that racing was for real and not just a bunch of red necks driving in circles!
One of the most publicized events for 1973 was the MARC TIMES Invitational to be held at Sam’s Capital Speedway. Twin 75 feature events were advertised with $1,000 going to the winner of each. The show was also considered a Tri-R Promotion which was the precursor Series to John McKarn’s ARTGO. Drivers from six States appeared for the event but that only represented 25 cars as the sanctioning group American Racing Congress was very strict on their rules enforcement and many drivers were not willing to add hundreds of pounds of weight to be legal. Tom Reffner decided to give it a try but was required to add over 200 pounds of weight. His Mustang apparently felt good at that weight as he easily won both feature events and set fast qualifying time. You look at the 25 cars that did race and it’s a pretty impressive field. Names like Dick Trickle, Bob Senneker, Paul Weisner, Fred Bender, Terry Bivens, Jim Back, Bob Jusola, Boyce Sparkman and even M.J. McBride who took a shot at pavement racing. No slouches here they were just a little short on quantity for this particular event. Speaking of Fred Bender the Sun Prairie driver was having one of his best seasons winning at the Dells Motor Speedway, Capital, Jefferson, WI. and Columbus 151 Speedway, Columbus, WI.. Freddy was one of the most likeable guys on the circuit as well.
It was extremely difficult for an outsider to win where the Wisconsin gang was racing. Kansas visitor Terry Bivins however pulled off the feat in a special event at the Dells Motor Speedway. Rain did help Bivin’s cause shortening the event to 80 laps from a scheduled 100 and it didn’t hurt that Trickle who was leading blew his engine handing over the lead and win to Bivins. Definitely something to be said for being in the right place at the right time! Bob Jusola one of the Minnesota travelers was racing more and more in Wisconsin and the trips paid off mid-summer as the Burnsville racer took a feature win at the same Dells track in his 1972 Chevy Nova. Like Miller Jusola eventually moved to Wisconsin. Joe Ruttman scored the biggest win for outsiders coming to the Wisconsin playground as he steered Joy Fair’s radical short wheel base Ford Maverick to the 200 lap win in the Midwest Championship at Dells Motor Speedway.
Interesting how another racer during this time was beginning to make a name for himself. Terry Baldry in his second year of racing captured a couple semi-feature wins racing in the Fox Valley. Of course we know how well he eventually did winning multiple track and series championships. Baldry is still racing and winning in the Valley today.
Again taking a peak at admission prices we see WIR charging adults $2.00 admission for their first event of the Red, White and Blue Series. Kids under 12 were free. Raceway Park of Beaver Dam, WI., (Which no longer exists) charged adults $2.50 to get in with students priced at $1.50 and kids under 12 free. The track in Plymouth, WI., was charging $2.00/adult admission with accompanied students age 12-15, $1.00. The Illiana Speedway just outside of the high roller and high income City of Chicago, IL., charged $2.50 for adult admission with teens thru the age of 17 getting in for $2.00. Children at Illiana age 6-12 had to suffer thru paying $.50 to get in.
Contrary to popular belief we did during the years get to many different dirt tracks and special events. It was awhile before we made the decision to get a taste of the dirt slingers way of racing but once we did we were nearly as hooked on that form of racing as the pavement style.
Most of the dirt racing we witnessed early on was the guys competing in North Eastern Wisconsin. Actually what got us to an event was the rumor that Dick Trickle, Tom Reffner and Tom Jones were going to be racing at the Seymour Speedway of Seymour, WI., after competing at Kaukauna that afternoon. Perhaps after a couple beers to build up their courage we did get to see Trickle and Jones at the track while maybe Reffner had one extra brew and thought better to head home instead. Not certain how Trickle did on this day but as time went by he became quite good on dirt surfaces winning a number of feature races. It didn’t always matter how well he ran either as promoters were paying the crowd attracting Trickle big bucks just to show up! I do remember how Tom Jones fared as the Camaro driver drove to two wins on the night beating a number of dirt regulars in the process. Even more impressive was the fact he did it with the same tires on his car that he had raced on the pavement earlier in the day! You definitely won’t ever see that happen again as nobody crosses over surface to surface with the same car anymore.
Of course the dirt guys had their stars too and they could definitely get it done in exciting fashion as we found out. In 1973 many of this contingent had also picked up on the Pony Car explosion. Top drivers in those cars included Roger Paul, 1973 Chevy Nova, J.J Smith, 1970 Ford Mustang, Jerry Smith, 1973 Camaro, Jim Jahnke, 1969 Chevy Camaro, Dave Conger, 1969 Camaro, and a very young Pete Parker, 1967 Nova. The big cars hadn’t become totally obsolete yet however and hotshots Roger “The Bear” Regeth, 1972 Chevelle, M.J McBride, 1972 Ford Torino, Russ Peterson, 1971 Torino, Doug Larson, 1972 Chevelle and Bob Bennett, 1972 Chevelle took more than their share of wins.
Speaking of more than their share, Roger Paul, The “Flying” Farmer went on a tear in mid-summer of the year winning main events at Shawano, Seymour, again at Shawano and in Depere. Four wins in four nights of racing against the best the area had to offer, now that would make even the best paved racer proud!
As we mentioned earlier drivers don’t cross over at all anymore in terms of racing the same equipment on both surfaces. Harold Mueller a Western Wisconsin dirt track star who raced anywhere and everywhere did however utilize the same car in 1973 to race on both types of tracks. Beginning the year in his 1973 Chevy Laguna on the Central Wisconsin paved circuit, Mueller proceeded to frustrate nearly everyone he raced against with his foot to the floor, sideways through the corner “Style”. Most he competed against called it something other than that and weren’t too happy with Harold as they were used to clean, side by side racing with little or no contact. After awhile Harold realized he really didn’t belong racing straight into the corner and put the car with some adjustments back on the dirt. He went on to a bunch of big wins that year and never made another attempt racing on black top. Not to diminish from Mueller and what he did racing but he was way more suited for dirt than pavement. And the man could definitely handle a race car as his impressive number of wins through the years indicates.
Unbeknownst to many was the fact that Dick Trickle wrecked the Mustang he started the season with and was forced to build another one. There certainly wasn’t any drop off in performance with the second car and that fact came through loud and clear when he won the Badger Monza 150 at Capital Speedway. With three 50 lap features on the racing slate Trickle took the overall win by winning all three in convincing fashion! Having witnessed the event first hand I recall the closest anyone got to Trickle once he was in the lead was 10 car lengths. A thorough trouncing of the field it was.
Hard not to be impressed with the 1970s era of racing and the ’73 season had to be ranked right up there with the best of ‘em. The fact it was reasonable to travel then with gas prices less than a buck, and food practically a non-issue price wise you could make yourself very mobile and hit your favorite race event almost whenever you wanted. Still hard to fathom what it cost to get into these shows. Even special events offering anywhere from $5,000-$12,000 purses were reasonable to get into. The Dells track had a special event scheduled with a $6,000 purse. Adult admission, $3.50 with children 6-12 $.50. Unbelievable. Of course in my case if I could get in free all the better. Being a bit small in stature I’d get the under 12 free price wherever I went. I guess around the age of 17 tracks thought that a bit suspicious and finally I was forced to pay a buck or two to catch the racing. Of course a press pass or two later and back to free admittance, all I had to do was cover the events. The rest is history.
And here again, I’m glad we could give one and all a glimpse back in time of racing and how it used to be. We’ll bring you more special features when time and space allow. Here and there…Harold Mueller ended up winning 16 dirt features during the year after racing the first two months of the season on asphalt…Roger Paul captured 25 main event wins in 1973 racing in North Eastern Wisconsin…Dick Trickle followed up his record breaking 67 win season in 1972 with 47 feature wins in 1973.
Photos. One of two #99 Mustangs Dick Trickle raced in 1973. Mike Miller campaigned this 1970 Mustang #18 during the 1973 season. Fred Bender #56 was in double digits for feature wins in this Chevy Camaro in 1973. Terry Bivins #53 one of the few outsiders to score a Feature win in Wisconsin in 1973. #4 Bob Jusola another Minnesota driver scoring a win in Wisconsin. The #55s 1969 Camaro that Lyle Nabbefeldt sadly took his last ride in. Joe Ruttman #1 captured a huge win in the 200 lap Midwest Championship Feature at Dells Motor Speedway in 1973.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
Auto Racing Facts, Observances
December 2010
By Dale P. Danielski
With the off season of racing here and things quieted down a bit we’ll take the time now to do a little Retro-Racing.
One of the most significant changes in short track racing occurred in 1972 when the Pony cars or smaller sporty type cars officially arrived on the scene. Due to national trends in short track racing the most influential group in this part of the country, the Central Wisconsin Racing Association decided via it’s mostly driver membership voting power to allow 108 inch wheel base race cars and eliminate the big 18 inch or wider steam roller tires. An 11 inch maximum tire width was decided on mounted on a 10 inch rim and Ford Mustangs, Dodge Challengers and Chevy Camaros would now be the norm rather than exception at Wisconsin tracks. With the rule changes Central Wisconsin’s favorite drivers immediately began constructing new race cars for the upcoming season. Dick Trickle would be in a 1970 Mustang, Marv Marzofka planned to campaign a 1972 Moose Peterson backed Chevrolet Camaro, while Tom Reffner was putting together a 1967 Mustang. Others going the small car route were Lyle Nabbefeldt, 1968 Camaro, Jim Sauter 1972 Camaro and Jim Back, 1968 Mustang. Although the smaller wheelbase appeared to be the way to go many opted to take a wait and see attitude by sticking with the longer wheelbase cars they’d been racing successfully for years. Some of the hold outs included Rich Somers, 1969 Ford Torino, Tom Jensen, 1971 Torino, Bill Wirtz, 1972 Chevelle and National Short Track Champion from the previous year at Rockford Speedway Bill Retallick in a specially built Bobby Allison Chassis, Chevelle. John Rank a Milwaukee area Modified racer in previous years was set to hit the stock car scene in an immaculately prepared 1972 Camaro. Of Course Rank and Son was a very successful auto dealership in the South Eastern part of the State and most believed financing for his racing effort would make John a huge threat on the paved stock car circuit.
Of course who better to take advantage of the new car specifications then Trickle who was trying to better his 56 Feature wins of 1971. He already had 12 wins by Mid-May. Statewide tracks with the same rules again enabled drivers to race as much as they wanted during the season. A typical week found racers at North La Crosse Speedway on Wednesday, State Park Speedway of Wausau on Thursday, Capital Speedway of Oregon on Friday, Wis. Dells Motor Speedway Saturday and Golden Sands Speedway Plover, WI on Sunday. Sunday afternoons also found special events held at various tracks including Wisconsin International Raceway of Kaukauna, WI., while Tuesday night found an occasional big event held as well. Tracks in Columbus, Jefferson and West Salem, WI., also held weekly shows for the stock car group as did Rockford Speedway where Joe Shear began the season in a full sized Chevelle but soon switched over to a 1972 Camaro where he was in short order dominating. During one stretch in late May and early June Shear won 7 features in 8 tries. Wisconsin favorite Dave Marcis who was establishing himself racing in NASCAR came back home to Wisconsin and made a huge impact with a shorter wheelbase car in 1972 as the Wausau native teamed up with Dave Deppe to race in the USAC sanctioned race in Kaukauna in May. The 200 lap event found Marcis in his blue Chevy Nova number 37 racing to the win against the established veterans of the series in their full sized cars which did not go over very well at all. USAC did everything it could to find something wrong with the car including tearing down the engine in a dirty dusty area of the pits. Everything was legal and the win stood however further establishing a stranglehold for the little cars racing in 1972. Popularity was never higher for the drivers racing in the State as fans were flocking to tracks everywhere to watch them compete. With IMCA, USAC and NASCAR considered the big league attractions the short track stars and their pony cars were stealing their thunder as exciting racing was happening at paved track venues everywhere. That fact was made even clearer with the cancellation of a 250 lap USAC stock car race scheduled for August in Kaukauna. With few of the Wisconsin drivers having cars to compete in the race as rules were much different than what they raced under at the short tracks the main attraction of the event was lost. USAC still had star power with Ramo Stott, Butch Hartman, Verlin Eaker, Jack Bowsher and the open wheel guys like Foyt, Unser and McCluskey dropping in on occasion to race the stock cars, but the area now had its own top status with the short track guys. And with all the racing in this part of the Country and a chance at making some decent money most racers weren’t even considering heading South to NASCAR which at the time was no where near as financially desirable as it is today. Not that the best from the Midwest couldn’t compete in the South they chose not to as it meant more sacrifice than they were willing to take to fit in.
Action continued to heat up heading into summer with Trickle at 18 wins and Marv Marzofka up to 10 Main event victories. The two were taking much of the spotlight but others such as Larry Detjens in his 1971 Dodge Challenger and Throttle Stomping Lyle Nabbefeldt were also winning. Detjens scored a 100 lap win at Golden Sands Speedway while Nabbefeldt did the same in a special holiday event in late May. Long time racer and many feature event winner at Jefferson Speedway Dick Duerst decided if you can’t beat ‘em join ‘em as he debuted a Dodge Challenger in Mid-June at that track winning the main event. Not to be outdone John Ziegler was racing a Mustang in competition mostly in the Southern part of the State taking checkered flag after checkered flag at the Columbus 151 Speedway and a big win in the red, white and blue painted car at Capital Speedway which was drawing all the top drivers from every corner of the State. Interesting to note at this time that some drivers weren’t going the way of the new pony cars as Bryce Spoehr, ’37 Pontiac, Pappy Diemel and Ron Van Roy ’32 Fords, were racing and winning at tracks in Wisconsin’s Fox Valley with their older versions of pony cars, Coupes!
Across the border Illinois hot shoe Ed Hoffman hopped on the Pony Car bandwagon campaigning a radical Camaro Convertible to numerous wins at Illiana and Grundy County Speedways. Meanwhile across that other border in Minnesota the Wisconsin guys were still having their way with the Gopher State contingent as Tom Reffner in his ‘Stang took the Uncola 100 at Elko Speedway. Shear in his Camaro placed 2nd with Minnesota drivers putting up a good fight in their full size cars placing 3rd and 4th in the form of Dick Giles, ’67 Fairlane and Dan Prziborowski, ’67 Chevelle. The writing was definitely on the wall by this time for the big cars though and as of July 30th Trickle and Marzofka had roared to 44 and 17 Feature wins respectively. Almost everyone else was left literally just hoping for a top five finish as the dynamic duo continued to dominate action. Rich Bickle gave hope to the big car set winning a number of Features at Jefferson in his full size Ford but the day was near for all to be racing 108 inch wheel based cars. Even Bickle recognized that fact debuting a 1970 Mustang at Jefferson late in the season with a feature win.
Of course the Pony Car set knew they were on to a good thing as Trickle proved racing to the 300 lap win at I-70 Speedway of Odessa, MO. Trickle pocketed $4,645 in the process further hammering home the point of not needing the form of racing USAC offered.
Another really unique promotion going on at the time was the Late Model versus Milwaukee Stock Car Racing Association Modifieds challenge races. Capital and Golden Sands promoter Sam Bartus came up with the idea and events were held at those tracks along with Wis. Dells and others. The events pitted the Milwaukee Modified stock car guys in their smaller cubic inch engine but much lighter cars against the heavier full bodied mostly big block engined Late Model stock car group. The superior handling stock cars usually won out over the feather weight and faster on the straight a ways Mod set but what a cool concept nonetheless. How cool it was to see John Reimer, Ron Marish, Whitey Harris, Don Schuppel, Dick Duston, Fuzzy Fassbender, Aaron Solsrud, Jim Sullivan, Willie Goedon, Roger Otto, Bob Robel and up to 15 others go head to head on a regular basis against Dick Trickle, Joe Shear, John Ziegler, Dave Watson, Tom Reffner, Fred Bender, Jim Back, Marv Marzofka, John Rank and so many others for bragging rights.
With the season winding down the small car group with all its success was practically salivating in anticipation of the season ending high dollar event promotions. One such race was the 1st Annual Midwest Championship to be held at Dells Motor Speedway September 9-10. The event boasted of a $16,000 total purse pay-out with $2,500 going to the main event winner. Winning the race wasn’t going to be easy either as it featured 200 laps of tough racing on the small 1/3 mile Dells oval. Added incentive to attract drivers to the event was a $500 offering by promoter Howard Johnson to anyone outside the area that could win the 200 lap race. Attract drivers it did as Michigan hot shoes Ed Howe and Tom Maier entered along with Missouri star Larry Phillips. All told over 100 race cars were on hand for the event representing seven states. Big event; Big money. That meant Dick Trickle would be at the top of his game which he was, winning the 200 lap race for his 64th main event victory of the season. With the year Trickle and Marv Marzofka had it was only fitting they would finish 1-2 in the 200. Trickle also captured the 2nd Annual Old Style 200 later at Elko Speedway putting Wisconsin up 3-1 over the Minnesota contingent in the challenge races held there in 1971 and ’72. Bill Oas did finally break the ice in his Big Car by scoring a win for Minnesota against the pony cars with his victory in the Uncola Rematch in 1972. As is quite well documented Trickle and Marzofka scored 67 and 32 main event wins respectively during the 1972 racing season. The Pony Car ushered in the latest revolution in short track stock car racing as lightweight cars with big horsepower engines became a necessity if you wanted to win or even compete. The domination displayed by a handful of drivers in their areas that took a chance on constructing their version of the cars will probably never be duplicated. The 67 feature win mark set in a single season of racing certainly seems out of reach.
We offer this quote of the column for our latest writing effort. “You CAN get the black flag for driving like an a******”. Everyone listened as the black flag was not given during the race. That quote from a person remaining anonymous!
The pony car revolution, Lyle Nabbefeldt #55s and Dave Marcis #37. Sticking with the full size machines in 1972 was #0 Bill Wirtz, and #25 Bill Oas. Whitey Harris raced this modified #A3 in the 1970s for Fred Nielsen, while he also raced a Pony Car late Model Camaro also #A3.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
November 2010
By Dale P. Danielski
I think if I planned on racing at the Annual Oktoberfest event at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway I’d make my car number 36. Why? Joe Shear was #36 and is the only 5 time winner. Dan Fredrickson is a three time winner having taken the last 3 out of four top billed events and guess what his number is? Number 36!
Maybe there is nothing to it but that number has sure had great success through the years at ‘Fest. In this years race it was practically a run away as Fredrickson took the lead early in the 100 lap feature and cruised to a pretty easy win. Even a caution on lap 75 failed to tighten things up as Fredrickson went about his business and crossed under the checkered flag with a comfortable margin.
For others it’s championship winning time at Oktoberfest as numerous of those are determined at the event every year. Steve Carlson added another to his long list as he became the 2010 ASA Midwest Tour Champion holding off Chris Wimmer in the final standings. The NASCAR Late Model track Championship was also settled during the weekend with Shawn Pfaff claiming the title by a scant one point over defending titlist J. Herbst. A late race pass for position in the feature by Kevin Nuttleman, the cagey veteran Champion himself, over J. Herbst ended up being the determining factor. That along with Pfaff’s 4th place finish in the 40 lapper was just enough to give the Sparta, WI., driver the title. For Pfaff who was bound and determined to win it this year after a late 2009 season car flipping wreck it was a great relief. For Herbst it was where did I lose that one point!
With all the great racing that goes on at this event you might be surprised to know that some folks don’t even head into the grandstands to watch! For those people it’s one big party in the Camping City which is the Fairgrounds for a week in October. Of course much goes on besides the racing and having had the chance to witness some of it this year I dare say it was almost as entertaining as the racing. Of particular interest was the pet costume parade. Meant for the pets which range from dogs to cats to ferrets to who knows what all, it’s the pet owners and how they dress that really steals the show. A Wizard of Oz characters depiction, a bee costume worn by an owner with her dog as the hive. Those were the two big winners by the way but all the others in the show deserve credit also. It had the large gathering witnessing it, yours truly included laughing most of the time. Of course it doesn’t hurt to have a guy with the name of Dick Trickle on hand to help with the judging either.
So much to do so much to see, that is the Annual Oktoberfest Racing weekend. The 2011 version is set for October 6-9. You really should make plans to attend.
With weather conditions October 30 almost balmy we decided to make the trip over to Columbus 151 Speedway for Matt Rowe’s Impact Survival Series season finale 300 lap Enduro. Competitors apparently thought the same as 92 strong arrived to start the event on the ¼ mile paved oval. To participate in ISS you need a mostly stock 4 cylinder car. According to long time Late Model competitor Kirby Kurth who was racing today a roll cage for $300 and another couple hundred bucks and you can be on the race track. With a $500 investment the winners share for the 300 of $1,200 looked pretty darned good too! Matt Rowe definitely lays down the law in a very colorful way as to how he wants things to go in the Series. It’s entertainment for the fans first before a racing event for drivers and you better listen or find yourself on the trailer and headed home early if you don’t. One aspect of the show is if your car stalls on the track and sits for two laps the red flag comes out and you are allowed to get out. The car however stays right where you left it or crashed it in most cases. “Where they die they lie” is the rule according to Rowe. This definitely makes for drivers taking some interesting lines around the race track as an oval now becomes an obstacle course. All in all things went quite smooth on this day and after 300 rounds of the Columbus oval it was Frank Calabrese taking the win and as it turned out the 2010 season championship. Of the 92 cars starting 39 managed to make it to the finish many of course much worse for wear. In talking to some of the teams the approach to this type of competition is very different than your normal short track fare. The majority really are out here just to have fun. And what is the key to winning. Keeping the car running. It’s not about speed it’s about having fewer problems than the others and finishing…Some well known racers were on hand for this event including Jerry and Eddie Muenster, Davey Pennel and Harley Jankowski…Kirby Kurth was on the scene with a two car team his and one that his wife Cheri drove. Both finished in the top 20 on the day…The great Pumpkin driven car didn’t fare too well. After “Dying” on the race track and having to “Lie” the car was finally able to be moved at the 1/2 way break. Upon heading to the pits with it he drove smack into a head on collision with a car that was heading out on to the track! Frustrated at that point Punky drove the car off in the woods behind the pit area and walked…or sort of rolled away…We’ve witnessed some tardy racers in our day but the participant that showed up at 3:30 for a 2pm start race to compete today takes the Halloween candy. He was allowed to start but the rest of the field had 235 laps on him by that time! Making the story wilder, after about 5 laps he pulled into the pits for lengthy repairs…Pretty cool to see a car with a sponsor listed from Brantwood, Wisconsin. Brantwood is the town (population of about 3 according to some) where the driver resided that gave me my first ever fast ride in a stock car. That was in 1968 or so and we’re still involved in the sport today… Matt Rowe is shooting for 5-7 ISS events in 2011. Hopefully the Series is endorsed by large fields of cars as was the case today. Seems like a great way to have fun racing without all the huge expense. Here and there…The Oktoberfest Racing weekend is mostly attended by in the know fans rather than casual observers. Therefore they understand much of the racing lingo. But for those that don’t can you imagine what they think with verbiage used such as…She’s too tight going in…It’s really loose coming out…Adjust the bar a little…We’re a bit better on the high side…Side bite is OK but we need more forward bite…With a slide job I can get around…I don’t think we have enough stagger…it’s pushing in the center probably need to get up on the cushion…My lord, who and what are we describing here!!! No wonder folks new to the sport get that bewildered look on their face, at least initially. Hopefully they begin to understand if we can keep them around long enough…32 Champions were in attendance for the Champions Reunion at ‘Fest on Sunday. With that turnout it’s been decided to do it again in 2011. If you are a Champion of any kind any series any division any track and haven’t raced in three years you are invited…Sparta, WI., Late Model driver Davey Pennel finished 3rd in the final vote among 12 drivers having a shot at an ARCA race ride this past year at Rockingham North Carolina Speedway through the Richard Petty Driver Search program. Top honors went to Ryan Wilson of nearby Randleman, NC, but according to Davey’s dad Dean, the $15,000 investment and experience were worth it. “We learned so much while we were down there. It really helped us as when we came back we were able to qualify 3rd at Oktoberfest in the Big 8 Division”. As for 2011 plans Pennel is going for the Dells Raceway Park Championship which they came so close to winning this year…The Sauter jinx at Oktoberfest returned after taking a year off as defending ASA Tour winner Travis Sauter blew an engine while practicing and backed into the wall ending his racing weekend prematurely… Looks like we will have another young driver trying to make his mark in Super Late Model Racing in 2011. Gary Kawleski a racer in Central Wisconsin awhile back has purchased a car and will be putting Colin Reffner in it. The team plans to race in a number of special events including with the ASA Midwest Tour if things go well. Reffner of course did some Super Late Model racing this year but a more full time effort will take place in 2011. And that arrangement leads us to the quote of the column by Gary Kawleski. “Dick Trickle and Tom Reffner will serve as mentors for Colin and the team so I think we’ll run pretty good”…Looks like the ASA Midwest Tour will be expanding a bit in 2011. Newton, Iowa is back on the schedule and it appears the Milwaukee Mile, State Park Speedway in Wausau and the Grundy County Speedway of Morris, IL., will be in the fold this year as well…So just what was the significance of the date 10/10/10 which occurred during Oktoberfest racing weekend? Absolutely nothing near as we can tell as our computer is still operating, the date on our VCR changed, (Yes, still have one of those) and the sun is still coming up in the east in the morning! Photo ISS Weekend Warriors ready to race at Columbus 151 Speedway. Photo from the past Dick Trickle in his Pabst powered race car, 1985. Trickle won both the ASA and ARTGO titles that year.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
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AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
October 2010
By Dale P. Danielski
With the huge Oktoberfest Racing weekend coming up October 7-10 at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway in West Salem, WI., we thought we’d take a look by both photo and print at some of those that have competed there through the years.
Of course as is pretty well known now, Tom Reffner won the first ever Oktoberfest race back in 1970 in a 1969 Mercury Cyclone. What folks might not know is that Reffner had raced a 1969 Mercury Comet throughout the majority of the 1970 season. He raced that car at La Crosse but hit the backstretch wall which severely wrecked the machine. According to Reffner, “The backstretch wall would suck you right into it. We hit it and it really wrecked the body on the car so we put a different one on, a Mercury Cyclone. That made a big difference as far as aerodynamics compared to the Comet and we ended up winning the race.” Reffner would then race a Cyclone bodied car in 1971 winning a number of races and special events.
It wasn’t until 1973 that this scribe was actually able to attend an Oktoberfest but what a race we saw that year. At 200 laps scoring became an issue and when the event was done Rich Somers was given the checkered flag 1st. Marv Marzofka who had led much of the way wasn’t buying any of that however and he vehemently argued his point with promoter Larry Wehrs. Marzofka won the argument and ultimately was declared the race winner. Marzofka went a bit under the radar during his racing days but when all was said and done he had won hundreds of feature races!
In the 1970s with the popularity of the sport growing and attendance following suit, companies were beginning to get more interested in sponsoring race cars at the short track level much like they were in major sanctioned events.. That was certainly the case with 1978 ‘Fest winner Dave Watson who raced his Amzoil sponsored car to victory.
Jumpin’ Jimmy Back chose to get in on the race car fabricating business and showed how quick his equipment was as Bac-Kar Chassis’ won in 1982, ‘83 and ’84 with drivers Jim Back, Tom Reffner and Bryan Reffner behind the wheel.
Of course we would be remiss if we didn’t mention Joe Shear who won the ‘Fest 5 times. Shear is also the only driver to win it three consecutive years 1994, ’95 and ’96. If not for Cancer cutting his life short, Shear more than likely would have added to his win total.
A changing of the guard in short track racing was beginning to take place in the late 1980s. The now veteran drivers were still able to win but next generation and upstart racers were making their marks on the sport as names Rich Bickle, Jr., Ted Musgrave, Scott Hansen, Tom Carlson, and Matt Kenseth entered victory lane with ‘Fest wins. The 1990s and early 2000s brought more of the same as Terry Baldry, Eddie Hoffman, Steve Carlson, Brian Hoppe and Tim Schendal etched their names in the record books as Oktoberfest main event winners. Hoffman won the event 3 out of 4 years between 1998 and 2001. With the first decade of the 2000s about to be completed another generation of racer is at the forefront with Dan Fredrickson and Travis Sauter the latest victors. The next 10 years will bring more of the same and hopefully we can continue to bring it to you right here with more written words and photos!
Here and there…We’d probably be more inclined to catch additional dirt shows during the year if the events didn’t meet each other coming and going in the early am hours. Not that some pavement shows don’t run long but late starts, long delays for track farming, and numerous other stoppages really are a problem with the dirt set. Maybe it’s due to the higher 1st place pay-offs of said events. Everyone thinks they can win on the first lap!... Speaking of dirt, did see Modified veteran Kevin Pittman take a main event win at the Cresco Speedway in Cresco, Iowa in their 2010 season closer. Discussion at the event had the track more than likely racing on a weekly basis in 2011 as this season it was special events only…Happy, Texas was truly that here recently as Rodney Sanders who hails from that town captured the big $12,000 to win 50 lap feature at Mississippi Thunder Speedway of Fountain City, WI., this past month…Frank Kreyer had a hot and cold day at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., for their racing season closer as he won the first 50 lap feature of the day before launching his car through the fence and out of the park in the 2nd main. Jeff Weinfurter who has limited his appearances in 2010 went on to win that race…With a feature win and consistent finishes during the year Mark Kraus was crowned the Yellow River Racing Series Champion at the track…Quote of the column from Marv Marzofka upon retiring from racing. “It took me three years before I could watch a race after quitting. I went to a snowmobile race and almost bought one of those to get back in it, I was just so competitive.” Marzofka thought better of that idea and never did return although he does help a grandson that is now competing…
Photos: Larry Detjens #25 who won ‘Fest in 1976 and ’77 showed much in the way of professionalism both with sharp looking race cars and well dressed crews upon entering the late model ranks in 1971. Another in that long line of Carlson’s that raced at ‘Fest this being #4 Tim Carlson, circa 1973. Marv Marzofka #91 1973 ‘Fest winner. Marzofka won 17 main events during the season. 1978 ‘Fest winner #37 Dave Watson with corporate sponsor Amzoil on board. Five time ‘Fest winner #36 Joe Shear. Shear for many years started his season in February in Florida. This photo is from New SmyrnaSpeedway, 1985. Eddie Hoffman #8, a 3 time ‘Fest with the car he campaigned in 1997. Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
October 2010
By Dale P. Danielski
With the huge Oktoberfest Racing weekend coming up October 7-10 at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway in West Salem, WI., we thought we’d take a look by both photo and print at some of those that have competed there through the years.
Of course as is pretty well known now, Tom Reffner won the first ever Oktoberfest race back in 1970 in a 1969 Mercury Cyclone. What folks might not know is that Reffner had raced a 1969 Mercury Comet throughout the majority of the 1970 season. He raced that car at La Crosse but hit the backstretch wall which severely wrecked the machine. According to Reffner, “The backstretch wall would suck you right into it. We hit it and it really wrecked the body on the car so we put a different one on, a Mercury Cyclone. That made a big difference as far as aerodynamics compared to the Comet and we ended up winning the race.” Reffner would then race a Cyclone bodied car in 1971 winning a number of races and special events.
It wasn’t until 1973 that this scribe was actually able to attend an Oktoberfest but what a race we saw that year. At 200 laps scoring became an issue and when the event was done Rich Somers was given the checkered flag 1st. Marv Marzofka who had led much of the way wasn’t buying any of that however and he vehemently argued his point with promoter Larry Wehrs. Marzofka won the argument and ultimately was declared the race winner. Marzofka went a bit under the radar during his racing days but when all was said and done he had won hundreds of feature races!
In the 1970s with the popularity of the sport growing and attendance following suit, companies were beginning to get more interested in sponsoring race cars at the short track level much like they were in major sanctioned events.. That was certainly the case with 1978 ‘Fest winner Dave Watson who raced his Amzoil sponsored car to victory.
Jumpin’ Jimmy Back chose to get in on the race car fabricating business and showed how quick his equipment was as Bac-Kar Chassis’ won in 1982, ‘83 and ’84 with drivers Jim Back, Tom Reffner and Bryan Reffner behind the wheel.
Of course we would be remiss if we didn’t mention Joe Shear who won the ‘Fest 5 times. Shear is also the only driver to win it three consecutive years 1994, ’95 and ’96. If not for Cancer cutting his life short, Shear more than likely would have added to his win total.
A changing of the guard in short track racing was beginning to take place in the late 1980s. The now veteran drivers were still able to win but next generation and upstart racers were making their marks on the sport as names Rich Bickle, Jr., Ted Musgrave, Scott Hansen, Tom Carlson, and Matt Kenseth entered victory lane with ‘Fest wins. The 1990s and early 2000s brought more of the same as Terry Baldry, Eddie Hoffman, Steve Carlson, Brian Hoppe and Tim Schendal etched their names in the record books as Oktoberfest main event winners. Hoffman won the event 3 out of 4 years between 1998 and 2001. With the first decade of the 2000s about to be completed another generation of racer is at the forefront with Dan Fredrickson and Travis Sauter the latest victors. The next 10 years will bring more of the same and hopefully we can continue to bring it to you right here with more written words and photos!
Here and there…We’d probably be more inclined to catch additional dirt shows during the year if the events didn’t meet each other coming and going in the early am hours. Not that some pavement shows don’t run long but late starts, long delays for track farming, and numerous other stoppages really are a problem with the dirt set. Maybe it’s due to the higher 1st place pay-offs of said events. Everyone thinks they can win on the first lap!... Speaking of dirt, did see Modified veteran Kevin Pittman take a main event win at the Cresco Speedway in Cresco, Iowa in their 2010 season closer. Discussion at the event had the track more than likely racing on a weekly basis in 2011 as this season it was special events only…Happy, Texas was truly that here recently as Rodney Sanders who hails from that town captured the big $12,000 to win 50 lap feature at Mississippi Thunder Speedway of Fountain City, WI., this past month…Frank Kreyer had a hot and cold day at Marshfield Motor Speedway, Marshfield, WI., for their racing season closer as he won the first 50 lap feature of the day before launching his car through the fence and out of the park in the 2nd main. Jeff Weinfurter who has limited his appearances in 2010 went on to win that race…With a feature win and consistent finishes during the year Mark Kraus was crowned the Yellow River Racing Series Champion at the track…Quote of the column from Marv Marzofka upon retiring from racing. “It took me three years before I could watch a race after quitting. I went to a snowmobile race and almost bought one of those to get back in it, I was just so competitive.” Marzofka thought better of that idea and never did return although he does help a grandson that is now competing…
Photos: Larry Detjens #25 who won ‘Fest in 1976 and ’77 showed much in the way of professionalism both with sharp looking race cars and well dressed crews upon entering the late model ranks in 1971. Another in that long line of Carlson’s that raced at ‘Fest this being #4 Tim Carlson, circa 1973. Marv Marzofka #91 1973 ‘Fest winner. Marzofka won 17 main events during the season. 1978 ‘Fest winner #37 Dave Watson with corporate sponsor Amzoil on board. Five time ‘Fest winner #36 Joe Shear. Shear for many years started his season in February in Florida. This photo is from New SmyrnaSpeedway, 1985. Eddie Hoffman #8, a 3 time ‘Fest with the car he campaigned in 1997. Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
Auto Racing Facts Observances and opinions
October 2010
Auto Racing Facts Observances and opinions
September 2, 2010
By Dale P. Danielski
It certainly was nice to see the great crowd on hand for the return of the ASA Midwest Tour to Marshfield Motor Speedway Saturday, August 21st. Yes indeed there are plenty of paved racing fans in the area and on this day they were treated to some excellent racing on the ½ mile asphalt oval.
A fine field of 32 cars checked in for the Tour race and when all preliminary racing was complete 26 of them were set to do battle in the 100 lap feature event. If you would have predicted that Chris Wimmer would lead all 100 laps of the feature going into this race where passing is at a premium, most folks would have thought you crazy. But that’s exactly what happened, as Wimmer was launched off the front row of the field like a rocket into a lead he would not relinquish. A number of caution slowing incidents tightened up the field but Wimmer was able to thwart all attempts by his competition to take away the lead and motor on to win his first Tour feature of 2010. With the victory Wimmer has now taken over the Tour point lead with two events remaining. Chris Weinkauf continued his banner 2010 season by placing 2nd and was followed by Skylar Holzhausen, who briefly tasted the lead in the main but not where it counted at the start finish line, Andrew Morrissey, Mark Eswein, fast qualifier Nate Haseleu, Travis Sauter all the way from 21st starting spot, Jamie Iverson, Jacob Goede and Tour rookie Thor Anderson the top 10. Many battles took place throughout the field and even though Wimmer led every lap none of the fans on hand left thinking they saw a ho-hum race. The 100 lap grind was more eventful for some than others. Jamie Iverson had a fender knocked off before rebounding to finish 8th. Ross Kenseth who qualified poorly was nonetheless making his way to the front in the feature. Contact sent him spinning though and to the back of the pack he went for the restart. Again making progress he next suffered with a flat tire. A quick change of rubber again put him in the back on the restart where he worked his way up to 12th at the finish. Michael Bilderback had a decent run going when he suddenly found himself climbing the grass embankment in turn 3. With his car at close to a 90 degree angle on the hill things looked bleak. Amazingly though, Bilderback was able to drive away and continued on to a 19th place finish the last car completing 100 laps. Nick Murgic who has had some very strong runs of late wasn’t so lucky as he backed into the barriers off turn 4 damaging his race car. A 22nd place finish was all he had to show for his efforts after racing in the top 10 all evening. Steve Carlson suffered through a tough night of racing which in itself is rare. Choosing to race his blue car over the orange one he usually competes on the Tour with, Carlson qualified 14th before racing to a win in the even qualifier dash. That turned out to be the highlight of his evening though as he found himself facing the wrong way after a spin in the 100 lap feature event, eventually placing 17th in the final running order.
Definitely not a ho-hum evening of racing at Marshfield Motor Speedway. With all that occurred tonight you can bet the last two ASA Midwest Tour events will produce much the same with a champion crowned at the Annual Oktoberfest weekend of racing October 7-10.
Here and there…Ross Kenseth will be starting his senior year of high school this fall and will again be on the basketball team. “We were 17-10 last year and I’m hoping we’ll be better this year.” No word yet on what and where he will be racing in 2011 though, but I have to believe the southland will beckon here in the very near future…Dan Fredrickson who was well up in the standings heading into the Marshfield ASA Tour event missed the show and has now fallen all the way to 12th…As reported in our last effort Steve Holzhausen after his bad wreck at Dells Raceway Park was scheduled for surgery on his lower leg and ankle. The surgery went well but Holzhausen will definitely not be racing anymore this year…This week’s quote of the column comes from Bryan Reffner. “I was resetting my tach, looked up and there was Nathan Haseleu’s car. With no time to stop I hit him!” This, mind you was in the pit area while teams were practicing in preparation for the Marshfield 100 ASA Tour race! Things didn’t get a whole lot better for Reffner either as he qualified on time for the 100 lap main but pulled out early on the way to a 24th place finish... Speaking of the “Fest and of course my interest in racing from years past, Champions Reunion II will be held at the track Sunday October 10 in the Hospitality Chalet beginning at 11am. If you are a series, track, or previous Oktoberfest feature winning champion from 2008 on back and haven’t raced since, you are invited! Food and beverage and a whole lot of fun. Get ahold of yours truly at the address below if you plan to attend… Photos: #52 Chris Wimmer scored the 100 lap win in the Marshfield 100 ASA Midwest Tour race. #87 Bryan Reffner in the Late Model he raced in Wisconsin in 1984.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
By Dale P. Danielski
It certainly was nice to see the great crowd on hand for the return of the ASA Midwest Tour to Marshfield Motor Speedway Saturday, August 21st. Yes indeed there are plenty of paved racing fans in the area and on this day they were treated to some excellent racing on the ½ mile asphalt oval.
A fine field of 32 cars checked in for the Tour race and when all preliminary racing was complete 26 of them were set to do battle in the 100 lap feature event. If you would have predicted that Chris Wimmer would lead all 100 laps of the feature going into this race where passing is at a premium, most folks would have thought you crazy. But that’s exactly what happened, as Wimmer was launched off the front row of the field like a rocket into a lead he would not relinquish. A number of caution slowing incidents tightened up the field but Wimmer was able to thwart all attempts by his competition to take away the lead and motor on to win his first Tour feature of 2010. With the victory Wimmer has now taken over the Tour point lead with two events remaining. Chris Weinkauf continued his banner 2010 season by placing 2nd and was followed by Skylar Holzhausen, who briefly tasted the lead in the main but not where it counted at the start finish line, Andrew Morrissey, Mark Eswein, fast qualifier Nate Haseleu, Travis Sauter all the way from 21st starting spot, Jamie Iverson, Jacob Goede and Tour rookie Thor Anderson the top 10. Many battles took place throughout the field and even though Wimmer led every lap none of the fans on hand left thinking they saw a ho-hum race. The 100 lap grind was more eventful for some than others. Jamie Iverson had a fender knocked off before rebounding to finish 8th. Ross Kenseth who qualified poorly was nonetheless making his way to the front in the feature. Contact sent him spinning though and to the back of the pack he went for the restart. Again making progress he next suffered with a flat tire. A quick change of rubber again put him in the back on the restart where he worked his way up to 12th at the finish. Michael Bilderback had a decent run going when he suddenly found himself climbing the grass embankment in turn 3. With his car at close to a 90 degree angle on the hill things looked bleak. Amazingly though, Bilderback was able to drive away and continued on to a 19th place finish the last car completing 100 laps. Nick Murgic who has had some very strong runs of late wasn’t so lucky as he backed into the barriers off turn 4 damaging his race car. A 22nd place finish was all he had to show for his efforts after racing in the top 10 all evening. Steve Carlson suffered through a tough night of racing which in itself is rare. Choosing to race his blue car over the orange one he usually competes on the Tour with, Carlson qualified 14th before racing to a win in the even qualifier dash. That turned out to be the highlight of his evening though as he found himself facing the wrong way after a spin in the 100 lap feature event, eventually placing 17th in the final running order.
Definitely not a ho-hum evening of racing at Marshfield Motor Speedway. With all that occurred tonight you can bet the last two ASA Midwest Tour events will produce much the same with a champion crowned at the Annual Oktoberfest weekend of racing October 7-10.
Here and there…Ross Kenseth will be starting his senior year of high school this fall and will again be on the basketball team. “We were 17-10 last year and I’m hoping we’ll be better this year.” No word yet on what and where he will be racing in 2011 though, but I have to believe the southland will beckon here in the very near future…Dan Fredrickson who was well up in the standings heading into the Marshfield ASA Tour event missed the show and has now fallen all the way to 12th…As reported in our last effort Steve Holzhausen after his bad wreck at Dells Raceway Park was scheduled for surgery on his lower leg and ankle. The surgery went well but Holzhausen will definitely not be racing anymore this year…This week’s quote of the column comes from Bryan Reffner. “I was resetting my tach, looked up and there was Nathan Haseleu’s car. With no time to stop I hit him!” This, mind you was in the pit area while teams were practicing in preparation for the Marshfield 100 ASA Tour race! Things didn’t get a whole lot better for Reffner either as he qualified on time for the 100 lap main but pulled out early on the way to a 24th place finish... Speaking of the “Fest and of course my interest in racing from years past, Champions Reunion II will be held at the track Sunday October 10 in the Hospitality Chalet beginning at 11am. If you are a series, track, or previous Oktoberfest feature winning champion from 2008 on back and haven’t raced since, you are invited! Food and beverage and a whole lot of fun. Get ahold of yours truly at the address below if you plan to attend… Photos: #52 Chris Wimmer scored the 100 lap win in the Marshfield 100 ASA Midwest Tour race. #87 Bryan Reffner in the Late Model he raced in Wisconsin in 1984.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827 or at dale@starmakermultimedia.com
Auto Racing Facts Observances and Opinions
August 19 2010
By Dale P. Danielski
Should I stay or should I go? That was the dilemma facing Steve Carlson here Saturday whether to stay and race in his hometown of West Salem, WI., at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway where the track and NASCAR State titles beckon, or race at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., in the ASA Midwest Tour event where he also is atop of the current point standings. Events were being held on the same night at both tracks so it was decision making time for Carlson.
As it turns out the decision was not that difficult for Carlson. He chose to race in the ASA Tour event at Dells Raceway Park of Wis. Dells Wisconsin. “I got disqualified that one night at La Crosse (Earlier this year for not passing tech) and that kind of made me mad, so we’re racing the ASA Midwest Tour. The NASCAR State Championship pays a little more than the Tour Championship but in the end they both come out about the same.” After placing 4th in the Wisconsin Dells 100 lap feature Carlson still maintains his lead in the ASA standings while being away from La Crosse Fairgrounds now sees him in 5th place in points. The La Crosse track title is now more than likely out of reach but amazingly Carlson still has a chance at taking the NASCAR State title. That championship is determined by feature race finishes only, and with Carlson having won 6 main events there this year he still has a mathematical chance to win it. The two schedules again conflict with events on August 21st so it all could be a moot point by the next time you read these written words.
Meanwhile the ASA Midwest Tour held their event in front of a great crowd at the Wis. Dells 1/3 mile paved oval. Tim Schendel who has been fast on numerous occasions but unable to close the deal, did so here tonight pulling away at the end to win the 100 lap finale. Chris Weinkauf in the midst of one of his best seasons finished 2nd with Griffin Mc Grath placing a hard earned 3rd. Steve Carlson, Andrew Morrissey and fast qualifier on the night Chris Wimmer rounded out the top 6 finishers. Much of the discussion on the night was not on placing well but on Steve Holzhausen who had the throttle stick on his car while practicing sending it full bore into the number three turn wall. Holzhausen received a sizeable cut on his chin and was also scheduled for surgery for ankle and leg injuries. As for the Pete Kempf owned car it appeared to be a total loss. According to Holzhausen, it was the hardest hit he’s ever taken while racing. But according to son Skylar Holzhausen who was also racing tonight, Steve will be back. “He’s tough. Unless age has something to do with it, if he thinks he can do it, he will.” The doing it in this case is trying to get back in the car this season and finish a few things he started. Winning the Red, White and Blue State Championship at Wisconsin International Raceway of Kaukauna, WI., was one such goal but with that Series’ concluding event on Thursday August 19th it is doubtful it will be met. The other issue is a race car as with the wreck of this one what’s left to drive? The 2nd Kempf owned machine isn’t race ready yet but with some modifications the car that Skylar drove to an 8th place finish tonight could be used. But the big question remains, is it even feasible to think that the elder Holzhausen could be ready and cleared to race so soon? Like Skylar says, “ He’s tough. He had a cast once for a broken hand that was supposed to be on for 6 weeks. He cut it off in two so he could go racing!”
Here and there…Tim Schendel is getting a chance to do some NASCAR Nationwide racing this year. Schendel qualified for the event held recently at Iowa Speedway and may be competing in 4-5 more before the season is out, that is if he can get the car in the shows…Chris Weinkauf and his wife Wendi have been in competition all racing season as to whom would cut there hair first. Both have been holding out and with the season Chris is having, 8 feature wins, most of which have been special events, he’s not sure he wants to now as it may change his luck for the worse. It’s been one hot summer but a small inconvenience of a bit too long of hair is worth it if the wins keep coming…Griffin Mc Grath’s 3rd place finish at the Dells was his best of the season. More impressive was he did it with a broken hand!... For the first time in 4 years of ASA Tour competition Jeff Storm was forced to use a provisional starting position. He used the spot to place 14th in the Wisconsin Dells 100 lap feature…Johnny Sauter came back home to Wisconsin to race in the ASA Midwest Tour Dixieland 150 at Wisconsin International Raceway August 3rd. He set fast time in qualifying and backed the effort up by winning the 150 lap feature event… Things have really tightened up point wise at La Crosse Fairgrounds. The NASCAR Late Model standings find J. Herbst up by just a single point over Shawn Pfaff who won the most recent feature held at the track. Still within striking distance are Todd Korish, Brent Kirchner and Steve Carlson…Quote of the column this time around is from a track worker at the ASA Tour WIR Dixieland event. “It’s two degrees hotter than hell here today” I could vouch for that having been there myself… To WIR that is… Photos: Tim Schendel brakes glowing on the way to a win in the Wisconsin Dells 100 ASA Midwest Tour event. When traveling to events was cool, Ed Howe Beaverton, MI., in his Brand X AMC Javelin at Wis. Dells in 1974.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
By Dale P. Danielski
Should I stay or should I go? That was the dilemma facing Steve Carlson here Saturday whether to stay and race in his hometown of West Salem, WI., at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway where the track and NASCAR State titles beckon, or race at Dells Raceway Park, Wis. Dells, WI., in the ASA Midwest Tour event where he also is atop of the current point standings. Events were being held on the same night at both tracks so it was decision making time for Carlson.
As it turns out the decision was not that difficult for Carlson. He chose to race in the ASA Tour event at Dells Raceway Park of Wis. Dells Wisconsin. “I got disqualified that one night at La Crosse (Earlier this year for not passing tech) and that kind of made me mad, so we’re racing the ASA Midwest Tour. The NASCAR State Championship pays a little more than the Tour Championship but in the end they both come out about the same.” After placing 4th in the Wisconsin Dells 100 lap feature Carlson still maintains his lead in the ASA standings while being away from La Crosse Fairgrounds now sees him in 5th place in points. The La Crosse track title is now more than likely out of reach but amazingly Carlson still has a chance at taking the NASCAR State title. That championship is determined by feature race finishes only, and with Carlson having won 6 main events there this year he still has a mathematical chance to win it. The two schedules again conflict with events on August 21st so it all could be a moot point by the next time you read these written words.
Meanwhile the ASA Midwest Tour held their event in front of a great crowd at the Wis. Dells 1/3 mile paved oval. Tim Schendel who has been fast on numerous occasions but unable to close the deal, did so here tonight pulling away at the end to win the 100 lap finale. Chris Weinkauf in the midst of one of his best seasons finished 2nd with Griffin Mc Grath placing a hard earned 3rd. Steve Carlson, Andrew Morrissey and fast qualifier on the night Chris Wimmer rounded out the top 6 finishers. Much of the discussion on the night was not on placing well but on Steve Holzhausen who had the throttle stick on his car while practicing sending it full bore into the number three turn wall. Holzhausen received a sizeable cut on his chin and was also scheduled for surgery for ankle and leg injuries. As for the Pete Kempf owned car it appeared to be a total loss. According to Holzhausen, it was the hardest hit he’s ever taken while racing. But according to son Skylar Holzhausen who was also racing tonight, Steve will be back. “He’s tough. Unless age has something to do with it, if he thinks he can do it, he will.” The doing it in this case is trying to get back in the car this season and finish a few things he started. Winning the Red, White and Blue State Championship at Wisconsin International Raceway of Kaukauna, WI., was one such goal but with that Series’ concluding event on Thursday August 19th it is doubtful it will be met. The other issue is a race car as with the wreck of this one what’s left to drive? The 2nd Kempf owned machine isn’t race ready yet but with some modifications the car that Skylar drove to an 8th place finish tonight could be used. But the big question remains, is it even feasible to think that the elder Holzhausen could be ready and cleared to race so soon? Like Skylar says, “ He’s tough. He had a cast once for a broken hand that was supposed to be on for 6 weeks. He cut it off in two so he could go racing!”
Here and there…Tim Schendel is getting a chance to do some NASCAR Nationwide racing this year. Schendel qualified for the event held recently at Iowa Speedway and may be competing in 4-5 more before the season is out, that is if he can get the car in the shows…Chris Weinkauf and his wife Wendi have been in competition all racing season as to whom would cut there hair first. Both have been holding out and with the season Chris is having, 8 feature wins, most of which have been special events, he’s not sure he wants to now as it may change his luck for the worse. It’s been one hot summer but a small inconvenience of a bit too long of hair is worth it if the wins keep coming…Griffin Mc Grath’s 3rd place finish at the Dells was his best of the season. More impressive was he did it with a broken hand!... For the first time in 4 years of ASA Tour competition Jeff Storm was forced to use a provisional starting position. He used the spot to place 14th in the Wisconsin Dells 100 lap feature…Johnny Sauter came back home to Wisconsin to race in the ASA Midwest Tour Dixieland 150 at Wisconsin International Raceway August 3rd. He set fast time in qualifying and backed the effort up by winning the 150 lap feature event… Things have really tightened up point wise at La Crosse Fairgrounds. The NASCAR Late Model standings find J. Herbst up by just a single point over Shawn Pfaff who won the most recent feature held at the track. Still within striking distance are Todd Korish, Brent Kirchner and Steve Carlson…Quote of the column this time around is from a track worker at the ASA Tour WIR Dixieland event. “It’s two degrees hotter than hell here today” I could vouch for that having been there myself… To WIR that is… Photos: Tim Schendel brakes glowing on the way to a win in the Wisconsin Dells 100 ASA Midwest Tour event. When traveling to events was cool, Ed Howe Beaverton, MI., in his Brand X AMC Javelin at Wis. Dells in 1974.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
Auto Racing Facts Observances and Opinions
August 5, 2010
By Dale P. Danielski
The tale of the 3/8 mile dirt track located in Unity, WI., actually began with plans to run Highway 10 right through the other longstanding track in the area, Central State Speedway in Colby, WI. With highway construction completed it was time to construct another track in the vicinity and thus the Monster Hall Raceway was born to carry on racing tradition in Central Wisconsin.
Promotion teams and ownership have changed through the years and upon our visit this past Friday night we found Larry Smith to be the latest owner of the track which is now known as Central Wisconsin Raceway. It’s truly a family affair running the facility as Larry’s wife and kids are very hands on with the operation. Area racing main stay, Steve Parsons ably heads up the promotional team with the track holding events on Wednesday and Friday nights during the summer.
On this night we were to see Modified, Super Stock, Midwest Modified, Street Stock, Pure stock, and Hornet divisions of racing compete. As an added attraction the Badger Racing Association Motorcycle group was also on hand. We did get to see all on the track during the evening but unfortunately rain fell and after most of the heats were completed the show was called due to a wet surface and even wetter hearty fans that showed up despite threatening weather to hopefully see some racing. As a result of the rain, everyone’s pleasure was scheduled to be doubled as the next racing event was to feature two main events in all divisions.
Interesting to note that some of the featured names that raced and won through the years in the region have carried on with tradition and are still involved in the sport. Adams, Lindner, Leu, Loos, and Plank are just some that we recognized that have raced here this year. Of course we remember many a race featuring Dave Adams, Bill Lindner, Lonny Leu, Tom Loos and Leon Plank putting their machines through their paces and most of the time coming out on the winning end of things. Racing truly gets in your blood and it’s good to see generations now keeping those namesakes alive racing here at CWR.
But, as we mentioned earlier rain put a damper on things on this night and the only happy ones on the grounds were the frogs hopping around in the water in the infield. Maybe we should have scheduled an impromptu race for them to finish out the evening. An alternative to that could have been to have a fishing contest. You can literally fish off the deck area that houses the press booth as a lake lies directly behind the grand stands. The lake has some large fish in it as well as it was once a gravel pit and is very deep. Musky? Northern Pike or Bass anyone for a Friday at the races fish fry?
We have witnessed many Memorial racing events through the years and sadly someone has to die to hold them. We attended the 30th running of the Larry Detjens Memorial this past Thursday night held in honor of the Champion Late Model competitor that was killed in a racing accident at Wisconsin International Raceway of Kaukauna, WI., in 1981.. The race is once again being held at State Park Speedway of Wausau, and rightfully so as that is where Larry was from and began his racing career. A great field of Super Late Models were on hand for the show and many adorned the number 25 which is the number Detjens used while racing. Another familiar number, #99 won the race but it was not being driven by Legend Dick Trickle on this night, although he was in attendance. Chris Weinkauf took the machine to the 105 lap feature win as he continues an excellent 2010 year of racing. Tim Sauter, Nate Haseleu, Chris Wimmer, Mark Mackesy, Jesse Haase, Jeff Storm, Burton Brown, Cardell Potter and M.G. Gajewski rounded out the top 10 finishers at the checkered flag. The Haseleu finish was particularly noteworthy as while battling for the lead earlier in the event he was involved in a spin and relegated to the rear of the field. In just 40 laps or so he motored his way back through the pack to claim a hard earned 3rd place finish. The huge crowd on hand loved the action and it couldn’t have been in memory of a nicer guy in racing, Larry Detjens.
It is hoped another Memorial of sorts is created for long time racer Jim Back who passed away here a couple weeks ago. Jim began his racing career back in the early ‘60s and raced and won for over 25 years. Back was always preferential to Ford products but the Vesper, WI., driver actually had his best seasons of racing behind the wheel of GM products in 1973 and ’74. Back raced his Bemco Chassis Chevy Camaros to 33 feature wins over the two years and also set numerous qualifying records during the period. Jimbo, as many folks called him however, was better known for his joy in being able to compete and the fun he had with fellow racers, friends, and fans before during and most of all after the races. He got to be known as the All Night for good reason and the stories abound today of all the adventures and escapades folks had, this writer included, with the Back clan. Jimbo definitely lived life to the fullest and at 76 years of age at the time of his death would be the first to admit he didn’t get cheated. Having raced at so many tracks that he could call home it would be tough to come up with just one site for a Memorial event. Maybe a series of events at a number of venues known as the Back Memorial Cup would be more suitable. Something on that order would allow fans that watched him at their home track through the years a chance to toast one of Wisconsin’s finest one more time, the incomparable Jim Back!
Here and there…Nate Haseleu with his competing at State Park Speedway claims to have raced at all the current operating asphalt tracks in Wisconsin. No small feat in this day and age where travel is much more limited than in days gone by…The fire that gutted the Ron Wimmer residence has been termed a total loss. A chance as a result of the fire just two days prior to the Detjens Memorial, was that the event would not be held. The Wimmer family decided however that it was the best thing they could do at the time and the show did go on. Hopefully the success of it will help in the rebuilding process for the racing Wimmer family…It was nice to see the great turnout of previous Detjens Memorial winners and others at the track signing autographs. Notables in attendance included Dave Marcis, Dick Trickle, Marv Marzofka, Tom and Bryan Reffner, Allen Check, Donnie Woller and Joe Krzykowski. Former race winner Wayne Breitenfeldt did one better making a one night racing comeback to the track and qualifying for the Feature event…How tough are motorcycle racers? Steve Kasten who heads up the Badger Racing Association that was scheduled to compete at Central Wisconsin Raceway this past week was going to do so with a broken wrist! He injured the wrist at an earlier event but thought it was probably just a strain…It didn’t take Jay Sauter long to win his first main event as he captured the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway Saturday night in just his second night of racing since returning to the local racing scene…Quote of the column for this time around comes from Jeff Storm who was attempting to qualify for the feature at the Larry Detjens Memorial. Have you ever raced here before? “I’ve never even seen this place before!”
Photos: Jimbo Back in his Bemco Engineered Camaro 1973. The Dodge Challenger Larry Detjens campaigned during the 1974 racing season.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
By Dale P. Danielski
The tale of the 3/8 mile dirt track located in Unity, WI., actually began with plans to run Highway 10 right through the other longstanding track in the area, Central State Speedway in Colby, WI. With highway construction completed it was time to construct another track in the vicinity and thus the Monster Hall Raceway was born to carry on racing tradition in Central Wisconsin.
Promotion teams and ownership have changed through the years and upon our visit this past Friday night we found Larry Smith to be the latest owner of the track which is now known as Central Wisconsin Raceway. It’s truly a family affair running the facility as Larry’s wife and kids are very hands on with the operation. Area racing main stay, Steve Parsons ably heads up the promotional team with the track holding events on Wednesday and Friday nights during the summer.
On this night we were to see Modified, Super Stock, Midwest Modified, Street Stock, Pure stock, and Hornet divisions of racing compete. As an added attraction the Badger Racing Association Motorcycle group was also on hand. We did get to see all on the track during the evening but unfortunately rain fell and after most of the heats were completed the show was called due to a wet surface and even wetter hearty fans that showed up despite threatening weather to hopefully see some racing. As a result of the rain, everyone’s pleasure was scheduled to be doubled as the next racing event was to feature two main events in all divisions.
Interesting to note that some of the featured names that raced and won through the years in the region have carried on with tradition and are still involved in the sport. Adams, Lindner, Leu, Loos, and Plank are just some that we recognized that have raced here this year. Of course we remember many a race featuring Dave Adams, Bill Lindner, Lonny Leu, Tom Loos and Leon Plank putting their machines through their paces and most of the time coming out on the winning end of things. Racing truly gets in your blood and it’s good to see generations now keeping those namesakes alive racing here at CWR.
But, as we mentioned earlier rain put a damper on things on this night and the only happy ones on the grounds were the frogs hopping around in the water in the infield. Maybe we should have scheduled an impromptu race for them to finish out the evening. An alternative to that could have been to have a fishing contest. You can literally fish off the deck area that houses the press booth as a lake lies directly behind the grand stands. The lake has some large fish in it as well as it was once a gravel pit and is very deep. Musky? Northern Pike or Bass anyone for a Friday at the races fish fry?
We have witnessed many Memorial racing events through the years and sadly someone has to die to hold them. We attended the 30th running of the Larry Detjens Memorial this past Thursday night held in honor of the Champion Late Model competitor that was killed in a racing accident at Wisconsin International Raceway of Kaukauna, WI., in 1981.. The race is once again being held at State Park Speedway of Wausau, and rightfully so as that is where Larry was from and began his racing career. A great field of Super Late Models were on hand for the show and many adorned the number 25 which is the number Detjens used while racing. Another familiar number, #99 won the race but it was not being driven by Legend Dick Trickle on this night, although he was in attendance. Chris Weinkauf took the machine to the 105 lap feature win as he continues an excellent 2010 year of racing. Tim Sauter, Nate Haseleu, Chris Wimmer, Mark Mackesy, Jesse Haase, Jeff Storm, Burton Brown, Cardell Potter and M.G. Gajewski rounded out the top 10 finishers at the checkered flag. The Haseleu finish was particularly noteworthy as while battling for the lead earlier in the event he was involved in a spin and relegated to the rear of the field. In just 40 laps or so he motored his way back through the pack to claim a hard earned 3rd place finish. The huge crowd on hand loved the action and it couldn’t have been in memory of a nicer guy in racing, Larry Detjens.
It is hoped another Memorial of sorts is created for long time racer Jim Back who passed away here a couple weeks ago. Jim began his racing career back in the early ‘60s and raced and won for over 25 years. Back was always preferential to Ford products but the Vesper, WI., driver actually had his best seasons of racing behind the wheel of GM products in 1973 and ’74. Back raced his Bemco Chassis Chevy Camaros to 33 feature wins over the two years and also set numerous qualifying records during the period. Jimbo, as many folks called him however, was better known for his joy in being able to compete and the fun he had with fellow racers, friends, and fans before during and most of all after the races. He got to be known as the All Night for good reason and the stories abound today of all the adventures and escapades folks had, this writer included, with the Back clan. Jimbo definitely lived life to the fullest and at 76 years of age at the time of his death would be the first to admit he didn’t get cheated. Having raced at so many tracks that he could call home it would be tough to come up with just one site for a Memorial event. Maybe a series of events at a number of venues known as the Back Memorial Cup would be more suitable. Something on that order would allow fans that watched him at their home track through the years a chance to toast one of Wisconsin’s finest one more time, the incomparable Jim Back!
Here and there…Nate Haseleu with his competing at State Park Speedway claims to have raced at all the current operating asphalt tracks in Wisconsin. No small feat in this day and age where travel is much more limited than in days gone by…The fire that gutted the Ron Wimmer residence has been termed a total loss. A chance as a result of the fire just two days prior to the Detjens Memorial, was that the event would not be held. The Wimmer family decided however that it was the best thing they could do at the time and the show did go on. Hopefully the success of it will help in the rebuilding process for the racing Wimmer family…It was nice to see the great turnout of previous Detjens Memorial winners and others at the track signing autographs. Notables in attendance included Dave Marcis, Dick Trickle, Marv Marzofka, Tom and Bryan Reffner, Allen Check, Donnie Woller and Joe Krzykowski. Former race winner Wayne Breitenfeldt did one better making a one night racing comeback to the track and qualifying for the Feature event…How tough are motorcycle racers? Steve Kasten who heads up the Badger Racing Association that was scheduled to compete at Central Wisconsin Raceway this past week was going to do so with a broken wrist! He injured the wrist at an earlier event but thought it was probably just a strain…It didn’t take Jay Sauter long to win his first main event as he captured the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway Saturday night in just his second night of racing since returning to the local racing scene…Quote of the column for this time around comes from Jeff Storm who was attempting to qualify for the feature at the Larry Detjens Memorial. Have you ever raced here before? “I’ve never even seen this place before!”
Photos: Jimbo Back in his Bemco Engineered Camaro 1973. The Dodge Challenger Larry Detjens campaigned during the 1974 racing season.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
By Dale P. Danielski
July 22, 2010
The Red, White and Blue State Championship Series has held a great amount of prestige for stock car racers for many years and much to our delight is still going strong today being held at the same venue as always the ½ mile paved Wisconsin International Raceway of Kaukauna. We had a chance to catch the “White” race there this past Thursday but more on that after we give you a bit of a RWB history lesson.
The first RWB Series began in 1972 and boasted of an $18,260 total purse pay-out for the 3 events. Feature event lengths for the three races were scheduled to be 50, 75 and 100 laps respectively. The series aimed to pit North Eastern Wisconsin drivers, many who raced almost exclusively on dirt tracks in the area, against Central Wisconsin’s best along with those competing in the southern part of the state. It did just that as the “Red” race opener saw 52 cars sign in to do battle representing Wisconsin, Illinois and Minnesota. To no one’s surprise, Dick Trickle raced to the 50 lap main event win edging John Rank at the checkered flag. Marv Marzofka, Joe Shear, Tom Reffner, Bob Wawak, Jim Sauter, John Ziegler, Steve Arndt and Dave Watson rounded out the top 10 finishers. 7,832 sun baked fans watched the event which officially ushered in the “Pony Car” revolution as Camaros, Mustangs, and Challengers with shorter wheel bases were becoming the preferred choice of race car over the full sized machines that circled tracks for so many years. It also marked the beginning of the end of the United States Auto Club stock car events at the track as rules, expense and lack of local driver participation forced the hand of promoters into choosing a more weekly racer friendly series of events. The new concept definitely worked and the rest is history as they say. And, by the way, for Trickle on the day it was already his 28th feature event win of the 1972 season. He as is well documented would go on to victory 67 times in main event competition during the year which established a record that remains today.
Steve Holzhausen was on the trailing edge of the heyday of racing in the 1970s and ‘80s as many of us call it, but he carved out his own winning niche in the sport during the next era of short track racing in the Midwest. Having won at the local level, in ARTGO and ASA, one championship Holzhausen has wanted to win, was the Red, White and Blue State Championship Series. After capturing the 75 lap White race here tonight he is in good position to do just that. Holzhausen after setting 2nd fast time on the evening, bided his time in the feature finally taking the top spot from Terry Baldry on the 57th lap and holding off Tim Rothe who made a late race charge for the victory. The win for Holzhausen was no cakewalk however as some heavy hitters were on hand in attempts of taking home the top prize. Ross Kenseth, Bryan Reffner and Eugene Gregorich Jr., to name a few but it was Bangor, Wisconsin native Holzhausen thwarting all attempts in the end. Having been a number of years since we last visited the WIR track for a RWB race it’s good to see there is still a nice mix of competitors from different parts of the state competing. The series does not appear to have lost it’s following either as over 3,000 fans were on hand to view the action. As was the case years ago, they don’t leave either until the last checkered flag is waved as the grandstands were plenty full right up to the end of the Figure 8 race, the last event of the night. There’s good reason for that as action is aplenty during that race with cars scattering all over and some getting a piece of each other at the intersection. An attraction many years ago and still one today. The figure 8 event wasn’t the only attraction though as Limited Late Models, Super Stocks, Sport Trucks and 4 cylinder cars were also all competing on the night’s card. Actually, there was plenty to see and no shortage of excitement in all divisions. All in all a very enjoyable Thursday night at WIR. It’s great to see that racing here in the Fox Valley is alive and well and that the Red White and Blue Championship Series is still a very popular venue.
On our way to Kaukauna, we caught up to Jim Randerson of RanderCar Chassis at his shop which is little more than a stones throw from WIR. Jim is still at it after purchasing the business in 1991 from well known builder of the day Mike Randerson. According to Jim, he got into the business because, “I liked racing ever since I was a kid. I chose racing over joining the Boy Scouts as that just wasn’t it for me if you know what I mean!” As for the state of short track racing today; “The good old days aren’t coming back. But I believe that short track racing is in the beginning stages of making a comeback. NASCAR tempted the young guys with a chance to make it big in racing with them, but it got so expensive and so many didn’t make it, that I think you’re seeing people get involved again at the short track level in a division they can afford to have fun again. It’s a family thing for them again instead of a waiting game to see if they get noticed for a driver development deal and can move on into the top tiers of NASCAR racing.” And according to Randerson he sees drivers getting into the sport at the lower levels like in 4 cylinder divisions. “The thrill of going fast and winning is still there but the new drivers getting into the sport aren’t necessarily looking at it as a step to reach the top. It’s not guys (And girls) spending their last hard earned penny on the race car instead of putting shoes on their kids to get noticed and move up to NASCAR or some other big money division. They’re doing it because they enjoy it. It’s a family outing for them. And, if they get a chance and get better they can perpetuate it into moving into other divisions of racing. The good thing about it is once they get involved they bring a following of co-workers, family and friends out to the race track to watch them which is good for the sport.” Of course myself and Jim Randerson being of age to remember racing in days gone by recall how huge the following was at tracks 5-6 days of the week for the statewide contingent of racers. “Back in those days fans followed the racers from here. They really didn’t have that much interest in NASCAR then since it wasn’t nearly the attraction it is today. The drivers they followed were from the garage down the road, that’s why they went to the races, to watch their local heroes compete. I really think we are getting back to that kind of racing at the short track level.” Certainly there is no shame for a driver to race and reach goals and be content with accomplishments achieved at this level. In Randerson’s words, “Don’t you think when Terry Baldry looks behind after all is said and done and sees 11 championships that he won’t be proud? You bet he will!” Cool stuff from someone who’s nearly as old as me and still gets a thrill at the local short track!
Here and there…Steve Holzhausen leads the RWB point standings going into the Blue race August 19th with 145 and is closely followed by Terry Baldry, 133, and Lowell Bennett with 121…The 1972 “White” race 75 lap feature resulted in another win for Trickle as he bested Jim Sauter, Marv Marzofka, Joe Shear, Tom Reffner, Jim Back, Lyle Nabbefeldt, Rich Davis, Lee Schuler and Rich Somers. The “Patriotic Polack” Denny Sobkowiak of La Crosse, WI., distinguished himself on the day by rolling over his red, white and blue 1971 Plymouth Roadrunner…Joe Shear finally stopped Trickle’s streak as he won the “Blue” Race besting Trickle and the other 41 drivers entered during the day. Top finishers in the 100 lap feature were Shear, Trickle, Larry Detjens, Tom Reffner, Jim Sauter, Jim Back, Marlin Walbeck, Rich Davis, Larry Behrens and John Scott. With his 2nd place finish Trickle became the first ever RWB champion with 2,440 points. Shear was 2nd in the standings with 2,110. Interesting that the point totals represented the dollars won at the events. Whatever your winnings were those were your points for the event. That system to determine a champion was used for many years and was kind of neat as we all then knew how much money the racer was earning…With rain everywhere the show still went on! La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway although with much program juggling got their entire show in this past Saturday which included two 20 lap Features for the NASCAR Late Models. Mike Koenecke picked up his first feature win in over 10 years as he captured the 1st 20 lap main. Division point leader Shawn Pfaff won the nightcap, but even with the victory his 3rd this season, he is just 16 points ahead of defending track champion J. Herbst…What appeared was going to be a dominating win for Steve Carlson ended up being a disappointing loss as Nathan Haseleu passed Carlson with just a handful of laps left to win the 125 lap feature in the ASA Midwest Tour program at Raceway Park of Shakopee, MN., here Sunday. Carlson who led the entire race up to that point hung on for 2nd with Thor Anderson in his best Series finish to date coming in 3rd…In the quote of the column department when asked by an ASA Tour official when he was going to quit Steve Carlson replied, “I’ll quit when I go slow. Right now I’m still fast!”…
Photos. Steve Holzhausen in one of two Pete Kempf owned cars he’s racing in 2010. Dick Trickle in 1972 with his 427 cubic inch engine 1970 Ford Mustang. Nate Haseleu takes the lead and eventual win in the ASA Midwest Tour race at Raceway Park, Shakopee, MN. Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia 967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
Auto Racing facts Observances and Opinions
July 22, 2010
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
July 10
By Dale P. Danielski
Winning breeds contempt. With contempt established, the accusations of cheating are soon to follow.
Steve Carlson has won a lot of races through the years. He has more checkered flags than many drivers have total laps run! With that kind of experience he is the man to beat wherever he races. With that much experience he is just about the last person that needs to manipulate the rules to out run his competition. But that’s also not to say that where rules are written if it doesn’t say you can’t he might push the envelope to determine just what it is you can! Again, if you win a lot, and Carlson already this year has done just that, your competition thinks there is a reason. There is something on your car that is allowing you to out run me as I am just as good a driver with just as good of equipment as you. That statement could come from any number of racers out there. The situation reached a boiling point here recently and came to an ugly head with Carlson and his son being disqualified at La Crosse Fairgrounds after the feature race (Mike Carlson won it, Steve was 4th) for illegal parts on their race cars.
In my experience running a series and assisting in the promotion of a number of race tracks, you want to make your rules as black and white as possible. To do this you should also have a very thin rulebook. Keep it basic keep it simple. A thick rulebook creates gray area as to which you are asking for trouble in the interpretation of said rules. I don’t have any idea how the rules read for the supposed illegal shocks and chain drops the Carlson’s had on their race cars. The track claims the pieces provide a competitive advantage while the race teams say they are in place for better component durability and longevity along with for safety reasons. Unfortunately in this case they are probably both right! With our rules we always had a final determining factor that basically read, if you do or have something on your race car that isn’t in keeping with the spirit of competition at said event, we as officials have the right to disqualify or at least reprimand said offender. Kind of broad yes, but you realize in a hurry that you will never keep up with racers in their never ending attempts to find an edge. This is by far your best defense. We also found that the approach to use is to give a warning with a time limit, whether it’s a conduct thing or component for the problem to be fixed and if it isn’t in the allotted time said team, or individual will face the DQ consequences. Having been on both sides of the fence here I can see each party’s point of view. And again I think they are both right! Sadly the track has to stand its ground and derive their decision from it. In the racer’s case if given fair warning of said offense whether for competitive advantage, safety or whatever reasons you must abide by it and do as your told or face negative consequences. Contrary to popular belief tracks, series and sanctioning bodies are not out to “Get” the racer. We in our promoting days certainly didn’t want to lose any cars because of course they all brought fans and made for a better more entertaining show. Racers usually compete in certain series or at specific tracks for a reason and don’t want to walk away from those obligations either. It’s bad for both sides when these things happen. I can tell you for certain that La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway is not trying to send the Carlson’s down the road to race elsewhere. I can also with great certainty tell you that Steve Carlson is not a cheater. He may test the limits and interpretation of the rule book, but an outright cheater he does not need to be as he is a good enough driver to beat you anyway. He actually proved that at the next event at Lax where he won the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature after the above mentioned parts had been removed. Son Mike did the same two weeks later winning that nights 25 lap main. And to prove favorites aren’t being played, Jeff Baker who placed 3rd in the main behind Steve Carlson was DQ’d for a ride height infraction.
Along the lines of our competitive advantage topic I can remember Marlin Walbeck who was the man to beat before Dick Trickle arrived on the scene telling me they’d put things on the race car that had nothing to do with gaining speed. They’d be there to divert your attention from the things that really made the car fast. This could even include placing product stickers on the car which Walbeck did with STP. Sure enough, others the following race had the sticker on and were probably investing in a product that did nothing in terms of gaining a competitive advantage. According to Walbeck he and his crew laughed a long time over that one…Speed secret or cheating. Tom Reffner during one of his winningest seasons in 1976 was to have his engine torn down and looked at after winning at the Capital Speedway of Oregon, WI. Reffner refused citing his engine builder instructed him not to allow that to happen area. He forfeited points and prize money for the night but before leaving indicated, “If you think we have good power with this engine just wait until later in the season”. He did end up winning 37 feature races that year so who knows…Allen Check in his earlier days of Late Model racing was running particularly well at State Park Speedway. Upon pumping his engine to check compression the gauge usedwas practically pegged. Needless to say the engine was not legal and Check did come back out, and quite successfully I might add to race again at State Park with one that met specs…And of course again here on the Lax local level others have been the recipients of no points no money nights due to rules infractions. Just ask Todd Korish and Mark Lamoreaux about that. Ah yes, race drivers pushing the envelope for all they can get. The gray area, legal or not? Sometimes you pass and sometimes what you get is a penalty or worse yet, disqualification!
Here and there…Dirt track Street Stock driver Danny Hansen just keeps on winning. He claimed the 25 lap Street Stock Nationals feature win here Thursday night at Mississippi Thunder Speedway. After emerging from his car in victory lane he immediately declared that everyone in the stands, those of legal age of course, could have a beer on him! He was a man of his word and a bunch of folks lined up and turned in their ticket stubs to get a free beverage from the beer stand at the track. Hopefully the cost allowed him to take home at least some of the $1,500 he pocketed for the big win! One individual wasn’t at all pleased with Hansen’s win and certainly wasn’t going to take him up on his offer. With Hansen out of his car in victory lane he yelled, “Check his shocks, they’re illegal, he’s cheating! Oh, boy, winning breeds…Photos. Steve Carlson #66 and Mike Carlson #50 have won the last two NASCAR Late Model Features held at La Crosse Fairgrounds after having both been disqualified for a rules infraction at the previous event held. #91 Marv Marzofka who recently turned 70 years old campaigned this Ford in 1968. Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
July 10
By Dale P. Danielski
Winning breeds contempt. With contempt established, the accusations of cheating are soon to follow.
Steve Carlson has won a lot of races through the years. He has more checkered flags than many drivers have total laps run! With that kind of experience he is the man to beat wherever he races. With that much experience he is just about the last person that needs to manipulate the rules to out run his competition. But that’s also not to say that where rules are written if it doesn’t say you can’t he might push the envelope to determine just what it is you can! Again, if you win a lot, and Carlson already this year has done just that, your competition thinks there is a reason. There is something on your car that is allowing you to out run me as I am just as good a driver with just as good of equipment as you. That statement could come from any number of racers out there. The situation reached a boiling point here recently and came to an ugly head with Carlson and his son being disqualified at La Crosse Fairgrounds after the feature race (Mike Carlson won it, Steve was 4th) for illegal parts on their race cars.
In my experience running a series and assisting in the promotion of a number of race tracks, you want to make your rules as black and white as possible. To do this you should also have a very thin rulebook. Keep it basic keep it simple. A thick rulebook creates gray area as to which you are asking for trouble in the interpretation of said rules. I don’t have any idea how the rules read for the supposed illegal shocks and chain drops the Carlson’s had on their race cars. The track claims the pieces provide a competitive advantage while the race teams say they are in place for better component durability and longevity along with for safety reasons. Unfortunately in this case they are probably both right! With our rules we always had a final determining factor that basically read, if you do or have something on your race car that isn’t in keeping with the spirit of competition at said event, we as officials have the right to disqualify or at least reprimand said offender. Kind of broad yes, but you realize in a hurry that you will never keep up with racers in their never ending attempts to find an edge. This is by far your best defense. We also found that the approach to use is to give a warning with a time limit, whether it’s a conduct thing or component for the problem to be fixed and if it isn’t in the allotted time said team, or individual will face the DQ consequences. Having been on both sides of the fence here I can see each party’s point of view. And again I think they are both right! Sadly the track has to stand its ground and derive their decision from it. In the racer’s case if given fair warning of said offense whether for competitive advantage, safety or whatever reasons you must abide by it and do as your told or face negative consequences. Contrary to popular belief tracks, series and sanctioning bodies are not out to “Get” the racer. We in our promoting days certainly didn’t want to lose any cars because of course they all brought fans and made for a better more entertaining show. Racers usually compete in certain series or at specific tracks for a reason and don’t want to walk away from those obligations either. It’s bad for both sides when these things happen. I can tell you for certain that La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway is not trying to send the Carlson’s down the road to race elsewhere. I can also with great certainty tell you that Steve Carlson is not a cheater. He may test the limits and interpretation of the rule book, but an outright cheater he does not need to be as he is a good enough driver to beat you anyway. He actually proved that at the next event at Lax where he won the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model Feature after the above mentioned parts had been removed. Son Mike did the same two weeks later winning that nights 25 lap main. And to prove favorites aren’t being played, Jeff Baker who placed 3rd in the main behind Steve Carlson was DQ’d for a ride height infraction.
Along the lines of our competitive advantage topic I can remember Marlin Walbeck who was the man to beat before Dick Trickle arrived on the scene telling me they’d put things on the race car that had nothing to do with gaining speed. They’d be there to divert your attention from the things that really made the car fast. This could even include placing product stickers on the car which Walbeck did with STP. Sure enough, others the following race had the sticker on and were probably investing in a product that did nothing in terms of gaining a competitive advantage. According to Walbeck he and his crew laughed a long time over that one…Speed secret or cheating. Tom Reffner during one of his winningest seasons in 1976 was to have his engine torn down and looked at after winning at the Capital Speedway of Oregon, WI. Reffner refused citing his engine builder instructed him not to allow that to happen area. He forfeited points and prize money for the night but before leaving indicated, “If you think we have good power with this engine just wait until later in the season”. He did end up winning 37 feature races that year so who knows…Allen Check in his earlier days of Late Model racing was running particularly well at State Park Speedway. Upon pumping his engine to check compression the gauge usedwas practically pegged. Needless to say the engine was not legal and Check did come back out, and quite successfully I might add to race again at State Park with one that met specs…And of course again here on the Lax local level others have been the recipients of no points no money nights due to rules infractions. Just ask Todd Korish and Mark Lamoreaux about that. Ah yes, race drivers pushing the envelope for all they can get. The gray area, legal or not? Sometimes you pass and sometimes what you get is a penalty or worse yet, disqualification!
Here and there…Dirt track Street Stock driver Danny Hansen just keeps on winning. He claimed the 25 lap Street Stock Nationals feature win here Thursday night at Mississippi Thunder Speedway. After emerging from his car in victory lane he immediately declared that everyone in the stands, those of legal age of course, could have a beer on him! He was a man of his word and a bunch of folks lined up and turned in their ticket stubs to get a free beverage from the beer stand at the track. Hopefully the cost allowed him to take home at least some of the $1,500 he pocketed for the big win! One individual wasn’t at all pleased with Hansen’s win and certainly wasn’t going to take him up on his offer. With Hansen out of his car in victory lane he yelled, “Check his shocks, they’re illegal, he’s cheating! Oh, boy, winning breeds…Photos. Steve Carlson #66 and Mike Carlson #50 have won the last two NASCAR Late Model Features held at La Crosse Fairgrounds after having both been disqualified for a rules infraction at the previous event held. #91 Marv Marzofka who recently turned 70 years old campaigned this Ford in 1968. Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
June 24
By Dale P. Danielski
The last time I paid a visit to State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI., was when City native Scott Wimmer was getting his NASCAR career into high gear. Interesting that the Wimmer name should come up again in our most recent visit to the track here June 10th.
The father and son team of Ron Wimmer and Scott wanted to see the tradition continue at the history rich State Park track so they purchased it in late 2009. The intent was to spruce the facility up a bit and continue with the tradition of Thursday night racing. They’ve done much more than just a bit of sprucing as massive facility changes are taking place with more to come. The improvements are much needed and very welcome if the track which was originally built in the 1950s is to continue operating.
A lot hasn’t changed at the track however as a number of familiar racing names are still participating at the ¼ mile paved oval. One of them is Lepak as Larry raced at the track for many years. His son Jeremy has carried the torch and tonight was on fire leading every lap of the headlining 100 lap feature in race one of the three track mini series Central Wisconsin Challenge Series. The 22 car field was no match for Lepak as he won by a comfortable margin over Chris Wimmer, Chris Weinkauf, Burton Brown, Keith Bohmsach and MG Gajewski. Another familiar racing name is that of Haase. I witnessed Rick Haase on many occasions racing in North Central Wisconsin in the 1960s and ‘70s and winning his share on both dirt and asphalt tracks. His son Jesse is back racing and with the same car number Dad used, #02. Haase proved he is up to the task as he drove to a hard earned 9th place finish in the feature tonight. Kirby Kurth who has been a race and track champion here was also on hand after a brief hiatus from the sport. Although the night was a struggle for the big Kirb he did get some competitive laps under his belt. Mark Mackesy was on hand for the show and set a blistering pace in time trials with a 13:717 lap around the ¼ mile. Bob Mackesy, his father, raced many years at Wisconsin tracks racing the familiar #12. Mark’s chosen number for racing? The #12 of course.
All in all, things are really looking up for State Park Speedway. It’s great to see a Wisconsin track that entertained us for many years through the likes of Dave Marcis, Larry Detjens, Dick Trickle, Marv Marzofka, Bobby Allison, Jim Back, Tom Reffner, Dick Schultz, Tom Nesbitt, Jim Hornung, Janet Guthrie, Mike Miller, John Bovee, Bill Wirtz, Dave Field, Butch Miller, Dale Walworth, Don James, Les Stankowski, Denny and Darrell Paasch, Tony Diano, Doug Herbst, Orv Buelow, Marlin Walbeck, Rick Carelli, Beetle Bailey, Jim Bohmsach, Kevin Cywinski, Joe Kryzkowski, Ivan Fraaza, Al Schulz, Bob Jusola, Neil Callahan, John Zeidler, Roy Bohm, Jeff Gutnecht, Ted Musgrave, Paul Christianson, and so many, many more, going strong with a bright future ahead of it.
Here and there…Colin Reffner who of course is following in the footsteps of familiar and successful racers with that name is known as the Blue Knight this year as he races the Kevin Lang Super Late Model at select special events. Grandpa Tom was the Blue Knight but Colin actually has colors on his car reminiscent of all three Knights back in their Super America sponsored days, Dick Trickle the White Knight, Tom Reffner, Blue Knight and John Boegemann the Black Knight. Reffner even has colors of red in the interior of his car which would have been the colors of the next Knight Mike Miller who was in line for the position before SA backed out of sponsoring the teams. Young Reffner raced to a12th place finish in tonight’s main event…The pond off the east end of the track is still there although now with a concrete retaining wall in place you’d be hard pressed to end up in it like this scribe did back in his racing days. I went straight in it after sliding off the top of the track only to be outdone by Bob Wisniewski a while later who ended upside down in it. We both escaped relatively unscathed although it is said that fish were never able to spawn in the pond as a result of our escapades…No one will miss the metal trough the guys used for many years to relieve themselves in with actual restrooms now installed at the track. The women attending events won’t be afraid to have a beverage or two now either with the new amenities in place…Holy smokes the Sheriff won a feature race! Bill Niles after 15 years of trying was declared the winner of the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model feature Saturday June 12th at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway when Mike Carlson who crossed the line first was DQ’d for a rules infraction. The normally very affable Niles was practically speechless upon learning the result partly because he felt bad for Carlson and also because he indeed, truly was now a feature event winner!...Shawn Pfaff who is off to a great start at Lax set fast qualifying time for the 4th time this season. According to Pfaff who has a legitimate shot at that track championship, “I haven’t set fast time four times in a season in 15 years!”…Ronnie Rihm parlayed his experience racing Late Models and Modifieds at dirt tracks in Wisconsin by winning the 25 Lap Super Late Model Feature here Saturday night at Marshfield Motor Speedway. According to Rihm, “When you race on dirt you don’t have a fear of a loose car when you run on pavement.” The experience here definitely paid off as Rihm raced to his first paved main event win. Photos. Second Generation driver Mark Mackesy races with the #12 just like his father did. Wausau, WI., area drivers well represented at State Park Speedway circa 1984. Black car #66 Wayne Lodholz, #32 Lyle Nowak, #12 Bob Mackesy, and #27 Kevin Stepan. Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
June 24
By Dale P. Danielski
The last time I paid a visit to State Park Speedway of Wausau, WI., was when City native Scott Wimmer was getting his NASCAR career into high gear. Interesting that the Wimmer name should come up again in our most recent visit to the track here June 10th.
The father and son team of Ron Wimmer and Scott wanted to see the tradition continue at the history rich State Park track so they purchased it in late 2009. The intent was to spruce the facility up a bit and continue with the tradition of Thursday night racing. They’ve done much more than just a bit of sprucing as massive facility changes are taking place with more to come. The improvements are much needed and very welcome if the track which was originally built in the 1950s is to continue operating.
A lot hasn’t changed at the track however as a number of familiar racing names are still participating at the ¼ mile paved oval. One of them is Lepak as Larry raced at the track for many years. His son Jeremy has carried the torch and tonight was on fire leading every lap of the headlining 100 lap feature in race one of the three track mini series Central Wisconsin Challenge Series. The 22 car field was no match for Lepak as he won by a comfortable margin over Chris Wimmer, Chris Weinkauf, Burton Brown, Keith Bohmsach and MG Gajewski. Another familiar racing name is that of Haase. I witnessed Rick Haase on many occasions racing in North Central Wisconsin in the 1960s and ‘70s and winning his share on both dirt and asphalt tracks. His son Jesse is back racing and with the same car number Dad used, #02. Haase proved he is up to the task as he drove to a hard earned 9th place finish in the feature tonight. Kirby Kurth who has been a race and track champion here was also on hand after a brief hiatus from the sport. Although the night was a struggle for the big Kirb he did get some competitive laps under his belt. Mark Mackesy was on hand for the show and set a blistering pace in time trials with a 13:717 lap around the ¼ mile. Bob Mackesy, his father, raced many years at Wisconsin tracks racing the familiar #12. Mark’s chosen number for racing? The #12 of course.
All in all, things are really looking up for State Park Speedway. It’s great to see a Wisconsin track that entertained us for many years through the likes of Dave Marcis, Larry Detjens, Dick Trickle, Marv Marzofka, Bobby Allison, Jim Back, Tom Reffner, Dick Schultz, Tom Nesbitt, Jim Hornung, Janet Guthrie, Mike Miller, John Bovee, Bill Wirtz, Dave Field, Butch Miller, Dale Walworth, Don James, Les Stankowski, Denny and Darrell Paasch, Tony Diano, Doug Herbst, Orv Buelow, Marlin Walbeck, Rick Carelli, Beetle Bailey, Jim Bohmsach, Kevin Cywinski, Joe Kryzkowski, Ivan Fraaza, Al Schulz, Bob Jusola, Neil Callahan, John Zeidler, Roy Bohm, Jeff Gutnecht, Ted Musgrave, Paul Christianson, and so many, many more, going strong with a bright future ahead of it.
Here and there…Colin Reffner who of course is following in the footsteps of familiar and successful racers with that name is known as the Blue Knight this year as he races the Kevin Lang Super Late Model at select special events. Grandpa Tom was the Blue Knight but Colin actually has colors on his car reminiscent of all three Knights back in their Super America sponsored days, Dick Trickle the White Knight, Tom Reffner, Blue Knight and John Boegemann the Black Knight. Reffner even has colors of red in the interior of his car which would have been the colors of the next Knight Mike Miller who was in line for the position before SA backed out of sponsoring the teams. Young Reffner raced to a12th place finish in tonight’s main event…The pond off the east end of the track is still there although now with a concrete retaining wall in place you’d be hard pressed to end up in it like this scribe did back in his racing days. I went straight in it after sliding off the top of the track only to be outdone by Bob Wisniewski a while later who ended upside down in it. We both escaped relatively unscathed although it is said that fish were never able to spawn in the pond as a result of our escapades…No one will miss the metal trough the guys used for many years to relieve themselves in with actual restrooms now installed at the track. The women attending events won’t be afraid to have a beverage or two now either with the new amenities in place…Holy smokes the Sheriff won a feature race! Bill Niles after 15 years of trying was declared the winner of the 25 lap NASCAR Late Model feature Saturday June 12th at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway when Mike Carlson who crossed the line first was DQ’d for a rules infraction. The normally very affable Niles was practically speechless upon learning the result partly because he felt bad for Carlson and also because he indeed, truly was now a feature event winner!...Shawn Pfaff who is off to a great start at Lax set fast qualifying time for the 4th time this season. According to Pfaff who has a legitimate shot at that track championship, “I haven’t set fast time four times in a season in 15 years!”…Ronnie Rihm parlayed his experience racing Late Models and Modifieds at dirt tracks in Wisconsin by winning the 25 Lap Super Late Model Feature here Saturday night at Marshfield Motor Speedway. According to Rihm, “When you race on dirt you don’t have a fear of a loose car when you run on pavement.” The experience here definitely paid off as Rihm raced to his first paved main event win. Photos. Second Generation driver Mark Mackesy races with the #12 just like his father did. Wausau, WI., area drivers well represented at State Park Speedway circa 1984. Black car #66 Wayne Lodholz, #32 Lyle Nowak, #12 Bob Mackesy, and #27 Kevin Stepan. Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
AUTO RACING FACTS, OBSERVANCES and OPINIONS
June 10
By Dale P. Danielski
You can’t help but appreciate the sheer speed of a Sprint Car. It’s not too often the case but we had the chance to experience the sensation here at Huset’s Speedway of Brandon, South Dakota Memorial Day weekend.
It is exciting to watch these high powered racing machines in an actual race, but I’ve always thought the most exciting track time for these cars is during time trials. Yes, I said that and while you’re picking yourself up off the floor from the chair you just fell out of lend me your ear for a second. Huset’s Speedway is a 3/8 mile clay oval track. With time trials first on the program, the track is at its fastest best. Tacky enough to pull your shoes off your feet if you walk on it and wide enough with multi-grooves available to use the entire racing surface. The excitement comes in when the sprint car guys get on the throttle and don’t lift their foot off the floor all the way around! The result here is fast laps under 11 seconds! For me, this is the best part of the show. Generally this is the case wherever you go to a dirt track that is 3/8 of a mile or larger with the Sprints running, and if you aren’t impressed with that you aren’t breathing!
Case in point, Scott Winters set the fast time of the evening at 10.943. That’s actually a couple tenths slower than the track record if you can use the word slow in this context. Fastest on the night doesn’t guarantee a win however as Jody Rosenbloom sped to his first career feature win with Winters settling for 4th place just behind Greg Bakker and Lynton Jeffrey. The name Wolfgang appears frequently in results here at Huset’s but its Robby not legendary driver Doug. It’s racing in the blood however as Robby is Doug’s son. Young Wolfgang drove a steady race tonight and finished 6th in the main.
It was timely and appropriate for Joe Riedel to get his first main event win in the Championship Sprint Division at the track on Memorial Day weekend, as he has served two tours of duty overseas as a member of the National Guard. Included as part of the Huset’s weekly race card are the B Modifieds. Not so long ago brothers Steve and Greg Rubin stated to me they’d never have modifieds competing at their race track. “This is a Sprint car track; fans come to see the Sprints not open wheel modifieds”. Never as they say is a very long time! Huset’s now has three divisions of Sprint cars competing. Northern Outlaw Sprint Association, Championship Sprints and USRA Sprints. Not sure what all the differences are from each as they look nearly identical, but I’m sure economics have come into play and many can’t afford the wide open type Outlaw Sprint car. 42 cars in the three divisions were on hand tonight.
Here and there…Jon Eilen from nearby Hampton, MN was getting in some track time for the upcoming ASA Midwest Tour race at Elko Speedway by competing in a local show on a recent Saturday night. After a competitive night of racing the team left their race car tractor/trailer at their shop and headed off for some late night supper. 20 minutes later they received a call stating the tractor was on fire! Sadly, the unit was a total loss but the fire didn’t reach the trailer or worse yet the shop. According to Eilen, “We were planning on doing some updating to the hauler, now I guess we’ll have to…And the great leveler, rain almost leveled this guy this past weekend. We headed up to Elko Speedway for the ASA Midwest Tour race on Saturday June 5th hoping to see some great action as the Tour was holding their second event of 2010. Rained all day and was postponed so we decided to make a mad dash to La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway and hopefully catch the show there. Rained out that show too! It rained so long that Mother Goose was walking her Goslings down the road next to the pit area at Elko. Obviously race engines weren’t running so no threat there! Travis Sauter was prepared for waiting out the rain Saturday night. “We were planning on the victory celebration so we got a room for tonight” The rain didn’t quit soon enough though and of course no one was celebrating victory Saturday. Sunday dawned with clear skies and although clouds rolled in and it did rain again it didn’t deter the ASA Tour group from getting Saturday’s rained out show in. For Ross Kenseth the wait was well worth it as he scored his first ever ASA Midwest Tour win in the 100 lap feature. Kenseth was quick all day but had to hold off Chris Wimmer in the late stages of the race for the win. Is it history in the making? Kenseth has succeeded thus far at each level of racing he’s competed in. Along the way he’s raced and won at some tough old tracks that have taken veteran drivers years to conquer. Although no one at this point is talking about it much how long before he gets a shot at some big time racing events. Can you say ARCA? NASCAR? The kid is good and you know he will get his shot at it…Speaking of ARCA while wandering around waiting out the rain we drove by the Country Joe race shop near Lakeville, MN. Can anyone tell me the significance of the race car hanging in the tree? Bumped into racers Adam Hensel and Doug Hillson at Elko. The two were searching for some dirt racing to watch but were washed out and headed to the paved track. Hensel is currently racing throughout the region in a dirt Late Model while Hillson was still celebrating his first ever USMTS Modified feature victory at the Chateau Raceway of Lansing, MN. Hillson raced on pavement back in the day and was also a regular on the USMS Tour run by yours truly. Hensel has raced pavement as well and is also a former WISSOTA National Champion. Much more to come…next time around. Photo. #29 Doug Wolfgang vintage year 1984 in the Weikert’s Livestock machine at I-70 Speedway. Photo. Ross Kenseth and Chris Wimmer do battle at Elko Speedway.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
June 10
By Dale P. Danielski
You can’t help but appreciate the sheer speed of a Sprint Car. It’s not too often the case but we had the chance to experience the sensation here at Huset’s Speedway of Brandon, South Dakota Memorial Day weekend.
It is exciting to watch these high powered racing machines in an actual race, but I’ve always thought the most exciting track time for these cars is during time trials. Yes, I said that and while you’re picking yourself up off the floor from the chair you just fell out of lend me your ear for a second. Huset’s Speedway is a 3/8 mile clay oval track. With time trials first on the program, the track is at its fastest best. Tacky enough to pull your shoes off your feet if you walk on it and wide enough with multi-grooves available to use the entire racing surface. The excitement comes in when the sprint car guys get on the throttle and don’t lift their foot off the floor all the way around! The result here is fast laps under 11 seconds! For me, this is the best part of the show. Generally this is the case wherever you go to a dirt track that is 3/8 of a mile or larger with the Sprints running, and if you aren’t impressed with that you aren’t breathing!
Case in point, Scott Winters set the fast time of the evening at 10.943. That’s actually a couple tenths slower than the track record if you can use the word slow in this context. Fastest on the night doesn’t guarantee a win however as Jody Rosenbloom sped to his first career feature win with Winters settling for 4th place just behind Greg Bakker and Lynton Jeffrey. The name Wolfgang appears frequently in results here at Huset’s but its Robby not legendary driver Doug. It’s racing in the blood however as Robby is Doug’s son. Young Wolfgang drove a steady race tonight and finished 6th in the main.
It was timely and appropriate for Joe Riedel to get his first main event win in the Championship Sprint Division at the track on Memorial Day weekend, as he has served two tours of duty overseas as a member of the National Guard. Included as part of the Huset’s weekly race card are the B Modifieds. Not so long ago brothers Steve and Greg Rubin stated to me they’d never have modifieds competing at their race track. “This is a Sprint car track; fans come to see the Sprints not open wheel modifieds”. Never as they say is a very long time! Huset’s now has three divisions of Sprint cars competing. Northern Outlaw Sprint Association, Championship Sprints and USRA Sprints. Not sure what all the differences are from each as they look nearly identical, but I’m sure economics have come into play and many can’t afford the wide open type Outlaw Sprint car. 42 cars in the three divisions were on hand tonight.
Here and there…Jon Eilen from nearby Hampton, MN was getting in some track time for the upcoming ASA Midwest Tour race at Elko Speedway by competing in a local show on a recent Saturday night. After a competitive night of racing the team left their race car tractor/trailer at their shop and headed off for some late night supper. 20 minutes later they received a call stating the tractor was on fire! Sadly, the unit was a total loss but the fire didn’t reach the trailer or worse yet the shop. According to Eilen, “We were planning on doing some updating to the hauler, now I guess we’ll have to…And the great leveler, rain almost leveled this guy this past weekend. We headed up to Elko Speedway for the ASA Midwest Tour race on Saturday June 5th hoping to see some great action as the Tour was holding their second event of 2010. Rained all day and was postponed so we decided to make a mad dash to La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway and hopefully catch the show there. Rained out that show too! It rained so long that Mother Goose was walking her Goslings down the road next to the pit area at Elko. Obviously race engines weren’t running so no threat there! Travis Sauter was prepared for waiting out the rain Saturday night. “We were planning on the victory celebration so we got a room for tonight” The rain didn’t quit soon enough though and of course no one was celebrating victory Saturday. Sunday dawned with clear skies and although clouds rolled in and it did rain again it didn’t deter the ASA Tour group from getting Saturday’s rained out show in. For Ross Kenseth the wait was well worth it as he scored his first ever ASA Midwest Tour win in the 100 lap feature. Kenseth was quick all day but had to hold off Chris Wimmer in the late stages of the race for the win. Is it history in the making? Kenseth has succeeded thus far at each level of racing he’s competed in. Along the way he’s raced and won at some tough old tracks that have taken veteran drivers years to conquer. Although no one at this point is talking about it much how long before he gets a shot at some big time racing events. Can you say ARCA? NASCAR? The kid is good and you know he will get his shot at it…Speaking of ARCA while wandering around waiting out the rain we drove by the Country Joe race shop near Lakeville, MN. Can anyone tell me the significance of the race car hanging in the tree? Bumped into racers Adam Hensel and Doug Hillson at Elko. The two were searching for some dirt racing to watch but were washed out and headed to the paved track. Hensel is currently racing throughout the region in a dirt Late Model while Hillson was still celebrating his first ever USMTS Modified feature victory at the Chateau Raceway of Lansing, MN. Hillson raced on pavement back in the day and was also a regular on the USMS Tour run by yours truly. Hensel has raced pavement as well and is also a former WISSOTA National Champion. Much more to come…next time around. Photo. #29 Doug Wolfgang vintage year 1984 in the Weikert’s Livestock machine at I-70 Speedway. Photo. Ross Kenseth and Chris Wimmer do battle at Elko Speedway.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
May 27, 2010
By Dale P. Danielski
It was off to the Marshfield Motor Speedway just a few miles west of friendly downtown Marshfield, WI., for their 2010 season opening race event here May 15th. The track was playing host for the new Yellow River Race Series this being event one of three. New is also the word in terms of ownership and promotion at the ½ mile paved oval as Dan de Boer owns the facility while Wayne Brevik is serving as promoter. Also new are a number of faces helping to run the track as the staff tries to run a bit better organized and efficient race program. Things are definitely headed in the right direction in that regard as the show, although experiencing some issues early on went quite smooth and ended at a reasonable hour.
The 50 lap headlining event for Super late Models was competitive and when all was said and done it was Mark Kraus in victory lane. Taking the lead halfway through Kraus was never really threatened thereafter. Kraus who hails from nearby Stratford when asked when he’d last won couldn’t answer for certain. “I can’t remember the last time I won a feature, here or anywhere, it’s definitely been a while!” With Kraus safely in front the best battle was for 2nd position between the Weinkauf brothers Jason and Chris. Jason who led the event early was driving his own car while brother Chris was behind the wheel of Ed Holms new creation. Chris came up to challenge but the best he could do was get alongside his brother who held him off for 2nd place money. Interesting to note that the brothers raced each other very cleanly throughout the battle. Some kinship battles result in wrecked cars and damaged relationships but these two get along very well on and off the race track. I once asked them when they were standing next to each other which one was a better driver. They responded simultaneously “I am!”
For those wondering where the Yellow River moniker came from, yes, obviously there is a river by that name that runs quite close to the track. Also a fact is the original name for the speedway was Yellow River Speedway named by track constructor, owner and operator Jim Langreck. The track was carved out at an old gravel pit site in the 1970s and was a dirt surface initially before being paved in 1995. It probably didn’t cost as much as some new facilities as a natural amphitheatre effect was created by the depth of the pit. The track sat down below in it with sand piled all around. Consequently there wasn’t the need to haul in and move a lot of dirt for grandstand seating, it was already there! Anyway, that’s your history lesson for this time around.
Here and there…Most pavement Tours and tracks in the region now have a common tire rule although the compound is slightly different from last season. Kraus was on the tire for the ASA Midwest Tour opener a few weeks back which very well could have given him a slight edge tonight over most of the rest of the field which were on them for the first time…27 Super late Models were on hand for the opening event at Marshfield. Steve Holzhausen out timed all of them and was the only driver getting below the 18 second bracket…Many drivers are still voicing concerns over the economy as sponsor dollars are in short supply this race season. Almost all admit to racing with fewer backers this year over previous seasons…A good crowd was on hand at Marshfield as near perfect weather greeted fans…Coming up June 5th is race two on the ASA Midwest Tour at Elko Speedway of Elko, MN. The race will be televised on FSN Wisconsin and FSN North and can be seen June 19th. Caught some of the telecast of the ASA Tour opener at Madison International Speedway May 2nd. Good to see Midwest auto racing getting some TV time. It’s been long over due…Who says you can’t get anything for a Buck anymore! La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway this past Saturday had all concession items priced at just one dollar. A great idea to get more people out to the race track and entice them to have supper with the whole family while there. A crowd in the 3,000 range was on hand for the event…Steve Carlson continues to enjoy the new double file restarts in the NASCAR Late Model Division feature races at Lax. He went on to win his 3rd main of the year capitalizing on it…Well over 100 racing vehicles in four divisions were on hand at Lax Fairgrounds to do battle this past Saturday including 41 Window World Hornets.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com
It was off to the Marshfield Motor Speedway just a few miles west of friendly downtown Marshfield, WI., for their 2010 season opening race event here May 15th. The track was playing host for the new Yellow River Race Series this being event one of three. New is also the word in terms of ownership and promotion at the ½ mile paved oval as Dan de Boer owns the facility while Wayne Brevik is serving as promoter. Also new are a number of faces helping to run the track as the staff tries to run a bit better organized and efficient race program. Things are definitely headed in the right direction in that regard as the show, although experiencing some issues early on went quite smooth and ended at a reasonable hour.
The 50 lap headlining event for Super late Models was competitive and when all was said and done it was Mark Kraus in victory lane. Taking the lead halfway through Kraus was never really threatened thereafter. Kraus who hails from nearby Stratford when asked when he’d last won couldn’t answer for certain. “I can’t remember the last time I won a feature, here or anywhere, it’s definitely been a while!” With Kraus safely in front the best battle was for 2nd position between the Weinkauf brothers Jason and Chris. Jason who led the event early was driving his own car while brother Chris was behind the wheel of Ed Holms new creation. Chris came up to challenge but the best he could do was get alongside his brother who held him off for 2nd place money. Interesting to note that the brothers raced each other very cleanly throughout the battle. Some kinship battles result in wrecked cars and damaged relationships but these two get along very well on and off the race track. I once asked them when they were standing next to each other which one was a better driver. They responded simultaneously “I am!”
For those wondering where the Yellow River moniker came from, yes, obviously there is a river by that name that runs quite close to the track. Also a fact is the original name for the speedway was Yellow River Speedway named by track constructor, owner and operator Jim Langreck. The track was carved out at an old gravel pit site in the 1970s and was a dirt surface initially before being paved in 1995. It probably didn’t cost as much as some new facilities as a natural amphitheatre effect was created by the depth of the pit. The track sat down below in it with sand piled all around. Consequently there wasn’t the need to haul in and move a lot of dirt for grandstand seating, it was already there! Anyway, that’s your history lesson for this time around.
Here and there…Most pavement Tours and tracks in the region now have a common tire rule although the compound is slightly different from last season. Kraus was on the tire for the ASA Midwest Tour opener a few weeks back which very well could have given him a slight edge tonight over most of the rest of the field which were on them for the first time…27 Super late Models were on hand for the opening event at Marshfield. Steve Holzhausen out timed all of them and was the only driver getting below the 18 second bracket…Many drivers are still voicing concerns over the economy as sponsor dollars are in short supply this race season. Almost all admit to racing with fewer backers this year over previous seasons…A good crowd was on hand at Marshfield as near perfect weather greeted fans…Coming up June 5th is race two on the ASA Midwest Tour at Elko Speedway of Elko, MN. The race will be televised on FSN Wisconsin and FSN North and can be seen June 19th. Caught some of the telecast of the ASA Tour opener at Madison International Speedway May 2nd. Good to see Midwest auto racing getting some TV time. It’s been long over due…Who says you can’t get anything for a Buck anymore! La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway this past Saturday had all concession items priced at just one dollar. A great idea to get more people out to the race track and entice them to have supper with the whole family while there. A crowd in the 3,000 range was on hand for the event…Steve Carlson continues to enjoy the new double file restarts in the NASCAR Late Model Division feature races at Lax. He went on to win his 3rd main of the year capitalizing on it…Well over 100 racing vehicles in four divisions were on hand at Lax Fairgrounds to do battle this past Saturday including 41 Window World Hornets.
Questions, comments, opinions and other information welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com
#9 Mark Kraus raced to the Feature win and a nice pay check at Marshfield Motor Speedway May 15th, 2010
Kraus puts his race car through its paces in the year 2000 at Marshfield
May 13, 2010
By Dale P. Danielski
At the risk of being very politically incorrect we witnessed a couple drivers here recently “Spank” the field in winning their respective feature events. Don’t worry out there parents who consider spanking violent and uncondoneable, they did it figuratively not literally as both Shawn Pfaff and Steve Carlson at LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway and in ASA Midwest Tour action at Madison International took easy wins in main event competition the weekend of 5/1-2/10.
Actually my generation when we were young could expect a good “wailing” if we crossed that line set up by our parents, unlike today when they bring law enforcement in if you touch your own kid. Nonetheless the terminology applies here as both race drivers made quick and easy work of the fields they competed against. For Pfaff it was win number one at La Crosse Fairgrounds in the NASCAR Late Model Division and once he took the lead he was long gone in the 25 lap feature event. Paul Proksch in his first appearance of 2010 seemed to initially have the car to beat in the main but after a caution flag period caused a double file restart he chose the normally tougher to navigate outside lane once green flag racing resumed. That enabled Pfaff to zoom underneath him and take a lead he never relinquished. In Pfaff’s eyes Proksch made an error in starting outside. “I thought since he wasn’t here last week that he didn’t realize he had the choice where to start inside or outside” According to Proksch it wouldn’t have mattered. He was faster than me and would have gotten by anyway.” Maybe or maybe not in this writers eyes! Placing behind the duo in the feature was Bill Niles which was his best ever Late Model feature event finish. A happy Niles exclaimed, “The beer is on ice and cold!”
Jerrod Loging meanwhile raced to his second career main event win in the Sportsman Division finale. By the looks of it, this one was easier than the first as he had a comfortable, a whole one car length, lead at the finish of 15 laps.
Sunday found a great day for racing and that meant a road trip to Madison International Speedway for the ASA Midwest Tour 2010 opener. As we mentioned earlier, Steve Carlson made quick work of the 136 lap feature field taking the lead on lap 29 and never looking back. At the beginning of the day Carlson never would have predicted these results. “We were terrible in practice. I was thinking, boy I should have been here yesterday to practice. We changed a bunch of stuff though and the car was really good in the race. With this new slick tire they’re running (On the ASA Midwest Tour) times didn’t drop off that much all day. The tires didn’t wear that bad either.” According to Ross Kenseth who drove a fine race to place second, “Carlson is the best driver out here, I learned a lot just following him today.” Hard to argue with that comment with Carlson breezing to the win in a race that honors the late superstar short track racer, Joe Shear. Travis Sauter as has become customary started way back in the field, (17th) and made his way up to 3rd spot before the checkered flag waved. If Sauter could ever qualify even just a tad bit better, he’d more than likely find himself in victory lane more often. Here and there…It was like taking a page out of racings past watching the new ASA Sportsman Tour racers at MIS. Ford’s retro look Mustang and Dodge’s Challenger which look like cars from the 1960s and ‘70s were racing in the feature on the day. Bobby Wilberg in a new, old look Challenger ended up winning the main event holding off Jay Kalbus and Chico Riedner in his grocery getting station wagon! Cool looking stuff to say the least…Long time car owner for Joe Shear, Fred Nielsen was on hand at MIS to honor his great friend and championship driver. Nielsen also related a story of Shear being accused of being a dirty driver by the announcer at the New Smyrna Beach Florida Speedway during Daytona Speed weeks racing. Shear got so mad he stopped his car on the front stretch and climbed the fence in trying to get at the flagman and announcer. Joe was normally very mild mannered but he definitely got his point across on this night!..Dave Watson who was a teammate of Joe Shear for a number of years was also at the event…Eddie Hoffman was on hand at MIS but without his race car. “I wanted to race here today but we just couldn’t get the car ready in time. With construction (Hoffman’s employment) down 70% and haircuts (Hoffman’s sponsor Lisa Thomas Salon) down 10% those things have to be taken care of first before we go racing.” Besides racing in some ASA Tour events Hoffman is also racing in the ASA North Series…Todd Korish after challenging Steve Carlson for the win in the Lax Fairgrounds Speedway opener had hopes of doing one position better in week two. It was not to be however as Korish after contact slammed the front stretch wall in the feature event. Damage was severe but Korish vowed to be back for the next race, which he indeed was…Troy Tuma is trying his hand this season at NASCAR Late Model racing at Lax. “It’s a thrill, it’s a rush. I just had to try it!” Tuma is also owner of the Arena Sports Bar and Night Club one of downtown La Crosse’s hotspots…Mother Nature has not been very kind of late as Mississippi Thunder Speedway here close to home has lost its last three scheduled Friday night shows to poor weather. Marshfield Motor Speedway was set to go with race one of their Yellow River Racing Series May 8th but a bad weather forecast put the kibosh on that event. It’ll now be held May 15th. Top drivers Steve and Skylar Holzhausen, Eugene Gregorich Jr., Mark Eswein the Weinkauf brothers Chris and Jason, along with many more are expected to battle for the 50 lap feature win. Collin Reffner is also expected to make his Super Late Model Racing Debut in the event…With nearly the entire Midwest calling off their race events this past weekend, the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway gave it a go and got their entire show in. And so that folks weren’t having to deal with the coldest late night temps track manager Chuck Deery had his crew speed the program along. Racing in 4 divisions with over 70 cars on hand, the complete program was finished by 9:20 pm after starting at 7:30pm. Please take note other tracks and promoters out there. A fast and efficient program is what fans and competitors want! Winners on the night were defending NASCAR Late Model Champion J. Herbst in that divisions 25 lap feature, with a lap 23 pass of Tyler Reedy for the victory, Nick Clements in a photo finish over Larry Bolster, Jr., in the Sportsman 15 lap headliner, Adam Moore in the 12 lap Thunderstox main and Mary Stallman in the 12 lap Queen Bee race… Rookie Late Model competitors Harley Jankowski and Jes Tenner didn’t wait long to get into victory lane as they won the 1st and 2nd heat race events on the night.
Feedback welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
At the risk of being very politically incorrect we witnessed a couple drivers here recently “Spank” the field in winning their respective feature events. Don’t worry out there parents who consider spanking violent and uncondoneable, they did it figuratively not literally as both Shawn Pfaff and Steve Carlson at LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway and in ASA Midwest Tour action at Madison International took easy wins in main event competition the weekend of 5/1-2/10.
Actually my generation when we were young could expect a good “wailing” if we crossed that line set up by our parents, unlike today when they bring law enforcement in if you touch your own kid. Nonetheless the terminology applies here as both race drivers made quick and easy work of the fields they competed against. For Pfaff it was win number one at La Crosse Fairgrounds in the NASCAR Late Model Division and once he took the lead he was long gone in the 25 lap feature event. Paul Proksch in his first appearance of 2010 seemed to initially have the car to beat in the main but after a caution flag period caused a double file restart he chose the normally tougher to navigate outside lane once green flag racing resumed. That enabled Pfaff to zoom underneath him and take a lead he never relinquished. In Pfaff’s eyes Proksch made an error in starting outside. “I thought since he wasn’t here last week that he didn’t realize he had the choice where to start inside or outside” According to Proksch it wouldn’t have mattered. He was faster than me and would have gotten by anyway.” Maybe or maybe not in this writers eyes! Placing behind the duo in the feature was Bill Niles which was his best ever Late Model feature event finish. A happy Niles exclaimed, “The beer is on ice and cold!”
Jerrod Loging meanwhile raced to his second career main event win in the Sportsman Division finale. By the looks of it, this one was easier than the first as he had a comfortable, a whole one car length, lead at the finish of 15 laps.
Sunday found a great day for racing and that meant a road trip to Madison International Speedway for the ASA Midwest Tour 2010 opener. As we mentioned earlier, Steve Carlson made quick work of the 136 lap feature field taking the lead on lap 29 and never looking back. At the beginning of the day Carlson never would have predicted these results. “We were terrible in practice. I was thinking, boy I should have been here yesterday to practice. We changed a bunch of stuff though and the car was really good in the race. With this new slick tire they’re running (On the ASA Midwest Tour) times didn’t drop off that much all day. The tires didn’t wear that bad either.” According to Ross Kenseth who drove a fine race to place second, “Carlson is the best driver out here, I learned a lot just following him today.” Hard to argue with that comment with Carlson breezing to the win in a race that honors the late superstar short track racer, Joe Shear. Travis Sauter as has become customary started way back in the field, (17th) and made his way up to 3rd spot before the checkered flag waved. If Sauter could ever qualify even just a tad bit better, he’d more than likely find himself in victory lane more often. Here and there…It was like taking a page out of racings past watching the new ASA Sportsman Tour racers at MIS. Ford’s retro look Mustang and Dodge’s Challenger which look like cars from the 1960s and ‘70s were racing in the feature on the day. Bobby Wilberg in a new, old look Challenger ended up winning the main event holding off Jay Kalbus and Chico Riedner in his grocery getting station wagon! Cool looking stuff to say the least…Long time car owner for Joe Shear, Fred Nielsen was on hand at MIS to honor his great friend and championship driver. Nielsen also related a story of Shear being accused of being a dirty driver by the announcer at the New Smyrna Beach Florida Speedway during Daytona Speed weeks racing. Shear got so mad he stopped his car on the front stretch and climbed the fence in trying to get at the flagman and announcer. Joe was normally very mild mannered but he definitely got his point across on this night!..Dave Watson who was a teammate of Joe Shear for a number of years was also at the event…Eddie Hoffman was on hand at MIS but without his race car. “I wanted to race here today but we just couldn’t get the car ready in time. With construction (Hoffman’s employment) down 70% and haircuts (Hoffman’s sponsor Lisa Thomas Salon) down 10% those things have to be taken care of first before we go racing.” Besides racing in some ASA Tour events Hoffman is also racing in the ASA North Series…Todd Korish after challenging Steve Carlson for the win in the Lax Fairgrounds Speedway opener had hopes of doing one position better in week two. It was not to be however as Korish after contact slammed the front stretch wall in the feature event. Damage was severe but Korish vowed to be back for the next race, which he indeed was…Troy Tuma is trying his hand this season at NASCAR Late Model racing at Lax. “It’s a thrill, it’s a rush. I just had to try it!” Tuma is also owner of the Arena Sports Bar and Night Club one of downtown La Crosse’s hotspots…Mother Nature has not been very kind of late as Mississippi Thunder Speedway here close to home has lost its last three scheduled Friday night shows to poor weather. Marshfield Motor Speedway was set to go with race one of their Yellow River Racing Series May 8th but a bad weather forecast put the kibosh on that event. It’ll now be held May 15th. Top drivers Steve and Skylar Holzhausen, Eugene Gregorich Jr., Mark Eswein the Weinkauf brothers Chris and Jason, along with many more are expected to battle for the 50 lap feature win. Collin Reffner is also expected to make his Super Late Model Racing Debut in the event…With nearly the entire Midwest calling off their race events this past weekend, the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway gave it a go and got their entire show in. And so that folks weren’t having to deal with the coldest late night temps track manager Chuck Deery had his crew speed the program along. Racing in 4 divisions with over 70 cars on hand, the complete program was finished by 9:20 pm after starting at 7:30pm. Please take note other tracks and promoters out there. A fast and efficient program is what fans and competitors want! Winners on the night were defending NASCAR Late Model Champion J. Herbst in that divisions 25 lap feature, with a lap 23 pass of Tyler Reedy for the victory, Nick Clements in a photo finish over Larry Bolster, Jr., in the Sportsman 15 lap headliner, Adam Moore in the 12 lap Thunderstox main and Mary Stallman in the 12 lap Queen Bee race… Rookie Late Model competitors Harley Jankowski and Jes Tenner didn’t wait long to get into victory lane as they won the 1st and 2nd heat race events on the night.
Feedback welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
Shawn Pfaff and his 2010 La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway winning ride
Joe Shear Midwest Championship Overall winner at the Dells Motor Speedway, 1974.
April 29, 2010
By Dale P. Danielski
Questions are still being asked as to how the economy will affect short track racing in 2010. With folks unemployed in high numbers, will there be enough discretionary income for fans and participants alike to go racing? If the car count and fan following for the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway opener are indication the answer is a resounding yes!
Despite less than desirable weather conditions here Saturday at the West Salem, WI., speed plant, an excellent field of nearly 70 cars in three divisions and over 2,000 people turned out for the 2010 weekly show lid lifter. When all was said and done it turned out there was plenty of excitement generated for all of them, even a bit too much for some who were unfortunately involved in wrecks on the big 5/8 mile paved oval.
To the surprise of no one, perennial speedway victor Steve Carlson won the 25 lap featured attraction of the night the NASCAR Late Model main event besting a field of 25 cars. Carlson took advantage of the new double file restart rule implemented for the feature events this year, going from 7th spot prior to the first caution period up to third and the lead within a lap after green flag racing resumed. Although many racers are skeptical of the new rule it appears to this writer that the events will prove more competitive than in the past at least in terms of restarting positions. Change can be good and after week one this change looks like it will prove very popular among fans.
Rob Mason used his front starting spot to cross under the checkered flag first in the 15 lap Sportsman feature. The event went green to checkered and consequently drivers were not able to utilize double file restarts for this race. Thunderstox racers put on their usual slam bang action with Adam Moore holding off three others for the win.
2010 notes and quotes… Defending NASCAR Late Model track champion J. Herbst has indicated he is going after a 2nd title. “I’ve already forgotten about last year, that’s done, I’m thinking about this year.” In asking Herbst what it would take to repeat as champion in 2010. “Eliminate the three DNF’s we had and run as good as we did last year” And, father Terry Herbst added, “Patience! And use your head out there. Some nights you just have to take what the car will give you that night. We’ve already (Dad and son) had that discussion.” J. put the advice to good use Saturday by not forcing any issues and placing a hard earned 5th in the main event…Mark Lamoreaux will be back racing at the speedway periodically throughout the year in a Herbst back up car. “I bought the car J. raced in ASA last year and I’m going to race that at Elko (Minnesota) Speedway this year. I’ll race J.’s back up here when I can.”…A very impressive group of rookie drivers were on hand for the opener tonight. Troy Rave with help from the BlackJack Racing team headed by Dave Bean was one of them. Being a Native American, Rave is also receiving much help from the Ho-Chunk Nation in 2010. According to Rave, “We’re going for Rookie of the Year here at La Crosse and will also be racing full time in the Big 8 Series.” Rave looked smooth for his first time racing a Late Model and wound up 11th in the feature event. Jerimy Wagner, Harley Jankowski and Jes Tenner also made their Late Model Debuts finishing 12th, 14th and 17th respectively. Jankowski who started his 2010 racing season a week ago at the track is admittedly low on finances for racing. “I don’t have a job but I made money last week. I won the 200 lap Enduro race and earned twice as much money as I paid for the car, $300 bucks!” Maybe racing for a living is in the upstarts future!...The much publicized debut of Mike Koeneke in the Larry The Cable Guy sponsored car went quite well for the driver that hasn’t raced in 10 years. “This is the first time I’ve driven in traffic in 10 years! The last time I raced was in 1999 and the cars now are a lot different. The car feels good though and I already feel comfortable in it” Koeneke’s comfort level resulted in a hard earned 9th place Feature finish…Thor Anderson after purchasing a Port City Racing car to run at La Crosse saw his season get off to a terrible start in time trials. “I went into the 3rd corner and the car went straight. I think the front stabilizer bar or something broke and I couldn’t turn.” Anderson hopes to get his season back on track racing in the ASA Midwest Tour opener next weekend…Brad Powell after setting fast time saw his night turn sour getting caught up in a Jeff Baker spin which forced him into the wall. Baker also suffered heavy damage in the crash as did Rookie driver Tony Leis who was also involved. All will have plenty of work to do before they get back to racing…Rick Schermerhorn got his season in the Sportsman division off to a good start by setting fast time Saturday night at 21:833 which was a new track record. After accomplishing the feat he received the news that if he races from here on in at the track he’ll have to add 200 lbs of weight to his race car! Reason being: The fiberglass body it carries is not legal according to track rules…We’re thinking of running a track mid-week sometime this year as that is when the weather has been absolutely gorgeous!…Not really, but hopefully we see some sun and nice temps on the weekends coming up as many tracks get their season’s started. Don’t forget ASA Midwest Tour action including Sportsman and Trucks is coming to Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI., Sunday May 2
Feedback welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
Questions are still being asked as to how the economy will affect short track racing in 2010. With folks unemployed in high numbers, will there be enough discretionary income for fans and participants alike to go racing? If the car count and fan following for the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway opener are indication the answer is a resounding yes!
Despite less than desirable weather conditions here Saturday at the West Salem, WI., speed plant, an excellent field of nearly 70 cars in three divisions and over 2,000 people turned out for the 2010 weekly show lid lifter. When all was said and done it turned out there was plenty of excitement generated for all of them, even a bit too much for some who were unfortunately involved in wrecks on the big 5/8 mile paved oval.
To the surprise of no one, perennial speedway victor Steve Carlson won the 25 lap featured attraction of the night the NASCAR Late Model main event besting a field of 25 cars. Carlson took advantage of the new double file restart rule implemented for the feature events this year, going from 7th spot prior to the first caution period up to third and the lead within a lap after green flag racing resumed. Although many racers are skeptical of the new rule it appears to this writer that the events will prove more competitive than in the past at least in terms of restarting positions. Change can be good and after week one this change looks like it will prove very popular among fans.
Rob Mason used his front starting spot to cross under the checkered flag first in the 15 lap Sportsman feature. The event went green to checkered and consequently drivers were not able to utilize double file restarts for this race. Thunderstox racers put on their usual slam bang action with Adam Moore holding off three others for the win.
2010 notes and quotes… Defending NASCAR Late Model track champion J. Herbst has indicated he is going after a 2nd title. “I’ve already forgotten about last year, that’s done, I’m thinking about this year.” In asking Herbst what it would take to repeat as champion in 2010. “Eliminate the three DNF’s we had and run as good as we did last year” And, father Terry Herbst added, “Patience! And use your head out there. Some nights you just have to take what the car will give you that night. We’ve already (Dad and son) had that discussion.” J. put the advice to good use Saturday by not forcing any issues and placing a hard earned 5th in the main event…Mark Lamoreaux will be back racing at the speedway periodically throughout the year in a Herbst back up car. “I bought the car J. raced in ASA last year and I’m going to race that at Elko (Minnesota) Speedway this year. I’ll race J.’s back up here when I can.”…A very impressive group of rookie drivers were on hand for the opener tonight. Troy Rave with help from the BlackJack Racing team headed by Dave Bean was one of them. Being a Native American, Rave is also receiving much help from the Ho-Chunk Nation in 2010. According to Rave, “We’re going for Rookie of the Year here at La Crosse and will also be racing full time in the Big 8 Series.” Rave looked smooth for his first time racing a Late Model and wound up 11th in the feature event. Jerimy Wagner, Harley Jankowski and Jes Tenner also made their Late Model Debuts finishing 12th, 14th and 17th respectively. Jankowski who started his 2010 racing season a week ago at the track is admittedly low on finances for racing. “I don’t have a job but I made money last week. I won the 200 lap Enduro race and earned twice as much money as I paid for the car, $300 bucks!” Maybe racing for a living is in the upstarts future!...The much publicized debut of Mike Koeneke in the Larry The Cable Guy sponsored car went quite well for the driver that hasn’t raced in 10 years. “This is the first time I’ve driven in traffic in 10 years! The last time I raced was in 1999 and the cars now are a lot different. The car feels good though and I already feel comfortable in it” Koeneke’s comfort level resulted in a hard earned 9th place Feature finish…Thor Anderson after purchasing a Port City Racing car to run at La Crosse saw his season get off to a terrible start in time trials. “I went into the 3rd corner and the car went straight. I think the front stabilizer bar or something broke and I couldn’t turn.” Anderson hopes to get his season back on track racing in the ASA Midwest Tour opener next weekend…Brad Powell after setting fast time saw his night turn sour getting caught up in a Jeff Baker spin which forced him into the wall. Baker also suffered heavy damage in the crash as did Rookie driver Tony Leis who was also involved. All will have plenty of work to do before they get back to racing…Rick Schermerhorn got his season in the Sportsman division off to a good start by setting fast time Saturday night at 21:833 which was a new track record. After accomplishing the feat he received the news that if he races from here on in at the track he’ll have to add 200 lbs of weight to his race car! Reason being: The fiberglass body it carries is not legal according to track rules…We’re thinking of running a track mid-week sometime this year as that is when the weather has been absolutely gorgeous!…Not really, but hopefully we see some sun and nice temps on the weekends coming up as many tracks get their season’s started. Don’t forget ASA Midwest Tour action including Sportsman and Trucks is coming to Madison International Speedway, Oregon, WI., Sunday May 2
Feedback welcome at Starmaker Multimedia967 10th Ave N Ste A, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-783-5827, or dale@starmakermultimedia.com.
Steve Carlson #66 races to another win at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway
In 1974 the Spring Opener 50 was held at Wisconsin International of Kaukauna, WI. Larry Detjens took his Dodge Challenger to the win that day