Back to SJDR!Big Diamond Speedway
Race Results
www.BigDiamondraceway.com

09/18/06


COMING EVENTS:
Sunday September 17, 6:00PM – ENDURO.
Sunday September 24, 5:00PM– SPORTSMAN PIONEER POLE BUILDINGS COALCRACKER 50, $2000 TO WIN PLUS ROADRUNNERS, AND PENSKE SHOCKS NON-WINNERS RACE FOR 358 MODIFIEDS.
Saturday September 30, 7:00PM – DIAMOND NATIONALS – DAY ONE – 358 MODIFIEDS, 358/360 SPRINT CARS, ROADRUNNERS/PRO STOCKS, XCEL 600 MODIFIEDS.
Sunday October 1, 5:00PM – DIAMOND NATIONALS – DAY TWO – BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN-MODIFIEDS, FOUR CYLINDERS.


THE DIAMOND NATIONALS, 7 SUPER DIVISIONS OF RACING INVADES BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY SEPT-30/OCT-1
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA –September 10, 2006 – People have been talking about it during the course of 2006, and shortly the time will arrive. The first ever Diamond Nationals are set to take center stage on Saturday September 30 and Sunday October 1 at Big Diamond Raceway.

The special two day autumn show is the first of its kind in the Coal Region. It will feature racing from seven super divisions of racing between the pair of days.

On Saturday Sept. 30, gates will open at 4PM with racing beginning at 6:30PM. Four divisions will be competing on the fast three-eighth’s mile clay oval.

A Big Diamond Raceway program would not be complete without the presence of the 358 Modifieds. They will do battle in a 50-lap feature paying $3000 for first, $1750 for second, $1500 for third, $1250 for fourth, and $1000 for fifth. Cars must be standard style modifieds, no wings or high sail panels, with no fuel injection. Other rules include gas or alcohol, and 92" tires any brand. Weight limit is 2400 lbs.

The 358/360 Sprints, which have seen competition at BDR in the past, make their return to the speedway for the first time in 2006. The event will be a special Selinsgrove (PA) Speedway style 358 Sprint versus a URC style 360 Sprint and will have an open tire. The Sprinters will duel in a 30-lap feature paying $3000 for first, $1750 for second, $1500 for third, $1250 for fourth, and $1000 for fifth. There has been plenty of interest coming in from the 358/360 Sprint people concerning this event.

Another challenge race is on the schedule in a Big Diamond Roadrunners vs Selinsgrove style Pro Stocks event. This is more or less a "run what ya brung" style race. No gear rule, may run headers, and weight limit is 3200 lbs. Cannot be full-blown street stocks. Discretion by the tech officials. They will go 20-laps and the breakdown: $600 for first, $400 for second, $250 for third, $225 for fourth, $200 for fifth.

The Xcel 600 Modified tour returns to BDR for their fifth competition appearance of the season. Tom Martocci has won three of the previous four Diamond events in 2006. They will go a distance of 20-laps carrying the Xcel rules and payoff.

On Sunday, October 1st, the Big Block Modifieds will headline the card with gates opening at 2PM and racing at 4:30PM. Rules include: standard style modifieds, no wings or sail panels, no fuel injection, gas only, 92" tires any brand. Weight limit is 2500 lbs. 358 sbm at 9:1 steel heads or 10.5:1 aluminum motors must way min of 2400 lbs. The contest will go a distance 50-laps and pays $3500 for first, $2000 for second, $1500 for third, $1250 for fourth, and $1000 for fifth.

The Sportsman-Modifieds are slated to appear carrying the following set of rules: Standard Style Modifieds no wings or sail panels, no roller cams, 2 barrel carbs 500 cfm must pass BD Tech gauges. Gas only, 92" tires any brand, weight limit is 2450 lbs. They will go 50-laps and the contest pays $2000 for first, $1250 for second, $1000 for third, $750 for fourth, and $600 for fifth. Interest from the Sportsman contingent has been high concerning this race.

The Four Cylinders have made a pair of visits in 2006 are looking to make their third start on Sunday of the Diamond Nationals. Rules include: No roller cam, no aluminum heads, no tube chassis, 500 cfm carb, gas only, no wings, no fuel injection, Any tire max 10.5 sidewall to sidewall. Weight is #'s per CC. The 20-lap contest will pay $500 for first, $350 for second, $250 for third, $225 for fourth, $200 for fifth, $75 to take the green.

Pit entrance is $30 for one day, $50 for both days. In the grandstands, Adult General Admission is $20 for one day or $35 for two days. Students, Seniors, and Military is $18 for one day or $32 for two days. Camping will be permitted on the premises, no utilities.

The Big Diamond Raceway is located in Forestville PA near Minersville PA. For more information on the speedway, its location and upcoming events info, please visit the official track website located at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


COMING EVENTS:
Sunday September 17, 6:00PM – ENDURO.
Sunday September 24, 5:00PM – SPORTSMAN PIONEER POLE BUILDINGS COALCRACKER 50, $2000 TO WIN PLUS ROADRUNNERS, AND PENSKE SHOCKS NON-WINNERS RACE FOR 358 MODIFIEDS.
Saturday September 30, 7:00PM – DIAMOND NATIONALS – DAY ONE– 358 MODIFIEDS, 358/360 SPRINT CARS, ROADRUNNERS/PRO STOCKS, XCEL 600 MODIFIEDS.
Sunday October 1, 5:00PM – DIAMOND NATIONALS – DAY TWO – BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN-MOIDIFIEDS, FOUR CYLINDERS.


THIRD AND FINAL ENDURO OF THE SEASON SET FOR COMPETITION ON SEPTEMBER 17
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA –September 10, 2006 – The season’s third and final Enduro of the 2006 season is slated for Sunday September 17 at Big Diamond Raceway. The action begins at 6:00PM.

The Enduro 100, an exciting and affordable form of racing, competed at Big Diamond for the first time in 2004. An enduro was also held in 2005. For this season, under the new direction of promoters Buddy Biever, Dave Dissinger, and Barry Bashore, Enduro racing has taken on a new twist with more shows and an added race.

The initial ’06 Enduro show was held on Sunday June 11. The 6/8 cylinders (Big Cars) continued their tradition of a 100-lap contest. And for the first time in track history, a special 4 cylinder (Small Car) 50-lap race was held. Mike Reichert (New Ringgold) conquered the field for a victory in the Big Car Race followed by his brother Chris Reichert (New Ringgold) and Sam Detweiler (Schuylkill Haven). In the Small Car event, Steve Wilson (Lansdale) held off Serafino Raggi (Plymouth Twp) and Chris Spotts (Pennsburg) to grab the triumph.

Sunday August 20 found perfect weather conditions for the season’s second Enduro card. Car counts were higher in each division. Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven) topped a field of 37 machines in the Big Car 100 event and he was followed by M. Reichert and Phil Levering (Parkerford). The 50-lap Small Car race went caution/red free and the victory went to Bobby Coco (Sag Harbor NY) over Wilson and Raggi.

Entry forms for the Sunday Sept. 17 Enduro are located on the track’s official website, www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

An important rule is in place for this event. Any 6/8 cylinder GM cars running leaf springs will have to add a 12" long 1.5 ID pipe sealed to the exiting exhaust pipe. The entire exhaust must exit through this pipe.

Gates open at 3:30PM with racing beginning at 6:00PM. A family affordable event, Adult General Admission to the grandstands is just $5.


COMPLETE-FINAL BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY POINTS 2006

FINAL 358 MODIFIED POINT STANDINGS
1 #4-Duane Howard-Oley-1720 (3)
2 #88-Jeff Strunk-Bethel-1665 (5)
3 #6/#14W-Ryan Watt-Boyertown-1390
4 #00-Doug Manmiller-Wyomissing-1285
5 #1c-Craig Von Dohren-Oley-1195 (1)
6 #14-Rick Laubach-Hellertown-1150
7 #11D-Billy Pauch Jr.-Frenchtown NJ-1110 (1)
8 #33-Ray Swinehart-Bechtelsville-1060 (1)
9 #117-Kevin Hirthler-Boyertown-1025 (1)
10 #11-Meme DeSantis-Temple-1020 (2)
11 #64W-John Willman-Birdsboro-930
12 42-Jeff Sechrist-Wernersville-885
13 #R102-Shawn Fitzpatrick-Pottsville-870
14 #16-Jason Hamilton-Erwinna-820
15 #8-Doug Hendricks-Orwigsburg-780
16 #81-Kevin Hartnett-Perkasie-765 (1)
17 #W9-Colt Harris-Gordon-755
18 #118-Sean Merkel-Gilbertsville-665
19 #221-Ryan Beltz-Schwenksville-600
20 #24H-Justin Andrews-Parryville-575
21 #44-Danny Erb-Boyertown-560
22 #9-Bruce Hirthler-Green Lane-480
23 #123-Roy Wiest-Elizabethville-460
24 #81-Terry Meitzler-Kutztown-400
25 #1450-Greg Weiland-Port Carbon PA-395
26 #77-Keith Hoffman-Whitehall-390 (1)
27 #7JR-Jimmy Reppert-Hamburg-335
28 #114-Carroll Hine III-Boyertown-335
29 #1-Bobby Gunther-Walsh-Easton-295
30 #77-Frank Cozze-Wind Gap-265
31 #79-Amanda Spotts-Pennsburg-250
32 #2-John Tschudy-Birdsboro-220
33 #77-Doug Hoffman-Allentown-190
34 #71s-Sammy Schaeffer-Shoemakersville-180
35 #R6-Dale Roth-Schaefferstown-150
36 #27M-Ken Eckert Jr.-New Ringgold-145
37 #178-Neil Huber-Bethel-130
38 #85AM-Jon Kellner-Lansdale-115
39 #357-Billy Pauch-Frenchtown NJ-110
40 #9R-Brian Weaver-Windsor NY-100
41 #37x-Tommy Sheetz-Pottstown-80
42 #29-Kenny Brightbill-Sinking Springs-80
43 #102-Tim Fitzpatrick-Branchdale-80
44 #27-Steve Bottcher-Lehighton-70
45 #17-Ryan Grim-Lehighton-70
46 #70-/#79x-Kurt Spotts-Pennsburg-60
47 #10-Rich Wisdo-Elroy-55
48 #517-Steve Lozorak III-Spring City-45
49 #25-Ray Deemer-Phillipsburg NJ-40
50 #57-Bill Gensler-Fleetwood-40
51 #71s-Andy Burkhart-Temple-35
52 #54W-Chris Warren-Jonestown-25
53 #19B-Brent Boyer-Bloomsburg-25
54 #M1-Mark Kratz-Chalfont-25
55 #117x-Marty Shappell-Pottsville-25
56 #83K-Bernie Kelly-Phillipsburg NJ-25
57 #69-Andy Fayash Jr.-Mary-D-20
58 #54-Billy Warren-Jonestown-20
59 #F15-Dale Hartz-Hamburg-15
60 #35-Chris Gambler-Lehighton-10
61 #386-Barry Readinger-Fleetwood-10
62 #42F-Freddie Fisher-Sinking Springs-10
63 #3K-Ron Kline-Salfordville-5
64 #19-Tom Umbenhauer-Richland-5
65 #13JR-Lenny Leibold Jr.-Lebanon-5
66 #327-Brad Missimer-Bechtelsville-5
67 #M2-Marc Fehr-5

FINAL SPORTSMAN POINT STANDINGS
1 #47-Gary Wagner Jr.-Womelsdorf-1580 (2)
2 #26-Tom Brennan-Pottsville-1555 (2)
3 #72/#88-Ray Woodall Jr.-Pen Argyl-1380
4 #99-Craig Whitmoyer-Hamburg-1340 (1)
5 #6JR-Kevin Beach-Llewellyn-1325 (1)
6 #84-Leroy Long-Womelsdorf-1205
7 #19U-Jordan Umbenhauer-Richland-1200 (1)
8 #17-Billy Moyer Jr.-Pine Grove-1180
9 #46-Josh Biever-Orwigsburg-1110 (2)
10 #917-Jarrad Miller-Varto-1060 (1)
11 #17R-Kevin Nolf-Nazareth-960 (1)
12 #221-Rob Gibson-Schuylkill Haven-915 (1)
13 #14-Louie Mitchalk-Summit Hill-825
14 #4-Mike Hughes-Riegelsville-800
15 #3-Luke Wagner-Grantville-800 (1)
16 #2-Rich Stankiewicz-Reading-710
17 #64-Andy Miller-Schuylkill Haven-695
18 #71-Mike Mamana-Lewisbury-665
19 #95-Freddie Fisher-Sinking Springs-655
20 #56-Shawn Hiestand-Leesport-585
21 #8-Brad Force-Sellersville-465
22 #2T-Mike Taylor-Milford NJ-405
23 #11-AJ DeSantis-Temple-360
24 #13-James Morris-Riegelsville-345
25 #88-Michael Bent-Alpha NJ-330
26 #31-Harry Landis-Nazareth-310
27 #19-Brad Brightbill-Sinking Springs-300
28 #111-Archie Myers III-Stewartsville NJ-290
29 #29/#2/#7s-Scott Singley-Upper Black Eddy-285
30 #76-Bob Lilick-King of Prussia-250
31 #144/#3M-Donnie Miller-Northampton-215
32 #0-Kevin Brady-Millersburg-215
33 #14R-Rick Hendricks-New Ringgold-205
34 #61-Patrick Cozze-Wind Gap-195
35 #57-Ricky Rutt-Phillipsburg NJ-185 (1)
36 #z28-Brian Lilick-King of Prussia-170
37 #43-Joe Masiado-Easton-165 (1)
38 #64-Kyle Weiss-Hamburg-155
39 #110-Bill Finneran III-Mahanoy City-135
40 #6-Craig Richards-Hamburg-125
41 #113-Jeff Sterner-Bowmanstown-125
42 #R35-Ebby Ridge-Milford NJ-120
43 #5-Mike Finkbinder-115
44 #15J-John Pursell-Riegelsville-110
45 #118-Corey Renninger-Llewellyn110
46 #94-Ricky Beavers-Pittstown NJ-100
47 #75-Blaine Sadler Jr.-Norristown-100
48 #74-Pete Marburger-Reading-100
49 #73-Darrel Herman-Allentown-90
50 #5-Jason Bashore-Bethel-85
51 #77-Tom Miller-Gilbertsville-85
52 #21-Dave Lauver-Palmyra-85
53 #39-Lowell Snyder Jr.-Erwinna-80
54 #41-Brian Puckett-Old Forge-80
55 #67-Matt Krause-New Cumberland-80
56 #5-Jimmy Payne-Lebanon-75
57 #39J-John Stevens-75
58 #301-Jeff McCaughey-Blakeslee-80
59 #5-Troy Loeb-70
60 #48-Jack Brink-Columbia NJ-60
61 #33-Bobby Yeager-Scranton-55
62 #98-Tim Apgar-Milford NJ-50
63 #00-Gary Butler-45
64 #28-Tom Solderich-Bethlehem-40
65 #5-Eric Kauffman-35
66 #5W-Pat Wall-15
67 #71JR-Chris James Jr.-Mohrsville-15
68 #33Y/#84T-Jamie Yankowski-Throop-15
69 #32-Danny Bouc-15
70 #5-Chase Mattioli-10
71 #31K-Jimmy Kleedorfer-Nazareth-10
72 #12V-John Deatrich Jr.-Palo Alto-5
73 #44s-Scott Merritt-Phillipsburg NJ-5
74 #14x-Phil Reader-5
75 #5-Jon Kautz-1

FINAL ROADRUNNER POINT STANDINGS
1 #66-Kevin Holland-Pine Grove-1760 (2)
2 #22-Tom Hablett-Schuylkill Haven-1680 (3)
3 #45-Ryan Olenick-Forestville-1645 (1)
4 #z71-Andy Zvorsky-Orwigsburg-1495 (1)
5 #20-Corey Sechrist-Womelsdorf-1495 (1)
6 #37-Eric D. Pinkerton-Tower City-1420
7 #11x-Joe Hendricks-Auburn-1395 (1)
8 #00-Tory Jenkins-Schuylkill Haven-1340 (4)
9 #19W-Derek Bender-Tremont-1305
10 #550-Kevin Olenick-Forestville-1270
11 #11-Dan Strenkoski-Llewellyn-1190
12 #101-Gary Renninger-Pottsville-1165
13 #712-Jeremy Becker-Pottsville-1080 (1)
14 #17/#555-Elvin Brennan III-Pottsville-1015
15 #23-Kyle Somers-Schuylkill Haven-925
16 #77-Andrew Fayash III-Mary-D PA-850
17 #721-Jason Sherman-Tower City-845 (1)
18 #17V-Bud Vidal Jr.-Pottsville-790
19 #29B-Ricky Bender-Joliett-770
20 #711-Bobby Ditzler-445
21 #03-Sterling Moyer-Pine Grove-295
22 #11k-Kirby Schlappich-Temple-285 (2)
23 #1-Chris Holland-Pine Grove-255
24 #93-Rob Pyle-Downingtown-170
25 #BIG1-KP Buck-65
26 #1G-Josh Generella-New Ringgold-60
27 #BIG1-Jason Neidlinger-Schuylkill Haven-55
28 #23-Andy Somers-Pottsville-45
29 #1T-Tim Hobbs-Easton-5


PAYOFF INCREASED FOR SEPTEMBER 24 PIONEER POLE BUILDINGS SPORTSMAN COALCRACKER 50 AT BIG DIAMOND

Forestville, PA –September 6, 2006- The rescheduled due to rain Pioneer Pole Buildings Coalcracker 50 for sportsman cars received a boost in purse Wednesday thanks to Bob Greene of Pioneer Pole Buildings. The top prize for the 50 lap feature event will now pay $2,000 to win. "After an outstanding response from sponsoring the Coalcracker 100 and a heightened interest in the September 24 rain date for the Sportsman 50 we decided here at Pioneer to increase the sponsorship of the sportsman event to pay a increased purse. The sportsman drivers deserve to finish their year off in grand style at Big Diamond and we enjoy being a part of that. " commented Greene.

The Pioneer Pole Buildings Coalcracker 50 will pay $2000 to the winner, $1250 for second, $1000 for third, $800 for fourth, and $600 for fifth. Tenth place pays $300 and it is $100 to take the green.

The Pioneer Pole Building's Coalcracker 50 program is now scheduled for Sunday September 24 with a tentative 5pm starting time with the sportsman 50, and roadrunners on the program. Also added to the card is the Penske Shocks Non-Winners Race. This event is open to non-winning Modified drivers that have entered at least four Friday Big Diamond Raceway events in 2006. It pays $250 to win and a complete set of Penske Racing Shocks. The remaining payoff is 2nd-$500, 3rd-$400, 4th-$300, 5th-$250, 10th-$100, minimum $50 to take the green.

The management at the track has intentions of concluding this event by 9pm so parents and school children are home at a reasonable hour.

Admission prices for September 24 are: Adults-$12, Students 11-17 and Seniors 60+-$10, children 10 and under are free. Race fans who attended the Coalcarcker 100 and present their rain-check on Sunday Sept. 24 will be offered a $2 discount at the ticket window.

Rules and entry forms are available at the track’s official website, www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

NOTE- THE AD IN AARN WAS PLACED THIS WEEK PRIOR TO THIS PURSE INCREASE


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY EXTENDS THANKS FOR COALCRACKER 100 SUCCESS

The management team at Big Diamond Raceway would like to thank the
fans, competitors, and sponsors for making it's first Coalcracker 100
event a great success......

In the midst of Hurricane Ernesto invading the East coast last week
there was a bright spot to the weekend for race fans, Big Diamond
Raceway completed it's first Pioneer Pole Buildings Coalcracker 100
under the new management team of Dave Dissinger, Buddy Biever, and
Barry Bashore.

Torrential downpours to the Schuylkill County area caused many issues
around the speedway grounds not to mention fighting an uphill battle
with the track surface and preparation that the management team was set
to encounter. "When I first arrived at the track early Sunday morning
myself and the others were concerned about how the new clay we added
had held up under the heavy downpours from the storm. To look from a
distance the track condition didn't look to bad overall, the issue at
hand was to get the graters and equipment onto the surface and down
into the infield where some areas were under a foot of water."
commented Dave Dissinger.

The first priority was to know we could get the show in for the fans,
racers, and sponsors. "Fritz and everyone else involved worked
extensively on the track surface to get it to a point where it was
manageable and provided a decent racing surface for the competitors.
The only disappointment along the way was due to the excessive amount
of water that was still deep into the track that caused the surface to
tear up and a high cushion to form causing us to do maintenance in
between events causing delays in the program. Anytime you have a extra
distance event with additional make-up events and you have to go out on
the track for maintenance it is not favorable. It makes the night
longer as was the case Friday night and for that we apologize to the
fans and competitors." said Dissinger.

On Sunday night water on the track was not the only issue. The main
sewer line going into the new bathrooms in the spectator area developed
a break in the line. The staff at Big Diamond Raceway apologizes for
any inconvenience that it may have caused the fans and would like to
thank them for being cooperative in using the other facilities, and
also extend thanks to Schuylkill Sales that assisted in the work that
needed to be done to get the water leak stopped.

Track partner Buddy Biever commented on the event late Monday evening
with his thoughts- "Without a doubt my partners and I felt that this
was the best attended and diversified field of drivers in recent memory
for the Coalcracker, we would like to thank all the teams who attended
and supported the event."

" I would like to thank the fans for all of their support and
cooperation in making the Coalcracker 100 an event that Pioneer Pole
Buildings was very proud to be involved with. Everyone was very pleased
to see the fans come out early and enjoy tailgating and the pre-race
entertainment that was offered."

"In closing I will apologize for the lengthy program, we had every
intention of starting the feature at 10pm, the track just didn't allow
us to do that.I will be the first to admit we were not perfect on this
night. Doing line-ups I could have saved us 1/2 hour by setting up and
running a even amount of heat races thus enabling the first consolation
to be lined up right after the last heat race. These things as well as
other event issues will be thought out and tweaked so we may present a
even stronger Coalcracker event for the drivers and fans in 2007."

As always we appreciate everyones support here at Big Diamond Raceway
and we thank all of you....

Dave Dissinger, Buddy Biever, and Barry Bashore
BD Raceway , LLC


COMING EVENTS:
Sunday September 17, 6:30PM – ENDURO.
Sunday September 24, 5:00PM(Tentative Start) – PIONEER POLE BUILDINGS COALCRACKER 50 FOR SPORTSMAN, $1500 TO WIN PLUS ROADRUNNERS
Saturday September 30, 7:00PM – DIAMOND NATIONALS – A BLUE COLLAR RACERS EXTRAVAGANZA – 358 MODIFIEDS, 358/360 SPRINT CARS, ROADRUNNERS/PRO STOCKS, XCEL 600 MODIFIEDS.
Sunday October 1, 5:00PM – DIAMOND NATIONALS – A BLUE COLLAR RACERS EXTRAVAGANZA – BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN-MOIDIFIEDS, FOUR CYLINDERS.

DUANE HOWARD ADDS TO TREMENDOUS BIG DIAMOND SEASON WITH A COALCRACKER 100 VICTORY
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA –September 3, 2006 – Duane Howard stormed to victory circle for his largest win of 2006 Sunday night at Big Diamond Raceway. The Oley PA based racer emerged victorious in the annual Pioneer Pole Buildings Coalcracker 100, a triumph worth a hearty $10,000.

Howard recently captured the ’06 track championship, the sixth of his BDR career. His Coalcracker victory marks the fourth in the history of the contest. Howard becomes the first four-time Coalcracker winner. It was Howard’s fourth win of the season and 53rd career.

Howard’s car owner Chad Sinon, likewise, notched his first Coalcracker triumph. Howard and Sinon combined as a team for the 2006 season. Sitting behind the wheel of his Main Racing Engines powered #4, Howard has been strong during the entire context of 2006. He becomes the second straight driver to win both the track title and coalcracker (Doug Hoffman achieved the same feat in 2004).

One of the largest Coalcracker fields to date, 73 cars, assembled for the evening’s festivities. Those 73 entrants were reduced to 37 qualified cars for the start of Sunday’s twenty-sixth Coalcracker race.

Billy Pauch (Frenchtown NJ) started inside pole in the 100-lap event. Pauch led the opening two laps just before both Meme DeSantis (Temple) and Kevin Hirthler (Boyertown) powered into the top two positions. Hirthler made a powerful blast into the lead on a lap four restart with DeSantis and Pauch in tow. Hirthler led until his machine slowed to a stop in turn four of the twelfth lap, relinquishing the front position to DeSantis.

Pauch grabbed the lead under green conditions from the high side. DeSantis held his ground in the runner-up position. Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville) moved into the third position on lap 20, and Jeff Strunk (Bethel) followed into the fourth position on the next lap. Howard, who originally started ninth, grabbed the fifth spot on a lap 27 restart. Racing continued green from laps 27 through 50. A scheduled half-way fuel stop was presented at the completion of 50 circuits with Pauch still in command.

To begin the second half of the event, Pauch throttled his self-owned #1 into the front with DeSantis chasing him down. Strunk moved to the inside of Swinehart on lap 57 and took control of the third position. The caution flag waved on lap 68. During the yellow flag period, Strunk’s machine stopped on the front stretch with a broken drive shaft. The new order under green found Pauch in front over DeSantis, Swinehart, Howard, and Rick Laubach (Hellertown).

On lap 71, the second place car of DeSantis had a left rear tire go flat, dropping him from the event. Swinehart moved into second followed by Howard, Laubach and Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing). Manmiller passed Laubach for fourth on lap 75. Howard worked past Swinehart via the outside lane of lap 80 to gain possession of the runner-up spot. Pauch remained in front, and Howard slowly began to reel him in.

On the 86th lap, Pauch’s machine suffered a flat tire. Howard quickly powered ahead of Pauch to grab the lead as they crossed the stripe to score the circuit. Pauch retired to the pit area. Howard raced through lapped traffic and put some distance between the top five of Swinehart, Manmiller, Laubach, and Craig Von Dohren (Oley).

Howard went on to capture the victory, becoming the first ever four-time winner of the prestigious Coalcracker race. Swinehart drove his self-owned Bicknell-33 to a runner-up finish worth $5000. Manmiller, driving the same car he was raced throughout the season with new paint and number-K9, raced to a third place result of $3000. Von Dohren raced past Laubach on the 99th lap when Laubach’s machine suffered a flat tire. Von Dohren claimed $2000 for fourth. Billy Pauch Jr. (Frenchtown NJ) grabbed fifth on the final lap from the ailing Laubach to grab the $1500 position.

John Tschudy (Birdsboro) occasionally competes at BDR and notched his finest finsish of sixth. Terry Meitzler (Kutztown) drove the Dennis Bailey owned #81 to a seventh. (Ironically, Bailey himself drove a #81 to a top ten finish in the very first Coalcracker race in 1979). Laubach nursed his Biever-14 to an eighth place result. John Willman, driving the #74W for this event, finished ninth with Tom Umbenhauer (in only his second ’06 start) rounding out the top ten.

The Area Auto Racing News Hard Luck Award recipient was Ricky Schaffer, who qualified via his heat race in the Hansell-357 but lost an engine on the final lap.

Joe Masiado (Easton) led all 20-laps of the rain rescheduled Sportsman feature event. Masiado, who started his career in the 90s as a Street Stock racer at the now closed Penn National Speedway, held on to score his very first career BDR Sportsman feature win. Masiado rebounded from some mechanical problems which had been plaguing the team in recent dates.

Masiado was followed by recent feature winner Rob Gibson (Schuylkill Haven), Tom Brennan (Pottsville), Rich Stankiewicz (Reading), and Louie Mitchalk (Summit Hill).

Meanwhile, Gary Wagner Jr. (Womelsdorf) finished seventh in the contest. Wagner’s finish was enough to clinch his first career BDR track championship. Wagner won the title by a mere 25 points over Tom Brennan.

The season is not completed as four racing events remain on the calendar. On Sunday September 17, the speedway’s third set of Enduros will be presented. The Four Cylinder (Small Car) and Six/Eight Cylinder (Big Car) races are slated to begin at 6:30PM. Sunday September 24 is the rain rescheduled Coalcracker 50 for Sportsman plus Roadrunners. The Diamond Nationals will find seven divisions competing on September 30 and October 1.

Big Diamond Raceway – Sunday September 3, 2006 – Full Results
358 MODIFIEDS
First Heat (10-Laps): 1) Duane Howard, 2) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 3) John Tschudy.
Second Heat (10-Laps): 1) Doug Manmiller, 2) Ricky Schaffer, 3) Keith Hoffman.
Third Heat (10-Laps): 1) Meme DeSantis, 2) Sean Merkel, 3) Kenny Brightbill.
Fourth Heat (10-Laps): 1) John Willman, 2) Billy Pauch, 3) Terry Meitzler.
Fifth Heat (10-Laps): 1) Kevin Hirthler, 2) Ray Swinehart, 3) Billy Pauch Jr.
Sixth Heat (10-Laps): 1) Rick Laubach, 2) Jeff Strunk, 3) Jon Kellner.
Seventh Heat (10-Laps): 1) Ryan Watt, 2) Tom Brennan, 3) Jimmy Reppert.
First B-Main (10-Laps): 1) Craig Von Dohren, 2) Jeff Sechrist, 3) Jeff Paulson, 4) Freddie Fisher.
Second B-Main (10-Laps): 1) Kevin Hartnett, 2) Justin Andrews, 3) Danny Erb, 4) Rich Scagliotta.
Third B-Main (10-Laps): 1) Steve Swinehart, 2) Kyle Weiss, 3) Colt Harris, 4) Keith Brightbill.
Fourth B-Main (10-Laps): 1) Jimmy Horton, 2) Rich Wisdo, 3) Tom Umbenhauer, 4) Bruce Hirthler.
Guaranteed Starter: Ryan Beltz.

Did Not Qualify: Jon Kellner Jr., Greg Weiland, Tommy Sheetz, Dale Hartz, Chris Esposito, Kevin Nolf, Ricky Beavers, Jason Hamilton, Doug Hendricks, Mike Taylor, Andy Burkhart, Kevin Beach, John Stangle, Rob Gibson, Glenn Owens, Joe Masiado, Brad Missimer, Roy Wiest, Gene Stravinsky, Josh Biever, Gary Hager, Ryan Grim, Mark Kratz, Mike Bailey, Chris Gambler, Carroll Hine III, Jack Hartnett, Scott Singley, David Van Horn Jr., Bobby Gunther-Walsh, Kenny Eckert Jr., Ray Woodall Jr., Bill Gensler, Jimmy Horton IV, Marc Fehr.

PIONEER POLE BUILDINGS COALCRACKER 100 FEATURE: 1) Duane Howard, 2) Ray Swinehart, 3) Doug Manmiller, 4) Craig Von Dohren, 5) Billy Pauch Jr., 6) John Tschudy, 7) Terry Meitzler, 8) Rick Laubach, 9) John Willman, 10) Tom Umbenhauer, 11) Kyle Weiss, 12) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 13) Danny Erb, 14) Ryan Watt, 15) Jimmy Reppert, 16) Justin Andrews, 17) Jeff Paulson, 18) Billy Pauch, 19) Meme DeSantis, 20) Jon Kellner, 21) Jeff Strunk, 22) Colt Harris, 23) Kevin Hartnett, 24) Steve Swinehart, 25) Keith Brightbill, 26) Bruce Hirthler, 27) Jeff Sechrist, 28) Rich Scagliotta, 29) Jimmy Horton, 30) Rich Wisdo, 31) Sean Merkel, 32) Kevin Hirthler, 33) Kenny Brightbill, 34) Freddie Fisher, 35) Ryan Beltz, 36) Tom Brennan, 37) Keith Hoffman.

SPORTSMAN
PHOENIX 1450/GARLAND COMMUNICATIONS FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Joe Masiado, 2) Rob Gibson, 3) Tom Brennan, 4) Rich Stankiewicz, 5) Louie Mitchalk, 6) Josh Biever, 7) Gary Wagner Jr., 8) Mike Taylor, 9) Kevin Beach, 10) Craig Whitmoyer, 11) Billy Moyer Jr., 12) Jarrad Miller, 13) Leroy Long, 14) Brad Force, 15) Harry Landis, 16) AJ DeSantis, 17) Mike Hughes, 18) James Morris, 19) Kevin Nolf, 20) Ray Woodall Jr., 21) Jordan Umbenhauer, 22) Luke Wagner. DNS: Bobby Yeager, Danny Bouc.

FINAL POINTS: 1) #47-Gary Wagner Jr.-1580, 2) #26-Tom Brennan-1555, 3) #72-Ray Woodall Jr.-1380, 4) #99-Craig Whitmoyer-1340, 5) #6JR-Kevin Beach-1325.


BIG DIAMOND COALCRACKER SCHEDULE AND ADMISSION

Forestville, PA –August 28, 2006 – A traditional area pastime is just one day away at Big Diamond Raceway. Pioneer Pole Buildings Coalcracker Weekend is set to take place this Friday September 1 and Sunday September 3, 2006.

FRIDAY----
The Coalcracker 50 headlines Friday’s card. The popular Roadrunner division is set to compete in a full program. The 358 Modifieds are holding a special non-winners race. This event is open to non-winning Modified drivers that have entered at least four events in 2006. It pays $250 to win and a complete set of Penske Racing Shocks. The remaining payoff is 2nd-$500, 3rd-$400, 4th-$300, 5th-$250, 10th-$100, minimum $50 to take the green. 358 Modified practice is also on the schedule for Friday.

Friday, gates open at 5:00PM with warm-ups taking place at 7:00PM, First Heat is at 7:30PM. Admission prices are: Adults-$12, Students 11-17 and Seniors 60+-$10, children 10 and under are free.
*****Race fans who attend the Friday Sept. 1 program and return for the Coalcarcker 100 on Sunday Sept. 3 will be offered a $2 discount upon presenting their rain check from the Friday night show.

SUNDAY-----
The Sportsman drivers have another race scheduled for Sunday September 3rd. The final point race was rained-out this past Friday evening. After a meeting, the top drivers in points agreed that the best rain date would be for this Sunday. The final point race will be a 20-lap feature event. Gary Wagner Jr. (Womelsdorf) leads Tom Brennan by 45 points. Ray Woodall Jr. (Pen Argyl) is 135 markers back in the third position. A break will take place after the Sportsman feature, allowing the drivers an opportunity to make necessary changes to their equipment if they wish to compete in the Modified Coalcracker 100. During the break 2006 358 modified track champion Duane Howard and BPG Racing will be honored with victory lane celebrations that were not able to take place on August 25 due to the inclement weather.

The 358 Modified Pioneer Pole Buildings Coalcracker 100 pays $10,000 for first, $5000 for second, $3000 for third, $2000 for fourth, and $1500 for fifth. Once again, rules can be found on the speedway’s website.

Track gates will open at 2PM with entertainment taking place during the afternoon. The photo and novelty stand will have customer appreciation sales and Miss Racette Alyssa Sharman will be making an appearance. Pioneer Pole Building Coalcracker 100 T-shirts designed by Weikel Racewear will be available on raceday at a bargain value of $12.00. Sportsman warm-ups begin at 6:45PM.

Admission prices for Sunday’s festivities are: Adults-$22, Students, Seniors, & Military-$20, Children 10 & Under are free.

****Race fans who attend the Friday Sept. 1 program and return for the Coalcarcker 100 on Sunday Sept. 3 will be offered a $2 discount upon presenting their rain check from the Friday night show.

(Note)-In case of a rain-out on Sunday, there is a Monday Sept. 4 rain-date with an approximate 5:00PM start.

Again, please check Big Diamond’s official website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com for all details about the speedway and racing.


COMING EVENTS:
Friday September 1, 7:30PM – SPORTSMAN COALCRACKER 50, $1500 TO WIN PLUS ROADRUNNERS. PRACTICE AND NON WINNERS RACE FOR 358 MODIFIEDS.
Sunday September 3, 7:30PM – COALCRACKER 100 FOR 358 MODIFIEDS. $10,000 TO WIN. RAIN RESCHEDULED SPORTSMAN FEATURE FROM AUGUST 25(FINAL POINT RACE FOR SPORTSMAN.)
Sunday September 17, 6:30PM – ENDURO.
Saturday September 30 7:00PM – DIAMOND NATIONALS – DAY ONE .
Sunday October 1 5:00PM – DIAMOND NATIONALS – DAY TWO.


PIONEER POLE BUILDINGS COALCRACKER WEEKEND IS JUST DAYS AWAY
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA –August 28, 2006 – A traditional area pastime is literally just a few days away at Big Diamond Raceway. Pioneer Pole Buildings Coalcracker Weekend is set to take place on Friday September 1 and Sunday September 3, 2006.

The Coalcracker was born at BDR on August 31st 1979. It began as an extra distance Friday night event held during the Labor Day Weekend. Bob Emerich drove his Emerich racing team #12 Gremlin bodied Small Block Modified to victory circle in the initial Coalcracker 50. Since that time, the event has taken on several changes and moderations. 2006 marks the twenty-sixth version of the Coalcracker.

Big Diamond Raceway has celebrated its rebirth in a huge way this season. The new promotional team of Buddy Biever, Dave Dissinger, and Barry Bashore have worked hard to make 2006 one of the most memorable years in track history. Improvements have been made on the track and to the entire facility itself. This has led to tremendous participation from both the crowd and pit area.

This year, Pioneer Pole Buildings will present the traditional Coalcracker races under truly a new era at Big Diamond Raceway. Excitement continues to build for this event as it approaches. Rules and entry forms are available at the track’s official website, www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

The Sportsman division is set for their big race this Friday September 1st. The Pioneer Pole Buildings Coalcracker 50 will pay $1500 to the winner, $1000 for second, $800 for third, $650 for fourth, and $500 for fifth. This event will mark the third season ending 50-lap championship event for the Sportsman class. David Van Horn (Harmony NJ) and Jason Hamilton (Erwinna) are past race winners.

Louie Mitchalk (Summit Hill), Jordan Umbenahuer (Richland), Tom Brennan (Pottsville), Josh Biever (Orwigsburg), Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg), Rob Gibson (Schuylkill Haven), Luke Wagner (Grantville), Jarrad Miller (Barto), Kevin Nolf (Nazareth), and Kevin Beach (Llewellyn) have each reached victory lane this season. They are searching for the largest triumph of the year in this Friday’s event.

Kyle Weiss (Hamburg) won a RoC event at Big Diamond earlier in the season. Weiss is looking to add a Coalcracker accomplishment to his big win in July. Justin Holland (White Lake NY) and Jack Swain (Pilesgrove NJ) are just a pair of the invaders who are ready to stage war with the BDR regulars.

The Coalcracker 50 is only part of Friday’s card. The popular Roadrunner division is set to compete in a full program. The 358 Modifieds are holding a special non-winners race. This event is open to non-winning Modified drivers that have entered at least four events in 2006. It pays $250 to win and a complete set of Penske Racing Shocks. The remaining payoff is 2nd-$500, 3rd-$400, 4th-$300, 5th-$250, 10th-$100, minimum $50 to take the green. 358 Modified practice is also on the schedule for Friday.

On Friday, gates open at 5:00PM with warm-ups taking place at 7:00PM, First Heat is at 7:30PM. Admission prices are: Adults-$12, Students 11-17 and Seniors 60+-$10, children 10 and under are free. Race fans who attend the Friday Sept. 1 program and return for the Coalcarcker 100 on Sunday Sept. 3 will be offered a $2 discount upon presenting their rain check from the Friday night show.

The Sportsman drivers have another race scheduled for Sunday September 3rd. The final point race was rained-out this past Friday evening. After a meeting, the top drivers in points agreed that the best rain date would be for this Sunday. The final point race will be a 20-lap feature event. Gary Wagner Jr. (Womelsdorf) leads Tom Brennan by 45 points. Ray Woodall Jr. (Pen Argyl) is 135 markers back in the third position. A break will take place after the Sportsman feature, allowing the drivers an opportunity to make necessary changes to their equipment if they wish to compete in the Modified Coalcracker 100. During the break 2006 358 modified track champion Duane Howard and BPG Racing will be honored with victory lane celebrations that were not able to take place on August 25 due to the inclement weather.

The 358 Modified Pioneer Pole Buildings Coalcracker 100 pays $10,000 for first, $5000 for second, $3000 for third, $2000 for fourth, and $1500 for fifth. Once again, rules can be found on the speedway’s website. Track gates will open at 2PM with entertainment taking place during the afternoon. The photo and novelty stand will have customer appreciation sales and Miss Racette Alyssa Sharman will be making an appearance. Pioneer Pole Building Coalcracker 100 Tee shirts designed by Weikel Racewear will be available on raceday at a bargain value of $12.00. Sportsman warm-ups begin at 6:45PM.

Duane Howard (Oley) recently captured his sixth career BDR track championship this past Friday night. He narrowly won the title over his rival, Jeff Strunk (Bethel). Howard and Strunk have each won the Coalcracker on three occasions. Billy Pauch (Frenchtown NJ) has won the event twice and plans on competing in this year’s event. Craig Von Dohren (Barto) and Keith Hoffman (Whitehall) are also former winners of the Coalcracker.

BDR regulars are set to defend the home turf to their best abilities. Some of the BDR drivers expected include: Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing), Ryan Watt (Boyertown), Doug Hendricks (Orwigsburg), Rick Laubach (Hellertown), Jason Hamilton (Erwinna), Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville), Bruce Hirthler (Green Lane), Kevin Hirthler (Boyertown), Roy Wiest (Elizabethville), Ryan Beltz (Schwenksville), Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville), Bobby Gunther-Walsh (Allentown), John Willman (Birdsboro), Kenny Eckert (New Ringgold), and Greg Weiland (Port Carbon).

Former speedway regulars: Kyle Weiss (Hamburg) and JR Crouse (Nazareth) are also expected in the field along with John Tschudy (Birdsboro), Tom Umbenahuer (Richland), and numerous Sportsman division drivers.

Admission prices for Sunday’s festivities are: Adults-$22, Students, Seniors, & Military-$20, Children 10 & Under are free.
****Race fans who attend the Friday Sept. 1 program and return for the Coalcarcker 100 on Sunday Sept. 3 will be offered a $2 discount upon presenting their rain check from the Friday night show.

In case of a rain-out on Sunday, there is a Monday Sept. 4 rain-date with an approximate 5:00PM start.

Again, please check Big Diamond’s official website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com for all details about the speedway and racing.


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY POINTS AFTER AUG 25, 2006
***PLEASE NOTE 358 MOD AND ROADRUNNER ARE FINAL POINTS, SPORTSMAN FINAL POINT RACE IS SEPT 3

FINAL 358 MODIFIED POINT STANDINGS AFTER 08/25/2006
1 #4-Duane Howard-Oley-1720 (3)
2 #88-Jeff Strunk-Bethel-1665 (5)
3 #6/#14W-Ryan Watt-Boyertown-1390
4 #00-Doug Manmiller-Wyomissing-1285
5 #1c-Craig Von Dohren-Oley-1195 (1)
6 #14-Rick Laubach-Hellertown-1150
7 #11D-Billy Pauch Jr.-Frenchtown NJ-1110 (1)
8 #33-Ray Swinehart-Bechtelsville-1060 (1)
9 #117-Kevin Hirthler-Boyertown-1025 (1)
10 #11-Meme DeSantis-Temple-1020 (2)
11 #64W-John Willman-Birdsboro-930
12 42-Jeff Sechrist-Wernersville-885
13 #R102-Shawn Fitzpatrick-Pottsville-870
14 #16-Jason Hamilton-Erwinna-820
15 #8-Doug Hendricks-Orwigsburg-780
16 #81-Kevin Hartnett-Perkasie-765 (1)
17 #W9-Colt Harris-Gordon-755
18 #118-Sean Merkel-Gilbertsville-665
19 #221-Ryan Beltz-Schwenksville-600
20 #24H-Justin Andrews-Parryville-575
21 #44-Danny Erb-Boyertown-560
22 #9-Bruce Hirthler-Green Lane-480
23 #123-Roy Wiest-Elizabethville-460
24 #81-Terry Meitzler-Kutztown-400
25 #1450-Greg Weiland-Port Carbon PA-395
26 #77-Keith Hoffman-Whitehall-390 (1)
27 #7JR-Jimmy Reppert-Hamburg-335
28 #114-Carroll Hine III-Boyertown-335
29 #1-Bobby Gunther-Walsh-Easton-295
30 #77-Frank Cozze-Wind Gap-265
31 #79-Amanda Spotts-Pennsburg-250
32 #2-John Tschudy-Birdsboro-220
33 #77-Doug Hoffman-Allentown-190
34 #71s-Sammy Schaeffer-Shoemakersville-180
35 #R6-Dale Roth-Schaefferstown-150
36 #27M-Ken Eckert Jr.-New Ringgold-145
37 #178-Neil Huber-Bethel-130
38 #85AM-Jon Kellner-Lansdale-115
39 #357-Billy Pauch-Frenchtown NJ-110
40 #9R-Brian Weaver-Windsor NY-100
41 #37x-Tommy Sheetz-Pottstown-80
42 #29-Kenny Brightbill-Sinking Springs-80
43 #102-Tim Fitzpatrick-Branchdale-80
44 #27-Steve Bottcher-Lehighton-70
45 #17-Ryan Grim-Lehighton-70
46 #70-/#79x-Kurt Spotts-Pennsburg-60
47 #10-Rich Wisdo-Elroy-55
48 #517-Steve Lozorak III-Spring City-45
49 #25-Ray Deemer-Phillipsburg NJ-40
50 #57-Bill Gensler-Fleetwood-40
51 #71s-Andy Burkhart-Temple-35
52 #54W-Chris Warren-Jonestown-25
53 #19B-Brent Boyer-Bloomsburg-25
54 #M1-Mark Kratz-Chalfont-25
55 #117x-Marty Shappell-Pottsville-25
56 #83K-Bernie Kelly-Phillipsburg NJ-25
57 #69-Andy Fayash Jr.-Mary-D-20
58 #54-Billy Warren-Jonestown-20
59 #F15-Dale Hartz-Hamburg-15
60 #35-Chris Gambler-Lehighton-10
61 #386-Barry Readinger-Fleetwood-10
62 #42F-Freddie Fisher-Sinking Springs-10
63 #3K-Ron Kline-Salfordville-5
64 #19-Tom Umbenhauer-Richland-5
65 #13JR-Lenny Leibold Jr.-Lebanon-5
66 #327-Brad Missimer-Bechtelsville-5
67 #M2-Marc Fehr-5

SPORTSMAN POINT STANDINGS AFTER 08/25/2006 (FINAL POINT RACE IS 9-3)
1 #47-Gary Wagner Jr.-Womelsdorf-1485 (2)
2 #26-Tom Brennan-Pottsville-1440 (2)
3 #72-Ray Woodall Jr.-Pen Argyl-1350
4 #99-Craig Whitmoyer-Hamburg-1260 (1)
5 #6JR-Kevin Beach-Llewellyn-1240 (1)
6 #19U-Jordan Umbenhauer-Richland-1175 (1)
7 #84-Leroy Long-Womelsdorf-1140
8 #17-Billy Moyer Jr.-Pine Grove-1105
9 #46-Josh Biever-Orwigsburg-1010 (2)
10 #917-Jarrad Miller-Varto-990 (1)
11 #17R-Kevin Nolf-Nazareth-925 (1)
12 #221-Rob Gibson-Schuylkill Haven-795 (1)
13 #3-Luke Wagner-Grantville-780 (1)
14 #4-Mike Hughes-Riegelsville-755 (1)
15 #14-Louie Mitchalk-Summit Hill-720 (1)
16 #64-Andy Miller-Schuylkill Haven-695
17 #71-Mike Mammana-Nazareth-665
18 #95-Freddie Fisher-Sinking Springs-655
19 #2-Rich Stankiewicz-Reading-600
20 #56-Shawn Hiestand-Leesport-585
21 #8-Brad Force-Sellersville-405
22 #88-Michael Bent-Alpha NJ-330
23 #2T-Mike Taylor-Milford NJ-315
24 #11-AJ DeSantis-Temple-310
25 #13-James Morris-Riegelsville-305
26 #19-Brad Brightbill-Sinking Springs-300
27 #111-Archie Myers III-Stewartsville NJ-290
28 #29/#2/#7s-Scott Singley-Upper Black Eddy-285
29 #31-Harry Landis-Nazareth-255
30 #76-Bob Lilick-King of Prussia-250
31 #144/#3M-Donnie Miller-Northampton-215
32 #0-Kevin Brady-Millersburg-215
33 #14R-Rick Hendricks-New Ringgold-205
34 #61-Patrick Cozze-Wind Gap-195
35 #57-Ricky Rutt-Phillipsburg NJ-185 (1)
36 #z28-Brian Lilick-King of Prussia-170
37 #64-Kyle Weiss-Hamburg-155
38 #110-Bill Finneran III-Mahanoy City-135
39 #6-Craig Richards-Hamburg-125
40 #113-Jeff Sterner-Bowmanstown-125
41 #R35-Ebby Ridge-Milford NJ-120
42 #5-Mike Finkbinder-115
43 #15J-John Pursell-Riegelsville-110
44 #118-Corey Renninger-Llewellyn110
45 #94-Ricky Beavers-Pittstown NJ-100
46 #75-Blaine Sadler Jr.-Norristown-100
47 #74-Pete Marburger-Reading-100
48 #73-Darrel Herman-Allentown-90
49 #5-Jason Bashore-Bethel-85
50 #77-Tom Miller-Gilbertsville-85
51 #21-Dave Lauver-Palmyra-85
52 #39-Lowell Snyder Jr.-Erwinna-80
53 #41-Brian Puckett-Old Forge-80
54 #67-Matt Krause-New Cumberland-80
55 #5-Jimmy Payne-Lebanon-75
56 #39J-John Stevens-75
57 #301-Jeff McCaughey-Blakeslee-80
58 #5-Troy Loeb-70
59 #48-Jack Brink-Columbia NJ-60
60 #98-Tim Apgar-Milford NJ-50
61 #33-Bobby Yeager-Scranton-50
62 #00-Gary Butler-45
63 #28-Tom Solderich-Bethlehem-40
64 #43-Joe Masiado-Easton-40
65 #5-Eric Kauffman-35
66 #5W-Pat Wall-15
67 #71JR-Chris James Jr.-Mohrsville-15
68 #33Y/#84T-Jamie Yankowski-Throop-15
69 #32-Danny Bouc-10
70 #5-Chase Mattioli-10
71 #31K-Jimmy Kleedorfer-Nazareth-10
72 #12V-John Deatrich Jr.-Palo Alto-5
73 #44s-Scott Merritt-Phillipsburg NJ-5
74 #14x-Phil Reader-5
75 #5-Jon Kautz-1

FINAL ROADRUNNER POINT STANDINGS AFTER 08/25/2006
1 #66-Kevin Holland-Pine Grove-1760 (2)
2 #22-Tom Hablett-Schuylkill Haven-1680 (3)
3 #45-Ryan Olenick-Forestville-1645 (1)
4 #z71-Andy Zvorsky-Orwigsburg-1495 (1)
5 #20-Corey Sechrist-Womelsdorf-1495 (1)
6 #37-Eric D. Pinkerton-Tower City-1420
7 #11x-Joe Hendricks-Auburn-1395 (1)
8 #00-Tory Jenkins-Schuylkill Haven-1340 (4)
9 #19W-Derek Bender-Tremont-1305
10 #550-Kevin Olenick-Forestville-1270
11 #11-Dan Strenkoski-Llewellyn-1190
12 #101-Gary Renninger-Pottsville-1165
13 #712-Jeremy Becker-Pottsville-1080 (1)
14 #17/#555-Elvin Brennan III-Pottsville-1015
15 #23-Kyle Somers-Schuylkill Haven-925
16 #77-Andrew Fayash III-Mary-D PA-850
17 #721-Jason Sherman-Tower City-845 (1)
18 #17V-Bud Vidal Jr.-Pottsville-790
19 #29B-Ricky Bender-Joliett-770
20 #711-Bobby Ditzler-445
21 #03-Sterling Moyer-Pine Grove-295
22 #11k-Kirby Schlappich-Temple-285 (2)
23 #1-Chris Holland-Pine Grove-255
24 #93-Rob Pyle-Downingtown-170
25 #BIG1-KP Buck-65
26 #1G-Josh Generella-New Ringgold-60
27 #BIG1-Jason Neidlinger-Schuylkill Haven-55
28 #23-Andy Somers-Pottsville-45
29 #1T-Tim Hobbs-Easton-5


COMING EVENTS:
Friday September 1, 7:30PM – SPORTSMAN COALCRACKER 50, $1500 TO WIN PLUS ROADRUNNERS. PRACTICE AND NON WINNERS RACE FOR 358 MODIFIEDS.
Sunday September 3, 7:30PM – COALCRACKER 100 FOR 358 MODIFIEDS. $10,000 TO WIN. RAIN RESCHEDULED SPORTSMAN FEATURE FROM AUGUST 25.
Sunday September 17, 6:30PM – ENDURO.
Saturday September 30 – DIAMOND NATIONALS – DAY ONE.
Sunday October 1 – DIAMOND NATIONALS – DAY TWO.
This upcoming weekend, Friday September 1 and Sunday September 3, Big Diamond Raceway will be presenting the prestigious Pioneer Pole Buildings Coalcracker extravaganza.
Friday is the Coalcracker 50 for Sportsman with $1500 going to the winning driver. The Raodrunners will also be in competition. The 358 Modifieds will compete in a non-winners race (open to Modified drivers that have entered at least four events), and Practice Sessions. Gates open at 5PM with warm-ups at 7PM and heat racing getting the green at 7:30PM. Adult General Admission is $12, Students 11-17 & Seniors 60+ is $10. Children 10 and under is free.
Sunday September 3 is the Coalcracker 100 for 358 Modifieds paying $10,000 to win. The rain rescheduled Sportsman 20-lap feature from this past Friday evening will be held, which determines the 2006 track champion. Gates open at 2PM with Sportsman warm-ups at 6:45PM. Adult general admission is $22. Students, Seniors and Military is $20. Children 10 and under is free.


HOWARD WINS BIG DIAMOND TITLE IN CLASSIC STYLE CAPTURING FEATURE WIN IN THE PROCESS…By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA –August 25, 2006 – Winning features is the classic formula for capturing a track championship. Duane Howard of Oley entered Friday evening in a tie for the 358 Modified points lead at Big Diamond Raceway. The night ended with a rain storm and Howard in the winner’s circle for his third feature triumph of the season. The win earned Howard his sixth career track championship.

“I have to thank Chad Sinon and the team” mentioned Howard after the races. “I was out of work at the time when Chad called me to drive his equipment. For a first year effort with this team, I am really happy with the results. Getting our MAIN Racing Engines Motor back a week ago that we shook down at Grandview (on Tuesday night) put us back on the page we were on at the start of the year.”

Jeff Strunk captured five main event victories this season. The Bethel area native was the driver tied with Howard in the point standings. Howard started the A-Main from fourteenth, while Strunk began from fifteenth. The pair raced closely during the opening moments, racing side-by-side at moments. Howard remained in front and put a few cars between himself and Strunk at different moments. Suddenly, during a lap six caution break, Strunk ducked into the pits.

“On the second lap, we broke a rear shock mount” mentioned Strunk, who ended up finishing the event in the twelfth position. “I felt that I could have run with Duane with that issue and charged forward with it the way it was. When it began to backfire and pop due to an ignition issue, our night was pretty much done”.

Glenn Hyneman, from Strunk’s racing teams, commented on the night’s action. “Duane ran a good race and the team earned it all year long. Anytime you have two guys in that position where it is tied going in, it shows a lot of effort by both drivers and teams.” Hyneman noted, “The goal for me as owner is to win races. If championships come with the wins so be it. Tomorrow will be another day”.

Colt Harris (Gordon) set the early pace in the 358 Modified main event. The graduate of go-kart and Sportsman-Modified racing was the early show star. Harris led the opening fifteen circuits. Howard entered the top five on lap four and grabbed the runner-up position on lap fourteen. On the sixteenth lap, Howard pounced to the inside of Harris in turns one and two. Howard grabbed control of the top spot and never looked back.

With twenty-one laps on the board, Terry Meitzler (who was racing third at the time) showed smoke on his machine and slowed from contention. At exactly the same moment, rain started to pour across the facility at a heavy force. The cars were called to the pit area and the race was eventually deemed official at 21 laps.

Howard emerged victorious for his fifty-second career BDR feature victory. It was most likely Howard’s first win in a 21-lap main event. Howard scored the track championship for his first since 1999, when he drove for car owner Cary Duncan. Howard’s margin of victory in the standings was 55 markers over Strunk.

Bruce Hirthler (Green Lane) enjoyed his finest evening of the season. He grabbed second from Harris on lap seventeen and remained there at the finish. Previous week’s winner, Keith Hoffman (Whitehall) grabbed third when Meitzler’s machine dropped from the race. Harris notched his first top five of the season for fourth, and Ryan Watt (Boyertown) raced from eleventh to fifth.

Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven) began his own win streak as he throttled to the 15-lap Roadrunner feature win. Hablett won the previous Sunday’s Enduro race and powered his #22 Chevy Nova to his third overall win of the season on Friday night.

Kevin Holland (Pine Grove) won the 2006 Roadrunner track championship. Holland started eleventh and ended up sixth. Holland scored two point race victories this season aboard his self-owned #66 Chevy Nova. He won the track title by 80 points over Hablett, who was actually third heading into the evening.

Diamond’s first Roadrunner champ, Dan Strenkoski (Llewellyn), led the opening five laps of the A-Feature. Hablett, who started eighth, passed Strenkoski via the inside lane to take the lead on lap six. Hablett remained in front until the checkers fell. Eric Pinkerton (Tower City) registered his second straight runner-up result and Joe Hendricks (Auburn) finished third. Tory Jenkins (Schuylkill Haven), who had won three in a row, ended up fourth. Strenkoski rounded out the top five.

Tom Martocci of Kunkletown won the 15-lap XCEL 600 Modified feature. It was Martocci’s seventh overall triumph of the season and he stretched his point’s lead in the traveling tour. This event just happened to be a double points show. Martocci inherited the lead on lap two when the first place car of Scotty Washburn lost an engine. Martocci kept a hard charging Mike Keppler (Bechtelsville) at bay to capture the win. Kevin Gruber (Slatington) was third over Kyle Gardner (Wind Gap) and Nick Mady.

The rains arrived with one more feature remaining, the final points show and 20-lapper for Sportsman. After a meeting with the top Sportsman drivers in points, they have decided that their point finale will be held on Sunday September 3rd prior to the Coalcracker 100. Heat winners in the Sportsman division were Rob Gibson (Schuylkill Haven), Rich Stankiewicz (Reading), and Joe Masiado (Easton). Ray Woodall Jr. (Pen Argyl) won the B-Main.

The night of racing was sponsored by Phoenix 1450 WPAM in Pottsville PA and Garland Communications of Pottsville PA. New clay was placed on the track for this event, and the cars were getting around the speedway quickly. The new clay allowed for some great two and three wide racing throughout the evening. The National Guard Helicopters were also on hand for the evening.

NOTE: All quotes are courtesy of Chris Budihas. Thanks Chris.

Friday August 25 2006 FULL RESULTS
358 MODIFIED FEATURE (21-LAPS): 1) Duane Howard, 2) Bruce Hirthler, 3) Keith Hoffman, 4) Colt Harris, 5) Ryan Watt, 6) Meme DeSantis, 7) Billy Pauch Jr., 8) Ray Swinehart, 9) Rick Laubach, 10) Doug Manmiller, 11) Jeff Sechrist, 12) Jeff Strunk, 13) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 14) Jimmy Reppert, 15) Greg Weiland, 16) Doug Hendricks, 17) Ryan Beltz, 18) Roy Wiest, 19) Tommy Sheetz Jr., 20) Terry Meitzler, 21) Craig Von Dohren, 22) Sean Merkel, 23) Kevin Hirthler, 24) Bobby Gunther-Walsh, 25) Justin Andrews, 26) John Willman. DNS: Jason Hamilton.
Heat Winners: Bruce Hirthler, Duane Howard, Colt Harris.
B-Main Winner: Jason Hamilton.
Did Not Qualify: Amanda Spotts, Mark Kratz, Freddie Fisher, Kurt Spotts.

FINAL UNOFFICIAL 358 MODIFIED POINTS: 1) Duane Howard-1720, 2) Jeff Strunk-1665, 3) Ryan Watt-1390, 4) Doug Manmiller-1285, 5) Craig Von Dohren-1195, 6) Rick Laubach-1150, 7) Billy Pauch Jr.-1110, 8) Ray Swinehart-1060, 9) Kevin Hirthler-1025, 10) Meme DeSantis-1020.

ROADRUNNER FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Tom Hablett, 2) Eric Pinkerton, 3) Joe Hendricks, 4) Tory Jenkins, 5) Dan Strenkoski, 6) Kevin Holland, 7) Andy Zvorsky, 8) Corey Sechrist, 9) Gary Renninger, 10) Kyle Somers, 11) Ricky Bender, 12) Kevin Olenick, 13) Rob Pyle, 14) Chris Holland, 15) Jason Neidlinger, 16) Kirby Schlappich, 17) Ryan Olenick, 18) Derek Bender, 19) Tim Hobbs, 20) Andrew Fayash III.
Heat Winners: Gary Renninger, Dan Strenkoski.

FINAL UNOFFICIAL ROADRUNNER POINTS: 1) Kevin Holland-1760, 2) Tom Hablett-1680, 3) Ryan Olenick-1645, 4) Andy Zvorsky-1495, 5) Corey Sechrist-1495.

XCEL 600 MODIFIED FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Tom Martocci, 2) Mike Keppler, 3) Kevin Gruber, 4) Kyle Gardner, 5) Nick Mady, 6) Paul Tuthill, 7) Travis Halabura, 8) Dylan Cisney, 9) Curt Amey, 10) Bryan Mady, 11) Dave Baldwin Sr., 12) Joe Fanelli, 13) Bucky Buscafusca, 14) Scotty Washburn.
Heat Winners: Scotty Washburn, Travis Halabura.


BIG DIAMOND COALCRACKER WEEKEND PRE-ENTRY DUE THIS FRIDAY AUGUST 25

Minersville, Pa- Just a reminder to competitors that if you intend on
participating in the Coalcracker weekend and wish to save on entry
fees, the pre-entry deadline is this Friday evening Aug. 25.

Entry is as follows-
Coalcracker 50 for Sportsman $1,500 to win on Sept 1
Pre-entry by August 25--- $20.00
After deadline- $35.00
Pit Admission will be $25 with no pit license required
****Sportsman may enter the Coalcracker 50 and Coalcracker 100 for $50
by August 25, $75 after Aug 25
(Friday may compete with 2 barrel carb. and Sunday with 650 4 barrel
carb)

Coalcracker 100 $10,000 to win on Sept. 3
Pre-entry by August 25--- $50.00
After deadline- $75.00
Pit Admission will be $30 with no pit license required

Entry forms are available at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


BIG DIAMOND FANS HAVE SPOKEN, NOW THEY CAN LISTEN

Minersville, Pa- The race fans at Big Diamond Raceway have encountered a problem over the last few weeks, it seems that the newly renovated sound system at the track has encountered some technical issues that have caused it to malfunction due to various conditions such as weather conditions.

The fans at Big Diamond Raceway have been very outspoken on this issue the past few weeks and the speedway management team have worked with Moyer Electronics of Pottsville, Pa to put a resolve to this issue on Friday night August 25 as the season long point races come to a conclusion.

"On Friday night August 25 the events at Big Diamond Raceway will be broadcast on radio dial FM 88.3 but limited to the immediate area of the speedway grounds. Fans and race teams will be able to listen to all of the action live as it is broadcast to their personal radio's that they are encouraged to bring. The sound system malfunction is something that has frustrated us over the last couple of weeks and we just wanted to figure out a resolve so that none of our great race fans here at the track miss anything due to not being able to hear it.

Moyer Electronics provided us with a FM transmitter and the system was tested on Tuesday with great success and we think it is something that the fans will enjoy on Friday evening." commented Buddy Biever.

"This does not mean that we have given up on our sound system as we will be addressing it over the next few weeks and into 2007 to have things corrected." said Biever.


THE SHOWDOWN FOR CHAMPIONSHIP GLORY CONCLUDES THIS FRIDAY NIGHT; COALCRACKER AWAITS
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – August 21, 2006 – This Friday at the Big Diamond Raceway three divisional champions will be crowned. The 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners will battle for championship points one final time in 2006. Each of the three divisions have a close title fight, and August 25’s events will determine the overall winner.

Duane Howard (Oley) and Jeff Strunk (Bethel) have been combating all year for the points lead. Howard has led most of the way, and Strunk continued to close the gap during the past couple of events. After this past Friday evening’s feature, Howard and Strunk are currently locked in a dead even tie for the lead. Each competitor holds 1595 markers.

Howard, twice a feature winner this season, is searching for his sixth BDR track championship, which would be a divisional record. Meanwhile, five-time feature winner Strunk hopes for a possible fifth career BDR track title. This will certainly be a classic title war as every feature finishing position is of the most importance.

Thirteen different drivers have emerged victorious in Sportsman features this season. Six of those were first career winners. It has been a wide open year for the Sportsman class and their current points leader is hoping for a career first championship. Gary Wagner Jr. (Womelsdorf) has been showing the way through most of the season. Wagner leads defending two-time track king Tom Brennan (Pottsville) by a mere 45 markers. Ray Woodall Jr. (Pen Argyl) is 135 points back in the third position.

The entire top ten in Roadrunner points have never won a track championship, which means that this year’s title winner will earn his first. Kevin Holland (Pine Grove) leads the list with a 60 point advantage over Ryan Olenick (Forestville). Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven) is 105 points back in the third spot.

This Friday’s card sponsored by Phoenix 1450 includes a four division show. The regular three divisions will compete along with the traveling XCEL 600 Modified Series. After a busy weekend, the tour will shift to BDR as part of Friday’s festivities. Tom Martocci (Kunkletown) won a pair of BDR 600 Modified features earlier in the year, and Jon Haegele (Ivyland) was the most recent BDR 600 Modified winner. Also of interest to adults and young fans alike there will be a special attraction to start the evening as helicopters presented by the National Guard will be displayed. The National Guard has told management they have one more surprise that will possibly arrive during the evening's event fan's are encouraged to come out early to see the display.

Gates open at 5PM with warm-ups at 7PM and heats going green at 7:30PM. Adult General Admission is $12, Students 11-17 and Seniors 60+ is just $10. Children 10 and under are free.

Pioneer Pole Buildings Coalcracker Weekend is right around the corner. The events are taking place on Friday September 1st at 7:30PM and Sunday September 3rd at 7:30PM.

Friday Sept 1’s event headliner is the Coalcracker 50 for Sportsman. $1500 is the winning prize, $1000 for second, $800 for third, $650 for fourth, and $500 for fifth. The Roadrunners will share the Friday night card with a complete show. Modified Practice Sessions and Penske Shocks Non-Winners Race for the Modifieds is also scheduled. This race is open to non-winning Modified drivers that have entered at least four events in 2006. Gates open at 5PM with warm-ups at 7PM and heats going green at 7:30PM. Adult General Admission is $12, Students 11-17 and Seniors 60+ is just $10. Children 10 and under are free.

Sunday Sept. 3’s top attraction is the Coalcracker 100 for 358 Modifieds. The top five purse: 1) $10,000, 2) $5000, 3) $3000, 4) $2000, 5) 1500
Gates open at 2PM with warm-ups at 7PM and heats going green at 7:30PM. Adult General Admission is $22, Students 11-17, Military ID and Seniors 60+ is $20. Children 10 and under are free. . Entry forms and rules are available at the speedway’s official website, www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


COMING EVENTS:
Friday August 25, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS. FINAL POINT RACE FOR 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, AND ROADRUNNERS. JEFF STRUNK AND DUANE HOWARD ARE TIED FOR THE 358 MODIFIED POINT LEAD.
Friday September 1, 7:30PM – SPORTSMAN COALCRACKER 50, $1500 TO WIN PLUS ROADRUNNERS. PRACTICE AND NON WINNERS RACE FOR 358 MODIFIEDS.
Sunday September 3, 7:30PM – COALCRACKER 100 FOR 358 MODIFIEDS. $10,000 TO WIN.
Sunday September 17, 6:30PM – ENDURO.
Saturday September 30 – DIAMOND NATIONALS – DAY ONE.
Sunday October 1 – DIAMOND NATIONALS – DAY TWO.

TOM HABLETT AND BOBBY COCO SCORE ENDURO WINS ON BEAUTIFUL SUNDAY EVENING
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA –August 20, 2006 – Under perfect weather conditions, Big Diamond Raceway’s second Enduro races of the season were held. Tom Hablett of Schuylkill Haven won the 100-lap 6/8 Cylinder (Big Car) Enduro, and Bobby Coco (Sag Harbor NY) was the 4 Cylinder (Small Car) Enduro 50-lap winner.

Thirty-seven cars grabbed the green flag for the Big Car Enduro 100. Former Sportsman-Modified competitor, Keith Owens (Auburn), led the opening 30 tours aboard his #33 car. When Owens’ machine halted in the third corner, Keith Bissinger (Bloomsburg) took command. Bissinger, a highly successful Enduro racer, led until lap 41 when his machine was tagged into a spin. Hablett took control from this point.

Hablett, a Friday night regular in Diamond’s Roadrunner class, simply dominated the remainder of the contest. He throttled the Camaro bodied #00 to his third overall Diamond victory of the season. It was Hablett’s first time behind the wheel of an Enduro car. Previous Enduro 100 winner, Mike Reichert (New Ringgold) recovered from an earlier spin and finished two laps back to the leader in the second position.

Phil Levering (Parkerford) was driving the exact same Malibu-39 that saw many Diamond Roadrunner laps in previous seasons. Levering used his prior BDR experience to finish third. Bob “Mad Dog” Wink (Palm) settled for a fourth place result. Wink is another well-established Enduro competitor. Ralph Bankes III (Oneida) finished fifth ahead of former Diamond Roadrunner racer, Shawn Naftzinger (Auburn). Fourteen of the original thirty-six starters were left at the finish.

The 50-lap Four Cylinder endurance race was completed in non-stop fashion. Bobby Coco started from the pole and wired the field for the hard earned victory. Coco lapped all but the second and third place finishers and won the contest by over sixteen seconds. It was Coco’s first ever appearance at the track and he is looking forward to competing at BDR again at the next enduro.

Steve Wilson (Lansdale) won the previous Four Cylinder Enduro. Wilson, who is a crew member on Jeff Strunk’s #88 Modified, finished second. Serafino Raggi (Plymouth Twp.) ran a strong race to finish in the third spot. Rounding out the top six were: Larry Fisher (Fern Glen), Rob Pyle (Downingtown), and Chris Holland (Pine Grove).

The next Enduro at Big Diamond Raceway will be held on Sept 17, a Sunday. Gates open at 4:30PM with racing going green at 6:30PM.


Current Big Diamond Raceway Point Standings As Of 8/18/06

COMPLETE 358 MODIFIED POINT STANDINGS AFTER 08/18/2006
POINTS FOR ALL DIVISIONS END THIS FRIDAY AUGUST 26
1 #4-Duane Howard-Oley-1595 (2)
2 #88-Jeff Strunk-Bethel-1595 (5)
3 #6/#14W-Ryan Watt-Boyertown-1285
4 #00-Doug Manmiller-Wyomissing-1205
5 #1c-Craig Von Dohren-Oley-1170 (1)
6 #14-Rick Laubach-Hellertown-1065
7 #11D-Billy Pauch Jr.-Frenchtown NJ-1015 (1)
8 #117-Kevin Hirthler-Boyertown-1010 (1)
9 #33-Ray Swinehart-Bechtelsville-970 (1)
10 #64W-John Willman-Birdsboro-925
11 #11-Meme DeSantis-Temple-920 (2)
12 #16-Jason Hamilton-Erwinna-815
13 #42-Jeff Sechrist-Wernersville-810
14 #T102-Shawn Fitzpatrick-Pottsville-805
15 #81-Kevin Hartnett-Perkasie-765 (1)
16 #8-Doug Hendricks-Orwigsburg-730
17 #118-Sean Merkel-Gilbertsville-645
18 #W9-Colt Harris-Gordon-645
19 #24H-Justin Andrews-Parryville-570
20 #44-Danny Erb-Boyertown-560
21 #221-Ryan Beltz-Schwenksville-555
22 #123-Roy Wiest-Elizabethville-420
23 #81-Terry Meitzler-Kutztown-370
24 #9-Bruce Hirthler-Green Lane-360
25 #114-Carroll Hine III-Boyertown-335
26 #1450-Greg Weiland-Port Carbon-335
27 #1-Bobby Gunther-Walsh-Easton-285
28 #77-Keith Hoffman-Whitehall-275 (1)
29 #7JR-Jimmy Reppert-Hamburg-275
30 #77-Frank Cozze-Wind Gap-265
31 #79-Amanda Spotts-Pennsburg-245
32 #2-John Tschudy-Birdsboro-220
33 #77-Doug Hoffman-Allentown-190
34 #71s-Sammy Schaeffer-Shoemakersville-180
35 #R6-Dale Roth-Schaefferstown-150
36 #27M-Ken Eckert Jr.-New Ringgold-145
37 #178-Neil Huber-Bethel-130
38 #85AM-Jon Kellner-Lansdale-115
39 #357-Billy Pauch-Frenchtown NJ-110
40 #9R-Brian Weaver-Windsor NY-100
41 #29-Kenny Brightbill-Sinking Springs-80
42 #102-Tim Fitzpatrick-Branchdale-80
43 #27-Steve Bottcher-Lehighton-70
44 #17-Ryan Grim-Lehighton-70
45 #10-Rich Wisdo-Elroy-55
46 #70-Kurt Spotts-Pennsburg-55
47 #37x-Tommy Scheetz-Pottstown-45
48 #517-Steve Lozorak III-Spring City-45
49 #25-Ray Deemer-Phillipsburg NJ-40
50 #57-Bill Gensler-Fleetwood-40
51 #71s-Andy Burkhart-Temple-35
52 #54W-Chris Warren-Jonestown-25
53 #19B-Brent Boyer-Bloomsburg-25
54 #117x-Marty Shappell-Pottsville-25
55 #83K-Bernie Kelly-Phillipsburg NJ-25
56 M1-Mark Kratz-Chalfont-20
57 #69-Andy Fayash Jr.-Mary-D-20
58 #54-Billy Warren-Jonestown-20
59 #F15-Dale Hartz-Hamburg-15
60 #35-Chris Gambler-Lehighton-10
61 #386-Barry Readinger-Fleetwood-10
62 #3K-Ron Kline-Salfordville-5
63 #19-Tom Umbenhauer-Richland-5
64 #13JR-Lenny Leibold Jr.-Lebanon-5
65 #327-Brad Missimer-Bechtelsville-5
66 #M2-Marc Fehr-5
67 #42F-Freddie Fisher-Sinking Springs PA-5

COMPLETE SPORTSMAN POINT STANDINGS AFTER 08/18/2006
1 #47-Gary Wagner Jr.-Womelsdorf-1485 (2)
2 #26-Tom Brennan-Pottsville-1440 (2)
3 #72-Ray Woodall Jr.-Pen Argyl-1350
4 #99-Craig Whitmoyer-Hamburg-1260 (1)
5 #6JR-Kevin Beach-Llewellyn-1240 (1)
6 #19U-Jordan Umbenhauer-Richland-1175 (1)
7 #84-Leroy Long-Womelsdorf-1140
8 #17-Billy Moyer Jr.-Pine Grove-1105
9 #46-Josh Biever-Orwigsburg-1010 (2)
10 #917-Jarrad Miller-Varto-990 (1)
11 #17R-Kevin Nolf-Nazareth-925 (1)
12 #221-Rob Gibson-Schuylkill Haven-795 (1)
13 #3-Luke Wagner-Grantville-780 (1)
14 #4-Mike Hughes-Riegelsville-755 (1)
15 #14-Louie Mitchalk-Summit Hill-720 (1)
16 #64-Andy Miller-Schuylkill Haven-695
17 #71-Mike Mammana-Nazareth-665
18 #95-Freddie Fisher-Sinking Springs-655
19 #2-Rich Stankiewicz-Reading-600
20 #56-Shawn Hiestand-Leesport-580
21 #8-Brad Force-Sellersville-405
22 #88-Michael Bent-Alpha NJ-330
23 #2T-Mike Taylor-Milford NJ-315
24 #11-AJ DeSantis-Temple-310
25 #13-James Morris-Riegelsville-305
26 #19-Brad Brightbill-Sinking Springs-300
27 #111-Archie Myers III-Stewartsville NJ-290
28 #29/#2/#7s-Scott Singley-Upper Black Eddy-285
29 #31-Harry Landis-Nazareth-255
30 #76-Bob Lilick-King of Prussia-250
31 #144/#3M-Donnie Miller-Northampton-215
32 #0-Kevin Brady-Millersburg-210
33 #14R-Rick Hendricks-New Ringgold-205
34 #61-Patrick Cozze-Wind Gap-195
35 #57-Ricky Rutt-Phillipsburg NJ-185 (1)
36 #z28-Brian Lilick-King of Prussia-170
37 #64-Kyle Weiss-Hamburg-155
38 #110-Bill Finneran III-Mahanoy City-135
39 #6-Craig Richards-Hamburg-125
40 #113-Jeff Sterner-Bowmanstown-125
41 #R35-Ebby Ridge-Milford NJ-120
42 #5-Mike Finkbinder-115
43 #15J-John Pursell-Riegelsville-110
44 #118-Corey Renninger-Llewellyn110
45 #94-Ricky Beavers-Pittstown NJ-100
46 #75-Blaine Sadler Jr.-Norristown-100
47 #74-Pete Marburger-Reading-95
48 #73-Darrel Herman-Allentown-90
49 #5-Jason Bashore-Bethel-85
50 #77-Tom Miller-Gilbertsville-85
51 #21-Dave Lauver-Palmyra-85
52 #39-Lowell Snyder Jr.-Erwinna-80
53 #41-Brian Puckett-Old Forge-80
54 #67-Matt Krause-New Cumberland-80
55 #5-Jimmy Payne-Lebanon-75
56 #39J-John Stevens-75
57 #301-Jeff McCaughey-Blakeslee-80
58 #5-Troy Loeb-70
59 #48-Jack Brink-Columbia NJ-60
60 #98-Tim Apgar-Milford NJ-50
61 #33-Bobby Yeager-Scranton-50
62 #00-Gary Butler-Phillipsburg NJ-45
63 #28-Tom Solderich-Bethlehem-40
64 #43-Joe Masiado-Easton-40
65 #5-Eric Kauffman-35
66 #5W-Pat Wall-15
67 #71JR-Chris James Jr.-Mohrsville-15
68 #32-Danny Bouc-10
69 #5-Chase Mattioli-10
70 #33Y/#84T-Jamie Yankowski-Throop-10
71 #12V-John Deatrich Jr.-Palo Alto-5
72 #44s-Scott Merritt-Phillipsburg NJ-5
73 #14x-Phil Reader-5
74 #31K-Jimmy Kleedorfer-Nazareth-5

COMPLETE ROADRUNNER POINT STANDINGS AFTER 08/18/2006
1 #66-Kevin Holland-Pine Grove-1660 (2)
2 #45-Ryan Olenick-Forestville-1600 (1)
3 #22-Tom Hablett-Schuylkill Haven-1555 (2)
4 #20-Corey Sechrist-Womelsdorf-1405 (1)
5 #z71-Andy Zvorsky-Orwigsburg-1400 (1)
6 #37-Eric D. Pinkerton-Tower City-1300
7 #11x-Joe Hendricks-Auburn-1280 (1)
8 #19W-Derek Bender-Tremont-1265
9 #00-Tory Jenkins-Schuylkill Haven-1230 (4)
10 #550-Kevin Olenick-Forestville-1200
11 #11-Dan Strenkoski-Llewellyn-1085
12 #712-Jeremy Becker-Pottsville-1080 (1)
13 #101-Gary Renninger-Pottsville-1080
14 #17/#555-Elvin Brennan III-Pottsville-1015
15 #23-Kyle Somers-Schuylkill Haven-845
16 #721-Jason Sherman-Tower City-845 (1)
17 #77-Andrew Fayash III-Mary-D PA-845
18 #17V-Bud Vidal Jr.-Pottsville-790
19 #29B-Ricky Bender-Joliett-695
20 #711-Bobby Ditzler-445
21 #03-Sterling Moyer-Pine Grove-295
22 #11k-Kirby Schlappich-Temple-235 (2)
23 #1-Chris Holland-Pine Grove-195
24 #93-Rob Pyle-Downingtown-105
25 #BIG1-KP Buck-65
26 #1G-Josh Generella-New Ringgold-60
27 #23-Andy Somers-Pottsville-45


COMING EVENTS:
Sunday August 20, 6:30PM – ENDURO RACING, INCLUDING FOUR CYLINDER AND SIX/EIGHT CYLINDER RACES.
Friday August 25, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS. SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS
Friday September 1, Sunday September 3 PIONEER POLE BUILDINGS COALCRACKER CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND.


KEITH HOFFMAN POWERS TO FIRST WIN OF THE SEASON;UMBENHAUER, JENKINS, AND MILLER ARE VICTORIOUS
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – August 18, 2006 – Keith Hoffman of Whitehall PA powered the Dennis “Moose” Eisenhard owned #77 Teo Pro Car to his first 25-lap 358 Modified feature win of the season Friday night at the Big Diamond Raceway. Remarkably, it was Hoffman’s third time in the car. Hoffman, a past three-time track champion, notched his thirty-fourth career win at BDR.

Pepsi/Bob Weaver Chevrolet (Pottsville) presented an action packed four division program of auto racing at the Coal Region based facility. Other winners were: Jeff Strunk (Pepsi Challenge), Mike Miller (ARDC Midgets), Jordan Umbenhauer (Sportsman), and Tory Jenkins (Roadrunners).

The 358 Modified feature found second generation racer Justin Andrews placing his machine on top for the opening green flag. A six car tangle in the second corner brought out the race’s first caution flag with one lap completed. Colt Harris charged into the lead under green conditions. Hoffman, who started fourth, moved into second on lap two and challenged Harris for the lead. Hoffman grabbed the spot at the completion of lap five.

While Hoffman continued to set the pace, Sean Merkel placed his car into the second spot on lap eight. Racing remained green until lap sixteen when the second and final caution period occurred. Hoffman continued to lead with Merkel chasing him down. Terry Meitzler, in the Dennis Bailey-81, aligned himself in third on lap eighteen. Five-time winner, Jeff Strunk, moved past Meitzler for the position on the twenty-second lap.

Hoffman led the remaining moments and visited victory lane to become the ninth different Modified winner of the season. Merkel (Gilbertsville) enjoyed his finest outing of the season with a second place finish. Strunk (Bethel) nailed sown his twelfth top five of the season for third. Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville) entered the front five on lap 20 and ended up in fourth. Meitzler (Kutztown) secured his highest ’06 performance with a fifth.

Rick Laubach (Hellertown) once again sported some new colors on his machine this week as part of a sixth place feature finish. Duane Howard (Oley), twice a feature winner this season, finished seventh ahead of Harris (Gordon), Craig Von Dohren (Oley), Kevin Hirthler (Boyertown).

The Wingless ARDC Midgets pulled a nice field of 27 cars with 24 starting the A-Main. Paul Kline, a former Modified and Sportsman racer at BDR, jumped into the early race lead. Kline, rookie sensation P.J. Gargiulo, and Mike Miller mixed it up in a spirited battle for the first position. On lap seven, the trio battled three wide with Gargiulo grabbing the lead. M. Miller immediately darted his Stealth Chassis #7 into the runner-up spot.

On the tenth lap, Miller pounced into the front spot. Modified stand-out Billy Pauch Jr. followed suit into the second position as Gargiuo’s machine coasted to a stop, bringing out a caution flag. On lap sixteen, Miller drifted north bound in turns three and four which allowed Pauch to temporarily take the lead. Miller quickly gained the spot back. On lap 20, Miller encountered a duplicate drift to the outside and Pauch closed the gap once again. Miller remained the leader, however.

Miller (Reading), a highly successful Micro Sprint racer, enjoyed a one-two sweep of Diamond’s ARDC events. He won an event held earlier in the season. Mike’s daughter, Tracy Miller (Reading) made an exciting last lap photo finish pass by Pauch (Frenchtown NJ) to gain second. Steve Lenig (Selinsgrove) finished fourth ahead of Donnie Trent (Honeybrook) who rebounded from an earlier race accident.

Kline (Reading) held onto sixth ahead of Sammy Hemhauser (East Stroudsburg), Carey Becker (Reading), Randy Monroe (Hampton VA), and Jim Jackson (Sweet Valley).

Second generation racer, Blaine Sadler Jr., led the opening two laps of the 20-lap Sportsman main event. Shawn Hiestand passed Sadler on lap three. Jordan Umbenhauer started tenth and worked into the runner-up position on lap fourteen. Umbenhauer pressured Hiestand from the inside lane for the next number of circuits.

On the eighteenth lap, Umbenhauer darted to the low side of Hiestand in turns one and two, becoming the new race leader. Umbenhauer (Richland) led the remainder of the contest and steered his #19 to career victory number one. Jordan joins his father Tom as a Sportsman feature winner on the all-time career list.

Hiestand (Leesport) started his career at the end of last season and has been a weekly competitor in ’06. He finished in the runner-up spot. Leroy Long (Womelsdorf) drove Umbenhauer’s 2005 ride to a third. Scott Singley (Upper Black Eddy) returned after several weeks away and finished fourth. Tom Brennan (Pottsville) rounded out the top five.

Eric Pinkerton has won Street Stock features in his past career, however, is still searching for a first career triumph in Roadrunners. Pinkerton thirteen of fifteen laps in the Roadrunner A-Main. Tory Jenkins (Schuylkill Haven) started seventh, and grabbed the runner-up position on lap twelve.

Jenkins just edged Pinkerton at the stripe of lap fourteen to become the new race leader. From there, Jenkins throttled his #00 to the winner’s circle. The victory for Jenkins was his third in a row and fourth overall of 2006.

Pinkerton (Tower City) registered his finest finish of the year with a runner-up result. Sophomore driver Ryan Olenick (Forestville) finished in third. Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven) ran second for a while and ended up finishing fourth. Points leader Kevin Holland (Pine Grove) was the fifth place finisher.

This Sunday at 6PM will be the season’s second Enduro. The four and six/eight cylinders will each be contesting in Enduro races. Adult general admission for this event is just $5.

MODIFIED POINTS COULDN’T GET ANY CLOSER: The final points race is this Friday August 25th and it couldn’t get any closer. Duane Howard and Jeff Strunk are tied for first place with a tally of 1595 markers. Gary Wagner Jr. leads the Sportsman points over defending champion Tom Brennan by 45. Kevin Holland shows the way in Roadrunner points by 60 over Ryan Olenick.

FIRST 2006 STARTERS: With the Coalcracker weekend quickly approaching on Sept. 1st and 3rd, new starters continue to visit the pit area. Former track regular, Barry Readinger, made his first ’06 start aboard his self-owned #386. Sportsman racer Freddie Fisher made his ’06 Modified debut aboard a second Sechrist #42F. KP Buck was a new entrant in the Roadrunners driving the Jason Neidlinger owned BIG1.

ARDC SEES RED: Some wild ARDC Midget tumbles took place during the evening. Michele Miller took a wild series of flips in her heat race down the front stretch. Michele was shaken but otherwise okay. She later joined her father in victory lane for the post race festivities. Eric Heydenreich rolled his car in the second heat. Later in the main event, Heydenreich’s car caught fire while racing down the backstretch. Heydenreich was not injured in either incident.

PEPSI CHALLENGE THRILLS THE FANS: Fans were treated to the Pepsi Challenge, a one-on-one single lap race between two drivers. Ray Swinehart won the first seven match races. He was overtaken by Craig Von Dohren, and Jeff Strunk unseated Von Dohren in the final race. A lucky fan won $100 in the process, as the Pepsi Challenge seemed popular with the crowd, which once again was quite large.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY COMPLETE RESULTS
FRIDAY AUGUST 18 2006
358 MODIFIED FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Keith Hoffman, 2) Sean Merkel, 3) Jeff Strunk, 4) Ray Swinehart, 5) Terry Meitzler, 6) Rick Laubach, 7) Duane Howard, 8) Colt Harris, 9) Craig Von Dohren, 10) Kevin Hirthler, 11) Ryan Watt, 12) Billy Pauch Jr., 13) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 14) Doug Manmiller, 15) Jason Hamilton, 16) John Willman, 17) Jeff Sechrist, 18) Justin Andrews, 19) Doug Hendricks, 20) Bill Gensler, 21) Ryan Grim, 22) Amanda Spotts, 23) Ryan Beltz, 24) Barry Readinger, 25) Bobby Gunther-Walsh, 26) Dale Roth. DNQ: Kurt Spotts, Meme DeSantis, Freddie Fisher. HEAT WINNERS: Sean Merkel, Keith Hoffman, Doug Hendricks.

ARDC MIDGET FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Mike Miller, 2) Tracy Miller, 3) Billy Pauch Jr., 4) Steve Lenig, 5) Donnie Trent, 6) Paul Kline, 7) Sammy Hemhauser, 8) Carey Becker, 9) Randy Monroe, 10) Jim Jackson, 11) Lew Blair, 12) Steve Craig, 13) Pete Pavlick, 14) Mike Krause, 15) Tracy Readinger, 16) Robert Goerner, 17) Eric Heydenreich, 18) A.J. Ernesto, 19) Chris Zrinski, 20) Jeff Schell, 21) P.J. Gargiulo, 22) Doug Rose, 23) Andy Martin, 24) Scott Zipp. DNS: Dave Ely, Kathy Kurtz, Ed Stimely Jr., Michele Miller.

SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Jordan Umbenhauer, 2) Shawn Hiestand, 3) Leroy Long, 4) Scott Singley, 5) Tom Brennan, 6) Mike Hughes, 7) Blaine Sadler Jr., 8) Jarrad Miller, 9) Gary Wagner Jr., 10) Patrick Cozze, 11) Rick Hendricks, 12) Jimmy Payne, 13) Louie Mitchalk, 14) Mike Mammana, 15) Andy Miller, 16) Corey Renninger, 17) Ray Woodall Jr., 18) Billy Moyer Jr., 19) Mike Taylor, 20) Kevin Beach, 21) Ebby Ridge, 22) Josh Biever, 23) Rob Gibson, 24) Brad Force, 25) Luke Wagner, 26) Danny Bouc, 27) Kevin Nolf, 28) AJ DeSantis. DNQ: Harry Landis, Jamie Yankowski, Rich Stankiewicz, Donnie Miller, James Morris, Pete Marburger, Kevin Brady, Chris James Jr., Joe Masiado, Michael Bent. HEAT WINNERS: Andy Miller, Tom Brennan, Louie Mitchalk. B-MAIN WINNERS: Gary Wagner Jr., Jimmy Payne.

ROADRUNNER FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Tory Jenkins, 2) Eric Pinkerton, 3) Ryan Olenick, 4) Tom Hablett, 5) Kevin Holland, 6) Andy Zvorsky, 7) Joe Hendricks, 8) Corey Sechrist, 9) Derek Bender, 10) Kevin Olenick, 11) Kirby Schlappich, 12) Chris Holland, 13) KP Buck, 14) Bud Vidal Jr., 15) Ricky Bender, 16) Dan Strenkoski, 17) Kyle Somers, 18) Andrew Fayash III, 19) Gary Renninger, 20) Bobby Ditzler.


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY POINT STANDINGS AFTER 08/11/2006

COMPLETE 358 MODIFIED POINT STANDINGS AFTER 08/11/2006
1 #4-Duane Howard-Oley-1500 (2)
2 #88-Jeff Strunk-Bethel-1480 (5)
3 #6/#14W-Ryan Watt-Boyertown-1210
4 #00-Doug Manmiller-Wyomissing-1145
5 #1c-Craig Von Dohren-Oley-1085 (1)
6 #14-Rick Laubach-Hellertown-965
7 #11D-Billy Pauch Jr.-Frenchtown NJ-945 (1)
8 #117-Kevin Hirthler-Boyertown-930 (1)
9 #11-Meme DeSantis-Temple-915 (2)
10 #64W-John Willman-Birdsboro-875
11 ##33-Ray Swinehart-Bechtelsville-860 (1)
12 #81-Kevin Hartnett-Perkasie-765 (1)
13 #42-Jeff Sechrist-Wernersville-765
14 #16-Jason Hamilton-Erwinna-760
15 #T102-Shawn Fitzpatrick-Pottsville-740
16 #8-Doug Hendricks-Orwigsburg-695
17 #44-Danny Erb-Boyertown-560
18 #W9-Colt Harris-Gordon-555
19 #221-Ryan Beltz-Schwenksville-540
20 #24H-Justin Andrews-Parryville-530
21 #118-Sean Merkel-Gilbertsville-525
22 #123-Roy Wiest-Elizabethville-420
23 #9-Bruce Hirthler-Green Lane-360
24 #114-Carroll Hine III-Boyertown-335
25 #1450-Greg Weiland-Port Carbon-335
26 #1-Bobby Gunther-Walsh-Easton-280
27 #7JR-Jimmy Reppert-Hamburg-275
28 #81-Terry Meitzler-Kutztown-265
29 #77-Frank Cozze-Wind Gap-265
30 #79-Amanda Spotts-Pennsburg-225
31 #2-John Tschudy-Birdsboro-220
32 #77-Doug Hoffman-Allentown-190
33 #71s-Sammy Schaeffer-Shoemakersville-180
34 #77-Keith Hoffman-Whitehall-150
35 #R6-Dale Roth-Schaefferstown-145
36 #27M-Ken Eckert Jr.-New Ringgold-145
37 #178-Neil Huber-Bethel-130
38 #85AM-Jon Kellner-Lansdale-115
39 #357-Billy Pauch-Frenchtown NJ-110
40 #9R-Brian Weaver-Windsor NY-100
41 #29-Kenny Brightbill-Sinking Springs-80
42 #102-Tim Fitzpatrick-Branchdale-80
43 #27-Steve Bottcher-Lehighton-70
44 #10-Rich Wisdo-Elroy-55
45 #70-Kurt Spotts-Pennsburg-50
46 #17-Ryan Grim-Lehighton-45
47 #37x-Tommy Scheetz-Pottstown-45
48 #517-Steve Lozorak III-Spring City-45
49 #25-Ray Deemer-Phillipsburg NJ-40
50 #71s-Andy Burkhart-Temple-35
51 #54W-Chris Warren-Jonestown-25
52 #19B-Brent Boyer-Bloomsburg-25
53 #117x-Marty Shappell-Pottsville-25
54 #83K-Bernie Kelly-Phillipsburg NJ-25
55 M1-Mark Kratz-20
56 #69-Andy Fayash Jr.-Mary-D-20
57 #54-Billy Warren-Jonestown-20
58 #F15-Dale Hartz-Hamburg-15
59 #57-Bill Gensler-Fleetwood-10
60 #35-Chris Gambler-Lehighton-10
61 #3K-Ron Kline-5
62 #19-Tom Umbenhauer-Richland-5
63 #13JR-Lenny Leibold Jr.-Lebanon-5
64 #327-Brad Missimer-Bechtelsville-5
65 #M2-Marc Fehr-5

COMPLETE SPORTSMAN POINT STANDINGS AFTER 08/11/2006
1 #47-Gary Wagner Jr.-Womelsdorf-1400 (2)
2 #26-Tom Brennan-Pottsville-1335 (2)
3 #72-Ray Woodall Jr.-Pen Argyl-1305
4 #99-Craig Whitmoyer-Hamburg-1260 (1)
5 #6JR-Kevin Beach-Llewellyn-1210 (1)
6 #17-Billy Moyer Jr.-Pine Grove-1065
7 #19U-Jordan Umbenhauer-Richland-1050
8 #84-Leroy Long-Womelsdorf-1025
9 #46-Josh Biever-Orwigsburg-990 (2)
10 #17R-Kevin Nolf-Nazareth-920 (1)
11 #917-Jarrad Miller-Barto-900 (1)
12 #221-Rob Gibson-Schuylkill Haven-780 (1)
13 #3-Luke Wagner-Grantville-775 (1)
14 #4-Mike Hughes-Riegelsville-655 (1)
15 #95-Freddie Fisher-Sinking Springs-655
16 #14-Louie Mitchalk-Summit Hill-655 (1)
17 #64-Andy Miller-Schuylkill Haven-640
18 #71-Mike Mammana-Nazareth-605
19 #2-Rich Stankiewicz-Reading-595
20 #56-Shawn Hiestand-Leesport-460
21 #8-Brad Force-Sellersville-395
22 #88-Michael Bent-Alpha NJ-325
23 #11-AJ DeSantis-Temple-305
24 #19-Brad Brightbill-Sinking Springs-300
25 #13-James Morris-Riegelsville-300
26 #111-Archie Myers III-Stewartsville NJ-290
27 #2T-Mike Taylor-Milford NJ-280
28 #31-Harry Landis-Nazareth-255
29 #76-Bob Lilick-King of Prussia-250
30 #144/#3M-Donnie Miller-Northampton-210
31 #0-Kevin Brady-Millersburg-205
32 #57-Ricky Rutt-Phillipsburg NJ-185 (1)
33 #7s/#2/#29-Scott Singley-Upper Black Eddy-175
34 #z28-Brian Lilick-King of Prussia-170
35 #64-Kyle Weiss-Hamburg-155
36 #110-Bill Finneran III-Mahanoy City-135
37 #14R-Rick Hendricks-New Ringgold-130
38 #6-Craig Richards-Hamburg-125
39 #113-Jeff Sterner-Bowmanstown-125
40 #5-Mike Finkbinder-115
41 #61-Patrick Cozze-115
42 #15J-John Pursell-Riegelsville-110
43 #94-Ricky Beavers-Pittstown NJ-100
44 #R35-Ebby Ridge-Milford NJ-95
45 #73-Darrel Herman-Allentown-90
46 #74-Pete Marburger-Reading-90
47 #5-Jason Bashore-Bethel-85
48 #77-Tom Miller-Gilbertsville-85
49 #21-Dave Lauver-Palmyra-85
50 #39-Lowell Snyder Jr.-Erwinna-80
51 #41-Brian Puckett-80
52 #67-Matt Krause-New Cumberland-80
53 #39J-John Stevens-75
54 #301-Jeff McCaughey-Blakeslee-80
55 #5-Troy Loeb-70
56 #48-Jack Brink-Columbia NJ-60
57 #118-Corey Renninger-Llewellyn-55
58 #98-Tim Apgar-Milford NJ-50
59 #33-Bobby Yeager-Scranton-50
60 #00-Gary Butler-45
61 #28-Tom Solderich-Bethlehem-40
62 #43-Joe Masiado-Easton-35
63 #5-Eric Kauffman-35
64 #5W-Pat Wall-15
65 #5-Chase Mattioli-10
66 #71JR-Chris James Jr.-Mohrsville-10
67 #12V-John Deatrich Jr.-Palo Alto-5
68 #44s-Scott Merritt-Phillipsburg NJ-5
69 #5-Jimmy Payne-Lebanon-5
70 #84Y-Jamie Yankowski-5
71 #14x-Phil Reader-5
72 #31K-Jimmy Kleedorfer-5
73 #75-Blaine Sadler Jr-5
74 #32-Danny Bouc-5

COMPLETE ROADRUNNER POINT STANDINGS AFTER 08/11/2006
1 #66-Kevin Holland-Pine Grove-1555 (2)
2 #45-Ryan Olenick-Forestville-1485 (1)
3 #22-Tom Hablett-Schuylkill Haven-1445 (2)
4 #20-Corey Sechrist-Womelsdorf-1315 (1)
5 #z71-Andy Zvorsky-Orwigsburg-1300 (1)
6 #11x-Joe Hendricks-Auburn-1185 (1)
7 #37-Eric D. Pinkerton-Tower City-1180
8 #19W-Derek Bender-Tremont-1180
9 #550-Kevin Olenick-Forestville-1120
10 #00-Tory Jenkins-Schuylkill Haven-1105 (3)
11 #712-Jeremy Becker-Pottsville-1080 (1)
12 #101-Gary Renninger-Pottsville-1045
13 #11-Dan Strenkoski-Llwellyn-1035
14 #17/#555-Elvin Brennan III-Pottsville-1015
15 #23-Kyle Somers-Schuylkill Haven-790
16 #721-Jason Sherman-Tower City-845 (1)
17 #77-Andrew Fayash III-Mary-D PA-805
18 #17V-Bud Vidal Jr.-Pottsville-730
19 #29B-Ricky Bender-Joliett-640
20 #711-Bobby Ditzler-415
21 #03-Sterling Moyer-Pine Grove-295
22 #11k-Kirby Schlappich-Temple-160 (2)
23 #1-Chris Holland-Pine Grove-125
24 #93-Rob Pyle-Downingtown-105
25 #1G-Josh Generella-New Ringgold-60
26 #23-Andy Somers-Pottsville-45


COMING EVENTS:
Friday August 18, 7:30PM – PEPSI CHALLENGE. 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, ARDC MIDGETS.
Sunday August 20, 6:30PM – ENDURO RACING, INCLUDING FOUR CYLINDER AND SIX/EIGHT CYLINDER RACES.
Friday August 25, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS. SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS
Friday September 1, Sunday September 3 PIONEER POLE BUILDINGS COALCRACKER CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND.

PHOTO FINISH, FIRST TIME WINNER, AND TWIN FEATURE SWEEPER HEADLINE TREMENDOUS EVENING AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – August 11, 2006 – Television show writers in Hollywood California couldn’t have scripted what took place Friday night at Big Diamond Raceway. Each of the three divisions created tremendous highlights as part of Ken’s Tire/Hoover Chevrolet night at the races.

The 25-lap 358 Modified feature drew to a conclusion and two machines anxiously steered to the winner’s circle. The end result found Ray Swinehart just edging Shawn Fitzpatrick at the line to capture his first main event win of the season by the slightest of margins. The transponder reading between the front two cars was a mere eight thousandths of a second. It was Swinehart’s sixteenth career victory in the Coal Region.

Kevin Nolf has been racing Sportsman cars over the last few seasons after spending time in the Micro Sprint ranks. During the ’06 season, Nolf has been steadily improving in the Sportsman class, as he recently captured a fifth place finish. This past Friday, however, Nolf was the class of the field as he powered to a first career 20-lap main event victory.

Tory Jenkins is a Roadrunner competitor who has certainly been turning heads during his brief two year career. Last season, after only a few starts, Jenkins powered to the winner’s circle. Jenkins emerged victorious in a main event earlier this season and has followed that accomplishment with a pair of 12-lap feature wins. In the early portion of his career, Jenkins currently holds four career Roadrunner main event triumphs.

Bobby Gunther-Walsh led the opening lap of Friday’s 358 Modified main event. Fitzpatrick quickly took command on lap two. Swinehart followed Fitzpatrick into the runner-up position on the third circuit. Throughout the remainder of the contest Swinehart mirrored Fitzpatrack as the pair toured the three-eighth’s mile clay oval facility.

Rick Laubach drove into the third spot on lap nine and the trio would remain close as each lap concluded. Fitzpatrick held his line while Swinehart looked at various locations to make a pass, and Laubach remained directly behind from the third position. During the closing moments, Swinehart tossed his machine in the high groove in hopes to pass the leader. It literally went right down to the final second of the contest.

On the final lap, Swinehart tossed his self-owned Bicknell-33 to the outside of the speedway in turns three and four. Swinehart just squeezed his machine between the wall and Fitzpatrick as they screamed out of the turn and down the straightaway. At the line, Swinehart and Fitzpatrick battled side-by-side with Swinehart getting the narrow victory, quite possibly one of the closest finishes in Diamond history. Swinehart, a Bechtelsville native, is the eighth different 358 Modified feature winner of ’06.

Fitzpatrick’s bid for a first career win fell just short, as the Pottsville area racer settled for a season’s best of second. Hellertown’s Laubach, sporting new sheet metal and car #2 on his racer this week, ended up third. Five-time feature winner Jeff Strunk (Bethel) grabbed fourth on lap ten and remained there at the finish. Meme DeSantis (Temple) entered the top five on lap fourteen and finished in fifth.

Rounding out the top ten were: Duane Howard (oley), Craig Von Dohren (Oley), Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing), Billy Pauch Jr. (Frenchtown NJ), and Terry Meitzler (Kutztown).

The Sportsman feature began with Rich Stankiewicz pacing the field. Stankiewicz has competed at BDR in several different divisions and has found a home currently in the Sportsman division. He recently switched to a newer car and the results have been positive. Stankiewicz led the opening half (10-laps) of the main event.

Nolf, who started fifth, moved to the inside of Stankiewicz in turn two of the eleventh circuit. Nolf launched his #17R into the lead as they raced down the back stretch. With less than two laps remaining, Nolf had built a full straightaway advantage over second place Stankiewicz. The caution flag, however, was unfurled with just one lap remaining. The last lap restart was not a factor though as Nazareth’s Nolf throttled to the victory, becoming the twelfth different winner this season.

Stankiewicz (Reading) concluded his evening with a season’s best result of second. Andy Miller (Schuylkill Haven) ran within the top three during the entire 20-laps and finished the contest in third. Rookie competitor Kevin Beach (Llewellyn) hauled into fourth on lap five and remained there at the checkers. Jordan Umbenhauer (Richland) grabbed fifth on lap sixteen and captured his sixth overall top five finish.

The second five consisted of: Billy Moyer Jr. (Pine Grove), Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg), Tom Brennan (Pottsville), Gary Wagner Jr. (Womelsdorf), and Jarrad Miller (Barto).

The opening 12-lap Roadrunner feature found Bud Vidal Jr. leading the first three laps. Jenkins (Schuylkill Haven) took command on lap four and never looked back. Kevin Holland (Pine Grove) closed on the leader late in the running but had to settle for second. Corey Sechrist (Womelsdorf) grabbed third on lap eleven. Previous week’s winner Joe Hendricks (Auburn) was fourth ahead of the speedway’s first Roadrunner track champion, Dan Strenkoski (Llewellyn).

Lead changes were plentiful in the second 12-lapper. Sechrist led the first three laps before Ryan Olenick took control. Jenkins passed Olenick in turn one of the sixth lap. Jenkins would lead the remainder of the contest and visited victory circle to celebrate the sweep. Olenick (Forestville) finished second ahead of two-time feature winner Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven). Andy Zvorsky (Orwigsburg) was the lone Monte Carlo in the top five for fourth, and Sechrist rounded out the front five.

FIRST CASH DASH IN SEVERAL YEARS: Ken’s Tire sponsored a pair of heat winner cash dashes. It was the first dash races at BDR in several seasons. Meme DeSantis won the 3-lap 358 Modified fast scramble. The Sportsman race actually saw Rich Stankiewicz get out of shape while leading. Josh Biever of Orwigsburg was left with nowhere to go and contact was made. Biever nursed his sparking #46 to victory lane, however, it proved costly later as Biever retired from the feature race early.

NEW ENTRANTS IN THE FIELD THIS WEEK: Marc Fehr made his first ever BDR start on Friday. Unfortunately it was a short one. Fehr’s machine went wide in turn two of the hot lap session and he spun, making contact with the tire wall. In Sportsman, Corey Renninger made his first start of the season aboard a Sean Merkel-118 car with a Bill Finneran Sportsman engine. Renninger qualified and finished fifteenth in the A-Main. Joe Masiado, a track regular last season, was another first ’06 Sportsman entrant and ended up nineteenth in the final rundown. Second generation racer Blaine Sadler Jr. and Danny Bouc were other first ’06 Sportsman starters.

POINT BATTLES ARE TIGHT: Duane Howard leads the 358 Modified standings (1500) by only 20 markers over Jeff Strunk (1480). Ryan Watt (1210) follows in third ahead of Doug Manmiller (1145) and Craig Von Dohren (1085). Gary Wagner Jr. (1400) continues to lead the Sportsman points as Tom Brennan (1335) only trails by 65 points. Ray Woodall Jr. (1305) is third ahead of Craig Whitmoyer (1260), and Kevin Beach (1210). Kevin Holland (1555) leads Ryan Olenick (1485) in the Roadrunners with Tom Hablett (1445) in third.

ARDC RETURNS TO MINERSVILLE ON AUGUST 18: The ARDC Midget show was rained out on July 21st and they have rescheduled for this upcoming Friday August 18th. The 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners will also be on the card along with the Pepsi Challenge. Gates open at 5PM with warm-ups beginning promptly at 7PM and racing going green at 7:30PM. Adult General Admission remains at just $12 for this four division program.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY COMPLETE RESULTS
FRIDAY AUGUST 11, 2006
358 MODIFIED FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Ray Swinehart, 2) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 3) Rick Laubach, 4) Jeff Strunk, 5) Meme DeSantis, 6) Duane Howard, 7) Craig Von Dohren, 8) Doug Manmiller, 9) Billy Pauch, Jr., 10) Terry Meitzler, 11) Kevin Hirthler, 12) Doug Hendricks, 13) Ryan Watt, 14) Keith Hoffman, 15) Jeff Sechrist, 16) Greg Weiland, 17) Colt Harris, 18) Jason Hamilton, 19) John Willman, 20) Ryan Beltz, 21) Bobby Gunther-Walsh, 22) Sean Merkel, 23) Mark Kratz, 24) Amanda Spotts, 25) Dale Roth, 26) Carroll Hine III. DNQ: Danny Erb, Bruce Hirthler, Chris Gambler, Kurt Spotts, Marty Shappell, Justin Andrews, Andy Burkhart, Roy Wiest, Marc Fehr.

SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Kevin Nolf, 2) Rich Stankiewicz, 3) Andy Miller, 4) Kevin Beach, 5) Jordan Umbenhauer, 6) Billy Moyer Jr., 7) Craig Whitmoyer, 8) Tom Brennan, 9) Gary Wagner Jr., 10) Jarrad Miller, 11) Leroy Long, 12) Rob Gibson, 13) Ray Woodall Jr., 14) Mike Mammana, 15) Corey Renninger, 16) Brad Force, 17) James Morris, 18) Patrick Cozze, 19) Joe Masiado, 20) Rick Hendricks, 21) Harry Landis, 22) Mike Taylor, 23) Josh Biever, 24) Bobby Yeager, 25) Shawn Hiestand. DNQ: Bobby Yeager, John Stevens, Blaine Sadler Jr., Danny Bouc, Chase Mattioli, Freddie Fisher, Louie Mitchalk, Kevin Brady.

FIRST ROADRUNNER FEATURE (12-LAPS): 1) Tory Jenkins, 2) Kevin Holland, 3) Corey Sechrist, 4) Joe Hendricks, 5) Dan Strenkoski, 6) Tom Hablett, 7) Ryan Olenick, 8) Andrew Fayash III, 9) Andy Zvorsky, 10) Kirby Schlappich, 11) Jeremy Becker, 12) Derek Bender, 13) Bud Vidal Jr., 14) Ricky Bender, 15) Gary Renninger, 16) Eric Pinkerton, 17) Kyle Somers, 18) Kevin Olenick, 19) Chris Holland.

SECOND ROADRUNNER FEATURE (12-LAPS): 1) Tory Jenkins, 2) Ryan Olenick, 3) Tom Hablett, 4) Andy Zvorsky, 5) Corey Sechrist, 6) Kevin Holland, 7) Jeremy Becker, 8) Andrew Fayash III, 9) Eric Pinkerton, 10) Kevin Olenick, 11) Kirby Schlappich, 12) Kyle Somers, 13) Gary Renninger, 14) Chris Holland, 15) Joe Hendricks, 16) Dan Strenkoski, 17) Derek Bender, 18) Bud Vidal Jr., 19) Ricky Bender.


Big Diamond Raceway Current Point Standings 8/4/06

COMPLETE 358 MODIFIED POINT STANDINGS AFTER 08/04/2006
1 #4-Duane Howard-Oley-1400 (2)
2 #88-Jeff Strunk-Bethel-1370 (5)
3 #5/#14W-Ryan Watt-Boyertown-1145
4 #00-Doug Manmiller-Wyomissing-1055
5 #1c-Craig Von Dohren-Oley-990 (1)
6 #11D-Billy Pauch Jr.-Frenchtown NJ-860 (1)
7 #117-Kevin Hirthler-Boyertown-855 (1)
8 #14-Rick Laubach-Hellertown-850
9 #64W-John Willman-Birdsboro-840
10 ##11-Meme DeSantis-Temple-810 (2)
11 #81-Kevin Hartnett-Perkasie-765 (1)
12 #33-Ray Swinehart-Bechtelsville-735
13 #16-Jason Hamilton-Erwinna-720
14 #42-Jeff Sechrist-Wernersville-710
15 #8-Doug Hendricks-Orwigsburg-625
16 #T102-Shawn Fitzpatrick-Pottsville-620
17 #44-Danny Erb-Boyertown-555
18 #24H-Justin Andrews-Parryville-525
19 #W9-Colt Harris-Gordon-510
20 #221-Ryan Beltz-Schwenksville-510
21 #118-Sean Merkel-Gilbertsville-505
22 #123-Roy Wiest-Elizabethville-415
23 #9-Bruce Hirthler-Green Lane-355
24 #114-Carroll Hine III-Boyertown-330
25 #1450-Greg Weiland-Port Carbon-285
26 #7JR-Jimmy Reppert-Hamburg-275
27 #77-Frank Cozze-Wind Gap-265
28 #1-Bobby Gunther-Walsh-Easton-255
29 #2-John Tschudy-Birdsboro-220
30 #79-Amanda Spotts-Pennsburg-215
31 #77-Doug Hoffman-Allentown-190
32 #81-Terry Meitzler-Kutztown-185
33 #71s-Sammy Schaeffer-Shoemakersville-180
34 #27M-Ken Eckert Jr.-New Ringgold-145
35 #R6-Dale Roth-Schaefferstown-140
36 #178-Neil Huber-Bethel-130
37 #85AM-Jon Kellner-Lansdale-115
38 #357-Billy Pauch-Frenchtown NJ-110
39 #9R-Brian Weaver-Windsor NY-100
40 #77-Keith Hoffman-Whitehall-90
41 #29-Kenny Brightbill-Sinking Springs-80
42 #102-Tim Fitzpatrick-Branchdale-80
43 #27-Steve Bottcher-Lehighton-70
44 #10-Rich Wisdo-Elroy-55
45 #17-Ryan Grim-Lehighton-45
46 #37x-Tommy Scheetz-Pottstown-45
47 #517-Steve Lozorak III-Spring City-45
48 #70/#79-Kurt Spotts-Pennsburg-45
49 #25-Ray Deemer-Phillipsburg NJ-40
50 #71s-Andy Burkhart-Temple-30
51 #54W-Chris Warren-Jonestown-25
52 #19B-Brent Boyer-Bloomsburg-25
53 #83K-Bernie Kelly-Phillipsburg NJ-25
54 #69-Andy Fayash Jr.-Mary-D-20
55 #117x-Marty Shappell-Pottsville-20
56 #54-Billy Warren-Jonestown-20
57 #F15-Dale Hartz-Hamburg-15
58 #57-Bill Gensler-Fleetwood-10
59 #35-Chris Gambler-5
60 #M1-Mark Kratz-5
61 #3K-Ron Kline-5
62 #19-Tom Umbenhauer-Richland-5
63 #13JR-Lenny Leibold Jr.-Lebanon-5
64 #327-Brad Missimer-Bechtelsville-5

COMPLETE SPORTSMAN POINT STANDINGS AFTER 08/04/2006
1 #47-Gary Wagner Jr.-Womelsdorf-1315 (2)
2 #26-Tom Brennan-Pottsville-1245 (2)
3 #72-Ray Woodall Jr.-Pen Argyl-1240
4 #99-Craig Whitmoyer-Hamburg-1165 (1)
5 #6JR-Kevin Beach-Llewellyn-1100 (1)
6 #46-Josh Biever-Orwigsburg-975 (2)
7 #17-Billy Moyer Jr.-Pine Grove-965
8 #84/#5-Leroy Long-Womelsdorf-950
9 #19-Jordan Umbenhauer-Richland-945
10 #917-Jarrad Miller-Barto-820 (1)
11 #17R-Kevin Nolf-Nazareth-795
12 #3-Luke Wagner-Grantville-775 (1)
13 #221-Rob Gibson-Schuylkill Haven-710 (1)
14 #4-Mike Hughes-Riegelsville-655 (1)
15 #95-Freddie Fisher-Sinking Springs-650
16 #14-Louie Mitchalk-Summit Hill-650 (1)
17 #71-Mike Mammana-Nazareth-545
18 #64-Andy Miller-Schuylkill Haven-525
19 #2-Rich Stankiewicz-Reading-475
20 #56-Shawn Hiestand-Leesport-455
21 #8-Brad Force-Sellersville-345
22 #88-Michael Bent-Alpha NJ-325
23 #11-AJ DeSantis-Temple-305
24 #19-Brad Brightbill-Sinking Springs-300
25 #111-Archie Myers III-Stewartsville NJ-290
26 #2T-Mike Taylor-Milford NJ-260
27 #13-James Morris-Riegelsville-255
28 #76-Bob Lilick-King of Prussia-250
29 #31-Harry Landis-Nazareth-230
30 #144/#3M-Donnie Miller-Northampton-210
31 #0-Kevin Brady-Millersburg-200
32 #57-Ricky Rutt-Phillipsburg NJ-185 (1)
33 #7s/#2/#29-Scott Singley-Upper Black Eddy-175
34 #z28-Brian Lilick-King of Prussia-170
35 #64-Kyle Weiss-Hamburg-155
36 #110-Bill Finneran III-Mahanoy City-135
37 #6-Craig Richards-Hamburg-125
38 #113-Jeff Sterner-Bowmanstown-125
39 #5-Mike Finkbinder-115
40 #15J-John Pursell-Riegelsville-110
41 #94-Ricky Beavers-Pittstown NJ-100
42 #14R-Rick Hendricks-New Ringgold-100
43 #R35-Ebby Ridge-Milford NJ-95
44 #73-Darrel Herman-Allentown-90
45 #74-Pete Marburger-Reading-90
46 #5-Jason Bashore-Bethel-85
47 #77-Tom Miller-Gilbertsville-85
48 #21-Dave Lauver-Palmyra-85
49 #39-Lowell Snyder Jr.-Erwinna-80
50 #41-Brian Puckett-80
51 #67-Matt Krause-New Cumberland-80
52 #301-Jeff McCaughey-Blakeslee-80
53 #61-Patrick Cozze-Wind Gap-75
54 #5-Troy Loeb-70
55 #39J-John Stevens-70
56 #48-Jack Brink-Columbia NJ-60
57 #98-Tim Apgar-Milford NJ-50
58 #00-Gary Butler-45
59 #28-Tom Solderich-Bethlehem-40
60 #5-Eric Kauffman-35
61 #33-Bobby Yeager-35
62 #61-Patrick Cozze-25
63 #5W-Pat Wall-15
64 #71JR-Chris James Jr.-Mohrsville-10
65 #12V-John Deatrich Jr.-Palo Alto-5
66 #44s-Scott Merritt-Phillipsburg NJ-5
67 #5-Chase Mattioli-5
68 #5-Jimmy Payne-Lebanon-5
69 #84Y-Jamie Yankowski-5
70 #14x-Phil Reader-5
71 #31K-Jimmy Kleedorfer-5

COMPLETE ROADRUNNER POINT STANDINGS AFTER 08/04/2006
1 #66-Kevin Holland-Pine Grove-1335 (2)
2 #45-Ryan Olenick-Forestville-1270 (1)
3 #22-Tom Hablett-Schuylkill Haven-1230 (2)
4 #z71-Andy Zvorsky-Orwigsburg-1105 (1)
5 #20-Corey Sechrist-Womelsdorf-1095 (1)
6 #19W-Derek Bender-Tremont-1065
7 #37-Eric D. Pinkerton-Tower City-1045
8 #11x-Joe Hendricks-Auburn-1020 (1)
9 #17/#555-Elvin Brennan III-Pottsville-1015
10 #550-Kevin Olenick-Forestville-1000
11 #101-Gary Renninger-Pottsville-925
12 #712-Jeremy Becker-Pottsville-910 (1)
13 #11-Dan Strenkoski-Llewellyn-880
14 #00-Tory Jenkins-Schuylkill Haven-855 (1)
15 #721-Jason Sherman-Tower City-845 (1)
16 #23-Kyle Somers-Schuylkill Haven-685
17 #17V-Bud Vidal Jr.-Pottsville-625
18 #77-Andrew Fayash III-Mary-D-625
19 #29B-Ricky Bender-Joliett-575
20 #711-Bobby Ditzler-415
21 #03-Sterling Moyer-Pine Grove-295
22 #93-Rob Pyle-Downingtown-105
23 #1G-Josh Generella-New Ringgold-60
24 #23-Andy Somers-Pottsville-45
25 #1-Chris Holland-Pine Grove-30
26 #11K-Kirby Schlappich-Temple-5 (2)


COMING EVENTS:
Friday August 11, 7:30PM – KEN’S TIRE NIGHT. 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS (TWIN 12’S)
Friday August 18, 7:30PM – PEPSI CHALLENGE. 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, ARDC MIDGETS.
Sunday August 20, 6:30PM – ENDURO RACING, INCLUDING FOUR CYLINDER AND SIX/EIGHT CYLINDER RACES.
Friday August 25, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS. SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS
Friday September 1, Sunday September 3 PIONEER POLE BUILDINGS COALCRACKER CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND.


CRAIG VON DOHREN GRABS FIRST WIN OF THE SEASON AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – August 4, 2006 – The wait is over for Craig Von Dohren. The accomplished 358 Modified racer from Oley captured his first overall triumph of the season in Friday’s 25-lap main event held at the Big Diamond Raceway. It was Von Dohren’s 57th career Diamond score, which ranks first on the speedway’s all-time winner’s list.

Bashore Trucking and Kauffman’s BBQ Chicken (each based out of Bethel PA) presented an action packed evening of racing excitement at the three-eighth’s mile clay oval. Other victorious drivers included: Josh Biever and Rob Gibson (Sportsman), Joe Hendricks (Roadrunners) and John Stoll Jr. (Four Cylinders).

The headlining 358 Modified feature began in rough fashion as a pair of red flag periods took place during the opening two circuits. In the opening red occurance, several cars made contact in turn two and Terry Meitzler glanced atop of the inside wall barrier. Meitzler’s machine eventually tipped over and rolled onto it’s roof. No injuries were reported in the opening accident.

The second crash found Shawn Fitzpatrick getting out of shape and four cars were left with no place to scramble. Five-time feature winner, Jeff Strunk made hard contact and his machine suffered heavy front-end damage. Ray Swinehart was also involved and required to wreckers to remove his machine from the scene. The ambulance was called for Fitzpatrick who was shaken up after the hard impact. Fitzpatrick was treated and okay.

First year competitor, Carroll Hine III, placed the #114 in front during the event’s early moments. Eighth place starter Kevin Hirthler hunted down the leader and passed him via the outside groove of lap seven. Von Dohren, who started thirteenth, out-muscled Hine for the runner-up spot on lap fourteen. On a lap fifteen restart, the front duo battled for the lead and Von Dohren edged Hirthler at the stripe to complete the circuit.

Von Dohren, driving Mike Harvey’s #1c, stretched his lead to nearly a full straightaway advantage by race’s end. Von Dohren placed his machine in victory circle and continues to rewrite the history books. This marks the fifteenth consecutive season and twenty-third overall that Von Dohren has won a Big Diamond feature. Each of those accomplishments are track records.

Hirthler (Boyertown) has now finished no worse than second in the last three races as he recorded a runner-up finish. Meme DeSantis (Temple) rebounded from a wild series of flips the previous Friday and finished third in a back-up Eastern Rigging-11 machine. Jason Hamilton (Erwinna) passed Hine (Boyertown) on the race’s final lap to grab a fourth place finish. Hine’s fifth was a career best. Rounding out the top ten were: Sean Merkel, Doug Manmiller, Keith Hoffman (first start aboard the Eisenhard-77), John Willman, and Doug Hendricks.

Josh Biever (Orwigsburg) passed Kevin Nolf (Nazareth) on lap seven of the held-over 20-lap Sportsman feature. This event was originally scheduled for NAPA Auto Parts Stores Night (July 21) and was cut short due to a thunderstorm. Biever remained in front to capture his second main event win of the season.

Tom Brennan (Pottsville) finished second ahead of Gary Wagner Jr. (Womelsdorf), Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg) and Nolf. The second five consisted of: Ray Woodall Jr., Bob Lilick, Ebby Ridge, Mike Bashore, and Kevin Beach.

Rookie AJ DeSantis led the opening tour of the regularly scheduled 20-lap A-main. His machine erupted smoke on lap two which relinquished the lead to Harry Landis. Rob Gibson (Schuylkill Haven) was next in line to grab the lead on the third lap. Gibson, in his third season of Sportsman competition, never looked back and captured his first victory of the season.

Leroy Long (Womelsdorf) piloted the Bashore Sportsman rental car to a runner-up finish, after starting from eighth. Billy Moyer Jr. (Pine Grove) ran top five throughout the entire distance and finished third. Sportsman rookie Kevin Beach (Llewellyn) ended up fourth and former two-time track champion Craig Whitmoyer was fifth.

Ricky Bender (Jolliet) was setting a blistering pace in the 15-lap Roadrunner feature. Bender led the opening eleven circuits of the main event. Joe Hendricks (Auburn) started ninth and moved in the runner-up position on lap seven. Hendricks powered to the inside of Bender in turns one and two of lap twelve, and grabbed the lead as they raced down the backstretch.

Hendricks earned his first feature win of the season and now joins his older brothers Rick and Doug on the all-time Diamond Roadrunner winner’s list. Andy Zvorsky (Orwigsburg) made a late race pass to gain second at the finish ahead of sophomore racer Ryan Olenick (Forestville). Bender settled for a season’s best of fourth and Tory Jenkins (Schuylkill Haven) likewise made some late race maneuvers into the fifth position.

John Stoll Jr., an accomplished racer in Central PA, claimed a hard fought victory in the 15-lap Four Cylinder feature event. Stoll started fourth and passed Grant Adams on lap seven for the lead. Stoll and Ed Hollenbach battled feverishly for the number one position. Stoll held on to capture the close victory with Hollenbach in his rear view. Ralph Morgan Jr. finished third ahead of Leroy Long, and Bryan Michael.

A special thanks must be extended to all contributing fans, drivers, and teams. A collection was held for injured driver Kenny Gilmore, a past speedway regular. Kenny suffered a broken hip in an automobile accident last weekend. The collection raised $1100 for Kenny. A huge card was also signed and will be presented to Kenny.

The month of August continues to intensify heat on the Big Diamond Raceway schedule. This upcoming Friday evening, August 11, the Roadrunners will stage war in twin 12-lap feature events. The 358 Modifieds and Sportsman are standing tall on the card as well. Gates open at 5PM with warm-ups beginning promptly at 7PM. The first heat will gets the green light at 7:30PM. It will be Ken’s Tire Night.

-Big Diamond Raceway Friday August 4 2006 Full Results-

358 MODIFIED FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Craig Von Dohren, 2) Kevin Hirthler, 3) Meme DeSantis, 4) Jason Hamilton, 5) Carroll Hine III, 6) Sean Merkel, 7) Doug Manmiller, 8) Keith Hoffman, 9) John Willman, 10) Doug Hendricks, 11) Colt Harris, 12) Billy Pauch Jr., 13) Bruce Hirthler, 14) Justin Andrews, 15) Roy Wiest, 16) Ryan Beltz, 17) Dale Roth, 18) Duane Howard, 19) Jeff Sechrist, 20) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 21) Jeff Strunk, 22) Ryan Watt, 23) Ray Swinehart, 24) Terry Meitzler.
Did Not Qualify: Bobby Gunther-Walsh, Kurt Spotts, Bill Gensler, Rick Laubach.
Heat Winners: Doug Manmiller, Jeff Sechrist, Duane Howard.
B-Main Winner: Ryan Watt

SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) 1) Rob Gibson, 2) Leroy Long, 3) Billy Moyer Jr., 4) Kevin Beach, 5) Craig Whitmoyer, 6) Gary Wagner Jr., 7) Ray Woodall Jr., 8) Jarrad Miller, 9) Tom Brennan, 10) Kevin Nolf, 11) Rich Stankiewicz, 12) Shawn Hiestand, 13) Mike Mammana, 14) Brian Lilick, 15) Mike Taylor, 16) Josh Biever, 17) Bob Lilick, 18) Michael Bent, 19) Louie Mitchalk, 20) Kevin Brady, 21) Harry Landis, 22) Jordan Umbenhauer, 23) AJ DeSantis, 24) Andy Miller.
Did Not Qualify: Jeff Sterner, Patrick Cozze, Ebby Ridge, Freddie Fisher, Donnie Miller, Ricky Rutt, Luke Wagner.
Heat Winners:Brian Lilick, Tom Brennan, Rob Gibson.
B-Main Winner: Josh Biever.

ROADRUNNER FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Joe Hendricks, 2) Andy Zvorsky, 3) Ryan Olenick, 4) Ricky Bender, 5) Tory Jenkins, 6) Kevin Olenick, 7) Kevin Holland, 8) Jeremy Becker, 9) Kyle Somers, 10) Andrew Fayash III, 11) Tom Hablett, 12) Eric Pinkerton, 13) Rob Pyle, 14) Derek Bender, 15) Bud Vidal Jr., 16) Bob Ditzler, 17) Elvin Brennan III, 18) Corey Sechrist, 19) Dan Strenkoski, 20) Chris Holland, 21) Gary Renninger.
Heat Winners: Ricky Bender, Ryan Olenick.

FOUR CYLINDERS FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) John Stoll Jr., 2) Ed Hollenbach, 3) Ralph Morgan Jr., 4) Leroy Long, 5) Bryan Michael, 6) Brian Wentzel, 7) George Howe, 8) Wayne Kocher, 9) Bobby Kupp, 10) Gary Schoch, 11) Mike Spinks, 12) Mark Lenker, 13) Carl McCarty, 14) Ken Bernhardt, 15) Grant Adams, 16) Dustin Hollinger, 17) Eric Hollenbach, 18) Dennis Christ Jr., 19) Troy Hostetter, 20) Kyle Levengood, 21) Butch Helsel. DNS: Ron Garlock, Ed Williamson, Dale Kreiser.
Heat Winners: Eric Hollenbach, Grant Adams.


COMING EVENTS:
Tuesday August 1, 7:30PM – OPEN PRACTICE. PITS-$20. STANDS-FREE.
Friday August 4, 7:30PM – MAKE-UP CONSI AND 20-LAP FEATURE FOR SPORTSMAN PLUS FULL PROGRAM OF 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, FOUR CYLINDERS


THE MOMENT OF TRUTH ARRIVES FOR KEVIN HIRTHLER; STRUNK IN STRIDE FOR FIFTH WIN OF SEASON AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – July 28, 2006 – After this past Friday evening, Kevin Hirthler has added his name to the extensive list of all-time 358 Modified feature event winners at Big Diamond Raceway. The eleventh year driver out of Boyertown picked up his first career victory behind the wheel of his Hirthler/Saracino Racing #117. Hirthler emerged victorious in a held-over 25-lap feature event which was originally rained-out on July 21st. Hirthler is the 89th different Modified winner in the history of BDR.

Jeff Strunk throttled to his fifth feature win of the season in the regularly scheduled 25-lap main event. Strunk, driving Will Swoyer’s #88 Bicknell, has been on a hot streak this year on the PA speedways. Strunk’s win coupled with a rough event for rival Duane Howard allowed Strunk to close in the point’s race by a mere 15 markers behind Howard. Strunk, out of Bethel, now holds 30 career BDR feature wins.

Schaeffer’s Harley Davidson/Buell sponsored the evening’s festivities as a grand total of six feature events were contested. Even Mother Nature tried her best to become a factor. A pair of earlier thunderstorms left the track prep crew very busy. The speedway was race ready by 8:20PM. Other winners included: Ricky Rutt of Phillipsburg NJ (Sportsman), Corey Sechrist of Womelsdorf and Tom Hablett of Schuylkill Haven (Roadrunners), and Jon Haegele (600 Modifieds).

Twenty-nine cars started the opening Modified main. Yellow seemed to be the most popular shade in this event as a total of six caution periods took place during the opening seven laps. The track’s all-time feature winner, Craig Von Dohren, was involved in a second corner accident on lap two. Von Dohren’s #1c Harvey Motorsports car was removed by a pair of wreckers, and he was forced to call it an evening.

First year racer Carroll Hine led the first two circuits. Local racing talent Shawn Fitzpatrick of Pottsville stormed into the lead on lap three. Hirthler, who is actually competing in his first full year of Diamond competition, started from sixth. Hirthler asserted himself into the runner-up position behind Fitzpatrick on the fifth circuit.By the event’s half-way juncture, Fitzpatrick continued to show the way over Hirthler, Jeff Sechrist, Duane Howard, and Meme DeSantis, who was trying to find some power up on the high groove.

The ninth and final caution made its presence with thirteen laps on the counter. The ensuing restart found DeSantis catching a rut in the second corner. Meme’s machine proceeded to roll over a few times through the turn, which triggered a red flag. DeSantis was not injured in the nasty accident, however, he was eliminated from competition for the evening.

Fitzpatrick and Hirthler staged war for the lead under green conditions. Hirthler moved to the inside of Fitzpatrick on lap 16 to become the new race leader. On the same lap, Howard passed Sechrist for third and then raced by Fitzpatrick for second on the 19th circuit. After making contact with competition earlier, Fitzpatrick’s machine eventually slowed for the pits with only five laps remaining.

Hirthler competed flawlessly over the final five laps and steered to his first victory of 2006 behind the wheel of his Lombardo powered machine. Howard of Oley drove Chad Sinon’s #4 to a runner-up finish while fifteenth place starter Jeff Strunk finished third. Sechrist, in a car he recently purchased from Dwayne Guistwite, secured a fourth place finish while John Willman collected his first top five of the year for fifth.

Sportsman graduate Greg Weiland of Port Carbon led the opening circuit of the regularly scheduled main event. Fitzpatrick started fourth and passed Weiland for the lead on lap two. Eighth place starter Hithler leaped into the runner-up spot on the second lap and he was abruptly followed by twelfth place starter Strunk.

Strunk powered to the inside of Hirthler for second on lap four. Fitzpatrick and Strunk raced side-by-side in the corners of lap eight, with Strunk looking low. Fitzptrick remained in front to score the eighth circuit. On a lap nine restart, Fitzpatrick chose the outside for his starting lane, and Strunk battled from the inside. Strunk grabbed the lead as the pair crossed the stripe to complete lap nine. Another tough event took place for Fitzptrick as he retreated pitside on the tenth lap.

Strunk remained in front with Hirthler in pursuit. Howard, who started thirteenth, was racing third until contact found him falling back in the running order. When the caution flag waved on lap fourteen, Howard headed to the pits with a flat left front tire. Strunk and Hirthler remained in front under green conditions. Jon Kellner of Lansdale, making his first ’06 Diamond start aboard the Cary Duncan owned machine, started sixteenth and made his way into third. Terry Meitzler (Kutztown), in only his second BDR start behind the wheel of Dennis Bailey’s #81, was racing fourth.

Strunk placed some space and a pair of lapped cars between himself and Hirthler. Strunk raced to his fifth feature win of the season with Hirthler enjoying his finest Diamond hours for a fine runner-up finish. Kellner and Meitzler finished third and fourth respectively. Third generation racer Billy Pauch Jr. of Frenchtown NJ rounded out the front finishing five.

Ricky Rutt has returned to weekly BDR racing in 2006, and he wired the field to win Friday’s 20-lap main event. Rutt, who captured his first and only career BDR win on June 30 2000, returned to the winner’s circle for his first Diamond win in four years. Rutt became the tenth different Sportsman feature winner this season.

Defending track champion, Tom Brennan of Pottsville, started from thirteenth and gained second on the on the nineteenth lap via the inside groove. Brennan pulled close to the Rutt as the duo raced out of turn four to grab the checkered flag. Second year racer Shawn Hiestand (Leesport) grabbed a career best of third. Bobby Lilick (King of Prussia) made only his second straight start of the season and raced from fifteenth to fourth. Points leader Gary Wagner Jr. (Womelsdorf) annexed his sixth top five finish of fifth.

Bud Vidal Jr. (Pottsville) led the opening four laps of the held-over 15-lap Roadrunner main event, which was rained-out on July 21. Vidal and Eric Pinkerton made contact on the backstretch, which reshuffled the running order. Corey Sechrist, from ninth, darted into the lead when the front runners made impact.

Sechrist, a second year Roadrunner racer, collected his first career victory in the Roadrunner division, becoming the ninth different winner of 2006. Rookie competitor Kyle Somers (Schuylkill Haven) continues to turn heads as he nailed down a runner-up finish. Ryan Olenick (Forestville) finished third ahead of points leader Kevin Holland (Pine Grove) and Elvin Brennan III (Pottsville).

Vidal led the first three laps of the second Roadrunner 15-lapper until Tom Hablett, from tenth, took command. Hablett (Schuylkill Haven) throttled to his second win of the season and seventh career BDR triumph. Holland started sixteenth and moved into the runner-up spot on lap eleven. Holland remained there at the finish. Earlier winner Sechrist finished third ahead of second year racer Tory Jenkins (Schuylkill Haven) and Somers.

The 600 Modifieds made their third start of the BDR season. The red flag was displayed on lap one of the 15-lap main event. Rookie Travis Halabura flipped his machine. Travis was not injured in the accident. Kyle Gardner led for six laps until Jon Haegele placed the Doug Borger owned machine in front on a lap seven restart. Haegele, a Sportsman racer in New Jersey, held on to take the victory over Gardner, Kevin Gruber, Rich McGeady, and two-time Diamond winner Tom Martocci.

This Tuesday evening August 1, Big Diamond will present an open practice session. The test and tune will begin at 7:30PM. Pit admission is $20 and the grandstands are free to the public. On Friday August 4, the Sportsman will compete in their rain rescheduled 20-lap feature along with a full program of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners and the return of the Four Cylinders. Gates open at 5PM with warm-ups at 7PM.

Big Diamond Raceway – Full Results – Friday July 28, 2006
FIRST 358 MODIFIED FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Kevin Hirthler, 2) Duane Howard, 3) Jeff Strunk, 4) Jef Sechrist, 5) John Willman, 6) Ryan Watt, 7) Carroll Hine III, 8) Bobby Gunther-Walsh, 9) Doug Manmiller, 10) Bruce Hirthler, 11) Justin Andrews, 12) Amanda Spotts, 13) Terry Meitzler, 14) Jimmy Reppert, 15) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 16) Meme DeSantis, 17) Rick Laubach, 18) Colt Harris, 19) Roy Wiest, 20) Jason Hamilton, 21) Billy Pauch Jr., 22) Ray Swinehart, 23) Kurt Spotts, 24) Ken Eckert Jr., 25) Sean Merkel, 26) Doug Hendricks, 27) Danny Erb, 28) Craig Von Dohren, 29) Ryan Beltz.

SECOND 358 MODIFIED FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Jeff Strunk, 2) Kevin Hirthler, 3) Jon Kellner, 4) Terry Meitzler, 5) Billy Pauch Jr., 6) Sean Merkel, 7) Danny Erb, 8) Jason Hamilton, 9) Ryan Watt, 10) Bruce Hirthler, 11) Duane Howard, 12) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 13) Rick Laubach, 14) Jimmy Reppert, 15) Carroll Hine III, 16) Justin Andrews, 17) Amanda Spotts, 18) Doug Hendricks, 19) Ray Swinehart, 20) Jeff Sechrist, 21) Bobby Gunther-Walsh, 22) John Tschudy, 23) Greg Weiland, 24) Doug Manmiller, 25) Brad Missimer, 26) John Willman. DNQ: Roy Wiest, Ryan Beltz, Kurt Spotts, Ken Eckert Jr., Craig Von Dohren, Meme DeSantis, Colt Harris.

SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Ricky Rutt, 2) Tom Brennan, 3) Shawn Hiestand, 4) Bobby Lilick, 5) Gary Wagner Jr., 6) Leroy Long, 7) Jordan Umbenhauer, 8) Craig Whitmoyer, 9) Josh Biever, 10) Billy Moyer Jr., 11) Louie Mitchalk, 12) Ray Woodall Jr., 13) Jarrad Miller, 14) Kevin Beach Jr., 15) Mike Taylor, 16) Brian Lilick, 17) Kevin Nolf, 18) Donnie Miller, 19) Mike Mammana, 20) Harry Landis, 21) Kevin Brady, 22) Freddie Fisher, 23) Rob Gibson, 24) AJ DeSantis. DNQ: Patrick Cozze, Jimmy Payne, Bill Finneran III, Jeff Sterner, John Stevens, Jeff McCaughey.

FIRST ROADRUNNER FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Corey Sechrist, 2) Kyle Somers, 3) Ryan Oleenick, 4) Kevin Holland, 5) Elvin Brennan III, 6) Andy Zvorsky, 7) Tom Hablett, 8) Tory Jenkins, 9) Bud Vidal Jr., 10) Joe Hendricks, 11) Kevin Olenick, 12) Gary Renninger, 13) Derek Bender, 14) Jeremy Becker, 15) Eric Pinkerton, 16) Bobby Ditzler, 17) Dan Strenkoski, 18) Andrew Fayash III, 19) Ricky Bender.

SECOND ROADRUNNER FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Tom Hablett, 2) Kevin Holland, 3) Corey Sechrist, 4) Tory Jenkins, 5) Kyle Somers, 6) Andy Zvorsky, 7) Ryan Olenick, 8) Kevin Olenick, 9) Eric Pinkerton, 10) Joe Hendricks, 11) Elvin Brennan III, 12) Andrew Fayash III, 13) Bud Vidal Jr., 14) Gary Renninger, 15) Bobby Ditzler, 16) Derek Bender, 17) Ricky Bender, 18) Dan Strenkoski, 19) Jeremy Becker.

600 MODIFIED FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Jon Haegele, 2) Kyle Gardner, 3) Kevin Gruber, 4) Rich McGeady, 5) Tom Martocci, 6) Dylan Cisney, 7) Chad Behler, 8) Bryan Mady, 9) Gary Suchy, 10) Dave Baldwin Sr., 11) Kurt Amey, 12) Nick Mady, 13) Bucky Buczofusca, 14) Craig Beringer, 15) Travis Halabura. DNS: Mike Keppler.


COMING EVENTS:
Friday July 28, 7:30PM – SCHAEFFER’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON/BUELL NIGHT…MAKE-UP CONSI AND 25-LAP 358 MODIFIED FEATURE, 15-LAP ROADRUNNER FEATURE PLUS FULL PROGRAM OF 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, AND 600 MODIFIEDS.
Tuesday August 1, 7:30PM – OPEN PRACTICE. PITS-$20. STANDS-FREE.
Friday August 4, 7:30PM – MAKE-UP CONSI AND 20-LAP FEATURE FOR SPORTSMAN PLUS FULL PROGRAM OF 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, FOUR CYLINDERS

ALAN JOHNSON AND KYLE WEISS SCORE ROC VICTORIES TUESDAY NIGHT AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – July 25, 2006 – The Race of Champions Dirt South Tour visited the Big Diamond Raceway for the second time this season on Tuesday evening. Alan Johnson of Phelps NY scored his fourth overall feature victory in the past seven days by winning the 75-lap Big Block Modified main event. Kyle Weiss of Hamburg PA, a regular on the RoC tour, returned to his familiar stomping grounds at BDR and won the 40-lap Sportsman feature contest.

Ebersole Excavating Inc. and X/S Waste Transport sponsored the evening’s festivities. Johnson collected the $4000 top prize in the RoC Modified main, while Weiss earned the $1000 paycheck for his RoC Sportsman accomplishment.

Johnson has only made a handful of BDR appearances during his tremendous racing career, but has quickly adjusted to the facility. Johnson began this victory quest from the twelfth starting position. He advanced into the top five by the ninth lap, stormed into fourth on lap fifteen, raced to third on the seventeenth lap, and seized command of the runner-up spot on the eighteenth tour. Johnson utilized the inside groove for each of these passing attempts.

Craig Von Dohren, the all-time feature winner at BDR, was busy dominating the main event. Von Dohren, driving Chad Sinon’s #1c, started outside pole and immediately grabbed the lead from the opening green. Von Dohren found success on the outer groove and used that lane on each restart. When the caution flag unfurled with eighteen laps on the board, the Von Dohren/Johnson chess match was about to commence. Von Dohren once again chose the outside lane for a restart, and Johnson was content with the inside lane, where had also competed strongly.

The pair battled on lap nineteen with Johnson placing his #14J in front at the completion of the circuit. Johnson pulled away from Von Dohren, however, a couple of restarts placed Craig alongside of the New York State racer. Von Dohren raced side-by-side with Johnson on a couple of the double file restarts through turns one and two, however, Johnson remained in control. When restarts turned to single file, Johnson remained the leader on each attempt.

With twenty laps remaining, Johnson began to negotiate lapped traffic. Johnson experienced little trouble through the back markers, and eventually built a full straightaway advantage on Von Dohren as the race drew to its conclusion. Johnson drove the Native Poker.com Bicknell-14J to a convincing victory, his third overall on the RoC tour this season.

Separated by some space and a lapped car, Von Dohren cruised across the line behind Johnson to grab a runner-up finish. Von Dohren of Oley was driving a Small Block powered car and he earned the $500 bonus for being the first legal SBM past the start/finish line.

Jimmy Horton of Neshanic Station NJ would start and finish from third. Horton had fallen to fifth in the early going but launched back into the third position by lap nineteen. Horton later swapped the third spot with Duane Howard and regained control by lap 44. From there it was smooth sailing for Horton as he cruised to a third.

Howard, an Oley area racer who is the current 358 Modified points leader at BDR, started from the pole position in Chad Sinon’s #4. Howard ran within the front four during the entire 75-laps and closed out a successful evening with a fourth place finish. Rick Laubach, another Friday Night Diamond regular, piloted car #25 for this event. Laubach of Hellertown started fifteenth and worked into the top five on lap 25. He held on to finish fifth.

Doug Manmiller of Wyomissing and Billy Pauch of Frenchtown NJ were the final two cars to finish on the lead lap as they crossed the line for sixth and seventh respectively. Ryan Watt of Boyertown drove the BPG Racing-14W to an eighth place finisher while Joey Grammes of Kunkletown and Steve Bottcher of Lehighton (who was racing fifth until lap 25 for a pitstop) rounded out the top ten.

Jeff Strunk, a four-time winner in BDR’s 358 Modified division this year was on hand driving the Glen Hyneman-126. Strunk started ninth and had taken control of third by lap sixteen. During a lap 18 caution, however, Strunk pulled to the infield heading out of turn four. Power Steering Fluid had sprayed onto Strunk’s legs and the ambulance was called for assistance. Strunk was treated in the pit area.

Weekly Friday night regular Colt Harris was also enjoying a fine early race performance. Harris began from the sixth position. He raced in the top ten for a while and held his ground with the RoC squad. Unfortunately the #W9 started shooting sparks through the air by lap 20, and Harris was eventually forced pitside.

In the 40-lap Sportsman main, it was indeed a homecoming of sorts for Kyle Weiss. The veteran racer has won features in 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Street Stocks, and Roadrunners over the years at BDR. The RoC Sportsman event found Weiss reporting back for duty at a speedway in which he has achieved much success.

New Jersey’s John McClelland led the opening sixteen circuits of the contest. Weiss started from eighth and grabbed the runner-up spot on lap five. Weiss traced the leader and passed him via the inside lane of the seventeenth lap. Weiss had built a full straight advantage by lap 31. After a caution, Weiss still managed to put comfortable space between himself and the competition.

At the checkers, Weiss grabbed the flag first by about a half straight. It was Weiss’ second career BDR Sportsman feature win. Ironically the last one occurred nearly one year ago on July 29.

Danny Creeden of Middletown NY started from eleventh. Creeden grabbed second on lap 31 and remained there at the finish. McClelland enjoyed a strong evening with a hard fought third place finish. BDR track regulars, Craig Whitmoyer of Hamburg and Luke Wagner of Grantville, rounded out the top five.

This Friday night, July 28, is Schaeffer’s Harley Davidson/Buell Night. The 358 Modifieds will be making up their consi and feature from this past Friday evening’s rain-out. The Roadrunners are also running their rain-out make-up feature. A full four division program will follow of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and 600 Modifieds. Gates open at 5PM with warm-ups at 7PM and heats going green at 7:30PM.

7/25/2006 – Big Diamond Raceway Results…
RACE OF CHAMPIONS DIRT SOUTH TOUR
BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS
FEATURE (75-LAPS): 1) Alan Johnson, 2) Craig Von Dohren, 3) Jimmy Horton, 4) Duane Howard, 5) Rick Laubach, 6) Doug Manmiller, 7) Billy Pauch, 8) Ryan Watt, 9) Joey Grammes, 10) Steve Bottcher, 11) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 12) Brian Weaver, 13) Jimmy Reppert, 14) Rich Scagliotta, 15) J.R. Crouse, 16) Bobby Trapper, 17) Doug Rose, 18) Frank Cozze, 19) Meme DeSantis, 20) Rich Rutski, 21) Billy Pauch Jr., 22) Colt Harris, 23) Shawn Reimert, 24) Jeff Strunk, 25) Ray Swinehart, 26) Jeff Sechrist, 27) Jeff Ebersole.
Did Not Qualify: John Willman, Vince Gagliardo, Sean Merkel, Doug Hendricks, Jason Hamilton, Ryan Grim, Ricky Yetter.
Heat Winners: Steve Bottcher, Jimmy Horton, Jeff Strunk, Duane Howard.
B-Main Winners: Doug Manmiller, Ray Swinehart.

RACE OF CHAMPIONS DIRT SOUTH TOUR
SPORTSMAN
FEATURE (40-LAPS): 1) Kyle Weiss, 2) Danny Creeden, 3) John McClelland, 4) Craig Whitmoyer, 5) Luke Wagner, 6) Justin Holland, 7) Brad Grim, 8) Jeff Sechrist, 9) Billy Tanner, 10) Willie Osmun, 11) Alex Konpka, 12) Art Liedl, 13) Andy Miller, 14) Erik Holmgren, 15) Shawn Heistand, 16) Mike Lyons, 17) Rob Gibson, 18) Jamie Yankowski, 19) Jordan Umbenahuer, 20) Andy Fayash Jr., 21) Mike Lartz, 22) Leroy Long.
Heat Winners: Kyle Weiss, Jordan Umbenhauer, John McClelland.


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY SET TO HOST ROC SOUTHERN EVENT TOMORROW EVENING JULY 25

After a weekend of rain outs Northeast race fans can hopefully look for a great night out on Tuesday July 25 as the ROC Dirt Modified Tour invades Big Diamond Raceway in Minersville,Pa for the third event of the Southern region.

The event will be presented by Ebersole Excavating Inc. and as an added bonus to the racers X/S Waste Transport of Elizabethtown, Pa be awarding $50 to each Modified heat race winner on Tuesday evening. "We are excited to be a part of the ROC event at Big Diamond and wanted to do something special for these drivers that win the highly contested heat races". commented business owner Jeff Ebersole.

The ROC modifieds will compete in a 75 lap eventl paying the winner $4000 with a $500 bonus for the highest finishing small block. The event will pay a minimum of $200 to take the green. All cars will draw for qualifying positions in their heat races. The top cars in the heats will then redraw for starting positions in the feature event. ROC rules will be in effect.

The ROC sportsman portion of the show will consist of qualifying heats and a 40 lap feature event paying the winner $1000. ROC series rules will be in effect. All cars will draw for their starting positions in their heat races with the top finishers redrawing for the feature event.

Grandstand admission for the show is: $20 (Adults); $18 (Students 11-17 years old and Seniors over 60). Kids 10 and under are free.

Pit admission is $25. All competitors must register with RoC officials in order to participate. Entry forms are on the RoC Dirt website (www.rocdirt.com) and will be available at the track on race day.

Gates open at 5 p.m., with hot laps at 7 p.m. and racing at 7:30 p.m.

Big Diamond Raceway is located off I-81 Exit 35 (Heading South) or Exit 32 (Heading North) in Minersville, Pa.

For information or detailed directions to Big Diamond Raceway, contact the track office at: (570) 385-0744 or on race day: (570) 544-1410. The official website is: www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


COMING EVENTS:
Tuesday July 25, 7:30PM – ROC DIRT MODIFIED SOUTHERN TOUR: BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS & SPORTSMAN.
Friday July 28, 7:30PM – SCHAEFFER’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON/BUELL NIGHT…MAKE-UP CONSI AND 25-LAP 358 MODIFIED FEATURE, ROADRUNNER FEATURE, PLUS FULL PROGRAM OF 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, AND 600 MODIFIEDS.
Tuesday August 1, 7:30PM – OPEN PRACTICE. PITS-$20. STANDS-FREE.
Friday August 4, 7:30PM – MAKE-UP CONSI AND 20-LAP FEATURE FOR SPORTSMAN PLUS FULL PROGRAM OF 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, FOUR CYLINDERS


THUNDERSTORM STRIKES ONE IN THE WIN COLUMN AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – July 21, 2006 – After qualifying events for 358 Modifieds and Sportsman had been completed, a rain soaked thunderstorm struck the Big Diamond Raceway on Friday evening at about 8:15PM. The remainder of the card from Friday’s NAPA Auto Parts Stores Night was washed-out due to the huge amount of rainfall that had accumulated. Rain checks from this event are not valid as the leftover events will be presented in the coming weeks. Management however has offered a $2 discount with that rain check if presented for this Tuesday nights RoC event.

The 358 Modifieds completed a trio of heats with victories going to Justin Andrews (Parryville), Kevin Hirthler (Boyertown), and Jeff Sechrist (Wernersville). This Friday evening as part of Schaeffer’s Harley Davidson Night, the 358 Modifieds will hold their rain rescheduled consi and 25-lap feature as well as a the Roadrunner feature. A full program is then slated for 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and the third ’06 visit by the 600 Modified Tour. Gates open at 5PM with warm-ups slated for 7PM. Heat racing takes the green at 7:30PM.

Sportsman heat winners were: Ricky Rutt (Phillipsburg NJ), Josh Biever (Orwigsburg), and Gary Wagner Jr. (Womelsdorf). The held-over Sportsman consi and 20-lap feature will take place on Friday August 4 along with a full program of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and the second appearance of the Four Cylinders. Roadrunners will compete in twin-15s on Friday August 11.

The wingless ARDC Midgets were also part of Friday’s card. The driver of the Joe Gibbs Racing Interstate Batteries #18 NASCAR Nextel Cup racer, JJ Yeley, was set for action in the #25 Midget. Yeley was adjusting quickly to Diamond’s surface during warm-up laps. ARDC is in the process of selecting a date for the make-up event, and they are looking at the month of August.

Big Diamond Raceway’s next event on the schedule is this Tuesday July 25. The RoC Dirt Tour is set to make their second BDR appearance of 2006. The Big Block Modified South Tour will compete in a 75-lap main event, while the Sportsman South contingent battles in a 40-lap feature. Gates open at 5PM with warm-ups slated for 7PM. Heat racing takes the green at 7:30PM.

7/21/2006 – Big Diamond Raceway Results…
358 MODIFIEDS
HEAT ONE (10-LAPS): 1) #24H-Justin Andrews, 2) #T102-Shawn Fitzpatrick, 3) #44-Danny Erb, 4) #11D-Billy Pauch Jr., 5) #64W-John Willman, 6) #00-Doug Manmiller, 7) #4-Duane Howard, 8) #81-Terry Meitzler, 9) #7JR-Jimmy Reppert, 10) #27M-Kenny Eckert Jr., 11) #35-Chris Gambler.
HEAT TWO (10-LAPS): 1) #117-Kevin Hirthler, 2) #33-Ray Swinehart, 3) #1c-Craig Von Dohren 4) #6-Ryan Watt, 5) #123-Roy Wiest, 6) #16-Jason Hamilton, 7) #W9-Colt Harris, 8) #1-Bobby Gunther-Walsh, 9) #79-Amanda Spotts, 10) #70-Kurt Spotts.
HEAT THREE (10-LAPS): 1) #42-Jeff Sechrist, 2) #114-Carroll Hine III, 3) #118-Sean Merkel, 4) #88-Jeff Strunk, 5) #11-Meme DeSantis, 6) #14-Rick Laubach, 7) #9-Bruce Hirthler, 8) #221-Ryan Beltz, 9) #117x-Marty Shappell, 10) #00H-Doug Hendricks.

SPORTSMAN
HEAT ONE (10-LAPS): 1) #57-Ricky Rutt, 2) #76-Bob Lilick, 3) #95-Freddie Fisher, 4) #5-Jason Bashore, 5) #72-Ray Woodall Jr., 6) #917-Jarrad Miller, 7) #3-Luke Wagner, 8) #14-Louie Mitchalk, 9) #110-Bill Finneran III, 10) #3M-Donnie Miller, 11) #113-Jeff Sterner.
HEAT TWO (10-LAPS): 1) #46-Josh Biever, 2) #17R-Kevin Nolf, 3) #26-Tom Brennan, 4) #2T-Mike Taylor, 5) #6JR-Kevin Beach, 6) #71-Mike Mammana, 7) #56-Shawn Heistand, 8) #61-Patrick Cozze, 9) #31-Harry Landis, 10) #28-Brian Lilick.
HEAT THREE (10-LAPS): 1) #47-Gary Wagner Jr., 2) #99-Craig Whitmoyer, 3) #R35-Ebby Ridge, 4) #84-Leroy Long, 5) #19-Jordan Umbenahuer, 6) #88-Michael Bent, 7) #11-AJ DeSantis, 8) #0-Kevin Brady, 9) #221-Rob Gibson, 10) #17-Billy Moyer Jr.


BIG DIAMOND POINTS AS OF JULY 18

358 Modifieds Big Diamond Raceway
As of 7/18/2006 Year to Date Total Points
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 4 Duane Howard 1,165
2. 88 Jeff Strunk 1,105
3. 6 Ryan Watt 940
4. 00 Doug Manmiller 865
5. 1C Craig Von Dohren 850
6. 81 Kevin Hartnett 765
7. 14 Rick Laubach 735
8. 33 Ray Swinehart 665
9. 11D Billy Pauch (Jr) 660
10. 64W John Willman 645
11. 11 Meme Desantis 635
12. 42 Jeff Sechrist 535
13. 8 Doug Hendricks 500
14. 16 Jason Hamilton 490
15. 117 Kevin Hirthler 490
16. T102 Shawn Fitzpatrick 465
17. 44 Danny Erb 455
18. 221 Ryan Beltz 450
19. W9 Colt Harris 390
20. 24H Justin Andrews 340
21. 123 Roy Wiest 320
22. 118 Sean Merkel 300
23. 1450 Greg Weiland 270
24. 77 Frank Cozze 265
25. 2 John Tschudy 200
26. 77 Doug Hoffman 190
27. 71S Sam Schaeffer 180
28. 7JR Jimmy Reppert 155
29. S1 Bobby Gunther-Walsh 135
30. 9 Bruce Hirthler 130
31. 178 Neil Huber 130
32. 27M Ken Eckert Jr. 125
33. 357 Billy Pauch 110
34. 9R Brian Weaver 100
35. 79 Amanda Spotts 100
36. 6R Dale Roth 95
37. 102 Tim Fitzpatrick 80
38. 114 Carroll Hine III 75
39. 27 Steve Bottcher 70
40. 10 Rich Wisdo 55
41. 17 Ryan Grim 45
42. 37X Tommy Scheetz 45
43. 517 Steve Lozorak III 45
44. 25 Ray Deemer 40
45. 71-S Andy Burkhart 30
46. 54W Chris Warren 25
47. 19B Brent Boyer 25
48. 83K Bernie Kelly 25
49. 69 Andrew Fayash Jr. 20
50. 117X Marty Shappell 20
50. 70 Kurt Spotts 20
52. 54 Billy Warren 20
53. 15 Dale Hartz 15
54. 35 Chris Gambler 5
55. 57 Bill Gensler 5
56. 3K Ron Kline 5
57. M-1 Mark Kratz 5
58. 13JR Lenny Leibold 5
59. 19 Tom Umbenhauer 5

Road Runners Big Diamond Raceway
As of 7/18/2006 Year to Date Total Points
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 66 Kevin Holland 1,010
2. 45 Ryan Olenick 945
3. 22 Tom Hablett 935
4. 19W Derek Bender 890
5. 721 Jason Sherman 845
6. 37P Eric Pinkerton 835
7. 20 Corey Sechrist 815
8. 17 Elvin Brennan III 790
9. 11 Dan Strenkoski 790
10. Z-71 Andy Zvorsky 785
11. 101 Gary Renninger 770
12. 712 Jeremy Becker 750
13. 11X Joe Hendricks 735
14. 550 Kevin Olenick 735
15. 00 Tory Jenkins 550
16. 77 Andrew Fayash III 435
17. 17V Bud Vidal Jr. 420
18. 29B Ricky Bender 385
19. 23 Kyle Somers 375
20. 03 Sterling Moyer 295
21. 711 Bob Ditzler 260
22. 1G Josh Generella 60
23. 23B Andy Somers 45
24. 93 Robert Pyle III 40
25. 11K Kirby schlappich 0

Sportsman Big Diamond Raceway
As of 7/18/2006 Year to Date Total Points
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 47 Gary Wagner Jr. 995
2. 72 Ray Woodall Jr. 975
3. 26 Tom Brennan 920
4. 99 Craig Whitmoyer 860
5. 6 JR Kevin Beach Jr. 850
6. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer 780
7. 3 Luke Wagner 760
8. 84 LeRoy Long 720
9. 46 Josh Biever 715
10. 17 Billy Moyer Jr. 715
11. 4 Mike Hughes 655
12. 95 Freddie Fisher 610
13. 917 Jarrad Miller 595
14. 17R Kevin Nolf 565
15. 14 Louie Mitchalk 535
16. 64 Andy Miller 515
17. 221 Rob Gibson 505
18. 71 Mike Mammana 440
19. 2 Rich Stankiewitz 400
20. 8 Brad Force 345
21. 19 Brad Brightbill 300
22. 111 Archie Meyers III 290
23. 11 AJ Desantis 280
24. 13 James Morris 255
25. 88 Michael Bent 250
26. 56 Shawn Hiestand 230
27. 29 Scott Singley 175
28. 64W Kyle Weiss 155
29. 144 Donnie Miller 155
30. 31 Harry Landis 155
31. 110 Bill Finneran III 125
32. 6C Craig Richards 125
33. 0 Kevin Brady 120
34. 5 Mike Finkbinder 115
35. 15J John Pursell 110
36. 94 Rick Beavers 100
37. 14R Rick Hendricks Jr. 100
38. 73 Darrel Herman 90
39. 74 Pete Marburger 90
40. 77 Tom Miller 85
41. 21 Dave Lauver 85
42. 113 Jeff Sterner 85
43. 41 Brian Puckett 80
44. 39 Lowell Snyder 80
45. 67 Matt Krause 80
46. 2T Mike Taylor 75
47. 5T Troy Loeb 70
48. 301 Jeff McCaughey 70
49. 39J John Stevens 65
50. 48 Jack Brink 60
51. 98 Tim Apgar 50
52. 00 Gary Butler 45
53. 57 Ricky Rutt 45
54. 28 Tom Solderich 40
55. 5K Eric Kauffman 35
56. 33 Bobby Yeager 35
57. 61 Patrick Cozze 20
58. 5W Pat Wall 15
59. 71JR Chris James Jr. 10
60. 12V John Deatrich 5
61. 31K James Kleedorfer 5
62. 5C Chase Mattioli 5
63. 44S Scott Merritt 5
64. 14X Phil Reader 5
65. 84Y Jamie Yankowski 5


COMING EVENTS:
Friday July 21, 7:30PM – NAPA AUTO PARTS PRESENTS 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, ARDC MIDGETS.
Tuesday July 25, 7:30PM – ROC DIRT MODIFIED SOUTHERN TOUR: BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS & SPORTSMAN.
Friday July 28, 7:30PM – SCHAEFFER’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON/BUELL PRESENTS 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, AND 600 MODIFIEDS.
Tuesday August 1, 7:30PM – OPEN PRACTICE. PITS-$20. STANDS-FREE.
Friday August 4, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, FOUR CYLINDERS

HERR AND BEAVERS ARE VICTORIOUS ON SIDEWAYS SUNDAY
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – July 16, 2006 – Big Diamond Raceway held a special winged warrior program this past Sunday evening. ‘Sideways Sunday’ sponsored by Mark’s Mechanical treated fans to a Sprint-Car show on a warm and beautiful evening.

Frankie Herr of Carlisle won his fifth overall Super Sportsman main event, after starting from tenth and grabbing the lead with only five laps remaining. Tommy Beavers, making the long trip from Winchester VA, wired the field to emerge victorious in the 20-lap PA 305 Sprint-Car feature.

“This was my first time here since 1991 when they had a tour race here” noted Herr, the current Super Sportsman Tour points leader. “The track has changed a lot since then. I hope that we put on a good show for the fans, cause I sure had a good time out there”.

By luck of the draw, John Stehman (Halifax) started from inside pole. Stehman led the early moments followed by New Egypt (NJ) regular Art Liedl. On lap six, Liedl darted to the inside of Stehman as the pair drew down the backstretch. Liedl, a three-time feature winner at NES this season from Flemington NJ, grabbed the lead as they scored lap six.

While Liedl paced the field, Herr was busy working through a talented array of machinery. Herr entered the top five on lap nine. After battling for a while with Stehman, Herr secured the runner-up spot on lap nineteen. One lap later, Herr dropped to the bottom and raced side-by-side with Liedl in a battle for victory. Racing out of turn four, Herr grabbed possession of the spot and never looked back.

Herr raced to his fifth overall ’06 feature win at three different speedways, and second straight victory on the weekend. Herr won Saturday night’s Super Sportsman main event at the Williams Grove (PA) Speedway.

Stehman moved to the inside of Liedl on the twenty-second circuit and remained in the runner-up spot at the finish. “Racing against guys like Frankie (Herr) and Rich (Eichelberger) these guys are the best in the business.” Mentioned Stehman. “I hope they schedule more races here (at Big Diamond). We’d be here to support it”.

Speaking of Eichelberger, he survived through a wild evening. The York Springs area racer was leading his heat race until his machine lost a right rear wheel on the final lap. Eichelberger started from the twelfth and final row in the A-Main. He made a miraculous charge through the field and grabbed third on the twenty-third lap. Jerry Wolfe (Harrisburg) finished fourth ahead of Liedl.

Tommy Beavers grabbed the lead of the PA 305 Sprint-Car main event on the opening circuit. Beavers, making his first ever visit to Big Diamond, raced as if he had competed there throughout his entire racing career.

“This makes the trip worthwhile” mentioned the Virginia based driver. “I love this place. I wish we could race here every week. We changed a bunch of stuff on the race car when we got here, and the car just ran great. It was like driving a caddilac.”

Craig Myers likewise raced successfully and drove in the second position from green through checkered. Randy Kaylor (Manheim) throttled the Don Barnett owned machine to a third place finish. Dusty Shatzer, a former Micro Sprint competitor out of Hagerstown MD, finished fourth. Joey Biasi Jr. (Mary-D PA), a past BDR racer, returned to his old stomping grounds with a fifth place finish in the Stametz Racing #3B machine. Biasi also competed in the Super Sportsman race and finished seventh.

24 Super Sportsman and 20 PA 305 Sprint cars were on hand for this event.

Continuing the open wheeled theme at Big Diamond Raceway on Friday night July 21 will be the return of the ARDC midgets as well as a regular show of the 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners presented by NAPA Auto Parts. The show once again will carry a $12 admission for Adults, Students (11-17) and Seniors 60+ $10, Kids 10 and under are free.

The RoC Dirt Modified South Tour returns for a second appearance of 2006 on Tuesday July 25. The Big Block Modifieds and Sportsman compete as gates open at 5PM and racing begins at 7:30PM.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY-FULL RACE SUMMARY
Sunday July 16, 2006-Mark’s Mechanical presents ‘Sideways Sunday’
WINGED SUPER SPORTSMAN
FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Frankie Herr, 2) John Stehman, 3) Rich Eichelberger, 4) Jerry Wolfe, 5) Art Liedl, 6) Gregg Foster, 7) Joey Biasi Jr., 8) Billy Schoffstall, 9) Ian Borden, 10) Paul Miller, 11) Jeremy Strausser, 12) Mike Enders, 13) Chris Reed, 14) David Socks II, 15) Aaron Eichelberger, 16) Scott Snyder, 17) Bill Brown, 18) Steve Wilson, 19) Steve Batdorf, 20) Smokey Snelbaker, 21) Pat Kelly, 22) Danny Wall, 23) Craig Morrow, 24) Jim Shuttlesworth.
HEAT WINNERS: Frankie Herr (Carlisle), Jim Shuttlesworth (Lewisberry), Art Liedl (Flemington NJ).

PA 305 SPRINTS
FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Tommy Beavers, 2) Craig Myers, 3) Randy Kaylor, 4) Dusty Shatzer, 5) Joey Biasi Jr., 6) Andy Haus, 7) Jim Wentz, 8) Todd Spangler, 9) Marshall Gogg, 10) George Riden, 11) “Cowboy” Jim Kennedy, 12) Tim Damiani, 13) Chad Myers, 14) Mike Alleman, 15) Jeremy Quick, 16) Ryan Hansen, 17) Richie Fitz, 18) Nathan Gramley. DNS: Don Slack, Jeff Sell.
HEAT WINNERS: Tommy Beavers (Winchester VA), Mike Alleman (Ickesburg), Chad Myers.


COMING EVENTS:
Sunday July 16, 6:30PM – WINGED SUPER SPORTSMAN, PA 305 SPRINT CARS.
Friday July 21, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, ARDC MIDGETS.
Tuesday July 25, 7:30PM – ROC DIRT MODIFIED SOUTHERN TOUR: BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS & SPORTSMAN.


HUGE CROWD ASSEMBLES ON PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT; DESANTIS, BRENNAN, ZVORSKY, AND MARTOCCI ARE VICTORIOUS
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – July 14, 2006 – On Friday July 7, a huge crowd gathered at Big Diamond Raceway to witness the prestigious Georgie Stevenson Memorial Races. Just seven days later, another spectacular gathering of auto racing enthusiasts crammed the Coal Region based facility.

Emerich Trucking and Halabura Tree Farms presented T-102 Pack The House Night this past Friday evening. At a low price of only $6, racing fans
were treated to an entertaining evening of racing at the three-eighth’s mile clay oval.

Meme DeSantis of Temple captured his second 25-lap 358 Modified feature victory of the season. Tom Brennan of Pottsville scored his second regular season 20-lap main event win in the Sportsman class. Andy Zvorsky of Orwigsburg won his first career Roadrunner 15-lap feature after the apparent winner had been disqualified in post race tech. Tom Martocci of Kunkletown made it 2 for 2 on the season in 600 Modified action.

Dale Roth led the opening lap of the 358 Modified main event. On a restart, Roth’s machine spun in the second corner which triggered an accident involving several cars. Jimmy Reppert became the new race leader on the ensuing green. DeSantis, who originally started from twelfth, advanced into the runner-up spot behind Reppert on the fifth lap. Current points leader Duane Howard (started fourteenth) followed from the third spot.

On a lap six restart, the trio of Reppert, DeSantis, and Howard powered three-wide through the first and second corners. DeSantis grabbed possession of the top spot with Howard and Reppert in pursuit. Laps six through twenty-five were completed caution-free, and Howard remained within striking distance of the leader DeSantis.

On lap 17 lapped traffic played a role as DeSantis was able to temporarily put some space between himself and the five-time track champion Howard. With the five to go signal displayed to the field, Howard began to track down DeSantis. Howard pulled to the rear deck of DeSantis on lap 23. One lap later, however, Howard’s machine drifted high in turns one and two. DeSantis was home free at this juncture of the contest.

DeSantis grabbed his second win of the season and seventeenth of his accomplished Diamond career. When Howard drifted into the upper groove on lap 24, Craig Von Dohren pounced into the runner-up position. Von Dohren of Oley had actually pitted earlier in the event and restarted from the rear. Howard of Oley landed a final finish of third. Third generation racer Billy Pauch Jr. of Frenchtown NJ raced from eleventh to fourth and four-time feature winner Jeff Strunk of Bethel rebounded from an early race accident to take fifth.

Rick Laubach finished sixth ahead of Sean Merkel, Reppert, Ryan Watt, and Doug Manmiller.

New Jersey’s Archie Myers III started inside pole for the Sportsman main event. Myers, a long-time racing veteran who is taking in his first full year of Diamond competition, led the opening eleven laps of the show. Two-time defending track champion Tom Brennan of Pottsville had started from fourteenth. Brennan gained the runner-up spot on lap nine.

Brennan dove to the inside of Myers and Brennan grabbed the lead to score the twelfth lap. Brennan pulled to a safe advantage over his competition as the race neared its completion. Brennan visited victory lane for the 11th time in his BDR Sportsman career. Myers held on to capture a season’s best finish of second.

Fred Fisher of Sinking Springs rebounded from a rough season to score a third place finish. Consistent Ray Woodall Jr. of Pen Argyl raced from eleventh to a final effort of fourth. Previous week’s winner Luke Wagner of Grantville rounded out the front finishing five.

Rookie competitor Bud Vidal Jr. of Pottsville started from the pole in the Roadrunner main event. Vidal led the opening six laps before eighth starting Kirby Schlappich took command. Andy Zvorsky, who started ninth, quickly followed Schlappich in the runner-up spot.

Schlappich apparently went on to win his second straight feature and third overall of the season. In the post race inspection area, however, Schlappich’s machine was found illegal. Zvorsky finished behind Schlappich and was awarded the victory. It was his first career triumph and Zvorsky becomes the eighth different Roadrunner winner of 2006.

Derek Bender of Tremont matched his season’s best finish of second while Elvin Brennan III of Forestville ended up third. Tom Hablett of Schuylkill Haven grabbed his fourth to five for a final finish of fourth. Rookie driver Gary Renninger of Pottsville rounded out the front five.

The 600 Modifieds made their second appearance of the season. Actually it was their fourth visit as two of the events were canceled due to rain. Kyle Gardner led for two laps before the tour’s director and founder Doug Borger took command. Borger set the pace until the fifth lap when his machine lost a wheel and brought out the caution flag.

Gardner jumped back in front, while Tom Martocci was making his way through the field after starting from eighth. Martocci, a three-time winner at Diamond last season, darted ahead of Gardner on the eighth lap to assume command of the field. Martocci went on to score his second BDR win of the season. Gardner finished second ahead of Dylan Cisney, Craig Berringer, and Bryan Mady.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY-FULL RACE SUMMARY
Friday July 14, 2006-T102 PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT
358 MODIFIEDS
FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Meme DeSantis,2) Craig Von Dohren, 3) Duane Howard, 4) Billy Pauch Jr., 5) Jeff Strunk, 6) Rick Laubach, 7) Sean Merkel, 8) Jimmy Reppert, 9) Ryan Watt, 10) Doug Manmiller, 11) Danny Erb, 12) John Willman, 13) Colt Harris, 14) Roy Wiest, 15) Ryan Beltz, 16) Greg Weiland, 17) Jeff Sechrist, 18) Kevin Hirthler, 19) Doug Hendricks, 20) Ray Swinehart, 21) Andy Burkhart, 22) Dale Roth, 23) Carroll Hine III, 24) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 25) Justin Andrews, 26) Kevin Hartnett, 27) Billy Warren.
Did Not Qualify: Chris Warren, Ron Kline, Kenny Eckert Jr., Bill Gensler, Chris Gambler, Bobby Gunther-Walsh, Marty Shappell, Jason Hamilton.
HEAT WINNERS: Kevin Hirthler, Duane Howard, Meme DeSantis.
B-MAIN WINNERS: Danny Erb, Doug Hendricks.

SPORTSMAN
FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Tom Brennan, 2) Archie Myers III, 3) Fred Fisher, 4) Ray Woodall Jr., 5) Luke Wagner, 6) Mike Finkbinder, 7) Jarrad Miller, 8) Rob Gibson, 9) Andy Miller, 10) Shawn Heistand, 11) Billy Moyer Jr., 12) Josh Biever, 13) Kevin Beach, 14) Harry Landis, 15) AJ DeSantis, 16) Leroy Long, 17) Louie Mitchalk, 18) Gary Wagner Jr., 19) Bobby Yeager, 20) Kevin Nolf, 21) Rick Hendricks, 22) Rich Stankiwicz, 23) Ricky Rutt, 24) James Morris, 25) Mike Mammana, 26) Jordan Umbenhauer.
Did Not Qualify: Patrick Cozze, Jeff Sterner, Phil Reader, Miachael Bent, Kevin Brady, John Stevens, Craig Whitmoyer, Tom Miller.
HEAT WINNERS: Tom Brennan, Ricky Rutt, Rob Gibson.
B-MAIN WINNER: Kevin Nolf.

ROADRUNNERS
FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Andy Zvorsky, 2) Derek Bender, 3) Elvin Brennan III, Tom Hablett, Gary Renninger, Jeremy Becker, Ryan Olenick, Kevin Olenick, Kevin Holland, Dan Strenkoski, Bob Ditzler, Andrew Fayash III, Ricky Bender, Eric Pinkerton, Bud Vidal Jr., Corey Sechrist, Andy Somers, Joey Hendricks, Kirby Schlappich (DQ).
HEAT WINNERS: Bud Vidal Jr., Kirby Schlappich.


BIG DIAMOND POINTS AS OF 7-10-06

358 Modifieds Big Diamond Raceway
As of 7/10/2006 Year to Date Total Points
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 4 Duane Howard 1,050
2. 88 Jeff Strunk 1,000
3. 6 Ryan Watt 855
4. 00 Doug Manmiller 785
5. 81 Kevin Hartnett 760
6. 1C Craig Von Dohren 730
7. 14 Rick Laubach 635
8. 33 Ray Swinehart 635
9. 64W John Willman 575
10. 11D Billy Pauch (Jr) 550
11. 11 Meme Desantis 510
12. 29 Jeff Sechrist 490
13. 16 Jason Hamilton 485
14. 8 Doug Hendricks 465
15. T102 Shawn Fitzpatrick 455
16. 117 Kevin Hirthler 450
17. 221 Ryan Beltz 395
18. 44 Danny Erb 380
19. 24H Justin Andrews 335
20. W9 Colt Harris 325
21. 77 Frank Cozze 265
22. 123 Roy Wiest 260
23. 1450 Greg Weiland 220
24. 118 Sean Merkel 205
25. 2 John Tschudy 200
26. 77 Doug Hoffman 190
27. 71S Sam Schaeffer 180
28. 9 Bruce Hirthler 130
29. S1 Bobby Gunther-Walsh 130
30. 178 Neil Huber 130
31. 27M Ken Eckert Jr. 120
32. 357 Billy Pauch 110
33. 9R Brian Weaver 100
34. 79 Amanda Spotts 100
35. 102 Tim Fitzpatrick 80
36. 6R Dale Roth 75
37. 27 Steve Bottcher 70
38. 7JR Jimmy Reppert 65
39. 114 Carroll Hine III 60
40. 10 Rich Wisdo 55
41. 17 Ryan Grim 45
42. 37X Tommy Scheetz 45
43. 517 Steve Lozorak III 45
44. 25 Ray Deemer 40
45. 19B Brent Boyer 25
46. 83K Bernie Kelly 25
47. 54W Chris Warren 20
48. 69 Andrew Fayash Jr. 20
49. 70 Kurt Spotts 20
50. 15 Dale Hartz 15
50. 117X Marty Shappell 15
52. 54 Billy Warren 15
53. 71-S Andy Burkhart 5
54. M-1 Mark Kratz 5
55. 13JR Lenny Leibold 5
56. 19U Tom Umbenhauer 5

Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 66 Kevin Holland 925
2. 45 Ryan Olenick 850
3. 721 Jason Sherman 845
4. 22 Tom Hablett 825
5. 37P Eric Pinkerton 775
6. 19W Derek Bender 770
7. 20 Corey Sechrist 765
8. 11 Dan Strenkoski 710
9. 11X Joe Hendricks 695
10. 17 Elvin Brennan III 675
11. 101 Gary Renninger 665
12. Z-71 Andy Zvorsky 660
13. 712 Jeremy Becker 650
14. 550 Kevin Olenick 645
15. 11K Kirby Schlappich 560
16. 00 Tory Jenkins 550
17. 23 Kyle Somers 375
18. 17V Bud Vidal Jr. 365
19. 77 Andrew Fayash III 365
20. 29B Ricky Bender 320
21. 03 Sterling Moyer 295
22. 711 Bob Ditzler 185
23. 1G Josh Generella 60
24. 93 Robert Pyle III 40

Sportsman Big Diamond Raceway
As of 7/10/2006 Year to Date Total Points
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 47 Gary Wagner Jr. 955
2. 72 Ray Woodall Jr. 865
3. 99 Craig Whitmoyer 855
4. 26 Tom Brennan 795
5. 6 JR Kevin Beach Jr. 785
6. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer 775
7. 84 LeRoy Long 670
8. 4 Mike Hughes 655
9. 3 Luke Wagner 655
10. 46 Josh Biever 645
11. 17 Billy Moyer Jr. 640
12. 17R Kevin Nolf 535
13. 917 Jarrad Miller 500
14. 95 Freddie Fisher 495
15. 14 Louie Mitchalk 490
16. 71 Mike Mammana 435
17. 64 Andy Miller 430
18. 221 Rob Gibson 415
19. 2 Rich Stankiewitz 380
20. 8 Brad Force 345
21. 19 Brad Brightbill 300
22. 13 James Morris 245
23. 88 Michael Bent 245
24. 11 AJ Desantis 225
25. 29 Scott Singley 175
26. 111 Archie Meyers III 170
27. 64W Kyle Weiss 155
28. 144 Donnie Miller 155
29. 56 Shawn Hiestand 150
30. 110 Bill Finneran III 125
31. 6C Craig Richards 125
32. 0 Kevin Brady 115
33. 15J John Pursell 110
34. 94 Rick Beavers 100
35. 31 Harry Landis 95
36. 73 Darrel Herman 90
37. 74 Pete Marburger 90
38. 77 Tom Miller 85
39. 21 Dave Lauver 85
40. 41 Brian Puckett 80
41. 39 Lowell Snyder 80
42. 67 Matt Krause 80
43. 113 Jeff Sterner 80
44. 2T Mike Taylor 75
45. 14R Rick Hendricks Jr. 75
46. 5T Troy Loeb 70
47. 301 Jeff McCaughey 70
48. 39J John Stevens 60
49. 48 Jack Brink 60
50. 98 Tim Apgar 50
51. 00 Gary Butler 45
52. 28 Tom Solderich 40
53. 5K Eric Kauffman 35
54. 57 Ricky Rutt 30
55. 61 Patrick Cozze 20
56. 5 Mike Finkbinder 15
57. 5W Pat Wall 15
58. 71JR Chris James Jr. 10
59. 12V John Deatrich 5
60. 31K James Kleedorfer 5
61. 5C Chase Mattioli 5
62. 44S Scott Merritt 5
63. 84Y Jamie Yankowski 5


COMING EVENTS:
Friday July 14, 7:30PM – PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT- ADULT GENERAL ADMISSION ONLY $6 FOR THIS EVENT. 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS
Sunday July 16, 6:30PM – WINGED SUPER SPORTSMAN, PA 305 SPRINT CARS.
Friday July 21, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, ARDC MIDGETS.
Tuesday July 25, 7:30PM – ROC DIRT MODIFIED SOUTHERN TOUR: BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS & SPORTSMAN.


THANKS EXTENDED AS GEORGIE STEVENSON MEMORIAL IS A HUGE SUCCESS
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – July 9, 2006 – Friday evening’s Georgie Stevenson Memorial proved to be a wonderful evening for all. Weather conditions were perfect and a tremendous crowd had assembled. Car counts in each of the three divisions were good, as well.

Chris Stevenson would like to extend his thanks to all that helped on this big night of racing. The following is a quote from Chris. “I would like to thank everyone for donating, all of my family for helping, my 50/50 girls April, Rusanne, Karissa, Amanda, Jess, Katie, Jolene and Michelle. Thanks John Deatrich, Rich Antonelli, Jack Rich Inc., Big Diamond Raceway, Elmer Kramer, Bernie Lescavage, Kevin Holland and Crew and my fiance' Melissa!”

The 50/50 in the stands amounted to $1333.00. $100 of that was donated back from the 50/50 winner, Rich Antonelli of Forestville. The pit area 50/50 was $131 and won by Sportsman racer John Deatrich Jr. John graciously donated all of his winnings back which made the total $262.00.

There were many other kind contributions that took place throughout the evening. $320 was sold of the Memorial T-shirts; The flag signed by drivers went for total tickets that amounted to $27.00; The Billy Pauch Jr. painted mirror tickets amount to $170.00; The collection in the stands was $2402.00, $1000 of that from Jack Rich Inc.

And there were donations as follows:
Elmer Kramer - $50.00
Bernie Lescavage - $10.00
Kevin Holland #66 and crew - $100.00
And a unknown donator - $10.00
For a Grand total of $4,784.00


COMING EVENTS:
Friday July 14, 7:30PM – PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT- ADULT GENERAL ADMISSION ONLY $6 FOR THIS EVENT. 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS
Sunday July 16, 6:30PM – WINGED SUPER SPORTSMAN, PA 305 SPRINT CARS.
Friday July 21, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, ARDC MIDGETS.
Tuesday July 25, 7:30PM – ROC DIRT MODIFIED SOUTHERN TOUR: BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS & SPORTSMAN.

JEFF STRUNK EMERGES VICTORIOUS FOR FOURTH WIN OF THE SEASON IN STEVENSON MEMORIAL
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – July 7, 2006 – Jeff Strunk has captured nearly every feature victory possible during the course of his illustrious career. One achievement remained unclaimed until this past Friday evening at the Big Diamond Raceway. Strunk of Bethel won the 27th annual Georgie Stevenson Memorial, a 40-lap 358 Modified feature worth $3000. It was Strunk’s fourth feature win of the season.

Jack Rich Inc. presented this season’s Stevenson Memorial as a three division card was contested. Accomplished racing veteran Luke Wagner of Grantville won the 25-lap Sportsman main event while Kirby Schlappich of Hamburg continued his impressive ’06 venture with a 15-lap Roadrunner feature triumph.

Twenty-nine Mighty Modifieds took the initial green flag for their extra distance special feature. Rookie competitor, Carroll Hine III, grabbed the early advantage with Kevin Hirthler nipping at his heels. The event’s first caution flag was unfurled for Sean Merkel, who was debuting a brand new car for the evening. Hirthler out-gunned Hine on the restart to gain command of the field.

Billy Pauch Jr. was making some early race maneuvers through the pack from his seventeenth place starting position. Pauch aligned himself from fifth on a lap twelve restart. By the completion of the twelfth circuit, Pauch slid his machine into the second position behind race leader Hirthler. A caution with fifteen laps on the board took place for Hine, who was forced pitside.

Under green conditions, Pauch darted to the inside of Hirthler in turns one and two. Pauch gained the edge as the pair raced down the backstretch, and Pauch became the new race leader. Jeff Strunk, from thirteenth, powered into third on the restart. Strunk blasted past Hirthler for the runner-up spot at the race’s half-way margin, lap twenty. Strunk closed on Pauch and passed him for the lead via the inside groove of lap twenty-five.

A lap twenty-seven restart found Strunk in command with Pauch racing second. Pauch’s machine got out of shape in turns three and four and he eventually brought out the caution flag when his machine limped to a stop. The new restart order would find Strunk in front with Duane Howard, who started fourteenth, holding down the second position.

The final thirteen circuits were completed caution free and Strunk raced through lapped traffic during the closing moments with Howard in tow. With less than three laps remaining, Strunk began to open it up slightly over Howard. Strunk, driving Will Swoyer’s #88 Teo Chassis, cruised to his fourth win of the season and 29th career at BDR. An emotional Strunk dedicated the win to George Stevenson Sr. in victory lane.

Howard of Oley stormed to his third straight finish of second behind the wheel of Chad Sinon’s #4 Teo. Doug Manmiller of Wyomissing throttled his self-owned Bicknell-00 to his fifth top ten in the last six events with a third, which ties his finest effort of the season. Rick Laubach of Hellertown, steering Dick Biever’s Teo-14, likewise matched his season’s highest finish of fourth. Craig Von Dohren of Barto drove Mike Harvey’s #1c to his fifth top five of the season in fifth.

Rounding out the top ten were: Danny Erb of Boyertown, Ray Swinehart of Bechtelsville, Kevin Hartnett of Perkasie, Jeff Sechrist of Wernersville and Ryan Watt of Boyertown. 40 Modifieds were in competition for this year’s GSM race.

Rick Stankiewicz led the opening four laps of the Sportsman feature before Rick Hendricks took control. Hendricks, returning to full-time competition after a few seasons away, led until lap seven when his machine spun from the second corner and brought out the caution. Hendricks was unable to continue. Leroy Long of Womelsdorf became the new pace setter.

Long, who likewise has returned to weekly BDR competition after a couple of year’s absence, executed a flawless performance up front. Luke Wagner, who started ninth, followed Long into the runner-up position on the ninth lap. Wagner trailed the leader and looked for room to attempt a passing bid.

On the twenty-fourth lap, Wagner ducked to the inside groove and challenged Long for the lead. When they crossed the line to complete the circuit, the duo ran nearly even. Wagner, from the low side, inched ahead of Long through turns one and two, and led by about a half car length down the backstretch.

Wagner held on to capture the close victory, the second of his BDR Sportsman career. Long settled for a runner-up finish. Teen-ager Jordan Umbenhauer of Richland continued his steady ’06 season with a final finish of third. Ray Woodall Jr. of Pen Argyl advanced into fourth on lap twenty-one and remained there at the finish. 2005 Roadrunner champion, Kevin Beach of Llewellyn, rounded out the front five.

The second five consisted of: Jarrad Miller of Barto, Brad Force of Sellersville, Kevin Nolf of Nazareth, and Gary Wagner Jr. of Womelsdorf.

Recent newcomer, Kyle Somers of Schuylkill Haven, has certainly been turning heads in the Roadrunner division. The second generation racer led the opening seven laps of the main event. Kirby Schlappich, who started twelfth, hauled past Somers via the inside groove of the eighth circuit. Schlappich, enjoying one of his finest seasons to date, remained in front to capture his third career victory behind the wheel of his quick Nova-11K.

Somers and Kevin Holland of Pine Grove exchanged the runner-up spot during the event’s final pair of circuits. Somers remained in second with Holland crossing in third. Corey Sechrist of Womelsdorf locked in his third top five finish of fourth. Young rookie racer, Kevin Olenick of Forestville entered the top five during the event’s closing moments and finished fifth.

This Friday evening July 14 will be T-102 Pack The House Night. Adult General Admission for this event is only $6. A four division show is on the schedule including 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and 600 Modifieds. Gates open at 5PM with warm-ups beginning at 7PM. The first heat takes a green flag at 7:30PM. Plenty of fun contests are set to take place during the course of the evening.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY-FULL RACE SUMMARY
Friday July 7, 2006-GEORGIE STEVENSON MEMORIAL
358 MODIFIEDS
FEATURE (40-LAPS): 1) Jeff Strunk, 2) Duane Howard, 3) Doug Manmiller, 4) Rick Laubach, 5) Craig Von Dohren, 6) Danny Erb, 7) Ray Swinehart, 8) Kevin Hartnett, 9) Jeff Sechrist, 10) Ryan Watt, 11) Jason Hamilton, 12) Steve Bottcher, 13) John Tschudy, 14) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 15) Justin Andrews, 16) Amanda Spotts, 17) Roy Wiest, 18) Kevin Hirthler, 19) Kenny Eckert Jr., 20) Ryan Beltz, 21) Billy Pauch Jr., 22) Doug Hendricks, 23) Sean Merkel, 24) Carroll Hine III, 25) Jimmy Reppert, 26) John Willman, 27) Tom Umbenhauer, 28) Dale Roth, 29) Meme DeSantis.
Did Not Qualify: Kurt Spotts, Bernie Kelly, Marty Shappell, Bobby Gunther-Walsh, Lenny Leibold, Andy Burkhart, Frank Cozze, Mark Kratz, Greg Weiland, Neil Huber, Colt Harris.
HEAT WINNERS: Dale Roth, Rick Laubach, Meme DeSantis, Duane Howard.
B-MAIN WINNERS: Sean Merkel, Danny Erb.

SPORTSMAN
FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Luke Wagner, 2) Leroy Long, 3) Jordan Umbenhauer, 4) Ray Woodall Jr., 5) Kevin Beach, 6) Jarrad Miller, 7) Brad Force, 8) Kevin Nolf, 9) Gary Wagner Jr., 10) Brian Puckett, 11) Mike Taylor, 12) Billy Moyer Jr., 13) Archie Myers III, 14) John Stevens, 15) Donnie Miller, 16) Craig Whitmoyer, 17) James Morris, 18) Josh Biever, 19) Eric Kauffman, 20) Tom Brennan, 21) Freddie Fisher, 22) Rich Stankiewicz, 23) Scott Singley, 24) Michael Bent, 25) Rick Hendricks, 26) Ricky Rutt.
Did Not Qualify: Bill Finneran III, Kevin Brady, Louie Mitchalk, Jimmy Kleedorfer, Jeff Sterner, Dave Lauver, John Deatrich Jr., AJ DeSantis, Rob Gibson, Scott Merritt, Jack Brink.
HEAT WINNERS: Craig Whitmoyer, Josh Biever, Jordan Umbenhauer, Michael Bent.
B-MAIN WINNER: Archie Myers III.

ROADRUNNERS
FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Kirby Schlappich, 2) Kyle Somers, 3) Kevin Holland, 4) Corey Sechrist, 5) Kevin Olenick, 6) Tom Hablett, 7) Andy Zvorsky, 8) Gary Renninger, 9) Joey Hendricks, 10) Andrew Fayash III, 11) Derek Bender, 12) Jason Sherman, 13) Elvin Brennan III, 14) Ryan Olenick, 15) Dan Strenkoski, 16) Jeremy Becker, 17) Bud Vidal Jr., 18) Ricky Bender, 19) Bob Ditzler, 20) Eric Pinkerton.
HEAT WINNERS: Kyle Somers, Elvin Brennan III.


BIG DIAMOND TO PRESENT SECOND ENDURO OF YEAR ON
AUGUST 20, RULE REVISIONS IN PLACE

Big Diamond Raceway will present it's second enduro of 2006 on
Sunday, August 20. The date of August 13 was scratched from the
original schedule due to a conflict with the highly popular Pottsville
Cruise Night.

There are a number of revisions to the rules since the last enduro
event. Also if a car is registered by August 11, the registration is
$50.00 per car and one person is admitted free with registration.
After the August 11 deadline , registration is still $50.00 per car,
however, no one will be admitted free with registration.

Rules containing the entry form will also be posted on the track
website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


GEORGIE STEVENSON MEMORIAL KICKS OFF HUGE MONTH OF JULY THIS FRIDAY AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY

The 27th annual Georgie Stevenson Memorial presented by Jack Rich Inc. is slated for this Friday evening July 7. The 358 Modifieds headline this year’s program with a 40-lap/$3000 to win feature event. They will be joined by the Sportsman and Roadrunners.

Georgie Stevenson was a young racing fan who loved attending the weekly events at Big Diamond Raceway. Georgie was one of the friendliness youngsters that one would find in the stands, talking and saying hello to passers by. Sadly, Georgie Stevenson lost his battle with cancer at the young age of twelve.

During Georgie’s battle with cancer, he worked hard to raise money for the cause. Georgie won the Optimist-Man of the Year Award in 1979 from the Pottsville Optimist Club for all of his hard work. Since Georgie’s passing, his father George continued to work hard by helping the families of terminally ill children. Georgie’s younger brother, Chris Stevenson continues that tradition today.

The Georgie Stevenson Memorial is a very special event for race fans and drivers alike. Many drivers make a point of competing in this event yearly. Big Diamond has presented this show annually in Georgie’s honor, and this season will be the 27th Stevenson Memorial event.

Gates open at 5PM with the first heat taking the green at 7:30PM. Adult admission will be $17, Students (11-17) and seniors 60+ $15, Kids 10 and under Free. Rain checks from June 30 will be good for the next three events and serve as a credit of $12 if used for the Georgie Stevenson Memorial event.

Looking ahead to Friday July 14, T-102 presents Pack the House Night. This race was rained-out earlier in the season and the highly anticipated date is approaching quickly. The 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and 600 Modifieds will make up the four division show. Adult general admission for this event is only $6. There will be a beach party and hawaiian shirt contest, and all kinds of fun for the spectators on hand.

Big Diamond Raceway will host a special event for sprint car fans on Sunday July 16 as Sideways Sunday is presented by Mark's Mechanical of Orwigsburg, Pa. The Pa 305 sprint cars will be joined by the winged super sportsman division. Pit gates will open at 4:30 pm and racing begins at 6:30 pm. The show will be bargain priced at $10 for an Adult, Student, or Senior admission, and as always Kids 10 and under are free.

Continuing the open wheeled theme at Big Diamond Raceway on Friday night July 21 will be the return of the ARDC midgets as well as a regular show of the 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners presented by NAPA Auto Parts. The show once again will carry a $12 admission for Adults, Students (11-17) and Seniors 60+ $10, Kids 10 and under are free.

Just four nights later the ROC Dirt Modified Tour featuring Big Block Modifieds and Sportsman will invade Big Diamond Raceway for their second 2006 visit to the Minersville oval. In their last visit Billy Pauch drove the potent Norm's Save Station #357 to victory over Ray Swinehart, Duane Howard, Alan Johnson, and Jimmy Horton. Mike Lyons captured the sportsman main event. The last ROC event had close to 100 entries in attendance.

Finally the month of July comes to a close as Big Diamond Raceway hosts yet another fan favorite show of the 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and 600 Modifieds presented by Schaeffer's Harley-Davidson/Buell of Orwigsburg, Pa.

Fans are reminded for all the latest event information and directions check out the official raceway website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


COMING EVENTS:
Wednesday July 5, 7:30PM – OPEN PRACTICE.
Friday July 7, 7:30PM – JACK RICH INC. GEORGIE STEVENSON MEMORIAL, 358 MODIFIEDS (40-LAPS), SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS
Friday July 14, 7:30PM – T102 PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT- ADULT GENERAL ADMISSION ONLY $6 FOR THIS EVENT. 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS
Sunday July 16, 6:30PM – WINGED SUPER SPORTSMAN, PA 305 SPRINT CARS.


RAIN, RAIN GO AWAY; MA NATURE CANCELS CARD AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – June 30, 2006 – Rain and flooding had been the major story in the area earlier this week. But, when the meteorologists noted that Friday ‘looked great weather wise’ Big Diamond Raceway was optimistic. Unfortunately, Mother Nature decided to let another rain storm rip through the grounds and Friday night’s festivities were canceled due to the weather.

Slow laps started at approximately 7PM for Brinckman Coins/Felty Trucking/Ark Rentals Night. During the Sportsman hot-laps, however, rain started to appear. After warm-ups were completed, the heavy trucks took to the speedway in an attempt to save the track, however, the moisture would not subside. The trucks were called to the pits, and eventually officials were left with no choice but to cancel the evening’s four division show of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and 600 Modifieds.

A test and tune session is on tap for this Wednesday July 5th. Any and all divisions (with a roll cage) are welcome to attend. Pit admission is $20, and entrance to the grandstands is free of charge. Practice begins at 7:30PM.

The 27th annual Georgie Stevenson Memorial (this year presented by Jack Rich Inc.) is slated for this upcoming Friday evening July 7. The 358 Modifieds headline this year’s program with a 40-lap/$3000 to win feature event. They will be joined by the Sportsman and Roadrunners.

Georgie Stevenson was a young racing fan who loved attending the weekly events at Big Diamond Raceway. Georgie was one of the friendliness youngsters that one would find in the stands, talking and saying hello to passers by. Sadly, Georgie Stevenson lost his battle with cancer at the young age of twelve.

During Georgie’s battle with cancer, he worked hard to raise money for the cause. Georgie won the Optimist-Man of the Year Award in 1979 from the Pottsville Optimist Club for all of his hard work. Since Georgie’s passing, his father George continued to work hard by helping the families of terminally ill children. Georgie’s younger brother, Chris Stevenson continues that tradition today.

The Georgie Stevenson Memorial is a very special event for race fans and drivers alike. Many drivers make a point of competing in this event yearly. BDR has presented this show annually in Georgie’s honor, and this season will be the 27th Stevenson Memorial event. Gates open at 5PM with the first heat grabbing the green at 7:30PM. Adult admission will be $17, Students (11-17) $15, Kids 10 and under Free. Rain checks will be good for the next three events and serve as a credit of $12 if used for the Georgie Stevenson Memorial event.

Looking ahead to Friday July 14, T102 presents Pack the House Night. This race was rained-out earlier in the season and the rescheduled date is arriving shortly. The 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and 600 Modifieds will make up the four division show. Adult general admission for this event is only $6. There will be a beach party and Hawaiian Shirt Contest, and all kinds of fun for the spectators on hand.

Big Diamond Raceway will host a special event for sprint car fans on Sunday July 16 presented by Mark's Mechanical of Orwigsburg, Pa. The Pa 305 sprint cars will be joined by the winged super sportsman division. Pit gates will open at 4:30 pm and racing begins at 6:30 pm.

NIGHTSIDE NOTES: Friday’s event just happened to be the second straight time in which the 600 Modified show was rained-out just prior to start time. They will return on July 14…The evenings sponsor Brinckman Coins of Souderton, Pa distributed collectible buffalo head nickels to youngsters as they entered the gate. One team that might have been happy with the cancellation was the Moose Eisenhard owned Frank Cozze driven #77. The team had to miss this Friday as the car is getting framework repairs. They are expected back for the Stevenson Memorial…Jeff Sechrist was driving the Guistwite #29 358 Modified rather than his #42…Open Practice is the next event at Big Diamond Raceway, Wednesday July 5th…


SIDEWAYS SUNDAY FOR SPRINT CARS SET TO INVADE BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY JULY 16

Big Diamond Raceway will host a special event for sprint car fans on Sunday July 16 presented by Mark's Mechanical of Orwigsburg, Pa.

The Pa 305 sprint cars will be joined by the winged super sportsman division. Pit gates will open at 4:30 pm and racing begins at 6:30 pm. More information about the Pa 305 sprint class may be obtained on their website at www.pa305sprints.com. Directions and track information is available at www.bigdiamondraceway.com


BIG DIAMOND SPEEDWAY CURRENT POINT STANDINGS AS OF 06/26/2006

358 MODIFIEDS COMPLETE POINT STANDINGS
1 #4…Duane Howard…Oley PA…930 (2)******
2 #88…Jeff Strunk…Bethel PA…875 (2)***
3 #6…Ryan Watt…Boyertown PA…775
4 #81…Kevin Hartnett…Perkasie PA…670 (1)
5 #00…Doug Manmiller…Wyomissing PA…670***
6 #1c…Craig Von Dohren…Oley PA…625****
7 #64W…John Willman…Birdsboro PA…570*
8 #33…Ray Swinehart…Bechtelsville PA…540*
9 #11D…Billy Pauch Jr…Frenchtown NJ…420 (1)*
10 #14…Rick Laubach…Hellertown PA…525**
11 #11…Meme DeSantis…Temple PA…505 (1)***
12 #8/#114…Doug Hendricks…Orwigsburg PA…445*
13 #16…Jason Hamilton…Erwinna PA…410
14 #117…Kevin Hirthler…Boyertown PA…410**
15 #42…Jeff Sechrist…Wernersville PA…405
16 #T102…Shawn Fitzpatrick…Pottsville PA…395
17 #221…Ryan Beltz…Schwenksville PA…365
18 #W9…Colt Harris…Gordon PA…325
19 #24H…Justin Andrews…Parryville PA…285
20 #44…Danny Erb…Boyertown PA…280
21 #77…Frank Cozze…Wind Gap PA…260*
22 #123…Roy Wiest…Elizabethville PA…215
23 #1450…Greg Weiland…Port Carbon PA…215
24 #118…Sean Merkel…Gilbertsville PA…190
25 #77…Doug Hoffman…Allentown PA…190
26 #71s…Sammy Schaeffer…Shoemakersville PA…180
27 #2…John Tschudy…Birdsboro PA…135
28 #9…Bruce Hirthler…Green Lane PA…130
29 #S1…Bobby Gunther-Walsh…Easton PA…130
30 #178…Neil Huber…Bethel PA…125
31 #357…Billy Pauch…Frenchtown NJ…110
32 #9R…Brian Weaver…Windsor NY…100
33 #27M…Kenny Eckert Jr…Minersville PA…85
34 #29…Kenny Brightbill…Sinking Springs PA…80
35 #102…Tim Fitzpatrick…Branchdale PA…80
36 #R6…Dale Roth…Schaefferstown PA…75*
37 #7JR…Jimmy Reppert…Hamburg PA…60
38 #10…Rich Wisdo…Elroy PA…55
39 #114…Carroll Hine III…Boyertown PA…55
40 #79…Amanda Spotts…Pennsburg PA…50
41 #37x…Tommy Scheetz…Pottstown PA…45
42 #17…Ryan Grim…Lehighton PA…45
43 #517…Steve Lozorak III…Spring City PA…45
44 #25…Ray Deemer…Phillipsburg NJ…40
45 #19B…Brent Boyer…Bloomsburg PA…25
46 #54W…Chris Warren…Jonestown PA…20
47 #83K…Bernie Kelly…Phillipsburg NJ…20
48 #69…Andy Fayash Jr…Mary-D PA…20
49 #70…Kurt Spotts…Pennsburg PA…15
50 #F15…Dale Hartz…Hamburg PA…15
51 #54…Billy Warren…Jonestown PA…15
52 #117x…Marty Shappell…Pottsville PA…10

SPORTSMAN COMPLETE POINT STANDINGS
1 #47…Gary Wagner Jr…Womelsdorf PA…870 (2)
2 #99/#3…Craig Whitmoyer…Hamburg PA…805 (1)***
3 #26…Tom Brennan…Pottsville PA…765 (1)***
4 #72…Ray Woodall Jr…Pen Argyl PA…755**
5 #6JR…Kevin Beach…Llewellyn PA…680 (1)*
6 #19U…Jordan Umbenhauer…Richland PA…660*
7 #4…Mike Hughes…Riegelsville PA…655 (1)*
8 #46…Josh Biever…Orwigsburg PA…605 (1)
9 #17…Billy Moyer Jr…Pine Grove PA…570*
10 #84…Leroy Long…Womelsdorf PA…550
11 #3…Luke Wagner…Grantville PA…530*
12 #14…Louie Mitchalk…Summit Hill PA…485 (1)*
13 #95…Fred Fisher…Sinking Springs PA…470
14 #17R…Kevin Nolf…Nazareth PA…445*
15 #71…Mike Mammana…Nazareth PA…435
16 #64…Andy Miller…Schuylkill Haven PA…430 (1)*
17 #221…Rob Gibson…Schuylkill Haven PA…410**
18 #917…Jarrad Miller…Barto PA…400 (1)*
19 #2…Rich Stankiewicz…Reading PA…360
20 #19…Brad Brightbill…Sinking Springs PA…300
21 #8…Brad Force…Sellersville PA…250
22 #88…Michael Bent…Alpha NJ…235*
23 11…AJ DeSantis…Temple PA…220
24 #13…James Morris…Riegelsville PA…200
25 #7x/#2…Scott Singley…Upper Black Eddy PA…160*
26 #21K/#64…Kyle Weiss…Hamburg PA…155
27 #56…Shawn Heistand…Leesport PA…150
28 #6…Craig Richards…Hamburg PA…125
29 #110…Bill Finneran…Mahanoy City PA…120*
30 #15J…John Purcell…Riegelsville PA…110
31 #0…Kevin Brady…Millersburg PA…110
32 #111…Archie Myers III…Stewartsville NJ…110
33 #94…Ricky Beavers…Pittstown NJ…100
34 #144…Donnie Miller…Northampton PA…100
35 #73…Darrel Herman…Allentown PA…90
36 #74…Pete Marburger…Reading PA…90
37 #31…Harry Landis…Nazareth PA…90
38 #77…Tom Miller…Gilbertsville PA…85
39 #39B…Lowell Snyder Jr…Erwinna PA…80
40 #67…Matt Krause…New Cumberland PA…80
41 #21…Dave Lauver…Palmyra PA…80
42 #113…Jeff Sterner…Bowmanstown PA…75
43 #5…Troy Loeb…70
44 #301…Jeff McCaughey…Blakeslee PA…70
45 #14R…Rick Hendricks…New Ringgold PA…70
46 #48…Jack Brink…Columbia NJ…55
47 #98…Tim Apgar…Milford NJ…50
48 #00…Gary Butler…45
49 #28…Tom Solderich…Bethlehem PA…40
50 #57…Ricky Rutt…Phillipsburg NJ…25
51 #61…Patrick Cozze…20
52 #5…Mike Finkbinder…15
53 #5W…Pat Wall…15
54 #71JR…Chris James Jr…Mohrsville PA…15
55 #5…Chase Mattioli…5
56 #84Y…Jamie Yankowski…5

ROADRUNNERS COMPLETE POINT STANDINGS
1 #66…Kevin Holland…Pine Grove PA…810 (2)
2 #45…Ryan Olenick…Forestville PA…790 (1)
3 #721…Jason Sherman…Tower City PA…775 (1)
4 #37…Eric Pinkerton…Tower City PA…745
5 #22…Tom Hablett…Schuylkill Haven PA…725 (1)
6 #19W…Derek Bender…Tremont PA…695*
7 #11…Dan Strenkoski…Llewellyn PA…655
8 #20…Corey Sechrist…Womelsdorf PA…655
9 #11x…Joey Hendricks…Auburn PA…610
10 #555…Elvin Brennan III…Forestville PA…610
11 #712…Jeremy Becker…Pottsville PA…600 (1)
12 #101…Gary Renninger…Pottsville PA…575
13 #z71…Andy Zvorsky…Orwigsburg PA…565
14 #00…Tory Jenkins…Schuylkill Haven PA…550 (1)
15 #550…Kevin Olenick…Forestville PA…540*
16 #11K…Kirby Schlappich…Temple PA…435 (1) *
17 #17V…Bud Vidal Jr…Pottsville PA…320*
18 #03…Sterling Moyer…Pine Grove PA…295
19 #77…Andrew Fayash III…Mary-D PA…285
20 #29B…Ricky Bender…Joliett PA…280
21 #23…Kyle Somers…Schuylkill Haven PA…255*
22 #711…Bobby Ditzler…150
23 #1G…Josh Generella…Schuylkill Haven PA…60
24 #93…Rob Pyle…Downingtown PA…40

( )...DENOTES FEATURE WINS
*...DENOTES HEAT WINS


COMING EVENTS:
Friday June 30, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS
Wednesday July 5, 7:30PM – OPEN PRACTICE.
Friday July 7, 7:30PM – JACK RICH INC. GEORGIE STEVENSON MEMORIAL, 358 MODIFIEDS (40-LAPS), SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS
Friday July 14, 7:30PM – T102 PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT- ADULT GENERAL ADMISSION ONLY $6 FOR THIS EVENT. 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS
Sunday July 16, 6:30PM – WINGED SUPER SPORTSMAN, PA 305 SPRINT CARS.


HARTNETT HOLDS OFF HOWARD FOR FIRST VICTORY OF THE SEASON…MILLER, BECKER, AND ROCHELLE ARE ALSO WINNERS
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – June 23, 2006 – Kevin Hartnett of Perkasie held off Duane Howard through traffic of the closing feature laps to score his first 358 Modified 25-lap feature win of the season at Big Diamond Raceway. It was Hartnett’s first Diamond triumph since April 6, 2003, and sixth career victory.

Jarrad Miller of Barto registered his first career victory in the 20-lap Sportsman feature. Jeremy Becker of Pottsville powered to his initial 15-lap Roadrunner triumph, while Jason Rochelle of Heckettstown NJ won a hard fought Central PA Legends Cars 20-lap feature.

Mother Nature worked cooperatively with BDR for Friday’s festivities, which were sponsored by Zeigler Roofing/Leesport Bank/Big Brothers, Big Sisters. Rain stayed away during a good portion of the evening, and the skies let loose just as the final feature event was taking the checkered flag. The four division program was completed by 11PM.

Bobby Gunther-Walsh led the opening tour of the 358 Modified main event. Contact on a restart found Walsh suffering a right rear flat tire. Rookie competitor, Doug Hendricks became the new race leader for lap two. Hartnett followed Hendricks in pursuit and challenged the leader. The duo raced side-by-side across the start/finish line to score lap five. Hartnett secured the top position as they darted into turn one of the sixth circuit.

While Hartnett continued to lead followed by Hendricks, a familiar story was shaping through the top five. Jeff Strunk (started 14th) and points leader Duane Howard (from 15th) were making their way into the front running mix. Strunk and Howard advanced into third and fourth respectively on lap 8. After 13 laps had been completed, however, Strunk dropped from the pace with a flat tire.

On the lap 14 restart, Hartnett remained in front while Howard immediately worked past Hendricks for second. The remaining laps were completed caution-free. Hartnett eventually caught traffic and worked through the machinery with perfection. With five laps to go, Hartnett held the advantage down the straightaways while Howard gained ground in the corners. On lap 22, Howard pulled alongside of Hartnett in turn four, but Hartnett remained the race leader.

This pattern continued as Hartnett raced through lapped traffic and Howard watched from the runner-up position. Hartnett was able to hold the five-time track champion off at the checkers. This was also a huge victory for Hartnett’s car owner Dennis Bailey, a six-time career feature winner and former small block modified champion at BDR.

Howard (Oley), driving the Chad Sinon Motorsports-4, held on for second. It was his seventh top five finish in eight events. Hendricks (Orwigsburg), driving the #114 car for the second straight race, powered to a career best finish of third. Billy Pauch Jr. (Frenchtown NJ) struggled earlier in the evening and had to qualify via the B-main. He charged from 22nd to 4th behind the wheel of Mike Dinatale’s No. 11D. Likewise, Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville) made the cut through his consolation, and raced from 19th to 5th.

Kevin Hirthler (Boyertown) was involved in an earlier incident and charged through to finish sixth. Rick Laubach (Hellertown) pitted for a right front flat tire early and managed a final result of seventh. John Willman (Birdsboro) ran within the top five for the opening 13 laps, and ended up eighth. Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing) survived through an eventful evening to finish ninth and Strunk (Bethel) rebounded from the mid-race flat tire to grab tenth.

Archie Myers III (Sterwartsville NJ) started inside pole for the Sportsman A-Main. Former pavement racer, Jarrad Miller, quickly charged into the runner-up position behind Myers. Defending track champion, Tom Brennan, had started from 12th. Brennan worked into the top five by the 12th lap. He quickly worked the bottom of the race track and picked off positions one by one.

On a lap 16 restart, Brennan continued to find much success on the low groove. He worked past Miller to gain the runner-up spot. Brennan abruptly closed on the leader and looked to make an inside passing bid during the event’s closing stages. Myers grabbed the white flag with Brennan in his tire tracks. Heading into turn one, Brennan moved to the inside. Contact was made and Myers spun around to bring out the caution flag. Officials called Brennan on triggering the spin, and he was sent to the rear of the field. Brennan opted to retire from the race.

Miller aligned himself from the first position when green flag racing resumed. Points leader, Gary Wagner followed from second. Wagner charged to the high side in one and swept to the bottom in an attempt to grab the lead. Miller held him off and remained in front. Miller, in only his second season of Sportsman competition, became the eighth different Sportsman winner of the season.

Wagner (Womelsdorf) raced from 13th to 2nd. Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg) drove the family owned #99 to a third place finish. Ray Woodall Jr. (Pen Argyl) recorded his seventh top ten in eight events by finishing fourth. Luke Wagner (Grantville) nailed down his second straight top five for fifth. Rounding out the top ten were: Jordan Umbenhauer (Richland), Kevin Nolf (Nazareth), Kyle Weiss (Hamburg), Kevin Beach (Llewellyn), and Billy Moyer Jr. (Pine Grove)

Jeremy Becker started fifth and took command of the Roadrunner feature field on lap one. A hard crash in turn three of the first lap found Elvin Brennan III making contact with the wall. Brennan was not injured. Jason Sherman, who entered the night as points leader, was also involved and has now fallen to third in the standings.

Becker, a third year second generation racer, continued to show the way. Andy Zvorsky (Orwigsburg) moved into second on lap four. By lap seven, the top eight cars competed in close formation with Becker still in charge. On a lap 11 restart, Zvorsky just nipped Becker at the line to grab temporary control of the field. One lap later, Becker remained in the outside groove and passed Zvorsky.

At the finish, Becker denied the challenges from Zvorsky and grabbed his first ever Roadrunner feature win. Zvorsky finished second and Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven) raced from 14th to 3rd. Ryan Olenick (Forestville) powered from 15th to a final finish of 4th. Kevin Holland (Pine Grove) made a last lap pass to grab fifth, and Holland has also taken command of the point standings.

The Central PA Legends Cars made their first Big Diamond appearance since 1996. Their dirt tour is traveling to several different speedways in 2006. This trip to BDR was their first and only appearance of 2006 and they pulled a stellar field of 31 race cars.

A tremendous battle took place between the front running machines during the entire duration of the contest. Second generation talent, Jason Rochelle, grabbed the lead on lap one. He was joined by his team-ate Ronnie Dunstan on the 8th lap. Former Micro Sprint driver, Rodney Kistler, joined the front running pair in an exciting battle for victory.

Rochelle denied the challenges and held on to capture a victory. It was Rochelle’s ninth overall feature win of 2006. After a restart with two laps remaining, Dunstan (Coplay) pressured the leader but had to settle for second. Kistler (Allentown) remained in a close third place finish. Fourth year racer, Josh Morrow (Hamburg) ended up fourth. Randy Kissinger (Columbia) rounded out the top five.

On Friday evening June 30, Big Diamond Raceway presents a four division card of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and 600 Modifieds. The 600’s are slated to make their second competition BDR start of 2006. Tom Martocci of Kunkletown won their last event. The tradition of the Georgie Stevenson Memorial continues on Friday July 7. A 40-lap feature will be contested for the 358 Modifieds with $3000 going to the winner. All Friday night dates begin at 7:30PM. Gates open at 5:00PM.

It was officially announced that an added show will be presented on Sunday July 16th. The Winged Super Sportsman will be returning to BDR for a special program. The PA 305 Sprint Cars are also on the card, and this is the first ever appearance by the 305’s at BDR. Action begins at 6:30PM.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY SUMMARY – FRIDAY JUNE 23 2006
358 MODIFIEDS
25-LAP FEATURE: 1) Kevin Hartnett, 2) Duane Howard, 3) Doug Hendricks, 4) Billy Pauch Jr., 5) Ray Swinehart, 6) Kevin Hirthler, 7) Rick Laubach, 8) John Willman, 9) Doug Manmiller, 10) Jeff Strunk, 11) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 12) Jeff Sechrist, 13) Justin Andrews, 14) Greg Weiland, 15) Ryan Watt, 16) Jason Hamilton, 17) Roy Wiest, 18) Kenny Eckert Jr., 19) Bobby Gunther-Walsh, 20) Ryan Beltz, 21) Frank Cozze, 22) Chris Warren, 23) Colt Harris, 24) Meme DeSantis.
LAP LEADERS: Walsh (1), Hendricks (2-5), Hartnett (6-25)
HEAT RACE WINNERS: John Willman, Jeff Strunk, Kevin Hirthler.
B-MAIN WINNER: Ray Swinehart
Did Not Qualify: Carroll Hine III, Billy Warren, Marty Shappell, Amanda Spotts.

SPORTSMAN
20-LAP FEATURE: 1) Jarrad Miller, 2) Gary Wagner Jr., 3) Craig Whitmoyer, 4) Ray Woodall Jr., 5) Luke Wagner, 6) Jordan Umbenhauer, 7) Kevin Nolf, 8) Kyle Weiss, 9) Kevin Beach, 10) Billy Moyer Jr., 11) Leroy Long, 12) Rick Hendricks, 13) Bill Finneran III, 14) Archie Myers III, 15) Tom Brennan, 16) Josh Biever, 17) Kevin Brady, 18) Louie Mitchalk, 19) Rich Stankiewicz, 20) Brad Force, 21) Freddie Fisher, 22) Rob Gibson, 23) Patrick Cozze, 24) AJ DeSantis, 25) Pete Marburger.
LAP LEADERS: Myers (1-19), Miller (20)
HEAT RACE WINNERS: Kevin Nolf, Jarrad Miller, Ray Woodall Jr.

ROADRUNNERS
15-LAP FEATURE: 1) Jeremy Becker, 2) Andy Zvorsky, 3) Tom Hablett, 4) Ryan Olenick, 5) Kevin Holland, 6) Gary Renninger, 7) Tory Jenkins, 8) Eric Pinkerton, 9) Derek Bender, 10) Andrew Fayash III, 11) Bud Vidal Jr., 12) Kirby Schlappich, 13) Dan Strenkoski, 14) Ricky Bender, 15) Kevin Olenick, 16) Corey Sechrist, 17) Jason Sherman, 18) Elvin Brennan III, 19) Bobby Ditzler, 20) Kyle Somers.
LAP LEADERS: Becker (1-10), Zvorsky (11), Becker (12-15)
HEAT RACE WINNERS: Kevin Olenick, Kyle Somers.

LEGEND CARS
15-LAP FEATURE: 1) Jason Rochelle, 2) Ronnie Dunstan, 3) Rodney Kistler, 4) Josh Morrow, 5) Randy Kissinger, 6) Ricky Harring, 7) Bill Harris, 8) Greg Burd, 9) Mark Shaffer, 10) Andy Lupfer, 11) Tyler Bear, 12) Bob Murray, 13) Rick Brehm, 14) Ed Wentz, 15) Denny Willey, 16) Randy Fetterolf, 17) Pat McDermott, 18) Shawn Arndt, 19) Rodney Adams, 20) Rob Sobieski, 21) Clint Penkauskas, 22) Geremy Sheaffer, 23) Steven Nedercostek, 24) Pat Zellers.

LAP LEADERS: Rochelle (1-20)
HEAT RACE WINNERS: Ronnie Dunstan, Jason Rochelle, Ricky Harring.
B-MAIN WINNER: Steven Nedercostek.
Did Not Qualify: Robyn DeLabar, Terry Benner, John Schirk, Denny Rothermel, Kenny Keaton, John Shutt, Amy Staver.


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY
CURRENT POINT STANDINGS AS OF 06/17/2006

358 MODIFIEDS COMPLETE POINT STANDINGS
1 #4…Duane Howard…Oley PA…810 (2)******
2 #88…Jeff Strunk…Bethel PA…795 (2)**
3 #6…Ryan Watt…Boyertown PA…720
4 #1c…Craig Von Dohren…Oley PA…625****
5 #00…Doug Manmiller…Wyomissing PA…585***
6 #81…Kevin Hartnett…Perkasie PA…545
7 #11…Meme DeSantis…Temple PA…495 (1)***
8 #64W…John Willman…Birdsboro PA…480
9 #33…Ray Swinehart…Bechtelsville PA…435*
10 #14…Rick Laubach…Hellertown PA…430**
11 #11D…Billy Pauch Jr…Frenchtown NJ…420 (1)*
12 #16…Jason Hamilton…Erwinna PA…360
13 #221…Ryan Beltz…Schwenksville PA…335
14 #42…Jeff Sechrist…Wernersville PA…335
15 #8/#114…Doug Hendricks…Orwigsburg PA…330*
16 #T102…Shawn Fitzpatrick…Pottsville PA…320
17 #W9…Colt Harris…Gordon PA…310
18 #117…Kevin Hirthler…Boyertown PA…310*
19 #44…Danny Erb…Boyertown PA…280
20 #77…Frank Cozze…Wind Gap PA…235*
21 #24H…Justin Andrews…Parryville PA…220
22 #118…Sean Merkel…Gilbertsville PA…190
23 #77…Doug Hoffman…Allentown PA…190
24 #71s…Sammy Schaeffer…Shoemakersville PA…180
25 #123…Roy Wiest…Elizabethville PA…170
26 #1450…Greg Weiland…Port Carbon PA…155
27 #2…John Tschudy…Birdsboro PA…135
28 #9…Bruce Hirthler…Green Lane PA…130
29 #178…Neil Huber…Bethel PA…125
30 #357…Billy Pauch…Frenchtown NJ…110
31 #9R…Brian Weaver…Windsor NY…100
32 #S1…Bobby Gunther-Walsh…Easton PA…65
33 #29…Kenny Brightbill…Sinking Springs PA…80
34 #102…Tim Fitzpatrick…Branchdale PA…80
35 #R6…Dale Roth…Schaefferstown PA…75*
36 #7JR…Jimmy Reppert…Hamburg PA…60
37 #10…Rich Wisdo…Elroy PA…55
38 #114…Carroll Hine III…Boyertown PA…50
39 #37x…Tommy Scheetz…Pottstown PA…45
40 #17…Ryan Grim…Lehighton PA…45
41 #79…Amanda Spotts…Pennsburg PA…45
42 #517…Steve Lozorak III…Spring City PA…45
43 #27M…Kenny Eckert…Minersville PA…45
44 #25…Ray Deemer…Phillipsburg NJ…40
45 #19B…Brent Boyer…Bloomsburg PA…25
46 #83K…Bernie Kelly…Phillipsburg NJ…20
47 #69…Andy Fayash Jr…Mary-D PA…20
48 #70…Kurt Spotts…Pennsburg PA…15
49 #F15…Dale Hartz…Hamburg PA…15
50 #54…Billy Warren…Jonestown PA…10
51 #117x…Marty Shappell…Pottsville PA…5

SPORTSMAN COMPLETE POINT STANDINGS
1 #47…Gary Wagner Jr…Womelsdorf PA…750 (2)
2 #26…Tom Brennan…Pottsville PA…710 (1)***
3 #99/#3…Craig Whitmoyer…Hamburg PA…690 (1)***
4 #4…Mike Hughes…Riegelsville PA…655 (1)*
5 #72…Ray Woodall Jr…Pen Argyl PA…645*
6 #6JR…Kevin Beach…Llewellyn…595 (1)*
7 #19U…Jordan Umbenhauer…Richland PA…560*
8 #46…Josh Biever…Orwigsburg PA…555 (1)
9 #17…Billy Moyer Jr…Pine Grove PA…490*
10 #84…Leroy Long…Womelsdorf PA…475
11 #95…Fred Fisher…Sinking Springs PA…445
12 #14…Louie Mitchalk…Summit Hill PA…330 (1)*
13 #71…Mike Mammana…Nazareth PA…435
14 #64…Andy Miller…Schuylkill Haven PA…430 (1)*
15 #3…Luke Wagner…Grantville PA…425*
16 #221…Rob Gibson…Schuylkill Haven PA…390**
17 #17R…Kevin Nolf…Nazareth PA…350
18 #2…Rich Stankiewicz…Reading PA…325
19 #19…Brad Brightbill…Sinking Springs PA…300
20 #917…Jarrad Miller…Barto PA…275*
21 #88…Michael Bent…Alpha NJ…235*
22 #8…Brad Force…Sellersville PA…220
23 11…AJ DeSantis…Temple PA…215
24 #13…James Morris…Riegelsville PA…200
25 #7x/#2…Scott Singley…Upper Black Eddy PA…160*
26 #56…Shawn Heistand…Leesport PA…150
27 #6…Craig Richards…Hamburg PA…125
28 #15J…John Purcell…Riegelsville PA…110
29 #94…Ricky Beavers…Pittstown NJ…100
30 #144…Donnie Miller…Northampton PA…100
31 #73…Darrel Herman…Allentown PA…90
32 #31…Harry Landis…Nazareth PA…90
33 #77…Tom Miller…Gilbertsville PA…85
34 #74…Pete Marburger…Reading PA…85
35 #39B…Lowell Snyder Jr…Erwinna PA…80
36 #67…Matt Krause…New Cumberland PA…80
37 #21…Dave Lauver…Palmyra PA…80
38 #113…Jeff Sterner…Bowmanstown PA…75
39 #5…Troy Loeb…70
40 #301…Jeff McCaughey…Blakeslee PA…70
41 #21K…Kyle Weiss…Hamburg PA…65
42 #0…Kevin Brady…Millersburg PA…65
43 #48…Jack Brink…Columbia NJ…55
44 #110…Bill Finneran…Mahanoy City PA…55*
45 #98…Tim Apgar…Milford NJ…50
46 #00…Gary Butler…45
47 #111…Archie Myers III…Stewartsville NJ…40
48 #28…Tom Solderich…Bethlehem PA…40
49 #57…Ricky Rutt…Phillipsburg NJ…25
50 #5…Mike Finkbinder…15
51 #5W…Pat Wall…15
52 #71JR…Chris James Jr…Mohrsville PA…15
53 #61…Patrick Cozze…5
54 #5…Chase Mattioli…5
55 #84Y…Jamie Yankowski…5

ROADRUNNERS COMPLETE POINT STANDINGS
1 #721…Jason Sherman…Tower City PA…730 (1)
2 #66…Kevin Holland…Pine Grove PA…705 (2)
3 #45…Ryan Olenick…Forestville PA…680 (1)
4 #37…Eric Pinkerton…Tower City PA…655
5 #19W…Derek Bender…Tremont PA…610*
6 #22…Tom Hablett…Schuylkill Haven PA…610 (1)
7 #11x…Joey Hendricks…Auburn PA…610
8 #20…Corey Sechrist…Womelsdorf PA…605
9 #11…Dan Strenkoski…Llewellyn PA…590
10 #555…Elvin Brennan III…Forestville PA…570
11 #550…Kevin Olenick…Forestville PA…485
12 #712…Jeremy Becker…Pottsville PA…475
13 #101…Gary Renninger…Pottsville PA…475
14 #00…Tory Jenkins…Schuylkill Haven PA…455 (1)
15 #z71…Andy Zvorsky…Orwigsburg PA…445
16 #11K…Kirby Schlappich…Temple PA…365 (1) *
17 #03…Sterling Moyer…Pine Grove PA…295
18 #17V…Bud Vidal Jr…Pottsville PA…245*
19 #23…Kyle Somers…Schuylkill Haven PA…225
20 #29B…Ricky Bender…Joliett PA…220
21 #77…Andrew Fayash III…Mary-D PA…205
22 #711…Bobby Ditzler…115
23 #1G…Josh Generella…Schuylkill Haven PA…60
24 #711…Bobby Ditzler…55
25 #93…Rob Pyle…Downingtown PA…40


COMING EVENTS:
Friday June 23, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, LEGENDS.
Friday June 30, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS
Friday July 7, 7:30PM – GEORGIE STEVENSON MEMORIAL.

STRUNK STORMS TO THIRD WIN OF THE SEASON; HUGHES, HOLLAND, AND MILLER VISIT VICTORY LANE
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – June 16, 2006 – Jeff Strunk of Bethel PA returned to victory circle for his third triumph of the season Friday night at the Big Diamond Raceway. Strunk’s victory in the 25-lap 358 Modified main event was the 28th of his illustrious BDR racing career.

It had been since 1998 when Mike Hughes picked up a pair of victories in the Sportsman division. This past Friday evening, Hughes of Riegelsville PA cashed in for his first 20-lap Sportsman main event victory of the season. It was his third career win.

Kevin Holland of Pine Grove PA registered his second points win of the season and third overall, after an open competition opening day victory. Holland actually crossed the line in second, however, when the apparent winner’s machine failed post race tech, Holland captured the win.

Mike Miller of Birdsboro PA won the 20-lap main event for the visiting ARDC wingless Midgets.

An opening 358 Modified feature tangle found six cars tangle in turn two, which reshuffled the starting order. Justin Andrews (Parryville) led the opening three tours of the contest. Frank Cozze (Wind Gap) worked past the second generation racing talent on the fourth lap, and became the new race leader. Strunk, who originally started thirteenth, followed Cozze into the runner-up position.

A lap eleven restart would prove to be the deciding factor for Strunk. Cozze chose the outside for the ensuing restart. Despite Cozze’s decision, Strunk remained strong on the inside. Strunk grabbed the lead from Cozze on lap 11, and virtually never relinquished the spot.

Current points leader, Duane Howard (Oley), powered into the runner-up spot on a lap 12 restart. Racing would continue green throughout the remainder of the contest. Strunk and Howard placed space between themselves and third place Cozze. Strunk negotiated some traffic on the 21st lap and held some distance over second place Howard.

Strunk returned behind the wheel of the #88 car the previous week on June 9. This is the same machine that brought Strunk to victory lane for the opening two events of the 2006 season. Strunk has now won a total of five features aboard this car between two race tracks.

Howard, in Chad Sinon’s #4, settled for second. Billy Pauch Jr. (Frenchtown NJ), who started from back in 19th, made a late race maneuver into the third position. Cozze finished fourth while Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing) brought his self owned-00 to a final finish of fifth.

Heat winners in the 30-car field were Jeff Strunk, Duane Howard, and Rick Laubach. Billy Pauch Jr. won the B-Main.

Similar to the start of the Modified main event, the Sportsman feature also began with a multi-car tangle in turns one and two. Michael Bent (Alpha NJ) was the early race leader. Louie Mitchalk (Summit Hill) moved to the inside of Bent in the second corner of lap 7 to grab the lead.

The red flag was thrown after eight laps had been completed. Several cars made hard contact on the front stretch. Former feature winners Tom Brennan, Josh Biever, and Kevin Beach were each involved. Leroy Long’s machine was severely damaged in the rear-end area. No injuries were reported in the accident.

Hughes moved to the outside of Mitchalk on a lap nine restart to take command of the top spot. Mitchalk managed to close back on the leader late in the running. Just as Mitchalk was about to make a passing bid attempt, his car began to lose power and showed smoke on the final lap. Hughes guided the #4 machine to his first win of the season.

Luke Wagner (Grantville) returned to the driver’s seat this week after Craig Whitmoyer drove his car to the feature win on June 9. Wagner finished second. Mitchalk nursed his car across the line for third. Second generation racer, Jordan Umbenhauer (Richland) followed in fourth, while Billy Moyer Jr. (Pine Grove) rounded out the top five.

31 Sportsman were on hand with heat wins going to Tom Brennan, Michael Bent, and Craig Whitmoyer. The B-Main winner was Luke Wagner.

Andy Fayash III led two laps of the Roadrunner feature before recent newcomer Kyle Somers took the lead. Fayash dashed back ahead of Somers on the fifth lap. On a lap 6 restart, Andy Zvorsky powered ahead of Fayash to assume command of the field. Zvorsky remained in front throughout the event’s remaining duration.

Zvorsky crossed first for the apparent victory. In post race tech, however, the #z71 of Zvorsky was disqualified for having the wrong gears in the rear of the car. Kevin Holland had run a fine event as he followed Zvorsky across the line. With Zvorsky’s DQ, Holland was awarded the victory.

Corey Sechrist (Womelsdorf) grabbed a season’s best finish of second. Ryan Olenick (Forestville) finished third, while Kyle Somers (Schuylkill Haven) ended up fourth. Joey Hendricks (Auburn) was the fifth place finisher. Fayash had crossed the line fifth, but he was also disqualified in post race tech for an illegal exhaust.

Heat winners in the 20 car field were Derek Bender and Andy Zvorsky.

Mike Miller assumed command of the ARDC Midget field at the hal-way point of their 20-lap feature. Miller, a former standout in Micro Sprint competition continued on to score his first victory of 2006. Rounding out the top five were Eric Heydenreich, Billy Pauch Jr., Steve Lenig, and Dave Ely (who started from last-25th).

Seltzer Insurance Agency sponsored the evening’s festivities. Fans paid their normal Adult General Admission price of $12 to see the extra added division, ARDC Midgets, along with the weekly regular three classes.

Racing continues this Friday night June 23 with a four division program of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and Legends. Gates open at 5PM with the first heat taking the green at 7:30PM.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY SUMMARY – FRIDAY JUNE 16 2006
358 MODIFIED FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Jeff Strunk, 2) Duane Howard, 3) Billy Pauch Jr., 4) Frank Cozze, 5) Doug Manmiller, 6) Ryan Watt, 7) Meme DeSantis, 8) Kevin Hartnett, 9) Colt Harris, 10) John Willman, 11) Justin Andrews, 12) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 13) Jeff Sechrist, 14) Ryan Beltz, 15) Sammy Schaeffer, 16) Craig Von Dohren, 17) Doug Hendricks, 18) Jason Hamilton, 19) Roy Wiest, 20) Bobby Gunther-Walshm 21) Bruce Hirthler, 22) Kein Hirthler, 23) Rick Laubach, 24) Ray Swinehart.
Did Not Qualify: Billy Warren, Andy Fayash Jr., Dale Roth, Ken Eckert Jr., Greg Weiland, Dale Hartz.

SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Mike Hughes, 2) Luke Wagner, 3) Louie Mitchalk, 4) Jordan Umbenahuer, 5) Billy Moyer Jr., 6) Craig Whitmoyer, 7) Ray Woodall Jr., 8) Tom Brennan, 9) Brad Force, 10) Gary Wagner Jr., 11) Kevin Nolf, 12) Andy Miller, 13) AJ DeSantis, 14) Michael Bent, 15) Leroy Long, 16) Kevin Beach, 17) Mike Mammana, 18) Josh Biever, 19) Rich Stankiewicz, 20) Fred Fisher, 21) Ricky Rutt, 22) Rob Gibson, 23) Jarrad Miller. DNS: Archie Myers III.
Did Not Qualify: Craig Richards, James Morris, Jeff Sterner, Kevin Brady, Chase Mattioli, Pete Marburger, Harry Landis.

ROADRUNNER FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Kevin Holland, 2) Corey Sechrist, 3) Ryan Olenick, 4) Kyle Somers, 5) Joey Hendricks, 6) Derek Bender, 7) Jason Sherman, 8) Kevin Olenick, 9) Elvin Brennan III, 10) Eric Pinkerton, 11) Gary Renninger, 12) Ricky Bender, 13) Dan Strenkoski, 14) Bobby Ditzler, 15) Tom Hablett, 16) Sterling Moyer, 17) Bud Vidal Jr., 18) Tory Jenkins. DQ: Andy Zvorsky, Andy Fayash III


COMING EVENTS:
Friday June 16, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, ARDC MIDGETS.
Friday June 23, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, LEGENDS.
Friday June 30, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS


SELTZER INSURANCE AGENCY INC. PRESENTS ARDC MIDGETS AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY WITH NO INCREASE IN ADMISSION AS PART OF FAN APPRECIATION NIGHT JUNE 16

Forestville, PA – June 13, 2006 – In an agreement that was just finalized late Monday evening, Seltzer Insurance Agency of Schuylkill County will present the ARDC midgets at Big Diamond Raceway this Friday evening June 16 with no increase in admission as part of fan appreciation night at Big Diamond.

"It is a great gesture on the part of Seltzer Insurance Agency to allow us to present the exciting ARDC midget series at Big Diamond Raceway with no increase in admission to our race fans." said track management member Buddy Biever.

"Seltzer Insurance has been a wonderful backer in our efforts here at Big Diamond and they once again have stepped up in a big way to reward the race fans with an exceptional night of racing action at a low ticket cost of $12 for adults, students (11-17 yrs) & seniors(over 60) $10, kids 10 & under are free." Directions and other information can be found at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

The Seltzer Insurance Agency, Inc. has been providing insurance to Schuylkill County and surrounding areas for over 50 years. Seltzer Insurance Agency grew from one office in Orwigsburg, to a second in Andreas and yet another in Pottsville. They are available on the web at www.seltzerinsurance.com.

Press Release from ARDC-----
Now in its 67th year, the ARDC series visits the Big Diamond Raceway, near Minersville, PA, this Friday, June 16th.

The midgets last visited Big Diamond in August of 2006, staging a wildly competitive Twin 20's affair, with Mike Miller and Steve Buckwalter emerging victorious. With Big Diamond's extremely racy new clay surface, the wingless midgets should put on an even more exciting show this Friday.

The cars and stars of the ARDC will broadslide their way through qualifying heats and a 20-lap feature at the spruced up facility. Gates will open at 5 p.m. Warm-ups take place at 7:00, and the first heat goes green at 7:30.

Current point leader Andy Martin, who waged a stellar battle with Steve Buckwalter in last year's nightcap at Big Diamond, will lead the troops into battle this Friday. Martin, driving a car out of Mike Miller's stable at Diamond, actually flipped in the first 20-lapper but came back to finish 6th in that race. In the second feature, the Gordonville Flash led early, then traded slide jobs with Buckwalter before settling for runner-up honors.

Martin, who raced his way to last year's ARDC Rookie of the Year title, has one victory so far in 2006. Buckwalter and Donnie Trent have also scored single triumphs this season, trailing the six-time and defending ARDC Champion, Ray Bull. Bull has won twice in the first five events, at Williams Grove and Orange County.


Current Big Diamond Raceway Points as of 6-10-2006

358 MODIFIEDS COMPLETE POINT STANDINGS
1 #4…Duane Howard…Oley PA…690 (2)*****
2 #88…Jeff Strunk…Bethel PA…670 (2)*
3 #6…Ryan Watt…Boyertown PA…620
4 #1c…Craig Von Dohren…Oley PA…575****
5 #00…Doug Manmiller…Wyomissing PA…480***
6 #81…Kevin Hartnett…Perkasie PA…455
7 #33…Ray Swinehart…Bechtelsville PA…425*
8 #14…Rick Laubach…Hellertown PA…415*
9 #64W…John Willman…Birdsboro PA…400
10 #11…Meme DeSantis…Temple PA…400 (1)***
11 #16…Jason Hamilton…Erwinna PA…320
12 #11D…Billy Pauch Jr…Frenchtown NJ…305 (1)*
13 #117…Kevin Hirthler…Boyertown PA…290*
14 #8…Doug Hendricks…Orwigsburg PA…285*
15 #44…Danny Erb…Boyertown PA…280
16 #221…Ryan Beltz…Schwenksville PA…275
17 #42…Jeff Sechrist…Werenersville PA…270
18 #T102…Shawn Fitzpatrick…Pottsville PA…250
19 #W9…Colt Harris…Gordon PA…225
20 #118…Sean Merkel…Gilbertsville PA…190
21 #77…Doug Hoffman…Allentown PA…190
22 #1450…Greg Weiland…Port Carbon PA…150
23 #24H…Justin Andrews…Parryville PA…145
24 #2…John Tschudy…Birdsboro PA…135
25 #123…Roy Wiest…Elizabethville PA…135
26 #77…Frank Cozze…Wind Gap PA…125*
27 #71s…Sammy Schaeffer…Shoemakersville PA…125
28 #178…Neil Huber…Bethel PA…125
29 #357…Billy Pauch…Frenchtown NJ…110
30 #9…Bruce Hirthler…Green Lane PA…105
31 #9R…Brian Weaver…Windsor NY…100
32 #29…Kenny Brightbill…Sinking Springs PA…80
33 #102…Tim Fitzpatrick…Branchdale PA…80
34 #R6…Dale Roth…Schaefferstown PA…70*
35 #S1…Bobby Gunther-Walsh…Easton PA…65
36 #7JR…Jimmy Reppert…Hamburg PA…60
37 #10…Rich Wisdo…Elroy PA…55
38 #114…Carroll Hine III…Boyertown PA…50
39 #37x…Tommy Scheetz…Pottstown PA…45
40 #17…Ryan Grim…Lehighton PA…45
41 #79…Amanda Spotts…Pennsburg PA…45
42 #517…Steve Lozorak III…Spring City PA…45
43 #25…Ray Deemer…Phillipsburg NJ…40
44 #27M…Kenny Eckert…Minersville PA…40
45 #19B…Brent Boyer…Bloomsburg PA…25
46 #83K…Bernie Kelly…Phillipsburg NJ…20
47 #69…Andy Fayash Jr…Mary-D PA…15
48 #70…Kurt Spotts…Pennsburg PA…15
49 #15…Dale Hartz…Hamburg PA…10
50 #54…Billy Warren…Jonestown PA…5
51 #117x…Marty Shappell…Pottsville PA…5

SPORTSMAN COMPLETE POINT STANDINGS
1 #47…Gary Wagner Jr…Womelsdorf PA…670 (2)
2 #26…Tom Brennan…Pottsville PA…620 (1)**
3 #99/#3…Craig Whitmoyer…Hamburg PA…590 (1)**
4 #72…Ray Woodall Jr…Pen Argyl PA…550*
5 #6JR…Kevin Beach…Llewellyn…545 (1)*
6 #4…Mike Hughes…Riegelsville PA…530*
7 #46…Josh Biever…515 (1)
8 #19U…Jordan Umbenhauer…Richland PA…450*
9 #84…Leroy Long…Womelsdorf PA…420
10 #95…Fred Fisher…Sinking Springs PA…415
11 #71…Mike Mammana…Nazareth PA…390
12 #17…Billy Moyer Jr…Pine Grove PA…385*
13 #221…Rob Gibson…Schuylkill Haven PA…370**
14 #64…Andy Miller…Schuylkill Haven PA…360*
15 #14…Louie Mitchalk…Summit Hill PA…330 (1)*
16 #3…Luke Wagner…Grantville PA…305*
17 #19…Brad Brightbill…Sinking Springs PA…300
18 #2…Rich Stankiewicz…Reading PA…290
19 #17R…Kevin Nolf…Nazareth PA…275
20 #917…Jarrad Miller…Barto PA…260*
21 #13…James Morris…Riegelsville PA…195
22 #88…Michael Bent…Alpha NJ…175
23 #7x/#2…Scott Singley…Upper Black Eddy PA…160*
24 #56…Shawn Heistand…Leesport PA…150
25 #11…AJ DeSantis…Temple PA…150
26 #8…Brad Force…Sellersville PA…135
27 #6…Craig Richards…Hamburg PA…120
28 #15J…John Purcell…Riegelsville PA…110
29 #94…Ricky Beavers…Pittstown NJ…100
30 #144…Donnie Miller…Northampton PA…100
31 #73…Darrel Herman…Allentown PA…90
32 #77…Tom Miller…Gilbertsville PA…85
33 #31…Harry Landis…Nazareth PA…85
34 #39B…Lowell Snyder Jr…Erwinna PA…80
35 #74…Pete Marburger…Reading PA…80
36 #67…Matt Krause…New Cumberland PA…80
37 #21…Dave Lauver…Palmyra PA…80
38 #5…Troy Loeb…70
39 #301…Jeff McCaughey…Blakeslee PA…70
40 #113…Jeff Sterner…Bowmanstown PA…70
41 #21K…Kyle Weiss…Hamburg PA…65
42 #0…Kevin Brady…Millersburg PA…60
43 #48…Jack Brink…Columbia NJ…55
44 #110…Bill Finneran…Mahanoy City PA…55*
45 #98…Tim Apgar…Milford NJ…50
46 #00…Gary Butler…45
47 #28…Tom Solderich…Bethlehem PA…40
48 #111…Archie Myers III…Stewartsville NJ…40
49 #5…Mike Finkbinder…15
50 #5W…Pat Wall…15
51 #71JR…Chris James Jr…Mohrsville PA…15
52 #61…Patrick Cozze…5
53 #84Y…Jamie Yankowski…5

ROADRUNNERS COMPLETE POINT STANDINGS
1 #721…Jason Sherman…Tower City PA…635 (1)
2 #66…Kevin Holland…Pine Grove PA…580 (1)
3 #37…Eric Pinkerton…Tower City PA…575
4 #45…Ryan Olenick…Forestville PA…565 (1)
5 #22…Tom Hablett…Schuylkill Haven PA…555 (1)
6 #11…Dan Strenkoski…Llewellyn PA…525
7 #19W…Derek Bender…Tremont PA…510
8 #11x…Joey Hendricks…Auburn PA…505
9 #555…Elvin Brennan III…Forestville PA…485
10 #20…Corey Sechrist…Womelsdorf PA…485
11 #712…Jeremy Becker…Pottsville PA…475
12 #z71…Andy Zvorsky…Orwigsburg PA…445
13 #00…Tory Jenkins…Schuylkill Haven PA…415 (1)
14 #101…Gary Renninger…Pottsville PA…400
15 #550…Kevin Olenick…Pottsville PA…395
16 #11K…Kirby Schlappich…Temple PA…365 (1) *
17 #03…Sterling Moyer…Pine Grove PA…245
18 #77…Andrew Fayash III…Mary-D PA…205
19 #17V…Bud Vidal Jr…Pottsville PA…200*
20 #29B…Ricky Bender…Joliett PA…150
21 #23…Kyle Somers…Schuylkill Haven PA…115
22 #1G…Josh Generella…Schuylkill Haven PA…60
23 #711…Bobby Ditzler…55
24 #93…Rob Pyle…Downingtown PA…40
25 #17…Jason Hernley…Jonestown PA…5

( )...DENOTES FEATURE WINS
*...DENOTES HEAT WINS


COMING EVENTS:
Friday June 16, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, ARDC MIDGETS.
Friday June 23, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, LEGENDS.
Friday June 30, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS

MIKE REICHERT AND STEVE WILSON SPLIT VICTORIES IN FIRST ENDURO EVENT OF THE SEASON
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – June 11, 2006 – Big Diamond Raceway held the first of three scheduled enduro programs this past Sunday evening under beautiful skies and weather conditions. Mike Reichert of Auburn PA won the 100-lap 6/8 cylinder race, while Steve Wilson of Lansdale PA emerged victorious in the 50-lap 4-cylinder contest.

Reichert’s win was his first triumph in Big Diamond Enduro competition, however, Reichert is no stranger to victory lane. During the 90’s Reichert captured ten career feature victories in Roadrunner competition.

Another former Roadrunner driver, Rodney Ulsh, grabbed the early race lead from Reichert on lap three. Ulsh’s motor was breaking up around the half-way point of the contest, and he eventually retired pitside on lap 75. Reichert led the remainder of the event and scored the victory.

12 of the 29 starting cars were left at the finish. Mark Paine crossed the line behind Reichert, however, he was disqualified in post race tech. Younger brother to the winner, Chris Reichert of Auburn, is a past Roadrunner feature winner at Big Diamond and the closed Penn National (PA) Speedway. Chris completed the brother sweep with a second.

Rounding out the top five were Sam Detweiler of Schuylkill Haven, Kirby Schlappich of Temple (who had a flat right rear and eventually no tire for the last 25 laps), and second generation driver Jamie Naftzinger of Auburn.

What the four-cylinder division lacked in number, they certainly made up for in excitement. Six cars raced in their event, and the drivers decided that they would go a distance of 50-laps. Wilson and Serafino Raggi of Wilkes Barre exchanged the lead several times.

Wilson secured the lead for keeps on lap 16. He led the remainder of the contest and won by a safe margin. Raggi, a former racer at the closed Lake Moc-A-Tec Speedway, finished second. The event was completed in about 20 minutes. Chris Spotts of East Greenville finished third and he was followed by Jesse Wagner of Hegins and Chris Holland of Pine Grove.

The four cylinder division is expected to grow. The drivers on hand indicated that they will be bringing more cars and spreading the word. Big Diamond’s second enduro program of the season will take place on Sunday August 13.

This Friday night June 16, the ARDC Midgets will make their first Big Diamond appearance of the season. Joining ARDC are the 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners. Adult General Admission prices will remain the same at $12.

Big Diamond Raceway – Results – Sunday June 11, 2006
6/8 CYLINDER ENDURO (100-LAPS): 1) Mike Reichert, 2) Chris Reichert, 3) Sam Detweiler, 4) Kirby Schlappich, 5) Jamie Naftzinger, 6) Steve Schaffer, 7) Milton Luckenbill Jr., 8) Ricky Bender, 9) Joe Costello, 10) Mark Zipp, 11) Doug Naftzinger, 12) Amanda Spotts, 13) Jason Robbins, 14) TJ Fitzpatrick, 15) Rodney Ulsh, 16) Brad Krause, 17) Phil Levering, 18) Keith Ownes, 19) Curt LaFollette, 20) Chuck Dietzel, 21) Ryan Olenick, 22) Jeff Krause, 23) Ralph Bankes Jr., 24) Ralph Bankes, 25) Kevin Olenick, 26) Bob Wink, 27) Brian Conrad, 28) Jason Bowers. DQ: Mark Paine.

4 CYLINDER ENDURO (50-LAPS): 1) Steve Wilson, 2) Serafino Raggi, 3) Chris Spotts, 4) Jesse Wagner, 5) Chris Holland, 6) Kevan Schaeffer.


THANK YOU TO OUR FANS AND COMPETITORS

On behalf of the entire Big Diamond Raceway management team and staff
we would like to thank all of the race fans, families, and competitors
who attended and supported us in our decision to race and get the
program in on Friday evening June 9.

We would also like to thank Yuengling Brewery of Pottsville and Jones &
Company for their sponsorship involvement and giveaways.

The night turned out to be a fantastic action filled event for everyone
involved and without all of your support we know we could not have made
this happen. All of us here at Big Diamond Raceway firmly believe that
through our front gate walks the worlds greatest race fans.

We appreciate your support...
Big Diamond Raceway


COMING EVENTS:
Sunday June 11, – 6:30PM – ENDURO. 4CYL AND 6/8 CYL. GENERAL ADMISSION JUST $5.
Friday June 16, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, ARDC MIDGETS.
Friday June 23, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, LEGENDS.
Friday June 30, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS


DESANTIS WAITS OUT THE RAIN AND CAPTURES FIRST WIN OF THE SEASON; WHITMOYER AND SCHLAPPICH ALSO VICTORIOUS
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – June 9, 2006 – Meme DeSantis of Temple PA grabbed his first 358 Modified feature victory of the season Friday night at the Big Diamond Raceway. DeSantis became the fourth different Modified feature winner of 2006. It was his sixteenth career win at the three-eighth’s mile clay oval.

Craig Whitmoyer of Hamburg PA captured the lead late in the running of Friday’s 20-lap Sportsman feature. Driving the Luke Wagner owned #3 for only the second time, Whitmoyer cruised to victory circle. The triumph was Whitmoyer’s sixteenth career victory, as well, which ranks first on the Sportsman all-time winner’s list.

Kirby Schlappich of Temple PA kept a talented array of competition behind him en route to a season’s first 15-lap Roadrunner feature victory. It was Schlappich’s second career score.

Mother Nature had conquered the previous pair of Friday night events. When this week’s program was about to begin, it appeared as if the weather would once again be the deciding factor. Rain soaked the facility’s grounds prior to the 7:30PM starting time.

The track crew worked feverishly to bring the surface back to its racing life. Then, the cars were called to the speedway and the drivers successfully ran in the speedway. After a two hour rain delay, racing would start just past 9:30PM. The event (which was sponsored by Yuengling Brewery and Jones & Co. Accounting Services) was completed in just three hours.

Twenty-six drivers took the initial green flag for the 25-lap 358 Modified main event. Roy Wiest grabbed the opening lead. Wiest was the speedway’s first track champion back in 1972, and also holds twenty-one career feature victories. Wiest’s Troyer-123 led the opening eight tours of the feature.

On a lap nine restart, Shawn Fitzpatrick powered into the race lead with his Bicknell-T102. DeSantis, who originally started from twelfth, followed Fitzpatrick abruptly into the runner-up spot. The duo raced side-by-side across the start/finish line to record lap eleven. In turns one and two of lap twelve, DeSantis secured the top spot. Fitzpatrick’s fine run ended shortly as his machine lost power into the infield.

Jeff Strunk, driving the #88 car for this event, had started the contest from fifteenth. He improved to second on lap twelve behind the race leader, DeSantis. Lapped traffic would become an issue over the closing moments. By the twenty-second circuit, DeSantis was negotiating through heavy lapped machinery, and Strunk watched from the runner-up spot.

On the final lap, Strunk was able to gain ground on the leader. DeSantis remained in front, however, and cruised to his second overall SBM win of the season. Rounding out the top five were Strunk (Bethel), current points leader Duane Howard (Oley), Ryan Watt (Boyertown), and Craig Von Dohren (Oley).

34 cars entered the evening’s card. Heat winners were Howard, Kevin Hirthler, Dale Roth, and Frank Cozze. The B-Main winner was Rick Laubach.

Rob Gibson started outside pole in the Sportsman feature. Gibson, a former stand-out in karting competition, was the early show star. Gibson ran a flawless race up front and led over half of the 20-lap contest.

Meanwhile, Craig Whitmoyer was adjusting to his second ever ride in the Wagner-3 Dodge powered machine. Whitmoyer started tenth and entered the top five on lap seven. He advanced into the runner-up position on lap thirteen. A restart with five laps to go would set up a late race battle for the lead.

Gibson remained in front with Whitmoyer challenging from second. On lap seventeen, Gibson and Whitmoyer raced side-by-side through turns one and two, and down the backstretch. In turns three and four, Whitmoyer grabbed the lead while racing on the low groove.

A pair of late race cautions would not keep Whitmoyer from victory lane, as he held on to capture his first win of the season. Gibson (Schuylkill Haven) finished second over Jordan Umbenhauer (Richland), Tom Brennan (Pottsville), and James Morris (Riegelsville).

Heats for the 28 Sportsman in the show were won by Rob Gibson, Bill Finneran, and Ray Woodall Jr. The B-Main was won by Brad Brightbill.

Second generation racer Kyle Somers led the opening lap of the Roadrunner feature. Schlappich took command on lap two. The battle up front continued throughout the context of the main event. Schlappich survived challenges from several different drivers, and remained in control.

A green restart took place with just three tours remaining. Schlappich nailed the accelerator on his Eastern Rigging-11 Nova and continued to lead. Schlappich, a veteran Roadrunner driver who makes the tow from Berks county every Friday night, held on to take his first win of the season.

Dan Strenkoski (Llewellyn) captured his second straight top five of the season as he finished second. Rounding out the front five were Jason Sherman (Tower City), Joey Hendricks (Auburn), and Kevin Holland (Pine Grove). Heat wins went to Kirby Schlappich and rookie Bud Vidal Jr.

Since Mother Nature moistened the infield earlier in the evening, victory lane was held on the front stretch in front of the starter’s stand. This is where the winner’s circle was located back in Diamond’s early days.

Big Diamond Raceway presents their first Enduro of the 2006 season this Sunday evening June 11. The 6/8 cylinder class will compete in a 100-lap event, while the 4 cyl distance will be determined by the amount of vehicles entered. Action starts at 6:30PM. The ARDC Midgets return to Big Diamond for their first appearance of 2006 next Friday June 16th along with the regular three division classes.

358 MODIFIED FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Meme DeSantis, 2) Jeff Strunk, 3) Duane Howard, 4) Ryan Watt, 5) Craig Von Dohren, 6) Frank Cozze, 7) Doug Manmiller, 8) Roy Wiest, 9) Ryan Beltz, 10) Rick Laubach, 11) Kevin Hartnett, 12) John Willman, 13) Ray Swinehart, 14) Jeff Sechrist, 15) Danny Erb, 16) Doug Hendricks, 17) Sean Merkel, 18) Jason Hamilton, 19) Colt Harris, 20) Kevin Hirthler, 21) Justin Andrews, 22) Bobby Gunther-Walsh (1st alt), 23) Kenny Eckert, 24) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 25) Dale Roth, 26) Carroll Hine III. DNS: Billy Pauch Jr.
DID NOT QUALIFY: Bruce Hirthler, Amanda Spotts, Kurt Spotts, Marty Shappell, Billy Warren, Neil Huber, Dale Hartz.

SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Craig Whitmoyer, 2) Rob Gibson, 3) Jordan Umbenhauer, 4) Tom Brennan, 5) James Morris, 6) Andy Miller, 7) Mike Hughes, 8) Ray Woodall Jr., 9) Gary Wagner Jr., 10) Kevin Beach, 11) Rich Stankiewicz, 12) Troy Loeb, 13) Brad Force, 14) Josh Biever, 15) Mike Mammana, 16) Fred Fisher, 17) Bill Finneran, 18) Kevin Brady, 19) Billy Moyer Jr., 20) Brad Brightbill, 21) Michael Bent, 22) Kevin Nolf, 23) Leroy Long, 24) Harry Landis.
DID NOT QUALIFY: Patrick Cozze, Pete Marburger, Louie Mitchalk, Dave Lauver.

ROADRUNNER FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Kirby Schlappich, 2) Dan Strenkoski, 3) Jason Sherman, 4) Joey Hendricks, 5) Kevin Holland, 6) Andy Zvorsky, 7) Ryan Olenick, 8) Eric Pinkerton, 9) Tory Jenkins, 10) Elvin Brennan III, 11) Tom Hablett, 12) Kyle Somers, 13) Kevin Olenick, 14) Josh Generella, 15) Bobby Ditzler, 16) Gary Renninger, 17) Jeremy Becker, 18) Bud Vidal Jr., 19) Sterling Moyer, 20) Corey Sechrist, 21) Derek Bender.


COMING EVENTS:
Friday June 9, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS
Sunday June 11, – 6:30PM –FOUR CYLINDER ENDURO AND SIX/EIGHT CYLINDER ENDURO 100.
Friday June 16, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, ARDC MIDGETS.


T-102 $6 PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY RESCHEDULED FOR JULY 14

The previously rained out T102 (Pottsville) Pack the House Night will now take place on Friday night July 14. Adult general admission for this event is only $6. The 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and 600cc modifieds will be on the schedule making this event an exceptional value for race fans and first time visitors to Big Diamond. Gates open at 5PM, warm-ups 7:00 PM and heat racing taking the green at 7:30PM. For all the latest information on Big Diamond Raceway check out the track website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


Big Diamond Raceway - Quick Summary - June 6

COMING EVENTS:
Friday June 9, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS
Sunday June 11, – 6:30PM –FOUR CYLINDER ENDURO AND SIX/EIGHT CYLINDER ENDURO 100.
Friday June 16, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, ARDC MIDGETS.


PAUCH AND LYONS SHARE VICTORY LANE LAURELS TUESDAY NIGHT AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – June 6, 2006 – Billy Pauch won the 75-lap Modified feature, while Mike Lyons captured the 40-lap Sportsman main event victory Tuesday night at the Big Diamond Raceway. The BPG, Inc. Race of Champions Dirt South Tour visited Diamond for the first time this season.
Pauch took the the top spot on lap 63, when race leader Jimmy Horton was forced pitside with a flat tire. Pauch earned $4000 for his efforts. Meanwhile, Lyons seized command of the Sportsman field on lap three and held off a number of racers to record his first career Diamond Sportsman win worth $1000.
The $500 small-block bonus went to the top finishing 358-Modified in the Mod main event. Ray Swinehart, returning behind the wheel of the Guistwite-29, finished second and earned the extra bonus.
A full RoC race report from Brett Deyo of RoC PR will follow shortly.

BPG, INC. RoC DIRT SOUTH MODIFIED TOUR FEATURE (75-LAPS)
1) #357-Billy Pauch-Frenchtown NJ 2) #29-Ray Swinehart-Bechtelsville PA 3) #4-Duane Howard-Oley PA 4) #14J-Alan Johnson-Phelps NY 5) #42H-Jimmy Horton-Neshanic Station NJ 6) #6-Ryan Watt-Boyertown PA 7) #44-Frank Cozze-Wind Gap PA 8) #11D-Billy Pauch Jr.-Frenchtown NJ 9) #00-Doug Manmiller-Wyomissing PA 10) #R24-Rick Grosso-Belle Mead NJ

BPG, INC. RoC DIRT SOUTH SPORTSMAN TOUR FEATURE (40-LAPS)
1) #M1-Mike Lyons-Cranberry NJ 2) #5-Jeff Sechrist-Wernersville PA 3) #21K-Kyle Weiss-Hamburg PA 4) #47-Gary Wagner Jr,-Womelsdorf PA 5) #15-Jason Hamilton-Erwinna PA 6) #17D-Mike Loney-Taylor PA 7) #7A-Gene Stravinsky-Flemington NJ 8) #17-Billy Moyer Jr.-Pine Grove PA 9) #44-John McClelland-Martinsville NJ 10) #14-Willie Osmun-Bloomsbury NJ


COMING EVENTS:
Tuesday June 6, 7:30PM– ROC DIRT MODIFIED TOUR. BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS (75-LAPS) AND SPORTSMAN (40-LAPS).
Friday June 9, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS
Sunday June 11, – 6:30PM –FOUR CYLINDER ENDURO AND SIX/EIGHT CYLINDER ENDURO 100.
Friday June 16, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, ARDC MIDGETS.


RAIN SPOILS PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – June 2, 2006 – For the second straight Friday, Mother Nature decided to spoil the evening’s festivities at the Big Diamond Raceway. Friday June 2 rain and downright ugly weather lingered over Schuylkill County. It led to the eventual cancellation of Friday’s card.

Plans are being made to find a suitable date for T-102 Pack The House Night. Details will follow when they become available.

This upcoming Tuesday June 6, the BPG Inc. sponsored Race of Champions Dirt Tour makes a traveling stop at Big Diamond. The Modifieds will run a 75-lap feature paying $4,000 to the winner, while the Sportsman teams will battle for 40-laps with for a $1,000 to win event. A $500 small-block bonus is available for the top-finishing 358-Mod in the Modified main.

The Big D. regulars will be equipped in full force as they will stage war with the RoC tour drivers. Duane Howard, Jeff Strunk, Ryan Watt, Craig Von Dohren, Meme DeSantis, Doug Manmiller, Rick Laubach, Ray Swinehart, Billy Pauch Jr., and Doug Hendricks are just a few of the Big D. representatives to watch for in this event.

Grandstand admission for the show is: $20 (Adults); $18 (Students 11-17 years old and Seniors over 60). Kids 10 and under are free.

Pit admission is $25. All competitors must register with RoC officials in order to participate. Entry forms are on the RoC Dirt website (www.rocdirt.com) and will be available at the track on race day.

Gates open at 5 p.m., with hot laps at 7 p.m. and racing at 7:30 p.m.

Friday night June 9 Big Diamond will present a regular three division card of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners. Gates open at 5PM with the first heat getting a green flag at 7:30PM.

Two days later on Sunday June 11, a 4-cylinder enduro and 6/8 cylinder enduro will be contested. Entry forms are available at www.bigdiamondraceway.com. Competitors are reminded that they are allowed to enter and compete in both the 4 cylinder and 6 and 8 cylinder events. The 6/ 8 cylinder event will be 100 laps and the 4 cylinder event distance will be determined by the number of cars entered. Gates open at 4pm, there will be a drivers meeting at 6pm and racing begins at 6:30pm. Grandstand admission will be $5 and kids 10 and under are free.

For more information on news and upcoming events at Big Diamond Raceway, check out their official website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


BIG DIAMOND IS RAINED OUT FOR FRIDAY JUNE 2

The program for Friday night June 2, has been cancelled due to rain.
Plans are being made to find a suitable date for T-102 Pack The House
Night. Details will follow when they become available.


BIG DIAMOND ENDURO PRE-REGISTRY DUE TUESDAY JUNE 6

Minersville, Pa- Just a reminder to competitors wishing to be eligible for the pre-race draw for the June 11 enduro event at Big Diamond Raceway, all entry forms must be returned by June 6. Entry forms are available at www.bigdiamondraceway.com as well as at the track this Friday night June 2. Competitors are reminded that they are allowed to enter and compete in both the 4 cylinder and 6 and 8 cylinder events. The 6 and 8 cylinder event will be 100 laps and the 4 cylinder event distance will be determined by the number of cars entered. Gates open at 4pm, there will be a drivers meeting at 6pm and racing begins at 6:30pm. Grandstand admission will be $5 and kids 10 and under are free.


COMING EVENTS:
Tuesday May 30, 7:00PM – OPEN PRACTICE, PITS $20, GRANDSTANDS FREE
Friday June 2, 7:30PM – T102 PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT. ADULT ADMISSION FOR THIS EVENT ONLY $6 FOR A FULL SHOW OF 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, VINTAGE CARS
Tuesday June 6 , 7:30PM– ROC DIRT MODIFIED TOUR. BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS 75 LAPS AND SPORTSMAN 40 LAPS
Friday June 9, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS


VINTAGE CAR RACERS INVITED TO T-102 PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT THIS FRIDAY AT BIG DIAMOND

Minersville, Pa- As part of T-102 pack the house night this Friday June 2, any vintage racer towing to Big Diamond Raceway will receive one free pit pass for the person hauling the car into the pits. All vintage cars are invited to display their racers and will run a 8-10 lap exhibition prior to intermission. Grandstand admission to Friday night's event is $6 as T-102 of Pottsville invites race fans to pack the house.


COMING EVENTS:
Tuesday May 30, 7:00PM – OPEN PRACTICE, PITS $20, GRANDSTANDS FREE
Friday June 2, 7:30PM – T102 PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT. ADULT GENERAL ADMISSION FOR THIS EVENT ONLY $6. 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, VINTAGE CARS.
Tuesday June 9, 7:30PM– ROC DIRT MODIFIED TOUR. BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS 75 LAPS AND SPORTSMAN 40 LAPS.
Friday June 9, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS


MOTHER NATURE SCORES THE OVERALL VICTORY FRIDAY EVENING AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – May 26, 2006 – Rain was the eventual winner on Friday night at the Big Diamond Raceway. Drivers were on the speedway for slow laps, and then the lingering showers began to make their presence known. Racing was eventually canceled at about 8:05PM.

Several drivers remained on the speedway and attempted to save the race track. Unfortunately, the rain would just not let up, and the drivers were eventually called to the pit area. The 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and 600 Modifieds were slated to be on the card.

This coming Tuesday evening, May 30, an Open Practice Session will be held. This is the second Test and Tune Session of 2006. Over 30 cars were on hand for the last practice.

Rain checks are good for the next four weeks. Of course, fans may want to hold onto their rain checks until after Friday night June 2nd. T102 (Pottsville) Pack the House Night will take place and adult general admission for this event is only $6. The 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and Vintage Cars are on the schedule. Gates open at 5PM with heat racing taking the green at 7:30PM.

Looking ahead to Tuesday June 6th, the popular RoC Dirt Modified Tour returns to Big Diamond Raceway. The Big Block Modifieds and Sportsman of RoC will be in the spotlight as the event will carry sponsorship from BPG Inc. Grandstand admission will be $20 for adults, students and seniors $18, kids 10 and under are free. Pit passes will be $25 with no membership required.

A regular three division show of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners will take place on Friday June 9. Two days later on Sunday June 11, the first Enduro of the season will be held. Official enduro rules and all other information can be found on the track’s official website, www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


REVISED - COMPLETE BIG DIAMOND SPEEDWAY POINTS AS OF 5/22

358 Modifieds Big Diamond Raceway
As of 5/23/2006 Year to Date Total Points
Total
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 4 Duane Howard 575
2. R1/102/18 Jeff Strunk 550
3. 6 Ryan Watt 510
4. 1C Craig Von Dohren 470
5. 00 Doug Manmiller 385
6. 81 Kevin Hartnett 380
7. 33 Ray Swinehart 360
8. 14 Rick Laubach 335
9. 64W John Willman 330
10. 11D Billy Pauch (Jr) 300
11. 16 Jason Hamilton 280
12. 11 Meme Desantis 275
13. 117 Kevin Hirthler 260
14. T102 Shawn Fitzpatrick 240
15. 8 Doug Hendricks 235
16. 44 Danny Erb 225
17. 42 Jeff Sechrist 210
18. 77 Doug Hoffman 190
19. 221 Ryan Beltz 190
20. W9 Colt Harris 190
21. 1450 Greg Weiland 150
22. 118 Sean Merkel 145
23. 2 John Tschudy 135
24. 71S Sam Schaeffer 125
25. 24H Justin Andrews 120
26. 178 Neil Huber 120
27. 357 Billy Pauch 110
28. 9R Brian Weaver 100
29. 9 Bruce Hirthler 100
30. 29 Kenny Brightbill 80
31. 102 Tim Fitzpatrick 80
32. 6R Dale Roth 65
33. 7JR Jimmy Reppert 60
34. 10 Rich Wisdo 55
35. 17 Ryan Grim 45
36. 37X Tommy Scheetz 45
37. 123 Roy Wiest 45
38. 114 Carroll Hine III 45
39. 517 Steve Lozorak III 45
40. 25 Ray Deemer 40
41. 79 Amanda Spotts 40
42. S1 Bobby Gunther-Walsh 40
43. 77 Frank Cozze 25
44. 19B Brent Boyer 25
45. 27M Ken Eckert Jr. 25
46. 83K Bernie Kelly 20
47. 69 Andrew Fayash Jr. 15
48. 70 Kurt Spotts 10
49. 15 Dale Hartz 5

Road Runners Big Diamond Raceway
As of 5/22/2006 Year to Date Total Points
Total
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
0 721 Jason Sherman 520
2. 19W Derek Bender 485
3. 37P Eric Pinkerton 485
4. 22 Tom Hablett 480
5. 66 Kevin Holland 475
6. 45 Ryan Olenick 470
7. 20 Corey Sechrist 455
8. 712 Jeremy Becker 430
9. 555 Elvin Brennan III 405
10. 11 Dan Strenkoski 405
11. 11X Joe Hendricks 395
12. 101 Gary Renninger 350
13. Z-71 Andy Zvorsky 345
14. 00 Tory Jenkins 330
15. 550 Kevin Olenick 330
16. 11K Kirby Schlappich 240
17. 03 Sterling Moyer 210
18. 77 Andrew Fayash III 205
19. 17V Bud Vidal Jr. 160
20. 29B Ricky Bender 150
21. 23 Kyle Somers 45
22. 93 Robert Pyle III 40

Sportsmen Big Diamond Raceway
As of 5/22/2006 Year to Date Total Points
Total
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 47 Gary Wagner Jr. 585
2. 26 Tom Brennan 510
3. 6 JR Kevin Beach Jr. 465
4. 99 Craig Whitmoyer 465
5. 72 Ray Woodall Jr. 460
6. 46 Josh Biever 455
7. 4 Mike Hughes 435
8. 84 LeRoy Long 405
9. 95 Freddie Fisher 365
10. 17 Billy Moyer Jr. 350
11. 71 Mike Mammana 335
12. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer 335
13. 14 Louie Mitchalk 325
14. 3 Luke Wagner 305
15. 19 Brad Brightbill 270
16. 64 Andy Miller 260
17. 917 Jarrad Miller 260
18. 17R Kevin Nolf 255
19. 221 Rob Gibson 250
20. 2 Rich Stankiewitz 215
21. 7X Scott Singley 160
22. 88 Michael Bent 150
23. 11 AJ Desantis 150
24. 56 Shawn Hiestand 150
25. 6C Craig Richards 120
26. 15J John Pursell 110
27. 94 Rick Beavers 100
28. 144 Donnie Miller 100
29. 73 Darrel Herman 90
30. 13 James Morris 90
31. 77 Tom Miller 85
32. 39 Lowell Snyder 80
33. 67 Matt Krause 80
34. 74 Pete Marburger 75
35. 31 Harry Landis 75
36. 21 Dave Lauver 75
37. 8 Brad Force 70
38. 301 Jeff McCaughey 70
39. 113 Jeff Sterner 70
40. 21K Kyle Weiss 65
41. 48 Jack Brink 55
42. 98 Tim Apgar 50
43. 00 Gary Butler 45
44. 28 Tom Solderich 40
45. 111 Archie Meyers III 40
46. 0 Kevin Brady 20
47. 5 Bashore Car 15
48. 5W Pat Wall 15
49. 71JR Chris James Jr. 15
50. 110 Bill Finneran III 10
51. 84Y Jamie Yankowski 5


COMING EVENTS:
Friday May 26, 7:30PM -- MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS
Tuesday May 30, 7:00PM – OPEN PRACTICE
Friday June 2, 7:30PM – T102 PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT. ADULT GENERAL ADMISSION FOR THIS EVENT ONLY $6. 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, VINTAGE CARS.

HOWARD EDGES DESANTIS ON FINAL LAP TO EARN VICTORY IN THRILLING FEATURE EVENT
WAGNER, OLENICK AND HOLLENBACH EACH GRAB VICTORIES

By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – May 19, 2006 – Duane Howard of Oley just edged Meme DeSantis of Temple at the finish to grab his second straight 358 Modified 25-lap feature victory of the season Friday night at Big Diamond Raceway. Howard, a five-time track champion, passed DeSantis on the final lap and won by about a wheel.

Gary Wagner Jr. of Womelsdorf captured his second Sportsman feature win of the season and extended his advantage in the ’06 point standings. Ryan Olenick of Forestville earned his first career triumph in the Roadrunner main event. Ed Hollenbach of Fredericksburg collected the win in the special 15-lap Four Cylinder feature.

Second generation racer, Dale Roth, led the early stages of the Modified main from his inside front row starting spot. Jeff Sechrist charged past Roth on the outside groove of a lap three restart and became the new race leader. DeSantis (started fifth) aligned himself in the runner-up position for the fourth circuit. Sechrist and DeSantis raced closely until the caution lights flashed with nine laps showing on the board.

Sechrist led on the restart, however, drifted slightly high in the third and fourth corners. DeSantis immediately took charge. Howard had started the contest from fifteenth and methodically worked through a talented array of competitors. Howard advanced into second on the seventeenth lap, while DeSantis continued to lead the field.

Howard remained within DeSantis’ rear tire tracks as the main event continued. A caution took place on the race’s final lap, which would set up a last lap shootout. DeSantis remained in front and Howard looked for passing room on the botto,. DeSantis led Howard down the back stretch and into the third corner. Howard leaped to the inside as the duo raced out of the race’s final turn.

The pair made slight contact as they battled past the start/finish line to complete the event. Howard just edged DeSantis by the slightest of margins to record the victory. It was Howard’s 51st career BDR victory. DeSantis settled for a season’s best finish of second. Ray Swinehart (started seventh) raced within the top five throughout most of the contest and finished third. Jeff Strunk (from 14th) and Ryan Watt (started 19th) completed the top five.

Heats for the 32 machines in attendance went to Craig Von Dohren, Doug Manmiller, and Doug Hendricks. Watt won the B-main.

Andy Miller jumped into the early race lead of the 20-lap Sportsman feature. Wagner, similar to Howard, began his victory quest from the fifteenth position. Wagner grabbed the runner-up spot on lap eight. One circuit later, Wagner blasted past Miller to seize command of the lead on a restart. Technically, the race for victory was over as Wagner ran a race of his own from the top spot.

Wagner captured his second win of the season and fifth career at the three-eighth’s mile clay oval. Tom Brennan, the defending track champion, started fourteenth and took second on lap eleven. Brennan remained there at the finish. A good battle took place for third which went right down to the finish. Mike Hughes held off Mike Mammana and the pair finished third and fourth respectively. Kevin Beach, the previous week’s winner, grabbed fifth on the final lap.

29 cars were present with heat wins going to Jordan Umbenhauer, Billy Moyer Jr., and Rob Gibson. Brad Force won the B-Main.

The Roadrunner feature began in rush hour traffic style as Tory Jenkins drove to the outside from his seventh starting spot. Jenkins led the opening two laps before Dan Strenkoski took command. On lap ten, Ryan Olenick drove to the inside of Strenkoski in turns three and four to become the new race leader.

Olenick, a second year racer, remained in front to record his first ever main event victory. Kevin Holland passed Strenkoski on lap twelve to seize the runner-up position. Jason Sherman then worked ahead of Strenkoski for third on the twelfth lap. Strenkoski finished fourth with Jeremy Becker rounding out the top five. 21 Roadrunners were on hand.

Ed Hollenbach worked past race leader Grant Adams to score the ninth lap of the Four Cylinder feature. Hollenbach never relinquished the lead. Hollenbach has now won Four Cylinder main events at three different speedways this season. It was his fourth overall triumph of the year.

Adams finished in the runner-up position after leading early. Veteran wheel twister Dale Kreiser finished third and he was followed by Ralph Morgan and Dustin Hollinger.

The evening of racing was sponsored by Alpha Mills and it was also Hamburg Area School Family and PTO Night. Two lucky youngsters were chosen to win rides in the Big Diamond Raceway Soap Box Derby car. The annual Soap Box Derby races will be held on Saturday June 3 in Pottsville PA. Kenny Eckert III, age 10, will represent BDR’s Stock Division, while Jerome Frederick, age 14, will take part in the Super Stock class.

This Friday May 26th will find a four division show including 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and 600 Modifieds. Gates open at 5PM with qualifying starting at 7:30PM.

5/19/2006 – Big Diamond Raceway Results…
358 Modifieds
FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Duane Howard, Oley, 2) Meme DeSantis, Temple, 3) Ray Swinehart, Bechtelsville, 4) Jeff Strunk, Bethel, 5) Ryan Watt, Boyertown, 6) Billy Pauch Jr., 7) Kevin Hartnett, 8) Jeff Sechrist, 9) John Willman, 10) Kevin Hirthler, 11) Doug Hendricks, 12) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 13) Greg Weiland, 14) Jimmy Reppert, 15) Ryan Beltz, 16) Dale Roth, 17) Danny Erb, 18) Colt Harris, 19) Craig Von Dohren 20) Rick Laubach, 21) Frank Cozze, 22) Doug Manmiller, 23) Justin Andrews, 24) Jason Hamilton,
Did Not Qualify: Steve Lozorak III, Bobby Gunther-Walsh, Amanda Spotts, Neil Huber, Andy Fayash Jr., Kenny Eckert Jr., Bernie Kelly, Kurt Spotts.

Sportsman
FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Gary Wagner Jr, Womelsdorf, 2) Tom Brennan, Pottsville, 3) Mike Hughes, Riegelsville, 4) Mike Mammana, Nazareth, 5) Kevin Beach, Llewellyn, 6) Andy Miller, 7) Fred Fisher, 8) Billy Moyer Jr., 9) Leroy Long, 10) Craig Whitmoyer, 11) Ray Woodall Jr., 12) Brad Force, 13) Craig Richards, 14) Josh Biever, 15) AJ DeSantis, 16) James Morris, 17) Shawn Heistand, 18) Kevin Nolf, 19) Rob Gibson, 20) Rich Stankiewicz, 21) Jordan Umbenhauer, 22) Archie Meyers III, 23) Louie Mitchalk, 24) Harry Landis.
Did Not Qualify: Jeff Sterner, Chris James Jr., Luke Wagner, Dave Lauver, Jarrad Miller,

Roadrunners
FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Ryan Olenick, Forestville, 2) Kevin Holland, Pine Grove, 3) Jason Sherman, Tower City, 4) Dan Strenkoski, Minersville, 5) Jeremy Becker, Pottsville, 6) Tory Jenkins, 7) Elvin Brennan III, 8) Joey Hendricks, 9) Eric Pinkerton, 10) Corey Sechrist, 11) Derek Bender, 12) Tom Hablett, 13) Kevin Olenick, 14) Gary Renninger, 15) Sterling Moyer, 16) Bud Vidal Jr., 17) Kyle Somers, 18) Ricky Bender, 19) Andrew Fayash III, 20) Kirby Schlappich, 21) Dave Miller

Four Cylinders
FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Ed Hollenbach, Fredericksburg, 2) Grant Adams, Jonestown, 3) Dale Kreiser, Lebanon, 4) Ralph Morgan, Shippensburg, 5) Dustin Hollinger, Jonestown, 6) Jerry Schott Jr., 7) Bryan Michael, 8) Frank Grubic, 9) Brian Wentzel, 10) Jason Walsh, 11) Charles Wengard, 12) Wayne Kocher, 13) Eric Hollenbach, 14) Leroy Long, 15) Dennis Christ Jr., 16) John Stoll Jr.

UNOFFICIAL BIG DIAMOND SPEEDWAY POINTS AS OF 5/20

UNOFFICIAL 358 MODIFIED TOP TEN POINTS: 1) Duane Howard-575, 2) Jeff Strunk-550, 3) Ryan Watt-510, 4) Craig Von Dohren-470, 5) Doug Manmiller-385, 6) Kevin Hartnett-380, 7) Ray Swinehart-360, 8) Rick Laubach-335, 9) John Willman-330, 10) Billy Pauch Jr.-300

UNOFFICIAL SPORTSMAN TOP TEN POINTS: 1) Gary Wagner Jr.-585, 2) Tom Brennan-510, 3) Craig Whitmoyer-465, 3) Kevin Beach-465, 5) Ray Woodall Jr.-460, 6) Josh Biever-455, 7) Mike Hughes-435, 8) Leroy Long-405, 9) Freddie Fisher-365, 10) Billy Moyer Jr.-350

UNOFFICIAL ROADRUNNER TOP TEN POINTS: 1) Jason Sherman-520, 2) Derek Bender-485, 3) Eric Pinkerton-485, 4) Tom Hablett-480, 5) Kevin Holland-475, 6) Ryan Olenick-470, 7) Corey Sechrist-455, 8) Jeremy Becker-430, 9) Elvin Brennan III-405, 10) Dan Strenkoski-400


COMING EVENTS:
Friday May 19, 7:30PM – MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, FOUR CYLINDERS
Friday May 26, 7:30PM -- MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS
Tuesday May 30, 7:00PM – OPEN PRACTICE
Friday June 2, 7:30PM – T102 PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT. ADULT GENERAL ADMISSION FOR THIS EVENT ONLY $6. 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, VINTAGE CARS.

BIG DIAMOND TO SELECT HIRED GUNS THIS FRIDAY EVENING FOR POTTSVILLE SOAP BOX DERBY, COUNTRY ARTIST PERFORMING LIVE

Minersville, Pa- This Friday evening May 19 at Big Diamond Raceway a unique opportunity will be presented to two lucky fans to be Big Diamond Raceway's hired guns in this years Pottsville, Pa soap box derby.

The derby is an annual event in Pottsville in which soap box competitors race down the highway hill on Laurel Street in Pottsville. Fans will have the chance Friday evening at the speedway to have their name selected to steer the Big Diamond Raceway sponsored cars in the event on Saturday June 3. One fan ages 8-12 years old and one fan age 13 and over will be selected.

Also, Friday evening at Big Diamond is the Hamburg Elementary PTO night in which students of the school are invited to attend a evening of racing at Big Diamond Raceway. Dodge City Cafe of Cressona, Pa will be presenting local Schuylkill county country artist Chris Bauer at 6pm performing live prior to the night's events.

Friday night's event is a four division card presented by Alpha Mills consisting of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and Four Cylinders. Gates open at 5pm, warm-ups at 7pm, and the first heat race starts at 7:30pm. Admission is $12 for Adults, $10 for Students (11-17 yrs) and Seniors (Over 60), Kids 10 & under are free. For all the latest information, results, and directions check out www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


COMPLETE BIG DIAMOND POINTS AS OF MAY 14, 2006

358 Modifieds Big Diamond Raceway
As of 5/14/2006 Year to Date Total Points
Total
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 4 Duane Howard 450
2. 88 Jeff Strunk 440
3. 1C Craig Von Dohren 435
4. 6 Ryan Watt 405
5. 00 Doug Manmiller 365
6. 14 Rick Laubach 305
7. 81 Kevin Hartnett 285
8. 16 Jason Hamilton 270
9. 33 Ray Swinehart 245
10. 64W John Willman 245
11. 11D Billy Pauch (Jr) 200
12. 77 Doug Hoffman 190
13. 44 Danny Erb 180
14. 117 Kevin Hirthler 180
15. T102 Shawn Fitzpatrick 170
16. 8 Doug Hendricks 160
17. 11 Meme Desantis 155
18. W9 Colt Harris 150
19. 118 Sean Merkel 145
20. 2 John Tschudy 135
21. 221 Ryan Beltz 135
22. 71S Sam Schaeffer 125
23. 42 Jeff Sechrist 120
24. 178 Neil Huber 115
25. 357 Billy Pauch 110
26. 24H Justin Andrews 105
27. 9R Brian Weaver 100
28. 9 Bruce Hirthler 100
29. 1450 Greg Weiland 85
30. 29 Kenny Brightbill 80
31. 102 Tim Fitzpatrick 75
32. 10 Rich Wisdo 55
33. 17 Ryan Grim 45
34. 37X Tommy Scheetz 45
35. 123 Roy Wiest 45
36. 114 Carroll Hine III 45
37. 25 Ray Deemer 40
38. 517 Steve Lozorak III 40
39. 79 Amanda Spotts 35
40. S1 Bobby Gunther-Walsh 35
41. 19B Brent Boyer 25
42. 27M Ken Eckert Jr. 20
43. 83K Bernie Kelly 15
44. 6R Dale Roth 15
45. 69 Andrew Fayash Jr. 10
46. 15 Dale Hartz 5
47. 70T Kurt Spotts 5

Road Runners Big Diamond Raceway
As of 5/14/2006
Year to Date Total Points Total
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 19W Derek Bender 410
2. 22 Tom Hablett 410
3. 721 Jason Sherman 405
4. 37P Eric Pinkerton 400
5. 20 Corey Sechrist 375
6. 66 Kevin Holland 355
7. 45 Ryan Olenick 345
8. Z-71 Andy Zvorsky 340
9. 712 Jeremy Becker 325
10. 555 Elvin Brennan III 310
11. 11X Joe Hendricks 305
12. 11 Dan Strenkoski 290
13. 101 Gary Renninger 285
14. 550 Kevin Olenick 265
15. 00 Tory Jenkins 225
16. 11K Kirby Schlappich 225
17. 77 Andrew Fayash III 190
18. 03 Sterling Moyer 135
19. 29B Ricky Bender 110
20. 17V Bud Vidal Jr. 110
21. 93 Robert Pyle III 40

Sportsmen Big Diamond Raceway
As of 5/14/2006 Year to Date Total Points
Total
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 47 Gary Wagner Jr. 460
2. 46 Josh Biever 395
3. 26 Tom Brennan 390
4. 99 Craig Whitmoyer 385
5. 72 Ray Woodall Jr. 385
6. 6 JR Kevin Beach Jr. 360
7. 4 Mike Hughes 320
8. 84 LeRoy Long 320
9. 14 Louie Mitchalk 310
10. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer 310
11. 3 Luke Wagner 300
12. 19 Brad Brightbill 270
13. 95 Freddie Fisher 270
14. 17 Billy Moyer Jr. 260
15. 917 Jarrad Miller 255
16. 71 Mike Mammana 225
17. 221 Rob Gibson 215
18. 17R Kevin Nolf 215
19. 2 Rich Stankiewitz 185
20. 7X Scott Singley 160
21. 64 Andy Miller 160
22. 88 Michael Bent 150
23. 15J John Pursell 110
24. 56 Shawn Hiestand 105
25. 94 Rick Beavers 100
26. 144 Donnie Miller 100
27. 11 AJ Desantis 95
28. 73 Darrel Herman 90
29. 77 Tom Miller 85
30. 39 Lowell Snyder 80
31. 67 Matt Krause 80
32. 74 Pete Marburger 75
33. 301 Jeff McCaughey 70
34. 21 Dave Lauver 70
35. 21K Kyle Weiss 65
36. 31 Harry Landis 65
37. 113 Jeff Sterner 65
38. 48 Jack Brink 55
39. 6C Craig Richards 55
40. 98 Tim Apgar 50
41. 00 Gary Butler 45
42. 13 James Morris 40
43. 28 Tom Solderich 40
44. 111 Archie Meyers III 20
45. 0 Kevin Brady 20
46. 5 Bashore Car 15
47. 5W Pat Wall 15
48. 71JR Chris James Jr. 10
49. 84Y Jamie Yankowski 5
50. 110 Bill Finneran III 5


COMING EVENTS:
Friday May 19, 7:30PM – MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, FOUR CYLINDERS
Friday May 26, 7:30PM -- MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS
Tuesday May 30, 7:00PM – OPEN PRACTICE
Friday June 2, 7:30PM – T102 PACK THE HOUSE NIGHT. ADULT GENERAL ADMISSION FOR THIS EVENT ONLY $6. 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, VINTAGE CARS.


HOWARD HITS THE HALF CENTURY MARK WITH SEASON’S FIRST BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY FEATURE WIN
BEACH NOTCHES CAREER FIRST IN SPORTSMAN; JENKINS IS VICTORIOUS IN ROADRUNNERS
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – May 12, 2006 – Duane Howard of Oley PA captured his fifth career 358 Modified feature victory in front of a good crowd this past Friday night at the Big Diamond Raceway. It was the five-time track champion’s first 25-lap main event win of the season.

Sportsman rookie competitor, Kevin Beach of Llewellyn PA, grabbed a first career feature win in their 20-lap feature contest. Tory Jenkins of Schuylkill Haven PA wired the Roadrunner feature to attain his initial 15-lap main event victory of the season.

Friday’s evening of racing was sponsored by Murphy Jewelers (locations in Pottsville and Hamburg). Gold dipped roses, courtesy of Murphy Jewelers, were given away to three selected moms in attendance for the celebration of Mother’s Day Weekend.

The 358 Modified main event began with a shaky start. Bobby Gunther-Walsh’s machine got out of shape in turns one and two. His machine then got loose in turn three and made contact with the wall. The impact rolled Walsh’s car over and it brought out the red flag. Walsh was okay, however, his car was doubled hooked from the scene.

Second generation talent, Justin Andrews, jumped into the early race lead. Meme DeSantis, who started ninth, made a two car sweep into the lead on a lap six restart. Kevin Hartnett worked into second behind the leader DeSantis on the eighth round. Howard had started the contest from sixteenth. On the tenth lap, Howard settled into the third position.

A lap twelve restart found DeSantis in command. Craig Von Dohren blasted from his fourth starting position to second ahead of Hartnett and Howard. On lap thirteen, Howard found power in his Main Racing Engines machine to grab third on the outside groove from Hartnett. Howard switched to the inside to pass Von Dohren for the runner-up position on the fourteenth circuit.

Howard looked to the inside of DeSantis and the duo raced side-by-side across the line to score the sixteenth lap. On the next lap, Howard led DeSantis by about a half-car length as the stormed down the backstretch. Howard secured the lead as they raced out of the fourth corner. Howard, driving Chad Sinon’s BPG Motorsports #4, raced on to captured his fourth overall victory of the season from three different speedways.

Von Dohren, the speedway’s all-time feature winner, hauled into second on lap twenty. Kevin Hartnett, sitting behind the wheel of Dennis Bailey’s #81, advanced into third on the twenty-third lap. Doug Manmiller, in his self owned #00, grabbed fourth on the twenty-fourth lap, Jeff Strunk, driving the Todd Marburger #18 Modified this week, leaped into fifth on the event’s final lap. DeSantis had been falling back as his machine struggled with a flat left front tire, and he ended up eighteenth.

Ryan Watt earned his fourth straight top ten in as many events with a sixth place finish. Rounding out the top ten were John Willman, Rick Laubach, Danny Erb, and Jason Hamilton.

37 cars were trackside with qualifying heat victories going to Howard, Von Dohren, DeSantis, and Laubach. Sean Merkel won the B-Main.

Former pavement racer, Jarrad Miller, led the opening stages of the Sportsman feature. Kevin Beach had started the event from the fifth position. Beach, the 2005 Roadrunner track champion, is taking on the new task of Sportsman competition this year. Beach advanced to second on the sixth lap. On the eighth lap, Beach passed Miller for the top spot.

Craig Whitmoyer, a 15-time career winner in the Sportsman class, had started from ninth. Whitmoyer survived a close call when he was involved in an earlier accident which occurred after the caution flag had been unfurled. Whitmoyer was able to hold his position and continue his journey through the field. On the twelfth lap, Whitmoyer grabbed second after a tremendous three-wide battle.

During the closing moments, Whitmoyer hunted down the leader Beach. The pair raced nose-to-tail as they entered turn three of the nineteenth lap. With the white flag waving, the rookie kept the veteran at bay. Beach placed about one car length between himself and Whitmoyer as the soared down the back stretch. Whitmoyer gained ground in the corners, however, Beach remained in front at the finish.

Beach, driving the Troyer-6JR, traveled to victory circle in the midst of a sea of supporters. Whitmoyer, a two-time track champion, settled for a close runner-up finish. Second generation racer, Brad Brightbill, ran within the top five through most of the event and ended up third. Tom Brennan moved through the field after pitting and returning with a flat tire early in the contest. Brennan finished fourth. Mike Hughes started eleventh and finished fifth.

Heats for the 29 cars present were won by Miller, Brennan, and Whitmoyer. Freddie Fisher won the B-Main.

Tory Jenkins struggled early in the 2006 season with his Roadrunner-00. After taking a week off, Jenkins returned for this event in a big way. Jenkins started outside pole and immediately grabbed the lead. He led all 15-laps of the Roadrunner feature and performed flawlessly throughout its entire distance.

Last season, as a rookie, Jenkins won an 8-lap BDR Roadrunner feature. Tory was also the winner of last season’s Enduro 100. His win in this main event was his first in a 15-lap feature. Eric Pinkerton’s Monte Carlo finished in second and he was followed by former winner Tom Hablett, sophomore racer Joey Hendricks, and third year driver Jason Sherman.

During the evening, drivers went through the stands and collected for the Relay For Life Walk which will be taking place next week at the Pottsville Area Football Stadium. Relay For Life is yearly event which benefits the Cancer Society. The drivers collected $541.07 and Big Diamond matched that amount to make a grand total of $1082.14.

This Friday May 19, Big Diamond Raceway will present a four-division show of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and Four Cylinders. It will be Hamburg (PA) Area School Family and PTO Night, as all Hamburg students attending with a parent will be admitted free. Gates open at 5PM with the first heat going green at 7:30PM.

5/12/2006 – Big Diamond Raceway Results…
358 Modifieds
FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Duane Howard, Oley, 2) Craig Von Dohren, Oley, 3) Kevin Hartnett, Perkasie, 4) Doug Manmiller, Wyomissing, 5) Jeff Strunk, Bethel, 6) Ryan Watt, Boyertown, 7) John Willman, Birdsboro, 8) Rick Laubach, Hellertown, 9) Danny Erb, Boyertown, 10) Jason Hamilton, Erwinna, 11) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 12) Justin Andrews, 13) Colt Harris, 14) Sean Merkel, 15) Doug Hendricks, 16) Neil Huber, 17) Ryan Beltz, 18) Meme DeSantis, 19) Greg Weiland, 20) Ray Deemer, 21) Steve Lozorak III, 22) Ray Swinehart, 23) Billy Pauch Jr., 24) Brent Boyer, 25) Amanda Spotts, 26) Jeff Sechrist, 27) Carroll Hine III, 28) Bobby Gunther-Walsh.
Did Not Qualify: Dale Roth, Roy Wiest, Bernie Kelly, Kurt Spotts, Kenny Eckert Jr., Kevin Hirthler, Tim Fitzpatrick, Bruce Hirthler, Andy Fayash Jr.

Sportsman
FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Kevin Beach, Llewellyn, 2) Craig Whitmoyer, Hamburg, 3) Brad Brightbill, Sinking Springs, 4) Tom Brennan, Pottsville, 5) Mike Hughes, Riegelsville, 6) Jarrad Miller, Barto, 7) Gary Wagner Jr., Womelsdorf, 8) Ray Woodall Jr., Pen Argyl, 9) Luke Wagner, Grantville, 10) Mike Mammana, Nazareth, 11) Josh Biever, 12) Jordan Umbenhauer, 13) Louie Mitchalk, 14) Billy Moyer Jr., 15) Freddie Fisher, 16) Leroy Lng, 17) Craig Richards, 18) Shawn Heistand, 19) Donnie Miller, 20) Kevin Nolf, 21) Rob Gibson, 22) Harry Landis, 23) AJ DeSantis (alt), 24) Michael Bent, DNS: Andy Miller.
Did Not Qualify: Bill Finneran III, Kevin Brady, Dave Lauver, Chris James Jr.

Roadrunners
FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Tory Jenkins, Schuylkill Haven, Eric Pinkerton, Tower City, 3) Tom Hablett, Schuylkill Haven, 4) Joey Hendricks, Auburn, 5) Jason Sherman, Tower City, 6) Elvin Brennan III, 7) Corey Sechrist, 8) Derek Bender, 9) Dan Strenkoski, 10) Kevin Olenick, 11) Andy Zvorsky, 12) Ryan Olenick, 13) Kirby Schlappich, 14) Ricky Bender, 15) Kevin Holland, 16) Gary Renninger, 17) Andrew Fayash III, 18) Jeremy Becker, 19) Bud Vidal Jr.

UNOFFICIAL 358 MODIFIED POINTS
1) 4-Duane Howard-450
2) R1/102/18-Jeff Strunk-440
3) 1c-Craig Von Dohren-435
4) 6-Ryan Watt-405
5) 00-Doug Manmiller-365
6) 14-Rick Laubach-395
7) 81-Kevin Hartnett-285
8) 15-Jason Hamilton-270
9) 64W-John Willman-245
10) 33-Ray Swinehart-245
11) 11D-Billy Pauch Jr.-200
12) 77-Doug Hoffman-190
13) 44-Danny Erb-180
14) 117-Kevin Hirthler-180
15) T102-Shawn Fitzpatrick-170
16) 8-Doug Hendricks-160
17) 11-Meme DeSantis-155
18) W9-Colt Harris-150
19) 118-Sean Merkel-145
20) 2-John Tschudy-135

UNOFFICIAL SPORTSMAN POINTS
1) 47-Gary Wagner Jr.-460
2) 46-Josh Biever-395
3) 26-Tom Brennan-390
4) 72-Ray Woodall Jr.-385
5) 99-Craig Whitmoyer-385
6) 6JR-Kevin Beach-360
7) 4-Mike Hughes-320
8) 84-Leory Long-320
9) 14-Louie Mitchalk-310
10) 19U-Jordan Umbenhauer-310
11) 3-Luke Wagner-300
12) 19-Brad Brightbill-270
13) 95-Fred Fisher-270
14) 17-Billy Moyer Jr.-260
15) 917-Jarrad Miller-255
16) 71-Mike Mammana-225
17) 17R-Kevin Nolf-215
18) 221-Rob Gibson-215
19) 2-Rich Stankiewicz-185
20) 7x-Scott Singley-160

UNOFFICIAL ROADRUNNER POINTS
1) 22-Tom Hablett-410
2) 19W-Derek Bender-410
3) 721-Jason Sherman-405
4) 37P-Eric Pinkerton-400
5) 20-Corey Sechrist-375
6) 66-Kevin Holland-355
7) 45-Ryan Olenick-345
8) Z71-Andy Zvorsky-345
9) 712-Jeremy Becker-325
10) 555-Elvin Brennan III-310
11) 11x-Joey Hendricks-305
12) 11-Dan Strenkoski-295
13) 101-Gary Renninger-290
14) 550-Kecin Olenick-265
15) 00-Tory Jenkins-230
16) 11K-Kirby Schlappich-230
17) 77-Andrew Fayash III-195
18) 17V-Bud Vidal Jr.-145
19) 03-Sterling Moyer-120
20) 29B-Ricky Bender-110


FULL BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY POINTS AFTER MAY 5

Big Diamond Raceway 358 Modified Unofficial Points after 5/5
1. 88 Jeff Strunk 335
2. 4 Duane Howard 325
3. 1c Craig Von Dohren 315
4. 6 Ryan Watt 305
5. 00 Doug Manmiller 255
6. 33 Ray Swinehart 225
7. 14 Rick Laubach 215
8. 77 Doug Hoffman 190
8. 16 Jason Hamilton 190
10. 11D Billy Pauch Jr. 185
11. 117 Kevin Hirthler 175
12. 81 Kevin Hartnett 170
13. 64W John Willman 150
14. 2 John Tschudy 135
15. 71s Sammy Schaeffer 125
16. 11 Meme DeSantis 115
16. 42 Jeff Sechrist 115
18. 357 Billy Pauch 110
19. 8 Doug Hendricks 105
20. 9R Brian Weaver 100
21. 44 Danny Erb 95
21. T102 Shawn Fitzpatrick 95
21. 9 Bruce Hirthler 95
24. 221 Ryan Beltz 90
25. 118 Sean Merkel 85
25. W9 Colt Harris 85
27. 29 Kenny Brightbill 80
28. 102 Tim Fitzpatrick 70
29. 178 Neil Huber 65
30. 10 Rich Wisdow 55

Big Diamond Raceway Sportsman Unofficial Points after 5/5
1. 47 Gary Wagner 365
2. 46 Josh Biever 320
3. 72 Ray Woodall Jr. 295
4. 26 Tom Brennan 280
5. 84 Leroy Long 270
6. 99 Craig Whitmoyer 265
7. 14 Louie Mitchalk 245
8. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer 240
9. 6JR Kevin Beach 235
10. 3 Luke Wagner 215
10. 4 Mike Hughes 215
10. 95 Fred Fisher 215
13. 17 Billy Moyer Jr. 200
14. 221 Rob Gibson 190
15. 2 Rich Stankiewicz 185
15. 17R Kevin Nolf 185
17. 7x/2 Scott Singley 160
18. 19 Brad Brightbill 155
18. 64 Andy Miller 155
18. 917 Jarrad Miller 155
21. 71 Mike Mammana 145
22. 88 Michael Bent 140
23. 15J John Pursell 110
24. 94 Ricky Beavers 100
25. 73 Darrel Herman 90
26. 77 Tom Miller 85
27. 39B Lowell Snyder 80
27. 67 Matt Krause 80
27. 11 AJ DeSantis 80
30. 74 Pete Marburger 75

Big Diamond Raceway Roadrunner Unofficial Points after 5/5
1. 19W Derek Bender 320
2. 66 Kevin Holland 300
2. 721 Jason Sherman 300
4. 22 Tom Hablett 295
5. 712 Jeremy Becker 285
6. 37 Eric R. Pinkerton Jr. 280
6. 20 Corey Sechrist 280
8. 45 Ryan Olenick 275
9. z71 Andy Zvorsky 270
10. 101 Gary Renninger 240
11. 555 Elvin Brennan III 210
11. 11 Dan Strenkoski 210
13. 11x Joey Hendricks 195
14. 550 Kevin Olenick 185
15. 11K Kirby Schlappich 165
16. 77 Andrew Fayash III 150
17. 03 Sterling Moyer 115
18. 17V Bud Vidal Jr. 110
19. 00 Tory Jenkins 105
20. 29B Ricky Bender 50
21. 93 Rob Pyle 40


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY NEWS

Big Diamond Raceway action returns this Friday Night May 12th with a three-division card of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners. Gates open at 5PM with warm-ups beginning at 7:00PM. The first qualifying heat goes green at 7:30PM. The night of racing action will be sponsored by Murphy Jewelers of Pottsville and Hamburg. Murphy Jewelers will be giving away gold dipped roses to three selected mom's in attendance in celebration of Mother's Day. In other track news Buddy Biever has announced that the track will run the 358 modified feature first this week in a attempt to change things up for the fans. Also, the scheduled practice day originally slated for May 28 will be moved to Tuesday night May 30 due to the numerous activities of the Memorial Day weekend.


COMING EVENTS:
Friday May 12, 7:30PM – MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS
Friday May 19, 7:30PM -- MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, FOUR CYLINDERS
Friday May 26, 7:30PM – MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS


BILLY PAUCH JR. WINS FIRST CAREER BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY FEATURE IN CONVINCING STYLE
BRENNAN GRABS SECOND SPORTSMAN FEATURE WIN OF THE SEASON WHILE HOLLAND REPEATS IN ROADRUNNERS
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – May 5, 2006 – Second-generation racing talent, Billy Pauch Jr. of Frenchtown NJ, grabbed his first career Big Diamond Raceway feature victory this past Friday night. Pauch convincingly led the 25-lap feature contest from start to finish. Tom Brennan of Pottsville PA won the 20-lap Sportsman main event, while Kevin Holland of Pine Grove PA was awarded the 15-lap Roadrunner feature victory after the apparent winner failed post race inspection.

Weekly Friday night racing will continue this Friday May 12th with a three-division card of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners. Gates open at 5PM with warm-ups beginning at 7:00PM. The first qualifying heat goes green at 7:30PM. May 19th will find the Four Cylinders added to the card and May 26th has the 600 Modifieds as an added attraction. Interest has been running high at the new and improved BDR this season. If you haven’t had the opportunity to view the facility’s improvements, then the Month of May is a great time to take advantage of that opportunity.

Billy Pauch Jr. struggled during the first few events this season and was ready to rebound. Pauch started from the third position as points handicapping began for this event. Pauch quickly worked to the front on the contest’s opening circuit. Jeff Sechrist followed suit behind the leader in the early going. Sportsman graduate, Jason Hamilton, grabbed third on the fourth lap.

Pauch found patience as necessary task as he withstood several caution restarts in the early going. On a lap ten retry, Hamilton and thirteenth place starter Ryan Watt each hauled past Sechrist. With the green waving on lap 12, Pauch continued to set the pace over Hamilton and Watt. Duane Howard (from fifteenth) and Doug Manmiller (started sixteenth) filled out the front five at this juncture.

Howard advanced past Watt on lap 15 for the third position. Manmiller brought out the caution with 18 laps complete. Pauch remained in control under the green and quickly began to set some space between himself and the field. Hamilton, Howard, Watt, and Kevin Hirthler ran in tight formation. The event’s final caution unfurled with just three circuits remaining.

Pauch Jr., behind the wheel of Mike Dinatale’s #11D Bicknell, completed a flawless performance as he led the closing moments unchallenged. Pauch Jr. now joins his father on the all-time winner’s list at BDR. Incidentally, the Pauch father/son combo is only the second on Diamond’s all-time list joining Randy and Mike Bailey.

Five-time track champion Howard of Oley PA finished second ahead of Hamilton of Erwinna PA for his best career Diamond 358 Mod finish of third. Watt and Hirthler, each from Boyertown PA, finished fourth and fifth respectively.

37 drivers signed in for competition with qualifying heat victories going to: Duane Howard, Doug Manmiller, Billy Pauch Jr., and Craig Von Dohren. Jeff Strunk, driving the Tim Fitzpatrick #102 for this event, won the consolation. Duane Howard won the Shiley Fabrication Fast Time award.

Teenaged racer, Shawn Heistand, led the opening five laps of the Sportsman feature. Yellow flag fever would then take place during the event’s early moments. Brennan, who started eighth, became the new race leader on a lap six restart. Gary Wagner worked into the runner-up spot on lap nine, while Brennan continued to pace the pack.

Brennan, the two-time defending track champion, held Wagner at bay during the event’s second half. Brennan extended his advantage over Wagner as the race drew to a close. Brennan, driving his self-owned #26 Dirt Wheels Chassis, checked into victory circle for his second win of 2006 and tenth career in Sportsman.

Wagner, of Womelsdorf PA, followed up his victory the previous Friday with a runner-up effort. Second generation racer, Jordan Umbenhauer, of Richland PA, grabbed third on lap twelve and remained in the position. Mike Hughes of Riegelsville PA is returning to weekly BDR activity this season after a few years away and he finished fourth. Former feature winner, Josh Biever of Orwigsburg PA rounded out the top five.

Qualifying heat winners for the 31 car field were Mike Hughes, Andrew Miller, and Tom Brennan. James Morris won the B-Main. Brennan won the Shiley Fabrication fast time bonus.

For the second time this season, the Roadrunner division completed their 15-lap feature in impressive non-stop style. No yellow flags were thrown during the context of the event, and once again Big D. promoters offered an addition $10 to each participant in the Roadrunner feature for their fine efforts.

Enduro veteran, Gary Renninger, led the opening moments of the Roadrunner main event. On lap six, Derek Bender powered to the inside of Renninger to become the new race leader. Joey Hendricks immediately followed Bender into the runner-up position. Racing out of the fourth corner, Hendricks passed Bender on lap 10.

Hendricks led the final five circuits and held on for the apparent victory. In post race inspection, however, the Hendricks-11x was found to have an illegal exhaust and he was disqualified. Kevin Holland had started sixth. He passed Bender on the race’s final circuit for what turned out to be the victory. It was Holland’s second win of the season and twelfth career.

Bender of Tremont PA nailed down a second place finish after the Hendricks DQ. Rookie Renninger of Pottsville finished third ahead of Elvin Brennan III of Pottsville and Andy Zvorsky of Orwigsburg.

5/5/2006 – Big Diamond Raceway Results…
358 Modifieds
FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Billy Pauch Jr, Frenchtown NJ, 2) Duane Howard, Oley, 3) Jason Hamilton, Erwinna, 4) Ryan Watt, Boyertown, 5) Kevin Hirthler, Boyertown, 6) Craig Von Dohren, Oley, 7) Danny Erb, Boyertown, 8) Ray Swinehart, Bechtelsville, 9) Jeff Strunk, Bethel, 10) Jeff Sechrist, Wernersville, 11) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 12) Doug Hendricks, 13) Kevin Hartnett, 14) John Tschudy, 15) John Willman, 16) Ryan Beltz, 17) Rick Laubach, 18) Greg Weiland, 19) Roy Wiest, 20) Amanda Spotts, 21) Justin Andrews, 22) Doug Manmiller, 23) Sammy Schaeffer, 24) Brent Boyer, 25) Doug Hoffman, 26) Steve Lozorak, 27) Colt Harris, 28) Kenny Eckert Jr.
Did Not Qualify: Bernie Kelly, Bobby Gunther-Walsh, Ray Deemer, Kenny Brightbill, Neil Huber, Bruce Hirthler, Meme DeSantis, Carroll Hine III, Tim Fitzpatrick.

Sportsman
FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Tom Brennan, Pottsville, 2) Gary Wagner, Womelsdorf, 3) Jordan Umbenhauer, Richland, 4) Mike Hughes, Riegelsville, 5) Josh Biever, Orwigsburg, 6) Craig Whitmoyer, Hamburg, 7) Luke Wagner, Grantville, 8) Ray Woodall Jr., Pen Argyl, 9) Leroy Long, Womelsdorf, 10) Michael Bent, Alpha NJ, 11) Louie Mitchalk, 12) Andrew Miller, 13) Kevin Beach, 14) Rich Stankiewicz, 15) Kevin Nolf, 16) Jarrad Miller, 17) Harry Landis, 18) James Morris, 19) Rob Gibson, 20) Freddie Fisher, 21) Shawn Heistand, 22) Archie Meyers III, 23) Mike Bashore . DNS: Kevin Brady.
Did Not Qualify: Craig Richards, Jeff Sterner, AJ DeSantis, Jack Brink, Billy Moyer Jr., Tom Miller, Chris James Jr.

Roadrunners
FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Kevin Holland, Pine Grove, 2) Derek Bender, Tremont, 3) Gary Renninger, Pottsville, 4) Elvin Brennan III, Pottsville, 5) Andy Zvorsky, Orwigsburg, 6) Jeremy Becker, Pottsville, 7) Ryan Olenick, Pottsville, 8) Kirby Schlappich, Temple, 9) Tom Hablett, Schuylkill Haven, 10) Corey Sechrist, Womelsdorf, 11) Jason Sherman, 12) Kevin Olenick, 13) Dan Strenkoski, 14) Eric Pinkerton Jr., 15) Sterling Moyer, 16) Ricky Bender, 17) Andrew Fayash III, 18) Joey Hendricks.

BIG DIAMOND POINTS AS OF 5-5-06
358 MODIFIED POINTS THRU 5-5-06
1) 88/R1/102-Jeff Strunk-335 (2)
2) 4-Duane Howard-325
3) 1c-Craig Von Dohren-315
4) 6-Ryan Watt-305
5) 00-Doug Manmiller-255
6) 33-Ray Swinehart-225
7) 14-Rick Laubach-215
8) 77-Doug Hoffman-190
9) 16-Jason Hamilton-190
10) 11D-Billy Pauch Jr.-185 (1)
11) 117-Kevin Hirthler-175
12) 81-Kevin Hartnett-170
13) 64W-John Willman-150
14) 2-John Tschudy-135
15) 71s-Sammy Schaeffer-125

SPORTSMAN POINTS
1) 47-Gary Wagner-365 (1)
2) 46-Josh Biever-320 (1)
3) 72-Ray Woodall Jr.-295
4) 26-Tom Brennan-280 (2)
5) 84-Leory Long-270
6) 99-Craig Whitmoyer-265
7) 14-Louie Mitchalk-245 (1)
8) 19U-Jordan Umbenhauer-240
9) 6JR-Kevin Beach-235
10) 3-Luke Wagner-215
11) 4-Mike Hughes-215
12) 95-Freddie Fisher-215
13) 17-Billy Moyer Jr.-200
14) 221-Rob Gibson-190
15) 2-Rich Stankiewicz-185
16) 17R-Kevin Nolf-185

ROADRUNNER POINTS
1) 19W-Derek Bender-320
2) 66-Kevin Holland-300 (2)
3) 721-Jason Sherman-300 (1)
4) 22-Tom Hablett-295 (1)
5) 712-Jeremy Becker-285
6) 37-Eric Pinkerton Jr.-280
7) 20-Corey Sechrist-280
8) 45-Ryan Olencik-275
9) Z71-Andy Zvorsky-270
10) 101-Gary Renninger-240
11) 555-Elvin Brennan III-210
12) 11-Dan Strenkoski-210
13) 11x-Joey Hendricks-195
14) 550-Kevin Olenick-185
15) 77-Andrew Fayash III-150


COMING EVENTS:
Friday May 5, 7:30PM -- MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS
Friday May 12, 7:30PM -- MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS
Friday May 19, 7:30PM – MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, FOUR CYLINDERS


DRIVERS TEST AND TUNE IN PREPARATION FOR RACING THIS FRIDAY NIGHT
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – May 2, 2006 – Over thirty racing machines ventured to the Big Diamond Raceway on Tuesday evening as the first test and tune session of the season was held. Many of Diamond’s weekly three divisions were present along with a handful of visiting classes.

Drivers were busy preparing for action this Friday night May 5. The season’s second Friday night show of the season is scheduled with a three-division card of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners on the card. Warm-ups begin at 7:00PM with racing taking the green at 7:30PM.

Friday May 12 will likewise find a regular three-division show with racing beginning at 7:30PM. On Friday May 19th, the 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners will be joined by the Four Cylinder Stock Cars. Several four cylinder drivers have expressed interest in competing at Big Diamond over the last few years, and this will be their first ever competition event at BDR. On May 26th, the 600 Modifieds return for their second Diamond event of the season.

T-102 Pack the House Night is slated for June 2nd. The 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Roadrunners, and Vintage Race Cars are scheduled to be on hand and Adult General Admission for this particular event is only $6.

Weekly Friday night racing will continue throughout the summer months at BDR. Many improvements and changes have been made at the popular Coal Region facility. For more details on Big Diamond Raceway feel free to visit the track’s official website, www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

CARS ON HAND FOR OPEN PRACTICE SESSION (TUESDAY MAY 2, 2006)
358 MODIFIEDS: #00-Doug Manmiller, #5-Todd Bashore (#5 car will be a car available for rent in the coming weeks), #8-Doug Hendricks, #19-Tom Umbenhauer, #19B-Brent Boyer, #29-Kenny Brightbill, #42-Jeff Sechrist, #69-Andy Fayash Jr./Dave Dissinger
SPORTSMAN: #4-Mike Hughes, #6-Craig Richards, #6JR-Kevin Beach, #11-AJ DeSantis, #13-James Morris, #19-Brad Brightbill, #64-Andy Miller, #71JR-Chris James Jr., #84-Leroy Long, #110-Bill Finneran
ROADRUNNERS: #11-Dan Strenkoski, #22-Tom Hablett, #45-Ryan Olenick, #77-Andy Fayash III, #550-Kevin Olenick, #555-Elvin Brennan, #712-Jeremy Becker
FOUR CYLINDERS: #15W-Jesse Wagner, #29-Gary Schoch, #32-Dennis Christ Jr., #64-Grant Adams.
LATE MODELS: #69s-Doug Snyder, #93-Rick Todorow
STREET STOCK: #29J-Jeff Haag
MIDGET: #17-Doug Rose
600 MODIFIED: #118-Travis Halabura


BIG DIAMOND PRACTICE NIGHT MAY 2 REMINDER

Minersville, PA -Just a reminder that the first Big Diamond Raceway open practice night is scheduled for tomorrow evening Tuesday, May 2, at 7:00. No pit license is required and any and all divisions of racing cars will be permitted to participate in this open practice with pit admission set at $20.00 to cover insurance.

In addition to the weekly Modified, Sportsman and Roadrunner cars it is possible that some competitors of touring divisions from the area will be on hand to test the new Big Diamond Raceway surface and work out any early season mechanical bugs.

Fans are invited to observe the Tuesday practice night without charge.


BIG DIAMOND SPEEDWAY POINTS AS OF APRIL 30, 2006

358 Modifieds Big Diamond Raceway As of 4/30/2006 Year to Date
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. R1 Jeff Strunk 250
2. 00 Doug Manmiller 235
3. 1C Craig Von Dohren 215
4. 4 Duane Howard 205
5. 6 Ryan Watt 195
6. 77 Doug Hoffman 185
7. 14 Rick Laubach 170
8. 33 Ray Swinehart 135
9. 11 Meme Desantis 110
10. 357 Billy Pauch 110
11. 71S Sam Schaeffer 110
12. 81 Kevin Hartnett 105
13. 9R Brian Weaver 100
14. 64W John Willman 95
15. 9 Bruce Hirthler 90
16. 118 Sean Merkel 85
17. W9 Colt Harris 80
18. 2 John Tschudy 75
19. 29 Kenny Brightbill 75
20. 16 Jason Hamilton 75
21. 102 Tim Fitzpatrick 70
22. 117 Kevin Hirthler 70
23. 178 Neil Huber 60
24. 11D Billy Pauch (Jr) 60
25. 10 Rich Wisdo 55
26. 17 Ryan Grim 45
27. 37X Tommy Scheetz 45
28. 221 Ryan Beltz 40
29. 8 Doug Hendricks 35
30. 114 Carroll Hine III 35
31. 42 Jeff Sechrist 35
32. S1 Bobby Gunther-Walsh 25
33. T102 Shawn Fitzpatrick 20
34. 24H Justin Andrews 10
35. 27M Ken Eckert Jr. 10
36. 517 Steve Lozorak III 10
37. 6R Dale Roth 10
38. 1450 Greg Weiland 10
39. 19B Brent Boyer 5
40. 25 Ray Deemer 5
41. 69 Andrew Fayash Jr. 5
42. 15 Dale Hartz 5
43. 83K Bernie Kelly 5
44. 123 Roy Wiest 5

Road Runners Big Diamond Raceway As of 4/30/2006
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 721 Jason Sherman 225
2. 37 Eric Pinkerton (Jr) 220
3. 22 Thomas "Tom" Hablett 210
4. 19W Derek Bender 200
5. 20 Corey Sechrist 200
6. 11X Joe Hendricks 195
7. 712 Jeremy Becker 185
8. 45 Ryan Olenick 180
9. 66 Kevin Holland 175
10. Z-71 Andrew "Andy" Zvorsky 165
11. 11 Dan Strenkoski 145
12. 101 Gary Renninger 125
13. 550 Kevin Olenick 115
14. 17V Clarence "Bud" Vidal Jr. 110
15. 77 Andrew Fayash III 105
16. 00 Tory Jenkins 105
17. 555 Elvin Brennan III 100
18. 03 Sterling Moyer 55
19. 93 Robert Pyle 40

Sportsmen Big Diamond Raceway As of 4/30/2006
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 47 Gary Wagner Jr. 245
2. 46 Josh Biever 215
3. 72 Raymond Woodall Jr. 205
4. 17 Billy Moyer Jr. 195
5. 95 Freddie Fisher 185
6. 84 LeRoy Long 185
7. 6 JR Kevin Beach Jr. 170
8. 14 Louie Mitchalk 170
9. 99 Craig Whitmoyer 165
10. 7X Scott Singley 160
11. 26 Thomas "Tom" Brennan 155
12. 19 Brad Brightbill 155
13. 221 Rob Gibson 155
14. 71 Mike Mammana 145
15. 17R Kevin Nolf 130
16. 2 Rich Stankiewitz 125
17. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer 125
18. 3 Luke Wagner 120
19. 15J John Pursell 110
20. 4 Mike Hughes 105
21. 917 Jarrad Miller 105
22. 94 Rick Beavers 100
23. 73 Darrel Herman 90
24. 64 Andy Miller 85
25. 77 Tom Miller 80
26. 39 Lowell Snyder 80
27. 67 Matt Krause 80
28. 74 Pete Marburger 75
29. 11 AJ Desantis 75
30. 301 Jeff McCaughey 70
31. 144 Donnie Miller 65
32. 21K Kyle Weiss 65
33. 21 Dave Lauver 65
34. 88 Michael Bent 60
35. 113 Jeff Sterner 55
36. 98 Tim Apgar 50
37. 48 Jack Brink 50
38. 00 Gary Butler 45
39. 28 Tom Solderich 40
40. 56 Shawn Heistand 35
41. 5W Pat Wall 15
42. 110 Bill Finneran III 5
43. 6C Craig Richards 5
44. 84Y Jamie Yankowski 5
45. 0 Kevin Brady 5


COMING EVENTS:
Tuesday May 2, 7:00PM -- TEST AND TUNE
Friday May 5, 7:30PM -- MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS
Friday May 12, 7:30PM – MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS

JEFF STRUNK CAPTURES SECOND STRAIGHT 358 MODIFIED WIN ON BUSY BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY NIGHT; MITCHALK, WAGNER, HABLETT, AND MARTOCCI ALSO VICTORIOUS…By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – April 28, 2006 – Jeff Strunk of Bethel PA advanced his 2006 record to 2-0 this past Friday evening at the Big Diamond Raceway. Strunk, a former four time track champion, steered Johnny Rea’s #1 to his second straight 358 Modified main event score of the season. It was Strunk’s 27th career BDR feature victory.

Other victorious drivers on a very busy evening were: Louie Mitchalk of Summit Hill PA (First Sportsman feature), Gary Wagner of Womelsdorf PA (Second Sportsman Feature), Tom Hablett of Schuylkill Haven PA (Roadrunners), and Tom Martocci of Kunkletown PA (600 Modifieds).

The 358 Modified feature found Ryan Watt grabbing the early race lead from his inside front row starting position. Watt, who is driving for Fran Purcell Motorsports this season, kept Doug Manmiller in his rear tire tracks during the contest’s early stages. Strunk started seventh and quickly drove into the third position by the completion of lap two. Jason Hamilton’s car developed flames, which brought out the red flag. No injuries, however, Hamilton was through for the night.

On the restart, Strunk fought with Manmiller and passed him for the runner-up spot in turn two. Watt remained in front until a lap seven caution took place for Billy Pauch Jr., who was racing in fourth. The ensuing restart marked an intense battle for the lead between Watt and Strunk. They drew even in turn two, with Strunk on the high side. The duo sprinted side-by-side down the backstretch and into the corners. Strunk found muscle in his Gechter Racing Engines powered machine as they raced out of turn four, and Strunk became the new race leader.

Racing remained clean and green until lap 15, when Ray Deemer’s machine slowed in the fourth corner and the caution lights flashed. Strunk remained in front on the green with Watt and Manmiller in pursuit. Strunk had built a half straight advantage as the field received the five-lap sign. Manmiller edged past Watt on lap 21, and Strunk began to race through lapped traffic. Manmiller closed the gap slightly as Strunk contended with traffic. The third and final caution flag waved on the 24th circuit, which set up a one lap dash to the finish.

Strunk performed flawlessly on the last lap and powered safely to the winner’s circle. Manmiller, behind the wheel of his self-owned #00, and Watt followed Strunk across the line for second and third respectively. Thirteenth place starter, Craig Von Dohren, grabbed fourth on lap eight and finished in the position. Meme DeSantis, driving the Nowotarski/Hiester #11, started and finished in the fifth position. Ray Swinehart ended up sixth and he was followed by Billy Pauch, Doug Hoffman, Duane Howard, and Kevin Hartnett.

Qualifying heat races for the 36 Modifieds in attendance were won by Howard, Von Dohren, Swinehart, and DeSantis. Consi winners were Doug Hendricks and Kevin Hirthler. Strunk also picked up the $50 bonus from Shiley Fabrications for setting quick time in the feature of 17.850.

When the Sportsman division draws 40+ cars this season, they will be competing in a pair of 20-lap events. This was indeed the case on Friday evening as 40 Sportsman were in the pit area. Two features were presented with 20 starters in each event.

Mitchalk started from inside pole in the opening 20-lap showdown. Mitchalk, a former asphalt racer who switched to the Diamond clay a few years ago, would lead this event from flag to flag. At the end of last season, Mitchalk’s machine was destroyed in a nasty backstretch flip. He returns this year behind the wheel of the ex Andy Fayash Troyer machine, renumbered –14.

Mitchalk withstood a number of restarts along the way and never relinquished the lead. It was Mitchalk’s first career Sportsman victory. Billy Moyer Jr. moved into second during the closing stages and remained there at the finish. Fred Fisher crossed the line in third and he was followed by Ray Woodall Jr. and Andy Miller. Attrition was plentiful in this race as only eight of the twenty starters were active at the finish.

Veteran racer, Luke Wagner, led the 20-car field to a green in feature number two. L. Wagner paced the pack while Gary Wagner was working through the field from his ninth starting position. G. Wagner immediately worked into second by the contest’s third lap. L. Wagner held a comfortable advantage at the half-way signal, however, G. Wagner was not about to give up.

On the final lap, Gary pulled alongside of Luke in turns one and two. After drag racing side-by-side down the backstretch, Gary Wagner throttled into the top position through the third corner. G. Wagner drove to his fourth career victory after a dramatic last lap pass, while L. Wagner settled for second. Brad Brightbill ended up third ahead of first ’06 starter John Pursell, and second generation talent, Jordan Umbenhauer.

Yellow flag fever actually took place in the Roadrunner feature. The event was shortened from 15 to 10-laps due to the time limit. Hablett started from outside pole and placed his Nova-22 in front early. Hablett led the entire distance, however, Elvin Brennan remained within striking distance during the closing moments. Hablett was able to keep Brennan in tow and the third year racer cashed in for his first win of the season and sixth career.

Brennan held onto second and twelfth place starter Kirby Schlappich followed in the third spot. Derek Bender, returning to BDR after a one year hiatus, drove to a fourth place result, while rookie Kevin Olenick powered to a fifth place finish in his very first race. 20 Roadrunners were on hand for their third program of the season.

Martocci grabbed the lead on lap three of the 15-lap 600 Modified feature. The former Micro Sprint and Midget racer always competes positively at BDR and this race was no exception. Once Martocci attained the lead, he never looked back. Last season Martocci won two of the three 600 Modified events at BDR. This year, the defending tour champion began ’06 on the correct foot with another main event victory.

A BDR record 600 Modified field of 22 cars were present with the final top five reading Martocci over former Micro Sprint racer Chad Behler, Kevin Gruber, ’05 rookie sensation Paul Tuthill, and Brian Mady.

Test and tune sessions will be held this coming Tuesday evening May 2 at 7:00PM. On Friday May 5, the triple header card of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners will take center stage. Warm-ups begin at 7:00PM with the first heat going green at 7:30PM.

FINISH SUMMARY – BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY – APRIL 28, 2006
358 MODIFIED FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Jeff Strunk, 2) Doug Manmiller, 3) Ryan Watt, 4) Craig Von Dohren, 5) Meme DeSantis, 6) Ray Swinehart, 7) Billy Pauch, 8) Doug Hoffman, 9) Duane Howard, 10) Kevin Hartnett, 11) Colt Harris, 12) Kenny Brightbill, 13) Kevin Hirthler, 14) Rick Laubach, 15) Billy Pauch Jr., 16) Sammy Schaeffer, 17) Ryan Grim, 18) Bruce Hirthler, 19) Ryan Beltz, 20) Caroll Hines III, 21) Bobby Gunther-Walsh, 22) Neil Huber. DNF: Shawn Fitzpatrick, Doug Hendricks, Ray Deemer, Dale Roth, Jason Hamilton, John Willman. DNQ: Brent Boyer, Justin Andrews, Kenny Eckert, Jeff Sechrist, Steve Lozorak, Tim Fitzpatrick, Bernie Kelly, Greg Weiland.
HEAT RACE WINNERS: Duane Howard, Craig Von Dohren, Ray Swinehart, Meme DeSantis.
CONSOLATION WINNERS: Doug Hendricks, Kevin Hirthler
FEATURE LAP LEADERS: R. Watt (1-7), J. Strunk (8-25)

FIRST SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Louie Mitchalk, 2) Billy Moyer Jr., 3) Fred Fisher, 4) Ray Woodall Jr., 5) Andy Miller, 6) Mike Hughes, 7) Kevin Nolf, 8) Rob Gibson. DNF: Josh Biever, Darrel Herman, Lowell Snyder, Pete Marburger, Donnie Miller, Jeff McCaughey, Michael Bent, Scott Singley, Jack Brink, Tom Brennan, Tom Solderich, Kevin Brady.

SECOND SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Gary Wagner, 2) Luke Wagner, 3) Brad Brightbill, 4) John Pursell, 5) Jordan Umbenhauer, 6) Rick Beavers, 7) Archie Myers III, 8) Jarrad Miller, 9) Mike Mammana, 10) Leroy Long, 11) Kevin Beach. DNF: Matt Krause, AJ DeSantis, Kyle Weiss, Rich Stankiewicz, Jeff Sterner, Craig Whitmoyer, Gary Butler, Dave Lauver, Shawn Heistand.
FEATURE LAP LEADERS: L. Mitchalk (1-20), L. Wagner (1-19), G. Wagner (20)

ROADRUNNER FEATURE (10-LAPS): 1) Tom Hablett, 2) Elvin Brennan, 3) Kirby Schlappich, 4) Derek Bender, 5) Kevin Olenick, 6) Corey Sechrist, 7) Eric Pinkerton Jr., 8) Jason Sherman, 9) Andy Zvorsky, 10) Jeremy Becker. DNF: Joey Hendricks, Dan Strenkoski, Gary Renninger, Kevin Holland, Bud Vidal Jr., Ryan Olenick, Tory Jenkins, Sterling Moyer, Andrew Fayash III, Rob Pyle.
FEATURE LAP LEADERS: T. Hablett (10)


BIG DIAMOND POINTS AS OF 4-22-06

358 Modifieds Big Diamond Raceway
As of 4/22/2006 Year to Date Total Points
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. R1 Jeff Strunk 125
2. 4 Duane Howard 120
3. 00 Doug Manmiller 115
4. 14 Rick Laubach 110
5. 1C Craig Von Dohren 105
6. 9R Brian Weaver 100
7. 77 Doug Hoffman 95
8. 64W John Willman 90
9. 118 Sean Merkel 85
10. 6 Ryan Watt 80
11. 2 John Tschudy 75
12. 16 Jason Hamilton 70
13. 102 Tim Fitzpatrick 65
14. 71S Sam Schaeffer 60
15. 10 Rich Wisdo 55
16. 9 Bruce Hirthler 50
17. 37X Tommy Scheetz 45
18. 178 Neil Huber 40
19. 33 Ray Swinehart 35
20. 42 Jeff Sechrist 30
21. 81 Kevin Hartnett 25
22. 8 Doug Hendricks 20
23. 357 Billy Pauch 15
24. T102 Shawn Fitzpatrick 10
25. 24H Justin Andrews 5
26. 221 Ryan Beltz 5
27. 29 Kenny Brightbill 5
28. 11 Meme Desantis 5
29. 27M Ken Eckert Jr. 5
30. 69 Andrew Fayash Jr. 5
31. W9 Colt Harris 5
32. 15 Dale Hartz 5
33. 114 Carroll Hine III 5
34. 117 Kevin Hirthler 5
35. 517 Steve Lozorak III 5
36. 11D Billy Pauch (Jr) 5
37. 6R Dale Roth 5
38. 1450 Greg Weiland 5
39. 123 Roy Wiest 5

Road Runners Big Diamond Raceway
As of 4/22/2006 Year to Date Total Points
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 721 Jason Sherman 125
2. 45 Ryan Olenick 120
3. 37 Eric Pinkerton (Jr) 115
4. 11X Joe Hendricks 110
5. 66 Kevin Holland 105
6. 555 Elvin Brennan III 100
7. 712 Jeremy Becker 95
8. 20 Corey Sechrist 90
9. 22 Thomas "Tom" Hablett 85
10. 19W Derek Bender 80
11. Z-71 Andrew "Andy" Zvorsky 70
12. 11 Dan Strenkoski 65
13. 77 Andrew Fayash III 60
14. 00 Tory Jenkins 55
15. 101 Gary Renninger 50
16. 17V Clarence "Bud" Vidal Jr. 45
17. 03 Sterling Moyer 5

Sportsmen Big Diamond Raceway
As of 4/22/2006 Year to Date Total Points
Rank Car # Driver Name Points
1. 46 Josh Biever 125
2. 47 Gary Wagner Jr. 120
3. 99 Craig Whitmoyer 115
4. 26 Thomas "Tom" Brennan 110
5. 7X Scott Singley 105
6. 84 LeRoy Long 100
7. 72 Raymond Woodall Jr. 95
8. 6 JR Kevin Beach Jr. 90
9. 64 Andy Miller 85
10. 77 Tom Miller 80
11. 17 Billy Moyer Jr. 75
12. 95 Freddie Fisher 70
13. 2 Rich Stankiewitz 65
14. 221 Rob Gibson 60
15. 71 Mike Mammana 55
16. 98 Tim Apgar 50
17. 14 Louie Mitchalk 45
18. 19 Brad Brightbill 40
19. 56 Shawn Heistand 35
20. 17R Kevin Nolf 30
21. 21 Dave Lauver 25
22. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer 20
23. 5W Pat Wall 15
24. 917 Jarrad Miller 10
25. 0 Kevin Brady 5
26. 11 AJ Desantis 5
27. 110 Bill Finneran III 5
28. 73 Darrel Herman 5
29. 67 Matt Krause 5
30. 6C Craig Richards 5
31. 113 Jeff Sterner 5
32. 84Y Jamie Yankowski 5


COMING EVENTS:
Friday April 28, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS
Friday May 5, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS
Friday May 12, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS


MOTHER NATURE WASHES AWAY FRIDAY NIGHT’S CARD AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY…By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – April 21, 2006 – The pit area was filled with a talented array of drivers and cars Friday night at the Big Diamond Raceway. As competitors were shaking down their equipment for slow laps, a mist began to fill the air. In time, rain had taken center stage. The wet weather led to the cancellation of Friday evening’s program at about 7:30PM. For those that were in attendance, rain checks will be good for the next three events.

This was the second Friday postponement of the season as Mother Nature has certainly been opposing Friday night racing for some reason. BDR has been able to complete a pair of exciting and action packed events thus far on Sundays. Tom Brennan of Pottsville PA won an Open Competition Sportsman race over a plethora of racing talent on April 2nd. Most recently, on Easter Sunday April 16th, Jeff Strunk of Bethel PA throttled to a thrilling last lap victory in the 358 Modified 35-lap season opener, and it had the entire crowd on their collective feet.

Big Diamond Raceway will now present their initial Friday night race of the season this upcoming Friday night, April 28. Warm-ups begin at 7:00PM with qualifying taking the green flag at 7:30PM. The 358 Modifieds will be joined by Sportsman, Roadrunners, and 600 Modifieds.

In the 358 Modified division opening day winner, Jeff Strunk, will certainly have his hands full with a very capable field of competition. Former track champion, Duane Howard of Oley PA finished a close second in the opener and will be strong this season aboard the Chad Sinon owned Motorsports entry. Three-time defending track champion Doug Hoffman of Allentown PA looks to rebound from his seventh place finish in the opener behind the wheel of “Moose” Eisenhard’s #77. The deck is indeed stacked with talent as drivers such as Doug Manmiller, Craig Von Dohren, Kenny Brightbill, Meme DeSantis, Billy Pauch Jr. and Sr., Rick Laubach, Ray Swinehart, Jason Hamilton, Shawn and Tim Fitzpatrick, John Willman, Ryan Watt, and many others will wage war on the speedway.

Josh Biever of Landingville PA raced to a popular victory in the April 16 Sportsman main event. It was Biever’s first career win. Likewise, Biever will face the difficult chore of repeating in victory lane as the list of Sportsman competition is very impressive. Former track champions Tom Brennan and Craig Whitmoyer will be searching for a first regular season victory along with former main event winners Brad Brightbill, Fred Fisher, Rob Gibson, Billy Moyer Jr., Scott Singley, and Gary Wagner.

Jason Sherman of Tower City PA won a flag to flag 15-lap feature win the Roadrunner portion of the April 16 card. Kevin Holland of Pine Grove PA actually won the season’s first race on April 2nd. The class will be looking for a possible third straight victorious driver when racing swings back into action this Friday night. Former feature winners Tory Jenkins, Elvin Brennan, Tom Hablett, Kirby Schlappich, and Dan Strenkoski will be searching for their first wins of ’06 along with a capable field of Roadrunner racers.

The 600 Modifieds are a popular scaled down version of today’s Modified machinery. They will have six BDR dates this season including the upcoming race on April 28. The 600 Modified season opener at Thunder Mountain Speedway was canceled due to rain so this week’s 600 show at BDR will be the tour’s season opener for 2006.

Weekly Friday night racing will continue at Big Diamond Raceway with the same starting times as mentioned above. Please check the speedway’s official website, www.bigdiamondraceway.com for all of the latest news and results.


COMING EVENTS:
Friday April 21, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS
Friday April 28, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS, 600 MODIFIEDS

JEFF STRUNK WINS 358 MODIFIED THRILLER AT BIG DIAMOND;JOSH BIEVER TAKES FIRST CAREER SPORTSMAN WIN AND JASON SHERMAN WINS NON-STOP ROADRUNNER MAIN EVENT…By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – April 16, 2006 – Four-time track champion, Jeff Strunk of Bethel PA, emerged victorious in a thrilling 35-lap Mystic Screen Printing Easter Sunday Spectacular held at the Big Diamond Raceway. This particular event was the official season opener for the headlining 358-Modified class. Strunk passed race leader Duane Howard of Oley PA on the final lap to score the victory.

Josh Biever of Landingville PA quickly turned the trick in the Sportsman class as he won his first career main event. Jason Sherman of Tower City PA led all 15-laps of the Roadrunner feature and the third year racer stormed to victory circle for his first win of the season. The three-division card was presented in front of a tremendous crowd, possibly one of the largest in Diamond history.

To say that Strunk endured a test filled evening would certainly be an understatement. In his qualifying heat race, Strunk started from the last (tenth) position. He rallied to grab the apparent victory, however, his machine crossed the scales underweight. Strunk’s next chore was to qualify through the first consolation race. After starting from last, Strunk crossed the line in second place. When apparent race winner, Billy Pauch Jr. showed up light at the scale though Strunk was named the consi winner and would start 21st in the A-Main. And in the feature, yet another curve was thrown in Strunk’s direction. On the fourth lap, a softening left front tire forced Strunk into the pits, which aligned him at the rear of the pack for a restart. Strunk began his miraculous charge through the field from this point.

Doug Manmiller pounced into the initial lead from his outside front row starting spot. Ray Swinehart seized control of the runner-up spot on lap two and immediately pressured the leader. Swinehart found success on the outside groove and sliced past Manmiller as the pair crossed the start/finish line to score lap five. Two circuits later, Duane Howard (who started fourteenth) passed Manmiller for second. Howard joined Swinehart in a terrific battle for the lead as numerous laps continued.

Swinehart remained in the high groove, while Howard constantly looked for passing room on the inside as they raced closely through the corners. On the 25th lap, Howard just nipped Swinehart at the line to grab the top spot. A caution flag was unfurled, however, and as per Diamond rules half of the field must cross the line in order for the lap to be scored. Since only seven cars were across, lap 25 was not scored and Swinehart remained in front for the restart.

Under green conditions the Swinehart-Howard show continued. The war picked up where it left off as Howard slid his machine to the inside groove while Swinehart remained on the outside. On the 27th lap, Howard grabbed the lead as the pair raced out of turn four to complete the circuit. Meanwhile, Strunk was galloping through the field. He passed Manmiller for third on lap 21. With 29 laps showing on the counter, Strunk secured the runner-up spot from Swinehart while racing down the backstretch. Shortly after completing the 29th tour, Swinehart’s fine effort ended as his machine trailed smoke into the pit area.

During the final five laps, Strunk was closing on Howard. The raced nose to tail in the corners and kept about a car length between one another on the straightaways. Strunk waited until the final lap to make his winning pass. In turns one and two, Strunk pulled alongside of Howard and Strunk became the new race leader down the backstretch. Ironically Strunk powered his new 2006 ride, the Johnny Rea owned #1 to the winner’s circle (worth $2000) ahead of his old ride, the Chad Sinon fielded #4 driven by Howard. It was Strunk’s 26th career Diamond triumph.

Manmiller, driving his self-owned #00, finished third while fifteenth place starter Rick Laubach drove the Dick Biever #14 to fourth. Craig Von Dohren, in Mike Harvey’s #1c, survived a few accidents along the way to rally into fifth during the race’s final moments. Invading New York based driver Brian Weaver placed sixth and he was followed by defending track champion Doug Hoffman, John Willman, Sean Merkel, and Ryan Watt.

A good field of 39 358 Modifieds raced in four qualifying heats with wins going to Manmiller, Howard, Von Dohren, and Meme DeSantis. Consi winners were Jeff Strunk and Colt Harris.

Biever drew the outside pole for the start of the 20-lap Sportsman feature. He traced race leader Leroy Long during the contest’s opening stages. After a side-by-side battle on lap 9, Biever drove his car to the inside of Long on lap ten to become the new race leader. Gary Wagner (started fifth) worked past Long for second on the twelfth circuit.

The event’s final eighth laps were completed caution free and Biever continued to show the way up front. Wagner watrched from the second position, however, was unable to mount a challenge as laps ticked away. Biever raced to victory lane for his first career victory in his Teo-46. Wagner, a three-time career winner, crossed the line in second.

Craig Whitmoyer rebounded from a rough Opening Day on April 2 by finishing third. Tom Brennan, the feature winner from 4/2, ended up fourth and he was followed by fourteenth place starter Scott Singley. Long, who also races four cylinder Stock Cars at other area speedways, finished sixth ahead of Ray Woodall Jr., Kevin Beach, Andy Miller, and Tom Miller.

Heats for the 32 cars present were won by Singley, Beach, and Whitmoyer. Tom Miller won the consi. Gary Wagner earned the $25 bonus from Shiley Fabrications for setting fast time in the feature with a lap of 18.578.

Sherman drew the pole for the Roadrunner feature. He convincingly led every lap as this event was completed in fine caution-free style. Sherman enjoyed a half straight lead during much of the contest. He survived a scare when he avoided a slowing car with three laps remaining. Sherman throttled his green #721 to his third career feature victory.

Sophomore racer Ryan Olenick started sixth and advanced into second on lap six. He remained there at the finish. Veteran racer Eric Pinkerton finished third and he was followed by tenth starter Joey Hendricks and Opening Day winner Kevin Holland (from twelfth). 18 Roadrunners were present for their show.

The Easter Bunny was on hand giving out special prizes to children and adults throughout the course of the evening. It was part of a beautiful day, weather-wise for the Easter Special.

This Friday night April 21, Big Diamond Raceway returns to its normal night of racing. A three division card of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners will be on the card. Warm-ups begin at 7:00PM with the first heat going green at 8:00PM.

FULL FINISH SUMMARY – BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY – APRIL 2, 2006
358 MODIFIED FEATURE (30-LAPS): 1) Jeff Strunk, 2) Duane Howard, 3) Doug Manmiller, 4) Rick Laubach, 5) Craig Von Dohren, 6) Brian Weaver, 7) Doug Hoffman, 8) John Willman, 9) Sean Merkel, 10) Ryan Watt, 11) John Tschudy, 12) Jason Hamilton, 13) Tim Fitzpatrick, 14) Sam Schaeffer, 15) Rich Wisdo, 16) Bruce Hirthler, 17) Tommy Scheetz, 18) Neil Huber, 19) Ray Swinehart, 20) Jeff Sechrist, 21) Kevin Hartnett, 22) Doug Hendricks, 23) Billy Pauch, 24) Shawn Fitzpatrick, 25) Colt Harris, 26) Kevin Hirthler, 27) Kenny Brightbill, 28) Meme DeSantis. DNQ: Billy Pauch Jr., Ryan Beltz, Dale Roth, Roy Wiest, Justin Andrews, Carol Hines III, Greg Weiland, Andy Fayash Jr., Steve Lozorak, Kenny Eckert, Dale Hartz.

HEAT RACE WINNERS: Doug Manmiller, Duane Howard, Meme DeSantis, Craig Von Dohren
CONSOLATION WINNERS: Jeff Strunk, Colt Harris
FEATURE LAP LEADERS: D. Manmiller (1-4), R. Swinehart (5-26), D. Howard (27-34), J. Strunk (35)

SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20-LAPS): 1) Josh Biever, 2) Gary Wagner, 3) Craig Whitmoyer, 4) Tom Brennan, 5) Scott Singley, 6) Leory Long, 7) Ray Woodall Jr., 8) Kevin Beach, 9) Andy Miller, 10) Tom Miller, 11) Billy Moyer Jr., 12) Fred Fisher, 13) Rich Stankiewicz, 14) Rob Gibson, 15) Mike Mammana, 16) Tim Apgar, 17) Louie Mitchalk, 18) Brad Brightbill, 19) Kevin Nolf, 20) Shawn Heistand, 21) Dave Lauver, 22) Jordan Umbenhauer, 23) Pat Wall, 24) Jarrad Miller. DNQ: Darrel Herman, A.J. DeSantis, Matt Krause, Jeff Sterner, Bill Finneran, Craig Richards, Jamie Yankowski, Kevin Brady.

HEAT RACE WINNERS: Scott Singley, Kevin Beach, Craig Whitmoyer.
CONSOLATION WINNER: Tom Miller
FEATURE LAP LEADERS: L. Long (1-9), J. Biever (10-20)

ROADRUNNER FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Jason Sherman, 2) Ryan Olenick, 3) Eric Pinkerton, 4) Joey Hendricks, 5) Kevin Holland, 6) Elvin Brennan, 7) Jeremy Becker, 8) Corey Sechrist, 9) Tom Hablett, 10) Derek Bender, 11) Kirby Schlappich, 12) Andy Zvorsky, 13) Dan Strenkoski, 14) Andy Fayash III, 15), Tory Jenkins, 16) Gary Renninger, 17) Bud Vidal.

FEATURE LAP LEADERS: J. Sherman (15)


MYSTIC SCREEN PRINTING EASTER SPECTACULAR THIS SUNDAY APRIL 16 AT BIG
DIAMOND RACEWAY

This Sunday April 16, Big Diamond Raceway in Minersville, Pa kicks off
their 2006 chase for the championship as part of the 1st Annual Mystic
Screen Printing Easter Sunday Spectacular. The point battle begins for
the 358 modified, sportsman, and roadrunner classes. Big Diamond's 358
modified class will race 35 laps for a increased payoff of $2,000 to
win, $1,500 for second, and 1,200 for third. Sportsman competitors have
an added incentive to compete at Big Diamond Raceway, if there are more
than 40 cars in attendance Twin 20 lap feature events will be run, with
a driver being guaranteed to start one of the two feature events, which
will be determined by draw. Each sportsman event will pay $500 to win,
in the event there is under 40 cars the 20 lap single feature event
will pay $600 to the winner. The always exciting roadrunner class will
race a 15 lap feature event.

Easter Sunday night at Big Diamond Raceway will be filled with fun and
surprises as fans of all ages will be treated to a visit by the Easter
Bunny , a bicycle give-away, and a variety of other gifts and
give-aways throughout the evening. Some of the best drivers in the
NorthEast have plans to compete at Big Diamond on Easter Sunday night
as Doug Hoffman, Billy Pauch, Kenny Brightbill, Duane Howard, Craig
VonDohren, Jeff Strunk, Doug Manmiller, Ray Swinehart, and Schuylkill
County drivers Shawn Fitzpatrick and Doug Hendricks, as well a host of
others have expressed their intentions of being in attendance for the
Easter Sunday Spectacular. Gates will open at 3pm, Warm-Ups 5:15pm,
Heat races begin at 6pm. Admission for Adults is $14, Seniors and
Students $12, and Children 10 & under are free. For directions and
information check out the track's website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

NOTE TO COMPETITORS- For this event, cars are required to run steel
wheels with BGP stamped tires on the REAR only.


COMING EVENTS:
Sunday April 16, 6PM – 358 MODIFIEDS (35), SPORTSMAN (25), ROADRUNNERS (20)
Friday April 21, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS

BIG DIAMOND MODIFIED OPENER FALLS TO WET WEATHER

Minersville Pa--- The Friday night opener scheduled for tonight April 7 at Big Diamond Raceway has been cancelled due to wet weather conditions. " Rain arrived in Minersville as we were making track preparations for tonight's modified opener, the new clay surface becomes very moist when it becomes saturated and being as humid as it is today we would be fighting a up hill battle even if the rain would stop by our planned starting time. With gas prices on the increase we feel it is better to make a educated decision rather than people make a useless trip." commented Buddy Biever from the Raceway at noon time Friday.


BIG DIAMOND ADDS INCENTIVE FOR SPORTSMAN SUPPORT AND
ANNOUNCES MOTOR RULING


Big Diamond Raceway management has come up with a incentive for
sportsman racers to compete at Big Diamond Raceway this season. "If we
have the support of 40 or more sportsman cars on any night of
competition in 2006, we will not be running qualifying heat races. We
will however be giving competitors an additional set of warm-ups, then
splitting the field into (2)-20 lap feature events based on the number
of cars that show up and every sportsman competitor that makes the
trip to Big Diamond will be eligible to start (1) of the 20 lap feature events
paying $500 to win, explained track partner Dave Dissinger."

In another announcement made by Dissinger, non-ported Dart iron heads
(180cc) will be legal for Big Diamond Raceway sportsman competition
with the weight allowance being 2500 lbs. If a competitor wishes to
run ported Dart iron heads the weight allowance will be 2600 lbs.

"With these rules and incentives track management has hopes of having
many of the New Jersey and New York teams return to Big Diamond for
sportsman competition, knowing they will run a feature event in return
of their support. " said Dissinger.


COMING EVENTS:
Friday April 7, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS
Sunday April 16, 6PM – 358 MODIFIEDS (35), SPORTSMAN (25), ROADRUNNERS (20)
Friday April 21, 7:30PM – 358 MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNERS


NEW ERA OFFICIALLY BEGINS AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY;TOM BRENNAN AND KEVIN HOLLAND EMERGE VICTORIOUS…
By Gary Lileck

Forestville, PA – April 2, 2006 – A new era commenced this past Sunday evening at the Big Diamond Raceway. Although a new promotional team, consisting of Buddy Biever, Barry Bashore, and Dave Dissinger, have taken command, familiar faces graced victory lane for the 2006 season opener.

Tom Brennan of Pottsville PA wired the field to earn a victory in the 25-lap Open Competition Sportsman feature. Brennan, who has won a combined four championships during his celebrated Diamond career, started on the pole via luck of the draw. Brennan never looked back and held a wide array of talent behind to collect the main event victory, his ninth career in the Coal Region.

Kevin Holland of Pine Grove PA likewise started from inside pole for his main event, the 15-lap Roadrunner feature. Holland conducted the train for all fifteen laps and scored his twelfth career triumph.

A marvelous field of 43 Sportsman graced the pit area for the season opener. 28 competitors qualified for the 25-lap A-main, as a mix of regulars and invaders filled out the entire starting field. Brennan won his ten-lap heat race after starting from the back and then drew the finest spot of all for the start of the feature, first.

Brennan steered his Dirt Wheels #26 to the front at the drop of the initial green. Bridgeport (NJ) Speedway regulars Drew Ricco (Belmar NJ) and John Stangle (Neshanic Station NJ) followed in pursuit during the event’s early moments. A tangle involving Clay Butler and John Pratt forced a caution flag with two circuits on the board. After an immediate tangle on the restart, green racing continued with a battle phasing up front between Brennan and Ricco.

Ricco battled with Brennan while racing on the outside, but Brennan held him off at the line to score lap three. Tenth place starter Mike Lyons (Cranberry NJ) disposed of Stangle for the third spot. With four laps complete, Stangle spun in turn two and was joined in the corner by an oncoming Pratt. After a false start and a Pratt/Ken Hammond turn one tangle, the new restart order read Brennan followed by Ricco, Lyons, John McClelland, and Gary Wagner (Womelsdorf PA).

Brennan paced the field under green while Lyons passed Ricco for second on lap six. The caution lights flashed for a pair of incidents on laps eight and nine. A sixth running Rich Scagliotta was involved in the lap eight accident after his car spun in turn two after contact. Racing would continue green from lap ten through sixteen. Brennan had built a full straightaway advantage over Ricco and company just before the yellow flag period, which was necessitated for Jeff McCaughey on the inside of turn two. The contest’s final caution stoppage took place on lap 18 for New York invading driver Steve Babacheck.

The final seven circuits were completed under clean and green circumstances. Brennan proceeded to dominate as he drew away from the field. Brennan raced to the brand new Pioneer Pole Buildings (Schuylkill Haven) victory lane after accomplishing a wire to wire feature victory. Lyons always competes strongly during his rare Diamond appearances and held on for second. Ricco, in his first ever Diamond start, finished third. Wagner moved into fourth on lap nine and remained in the position, while Mclelland ended up fifth. Scott Singley and Jason Hamilton actually crossed the finish line in fifth and sixth, however, both were light at the scale and disqualified.

Rounding out the top ten were: Josh Biever (Landingville PA), rookie Kevin Beach (Llewellyn PA), Gene Stravinsky (New Egypt NJ), Justin Hoffman, and Billy Moyer Jr. (Pine Grove PA). Qualifying heat race winners were Steve Babacheck (Binghamton NY), Gary Wagner, Tom Brennan, and Rich Scagliotta (Bound Brook NJ). Consolation victors were Brad Brightbill and Jordan Umbenhauer. Brennan incidentally grabbed the $25 bonus courtesy of Shiley Fabrications for setting the quickest lap time in the A-main with a trip of 18.072.

Kevin Holland led a field of 17 Roadrunners to their initial green flag in a special Big Diamond vs. Selinsgrove (PA) Speedway challenge event. Holland led early followed by sophomore racers Tory Jenkins (Schuylkill Haven PA)and Ryan Olenick (Forestville PA). Jenkins remained in the runner-ups spot until the sixth circuit when his machine collided with the turn four wall. At the half-way marker, Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven PA) and Jeremy Becker (Forestville PA) hauled past Olenick for second and third respectively. Olenick spun in turn four of lap ten to bring out one of seven caution flags.

Holland continued to show strength as the race wound down. He pulled away on lap eleven and fourteen restarts. Holland guided his #66 Nova SS to the season opener feature victory with safe distance between himself and second place. The runner-up battle went right down to the wire as Hablett, on the outside groove, just held off Becker for the spot. Last year’s opening day winner, Kirby Schlappich (Hamburg PA) finished fourth and he was followed by a resurgent Olenick.

Heats for the 18 Roadrunners present were won by Holland and Jenkins. Holland picked up the $125 top prize plus the $50 bonus for first legal Diamond Roadrunner across the start/finish line.

The 358 Modifieds held several practice sessions during the course of the evening. Over 20 Modifieds took advantage of the special test and tune. They were preparing for this Friday night April 7. The 358 Modifieds will be joined by the Sportsman and Roadrunners for the initial Friday night race of 2006. Warm-ups start at 7PM with the first qualifying heat going green at 7:30PM.

FULL FINISH SUMMARY – BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY – APRIL 2, 2006
OPEN COMPETITION SPORTSMAN FEATURE (25-LAPS): 1) Tom Brennan, 2) Mike Lyons, 3) Drew Ricco, 4) Gary Wagner, 5) John McClelland, 6) Josh Biever, 7) Kevin Beach, 8) Gene Stravinsky, 9) Justin Hoffman, 10) Billy Moyer Jr., 11) Luke Wagner, 12) Brad Force, 13) Ryan Moyer, 14) Tim Apgar, 15) Steve Babacheck, 16) Jeff McCaughey, 17) Jordan Umbenhauer, 18) Rob Gibson, 19) James Morris, 20) Rich Scagliotta, 21) John Stangle, 22) John Pratt, 23) Ken Hammond, 24) Mike Loney, 25) Clay Butler, 26) Brad Brightbill. DQ: Scott Singley, Jason Hamilton.

HEAT RACE WINNERS: Steve Babacheck, Gary Wagner, Tom Brennan, Rich Scagliotta
CONSOLATION WINNERS: Brad Brightbill, Jordan Umbenhauer
FEATURE LAP LEADERS: Tom Brennan (25)

ROADRUNNER FEATURE (15-LAPS): 1) Kevin Holland, 2) Tom Hablett, 3) Jeremy Becker, 4) Kirby Schlappich, 5) Ryan Olenick, 6) Corey Sechrist, 7) Elvin Brennan, 8) Joey Hendricks, 9) Gary Renninger, 10) Dan Strenkoski, 11) Jason Hernly, 12) Andy Zvorsky, 13) Bud Vidal, 14) Tory Jenkins, 15) Jason Sherman, 16) Eric Pinkerton, 17) Dave Miller. DNS: Doug Minium.

HEAT RACE WINNERS: Kevin Holland, Tory Jenkins
FEATURE LAP LEADERS: Kevin Holland (15)


SUPER SAVINGS SUNDAY FEATURES OPEN COMPETITION SPORTSMAN AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY OPENER APRIL 2

Big Diamond Raceway will be hosting its 35th season of auto racing this Sunday April 2, 2006. This year will be the first season of competition under the new management team of Dave Dissinger, Buddy Biever, and Barry Bashore. " To show the fans how much we appreciate their support Dave, Barry, and I decided to make Sunday's opener one of Super Savings by charging $6.00 for a adult grandstand ticket." commented Buddy Biever.

The program will kick off with a practice session for the 358 Modified division followed by a complete program of open competition Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners. The Sportsman feature has been increased to 25 laps as well as a increase in pay out. "The response we have been getting from the sportsman racers has really been encouraging for Sunday's opener. We have decided to give them a few extra laps to showcase their division as well as offer a increased purse that will be dictated by the car count we receive. There is a lot of interest from the New York and New Jersey contingent that are ready to do battle with our Big Diamond regulars and see what improvements we have made to the facility." commented track partner Buddy Biever.

Also, the show will include a open competition Roadrunner event (Big Diamond drivers vs.Selinsgrove drivers) paying $125 to win the 15-lap event. The first Big Diamond legal roadrunner across the finish line will receive an additional $50.00.

Pit and grandstand gates will open at 3:00 pm with warm-ups starting at 5:00 pm and the first heat race hitting the track at 6:00 pm. As mentioned the event will be a fan friendly $6.00 for adult grandstand admission and $4.00 for students age 11-17 and seniors (60+), all children 10 and under will be admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Competitors will also enjoy a special $20 admission for the pits and no license is required. 2006 Big Diamond pit licenses ($50) will also be on sale during the evening for teams wishing to purchase theirs in advance for the following week of competition. For all the latest happenings with Big Diamond Raceway check out the newly designed website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com. Please note the NEW phone number for Big Diamond Raceway is (570) 544-1410.

SPORTSMAN RULES FOR SUNDAY APRIL 2:
2450lb weight limit with 92" tires that must have a home track stamp on them


SPECIAL RULE AMENDMENT FOR ROADRUNNER DIVISION

Minersville, Pa March 18, 2006... After a open forum discussion this
week at the Big Diamond Raceway mall show a amendment has been made to
the divisions rule book. Racing fuel will be permitted for use in the
roadrunner class, also air pressure in the right front tire must be a
minimum of 15 lbs at the time of post race inspection.


BIG DIAMOND KICKS OFF 35th SEASON APRIL 2 WITH FAN FRIENDLY $6 ADMISSION PROGRAM

Big Diamond Raceway will be hosting its 35th season of racing on Sunday April 2, 2006. This year will be the first season of competition under the new management team of Dave Dissinger, Buddy Biever, and Barry Bashore.
The 2006 season will kick off with an open competition Sportsman event paying $700 to win the 20-lap main event. All cars must be legal for their respective home track, including tires. Please note that the Big Diamond 2450lb weight limits will apply to all competitors. "The response we have been getting from the sportsman racers has really been encouraging for our opener. There is a lot of interest from the New York and New Jersey contingent that are ready to do battle with our Big Diamond regulars and see what improvements we have made to the facility." commented track partner Buddy Biever.
Also, the show will include a open competition Roadrunner event (Big Diamond vs. Selinsgrove) paying $125 to win the 15-lap event. The first Big Diamond legal roadrunner across the finish line will receive an additional $50.00. Warm-ups will begin at 5:00 pm with the Modified class testing throughout the evening. The event will be a fan friendly $6.00 for a adult grandstand admission and $4.00 for students age 11-17 and seniors (60+), all children 10 and under will be admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Competitors will also enjoy a special $20 admission for the pits and no license is required. For all the latest happenings with Big Diamond Raceway check out the newly designed website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com. Please note the NEW phone number for Big Diamond Raceway @ (570) 544-1410.


SNEAK PEAK SUNDAY ANNOUNCED FOR MARCH 26 AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY

Minersville, Pa March 18, 2006... The management team of Big Diamond Raceway will offer a sneak peak to fans and competitors on Sunday March 26 from 11:00 am until 5:00 pm. Speedway gates will be open on this day for people to have a preview of the improvements and renovations that have been underway since early January. The pit office will also be open for competitors to get a jump on purchasing their pit license's for the 2006 season, although a license will not be required. The cost for a pit license is $50, the weekly pit fee will be $25 with a license and $35 without. The track will also have a supply of tires at the speedway on March 26, competitors wanting to pick up specific tires on that day are encouraged to call Jason Bashore at (717)933-1698 to place your order. Be sure to check out the track's all new website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


ATTENTION ALL BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY COMPETITORS-

The speedway now has all sizes of tires available for all classes and
competitors looking to purchase them prior to our Sunday April 2,
opening day and practice. Interested race teams may contact Jason
Bashore at  (717) 933-1698 to accommodate your needs. A portion of the
tire sales from the speedway will go into the year end 2006 point fund
for Big Diamond Raceway. Competitors are not required to purchase their
tires from the track and are welcome to deal with their usual parts retailers.


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY MALL SHOW TO INCLUDE OPEN DISCUSSION FORUMS FOR COMPETITORS

March 6, 2006 - Big Diamond Raceway in conjunction with Schuylkill Mall kicks off their annual mall show beginning Sunday March 12 through Saturday March 18 in Frackville, Pa. 2006 schedule cards as well as pit license's will be available during the show.

Big Diamond Raceway management will also be holding a open forum discussion on site for competitors of their respective classes to attend during the course of the mall show week. " This opportunity will allow track management and competitors to become familiar with one another and to answer answer any question and concerns regarding the upcoming 2006 season as it is fast approaching." commented Buddy Biever.

COMPETITORS OPEN FORUM SCHEDULE-
Tuesday March 14@ 7pm- Roadrunners
Wednesday March 15 @7pm- Sportsman
Thursday March 16 @7pm -Modifieds

All competitors displaying their cars must contact Buddy Biever at (570)385-0744 to confirm plans for displaying their cars. Also, Armor All type products will be strictly prohibited on the tires of displayed cars. Cars will enter the mall at 9:00 am Sunday at the backside entrance located near Sears. Cars will leave the mall upon closing on Saturday March 18.

The mall event will give fans and competitors a chance to meet the new management team and to preview many of the cars that will be in competition each and every Friday night at Big Diamond Raceway in Minersville, Pa. Fans interested in attending the show may visit the mall website at http://www.shopschuylkillmall.com for hours and directions as well as a listing of stores featured throughout the mall.


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY ANNOUNCES LATEST INCENTIVE FOR RACERS

With the start of the 2006 racing season just around the corner and a
new management team in place at Big Diamond Raceway, Shiley Fabrication
and Big Diamond Raceway are proud to announce the creation of a new
award to be presented weekly.

“The Shiley Fabrication Fast Lap Award”

The award, $50.00 for the 358 Modified division and $25.00 for the
Sportsman division, will be given to the driver who records the fastest
lap of their feature event.

To qualify for the award, the car must display a contingency sticker in
a designated location on both sides of the car. The car will be
inspected following the event for the sticker and if displayed
properly, the award will be placed in the competitors pay-out envelope.
In the event the award recipient does not carry the proper sticker, a
portion of the award will be contributed to the Georgie Stevenson
Memorial fund."I am really excited about Shiley Fabrication making this
contribution to our weekly racing program. New Egypt Speedway has a
very similar and successful program in place and as a car owner I know
that many of these competitors will shoot for any possible incentive
that is put before them and it also builds interest within the nightly
feature events." commented Big Diamond Raceway partner Buddy Biever.

Shiley Fabrication Racing Components & Speed Equipment manufactures
front axles, bumpers, rubrails, bodies, body mounts, heavy aluminum
noses, radius rods and adjustable panhard set-ups, as well as, stocked
parts from the following manufacturers:

Bicknell Racing Products A-1 Racing Products
Teo Fabrications Panelfast Fasteners
Behrents Performance Warehouse Winters
Wilwood Brakes QA1
Bert Transmissions Fram

Services available are: chassis repair, transmission and rear end rebuilds.

For more information, call Shiley Fabrication at 717-647-7567 or
717-329-6382 or send an email to: fabman@pa.net.


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY ANNOUNCES MALL SHOW PLANS
January 21, 2006

In a joint announcement made today the Schuylkill Mall in Frackville,
Pa and Big Diamond Raceway have agreed to hold their annual mall show
on the dates of March 12 through March 18, 2006. "The management at
Schuylkill Mall was very helpful and willing to accommodate our request
to hold a season preview event for the fans and racers ", commented Big
Diamond Raceway partner Buddy Biever. The event will give fans and
competitors a chance to meet the new management team and to preview
many of the cars that will be in competition each and every Friday
night at Big Diamond Raceway in Minersville, Pa. Teams interested in
displaying their cars may contact Buddy Biever at (570)385-0744 for
details. Fans interested in attending the show may visit the mall
website at http://www.shopschuylkillmall.com for hours and directions
as well as a listing of stores featured throughout the mall.


Opening Day Set For April 2 at Big Diamond Raceway

January 16, 2006… Big Diamond Raceway will be kicking off its 35th season of racing on Sunday April 2, 2006. This year will be the first season of competition under the new management team.

The season will kick off with an open competition Sportsman event paying $700 to win for their 20-lap main event. All cars must be legal for their respective home track, including tires. The Big Diamond 2450lb and 2600lb weight limits will apply. Also, the show will include a open competition Roadrunner event (Big Diamond vs. Selinsgrove) paying $125 to win their 15-lap event. The first Big Diamond legal roadrunner across the finish line will receive an additional $50.00. Concluding the evening will be a test and tune for Modifieds, 600 Modifieds, and Sportsman. Warm ups will begin at 5:30 pm with Modifieds testing throughout the evening. The event will be a affordable $6.00 for a adult grandstand admission and $4.00 for students age 11-17 and seniors (60+), all children 10 and under will be admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Our second event of the season will be on Friday evening April 7, this night will begin Big Diamond Raceway’s regular show schedule and point events for the Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners. Warm-ups will begin promptly at 7:20 pm. Admission will be $12 for adults, $10 for students 11-17 and seniors (60+), children 10 and under under will be admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Our third event of the 2006 season will be a Easter Sunday Special and our celebrated grand opening scheduled for Sunday April 16. The evening is slated to start at 6:00 pm. This event will be filled with added excitement, as all divisions will run a few extra laps for a increased purse, and fans of all ages will be treated to a few surprises during the evening. As part of the grand opening special admission will remain at $12 for adults, $10 for students over 11-17 and seniors (60+), children 10 and under free will be admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.

The tracks fourth event, to be held on Friday night April 21, will begin our weekly Friday night racing schedule of modifieds, sportsman, and roadrunners that will continue for the remainder of the season. This event will begin with a preliminary scheduled starting time of 7:20 pm for warm-ups. Big Diamond Raceway’s goal is to have all fans enjoy an action packed night of entertainment and be on their way home by 11:00 pm on a regular basis.

With the addition of the new management team and improvements to the facility, there will be three new hospitality booths available for the 2006 season. BD Raceway, LLC has been aggressively pursuing companies to advertise at Big Diamond Raceway with over half the events already carrying sponsorship. Details on event sponsorship, billboard advertising, program book advertising, or special award advertising can be obtained by contacting Chris Budihas of Racerboy Marketing at 610-776-0763 or email chris@racerboymarketing.com.

All of us here at Big Diamond Raceway would like to thank all the competitors and fans for their patience and support. We hope to see everyone at the track and fulfill your highest expectations. As always if fans or competitors have any questions or concerns please feel free to call BD Raceway, LLC (Buddy Biever) at 570-385-0744. Please note that a new race day phone # at the track will in place as we kick off 2006 at 570-544-1410.

Thank you for your interest in Big Diamond Raceway…
Buddy Biever
BD Raceway, LLC


Big Diamond 358 GENERAL MODIFIED ENGINE RULES
January 6, 2006…

The general engine rules are as follows:

Option 1 – 358 cubic inch * 9:1 compression (10.5:1 Spec. Head) *Methanol or Gas
Refer to Big Diamond / Grandview 2004-2006 Rulebook

• 650 Carburetor
• 6” maximum rod (unless manu. stock engine allows longer rod)
• No Seals required
• DART Blocks are permitted

Weight Requirements-
• Chevy 23 degree standard iron heads = 2400 lbs
• 10.5:1 Brodix Alum. spec head (Grandview 2006) = 2450 lbs
• Ford N, Dodge W2 iron heads = 2500 lbs
• Chevy GEN3 LS1 iron heads = 2550 lbs

Option 2 – 358 ci * 2006 DIRT Engine * Gas only
Refer to DIRT 2006 Rulebook

• 650 Carburetor
• No rev limiting MSD required
• 10.5:1 DIRT Spec Head = 2450 lbs
• DIRT iron heads = 2550 lbs

All engines must remain stock bore and stroke combinations.
• Chevy 350 – 363
• Chry. 360 – 364
• Chry. 340 – 350
• Ford 351- 363

BD Raceway, LLC recommends that all competitors using MSD ignitions purchase 6T ignition boxes. Random checks of ignition boxes or protests for traction control devices will require your MSD box to be pulled and replaced by a new MSD 6T box supplied by the track.

All weights are subject to constant review by BD Raceway, LLC to keep engine classes under even competition. BD Raceway, LLC has the option to amend any engine weight classification with at least one-week prior notice to all competitors.

Thank you for your continued support of Big Diamond Raceway
If you have any additional questions or concerns regarding rules for the 2006 season please call 570-385-0744 (evenings).

Buddy Biever
BD Raceway, LLC


Big Diamond Rules For Sportsman and Road Runners Rules:

1. Follow the Sportsman rules set forth in the 2004/2006 Big Diamond Raceway & Grandview Speedway rule book with the following exceptions and clarifications:
a. Sportsman can use any SFI approved harmonic balancer.
b. DIRT legal sportsman using the 2005 DIRT motor using an HEI ignition and weighing 2600 lb. will be allowed.
c. Big Diamond legal sportsman must weigh 2450 lb. minimum.
d. Maximum carburetor spacer adapter will be 1 1/16" including gaskets.

2. Follow the Road Runner rules set forth in the 2004/2006 Big Diamond Raceway & Grandview Speedway rule book with the following exceptions:
a. OEM aftermarket radiators will be allowed.
b. Optional wheel offsets will be allowed.


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY TO OPEN IN 2006

Pottsville, PA December 16, 2005… BDR, LLC is pleased to announce that there will be racing at Big Diamond Raceway in Minersville, PA for 2006 and beyond. BDR, LLC partner Buddy Biever has disclosed that the newly formed BDR, +LLC have agreed to terms, with Fritz and Krista Roehrig, on a multi year deal to promote and continue to hold races at the Schuylkill County dirt facility.

BDR, LLC apologizes to all fans and competitors for the amount of time it took to complete this deal and hopes everyone understands how hard both parties worked to get it done in a timely manner. Buddy states, “Both parties want this to succeed and took the time to cross the t’s and dot the i’s before the release could be made public. We thank Fritz for placing enough trust in us to preserve the long standing tradition of competitive dirt racing that he nurtured for over 30 years. The intentions of BDR, LLC is to provide a safe, competitive, affordable, and efficient form of entertainment.

In 2006, intensions are to present an entertaining program of 9:1 Small Block Modifieds, Sportsman, and Roadrunners every Friday night from April thru early September. More details such as a tentative schedule, competition rules, and competitor applications will become available as they are closer to finalization in January. At the delayed timing of this release there are bound to be more questions than answers to both competitors and spectators. Please be patient, we will release all information to fans and competitors immediately as they become available. In the short term, please feel free to call me at my home office, in the evenings, to address any concerns that cannot wait for a formal release at (570)385-0744.

Merry Christmas and thank you for your continued support of Big Diamond Raceway BDR, LLC.


From Fritz Roehrig, Big Diamond Raceway Owner/Promoter

As all of us know, there are seasons for everything in life. Here at Big Diamond we have had some great seasons in the past, and some bad ones too. But no seasons have compared to the unbearable ones over the last few years. In the past we called this “the cycle of racing” which revealed ups and downs of car counts and fans. However, there has been no rebounding as of late, and this last cycle has slid into a decline which has not recovered.

This past few seasons Big Diamond has witnessed some of the lowest car counts and fan counts in its 35 year history, which only made the prior declining seasons worse.

The writing is on the wall, and you just need to look at it through “business eyes” and see that the support of the past has significantly decreased, while the expense of racing has increased. Also, when your once successful main division becomes a liability instead of an asset, and your support divisions are actually healthier than your main division, the reality of this in dollars and cents is staggering.

To make matters worse the weather has not been cooperative; and in fact, over the past four seasons, one half of one season was completely rained out, and now this season on almost every Friday night except for a few, it rained, called for rain, showered, drizzled or threatened to rain even when it wasn’t supposed to. Even our Stevenson Memorial night fireworks display had to be shot off in the rain, and whatever fans were there had to watch it from their cars.

Let’s just face it, the rain has killed us. And when rain threatens, fans don’t come out like they used to. Years ago you could run a show in bad weather and either break even or lose some money, but with the expense of a big division, insurance, and fuel costs, you lose big money every event you run in bad weather.

Couple this with the fact that there is very little in the way of local support for the track. The demographics show that only 25% of our fan base is from Schuylkill County. It grieves me when a local business has to depend on outsiders for its main source of support. Nonetheless, its people from Berks, Lehigh, Bucks, Luzerne and Lackawanna counties—in addition to people from New Jersey—who attend and support events at Big Diamond. And with the rising cost of fuel in addition to little local support, these combined factors have devastated our business.

We’ve endured so long, but cannot continue doing so any longer. That being said, all these issues have cumulatively contributed to my decision to close the gates of Big Diamond Raceway indefinitely.

Currently, the 2005 season has one more race left on it, the second annual Enduro, promoted by my step-son Jake Smulley, on Sunday, September 18th at 2:00 PM. The race will definitely be run and it will not just close this season out, but will mark the end of Big Diamond as we know it.

This is a sad time for JoAnn and I, but things cannot continue as is. I am a businessman and have repeatedly evaluated the status of the track from this perspective…and the only conclusion one can come to is that the car support and fan support is no longer there. Because of that, we have no choice but to close down.

At the same time, as we were preparing to break the news to our long-time friend and race director Jeff Gromis, he was also preparing us with some devastating news of his own. Because of family commitments and his personal health, Jeff needs to step back from his second full-time job he held at Diamond for decades. Health and family are much more important than a job. I know that when I went through my health crisis after having a stroke in 2003, I had to pull back from track management and spend what little strength I had on track preparation. Jeff was instrumental in keeping Big Diamond operations afloat for us at that time, and we wouldn’t have been open these past few years were it not for him. We thank him for all his hard work and dedication, and for always going above and beyond the scope of his job. We wish him well and will be praying for him and his family. Jeff is emphatically one of my best friends and confidants—and that will never change.

JoAnn and I wish to thank all the drivers, crews, officials, fans, sponsors, workers, and all those who participated in dirt track racing at Big Diamond over the years. While this season of our lives is now over, we don’t know what the future holds, but we do know that the seasons we have all shared over the past 35 years have come to an end.

Thank you everyone, and God bless.
Fritz Roehrig


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY POSTPONED FRIDAY & SUNDAY RACING LAST WEEKEND;
COAL CRACKER 100 & SPORTSMAN 50 CANCELED FOR 2005, MAY BE RUN IN SPRING 2006


Minersville, PA – Sept. 7, 2005 – With the local gasoline chaos in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina’s devastation of the Gulf Coast last week, Big Diamond Raceway promoter Fritz Roehrig decided to postpone all racing at Big Diamond Raceway scheduled for this past weekend.
After reviewing racing schedules, there are no clear Saturday dates that have no conflicts with existing events at other speedways or RoC at least through early October and the track has decided not to challenge high school football on Fridays or NEXTEL Cup and the NFL on television on Sundays. Thus the Sportsman 50 and Coal Cracker 100 will not be run this season but could be run early in the year next season.
The Enduro scheduled at the speedway on September 18 is still on for now.


High Gas Prices, Conservation Request Prompts Decision
BIG DIAMOND POSTPONES FRIDAY & SUNDAY RACING THIS WEEKEND;
COAL CRACKER 100 & HOOVER CHEVROLET SPORTSMAN 50 NOT YET RESCHEDULED


Minersville, PA – Sept. 1, 2005 – With the local gasoline chaos in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina’s devastation of the Gulf Coast last week, Big Diamond Raceway promoter Fritz Roehrig has decided to postpone all racing at Big Diamond Raceway scheduled for this weekend.

The Friday evening (September 2) Hoover Chevrolet / GM Performance Parts Sportsman 50 card has been postponed as well as the Sunday evening September 4) Coal Cracker 100 for Modifieds and Roadrunner 20. Dates for these events will not be announced until the current gasoline situation in Schuylkill County substantially improves.

“The price of gasoline in the county is now at $3.36 a gallon,” commented Fritz Roehrig Thursday evening. “Two area stations are out of gas and one is near empty and there are waiting lines of 15 minutes. People have been traveling out of the county for gasoline because of the situation, which is growing worse. I cannot see using gasoline for a sport or to attend a sporting event now that there appears to be a shortage”

The Enduro scheduled at the speedway on September 18 is still on for now.


The 2nd Annual Big Diamond Raceway Enduro promoted by Jake Smulley
is still scheduled for and WILL take place on Sunday, September 18, at 2 PM.

The micro sprint doubleheader that was scheduled for Big Diamond Raceway on September 24
has been canceled due to the excessive number of other tracks running on the same day.


UNOFFICIAL FINAL BIG DIAMOND '05 POINTS

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points TOT. Feat. Wins
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS.
1 1 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 4045 4
2 2 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 3965 2
3 4 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 3675 2***
4 3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 3575 2
5 5 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 3475 0
6 6 1 / 6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 3360 2
7 7 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 3095 2
8 8 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 2960 0
9 9 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 2900 0
10 11 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 2875 1
11 10 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 2820 0
12 13 5 PAUL KLINE READING 2600 0
13 14 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 2585 2
14 12 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 2540 0
15 15 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON 2245 0
16 16 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 2235 0
17 18 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 2085 0
18 17 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 2020 0
19 20 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1955 0
20 19 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 1935 0
21 21 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 1460 0
22 23 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 1365 0
23 22 7x/37x TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 1360 0
23 23 79 AMANDA SPOTTS (rookie) PENNSBURG 1360 0
25 26 123/69 DAVE DISSINGER MOHRSVILLE 1265 0
25 26 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) NEW RINGGOLD 1265 0
27 25 178 NEIL HUBER (rookie) BETHEL 1200 0
28 28 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 1110 0
29 29 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 1050 0
30 30 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 1015 0
31 31 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 1005 0
32 32 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 990 0
33 33 71S SAM SCHAEFFER HAMBURG 675 0
34 34 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) LAURYS STATION 660 0
35 35 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ(rookie) CHALFONT 645 0
36 40 41C BRIAN CONRAD (rookie) READING 610 0
37 36 31 CHRIS ESPOSITO (rookie) GREEN LANE 550 0
38 37 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 510 0
38 37 13 BOB HALL (rookie) NESCOPECK 510 0
40 39 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 495 0
40 44 54/09 SMOKEY WARREN JONESTOWN 495 0
42 40 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 490 0
43 42 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 410 0
44 43 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON 395 0
45 50 6jr/14w RYAN WATT PERKIOMENVILLE 345 0
46 45 17 JASON SMYTHE 265 0
47 46 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG 255 0
48 47 99K DON KEEFER RICHLAND 250 0
49 48 145 GREG WEILAND (rookie) PORT CARBON 245 0
50 49 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 240 0
51 ---- 15X KEVIN HARTNETT PERKASIE 190 0
52 51 117 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 150 0
53 52 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 145 0
54 53 73 GLENN OWENS 135 0
55 79 114 DOUG HENDRICKS ORWIGSBURG 125 0
56 54 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER (rookie) RICHLAND 120 0
56 ---- 39 TODD SMITH 120 0
56 ----- 27M KEN ECKERT JR 120 0
59 55 9R BRIAN WEAVER WINDSOR, NY 0 0
60 56 2G MITCH GIBBS NORTH NORWICH, NY 0 0
61 57 53 MIKE GULAR HARLEYSVILLE 0 0
62 58 42H JIMMY HORTON, JR NESHANIC STATION,NJ 0 0
63 59 4B JR CROUSE NAZARETH 0 0
64 60 50 RYAN BARTLETT ADAMS, NY 0 0
65 61 93 BOBBY VARIN SHARON SPRINGS, NY 0 0
66 62 19K PAUL KINNEY ONEIDA, NY 0 0
67 63 19 KENNY BRIGHTBILL SINKING SPRING 0 0
68 64 97 JERRY HIBBIE, JR. SLATE HILL, NY 0 0
69 65 15X BILLY PAUCH JR FRENCHTOWN, NJ 0 0
70 66 51 MIKE COLSTEN BINGHAMPTON NY 0 0
71 67 357 BILLY PAUCH FRENCHTOWN, NJ 0 1***
72 68 44 FRANK COZZE WIND GAP 0 0
73 69 24 CHRIS SCHULTZ HOLMES, NY 0 0
74 70 42X ED STRADA SOUTH CANAAN 0 0
75 71 29 CHRIS OSTROWSKY CONKLIN, NY 0 0
76 72 88C TOM UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 0 0
77 73 9D BARRY DAVIS ACCORD, NY 0 0
78 74 8 RICH SCAGLIOTTA BOUND BROOK, NJ 0 0
79 75 119 BRIAN MALCOLM LAKE ARIEL 0 0
80 76 7JR JIMMY REPPERT, JR. HAMBURG 0 0
81 77 11D TRAVIS BALTHASER BERNVILLE 0 0
81 77 2 KENNY HATT READING 0 0
83 79 86 KYLE STRICKLER SINKING SPRING 0 0
*** includes 1 win in the non-point Big Block Modified RoC 75

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts TOT. Feat.
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. Wins
1 1 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 3030 0
2 2 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 2930 1
3 3 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 2900 2*
4 4 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 2875 1
5 5 145 GREG WEILAND PORT CARBON 2730 0
5 5 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 2730 3
7 7 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 2510 0
8 8 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 2475 0
9 9 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 2390 0
10 11 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 2390 0
11 10 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 2315 0
12 15 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 2255 0
13 13 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 2210 0
13 14 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 2210 0
15 12 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 2195 1
16 18 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 2130 2
17 15 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 2120 0
18 17 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 2085 0
18 19 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 2085 0
20 19 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 2060 0
21 21 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 1920 0
22 22 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1885 0
23 22 147/157 LOUIE MITCHALK SUMMIT HILL 1840 0
24 26 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 1785 1
25 24 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 1685 0
26 28 2 RICK STANKIEWICZ LAURELDALE 1675 0
27 25 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 1545 2
28 29 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 1500 0
29 30 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 1490 0
30 27 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 1485 0
31 31 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 1445 0
32 32 17T RYAN GRIM LAURYS STATION 1265 0
33 33 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 1225 0
34 37 2T MIKE TAYLOR (rookie) MILFORD, NJ 1035 1
35 36 13 JAMES NORRIS (rookie) 860 0
36 34 39B BARRY LIPPENCOTT(ro) UPPER BLACK EDDY 850 0
37 35 110 BILL FINNERAN 845 0
38 38 113 JEFF STERNER (rookie) BOWMANSTOWN 720 0
38 38 27M KEN ECKERT, JR. (rookie) MINERSVILLE 720 0
40 40 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 605 0
41 41 61 JOHN LEINDECKER (ro) ALLENTOWN 600 0
42 42 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG, PA 480 1
43 43 12V JOHN DEATRICH, JR PALO ALTO 370 0
44 44 22N RAY GARA (rookie) 360 0
45 45 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 285 0
46 46 1M MIKE LYONS MONROE TWP., NJ 280 0
47 47 712 KEVIN BEACH (rookie) LLEWELLYN 265 0
48 49 56 SHAWN HEISTAND 260 0
49 48 26X JOHN BUSH (rookie) FLEMINGTON, NJ 245 0
50 50 00 ADAM HUFF (rookie) ASBURY, NJ 125 0
51 57 98 TIM APGAR MILFORD, NJ 125 0
52 51 88 MIKE BENT (rookie) ALPHA, NJ 120 0
52 52 3H MARC HERMAN (rookie) WINDSOR NJ 120 0
52 ----- 74 PETE MARBURGER 120 0
55 53 22B ARNIE SLADE UPTON, NY 0 1*
56 54 16X DANNY CREEDEN MIDDLETOWN, NY 0 0
57 55 43H JIMMY HORTON, IV NESHANIC STATION, NJ 0 0
58 56 77J JEFF GEIGES LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ 0 0
59 58 9B/74 BRIAN DECKER SUSQUEHANNA 0 0
60 59 57 RICKY RUTT PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 0 0
61 60 21 SHAUN WALKER MASONVILLE, NY 0 0
62 61 71D FRANK DOTY MIDDLETOWN, NY 0 0
63 62 611 BRAD GRIM COPLAY 0 0
64 63 044 LOU FARINA PHILADELPHIA 0 0
65 64 17D MIKE LONEY TAYLOR 0 0
66 65 7A GENE STRAVINSKY NEW EGYPT, NJ 0 0
67 66 1Z JESSICA ZEMKEN SPRAKERS, NJ 0 0
69 67 76 BOBBY LILECK KING OF PRUSSIA 0 0
69 69 11 RICK YARD STOCKTON, NJ 0 0
70 69 19X BRENT BOYER BLOOMSBURG 0 0
71 70 17B E J HANNINGTON PITTSTOWN NJ 0 0
72 71 16 DAVID BUSH ACCORD, NY 0 0
72 71 9K MIKE KETCHAM OTISVILLE, NY 0 0
72 71 6 JOHN STANGLE NESHANIC STATION, NJ 0 0
72 71 8S RICH SCAGLIOTTA BOUND BROOK, NJ 0 0
72 71 8J WARREN FLOYD JR MILFORD NJ 0 0
72 71 Z28 BRIAN LILECK KING OF PRUSSIA 0 0
72 71 17M DERRICK MCGREW BALLSTON SPA NY 0 0
72 71 35X BEN DONARUMA FLEMINGTON NJ 0 0
72 71 42L MIKE LARTZ NICHOLSON 0 0
* - INCLUDES WIN IN 1 NON-POINT RoC 40-LAP FEATURE

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts TOT Feat
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS Wins
1 1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 4230 1
2 2 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 4195 4*
3 3 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 3995 4*
4 4 4,377 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 3765 2
5 5 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 3735 2
6 6 38,8S BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 3545 0
7 8 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 3450 0
8 9 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 3445 1
9 7 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 3430 0
10 10 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 3175 0
11 11 37 ERIC D. PINKERTON TOWER CITY 2890 0
12 12 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 2705 0
13 13 1 DAVE MILLER PINE GROVE 2675 2
14 14 712 JEREMY BECKER (rookie) FORESTVILLE 2465 0
15 15 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 1920 1
16 17 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 1805 1
17 16 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 1705 0
18 18 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 1505 1
19 19 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 1265 0
20 20 8 PETE GETTIS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1120 0
21 21 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 1080 0
22 22 00 TORY JENKINS SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 875 1
23 23 23 SHANE HECKENSWEILER 585 0
24 24 1T TIM HOBBS 550 0
25 25 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415 0
25 25 37 ERIC R. PINKERTON (rookie) TOWER CITY 415 0
27 27 377 FRAN PURCELL, JR. POTTSVILLE 340 0
28 28 1E CHARLIE ECKERT JR (rookie) 260 0
29 29 22X MIKE ALLAR ORWISBURG 210 0
30 30 377 BOB DILLNER MOORESVILLE, NC 155 0
31 31 Big1 JASON GENERELLI (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 140 0
32 32 5X DARL ELLIS BINGHAMPTON, NY 135 0
33 33 7 STEVE FESSLER 0 0
* - INCLUDES WIN IN 1 NON-POINT FEATURE

These are points for Big Diamond modified drivers for
Division I of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series only.
The highest driver in these point standings represents Big
Diamond in NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I Point
Race. The series points differ from track points and the top
point driver here may not be the track point leader!
THESE ARE NOT THE BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY TRACK POINT STANDINGS
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points
CAR DRIVER HOMETOWN Pts
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 1012
2 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 992
3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 922
4 11D, 79 DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 920
5 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 910
6 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 826
7 1, 6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 822
8 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 790
9 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 778
10 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 752


Coming Events:  Friday, Sept. 2, 8PM – The 3rd Annual Hoover Chevrolet/GM Performance Parts Sportsman 50 and Roadrunners plus Modified Coal Cracker 100 Practice.
Sunday, Sept. 4, 7:30PM –The 26th Annual Coal Cracker National Championship 100 and Roadrunner 20. Rain Date: Monday, Sept. 5, 6 PM.

Final Big Diamond/NASCAR Point Race Crowns D. Hoffman, Brennan, Beach
DESANTIS GETS 1ST MODIFIED WIN; TAYLOR TAKES 1ST CAREER SPORTSMAN 1ST;
(MIKE MILLER, BUCKWALTER TAKE ARDC TWIN 20s; HABLETT TOP ROADRUNNERS)


Minersville, PA – August 26, 2005 – Meme DeSantis of Temple, PA powered the Eastern Rigging #11 with a brand new Ford engine to his first Big Diamond Raceway win of the season in the final NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified point feature of the year.

Mike Taylor of Milford, NJ was equally impressive as he took his first career feature win in his Mueller Chevrolet 2T Sportsman Modified while the first appearance of midgets in over 30-years at Big Diamond saw Mike Miller of Birdsboro, PA, and Steve Buckwalter of Royersford, PA, each take a 20-lap wingless ARDC feature win. Tom Hablett of Schuylkill Haven, PA took his fourth overall Roadrunner win of the year.

Doug Hoffman of Allentown, PA repeated as the Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified point champion with the Dennis Eisenhard/Klinger Motorsports 77 team while Tom Brennan of Pottsville, PA, did the same in the Sportsman Modifieds with his GMI First Mechanical 26. Kevin Beach of Llewellyn, PA, took his first Roadrunner point championship with his own Uncle Cones #17 team.

Meme DeSantis started fifth in the Modified 25-lap main event and looked like he would end up second as best as Sean Merkel (Gilbertsville) paced the field for the first 15 laps. DeSantis got by Merkel on lap 16 and then held off the hard charging Craig Von Dohren (Barto) to take his first win of the year. Von Dohren returned with the Devine Transport 70d to take second at the finish trailed by Jeff Strunk (Bethel), Duane Howard (Oley), Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing), Paul Kline (Reading), Doug Hoffman (Allentown), Jeff Sechrist (Wernersville), Kevin Hartnett (Perkasie), and Ryan Watt (Phoenixville).

In the first midget feature at Big Diamond Raceway since 1973, Mike Miller over took Carey Becker (Reading) on lap two and never looked back to take his first non-winged ARDC Midget feature win of the year. Although Miller led 19 of 20 laps the racing through the field was incredible with the stars going three and four wide at times. Billy Pauch, Jr. (Frenchtown, NJ) came from 20th starting spot to finish right on Miller’s tail while Ray Bull (Bloomsburg), Ed Stimely, Jr. (McVeytown), and Hank Rogers, Jr. (Scot Run) completed the top five. Andy Martin (Gordonville) rolled his #7 over on lap 6 but came back and charged through the field to finish sixth followed by Steve Lenig (Selinsgrove), Michelle Miller (Temple), Eric Heydenreich (Bloomsburg) and modified regular Ryan Watt.

The second ARDC wingless 20 saw Steve Buckwalter charged from 13th starting spot to overtake Andy Martin, who led the first nine laps, to take the win over Martin, Ed Stimely, Jr., Billy Pauch, Jr. (who started 18th), Ray Bull, Mike Miller, Hank Rogers, Jr., Steve Lenig, Ryan Watt (who recorded three top tens in two divisions on the night), and Dave Shirk (Mohnton).

Since becoming a Big Diamond regular about a month ago, Mike Taylor has shown moments of greatness as he learned the speedway. This evening, Mike started on the pole and was pressured by fellow Milford, NJ driver Ebby Ridge early and then fellow rookie Joe Masiado (Easton) from lap three to the finish. Taylor took career win #1 over Masiado, closing 14th place starter Brad Brightbill (Shillington), Ridge, Ryan Moyer (Schuylkill Haven), Tom Brennan, Rich Stankiewicz (Laureldale), Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg), Billy Moyer, Jr. (Pine Grove) and Brad Force (Sellersville).

Heat winners were Duane Howard, Sean Merkel and Meme DeSantis in the Modifieds and Mike Taylor, Rich Stankiewicz, and Luke Wagner (Grantville) in the Sportsman Modifieds Consolations were won by Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville) in the Modifieds and Tim Apgar (Milford, NJ) in the Sportsman.

The 3rd Annual Hoover Chevrolet/GM Performance Parts Sportsman 50 on Friday, September 2. A first prize of $2,000 awaits the winner in the event sponsored by Hoover Chevrolet located in Werrnersville, PA at 50 East Penn Avenue (Route 422) just west of Reading and an authorized local GM Performance Parts dealer

The Hoover Chevrolet Sportsman 50 kicks off a big weekend of speed at Big Diamond as the Coal Cracker Modified Championship 100 will be run of the eve of Labor Day, Sunday, September 4. The roadrunners will be in action on both nights with the Sunday event culminating with the Roadrunner Coal Cracker 20. The 26th annual edition of the Coal Cracker 100 will be run on Sunday evening, September 4, at 7:30 PM with Labor Day Monday set at the rain date with a 6PM start. $10,000 will await the feature winner with all CC starters earning a minimum of $325.

Entries are required for both the Hoover Sportsman Modified 50 and the Coal Cracker 100. In the Sportsman 50 carries a $25 entry fee. For the Coal Cracker 100 NASCAR licensed drivers will get a discounted rate of $40 per car while non-members will pay the full $50 entry fee per car. The entry fee does not include a pit pass.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway, go to www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY, Minersville, PA - RACE RESULTS – Aug. 26, 2005
NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIEDS
25-LAP FEATURE, $2000 TO WIN - 1. 11 Meme DeSantis, Temple, PA; 2. 70D Craig Von Dohren, Barto, PA; 3. 88 Jeff Strunk, Bethel, PA; 4. 357 Duane Howard, Oley, PA; 5. 11D Doug Manmiller, Wyomissing, PA; 6. 5 Paul Kline, Reading, PA; 7. 77 Doug Hoffman, Allentown, PA; 8. 42 Jeff Sechrist, Wernersville, PA; 9. 15 Kevin Hartnett, Perkasie, PA; 10. 6JR Ryan Watt, Phoenixville, PA; 11. 64W John Willman; 12. W9 Colt Harris; 13. 87 Andy Burkhart; 14. 72 Jeff Ebersole; 15. 79 Amanda Spotts; 16. 24H Justin Andrews; 17. 118 Sean Merkel; 18. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick; 19. 14 Rick Laubach; 20. 29 Ray Swinehart; 21. 808 Dennis Horvath; 22. 1 Keith Hoffman; 23. Sq1 Bobby Gunther Walsh; 24. 69 Dave Dissinger; 25. 114 Doug Hendricks.
Non-Qualifiers: 41C Brian Conrad; 09 Smokey Warren; 27M Ken Eckert, Jr.; 39 Todd Smith; 7X Tommy Sheetz, Jr.
LAP LEADERS: 118 Merkel (1-15); 11 DeSantis (16-25).

Heat 1: 357, 64w, 11D, 102, 6JR, SQ1, 41C, 39, 7X.
Heat 2: 118, 42, 77, 88, 14, 87, 114, 72, 27M, 808.
Heat 3: 11, 5, 70D, 1, 15, 69, W9, 24H, 79, 09, 29.
Consi: 29, 114, 24H, 72, 808, W9, 79, 41c, 09, 27M, 39, 7x.

ARDC WINGLESS MIDGETS
1ST 20-LAP FEATURE - 1. 1 Mike Miller, Birdsboro, PA; 2. 49 Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown, NJ; 3. 22 Ray Bull, Bloomsburg, PA; 4. 6 Ed Stimely, Jr., McVeytown, PA; 5. 25 Hank Rogers, Jr., Scot Run, PA; 6. 7 Andy Martin; 7. 9L Steve Lenig; 8. 4 Michelle Miller; 9. 84 Eric Heydenreich; 10. 75 Ryan Watt; 11. 20 Carey Becker; 12. 99 Scott Zipp; 13. 55 Steve Craig; 14. 33 Lew Blair; 15. 72 Kathy Kurtz; 16. 00 Mike Dicely; 17. 5 Steve Buckwalter; 18. 18 Don Trent, 19. 3 Tracy Miller; 20. 2 Dave Shirk; 21. 38G Bobby Goerner; 22. 48 Bill Case, Jr. Lap Leaders: 20 Carey Becker, Reading (1), 1 Mike Miller (2-20).

2ND 20-LAP FEATURE - 1. 5 Steve Buckwalter, Royersford, PA; 2. 7 Andy Martin, Gordonville, PA; 3. 6 Ed Stimely, Jr., McVeytown, PA; 4. 49 Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown, NJ; 5. 22 Ray Bull, Bloomsburg, PA; 6. 1 Mike Miller; 7. 25 Hank Rogers, Jr.; 8. 9L Steve Lenig; 9. 75 Ryan Watt; 10. 2 Dave Shirk; 11. 20 Carey Becker; 12. 84 Eric Heydenreich; 13. 00 Mike Dicely; 14. 99 Scott Zipp; 15. 33 Lew Blair; 16. 72 Kathy Kurtz; 17. 38G Bobby Goerner; 18. 3 Tracy Miller; 19. 4 Michelle Miller; 20. 48 Bill Case, Jr.; 21. 18 Don Trent; 22. 55 Steve Craig. Lap Leaders: 7 Andy Martin (1-9), 5 Steve Buckwalter (10-20).

NASCAR SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS
20-LAP FEATURE, $600 TO WIN - 1. 2T Mike Taylor, Milford, NJ; 2. 43 Joe Masiado, Easton, PA; 3. 19 Brad Brightbill, Shillington, PA; 4. 35 Ebby Ridge, Milford, NJ; 5. 93 Ryan Moyer, Schuylkill Haven, PA; 6. 26 Tom Brennan, Pottsville, PA; 7. 2 Rich Stankiewicz, Laureldale, PA; 8. 99 Craig Whitmoyer, Hamburg, PA; 9. 17 Billy Moyer, Jr., Pine Grove, PA; 10. 8 Brad Force, Sellersville, PA; 11. 3 Luke Wagner; 12. 64 Andy Miller; 13. 917 Jarrad Miller; 14. 72 Ray Woodall, Jr.; 15. 144 Don Miller; 16. 17R Kevin Nolf; 17. 221 Rob Gibson; 18. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer; 19. 10 Lowell Snyder; 20. 47 Gary Wagner, Jr.; 21. KT3 Ken Renninger; 22. 8Jr Doug Hendricks; 23. 98 Tim Apgar; 24. 145 Greg Weiland; 25. 95 Freddie Fisher. Non-Qualifiers: 56 Shawn Heistand; 74 Pete Marburger; 73 Darrel Herman; 13 James Norris; 59 Jason Kohler; 71 Chris James; 157 Louie Mitchalk; 25 Ray Deemer; 515 Larry Lippencott. Feature Lap Leaders: Taylor led 1 – 20.

Heat 1: 2T, 93, KT3, 47, 35, 917, 98, 17, 145, 59, 73, 157.
Heat 2: 2, 19, 64, 26, 8Jr, 10, 13, 72, 95, 221, 56.
Heat 3: 3, 43, 8, 99, 19, 144, 17R, 25, 74, 71, 515.
Consi: 98, 17, 17R, 72, 145, 221, 95, 56, 74, 73, 13, 59, 71, 157, 25, 515.

NASCAR ROADRUNNERS
15-LAP FEATURE - $100 TO WIN - 1. 22 Tom Hablett, Schuylkill Haven, PA; 2. 555 Elvin Brennan, Forestville, PA; 3. 66 Kevin Holland, Pine Grove, PA; 4. 37 Eric Pinkerton, Tower City, PA; 5. 1 Dave Miller, Pine Grove, PA; 6. 17 Kevin Beach; 7. 5 Dave Schultz; 8. 8s Butch Solt; 9. 550 Ryan Olenick; 10. 11X Joey Hendricks; 11. 721 Jason Sherman; 12. 4 Jake Smulley; 13. 20 Corey Sechrist; 14. 712 Jeremy Becker; 15. 7T7 Andy Fayash, III. Lap Leaders: 37 Eric Pinkerton (1-10); 22 Tom Hablett (11-15).


Coal Cracker Modified 100 Set to Go Sun., Sept. 4 at Big Diamond
FRANNY’S HILLTOP SERVICE CENTER ADDS BONUS TO COAL CRACKER 100


Minersville, PA – August 25, 2005 - As the 2005 racing season rapidly approaches its end, the Coal Cracker 100 looms large on the horizon for the Modified competitors at Big Diamond Raceway.

The 26th annual edition of the Coal Cracker 100 will be run on the eve of Labor Day, Sunday evening, September 4, at 7:30 PM. Labor Day will be used as a 6PM rain date for the 100 which will again pay $10,000 to the feature winner while all starters in the event will earn a minimum of $325.

A strong local supporter of racing at Big Diamond who will be adding to the Coal Cracker payout is Fran Purcell, Jr. and his Hilltop Service Center in Primrose just outside of Minersville, PA. Franny has guaranteed $500 toward the Franny’s Hilltop Service Center Halfway Challenge for the Coal Cracker. $500 will be divided among the top three at the midway point of the Coal Cracker Nationals. Purcell has indicated he is actually considering doubling his sponsorship to $1000 which could be divided among the top five at half way.

This is the second year for the Franny’s Hilltop Halfway Challenge. The service center is located just west of Minersville on Rt. 901 just outside of both Forestville and Primrose on the way to the track from Minersville.

Entries are required for the Coal Cracker 100 with NASCAR licensed drivers getting a discounted rate of $40 per car while non-members will pay the full $50 entry fee per car. The entry fee does not include a pit pass.

There are no guaranteed starters for the 100 with all drivers having an equal opportunity to qualify for the annual big event. Qualifying heat starting spots will be determined by the luck of the draw.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway, go to www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434.


Coal Cracker Weekend Starts on Friday
HOOVER CHEVROLET/GM PERFORMANCE SPORTSMAN 50 ON SEPT. 2
MOYER, WHITMOYER, HENDRICKS, WEISS & BRIGHTBILL GUARANTEED


Minersville, PA – August 25, 2005 - With the season-long Big Diamond Raceway NASCAR point race over the focus will be clear come the first weekend of September for most Sportsman Modified drivers,… the $2,000 first prize in the 3rd Annual Hoover Chevrolet/GM Performance Parts Sportsman 50 on Friday, September 2.

The Hoover Chevrolet Sportsman 50 kicks off a big weekend of speed at Big Diamond as the Coal Cracker Modified Championship 100 will be run of the eve of Labor Day, Sunday, September 4. The roadrunners will be in action on both nights with the Sunday event culminating with the Roadrunner Coal Cracker 20.

Hoover Chevrolet is located in the heart of Werrnersville, PA at 50 East Penn Avenue which is also Route 422 just west of Reading suburb, Sinking Spring. They are your authorized local GM Performance Parts dealer.

Five drivers will be able to feel a bit less pressure to qualify for the Sportsman 50 as Doug Hendricks (Orwigsburg), Billy Moyer, Jr. (Pine Grove), Kyle Weiss (Hamburg), Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg) and Brad Brightbill (Shillington) have earned the status of guaranteed starters and they will be added to the starting field if the do not qualify through the normal qualifying heat and consi procedure. Race of Champions Sportsman standout, Arnie Slade has also earned guaranteed status but, although the big Hoover 50 purse is tempting, he will likely need to compete at his home track due to his potential to win the track’s point championship.

Past winners of the Sportsman 50 are David Van Horn (Harmony, NJ) and Jason Hamilton (Erwinna).

Dave Van Horn piloted his #71 Sportsman to the $2000 win in 2002 over Craig Whitmoyer, Brian Godown (Frenchtown, NJ), Willy Osmun (Bridgewater, NJ), Tom Brennan (Pottsville), Donn Edgar (Lehighton), Bill Moyer, Jr., Rich Scagliotta (Bound Brook, NJ), Tom Umbenhauer (Richland) and Matt Papiez (Belle Mead, NJ).

Hamilton’s $2000 win came last season over Kyle Weiss, Tom Brennan, Gene Stravinsky (New Egypt, NJ), Dave Dissinger (Mohrsville), Billy Moyer, Jr. (Pine Grove), Keith Fleming (Milford, NJ), Ryan Moyer (Schuylkill Haven), Tom Miller (Gilbertsville) and Brad Force (Milford, NJ).

The “open” sportsman modified rules for this event basically mean the event is event is open to sportsman cars from other speedways as no NASCAR or other membership is required for drivers. Drivers from any division may drive as long as their cars are legal and they are of age. The teams must adhere to all Big Diamond Sportsman Modified engine rules. The need to run 4412 Holleys on their 358 engines with flat tappets. Cars utilizing Vortek heads will be limited to 9:1 compression ratio while those with Bowties may be up to 12:1. No touch ports and no Dart heads are permitted. Teams will be able to run the track tires from their home speedway but no drag rubber is permitted and no aluminum wheels are allowed. No wings, sail panels or unsafe wheel covers may be run. Cars will be required to weigh 2450 pounds after the event.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway, go to the speedway website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434.


26th Annual Coalcracker 100 Set At Big Diamond For Sun., Sept. 4
D.HOFFMAN, HOWARD, STRUNK LOOK TO BE 1ST 4-TIME COALCRACKER KING


Minersville, PA – Aug. 26, 2005 – The 26th Annual Coal Cracker Modified Championships at Big Diamond Raceway could see a driver become the first four-time winner of the prestigious event which will be held Sunday evening, September 4, at 7:30 PM.

Current Big Diamond competitors Doug Hoffman (Allentown), Duane Howard (Oley) and Jeff Strunk (Bethel) have won the Coal Cracker Championships three times each as well as the retired Charlie Eckert (Auburn). And all three have recorded feature wins at Big Diamond this season and Hoffman ws the Coal Cracker 100 winner last year.

Will one of these go one up on everyone as the first four-time winner? Will one of the pair of current two-time winners, Kenny Brightbill (Sinking Spring) or Billy Pauch (Frenchtown, NJ), who have not been in action at Big Diamond on a regular basis in ’05, invade to win to join the elite group of triple winners?

Bob Emerich (Hamburg), Paul Koch (Schnecksville) and Billy Schinkel, Jr. (Llewellyn) are single Coal Cracker winners that are now retired from racing but other active winners of the CC include Big Diamond modified graduate and sprint car superstar Fred Rahmer (Salfordville) and USAC driver Richie Tobias (Annville) along with current Modified drivers Craig Von Dohren (Barto), Rick Schaffer (Woxall), Tom Mayberry (Sellersville), and Keith Hoffman (Whitehall).

The 26th annual edition of the Coal Cracker 100 will be run on Sunday evening, September 4, at 7:30 PM with Labor Day Monday set at the rain date with a 6PM start. $10,000 will await the feature winner with all CC starters earning a minimum of $325.

Entries are required for the Coal Cracker 100 with NASCAR licensed drivers getting a discounted rate of $40 per car while non-members will pay the full $50 entry fee per car. The entry fee does not include a pit pass.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway, go to www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434.


JEFF GROMIS ADRESSES THE BIG DIAMOND RUMORS....

Just a heads up on what is happening at Diamond as I am hearing we are big on the rumor mill.

The bottom line in nothing is happening. We have not had a great year and there are few tracks that have. Are we doing better or worse than some, most or many? I really do not know.

When gas prices or other economic issues make things difficult at the gate, you need to take a look at what you are going and make sure you are on track. Looking at things does not necessarily mean change.

Sure we'd like to be able to lower the ticket prices but will the loss per person be balanced or exceeded by more people. Who knows?

Do you look at purses you pay and reduce them? If so, you might lose more than you gain by fewer cars.

Do you change divisions? That's fairly drastic! What would you bring in and would you be better or worse?

Sometimes you need to think "outside of the box." You need to look for new ideas.

Some of the ideas thrown around your site might not be too far fetched. But to go so far as to say that they are things that have decided or even discussed at any length is going too far.

There are NO plans at this point to do anything at this point. But as you see there are many things that could be considered. Some are obviously very unlikely. We will be discussions, as happens every year, in the weeks following the end of the season,... both in house with our people on our divisions and likely with Grandview about the modifieds.

I would guess most of the discussion will focus on rules. Maybe discussions will be on engine rules for our Modifieds and how we can get back into a position where we are more comfortable with the cost and availability of fairly equal equipment for all. Maybe other issues like Sportsman 9:1 engines. Maybe tires. Or maybe none of these and some other technical issue that someone has found to get an advantage by bending the rules.

Will there be major changes?... minor changes?... any changes? I do not know. I suspect there will be changes, mostly slight. Nothing like many of the rumors are saying.

But I can say I do not feel the Super Sportsman or the 358 Sprint are not in Big Diamond's future on a weekly or even semi-regular basis. (But I will say we thought about doing something with the 358 Sprints on a more regular basis 2-1/2 years ago. Must be an old rumor.)

I have been getting questions since June about Big Diamond closing. Big Diamond being sold. The recent decision to allow Andy Harpell to sponsor the RoC event at Big Diamond got these things rolling again.

Today with all the opportunities with the Internet, as soon as I personally enter, or anyone else involved with our track, enters into a discussion (or a bull session) with someone or answers a question about what they think will happen, the rumor mill rolls. And if you share an option that is slightly less 'out there' than their proposal to show the magnitude of what they are sharing, that becomes option two in the rumor mill. Before you know it you go from a question about the track closing, to it being sold, to purses being cut. to possible division changes, and so on and so on.....

We at Big Diamond are focusing on the Hoover Chevrolet Sportsman 50 and the Coal Cracker 100 right now. We have not and will not be discussion things related to 2006 until later in September as we always do.

I have spoken to Fritz Roehrig and I know we will be tossing ideas around in September and October, but don't be upset if changes for '06, if any, are not shocking headliners. Then again, today, i know no more than the next person until we sit down and talk about things.

- Jeff Gromis


BIG DIAMOND CHARITY GOLF TOURNEY SUNDAY AT BEAUTIFUL MTN. VALLEY;
FOURSOMES MAY STILL SIGN UP, INDIVIDUALS WILL BE MATCHED WITH TEAM


Minersville, PA – August 21 - The annual Big Diamond Raceway Coal Cracker Charity Golf Outing, benefiting the Georgie Stevenson Memorial Fund and the Smulley Foundation, is set for this Sunday afternoon, August 28, at 1 o’clock. And golfers are still welcome to sign-up and participate.

“We like to see the foursomes sign up early to insure we have tournament shirts available for all participants in the correct sizes,” commented Big Diamond’s JoAnn Roehrig. “But we have gone ahead and ordered the shirts already. If we do not have the right sizes for everyone, we’ll just go back, order more and get them to those that need them later.

“Now, it is important to get the final foursomes signed up early this week, so we can be sure to have the proper amount of food.”

The Big Diamond Coal Cracker Tournament is held at the beautiful Mountain Valley Golf Course, minutes from Pottsville and Frackville in Barnesville, Pennsylvania. It is a shotgun start, four-person scramble enabling golfers of all skill levels to participate and have a good time. Included with the $70 per person entry fee in addition to the 18-holes of golfing are a western barbeque following golf; door prizes; two competitive flights; drinks before, after and during the tournament; and a golf shirt.

But the biggest prize is the good feeling for all participants for the funds the outing generates for two very important children’s charities, the Georgie Stevenson Memorial and the Smulley Foundation.

Any foursomes or individuals interested in participating should call JoAnn as soon as possible at (570) 544-6434. Individual names will be collected and foursomes will be put together for those who still wish to participate but do not have a group.


Coming Events:
Friday, Aug.26, 8PM - NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, ARDC Non-winged Midget Twin-20’s, NASCAR Sportsman Modifieds & NASCAR Roadrunners. FINAL NASCAR DWS BIG DIAMOND ’05 POINT RACE.
[Junior Fan Club Members Admitted FREE with Big Diamond Junior. Fan Club I.D. Cards]
Friday, Sept. 2, 8PM – The 3rd Annual Hoover Chevrolet/GM Performance Parts Sportsman 50 and Roadrunners plus Modified Coal Cracker 100 Practice.
Sunday, Sept. 4, 7:30PM –The 26th Annual Coal Cracker National Championship 100 and Roadrunner 20. Rain Date: Monday, Sept. 5, 6PM.


FRIDAY IS FINAL’05 NASCAR BIG DIAMOND POINT RACE
RAIN STOPS BIG DIAMOND ACTION, ARDC MIDGETS RESET FOR FRIDAY, AUG. 26
($2000-TO-WIN HOOVER CHEVROLET/GM PERFORMANCE SPORTSMAN 50 COMING SEPT. 2)


Minersville, PA – August 19 – Rain from Thursday evening and Friday forced Big Diamond Raceway to postpone their racing card on Friday night. In addition to the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners, the ARDC Midgets were also on the rained-out event which will now be run in its entirety on August 26.

Next Friday, August 26, all three weekly NASCAR divisions will finalize the season long point races in the final track and NASCAR point events of the year. The NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman-Modifieds, and Roadrunners are joined by the ARDC Midgets. The midgets will compete without wings in twin 20-lap features. There will be no qualifying races for the midgets, just flat-out, broad sliding mayhem in the twin 20's in their first appearance at Big Diamond in over 30 years.

The August 26th event will also be a special Junior Fan Club Free Night as all Big Diamond Junior Fan Club Members will be admitted for free with the presentation of their card at the ticket window. The first 30 Junior Fan Club Members to arrive will also be given special Dodge Racing posters.

In the Modifieds it will be a final race showdown between defending champion Doug Hoffman of Whitehall, PA and Duane Howard of Oley, PA. Hoffman holds a 120 point lead over Howard. Assuming both drivers do compete this Friday, the most points Howard can gain on Hoffman is 180 assuming Hoffman does not qualify and Howard wins the feature.

The same potential maximum point gains hold true for the Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners. In the Sportsman, defending champion Tom Brennan of Pottsville, PA is the point leader but Gary Wagner, JR. of Womelsdorf, PA (-5) and Craig Whitmoyer of Hamburg, PA (-110) fall within the 180 point margin. Kevin Beach of Llewellyn, PA holds an 80 point lead over his only potential threat, Kevin Holland of Pine Grove, PA.

With the season-long Big Diamond Raceway NASCAR point race over next week, the focus will be clear come the first weekend of September for most Sportsman Modified drivers… the $2,000 first prize in the 3rd Annual Hoover Chevrolet/GM Performance Parts Sportsman 50 on Friday, Sept. 2.

The Hoover Chevrolet Sportsman 50 kicks off a big weekend of speed at Big Diamond as the Coal Cracker Modified Championship 100 will be run of the eve of Labor Day, Sunday, September 4. The roadrunners will be in action on both nights with the Sunday event culminating with the Roadrunner Coal Cracker 20.

Five drivers will be able to feel a bit less pressure to qualify for the Sportsman 50 as Doug Hendricks, Billy Moyer, Jr., Kyle Weiss, Craig Whitmoyer and Brad Brightbill have earned the status of guaranteed starters and they will be added to the starting field if the do not qualify through the normal qualifying heat and consi procedure. Race of Champions Sportsman standout, Arnie Slade has also earned guaranteed status but, although the big Hoover 50 purse is tempting, he will likely need to compete at his home track due to his potential to win the track’s point championship.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway, contact JoAnn at the track office at (570) 544-6434. Information on Big Diamond Raceway can also be found at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


Coming Events:
Friday, Aug.19, 8PM - NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, ARDC Non-winged Midget Twin-20’s, NASCAR Sportsman Modifieds, & NASCAR Roadrunners. [Junior Fan Club Members Admitted FREE with Big Diamond Junior. Fan Club I.D. Cards]
Friday, Aug. 26, 8PM - NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, and Roadrunners.
FINAL NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES BIG DIAMOND ‘05 POINT RACE.
Friday, Sept. 2, 8PM – The 3rd Annual Hoover Chevrolet/GM Performance Parts Sportsman 50 and Roadrunners plus Modified Coal Cracker 100 Practice.
Sunday, Sept. 4, 7:30PM –The 26th Annual Coal Cracker National Championship 100 and Roadrunner 20. Rain Date: Monday, Sept. 5, 6PM.


DESANTIS, RYAN MOYER, HOLLAND LEAD BAIR WHEEL REPAIR HEAT WIN CHALLENGE

Minersville, PA – August 16, 2005 – With just three weeks remaining, Meme DeSantis of Temple, PA; Ryan Moyer of Schuylkill Haven, PA; and Kevin Holland of Pine Grove, PA lead their respective Big Diamond Raceway divisions in the 2005 Art Bair Racing Wheels and Wheel Repair Heat Win Challenge.

Art Bair of New Ringgold, PA has once again sponsored the Art Bair Racing Wheels and Wheel Repair heat win challenge for all three weekly divisions at the Big Diamond Raceway in 2005. The driver who captures the most modified heat wins during the year will be rewarded with $250. The leading sportsman modified heat winner will receive a bead lock wheel and the top heat winning roadrunner will earn a racing wheel.

Meme DeSantis has six modified heat wins and holds a slim margin over Duane Howard (Oley, PA) with and John Willman (Birdsboro, PA) and Bobby Gunther Walsh (Allentown, PA) with four each. Three time 2005 heat winners include Keith Hoffman (Whitehall, PA), Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing, PA), Jeff Strunk (Bethel, PA) and Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville, PA) while Josh Biever (Landingville, PA), Sean Merkel (Gilbertsville, PA) and Craig Von Dohren (Oley, PA) have two each.

Ironically, point leader Doug Hoffman (Allentown, PA) has not won a heat this season. Completing the list with single heat wins are Andy Burkhart (Temple, PA), Dale Hartz (Hamburg, PA), Dale Roth (Newmanstown, PA), Rick Schaffer (Woxall, PA) and Jeff Sechrist (Wernersville, PA).

Leading the list in the Sportsman division is Ryan Moyer with seven heat victories. Jason Hamilton (Erwinna, PA) is second with five wins while Rob Gibson (Schuylkill Haven, PA) and Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg, PA) have 3 each. Double heat winners are Andy Fayash, Jr. (Mary D, PA), Doug Hendricks (Auburn, PA), Joe Masiado (Easton, PA), Andy Miller (Schuylkill Haven, PA), RoC invader Arnie Slade (Upton, NY) and Jordan Umbenhauer (Richland, PA).

Sportsman point leaders Tom Brennan (Pottsville, PA) and Gary Wagner, Jr. (Womelsdorf, PA) are included in the list of 17 other drivers that have one heat win this year.

Kevin Holland (Pine Grove, PA) leads in the roadrunners with six wins trailed by Joe Hendricks (Auburn, PA) with four, Kirby Schlappich (Temple, PA) with four, Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven, PA) with two, Butch Solt (Lehighton, PA) with two and Eric Pinkerton (Tower City, PA) with 2. Single heat wins have been recorded by Elvin Brennan (Forestville, PA), Pete Gettis (Schuylkill Haven, PA), Dave Schultz (Forestville, PA), Corey Sechrist (Wernersville, PA), Jason Sherman (Williamstown, PA) and Jake Smulley (Phoenix Park, PA) while point leader Kevin Beach (Llewellyn, PA) has no heat wins.

(The roadrunner heat winner from the recent RoC race has not yet been added to these totals.)

In addition to the annual Art Bair Racing Wheel Heat Win Challenge, Art also sponsors the tire changing competition at the annual Big Diamond Raceway Pre-Season Car Show. Art has been a sponsor at Big Diamond nearly as long as his racing wheel repair business has been in existence. He’s at Big Diamond every race night and is available to pick-up wheels to be repaired and to deliver new or repaired wheels.

Next Friday, August 19, all three divisions will have the opportunity to add to their totals as the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman-Modifieds, and Roadrunners are joined by the ARDC Midgets. The midgets will compete without wings in twin 20-lap features. There will be no qualifying races for the midgets, just flat-out, broad sliding mayhem in the twin 20's in their first appearance at Big Diamond in over 30 years.

The August 19th event will also be a special Junior Fan Club Free Night as all Big Diamond Junior Fan Club Members will be admitted for free with the presentation of their card at the ticket window.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway, contact JoAnn at the track office at (570) 544-6434. Information on Big Diamond Raceway can also be found at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


BIG DIAMOND POINTS

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points TOT. Feat. Wins
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS.
1 1 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 3835 4
2 2 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 3715 2
3 3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 3450 2
4 4 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 3410 2***
5 6 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 3240 0
6 5 1 / 6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 3235 2
7 7 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 2965 2
8 8 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 2825 0
9 10 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 2700 0
10 9 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 2650 0
11 11 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 2575 0
12 14 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 2400 0
13 13 5 PAUL KLINE READING 2380 0
14 12 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 2305 2
15 18 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON 2080 0
16 16 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 2075 0
17 15 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 2020 0
18 19 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 1960 0
19 17 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 1935 0
20 20 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1810 0
21 21 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 1460 0
22 24 7x/37x TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 1240 0
23 22 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 1210 0
23 26 79 AMANDA SPOTTS (rookie) PENNSBURG 1210 0
25 23 178 NEIL HUBER (rookie) BETHEL 1200 0
26 28 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) NEW RINGGOLD 1140 0
26 31 123/69 DAVE DISSINGER MOHRSVILLE 1140 0
28 25 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 1110 0
29 27 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 1050 0
30 32 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 1015 0
31 29 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 1005 0
32 30 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 990 0
33 33 71S SAM SCHAEFFER HAMBURG 675 0
34 34 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) LAURYS STATION 660 0
35 35 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ(rookie) CHALFONT 645 0
36 40 31 CHRIS ESPOSITO (rookie) GREEN LANE 550 0
37 36 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 510 0
37 42 13 BOB HALL (rookie) NESCOPECK 510 0
39 37 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 495 0
40 38 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 490 0
40 43 41C BRIAN CONRAD (rookie) READING 490 0
42 39 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 410 0
43 41 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON 395 0
44 46 54 SMOKEY WARREN JONESTOWN 375 0
45 44 17 JASON SMYTHE 265 0
46 45 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG 255 0
47 46 99K DON KEEFER RICHLAND 250 0
48 48 145 GREG WEILAND (rookie) PORT CARBON 245 0
49 49 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 240 0
50 50 6jr/14w RYAN WATT PERKIOMENVILLE 165 0
51 51 117 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 150 0
52 52 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 145 0
53 73 GLENN OWENS 135 0
54 53 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER (rookie) RICHLAND 120 0
55 54 9R BRIAN WEAVER WINDSOR, NY 0 0
56 55 2G MITCH GIBBS NORTH NORWICH, NY 0 0
57 57 53 MIKE GULAR HARLEYSVILLE 0 0
58 64 42H JIMMY HORTON, JR NESHANIC STATION,NJ 0 0
59 56 4B JR CROUSE NAZARETH 0 0
60 63 50 RYAN BARTLETT ADAMS, NY 0 0
61 68 93 BOBBY VARIN SHARON SPRINGS, NY 0 0
62 59 19K PAUL KINNEY ONEIDA, NY 0 0
63 58 19 KENNY BRIGHTBILL SINKING SPRING 0 0
64 69 97 JERRY HIBBIE, JR. SLATE HILL, NY 0 0
65 67 15X BILLY PAUCH JR FRENCHTOWN, NJ 0 0
66 70 51 MIKE COLSTEN BINGHAMPTON NY 0 0
67 --- 357 BILLY PAUCH FRENCHTOWN, NJ 0 1***
68 --- 44 FRANK COZZE WIND GAP 0 0
69 --- 24 CHRIS SCHULTZ HOLMES, NY 0 0
70 --- 42X ED STRADA SOUTH CANAAN 0 0
71 --- 29 CHRIS OSTROWSKY CONKLIN, NY 0 0
72 --- 88C TOM UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 0 0
73 65 9D BARRY DAVIS ACCORD, NY 0 0
74 66 8 RICH SCAGLIOTTA BOUND BROOK, NJ 0 0
75 --- 119 BRIAN MALCOLM LAKE ARIEL 0 0
76 --- 7JR JIMMY REPPERT, JR. HAMBURG 0 0
77 70 11D TRAVIS BALTHASER BERNVILLE 0 0
77 70 2 KENNY HATT READING 0 0
79 --- 86 KYLE STRICKLER SINKING SPRING 0 0
79 --- 114 DOUG HENDRICKS ORWIGSBURG 0 0
*** includes 1 win in the non-point Big Block Modified RoC 75

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts TOT. Feat.
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. Wins
1 2 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 2810 0
2 1 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 2805 1
3 2 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 2700 2*
4 5 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 2610 1
5 4 145 GREG WEILAND PORT CARBON 2605 0
5 6 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 2605 3
7 8 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 2330 0
8 7 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 2320 0
9 9 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 2270 0
10 10 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 2180 0
11 12 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 2155 0
12 13 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 2055 1
13 14 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 2050 0
14 16 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 2040 0
15 11 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 1975 0
15 18 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 1975 0
17 15 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 1960 0
18 17 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 1940 2
19 19 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 1935 0
19 20 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 1935 0
21 22 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 1790 0
22 21 147 LOUIE MITCHALK SUMMIT HILL 1720 0
22 27 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1720 0
24 23 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 1565 0
25 24 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 1545 2
26 25 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 1535 1
27 26 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 1485 0
28 29 2 RICK STANKIEWICZ LAURELDALE 1465 0
29 28 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 1380 0
30 30 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 1370 0
31 31 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 1325 0
32 33 17T RYAN GRIM LAURYS STATION 1265 0
33 32 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 1225 0
34 35 39B BARRY LIPPENCOTT(ro) UPPER BLACK EDDY 850 0
35 34 110 BILL FINNERAN 845 0
36 39 13 JAMES NORRIS (rookie) 740 0
37 38 2T MIKE TAYLOR (rookie) MILFORD, NJ 735 0
38 36 113 JEFF STERNER (rookie) BOWMANSTOWN 720 0
38 36 27M KEN ECKERT, JR. (rookie) MINERSVILLE 720 0
40 39 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 605 0
41 41 61 JOHN LEINDECKER (ro) ALLENTOWN 600 0
42 42 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG, PA 480 1
43 43 12V JOHN DEATRICH, JR PALO ALTO 370 0
44 44 22N RAY GARA (rookie) 360 0
45 45 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 285 0
46 46 1M MIKE LYONS MONROE TWP., NJ 280 0
47 47 712 KEVIN BEACH (rookie) LLEWELLYN 265 0
48 48 26X JOHN BUSH (rookie) FLEMINGTON, NJ 245 0
49 ---- 56 SHAWN HEISTAND 140 0
50 49 00 ADAM HUFF (rookie) ASBURY, NJ 125 0
51 50 88 MIKE BENT (rookie) ALPHA, NJ 120 0
52 50 3H MARC HERMAN (rookie) WINDSOR NJ 120 0
53 52 22B ARNIE SLADE UPTON, NY 0 0
54 56 16X DANNY CREEDEN MIDDLETOWN, NY 0 0
55 53 43H JIMMY HORTON, IV NESHANIC STATION, NJ 0 0
56 61 77J JEFF GEIGES LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ 0 0
57 58 98 TIM APGAR MILFORD, NJ 0 0
58 54 9B/74 BRIAN DECKER SUSQUEHANNA 0 0
59 64 57 RICKY RUTT PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 0 0
60 63 21 SHAUN WALKER MASONVILLE, NY 0 0
61 57 71D FRANK DOTY MIDDLETOWN, NY 0 0
62 55 611 BRAD GRIM COPLAY 0 0
63 65 044 LOU FARINA PHILADELPHIA 0 0
64 65 17D MIKE LONEY TAYLOR 0 0
65 59 7A GENE STRAVINSKY NEW EGYPT, NJ 0 0
66 62 1Z JESSICA ZEMKEN SPRAKERS, NJ 0 0
67 ---- 76 BOBBY LILECK KING OF PRUSSIA 0 0
69 ---- 11 RICK YARD STOCKTON, NJ 0 0
69 60 19X BRENT BOYER BLOOMSBURG 0 0
70 ---- 17B E J HANNINGTON PITTSTOWN NJ 0 0
71 65 16 DAVID BUSH ACCORD, NY 0 0
71 65 9K MIKE KETCHAM OTISVILLE, NY 0 0
71 65 6 JOHN STANGLE NESHANIC STATION, NJ 0 0
71 65 8S RICH SCAGLIOTTA BOUND BROOK, NJ 0 0
71 ---- 8J WARREN FLOYD JR MILFORD NJ 0 0
71 ---- Z28 BRIAN LILECK KING OF PRUSSIA 0 0
71 ---- 17M DERRICK MCGREW BALLSTON SPA NY 0 0
71 ---- 35X BEN DONARUMA FLEMINGTON NJ 0 0
71 ---- 42L MIKE LARTZ NICHOLSON 0 0
* - INCLUDES WIN IN 1 NON-POINT RoC 40-LAP FEATURE

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts TOT Feat
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS Wins
1 1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 4010 1
2 2 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 3930 4*
3 3 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 3695 3*
4 5 4,377 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 3600 2
5 4 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 3565 2
6 6 38,8S BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 3345 0
7 8 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 3270 0
8 7 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 3260 0
9 9 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 3235 1
10 10 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 2995 0
11 12 37 ERIC D. PINKERTON TOWER CITY 2640 0
12 11 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 2555 0
13 13 1 DAVE MILLER PINE GROVE 2440 2
14 14 712 JEREMY BECKER (rookie) FORESTVILLE 2310 0
15 15 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 1920 1
16 16 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 1705 0
17 18 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 1525 1
18 17 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 1505 1
19 19 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 1265 0
20 20 8 PETE GETTIS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1120 0
21 21 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 1080 0
22 22 00 TORY JENKINS SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 875 1
23 23 23 SHANE HECKENSWEILER 585 0
24 24 1T TIM HOBBS 550 0
25 25 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415 0
25 25 37 ERIC R. PINKERTON (rookie) TOWER CITY 415 0
27 27 377 FRAN PURCELL, JR. POTTSVILLE 340 0
28 28 1E CHARLIE ECKERT JR (rookie) 260 0
29 29 22X MIKE ALLAR ORWISBURG 210 0
30 30 377 BOB DILLNER MOORESVILLE, NC 155 0
31 31 Big1 JASON GENERELLI (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 140 0
32 32 5X DARL ELLIS BINGHAMPTON, NY 135 0
33 33 7 STEVE FESSLER 0 0
* - INCLUDES WIN IN 1 NON-POINT FEATURE

These are points for Big Diamond modified drivers for
Division I of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series only.
The highest driver in these point standings represents Big
Diamond in NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I Point
Race. The series points differ from track points and the top
point driver here may not be the track point leader!
THESE ARE NOT THE BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY TRACK POINT STANDINGS
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points
CAR DRIVER HOMETOWN Pts
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 948
2 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 934
3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 890
4 11D, 79 DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 858
5 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 844
6 1, 6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 794
7 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 790
8 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 756
9 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 728
10 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 696
11 5 PAUL KLINE READING 638
12 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 632
13 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 610
14 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 548
15 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 518
16 W9 COLT HARRIS GORDON 502
17 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 474
18 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 444
19 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 430
20 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 418
21 6SR, 6JR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 394
22 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 312
23 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 294
24 123 DAVE DISSINGER MOHRSVILLE 288
25 178 NEIL HUBER BETHEL 272
26 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 268
27 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 238
28 79 AMANDA SPOTTS PENNSBURG 232
29 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 216
30 71S SAM SCHAEFFER HAMBURG 170


NEXT EVENT(S):
Friday, Aug.12, 8PM – KREISER RACE FUELS NIGHT. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners and 600cc Modifieds.

Friday, Aug.19, 8PM - NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, ARDC Non-winged Midget Twin-20’s, NASCAR Sportsman Modifieds, and NASCAR Roadrunners.

Big Diamond Raceway Championship Point Race Quick Facts - Modifieds: Doug Hoffman leads Duane Howard by 35. Sportsman-Modifieds: Gary Wagner, Jr. leads Tom Brennan & Craig Whitmoyer by 40; Greg Weiland by 120, Brad Brightbill by 125. Roadrunners: Kevin Beach leads Kevin Holland by 115. (Each week feature winners earn 300pts. 20th gets 125, non-qualifiers get 120, ‘no shows’ get 0.)


Final Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Point Race is Aug. 26
TONIGHT’S KREISER RACE FUELS RACE CRITICAL FOR BIG DIAMOND POINTS


Minersville, PA – August 12, 2005 – Tonight’s Kreiser Race Fuels Night will play a key role in determining who the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Big Diamond Raceway point champions for 2005 as all three divisions are in heated battles that apparently will go right down to the final point race on August 26.

Tonight’s racing card will include a special appearance of the EXCEL 600cc Modifieds along with the NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners. Hot laps will start at 7:40 and racing begins at 8 o’clock.

Defending track champion, Doug Hoffman of Allentown grew his point lead from the slimmest possibly five point margin to a 35 point gap over Duane Howard of Oley. Howard appeared to be in a position to take over the point lead when he did a full 360 spin under green to drop from a battle for third to eleventh in the running order while Hoffman was one of those behind him who moved up a spot to fifth. Howard came back to get seventh while Hoffman maintained fifth.

The competitiveness of the Sportsman Modifieds was clearly show last week as Gary Wagner, Jr. of Womelsdorf moved from fourth spot, 105 points out of first in points, to the point lead last week. Past point leader Craig Whitmoyer dropped to a second place tie with Tom Brennan of Pottsville, just 40 points behind while Greg Weiland of Port Carbon fell from second to fourth, 120 points out of first. And a new face has appeared as a championship challenger as Brad Brightbill of Sinking Spring used a second and a first in last week’ features to take fifth, only 125 point behind Wagner.

The biggest lead is held by Kevin Beach of Llewellyn in the roadrunner class with a 115 point lead over Kevin Holland of Pine Grove. But Holland is hot right now and gained 45 points on Beach just last week.

The 600cc Modifieds will be making their third appearance of the year at Big Diamond Raceway tonight. So far Dave Baldwin and Tommy Martocci have captured feature wins in the 600’s at Big Diamond but there should be a dozen or other cars and drivers on hand to try to add their names to the winners list and prevent a repeat winner.

Next Friday, August 19, will mark the first time in more than 30 years that midget auto racing has rocked Forestville, PA, as the American Racing Drivers Club (ARDC) invades the Big Diamond Raceway. Over 30-years ago, under the direction of Ed Darrell, the midgets came to Big Diamond with Wayne Woodward capturing the only midget event ever run at the track.

Joining the weekly menu of NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman-Modifieds, and Roadrunners, the ARDC Midgets will sling some clay in wingless fashion. The midgets will compete in twin 20-lap features. There will not be any qualifying races for the ARDC contingent, just flat-out, broad sliding mayhem in the twin 20's.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway, go to www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY MODIFIED POINT STANDINGS
1. #77 Doug Hoffman, Allentown, PA 3535 3 feature wins
2. #357 Duane Howard, Oley, PA 3505 2 wins
3. #29 Ray Swinehart, Bechtelsville, PA 3185 2 wins
4. #88 Jeff Strunk, Bethel, PA 3130 1 win (plus 1 RoC win)
5. #1 Keith Hoffman, Whitehall, PA 3000 2 wins
6. #11D Doug Manmiller, Wyomissing, PA 2990
7. #14 Rick Laubach, Richlandtown, PA 2785 2 wins
8. #102 Shawn Fitzpatrick, Pottsville, PA 2700
9. #64w John Willman, Birdsboro, PA 2485
10. #42 Jeff Sechrist, Wernersville, PA 2480
OTHER WINNERS: Craig Von Dohren (Barto, PA) has two feature wins in the Devine 70D and is 12th in points but is currently looking for a new weekly ride in the modifieds at Big Diamond. The other RoC Modified (Big Block) race was won by Billy Pauch (Frenchtown, NJ) in the 357.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY MODIFIED ROOKIE POINT STANDINGS
1. #W9 Colt Harris, Gordon, PA 1930
2. #178 Neil Huber, Bethel, PA 1200
3. #79 Amanda Spotts, Pennsburg, PA 1055
4. #808 Dennis Horwath, Easton, PA 1010
5. #17 Ryan Grim, Laurys Station, PA 660

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY SPORTSMAN MODIFIED POINT STANDINGS
1. #47 Gary Wagner, Jr., Womelsdorf, PA 2570 1 feature win
2. #26 Tom Brennan, Pottsville, PA 2530
#99 Craig Whitmoyer, Hamburg, PA 2530 1 win (plus 1 RoC win)
4. #145 Greg Weiland, Port Carbon, PA 2450
5. #19 Brad Brightbill, Sinking Spring, PA 2445 1 win
6. #8JR Doug Hendricks, Orwigsburg, PA 2305 2 wins
7. #72 Ray Woodall, Jr., Pen Argyl, PA 2190
8. #8 Brad Force, Sellersville, PA 2170
9. #515 Larry Lippencott, Riegelsville, PA 2150
10. #19u Jordan Umbenhauer, Richland, PA 2055
OTHER WINNERS: #221 Rob Gibson, Schuylkill Haven – 1 win. #17 Billy Moyer, Pine Grove, PA – 2 wins. #15 Jason Hamilton, Erwinna, PA – 2 wins, #35 Ebby Ridge, Milford, NJ – 1 win, #21K Kyle Weiss, Hamburg, PA – 1 win. #22B Arnie Slade, Mt. Upton, NY, - 1 win in the 2nd RoC race.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY SPORTSMAN MODIFIED ROOKIE POINT STANDINGS
1. #43 Joe Masiado, Easton, PA 1975
2. #917 Jarrad Miller, Northampton, PA 1900
3. #144 Don Miller, Northampton, PA 1745
4. #71 Chris James, Mohrsville, PA 1250
5. #30 Carl Felty, Tamaqua, PA 1080

BIG DIAMOND ROADRUNNER POINT STANDINGS
1. #17 Kevin Beach, Llewellyn, PA 3810 1 feature win
2. #66 Kevin Holland, Pine Grove, PA 3695 3 wins (plus 1 non point race win)
3. #22 Tom Hablett, Schuylkill Haven, PA 3415 2 wins (plus 1 non pt. race win)
4. #721 Jason Sherman, Williamstown, PA 3405 2 wins
5. #4 & #377 Jake Smulley, Phoenix Park, PA 3300 1 win
6. #38 & #8S Butch Solt, Lehighton, PA 3165
OTHER WINNERS: #5 Dave Schultz, Forestville, PA – 1 win; #1 Dave Miller, Pine Grove, PA – 2 wins; #11 Kirby Schlappich, Temple, PA – 1 win; #117 Marty Shappell, Pottsville, PA – 1 win; #555 Elvin Brennan, Forestville, PA – 1 win, Tory Jenkins, Schuylkill Haven, PA – 1 win.

BIG DIAMOND ROADRUNNER ROOKIE POINT STANDINGS
1. (7th overall) #550 Ryan Olenick, Forestville, PA 3095
2. (8th overall) #20 Corey Sechrist, Wernersville, PA 3080
3. (9th overall) #5 Dave Schultz, Forestville, PA 3065
4. (10th overall) #11x Joe Hendricks, Auburn, PA 2840
5. (11th overall) #7T7 Andy Fayash, III, Mary-D, PA 2555


Revised Big Diamond Sportsman Modified Points

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts TOT. Feat.
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. Wins
1 4 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 2570 1
2 3 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 2530 0
2 1 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 2530 2*
4 2 145 GREG WEILAND PORT CARBON 2450 0
5 6 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 2445 1
6 5 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 2305 2
7 9 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 2190 0
8 8 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 2170 0
9 7 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 2150 0
10 10 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 2055 0
11 15 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 1975 0
12 12 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1935 0
13 16 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1930 1
14 13 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 1900 0
15 13 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 1835 0
16 11 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 1830 0
17 17 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 1820 2
18 25 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 1795 0
19 22 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 1745 0
20 19 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 1735 0
21 27 147 LOUIE MITCHALK SUMMIT HILL 1720 0
22 23 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 1665 0
23 20 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 1565 0
24 21 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 1545 2
25 23 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 1535 1
26 18 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 1485 0
27 30 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1470 0
28 26 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 1380 0
29 31 2 RICK STANKIEWICZ LAURELDALE 1340 0
30 28 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 1250 0
31 29 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 1200 0
32 32 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 1080 0
33 34 17T RYAN GRIM LAURYS STATION 1000 0
34 33 110 BILL FINNERAN 845 0
35 37 39B BARRY LIPPENCOTT(ro) UPPER BLACK EDDY 730 0
36 36 113 JEFF STERNER (rookie) BOWMANSTOWN 720 0
36 37 27M KEN ECKERT, JR. (rookie) MINERSVILLE 720 0
38 41 2T MIKE TAYLOR (rookie) MILFORD, NJ 610 0
39 35 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 605 0
39 42 13 JAMES NORRIS (rookie) 605 0
41 37 61 JOHN LEINDECKER (ro) ALLENTOWN 600 0
42 37 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG, PA 480 1
43 48 12V JOHN DEATRICH, JR PALO ALTO 370 0
44 42 22N RAY GARA (rookie) 360 0
45 44 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 285 0
46 45 1M MIKE LYONS MONROE TWP., NJ 280 0
47 46 712 KEVIN BEACH (rookie) LLEWELLYN 265 0
48 47 26X JOHN BUSH (rookie) FLEMINGTON, NJ 245 0
49 48 00 ADAM HUFF (rookie) ASBURY, NJ 125 0
50 50 88 MIKE BENT (rookie) ALPHA, NJ 120 0
50 50 3H MARC HERMAN (rookie) WINDSOR NJ 120 0
52 52 22B ARNIE SLADE UPTON, NY 0 0
53 53 43H JIMMY HORTON, IV NESHANIC STATION, NJ 0 0
54 54 9B BRIAN DECKER SUSQUEHANNA 0 0
55 55 611 BRAD GRIM COPLAY 0 0
56 56 16X DANNY CREEDEN MIDDLETOWN, NY 0 0
57 57 71D FRANK DOTY MIDDLETOWN, NY 0 0
58 58 98 TIM APGAR MILFORD, NJ 0 0
59 59 7A GENE STRAVINSKY NEW EGYPT, NJ 0 0
60 60 19X BRENT BOYER BLOOMSBURG 0 0
61 61 77J JEFF GEIGES LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ 0 0
62 62 1Z JESSICA ZEMKEN SPRAKERS, NJ 0 0
63 63 21 SHAUN WALKER MASONVILLE, NY 0 0
64 64 57 RICKY RUTT PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 0 0
65 65 16 DAVID BUSH ACCORD, NY 0 0
65 65 17D MIKE LONEY TAYLOR 0 0
65 65 9K MIKE KETCHAM OTISVILLE, NY 0 0
65 65 044 LOU FARINA PHILADELPHIA 0 0
65 65 6 JOHN STANGLE NESHANIC STATION, NJ 0 0
65 65 8 RICH SCAGLIOTTA BOUND BROOK, NJ 0 0
* - INCLUDES WIN IN 1 NON-POINT RoC 40-LAP FEATURE


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY POINTS - AUG 7

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points TOT. Feat. Wins
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS.
1 1 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 3535 3
2 2 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 3505 2
3 3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 3185 2
4 5 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 3130 2***
5 4 1,6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 3000 2
6 6 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 2990 0
7 7 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 2785 2
8 8 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 2700 0
9 10 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 2485 0
10 9 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 2480 0
11 12 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 2385 0
12 10 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 2305 2
13 13 5 PAUL KLINE READING 2210 0
14 14 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 2200 0
15 15 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 2020 0
16 16 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 1950 0
17 17 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 1935 0
18 18 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON 1930 0
19 20 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 1820 0
20 19 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1810 0
21 21 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 1460 0
22 22 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 1210 0
23 23 178 NEIL HUBER (rookie) BETHEL 1200 0
24 28 7x/37x TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 1115 0
25 24 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 1110 0
26 30 79 AMANDA SPOTTS (rookie) PENNSBURG 1055 0
27 25 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 1050 0
28 26 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) NEW RINGGOLD 1010 0
29 27 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 1005 0
30 28 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 990 0
31 31 123 DAVE DISSINGER MOHRSVILLE 980 0
32 32 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 890 0
33 33 71S SAM SCHAEFFER HAMBURG 675 0
34 34 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) LAURYS STATION 660 0
35 35 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ(rookie) CHALFONT 645 0
36 36 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 510 0
37 37 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 495 0
38 38 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 490 0
39 39 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 410 0
40 40 31 CHRIS ESPOSITO (rookie) GREEN LANE 405 0
41 41 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON 395 0
42 48 13 BOB HALL (rookie) NESCOPECK 385 0
43 42 41C BRIAN CONRAD (rookie) READING 365 0
44 43 17 JASON SMYTHE 265 0
45 44 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG 255 0
46 45 54 SMOKEY WARREN JONESTOWN 250 0
46 45 99K DON KEEFER RICHLAND 250 0
48 47 145 GREG WEILAND (rookie) PORT CARBON 245 0
49 48 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 240 0
50 70 6jr/14w RYAN WATT PERKIOMENVILLE 165 0
51 50 117 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 150 0
52 51 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 145 0
53 52 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER (rookie) RICHLAND 120 0
54 54 9R BRIAN WEAVER WINDSOR, NY 0 0
55 55 2G MITCH GIBBS NORTH NORWICH, NY 0 0
56 56 4B JR CROUSE NAZARETH 0 0
57 57 53 MIKE GULAR HARLEYSVILLE 0 0
58 58 19 KENNY BRIGHTBILL SINKING SPRING 0 0
59 59 19K PAUL KINNEY ONEIDA, NY 0 0
60 60 24 CHRIS SCHULTZ HOLMES, NY 0 0
61 61 42X ED STRADA SOUTH CANAAN 0 0
62 62 29 CHRIS OSTROWSKY CONKLIN, NY 0 0
63 63 50 RYAN BARTLETT ADAMS, NY 0 0
64 64 42H JIMMY HORTON, JR NESHANIC STATION,NJ 0 0
65 65 9D BARRY DAVIS ACCORD, NY 0 0
66 66 8 RICH SCAGLIOTTA BOUND BROOK, NJ 0 0
67 67 15X BILLY PAUCH JR FRENCHTOWN, NJ 0 0
68 68 93 BOBBY VARIN SHARON SPRINGS, NY 0 0
69 69 97 JERRY HIBBIE, JR. SLATE HILL, NY 0 0
70 71 11D TRAVIS BALTHASER BERNVILLE 0 0
70 71 2 KENNY HATT READING 0 0
70 71 51 MIKE COLSTEN 0 0
*** includes 1 win in the non-point Big Block Modified RoC 75

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts TOT. Feat.
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. Wins
1 4 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 2570 1
2 3 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 2530 0
3 1 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 2525 2*
4 2 145 GREG WEILAND PORT CARBON 2445 0
4 6 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 2445 1
6 5 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 2375 2
7 9 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 2190 0
8 8 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 2170 0
9 7 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 2145 0
10 10 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 2055 0
11 15 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 1970 0
12 12 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1930 0
12 16 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1930 1
14 13 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 1895 0
15 13 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 1835 0
16 11 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 1830 0
17 17 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 1820 2
18 25 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 1795 0
19 22 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 1735 0
20 19 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 1730 0
21 27 147 LOUIE MITCHALK SUMMIT HILL 1715 0
22 23 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 1665 0
23 20 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 1565 0
24 21 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 1545 2
25 23 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 1535 1
26 18 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 1485 0
27 30 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1460 0
28 26 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 1380 0
29 31 2 RICK STANKIEWICZ LAURELDALE 1335 0
30 28 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 1250 0
31 29 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 1200 0
32 32 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 1080 0
33 34 17T RYAN GRIM LAURYS STATION 1000 0
34 33 110 BILL FINNERAN 845 0
35 37 39B BARRY LIPPENCOTT(ro) UPPER BLACK EDDY 730 0
36 36 113 JEFF STERNER (rookie) BOWMANSTOWN 720 0
37 37 27M KEN ECKERT, JR. (rookie) MINERSVILLE 720 0
38 41 2T MIKE TAYLOR (rookie) MILFORD, NJ 610 0
39 35 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 605 0
40 42 13 JAMES NORRIS (rookie) 605 0
41 37 61 JOHN LEINDECKER (ro) ALLENTOWN 600 0
42 37 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG, PA 480 1
43 48 12V JOHN DEATRICH, JR PALO ALTO 370 0
44 42 22N RAY GARA (rookie) 360 0
45 44 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 285 0
46 45 1M MIKE LYONS MONROE TWP., NJ 280 0
47 46 712 KEVIN BEACH (rookie) LLEWELLYN 265 0
48 47 26X JOHN BUSH (rookie) FLEMINGTON, NJ 245 0
49 48 00 ADAM HUFF (rookie) ASBURY, NJ 125 0
50 50 88 MIKE BENT (rookie) ALPHA, NJ 120 0
50 50 3H MARC HERMAN (rookie) WINDSOR NJ 120 0
52 52 22B ARNIE SLADE UPTON, NY 0 0
53 53 43H JIMMY HORTON, IV NESHANIC STATION, NJ 0 0
54 54 9B BRIAN DECKER SUSQUEHANNA 0 0
55 55 611 BRAD GRIM COPLAY 0 0
56 56 16X DANNY CREEDEN MIDDLETOWN, NY 0 0
57 57 71D FRANK DOTY MIDDLETOWN, NY 0 0
58 58 98 TIM APGAR MILFORD, NJ 0 0
59 59 7A GENE STRAVINSKY NEW EGYPT, NJ 0 0
60 60 19X BRENT BOYER BLOOMSBURG 0 0
61 61 77J JEFF GEIGES LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ 0 0
62 62 1Z JESSICA ZEMKEN SPRAKERS, NJ 0 0
63 63 21 SHAUN WALKER MASONVILLE, NY 0 0
64 64 57 RICKY RUTT PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 0 0
65 65 16 DAVID BUSH ACCORD, NY 0 0
65 65 17D MIKE LONEY TAYLOR 0 0
65 65 9K MIKE KETCHAM OTISVILLE, NY 0 0
65 65 044 LOU FARINA PHILADELPHIA 0 0
65 65 6 JOHN STANGLE NESHANIC STATION, NJ 0 0
65 65 8 RICH SCAGLIOTTA BOUND BROOK, NJ 0 0
* - INCLUDES WIN IN 1 NON-POINT RoC 40-LAP FEATURE

UNOFFICIAL Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts UNOFFICIAL TOT Feat
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS Wins
1 1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 3810 1
2 2 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 3695 3
3 4 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 3415 3*
4 3 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 3405 2
5 5 4,377 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 3300 1
6 7 38,8S BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 3165 0
7 6 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 3095 0
8 9 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 3080 0
9 10 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 3065 1
10 8 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 2840 0
11 11 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 2555 0
12 14 37 ERIC D. PINKERTON TOWER CITY 2375 0
13 17 1 DAVE MILLER PINE GROVE 2220 2
14 18 712 JEREMY BECKER (rookie) FORESTVILLE 2060 0
15 12 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 1770 1
16 13 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 1705 0
17 19 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 1505 1
18 24 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 1315 1
19 20 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 1265 0
20 15 8 PETE GETTIS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1120 0
21 16 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 1080 0
22 ---- 00 TORY JENKINS SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 875 1
23 ---- 23 SHANE HECKENSWEILER 585 0
24 ---- 1T TIM HOBBS 550 0
25 21 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415 0
25 21 37 ERIC R. PINKERTON (rookie) TOWER CITY 415 0
27 27 377 BOB DILLNER MOORESVILLE, NC 305 0
28 23 1E CHARLIE ECKERT JR (rookie) 260 0
29 25 22X MIKE ALLAR ORWISBURG 210 0
30 26 377 FRAN PURCELL, JR. POTTSVILLE 190 0
31 28 Big1 JASON GENERELLI (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 140 0
32 29 5X DARL ELLIS BINGHAMPTON, NY 135 0
* - INCLUDES WIN IN 1 NON-POINT FEATURE

These are points for Big Diamond modified drivers for
Division I of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series only.
The highest driver in these point standings represents Big
Diamond in NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I Point
Race. The series points differ from track points and the top
point driver here may not be the track point leader!
THESE ARE NOT THE BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY TRACK POINT STANDINGS
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points
CAR DRIVER HOMETOWN Pts
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 890
2 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 864
3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 824
4 11D, 79 DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 794
5 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 776
6 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 764
7 1, 6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 732
8 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 704
9 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 680
10 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 636
11 5 PAUL KLINE READING 588
12 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 576
13 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 556
14 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 548
15 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 518
16 W9 COLT HARRIS GORDON 460
17 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 442
18 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 430
19 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 418
20 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 406
21 6SR, 6JR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 394
22 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 294
23 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 284
24 178 NEIL HUBER BETHEL 272
25 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 246


Coming Events at Big Diamond Raceway:
Tues., Aug. 9, 7:30PM- Race of Champions Dirt Big Block Modified 75, RoC Sportsman 40, Roadrunners. This event is an Andrew Harpell Promotion.
Fri., Aug. 12, 8:00PM - NASCAR Dodge Weekly Modifieds, Sportsman-Modifieds, Roadrunners and 600cc Modifieds.
Fri., Aug. 19, 8:00 PM - NASCAR Dodge Weekly Modifieds, Sportsman-Modifieds, Roadrunners PLUS the ARDC Midgets (no qualifying just two non-winged features).


BIG DIAMOND WINS TO SWINEHART, HENDRICKS; BRIGHTBILL WINS CAREER 1ST;
HOLLAND, HABLETT, JENKINS, SCHULTZ DIVIDE THE STATION HOUSE RR 4 CRAZY 8s


Minersville, PA – August 4 – Ray Swinehart of Bechtelsville, PA, and Doug Hendricks of Auburn, PA, again displayed some second half strength at Big Diamond Raceway on Friday night, August 5, by taking the second wins in the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds and Sportsman Modifieds in the last four weeks. Hendricks’s win came in the feature held over from July 1 but second generation star Brad Brightbill of Sinking Spring, PA took his first career Sportsman Modified win in the regularly scheduled feature on the card.

The roadrunners had four different winners in The Station House of Llewellyn Four Crazy-8s as Kevin Holland (Pine Grove) and Tom Hablett (Orwigsburg) were repeat winners and Tory Jenkins (Schuylkill Haven) and Dave Schultz (Forestville) took their 1st career wins.

After following race leader Meme DeSantis (Temple) and his Eastern Rigging #11 for 15 laps, Ray Swinehart took to the outside in turn three on lap 18 and took the lead for his second win of the year in the Guistwite Pools and Contracting / J&K Remodeling #29. Swinehart, who started eleventh, took the win over DeSantis, Jeff Strunk (Bethel), Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing), Doug Hoffman (Whitehall), Rick Laubach (Richlandtown), Duane Howard (Oley), Sean Merkel (Gilbertsville), Paul Kline (Reading), and John Willman (Birdsboro).

Bobby Gunther Walsh (Allentown) started on the pole for the 25-lap modified feature. Walsh pushed out well high in turn four as they were coming to complete lap one and the lead pack motored by with Josh Biever (Landingville) in front. DeSantis, who started fifth, followed Biever and went past him going down the backstretch to take charge on lap 2. Biever and Jason Andrews (Parryville) tangled while battling for second on the following laps and they collected Andy Burkhart (Temple), Justin Andrews (Parryville), Dave Dissinger (Mohrsville) and Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville) in turn four while Jeff Sechrist (Wernersville), Ryan Watt, and Keith Hoffman (Whitehall) pitted either for damage from the incident or other mechanical problems. This moved Swinehart to second and he ran there until his pass for the lead on lap 18.

Duane Howard started 12th and was only five points behind point leader Doug Hoffman at the start of the race. Howard moved to third by lap three with Jeff Strunk and Doug Manmiller right with him. Doug Hoffman’s progress was slowed as he passed three cars on lap 6 to crack the top ten in eighth. Hoffman was no fourth up than sixth on lap 14 when Strunk went around Howard for third. Howard tried a bit to hard to regain third and on lap 16 while trying to catch Strunk, he spun the #367 360 degrees, continuing without causing a yellow but falling to eleventh. But Rick Laubach got by Hoffman on the same lap to keep him out of the top five.

Although Swinehart was the clear winner by a wide margin, the late racing for a top five finish was intense. Doug Manmiller edged his Classic Harley Davidson/Mid-Atlantic Vinyl/Douglas Young Builder 11D in front of Strunk to take third on lap 24, but Strunk battled back to regain the position at the checkered flag in Chad Sinon’s Will’s Equipment Painting/BGP Racing #88. Also Doug Hoffman made a last lap pass of Laubach to finish fifth in Dennis Eisenhard’s Kerry Hertzog Auto Sales/East Penn Podiatry #77 while his chief rival, Duane Howard could only climb back to seventh by race’s end in Norm Hansell’s Davis Insurance Group/Norm’s Save Station #357.

In the held-over Sportsman Modified 20, Doug Hendricks came from 7th starting spot in his Pioneer Pole Buildings 8JR to take the lead from Louie Mitchalk (Summit Hill) on lap 6 and take his second career win in 22 days. Brad Brightbill came from ninth starting spot to take second over Ray Masiado (Easton), Tom Brennan (Pottsville), and Gary Wagner, Jr. (Womelsdorf).

Mitchalk took the lead front pole sitter Kevin Nolf (Nazareth) on the opening lap over Freddie Fisher (Sinking Spring) and Ray Masiado. Hendricks moved into the top five on lap three and on lap four he was third behind Mitchalk and Fisher. Hendricks passed Fisher on lap five and a lap later, he was in front.

Brad Brightbill moved steadily up from 9th starting spot to fifth by lap nine, fourth on lap 16, third on lap 17 and second on lap 19. Tom Brennan made similar progress from his 15th starting spot to take fourth on lap 17.

In the regularly scheduled Sportsman 20, Brightbill improved on his best career finish in the first feature to capture the first win of his young career in the Himmelmann Travel/IMI #19. He came from 14th starting spot to assume command on lap three when leader Ryan Grim (Laurys Station) spun and collected the remainder of the top seven cars. Brightbill was eighth and the first to avoid the melee. He then held off the strong Gary Wagner, Jr. for the win. Ray Woodall, Jr. (Pen Argyl), Kevin Nolf (Nazareth), and Rob Gibson (Schuylkill Haven) completed the top five.

Newcomer James Norris (Riegelsville) looked good in sharp his 13 Sportsman and he took the early lead from outside the front row. With one lap complete Tom Brennan, Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg), Louie Mitchalk and Doug Hendricks got together in turn four with Whitmoyer rolling his 99 without injury or car damage. Ryan Grim (Laurys Station) regained in lead on the lap two restart followed by Mike Taylor (Milford, NJ) and Ryan Moyer (Schuylkill Haven). But, in a effort to close off the inside groove in turn two, Grim spin with contact from Taylor and the next five cars were collected in the seven car shunt including Ryan Moyer, Jordan Umbenhauer (Richland), Norris, Larry Lippencott (Riegelsville) and Ray Woodall, Jr. That put Brightbill in front and he was never headed.

After leading and eventually finishing seventh in the first Sportsman 20, Louie Mitchalk of Summit Hill went over another competitor’s wheel on the backstretch while racing for ninth with Larry Lippencott and Greg Weiland (Port Carbon) and flipped his 147 end over end several times before coming to rest in turn three. Although appearing to be one of the worst flips in the history of the track. Mitchalk was alert and asking officials about how wild the flip looked. He was transported to the Good Samaritan Hospital of Pottsville for observations based on his complaint of some back pain and a headache.

Andy Miller (Schuylkill Haven) ran second at this point but Tom Brennan moving back up through the field to third by lap 11. Brennan dove under Miller in turn three and Miller tried, too late, to close the door. Brennan got knocked through the infield but Miller eventually went around and stopped after Brennan got back on track and crossed the finish line in eighth, causing a yellow.

Kevin Holland took the first Station House Roadrunner Crazy 8 over Dave Schultz and Corey Sechrist (Wernersville). The second 8 went to Tom Hablett over Dave Miller (Pine Grove) and Kevin Beach (Llewellyn). Tory Jenkins took his first career win in the third over Jake Smulley (Phoenix Park) and Holland while Schultz won the nightcap over Elvin Brennan (Forestville) and Beach.

In the first RR 8, Joe Hendricks (Auburn) led the first seven laps but Kevin Holland dove under him in turns three and four on the final lap. Hendricks realized he left the door open and tried to recover only to do into four even deeper resulting in a spin out of the top ten. It was Holland’s third win of the year.

Tom Hablett found his 22 on the pole for the second race and he went wire-to-wire for his third overall win and second NASCAR Roadrunner win. Hablett had his hands full and Tory Jenkins. Elvin Brennan and Dave Miller were all over him. Jenkins looked like he was making his move off turn two in his first actual night of racing in the full bodied cars when he spun his 00 collecting Brennan and yielding the win the Hablett.

Jenkins finish put him on the pole for the third 8 and the young man took his first career win. Jenkins had participated in two or three of the Big Diamond practice nights in the #22X driven by Hablett and Mike Allar last year. Tonight the car was numbered 00 and Jenkins held off Jake Smulley in his 377 and Jason Sherman, substituting in the Phil Levering 39 after breaking his own 721.

Jeremy Becker (Forestville) started on the pole in the final 8-lapper but Dave Schultz got away on top from the second starting spot. Becker and newcomer “Insane Shane” Heckensweiler tangled causing a yellow on lap two putting Butch Solt (Lehighton) right on Schultz. Point Leader Kevin Beach took his shot at Schultz from laps 4 through 6. Elvin Brennan took second on lap 7 and he came off turn four beside Schultz on the outside as the leaders encountered Heckensweiler. Schultz went under Shane and Brennan had no where to go. Brennan actually pushed Heckensweiler across the line with all three cars finishing under a blanket.

Racing continues at Big Diamond Raceway this Tuesday night (Aug. 9) as Andrew Harpell brings his Race of Champions Dirt Tour back to Central Pennsylvania. The RoC big block modifieds will go in a 75-lap main event that will pit the Big Diamond legal modifieds against the best RoC stars of New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania big block modified competitors. The same is true for the RoC Sportsman 40 with the Big D regulars taking on RoC’s best. Additionally the roadrunners will be on the card which will see racing starting at 7:30. For more information on this event promoted by Harpell, go to www.rocdirt.com.

Next Friday, August 12, the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners will be joined by the 600ccModifieds. Racing starts at 8 PM.

For information on Big Diamond call (570) 544-6434 or visit www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY, MINERSVILLE, PA – August 5 – RESULT SUMMARIES
NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIEDS - 25-LAP FEATURE: 1. 29 Ray Swinehart, Bechtelsville; 2. 11 Meme DeSantis, Temple; 3. 88 Jeff Strunk, Bethel; 4. 11D Doug Manmiller, Wyomissing: 5. 77 Doug Hoffman, Allentown; 6. 14 Rick Laubach, Richlandtown; 7. 357 Duane Howard, Oley; 8. 118 Sean Merkel, Gilbertsville; 9. 5 Paul Kline, Reading; 10. 64W John Willman, Birdsboro; 11. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick; 12. 6Jr Ryan Watt; 13. 21T Jason Andrews; 14. 15 Dale Hartz; 15. Sq1 Bobby Gunther Walsh; #13 Bob Hall; 17. W9 Colt Harris; 18. 42 Jeff Sechrist; 19. 79 Amanda Spotts; 20. 24H Justin Andrews; 21. 7X Tommy Sheetz, Jr.; 22. 83B Josh Biever; 23. 123 Dave Dissinger; 24. 1 Keith Hoffman; 25. 87 Andy Burkhart.

8-lap Heats:
Heat 1: 1, 64W, Sq1, 6Jr, W9, 7X, 77, 14, 118.
Heat 2: 11D, 29, 42, 123, 83B, 24H, 5, 15.
Heat 3: 11, 357, 88, 102, 21T, 79, 13, 87.

NASCAR SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS
1st 20-LAP FEATURE (Rain-delayed from July 1): 1. 8JR Doug Hendricks, Auburn; 2. 19 Brad Brightbill, Shillington; 3. 43 Joe Masiado, Easton; 4. 26 Tom Brennan, Pottsville; 5. 47 Gary Wagner, Jr., Womelsdorf; 6. 99 Craig Whitmoyer, Hamburg; 7. 147 Louie Mitchalk, Summit Hill; 8. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer; 9. 145 Greg Weiland, Port Carbon; 10. 917 Jarrad Miller, Northampton; 11. 72 Ray Woodall, Jr., 12. 221 Rob Gibson; 13. 64 Andy Miller; 14. 17T Ryan Grim; 15. 8 Brad Force; 16. 515 Larry Lippencott; 17. 17R Kevin Nolf; 18. 144 Don Miller; 19. 93 Ryan Moyer; 20. 17 Billy Moyer, Jr.; 21. 2 Rich Stankiewicz; 22. 10 Lowell Snyder; 23. 95 Freddie Fisher; 24. 12V John Deatrich, Jr., 25. 39B Barry Lippencott; 26. KT3 Cory Renninger. Non-Qualifiers: 3 Luke Wagner; 15 Jason Hamilton; 27M Ken Eckert, Jr.; 59 Jason Kohler; 35 Ebby Ridge; 110 Bill Finneran; 113 Jeff Sterner; 30 Carl Felty; 61 John Leindecker; 13 James Norris; 2T Mike Taylor.

2nd 20-LAP FEATURE: 1. 19 Brad Brightbill, Shillington; 2. 47 Gary Wagner, Jr., Womelsdorf; 3. 72 Ray Woodall, Jr., Pen Argyl; 4. 17R Kevin Nolf, Nazareth; 5. 221 Rob Gibson, Schuylkill Haven; 6. 8 Brad Force, Sellersville; 7. 26 Tom Brennan, Pottsville; 8. 17 Billy Moyer, Jr., Pine Grove; 9. 8JR Doug Hendricks, Orwigsburg; 10. 144 Don Miller, Northampton; 11. 64 Andy Miller, 12. 145 Greg Weiland; 13. 43 Ray Masiado; 14. 147 Louie Mitchalk; 15. 515 Larry Lippencott; 16. 99 Craig Whitmoyer; 17. KT3 Cory Renninger; 18. 2 Rick Stankiewicz; 19. 93 Ryan Moyer; 20. 917 Jarrad Miller; 21. 10 Lowell Snyder; 22. 17T Ryan Grim; 23. 2T Mike Taylor; 24. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer; 25. 13 James Norris; 26. 39B Barry Lippencott. Non-Qualifiers: 95 Freddie Fisher; 27M Ken Eckert, Jr.; 12V John Deatrich, Jr.

8-lap Heats
Heat 1:99, 13, 17T, 26, 93, 147, 17, 917, 10, 43.
Heat 2; 19U, 19, 8, 2T, 221, 114, 8Jr, 95, 27M, 12V.
Heat 3: 64, 2, 515, 47, 72, 145, 17R, 39B, KT3.

NASCAR ROADRUNNERS - THE STATION HOUSE ROADRUNNER FOUR CRAZY-8s
8-LAP FEATURE #1: 1. 66 Kevin Holland; 2. 5 Dave Schultz; 3. 20 Corey Sechrist; 4. 550 Ryan Olenick; 5. 1 Dave Miller; 6. 00 Tory Jenkins; 7. 712 Jeremy Becker; 8. 4 Jake Smulley; 9. 17 Kevin Beach; 10. 39 Phil Levering; 11. 8S Butch Solt; 12. 7T7 Andy Fayash, III; 13. 555 Elvin Brennan; 14. 22 Tom Brennan; 15. 11X Joe Hendricks; 16. 37 Eric Pinkerton; 17. 117 Marty Shappell; 18. 23 Shane Heckensweiler; 19. 721 Jason Sherman; 20. 1T Jim Hobbs.

8-LAP FEATURE #2: 1. 22 Tom Hablett; 2. 1 Miller; 3. 17 Beach; 4. 20 Sechrist; 5. 712 Becker; 6. 8s Solt; 7. 377 Jake Smulley; 8. 39 Jason Sherman; 9. 00 Jenkins; 10. 555 Brennan; 11. 66 Holland; 12. 550 Olenick; 13. 5 Schultz; 14. 117 Shappell; 15. 7T7 Fayash; 16. 1T Hobbs; 17. 11x Hendricks; 18. 37 Pinkerton; 19. 23 Heckensweiler; 20. -721- Phil Levering.

8-LAP FEATURE #3: 1. 00 Tory Jenkins; 2. 377 Smulley; 3. 66 Holland; 4. 1 Miller; 5. 22 Hablett; 6. 17 Beach; 7. 555 Brennan; 8. 39 Sherman; 9. 8s Solt; 10. 20 Sechrist; 11. 5 Schutz; 12. 712 Becker; 13. 23 Heckensweiler; 14. 7T7 Fayash; 15. 550 Olenick; 16. 117 Shappell; 17. 1T Hobbs; 18. 11x Hendricks; 19. 37 Pinkerton, 20. -721- Phil Levering.

8-LAP FEATURE #4: 1. 5 Dave Schultz; 2. 555 Brennan; 3. 17 Beach; 4. 66 Holland; 5. 22 Hablett; 6. 8S Solt; 7. 20 Sechrist; 8. 37 Pinkerton; 9. 1 Miller; 10. 712 Becker; 11. 39 Sherman; 12. 00 Jenkins; 13. 23 Hechensweiler; 14. 7T7 Fayash; 15. 550 Olenick; 16. 117 Shappell; 17. 1T Hobbs; 18. 11x Hendricks; 19. 37 Pinkerton; 20. -721- Levering.


NEXT EVENT(S):
Friday, Aug. 5, 8PM -- NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds (Full Card plus the held-over feature from July 1), and The Station House Roadrunner 4 Crazy-8 lap features.
Tuesday., Aug.9, 7:30PM -- Race of Champions Big Block Modified 75, RoC Sportsman 40, Roadrunner Open. An Andrew Harpell Promotion – (Big Diamond Modifieds and Big Diamond Sportsman are legal.)
August Point Race Showdowns at Big Diamond + RoC Tour Event

D. HOFFMAN LEADS HOWARD BY 5 IN BIG DIAMOND MODIFIED POINT RACE;
WHITMOYER LEADS SPORTSMAN - WEILAND, BRENNAN, WAGNER WITHIN 105


Minersville, PA – With only four point race dates remaining on the Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series schedule, the track titles for all three divisions are still up for grabs.

A late race flat tire cost point leader Doug Hoffman of Allentown his margin in the Big Diamond Raceway NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified standings and now he holds a slim five point lead over Duane Howard of Oley. Although over 400 points behind the leaders, there is a real battle for third spot in the standings as Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville) now holds the spot with 2885, just ahead of Keith Hoffman (Whitehall) with 2875 and Jeff Strunk (Bethel) at 2865.

Feature winners get 300 points, while last in the feature earns 125 and non-qualifiers receive 120 in all divisions for Big Diamond Track NASCAR points.

The race to represent Big Diamond in the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I took a slightly different twist as their different point system saw Howard move out to a comfortable lead over Hoffman this week, 832 to 802 with a maximum of 70 points per race for a win. A last place finish yields 22 points but non-qualifiers receive no points.

Craig Whitmoyer of Hamburg saw his comfortable point lead in the Sportsman Modifieds also disappear with an early departure from the second 15-lap feature this past Friday. Now Whitmoyer has three drivers on his tail. Greg Weiland of Port Carbon is only 70 points back in second while defending champion, Tom Brennan of Pottsville is 90 behind Whitmoyer and Gary Wagner, Jr. of Womelsdorf in only 105 out of the lead. This week will see the rain delayed Sportsman feature from July 1 added to this weeks full card so, barring rain, there are five point features remaining for the Sportsman Modifieds.

The biggest lead is held by Kevin Beach of Llewellyn in the roadrunner class. Beach has 2870 points while his rivals, Kevin Holland of Pine Grove and Jason Sherman of Williamstown have 2710 and 2705 respectively. But this week’s four features as part of the Station House “4 Crazy-8s” card could shuffle these three and also vault any one of four other drivers, who are within 505 of the point lead, right into the middle of the point race.

Next Friday, August 5, will see the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners on the card. The Sportsman will run their 20-lap feature, rain-delayed from the Stevenson Memorial on July 1, in addition to their full card. The Roadrunners will be running in The Station House of Llewellyn, 4 Crazy-8’s… 4 eight lap features! Racing starts at 8 PM.

The Race of Champions Modifieds and Sportsman come to Big Diamond Raceway on August 9 under the direction of RoC’s Andrew Harpell, who is also the promoter at Five Mile Point Speedway in Kirkwood, NY. The Big Block Modifieds will compete with the Big Diamond 358 Modifieds in the 75-lap feature paying $6,000 to win. Likewise the Big Diamond Sportsman will run against the best from PA, NJ and NY in a 40-lapper paying $1000 to win. The roadrunners will round out the card in a non-point feature. Racing starts at 7:30.

The RoC 75 run earlier this season was won by Big Diamond regular Jeff Strunk while the RoC Sportsman 40 went to Craig Whitmoyer.

Strunk’s win came over Rick Laubach (Richlandtown), Meme DeSantis (Temple), Ray Swinehart, and Doug Hoffman. The next five were non-regulars Brian Weaver (Windsor, NY), Mitch Gibbs (North Norwich, NY), JR Crouse (Nazareth), Kevin Hirthler (Green Lane) and Mike Gular (Harleysville).

Whitmoyer’s came over invader Arnie Slade (Upton, NY), former Big Diamond regular Jason Hamilton (Erwinna), Brad Brightbill (Shillington), Tom Brennan, outsider Jimmy Horton IV (Neshanic Station, NJ), Mike Lyons (Monroe Township, NJ), Kyle Weiss (Hamburg), Brian Decker (Susquehanna) and Doug Hendricks (Auburn).

There is one change. The RoC race WILL NOT carry a Wednesday, Aug. 10, rain date as originally planned.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway, go to www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434. For info on the race of Champions Dirt Series go to www.rocdirt.com.


BIG DIAMOND SPEEDWAY POINTS AS OF 7/30

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points TOT. Feat. Wins
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS.
1 1 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 3300 3
2 2 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 3295 2
3 4 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 2885 1
4 3 1,6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 2875 2
5 5 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 2865 1
6 6 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 2740 0
7 7 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 2565 2
8 8 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 2530 0
9 11 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 2345 0
10 9 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 2305 2
10 10 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 2305 0
12 12 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 2105 0
13 14 5 PAUL KLINE READING 2020 0
14 13 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 2000 0
15 15 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1860 0
16 15 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 1825 0
17 17 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 1810 0
18 18 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON 1790 0
19 19 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1685 0
20 20 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 1670 0
21 21 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 1460 0
22 23 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 1210 0
23 22 178 NEIL HUBER (rookie) BETHEL 1200 0
24 28 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 1110 0
25 24 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 1050 0
26 25 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) NEW RINGGOLD 1010 0
27 26 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 1005 0
28 27 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 990 0
28 29 7x/37x TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 990 0
30 30 79 AMANDA SPOTTS (rookie) PENNSBURG 925 0
31 31 123 DAVE DISSINGER MOHRSVILLE 855 0
32 35 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 735 0
33 31 71S SAM SCHAEFFER HAMBURG 675 0
34 33 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) LAURYS STATION 660 0
35 34 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ(rookie) CHALFONT 645 0
36 36 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 510 0
37 37 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 495 0
38 38 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 490 0
39 39 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 410 0
40 40 31 CHRIS ESPOSITO (rookie) GREEN LANE 405 0
41 41 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON 395 0
41 42 41C BRIAN CONRAD (rookie) READING 365 0
43 43 17 JASON SMYTHE 265 0
44 44 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG 255 0
45 45 54 SMOKEY WARREN JONESTOWN 250 0
45 51 99K DON KEEFER RICHLAND 250 0
47 46 145 GREG WEILAND (rookie) PORT CARBON 245 0
48 47 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 240 0
48 47 13 BOB HALL (rookie) NESCOPECK 240 0
50 49 117 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 150 0
51 50 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 145 0
52 52 19 JORDAN UMBENHAUER (rookie) RICHLAND 120 0

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts TOT. Feat.
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. Wins
1 1 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 2160 2*
2 2 145 GREG WEILAND PORT CARBON 2090 0
3 4 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 2070 0
4 3 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 2055 1
5 5 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 1885 1
6 12 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 1865 0
7 7 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 1850 0
8 11 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 1800 0
9 7 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 1755 0
10 7 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 1730 0
11 6 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 1710 0
12 14 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1670 0
13 13 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 1590 0
13 22 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 1590 0
15 15 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 1545 0
16 16 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1530 1
17 30 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 1495 2
18 17 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 1485 0
19 18 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 1465 0
20 19 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 1445 0
21 10 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 1425 2
22 24 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 1420 0
23 20 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 1415 1
23 23 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 1415 0
25 21 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 1405 0
26 25 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 1380 0
27 26 147 LOUIE MITCHALK SUMMIT HILL 1350 0
28 27 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 1250 0
29 29 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 1200 0
30 31 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1130 0
31 31 2 RICK STANKIEWICZ LAURELDALE 1075 0
32 28 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 960 0
33 33 110 BILL FINNERAN 725 0
34 35 17T RYAN GRIM LAURYS STATION 720 0
35 34 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 605 0
36 37 113 JEFF STERNER (rookie) BOWMANSTOWN 600 0
37 35 61 JOHN LEINDECKER (ro) ALLENTOWN 480 0
37 41 27M KEN ECKERT, JR. (rookie) MINERSVILLE 480 0
37 41 39B BARRY LIPPENCOTT(ro) UPPER BLACK EDDY 480 0
37 ----- 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG, PA 480 1
41 45 2T MIKE TAYLOR (rookie) MILFORD, NJ 365 0
42 45 22N RAY GARA (rookie) 360 0
42 45 13 JAMES NORRIS (rookie) 360 0
44 38 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 285 0
45 39 1M MIKE LYONS CRANBERRY, NJ 280 0
46 ---- 712 KEVIN BEACH (rookie) LLEWELLYN 265 0
47 40 26X JOHN BUSH (rookie) FLEMINGTON, NJ 245 0
48 43 00 ADAM HUFF (rookie) ASBURY, NJ 125 0
48 43 12V JOHN DEATRICH, JR PALO ALTO 125 0
50 45 88 MIKE BENT (rookie) ALPHA, NJ 120 0
50 45 3H MARC HERMAN (rookie) WINDSOR NJ 120 0
* - INCLUDES WIN IN 1 NON-POINT FEATURE

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts TOT Feat
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS Wins
1 1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 2870 1
2 3 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 2710 2
3 2 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 2705 2
4 4 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 2490 2*
5 5 4,377 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 2410 1
6 8 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 2380 0
7 5 38,8S BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 2365 0
8 7 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 2280 0
9 9 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 2175 0
10 10 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 2155 0
11 12 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 1930 0
14 14 37 ERIC D. PINKERTON TOWER CITY 1835 0
12 13 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 1770 1
13 11 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 1705 0
18 18 712 JEREMY BECKER (rookie) FORESTVILLE 1270 0
17 19 1 DAVE MILLER PINE GROVE 1265 2
15 15 8 PETE GETTIS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1120 0
16 16 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 1080 0
19 17 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 920 1
20 20 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 710 0
24 27 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 485 1
21 21 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415 0
21 22 37 ERIC R. PINKERTON (rookie) TOWER CITY 415 0
27 ---- 377 BOB DILLNER MOORESVILLE, NC 305 0
23 22 1E CHARLIE ECKERT JR (rookie) 260 0
25 24 22X MIKE ALLAR ORWISBURG 210 0
26 25 377 FRAN PURCELL, JR. POTTSVILLE 190 0
28 26 Big1 JASON GENERELLI (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 140 0
29 ---- 5X DARL ELLIS BINGHAMPTON, NY 135 0
* - INCLUDES WIN IN 1 NON-POINT FEATURE

These are points for Big Diamond modified drivers for Division I of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series only.
The highest driver in these point standings represents Big Diamond in NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I Point Race. The series points differ from track points and the top point driver here may not be the track point leader!
Through 13 races! Best 16 feature finishes counted.
THESE ARE NOT THE BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY TRACK POINT STANDINGS
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points
CAR DRIVER HOMETOWN Pts
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 832
2 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 802
3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 754
4 11D, 79 DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 730
5 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 714
6 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 710
7 1, 6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 708
8 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 644
9 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 628
10 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 600
11 5 PAUL KLINE READING 534
12 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 520
13 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 520
14 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 518
15 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 488
16 W9 COLT HARRIS GORDON 422
17 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 420
18 6SR, 6JR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 394
19 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 386
20 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 384
21 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 364
22 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 294
23 178 NEIL HUBER BETHEL 272
24 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 254
25 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 238


NEXT EVENT(S):
Tues., Aug. 2, 7:15PM – Final Open Practice Night of the Season
Fri., Aug. 5, 8PM– NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds (Full Card
plus held-over feature from July 1), The Station House Roadrunner 4 Crazy-8 lap features.
Tues., Aug.9, 7:30PM- An Andrew Harpell Promotion - Race of Champions Big Block Modified 75, RoC Sportsman 40, Roadrunner Open. Big Diamond Modifieds and Big Diamond Sportsman are legal.)


JEFF STRUNK TAKES FIRST BIG DIAMOND NASCAR MODIFIED WIN OF ’05;
WEISS PREVENTS MOYER SWEEP IN SPORTSMAN TWINS, SHERMAN REPEATS IN RR


Minersville, PA – July 29, 2005 – It was old times again for Jeff Strunk of Bethel, PA as he powered away from the field in the Chad Sinon, BGP Racing #88 at Big Diamond Raceway on Friday night for his first NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified win of the year at the track and his 25th career Modified win. It was Strunk’s second win of the year at Big Diamond as he also captured the Race of Champions Big Block Modified 75 early last month.

Kyle Weiss of Hamburg, PA capitalized on his first approved start of the year with the Sportsman Modifieds by taking the opening race of the Twin-15s with a late pass of Billy Moyer, PA of Pine Grove, PA. But Moyer battled to the front again in the second 15 and held on for his second win of the year. Jason Sherman of Williamstown, PA repeated an early season feat to take his second roadrunner feature win.

In the team’s first night with a Chevy replacing the Ford under the hood, Jeff Strunk powered the 88 from tenth starting spot to second by turn three on the opening lap of the Modified 25-lap main event with a jaw-dropping charge on the far outside of the track. One lap later he went by Bobby Gunther Walsh (Allentown) for the lead while the other “top dogs” struggled through the field. Duane Howard (Oley) came from the rear of the field after a pit stop on lap two to finish second followed by Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville), Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing), Paul Kline (Reading), Keith Hoffman (Whitehall), Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville), Jeff Sechrist (Womelsdorf), Sean Merkel (Gilbertsville) and Dave Dissinger (Mohrsville).

The Sportsman Modifieds went in two 15-lap features with Kyle Weiss of Hamburg, PA wasting little time by passing leader Billy Moyer, Jr. on lap 13 of the first main. Moyer took the lead on lap two from initial leader Ray Deemer, Jr. (Phillipsburg, NJ). Weiss took the win over Moyer, Doug Hendricks (Auburn), Tom Brennan (Pottsville) and Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg), Gary Wagner, Jr. (Womelsdorf), Greg Weiland (Port Carbon), Brad Brightbill (Shillington), Brad Force (Sellersville), and Larry Lippencott (Riegelsville).

In the second Sportsman 15-lapper, the top twelve finishers from the first main were re-handicapped with Kyle Weiss going twelfth. Billy Moyer, Jr. led wire-to-wire this time to take his second win of the year over rookie Jarrad Miller (Northampton), Brad Brightbill, Tom Brennan, Larry Lippencott, Gary Wagner, Jr., Ryan Moyer (Schuylkill Haven), Greg Weiland, Brad Force and Kyle Weiss.

Jeremy Becker (Forestville) led the first seven laps of the Roadrunner 15-lap feature. Joe Hendricks (Auburn) took the lead on lap 8 but, with 11 laps complete, he and second place Dave Miller (Pine Grove) made contact with Hendricks spinning and both cars being sent to restart at the rear. That put Jason Sherman on top and he went on to his second win of the year. Kevin Holland (Pine Grove) finished second followed by Elvin Brennan (Forestville), point leader Kevin Beach (Llewellyn) and Dave Schultz (Forestville).

In the Modified main, Bobby Gunther Walsh put the Square One on top at the drop of the green but had to be shocked to find Jeff Strunk lined-up to his outside during pace laps following a lap 2 yellow. That lap two yellow was caused as the field behind the leaders bottled up on the front stretch. When all was said and done Sean Merkel, Meme DeSantis, Doug Hoffman, Amanda Spotts, Don Keefer, Dale Roth and Dave Dissinger, who went deep through the infield, were listed as involved while Duane Howard, Andy Burkhart, Shawn Fitzpatrick and Tommy Sheetz, Jr. pitted due to contact. All eyes were on the pits bas the track was cleared and the field realigned as point leaders Duane Howard and Doug Hoffman. Howard rejoined the field promptly but Hoffman barely made it back as the field was in turns three and four looking for the restart green.

Strunk blasted around the outside of Walsh in turn two to take command while Doug Manmiller moved to second on lap six and Ray Swinehart to third on lap seven. Paul Kline moved by Walsh for fourth but just briefly as Duane Howard was flying and got by both to take fourth on lap seven as well. Howard went past Swinehart using the outside on lap nine and on lap ten he charged by Manmiller with his sights now only on the leader, Howard.

Hoffman was charging just as hard through the field a few cars behind Howard. Doug overtook Jeff Sechrist for seventh on lap six and then went by Keith Hoffman for sixth on lap 10. A lap 12 restart saw Doug make a huge move to go from sixth to third, right on Howard’s tail.

The final 14 laps went caution free. While Howard stayed right with Strunk for several laps, looking like he was preparing for a run for the lead, Hoffman was comfortably third but not able to run with Strunk and Howard. Strunk really pushed the buttons on the Sinon 88 in the closing laps to pull away and proved he was the man tonight.

Hoffman suddenly slowed on lap 22 with a tire going down on the Eisenhard/Klinger 77. He rode it out until Strunk lapped him on lap 24 and he pitted. Hoffman ended up 15th on the final summary putting Howard in command of the 2005 Modified point standings.

Ray Deemer, Jr. got away ahead of Don Miller (Northampton) at the start of the first Sportsman Modified 15-lap feature but Billy Moyer, Jr., who started fifth, took second from Miller on the opening lap. Moyer passed Deemer on the outside on turn two to take the lead on the second lap. Tom Brennan was coming through the field after starting tenth and moved past Deemer for second on lap six but now Kyle Weiss, who started 15th, was on his tail, taking third on lap six, followed by Doug Hendricks, Craig Whitmoyer and Gary Wagner, Jr.

Weiss pointed his 21K to the inside to finally overtake Tom Brennan on lap 12. He repeated that same move to go but Moyer in turn two to lead lap 13. Doug Hendricks was also on the move late but ran out of time as the checkered flag just after he took third from Brennan on the final lap.

In the second 15, which saw the top 12 re-handicapped, had Billy Moyer, Jr. and Don Miller’s brother, Jarrad Miller, starting second after pole sitter, Ray Deemer, Jr. elected to start at the rear with concern over his 25. Moyer led Miller for all but three laps in the middle of the 15-lappper when Doug Hendricks, who started sixth, ran third, But Hendricks was forced pit side on lap ten with mechanical problems before he could challenge Moyer. There were only two cautions in the entire event and none after lap six. Brad Brightbill moved past Larry Lippencott for third on lap ten but could not overtake Miller before the finish.

This Tuesday, August 2, is an Open Practice at Big Diamond Raceway at 7:15 with any drivers, with or without track or NASCAR memberships, from any division able to get some practice time for a pit admission fee of $20. Fans will be admitted free to the spectator area.

Next Friday, August 5, will see the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners on the card. The Sportsman will run their 20-lap feature, rain-delayed from the Stevenson Memorial on July 1, in addition to their full card. The Roadrunners will be running in The Station House of Llewellyn, 4 Crazy-8’s… 4 eight lap features!

The Race of Champions Modifieds and Sportsman come to Big Diamond raceway on August 9 under the direction of RoC’s Andy Harpell. The Big Block Modifieds will compete with the Big Diamond 358 Modifieds in the 75-lap feature paying $6,000 to win. Likewise the Big Diamond Sportsman will run against the best from PA, NJ and NY in a 40-lapper paying $1000 to win. The roadrunners will round out the card in a non-point feature. Racing starts at 7:30.

There is one change. The RoC race WILL NOT carry a Wednesday, Aug. 10, rain date as originally planned.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway, go to www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434. For info on the race of Champions Dirt Series go to www.rocdirt.com.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY, Minersville, PA - RACE RESULTS - JULY 29, 2005
NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIEDS - 25-LAP FEATURE -$2000 to Win – 1. 88 Jeff Strunk, Bethel, PA; 2. 357 Duane Howard, Oley, PA; 3. 29 Ray Swinehart, Bechtelsville, PA; 4. 11D Doug Manmiller, Wyomissing, PA; 5. 5 Paul Kline, Reading, PA; 6. 1 Keith Hoffman, Whitehall, PA; 7. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick, Pottsville, PA; 8. 42 Jeff Sechrist, Womelsdorf, PA; 9. 118 Sean Merkel, Gilbertsville, PA; 10. 123 Dave Dissinger, Mohrsville, PA; 11. 7X Tommy Sheetz, Jr.; 12. 21T Jason Andrews, 13. W9 Colt Harris; 14. 79 Amanda Spotts; 15. 77 Doug Hoffman; 16. Sq1 Bobby Gunther Walsh; 17. 64W John Willman; 18. 83B Josh Biever; 19. 87 Andy Burkhart; 20. 6 Dale Roth; 21. 15 Dale Hartz; 22. 24H Justin Andrews, 23. 14 Rick Laubach; 24. 11 Meme DeSantis; 25. 99K Don Keefer; 26. 72 Jeff Ebersole.

Heat 1: 357, 87, 24H, 42, 88, 102, W9, 15, 6.
Heat 2: 29, Sq1, 77, 14, 11, 83B, 118, 123, 99K.
Heat 3: 1. 11D, 21T, 5, 7X, 64W, 79, 72.

NASCAR SPORTSMAN MODIFIED TWIN-15’S
1ST 15-LAP FEATURE - $450 to Win - 1. 21K Kyle Weiss, Hamburg, PA; 2. 17 Billy Moyer, Jr., Pine Grove, PA; 3. 8JR Doug Hendricks, Auburn, PA; 4. 26 Tom Brennan, Pottsville, PA; 5. 99 Craig Whitmoyer, Hamburg, PA; 6. 47 Gary Wagner, Jr., Womelsdorf, PA; 7. 145 Greg Weiland, Port Carbon, PA; 8. 19 Brad Brightbill, Shillington, PA; 9. 8 Brad Force, Sellersville, PA; 10. 515 Larry Lippencott, Riegelsville, PA; 11. 917 Jarrad Miller; 12. 25; Ray Deemer, Jr.; 13. 72 Ray Woodall, Jr.; 14. 64 Andy Miller; 15. 10 Lowell Snyder; 16. 93 Ryan Moyer; 17. 712 Kevin Beach; 18. 144 Don Miller; 19. 147 Louie Mitchalk; 20. 73 Darrell Herman; 21. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer; 22. 2 Rich Stankiewicz; 23. 43 Ray Masiado; 24. 2T Mike Taylor; 25. 221 Rob Gibson; 26. KT3 Cory Renninger.

2ND 15-LAP FEATURE - $450 to win - 1. 17 Billy Moyer, Jr., 2. 917 Jarrad Miller, Northampton, PA; 3. 19 Brad Brightbill; 4. 26 Tom Brennan; 5. 515 Larry Lippencott; 6. 47 Gary Wagner, Jr.; 7. 93 Ryan Moyer, Schuylkill Haven, PA; 8. 145 Greg Weiland; 9. 8 Brad Force; 10. 21K Kyle Weiss; 11. 19U Umbenhauer; 12. 144 D. Miller; 13. 72 Woodall; 14. 147 Mitchalk; 15. KT3 Renninger; 16. 64 A. Miller; 17. 59 Jason Kohler; 18. 10 Snyder; 19. 95 Freddie Fisher; 20. 43 Masiado; 21. 73 Herman; 22. 8JR Hendricks; 23. 712 Beach; 24. 35 Deemer; 25. 99 Whitmoyer; 26. 221 Gibson. Scratched: 2 Stankiewicz, 2T Taylor.

Heat 1: 147, 26, 99, 64, 43, 73, 17R Kevin Nolf, 13 James Norris, 113 Jeff Sterner, 19U.
Heat 2: 21K, 17, 19, 25, 917, 27M Ken Eckert, Jr., 515, 17T Ryan Grim, 95, 35 Ebby Ridge.
Heat 3: 93, 47, 144, 8, 712, 2T, 59, 157 Andy Fayash, Jr., 3 Luke Wagner, 39B Barry Lippencott.
Heat 4: 221, 2, 8JR, 10, KT3, 71 Chris James, 72, 145, 22N Ray Gara.
Consi 1: 515, 73, 19U, 95, 35, 17T, 13, 27M, 113, 17R.
Consi 2: 2T, 72, 145, 59, 22N, 71, 157, 3, 29B.

NASCAR ROADRUNNERS - 15-LAP FEATURE - $100 to win - 1. 721 Jason Sherman, Williamstown, PA; 2. 66 Kevin Holland, Pine Grove, PA; 3. 555 Elvin Brennan, Forestville, PA; 4. 17 Kevin Beach, Llewellyn, PA; 5. 5 Dave Schultz, Forestville, PA; 6. 550 Ryan Olenick; 7. 8S Butch Solt; 8. 712 Jeremy Becker; 9. 1 Dave Miller, 10. 4 Jake Smulley; 11. 22 Tom Hablett, 12, 20 Corey Sechrist; 13. 11X Joe Hendricks; 14. 37 Eric Pinkerton; 15. 377 Fran Purcell, Jr.; 16. 7T7 Andy Fayash, III.
Heat 1: 66, 20, 8, 17, 22, 377, 5, 7T7.
Heat 2: 37, 721, 11x, 550, 555, 4, 1, 712.


PETITIONS FOR BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES SPORTSMAN COMPETITION APPROVED
Minersville, PA – Approved petitions 7/25/05

1. KEVIN BEACH
A petition is approved to allow Kevin Beach of Llewellyn, PA to begin competing in the NASCAR Sportsman Modified class for the remainder of the 2005 season without jeopardizing his points or his eligibility for competition in the Big Diamond NASCAR Roadrunner class for the remainder of the season. This is being allowed in anticipation of Kevin Beach making a decision to move up to the NASCAR Sportsman Modified in 2007 or remain in the NASCAR Roadrunner class.

2. KYLE WEISS
After being rejected in the off-season and again prior to the 2005 season opener, a petition is now approved to permit former Big Diamond NASCAR Modified competitor Kyle Weiss of Hamburg, PA to drop back and compete in the Big Diamond NASCAR Sportsman Modified division. The provisos of this move are the same as those applied to Jason Hamilton earlier this season.
a. Kyle Weiss may compete with the Big Diamond NASCAR Modifieds only on nights when the Big Diamond NASCAR Sportsman Modifieds are not racing at Big Diamond without penalty.
b. Should Kyle Weiss elect to compete with the Big Diamond NASCAR Modifieds at any one time during the remainder of this season when the NASCAR Sportsman Modifieds are on the card, he will immediately be ineligible for Big Diamond NASCAR Sportsman-Modified competition.
c. Classes in which Kyle Weiss participates at other speedways have no bearing on his Big Diamond eligibility.

Jeffrey Gromis
Chief Steward & Race Director

F.G. Roehrig
Promoter


Big Diamond Points

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points TOT. Feat. Wins
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS.
1 1 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 3150 3
2 2 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 3015 2
3 5 1,6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 2655 2
4 6 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 2620 1
5 3 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 2565 0
6 7 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 2490 0
7 7 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 2440 2
8 9 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 2320 0
9 4 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 2305 2
10 10 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 2165 0
11 11 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 2145 0
12 12 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 1980 0
13 13 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 1810 0
14 14 5 PAUL KLINE READING 1785 0
15 15 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1695 0
15 16 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 1695 0
17 17 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 1675 0
18 18 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON 1630 0
19 19 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1560 0
20 20 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 1525 0
21 21 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 1460 0
22 24 178 NEIL HUBER (rookie) BETHEL 1200 0
23 25 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 1085 0
24 22 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 1050 0
25 23 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) NEW RINGGOLD 1010 0
26 29 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 1005 0
27 27 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 990 0
28 28 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 985 0
29 26 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 820 0
30 32 79 AMANDA SPOTTS (rookie) PENNSBURG 770 0
31 35 71S SAM SCHAEFFER HAMBURG 675 0
31 36 123 DAVE DISSINGER MOHRSVILLE 675 0
33 31 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) LAURYS STATION 660 0
34 40 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ(rookie) CHALFONT 645 0
35 30 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 610 0
36 33 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 510 0
37 41 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 495 0
38 34 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 490 0
39 36 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 410 0
40 38 31 CHRIS ESPOSITO (rookie) GREEN LANE 405 0
41 39 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON 395 0
42 46 41C BRIAN CONRAD (rookie) READING 365 0
43 --- 17 JASON SMYTHE 265 0
44 41 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG 255 0
45 --- 54 SMOKEY WARREN JONESTOWN 250 0
46 --- 145 GREG WEILAND (rookie) PORT CARBON 245 0
47 43 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 240 0
47 --- 13 BOB HALL (rookie) NESCOPECK 240 0
49 44 117 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 150 0
50 45 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 145 0
51 46 99K DON KEEFER RICHLAND 125 0
52 48 19 JORDAN UMBENHAUER (rookie) RICHLAND 120 0

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts TOT. Feat.
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. Wins
1 1 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 1800 1
2 2 145 GREG WEILAND PORT CARBON 1680 0
3 4 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 1615 1
4 3 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 1570 0
5 11 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 1495 1
6 5 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 1470 0
7 7 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 1435 0
7 9 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 1435 0
7 10 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 1435 0
10 5 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 1425 2
11 7 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 1420 0
12 15 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 1400 0
13 17 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 1340 0
14 12 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1315 0
15 13 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 1295 0
16 14 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1280 1
17 16 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 1245 0
18 18 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 1190 0
19 19 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 1185 0
20 20 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 1175 1
21 21 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 1165 0
22 28 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 1140 0
23 22 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 1130 0
24 23 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 1120 0
25 23 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 1090 0
26 26 147 LOUIE MITCHALK SUMMIT HILL 1065 0
27 27 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 1010 0
28 29 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 960 0
29 25 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 950 0
30 30 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 915 1
31 31 2 RICK STANKIEWICZ LAURELDALE 830 0
31 32 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 830 0
33 33 110 BILL FINNERAN 725 0
34 33 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 605 0
35 35 17T RYAN GRIM LAURYS STATION 480 0
35 36 61 JOHN LEINDECKER (ro) ALLENTOWN 480 0
37 36 113 JEFF STERNER (rookie) BOWMANSTOWN 360 0
38 38 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 285 0
39 39 1M MIKE LYONS CRANBERRY, NJ 280 0
40 40 26X JOHN BUSH (rookie) FLEMINGTON, NJ 245 0
41 43 27M KEN ECKERT, JR. (rookie) MINERSVILLE 240 0
41 43 39B BARRY LIPPENCOTT(ro) UPPER BLACK EDDY 240 0
43 41 00 ADAM HUFF (rookie) ASBURY, NJ 125 0
43 41 12V JOHN DEATRICH, JR PALO ALTO 125 0
45 43 2T MIKE TAYLOR (rookie) MILFORD, NJ 120 0
45 43 22N RAY GARA (rookie) 120 0
45 43 88 MIKE BENT (rookie) ALPHA, NJ 120 0
45 43 3H MARC HERMAN (rookie) WINDSOR NJ 120 0
45 ----- 13 JAMES NORRIS (rookie) 120 0

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts TOT Feat
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS Wins
1 1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 2620 1
2 3 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 2430 2
3 2 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 2405 1
4 4 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 2320 1
5 5 4,377 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 2230 1
6 8 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 2160 0
7 5 38,8S BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 2155 0
8 7 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 2120 0
9 9 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 2010 0
10 10 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 1920 0
11 12 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 1785 0
12 13 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 1770 1
13 11 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 1705 0
14 14 37 ERIC D. PINKERTON TOWER CITY 1680 0
15 15 8 PETE GETTIS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1120 0
16 16 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 1080 0
17 19 1 DAVE MILLER PINE GROVE 1075 2
18 18 712 JEREMY BECKER (rookie) 1070 0
19 17 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 920 1
20 20 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 710 0
21 21 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415 0
21 22 37 ERIC R. PINKERTON (rookie) TOWER CITY 415 0
23 22 1E CHARLIE ECKERT JR (rookie) 260 0
24 27 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 220 1
25 24 22X MIKE ALLAR ORWISBURG 210 0
26 25 377 FRAN PURCELL, JR. POTTSVILLE 190 0
27 ---- 377 BOB DILLNER MOORESVILLE, NC 155 0
28 26 Big1 JASON GENERELLI (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 140 0
29 ---- 5X DARL ELLIS BINGHAMPTON, NY 135 0


These are points for Big Diamond modified drivers for
Division I of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series only.
The highest driver in these point standings represents Big
Diamond in NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I Point
Race. The series points differ from track points and the top
point driver here may not be the track point leader!
THESE ARE NOT THE BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY TRACK POINT STANDINGS
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points
CAR DRIVER HOMETOWN Pts
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 764
2 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 760
3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 688
4 11D, 79 DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 666
5 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 654
6 1, 6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 648
7 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 640
8 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 618
9 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 590
10 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 544
11 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 518
12 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 484
13 5 PAUL KLINE READING 472
14 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 466
15 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 464
16 6SR, 6JR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 394
17 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 386
18 W9 COLT HARRIS GORDON 376
19 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 358
20 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 336
21 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 324
22 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 294
23 178 NEIL HUBER BETHEL 272
24 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 238
25 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 204
26 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 194
27 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 172
28 71S SAM SCHAEFFER HAMBURG 170
29 123 DAVE DISSINGER MOHRSVILLE 164
30 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ CHALFONT 148


Fri., July 29, 8 PM - NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modified Twin-15s, Roadrunners.
Tues., August 2, 7:15 – Open Practice.
Fri., August 5, 8PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modified Double Feature (full card plus held over 20-lapper), and The Station House Roadrunner Four Crazy 8s.


SWINEHART, DOUG HOFFMAN TAKE BIG DIAMOND MODIFIED WINS;
CLAUSS MAKES LATE PASS FOR URC WIN; HOLLAND TOPS ROADRUNNERS

Minersville, PA – July 22, 2005 – Despite two rain-delays and lightning in the southern skies, Big Diamond Raceway was able to complete their Friday night racing card with Ray Swinehart of Bechtlesville and Doug Hoffman of Allentown taking NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified wins, Jason Clauss of Boyertown topping the United Racing Club Sprints and Kevin Holland of Pine Grove repeating as a winner in the Roadrunners.

Bob Dillner of SPEED TV was on hand and competed in the roadrunners. Although Bob has asphalt racing experience, it was his first real competition on dirt in a full stock car. In spite of knocking the Jake Smulley #377 car out of gear during the event, Bob adapted quickly to the dirt to finish 14th after starting 17th in the 18-car field.

The first event was the 20-lap Modified feature that was held-over from the Georgie Stevenson Memorial on July 1 and a feature on early evening track yielded one of the most entertaining races of the year. Ray Swinehart first held off Duane Howard (Oley), then point leader Doug Hoffman and then Howard again in the closing laps. Both Hoffman and Howard drew even with Swinehart, with inside and outside runs, but Ray was up to every challenge to take his 1st win of the year in the Guistwite Pools and Contracting / J&K Remodeling #29 over Howard, Keith Hoffman (Whitehall), Doug Hoffman, Rick Laubach (Richlandtown), Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing), Greg Hummelhanz (Chalfont), Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville), Jeff Sechrist (Wernersville), and John Willman (Birdsboro).

Jason Clauss scored his second URC win of the season and his career win in the United Racing Club 25-lap sprint feature. Just five laps from the finish, Clauss moved into second then quickly chased down race leader Josh Weller to take the lead on lap 24. In heavy lapped traffic, Weller charged back but dove too low off track and spun in front of the rest of the pack. Trevor Lewis (Upper Black Eddy) avoided Weller and the infield track tire he carried onto the track to take second in the checkered/yellow finish over Gary Gollub (Mohnton), Kramer Williamson (Palmyra), Ed Aikin (Lincoln University), Curt Michael (Ocean View, DE), Chris Coyle (Wilmington, DE), Scott Pursell (Frenchtown, NJ), Mark Bitner (Trenton, NJ) and Brian Seidel (Allentown).

In the regularly scheduled 25-lap Modified feature Doug Hoffman battled for several laps with leader Meme DeSantis (Temple) until he finally moved Dennis Eisenhard’s B&I Auto Supply / Jim Sprout Excavating / Craft Oil #77 into the lead. Hoffman became the first three-time modified winner of the year at Big Diamond, winning over DeSantis, Doug Manmiller, Keith Hoffman, Duane Howard, Jeff Strunk (Bethel), Ray Swinehart, Rick Laubach, Tracy Readinger (Oley) and Shawn Fitzpatrick.

Kevin Holland overtook Corey Sechrist (Womelsdorf) on lap 7 to take his second NASCAR Roadrunner win of the season over Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven), Dave Miller (Pine Grove), Eric Pinkerton (Tower City) and Ryan Olenick (Forestville).

Greg Hummelhanz started on the pole for the opening 20-lap Modified man. He led the first two laps, going three wide with Ray Swinehart and Shawn Fitzpatrick, before Swinehart charged off turn two on the inside to take command. With the starting order determined by a top 12 invert from the first 20-lapper of the Twin-20’s on July 1, Duane Howard started fourth and was right on Swinehart’s tail by lap seven. Howard made several runs to the inside of Swinehart to no avail and on a lap eight restart, Doug Hoffman, who started tenth, got by Howard for second. Doug went right after Swinehart. When Swinehart thwarted Hoffman’s outside run on lap 14, Doug pushed out and both Howard and Keith Hoffman took second and third. Rick Laubach dropped the strong running Hummelhanz out of the top five at that point but his charge progressed no further.

It was again Howard’s shot, and with two to go he drew even in turn four and down the front stretch with the leader. Howard stuck with that inside run to the finish but Swinehart was able to protect the position and edge Howard for the win.

In the 25-lap United Racing Club feature event, Gary Gollub set the early pace with Josh Weller racing in second and Jason Clauss third. Gollub remained the leader until lap seven when Weller took the top spot. The first caution of the event was displayed on lap nine for Joe Zuczek (Robbinsville, NJ) who spun in turn four.

On the restart, Weller, Gollub and Clauss were in a three car battle with Scott Pursell and Trevor Lewis just several car lengths behind the leaders. Lewis passed Pursell to take the fourth spot as Dave Ely (West Lawn) also squeezed by to round out the top five. As the field passed for the halfway sign, Bill Brian Jr. (Ephrata) had a tire go flat bringing out the second caution of the race. With half the race in the books, Weller, Gollub, Clauss, Lewis and Ely made up the top five.

This race really became interesting as Clauss moved into second on lap twenty. With just five laps remaining, you could just sense there would be a dramatic ending. With three laps reaming, Weller and Clauss were battling for the lead, meanwhile Gollub, Ely and Kramer Williamson were doing some juggling just to stay in the top five.

With the white flag waiving, Clauss became the new leader, but a determine Weller was fighting back. The final run down the backstretch, Weller moved to in the inside lane as he challenged Clauss for the lead. Weller bobbled then quickly adjusted only to take another run at the leader. Going into turn four, the adjustment took him off track and into an inside tire track infield marker, sending him spinning across traffic as the rest of the field charged out of turn four in chase of the checkered flag. There were no injuries but Weller collected Ely, knocking him out of a sure top five finish.

The 25-lap NASCAR Modified main saw Bobby Gunther Walsh (Allentown) get away on top from the pole to take the early lead. Second place started Josh Biever (Landingville) made a big charge to the inside of Walsh in turns three and four to edge in from as they completed lap three. They rubbed a bit preparing for turn one but Walsh continued to hang beside Biever on the outside only to have the Square 1 get out from under him in turn two collecting Andy Burkhart (Temple) and Dave Dissinger (Mohrsville), who were running third and sixth respectively.

On the restart Biever was in front but sixth place starter Meme DeSantis charged off turn two to take the lead with an inside move. Biever bobbled and Doug Manmiller dove low and John Willman went high to drop him two more spots going down the backstretch. A lap later Manmiller took second from Willman and Doug Hoffman went by Biever for fourth.

A lap six restart saw Hoffman make a charge to move by Willman and Manmiller for second while Jeff Strunk powered by Willman as well for fourth. Hoffman went right after DeSantis and on lap eight he edged by the leader on the back straight to take the lead and the eventual win.

Darl Ellis towed from Binghampton, NY to race with the roadrunners and, upon learning his car was no where close to legal, instead of accepting the offer of getting his money back, he said he towed this far to race and chose to race anyway, knowing he would be place last no matter where he finished. His car, which appeared to be closer to a semi-late or thundercar than a roadrunner, was superior and he came through the field to take the “lead” on lap 8 to “win”.

The race summary, ignoring Ellis’s presence, saw Jeremy Becker (Forestville) take the lead from Eric Pinkerton (Tower City) on the opening lap of the 15-lap Roadrunner main. Pinkerton regained the spot on lap two only to see rookie Corey Sechrist (Wernersville) take charge on lap 5. Kevin Holland worked his way up from eighth starting spot to contend with Corey on lap 5 as well. Holland finally got by the strong rookie on lap 8 to go on to win over a late charge from Tom Hablett and Dave Miller.

Heat winners in the 25-car modified field were Duane Howard, John Willman and Jeff Strunk while Rick Laubach captured the consolation. Roadrunner heat winners were Kevin Holland and Corey Sechrist.

A field of 29 URC sprint cars turned out for the twelfth event of the 2005 Advance Auto Parts Sprint Series tour. The three heat race events were won by Gollub, Pursell and Weller as Midge Miller took the win in the consolation.

This coming Friday, August 29, the NASCAR Sportsman Modifieds return to the three division card with the Modifieds and Roadrunners. To compensate for their off week, the Sportsman will compete in two, 15-lap features.

The Sportsman feature, twice delayed on July 1 and July 6, will be added to the August 5 along with the rescheduled Station House Four Crazy Eight program. The NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series schedule that night will start with the held over Sportsman 20 followed by a complete package of qualifying events for the Modifieds and Sportsman. The Modifieds and the Sportsman will follow with their respective 25 and 20 laps features intertwined with The Four Crazy Eights for the Roadrunners sponsored by The Station House of Llewellyn, PA.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or drop in on the track website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIEDS
20-LAP FEATURE (delayed from July 1): 1. 29 Ray Swinehart, 2. 357 Duane Howard, 3. 1 Keith Hoffman, 4. 77 Doug Hoffman, 5. 14 Rick Laubach, 6. 11D Doug Manmiller, 7. 02 Greg Hummelhanz, 8. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick, 9. 42 Jeff Sechrist, 10. 64W John Willman, 11. 87 Andy Burkhart, 12. 83B Josh Biever, 13. 5 Paul Kline, 14. W9 Colt Harris, 15. 118 Sean Merkel, 16. 24H Justin Andrews, 17. 17 Jason Smythe, 18. 79 Amanda Spotts, 19. 123 Dave Dissinger, 20. 178 Neil Huber, 21. 85 Bobby Forsythe, 22. 88 Jeff Strunk, 23. 71S Sam Schaeffer, 24. 6SR Rick Schaffer, 25. 11 Meme DeSantis, 26. SQ1 Bobby Gunther Walsh, 27. 21T Jason Andrews.
25-LAP FEATURE: 1. 77 D. Hoffman, 2. 11 DeSantis, 3. 11D Manmiller, 4. 1 K. Hoffman, 5. 357 Howard, 6. 88 Strunk, 7. 29 Swinehart, 8. 14 Leinbach, 9. 2T Tracy Readinger, 10. 102 Fitzparick, 11. 42 Sechrist, 12. 6JR R. Schaffer, 13. 64W Willman, 14. 83B Biever, 15. 5 Kline, 16. W9 Harris, 17. 72 Jeff Ebersole, 18. 123 Dissinger, 19. 54 Smokey Warren, 20. 24H Ju. Andrews, 21. Sq1 Walsh, 22. 71S S. Schaeffer, 23. 145 Greg Weiland, 24. 178 Huber, 25. 118 Merkel, 26. 17 Smythe, 27. 87 Burkhart, 28. 6 Dale Roth. DNQ: 79 Spotts, 57 Bill Gensler, 41C Brian Conrad, 02 Hummelhanz, 13 Bob Hall, 85 Forsythe, 21T Ja. Andrews.

10-Lap Heats
Heat 1: 357, 42, 6JR, 29, 83B, 5, 72, 6, 54, 79, 13, 21T.
Heat 2: 64W, 11D, 77, 1, 87, 2T, 118, 24H, 17, 178, 85.
Heat 3: 88, Sq1, 123, 71s, 11, 102, 145, 14, W9, 57, 41C, 02.
10-lap Consi: 14, 6, 17, 24H, W9, 54, 178, 79, 57, 41C, 02, 13, 85, 21T.

UNITED RACING CLUB 25-LAP FEATURE: 1. 08 Jason Clauss, 2. 56 Trevor Lewis, 3. 36 Gary Gollub, 4. 73 Kramer Williamson, 5. 19a Ed Aikin, 6. 99 Curt Michael, 7. 54 Chris Coyle, 8. 1 Scott Pursell, 9. 15 Mark Bitner, 10. 6 Brian Seidel, 11. 5G Dave McGough, 12. 2W Kevin Welsh, 13. 25 Jon Eldreth, 14. 39 Tim Hogue, 15. 14 Will Urkuski, 16. 17 Junior Martin, 17. 8 Midge Miller, 18. 50 Joe Zuczek, 19. 63 Josh Weller, 20. 3 Dave Ely, 21. 21 Scott McClaren, 22. 19 Johnny Zimmerman, 23. 00 Bill Brian Jr. 24. 11X Pete Green. DNQ- 2B Brook Bowman, 22 Dave Betts, 76X Jamie Bodo, 3S Daryl Smith, 64K Kyle Purks.

10-LAP HEATS
Heat 1: 36, 08, 39, 6, 54, 50, 8, 21, 64K, 35.
Heat 2: 1, 15, 3, 73, 5G, 2W, 14, 19, 76X, 2B.
Heat 3: 63, 99, 56, 00, 19A, 17, 11X, 25, 22.
12-lap B-Main: 8, 11x, 25, 14, 21, 19, 2B, 22, 76X, 3S, 64K.

NASCAR ROADRUNNERS 15-LAP FEATURE: 1. 66 Kevin Holland, 2. Tom Hablett, 3. 1 Dave Miller, 4. 37 Eric Pinkerton, 5. 550 Ryan Olenick, 6. 555 Elvin Brennan, 7. 721 Jason Sherman, 8. 8S Butch Solt, 9. 4 Jake Smulley, 10. 20 Corey Sechrist, 11. 11X Joe Hendricks, 12. 17 Kevin Beach, 13. 712 Jeremy Becker, 14. 377 Bob Dillner, 15. 11 Kirby Schlappich, 16. 7T7 Andy Fayash III, 17. 5 Dave Schultz, 18, (DQ) Darl Ellis.
Heat 1:66, 1, 712, 8S, 550, 4, 11, 7T7, 5X.
Heat 2: 20, 5, 37, 17, 721, 22, 377, 11x, 555.


SPEED TV’S BOB DILLNER RACING ROADRUNNER AT BIG DIAMOND TONIGHT;
MODIFIED DOUBLE FEATURE, URC SPRINTS ALSO ON CARD DIAMOND CARD


Minersville, PA – July 22, 2005 – A double feature for the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, a visit by the United Racing Club Sprint Cars, the NASCAR Roadrunners and a NASCAR weekend at nearby Pocono International Raceway was just too much for SPEED TV commentator Bob Dillner to pass up tonight at Big Diamond Raceway. So Bob Dillner confirmed that he was not only coming to Big Diamond tonight but also adding his name to the competitors’ list as the pilot of the Jake Smulley #4 NASCAR Roadrunner.

This evening’s card will open with the held-over, 20-lap Modified feature from the July 1 rain-interrupted card. Then heats for the URC Sprints, Modifieds and Roadrunners will follow as part of the scheduled special event program. Car counts will determine if consolations are run prior to the 25-lap features for the URC Sprints, and the NASCAR Modifieds and then the NASCAR Roadrunner 15-lapper.

Dillner, called Thursday afternoon to confirm he would be racing in the roadrunners tonight. “I am on my way to Pocono after racing a truck last night at Oxford,” he shared. “I find out my weekend SPEED schedule in the morning and that will determine how early I can get there. I can’t imagine there will be any problems this time.”

“Last night I started 20th and got up to sixth before the engine blew in the truck”, continued Bob, who has visited Diamond with his brother and dad in the past a time or two. “I have been in quite a few races in various divisions on asphalt and recently have run a few races dirt events. I am really excited about coming to Diamond and racing. I usually get to all of the Nextel Cup races and really enjoy what I am doing, but I love the local short tracks around the country.”

The URC sprint contingent will be led by Curt Michael of Ocean View, DE, the winner of the Big Diamond URC event held on April 29th. Runner-up in that event, the veteran Gary Gollub (Mohnton) will lead the list of challengers including Scott Purcell (Frenchtown, NJ), Brian Seidel (Allentown), Jon Eldreth (Rising Sun, MD), Josh Weller (Mertztown), Ed Aikin (Lincoln University), Joe Zurzek (Robbinsville, NJ), Bill Brian, Jr. (Ephrata), Dave McGough (Sassamansville), Dave Ely (West Lawn), Tim Hogue (Medford, NJ), Kramer Williamson (Palmyra), Kevin Welsh (Far Hills, NJ), Chris Coyle (Wilmington, DE), Trevor Lewis (Upper Black Eddy) and others.

Over on the stock car side, the two modified features may play a major part in the season-long point races. Ironically Doug Hoffman of Allentown leads Duane Hoard of Oley in the track’s official NASCAR point standings. But in an ironic twist, Howard holds the higher NASCAR Dodge Weekly Racing Series Division I points than Hoffman and it currently the speedways representative in that national divisional point race.

But these two, who each have two 2005 feature wins, are not alone. Rick Laubach of Richlandtown and Keith Hoffman of Whitehall also have two feature wins this season at Big Diamond and will contend for the feature wins along with RoC Modified winner Jeff Strunk of Bethel, Meme DeSantis of Temple, Doug Manmiller of Wyomissing, Ray Swinehart of Bechtelsville, Shawn Fitzpatrick of Pottsville, Rick Schaffer of Woxall, Jeff Sechrist of Wernersville, John Willman of Birdsboro, Sean Merkel of Gilbertsville and many others.

The usual $20 adult and $5 kids 6-11 for URC shows this week also gets you a free second 20-lap modified feature this week. Pit gates open at 5:30, spectator gates open at 6:00 and the first modified feature takes to the track at 8:00.

For more information on racing at Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or visit the track’s website a www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


Practice rosters for the most recent two practice nights at Big Diamond.....
June 15, 2005 - PRACTICE PARTICIPANTS (27)

MODIFIEDS
37X Tommy Sheetz
41c Brian Conrad, Reading

SPORTSMAN
2B Kevin Brady, Millersburg
17 Billy Moyer, Jr., Pine Grove
58 Ken Eckert, Jr., Minersville
113 Jeff Sterner, Bowmanstown
157 Andy Fayash, Jr., Mary D
712 Kevin Beach, Llewellyn

305 SPRINT
88z Zack Martini, Hazleton (305)

MIDGET
57 Mike Krause, Emmaus

ENDUROS
34 Eric Ankenbrandt, Schuylkill Haven
46 Kevin Brown, Pine Grove
175 Robert Hartz, Hamburg

SUPER SPORTSMAN
100 Kevin Yingst, Lebanon

ROADRUNNER
1 Dave Miller, Pine Grove
Big1 Jarred Brennan
8M Ken Eckert, Jr., Minersville
17 Kevin Beach, Llewellyn
22 Tom Hablett, Schuylkill Haven
23B Don Murphy, Minersville
37 Eric Pinkerton
377 Jake Smulley, Phoenix Park
555 Elvin Brennan
721 Jason Sherman

LATE MODELS
2J Jeff Rine, Danville
33 Scott Haus, Hamburg
119 Jim Bernheisel, Jonestown
(also Nick Dickson)

July 12, 2005 – PRACTICE PARTICIPANTS (46)

MODIFIEDS
OO Doug Manmiller
OO Doug Manmiller (Big Block)
Sq1 Bobby Gunther Walsh
7X Tommy Sheetz
W9 Colt Harris
41C Brian Conrad
91 Shawn Reimert
102 Shawn Fitzpatrick

SPORTSMAN
2 Rich Stankiewicz
2B Kevin Brady, Millersburg
3 Cory Renninger and
Ken Renninger & Tyler Carl
13 James Morris, Riegelsville
17R Kevin Nolf
17T Ryan Grim
26 Tom Brennan
27M Ken Eckert Jr.
66 Jason Rivers, Reading
71 Chris James, Mohrsville
72 Ray Woodall, Jr.
73 Darrell Herman & Jeremy Krause, Macungie
95 Freddie Fisher
113 Jeff Sterner, Bowmanstown
157 Andy Fayash, Jr.
712 Kevin Beach
(no #) Dave Lauver, Palmyra

ROADRUNNERS
1 Dave Miller
20 Corey Sechrist
22X Tory Jenkins
37 Eric Pinkerton
66 Kevin Holland
377 Jake Smulley
550 Ryan Olenick
555 Elvin Brennan
712 Jeremy Becker
721 Jason Sherman

ENDUROS
7 Steve Fessler
33 Bryon Sipe, Leesport
33s Eric Swope, Reading
34 Eric Ankenbrandt, Schuylkill Haven
46 Kevin Brown, Pine Grove
175 Robert Hartz, Hamburg

LATE MODEL
4s Dave Shulski, Shamokin

MIDGET
25 Chris Zrinski, Forked River, NJ

360 SPRINT
12 Tim Long

600cc MODIFIED
M1 Tom Martocci
600cc Micro Sprint
87 Charlie Harach


CORRECTED BIG DIAMOND ROADRUNNER POINTS

Elvin Brennan's disqualification on Friday night in the Roadrunner class's 2nd feature was for an illegal carburetor.
Thus, by rule, he loses all points accumulated for the entire season to date.He will also start at the rear of race line-ups for his next four race nights!

CORRECTED
Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts TOT Feat
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS Wins
1 1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 2455 1
2 4 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 2195 1
3 3 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 2130 1
4 5 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 2040 1
5 7 4,377 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 2040 1
5 10 38,8S BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 1955 0
7 9 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 1950 0
8 8 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 1925 0
9 12 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 1830 0
10 11 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 1780 0
11 13 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 1705 0
12 14 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 1640 0
13 6 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 1620 1
14 17 37 ERIC D. PINKERTON TOWER CITY 1430 0
15 15 8 PETE GETTIS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1120 0
16 16 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 1080 0
17 18 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 920 1
18 20 712 JEREMY BECKER (rookie) 910 0
19 19 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 710 0
20 24 1 DAVE MILLER PINE GROVE 540 2
21 21 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415 0
22 21 37 ERIC R. PINKERTON (rookie) TOWER CITY 415 0
22 23 1E CHARLIE ECKERT JR (rookie) 260 0
24 24 22X MIKE ALLAR ORWISBURG 210 0
25 ---- 377 FRAN PURCELL, JR. POTTSVILLE 190 0
26 26 Big1 JASON GENERELLI (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 140 0
27 2 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 0 1


Big Diamond Points - July 16, 2005

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points TOT. Feat. Wins
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS.
1 1 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 2600 2
2 2 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 2500 2
3 4 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 2220 0
4 3 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 2185 2
5 6 1,6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 2140 2
6 5 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 2110 0
7 7 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 2005 0
7 9 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 2005 2
9 8 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 1940 0
10 11 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 1825 0
11 10 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 1785 0
12 12 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 1584 0
13 12 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 1535 0
14 14 5 PAUL KLINE READING 1475 0
15 16 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1450 0
16 15 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 1400 0
17 17 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 1355 0
18 18 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON 1330 0
19 20 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1290 0
20 21 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 1275 0
21 19 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 1170 0
22 22 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 1050 0
23 23 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) 1010 0
24 26 178 NEIL HUBER (rookie) BETHEL 950 0
25 24 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 825 0
26 25 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 820 0
27 27 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 745 0
28 28 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 740 0
29 32 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 695 0
30 29 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 610 0
31 34 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) READING 540 0
32 30 79 AMANDA SPOTTS (rookie) PENNSBURG 515 0
33 31 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 510 0
34 33 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 490 0
35 38 71S SAM SCHAEFFER HAMBURG 425 0
36 35 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 410 0
36 39 123 DAVE DISSINGER MOHRSVILLE 410 0
38 40 31 CHRIS ESPOSITO (rookie) GREEN LANE 405 0
39 36 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON 395 0
40 37 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ(rookie) CHALFONT 315 0
41 41 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG 255 0
41 45 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 255 0
43 42 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 240 0
44 43 117 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 150 0
45 44 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 145 0
46 45 99K DON KEEFER 125 0
46 45 41C BRIAN CONRAD (rookie) 125 0
48 48 19 JORDAN UMBENHAUER (ro) RICHLAND 120 0

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts TOT. Feat.
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. Wins
1 1 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 1800 1
2 2 145 GREG WEILAND POTTSVILLE 1680 0
3 4 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 1615 1
4 3 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 1570 0
5 11 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 1495 1
6 5 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 1470 0
7 7 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 1435 0
7 9 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 1435 0
7 10 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 1435 0
10 5 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 1425 2
11 7 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 1420 0
12 15 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 1400 0
13 17 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 1340 0
14 12 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1315 0
15 13 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 1295 0
16 14 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1280 1
17 16 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 1245 0
18 18 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 1190 0
19 19 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 1185 0
20 20 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 1175 1
21 21 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 1165 0
22 28 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 1140 0
23 22 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 1130 0
24 23 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 1120 0
25 23 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 1090 0
26 26 147 LOUIE MITCHALK SUMMIT HILL 1065 0
27 27 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 1010 0
28 29 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 960 0
29 25 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 950 0
30 30 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 915 1
31 31 2 RICK STANKIEWICZ READING 830 0
31 32 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 830 0
33 33 110 BILL FINNERAN 725 0
34 33 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 605 0
35 35 17T RYAN GRIM READING 480 0
35 36 61 JOHN LEINDECKER (ro) ALLENTOWN 480 0
37 36 113 JEFF STERNER (rookie) BOWMANSTOWN 360 0
38 38 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 285 0
39 39 1M MIKE LYONS CRANBERRY, NJ 280 0
40 40 26X JOHN BUSH (rookie) FLEMINGTON, NJ 245 0
41 43 27M KEN ECKERT, JR. (rookie) MINERSVILLE 240 0
41 43 39B BARRY LIPPENCOTT(ro) UPPER BLACK EDDY 240 0
43 41 00 ADAM HUFF (rookie) ASBURY, NJ 125 0
43 41 12V JOHN DEATRICH, JR PALO ALTO 125 0
45 43 2T MIKE TAYLOR (rookie) MILFORD, NJ 120 0
45 43 22N RAY GARA (rookie) 120 0
45 43 88 MIKE BENT (rookie) ALPHA, NJ 120 0
45 43 3H MARK HERMAN (rookie) 120 0
45 ----- 13 JAMES NORRIS (rookie) 120 0

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts TOT Feat
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS Wins
1 1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 2455 1
2 2 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 2205 1
3 4 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 2195 1
4 3 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 2130 1
5 5 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 2040 1
5 7 4,377 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 2040 1
7 10 38,8S BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 1955 0
8 9 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 1950 0
9 8 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 1925 0
10 12 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 1830 0
11 11 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 1780 0
12 13 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 1705 0
13 14 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 1640 0
14 6 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 1620 1
15 17 37 ERIC D. PINKERTON TOWER CITY 1430 0
16 15 8 PETE GETTIS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1120 0
17 16 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 1080 0
18 18 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 920 1
19 20 712 JEREMY BECKER (rookie) 910 0
20 19 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 710 0
21 24 1 DAVE MILLER PINE GROVE 540 2
22 21 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415 0
22 21 37 ERIC R. PINKERTON (rookie) TOWER CITY 415 0
24 23 1E CHARLIE ECKERT JR (rookie) 260 0
25 24 22X MIKE ALLAR ORWISBURG 210 0
26 ---- 377 FRAN PURCELL, JR. POTTSVILLE 190 0
27 26 Big1 JASON GENERELLI (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 140 0

Division I of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series only.
The highest driver in these point standings represents Big
Diamond in NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I Point
Race. The series points differ from track points and the top
point driver here may not be the track point leader!
THESE ARE NOT THE BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY TRACK POINT STANDINGS
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points
CAR DRIVER HOMETOWN Pts
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 634
2 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 626
3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 560
4 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 552
5 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 546
6 11D, 79 DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 540
7 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 518
7 1, 6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 518
9 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 500
10 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 492
11 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 440
12 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 402
13 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 392
14 5 PAUL KLINE READING 384
15 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 374
16 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 322
17 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 314
17 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 314
19 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 294
20 W9 COLT HARRIS GORDON 292
21 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 286
22 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 272
23 178 NEIL HUBER BETHEL 216
24 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 204
25 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 184
26 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 172
27 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 156
28 808 DENNIS HORVATH 134
29 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) READING 124
30 16 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 122
31 71S SAM SCHAEFFER HAMBURG 116
32 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 108
33 4 JESSE STERLING LEHIGHTON 104
34 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 102
35 31 CHRIS ESPOSITO GREEN LANE 98
36 123 DAVE DISSINGER MOHRSVILLE 94
37 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ CHALFONT 90
38 79 AMANDA SPOTTS PENNSBURG 74
39 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 70
40 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 62
41 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 52
42 17 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 42
43 2 JOHN TSCHUDY BIRDSBORO 40
44 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG 36
45 99K DON KEEFER 32
46 41C BRIAN CONRAD 26

ROC POINT STANDINGS WILL ALSO BE PROVIDED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE


NEXT EVENT(S):
Friday, July 22, 8PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds (2 Features!!! - Full Program plus heldover July 1 Feature), United Racing Club Sprints, Roadrunners.
Fri., July 29, 8 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modified Twin-15s, Roadrunners.
Fri., August 5, 8PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modified Double Feature (full card plus held over 20-lapper), and The Station House Roadrunner Four Crazy 8s.


DUANE HOWARD POWERS TO 2ND BIG DIAMOND NASCAR MODIFIED WIN;
HENDRICKS GETS CAREER 1ST IN SPORTSMAN, MILLER DOUBLES IN ROADRUNNERS


Minersville, PA – July 15 – Duane Howard of Oley, PA was one driver that was thankful that heavy rain and storms stayed to the south of Big Diamond Raceway as he powered to the Norm’s Save Station/MariAl Auto Body/Davis Insurance Bicknell 357 to his second 2005 NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified feature win on Friday’s Checkered Flag Fan Club Night.

In the Sportsman Modifieds, consolation winner Doug Hendricks of Auburn, PA came from the 22nd starting spot to take his first career win in the division. Dave Miller of Pine Grove, PA showed he is back as he recorded his first two roadrunner feature wins of the year, taking the held-over feature from July 1 and then the regularly scheduled feature when apparent winner, Elvin Brennan was disqualified in a post race inspection.

Tom Martocci of Kunkeltown, PA rounded out the five feature program by taking the 15-lap Excel 600cc Modified main event.

Duane Howard came from his 14th starting spot in the Modified feature to overtake Keith Hoffman (Whitehall, PA) on lap 21 of the 25-lapper to win over Hoffman, Rick Laubach (Richlandtown, PA), Meme DeSantis (Temple, PA) and Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing, PA). The second five in order were Jeff Strunk (Bethel, PA), Doug Hoffman (Allentown, PA), Tracy Readinger (Oley, PA), Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville, PA) and Jason Andrews (Parryville, PA).

Bobby Gunther Walsh (Allentown, PA) started on the pole but Josh Biever (Landingville) got a good run off the outside to take the lead in turn one on the start. After a lap was complete, a series on three minor yellow following by a seven car tangle in turn two delayed the action. Back under green Biever continued to lead until he crossed up in turn two on lap four, collecting Walsh before he could correct. That put Jason Andrews on top and he led until Keith Hoffman, who started 12th, powered around the outside in turn to take charge on lap eight. But Duane Howard followed suit, taking second in turn four using the same line.

The next eight laps were classic Big Diamond action as Keith Hoffman continued to fend off every run Howard tried until lap 21 when Howard edged even going into turn three on the outside and overpowered Hoffman off turn four to take command.

Rookie Jarrad Miller of Northampton, PA look like he was on his way to his first career Sportsman Modified win after leading from the drop of the 20-lap feature green. But Doug Hendricks was charging from very deep in the field to take the lead on lap 18. Miller held on for a fine second place finish followed by Brad Brightbill (Shillington, PA), Fred Fisher (Wernersville, PA), Gary Wagner (Womelsdorf, PA), Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg, PA), Greg Weiland (Pottsville, PA), Larry Lippencott (Riegelsville, PA), Jordan Umbenhauer (Richland, PA) and Ray Woodall, Jr. (Pen Argyl, PA).

Tommy Martocci was taking the 600cc Modified event at Big Diamond seriously after having an apparent win in the group’s first Big Diamond appearance taken away with insufficient tire pressures found in a post race inspection. Martocci was at Big Diamond three days before this event and he went right out Friday and took the group’s qualifying heat. He led the opening lap of the 15-lap Main before being overtaken by Kyle Gardner (Wind Gap, PA) and Scott Washburn (Emmaus, PA), Gardner led laps two through none and Washburn was on top for the next three laps. But Martocci regained command on lap 13 to take the win over Washburn, Jason Von Doren (Easton, PA), Nicholas Mady (Milford, PA) and Big Diamond Sportsman regular, Jason Hamilton (Erwinna, PA).

In the roadrunners, Dave Miller started 12th in the held-over 15-lap Georgie Stevenson Memorial feature from July 1. Eric Pinkerton (Tower City, PA) led the opening five laps with Corey Sechrist (Wernersville), Butch Solt (Lehighton, PA) and Joey Hendricks (Auburn, PA) in tow. Pinkerton and Hendricks had problems on lap six allowing Dave Miller charge by the top four to take command. Miller took the win over Solt, Sechrist, Jason Sherman (Williamstown, PA) and Elvin Brennan (Forestville, PA).

In the second main event Andy Fayash, III (Mary-D, PA) started on the pole but Rob Pyle (Downingtown, PA) led the opening lap. Fayash came back to lead laps two and three before Eric Pinkerton went up front. Elvin Brennan took charge on lap six and went on to the apparent win over Miller, who came from 16th starting spot. But Brennan did not pass post race inspection. So the actual pass for the lead occurred behind Brennan on lap 11 when Miller, who has just followed Kevin Beach (Llewellyn, PA) past Pinkerton, went by Beach as well. Beach, who had a tough DNF in the opening feature, was credited with second followed by Joey Hendricks, Jake Smulley (Phoenix Park, PA) and Pinkerton.

This coming Friday’s card will be one of the biggest of the year at Big Diamond Raceway. The United Racing Club sprint cars will be on had for their second appearance of the year, giving the Sportsman a week off. A usual the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds and Roadrunners will be on the card. But, the track has elected to add the Modified 20-lap feature, held-over from July 1, to the card. Thus the impact of the increased admission price for the URC Sprint show will be mitigated for the stock car fans by the addition of the second Modified feature at no extra charge.

One week later, the Sportsman Modifieds return to the three division card with the Modifieds and Roadrunners. To compensate for their off week, the Sportsman will compete in two, 15-lap features.

The Sportsman feature, twice delayed on July 1 and July 6, will be added to the August 5 along with the rescheduled Station House Four Crazy Eight program. The NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series schedule that night will start with the held over Sportsman 20 followed by a complete package of qualifying events for the Modifieds and Sportsman. The Modifieds and the Sportsman will follow with their respective 25 and 20 laps features intertwined with The Four Crazy Eights for the Roadrunners sponsored by The Station House of Llewellyn, PA.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or drop in on the track website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

RESULT SUMMARY - July 15, 2005 - BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY, Minersville (Forestville), PA
NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIEDS
25-Lap Feature - 1. 357 Duane Howard, 2. 1 Keith Hoffman, 3. 14 Rick Laubach, 4. 11 Meme DeSantis, 5. 11D Doug Manmiller, 6. 88 Jeff Strunk, 7. 77 Doug Hoffman, 8. 2T Tracy Readinger, 9. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick, 10. 21T Jason Andrews, 11. 64W John Willman, 12. 29 Ray Swinehart, 13. 5 Paul Kline, 14. 178 Neil Huber, 15. 118 Sean Merkel, 16. W9 Colt Harris, 17. Sq1 Bobby Gunther Walsh, 18. 83B Josh Biever, 19. 57 Bill Gensler, 20. 71S Sam Schaeffer, 21. 17 Ryan Grim, 22. 808 Dennis Horvath, 23. 123 Dave Dissinger, 24. 24H Justin Andrews, 25. 42 Jeff Sechrist, 26. 87 Andy Burkhart, 27. 70D Craig Von Dohren, 28. 31 Chris Esposito.

8-lap Heats – All Qualified, Top 5 Handicapped
Heat 1: 11, Sq1, 70D, 1, 14, 87, w9, 118, 17, 57.
Heat 2: 357, 102, 5, 64w, 31, 123, 29, 178, 808.
Heat 3: 83B, 21T, 2T, 77, 11D, 88, 71s, 24H, 42.

NASCAR SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS
20-Lap Feature - 1. 8JR Doug Hendricks, 2. 917 Jarrad Miller, 3. 19 Brad Brightbill, 4. 95 Fred Fisher, 5. 47 Gary Wagner, 6. 99 Craig Whitmoyer, 7. 145 Greg Weiland, 8. 515 Larry Lippencott, 9. 19U Jordan Umbenhaauer, 10. 72 Ray Woodall, Jr., 11. 3 Luke Wagner, 12. 8 Brad Force, 13. 147 Louie Mitchalk, 14. 144 Don Miller, 15. 10 Lowell Snyder, 16. 64 Andy Miller, 17. 2 Rich Stankiewicz, 18. 71 Chris James, 19. 43 Joe Masiado, 20. 59 Jason Kohler, 21. 157 Andy Fayash, Jr., 22. 25 Ray Deemer, 23. 93 Ryan Moyer, 24. 26 Tom Brennan, 27. 17 Billy Moyer, 28. 15 Jason Hamilton.
Non-Qualifiers: 27M Ken Eckert, Jr., KT3 Cory Renninger, 61 John Leindecker, 110 Bill Finneran, 13 James Norris, 35 Ebby Ridge, 221 Rob Gibson, 30 Carl Felty, 17R Kevin Nolf, 39B Barry Lippencott.

10-lap Heats: 7 Qualify, 5 Handicapped. 10-lap Consi: 5 Qualify.
Heat 1: 157, 93, 71, 2, 19, 145, 10, 8, 35, 27M, 30, KT3.
Heat 2: 15, 917, 95, 47, 515, 144, 72, 147, 221, 8Jr., 39B, 61.
Heat 3: 26, 17, 99, 43, 19u, 64, 25, 59, 17R, 110, 3, 13.
Consi: 8Jr., 3, 59, 8, 147, 27m, KT3, 61, 110, 13, 35, 221, 30, 17R, 39B.

EXCEL 600CC MODIFIEDS
15-Lap Feature - 1. M1 Tommy Martocci, 2. 119 Scott Washburn, 3. 20 Jason Van Doren, 4. 77 Nicholas Mady, 5. 74 Jason Hamilton, 6. X3 Craig Beringer, 7. 88 Paul Tuthill, 8. 8 Barry McDole, 9. 90 Brian Mady, 10. G1 Kyle Gardner, 11. 31, 12. 15 Dave Baldwin.
Heat: M1, G1, 119, 77, 88, 20, 8, X3, 74, 90, 31, 15.

NASCAR ROADRUNNERS
1st 15-Lap Main (Held Over from July 1) - 1. 1 Dave Miller, 2. 8s Butch Solt, 3. 20 Corey Sechrist, 4. 721 Jason Sherman, 5. 555 Elvin Brennan, 6. 22 Tom Hablett, 7. 377 Jake Smulley, 8. 550 Ryan Olenick, 9. 93 Robbie Pyle, 10. 712 Jeremy Becker, 11. 11X Joe Hendricks, 12. 7T7 Andy Fayash, III, 13. 37 Eric Pinkerton, 14. 17 Kevin Beach, 15. 66 Kevin Holland, 16. 5 Dave Schultz, 17. 117 Marty Shappell.

2nd 15-Lap Main - 1. 1 Miller, 2. 17 Beach, 3. 11x Hendricks, 4. 4 Jake Smulley, 5. 37 Pinkerton, 6. 7T7 Fayash, 7. 93 Pyle, 8. 712 Becker, 9. 377 Fran Purcell, Jr., 10. 20 Sechrist, 11. 66 Holland, 12. 8S Solt, 13. 550 Olenick, 14. 721 Sherman, 15. 22 Hablett, 16. 5 Schultz, 17. 555 Brennan by disqualification.


Coming Events:
July 12, 7:15PM – Open Practice Night.
July 15, 8PM – Checkered Flag Fan Club Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunner Double Feature (full card plus held over 15-lapper) and Excel 600cc Modifieds.
July 22, 8PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Double Feature (full card plus held over Modified 20 lapper), United Racing Club Sprints and Roadrunners.
July 29, 8 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modified Twin-15s, Roadrunners.
August 5, 8PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modified Double Feature (full card plus held over 20-lapper), and The Station House Roadrunner Four Crazy 8s (Tentative).


IS HOFFMAN’S BIGGEST NASCAR HURDLE THE BIG DIAMOND WEATHER?

Minersville, PA – July 9 – The weekly NASCAR reports on the Dodge Weekly Series show Big Diamond Raceway’s Doug Hoffman of Allentown, PA deep in the Division I standings. Actually he is right in the hunt for the title but the weather might be as big a hurdle for him to overcome as his fellow Big Diamond competitors and the representatives from the other tracks in the division.

The NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I standings, as of July 6, follow:

OFFICIAL NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES FEATURE DIVISION I POINTS
POS. DRIVER, HOME TRACK STARTS WINS TOP5 TOP10 PTS.
1. PEYTON SELLERS, SOUTH BOSTON S’WAY 16 8 10 15 974
2. FRANK DEINY JR., MOTOR MILE SPEEDWAY 15 6 11 13 908
3. TIM KARRICK, LAKESIDE SPEEDWAY 15 5 12 14 906
4. TIM KARRICK, LINN COUNTY SPEEDWAY 15 5 12 14 906
5. TIM BROWN, BOWMAN GRAY STADIUM 13 0 7 13 728
6. TOMMY CHERRY, LANGLEY SPEEDWAY 11 2 8 11 702
7. TRAVIS SWAIM, CARAWAY SPEEDWAY 13 2 12 12 688
8. CLAY DALE, LANIER NATIONAL SPEEDWAY 11 6 10 11 652
9. RICKY BILDERBACK, ROCKFORD SPEEDWAY 12 2 12 12 582
10. DOUG HOFFMAN, BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY 9 2 8 8 568
11. NICK PARKER, ROCKY MOUNTAIN R’WAY 8 0 6 7 474
12. KEN HEADEN, GREENVILLE-PICKENS S’WAY 9 5 7 9 466
13. SHANE HARDING, EVERGREEN SPEEDWAY 9 5 6 8 448
14. ROBERT TURNER, ACE SPEEDWAY 8 2 7 8 396
15. BILL RODGERS, BEECH RIDGE MTR. S’WAY 7 0 4 7 374
16. STEVE WHITENER, JAX RACEWAYS 4 4 4 4 200

As you can see Doug Hoffman is ranked tenth out of the sixteen representatives from each track in the division based on total points. But there is another factor that NASCAR uses to even the playing field between drivers from southern tracks or able to run multiple tracks to earn points and drivers from tracks further to the north like Big Diamond. Only the drivers’ best 16 finishes will be used so drivers like Peyton Sellers will not be adding 50 or 60 points per week. The only way his point total grows is if he records a finish better than one of those already used to calculate his point total. So point total changes, if they occur for those drivers, will likely be of the single digit or teen magnitude.

Below are the standings based on each driver’s points per races started:

A DIFFERENT LOOK AT NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES FEATURE DIVISION – DIVISION I
POS. DRIVER, HOME TRACK STARTS WINS TOP5 TOP10 PTS PTS/START
1. Tommy Cherry, Langley Speedway 11 2 8 11 702 63.818
2. Doug Hoffman, Big Diamond Raceway 9 2 8 8 568 63.111
3. Peyton Sellers, South Boston Speedway 16 8 10 15 974 60.875
4. Frank Deiny, Jr., Motor Mile Speedway 15 6 11 13 908 60.533
5. Tim Karrick, Lakeside Speedway 15 5 12 14 906 60.400
5. Tim Karrick, Linn County Speedway 15 5 12 14 906 60.400
7. Clay Dale, Lanier National Speedway 11 6 10 11 652 59.273
8. Nick Parker, Rocky Mountain Raceway 8 0 6 7 474 59.250
9. Tim Brown, Bowman Gray Stadium 13 0 7 13 728 56.000
10. Bill Rodgers, Beech Ridge Motor Speedway 7 0 4 7 374 53.429
11. Travis Swaim, Caraway Speedway 13 2 12 12 688 52.923
12. Ken Headen, Greenville-Pickens Speedway 9 5 7 9 466 51.777
13. Steve Whitener, Jax Raceways 4 4 4 4 200 50.000
14. Shane Harding, Evergreen Speedway 9 5 6 8 448 49.777
15. Robert Turner, Ace Speedway 8 2 7 8 396 49.500
16. Ricky Bilderback, Rockford Speedway 12 2 12 12 582 48.500

This shows Doug Hoffman right in the thick of the battle. Obviously this by no means indicates where the driver will finish either. Those who exceed the 16 race base will begin to replace some of their poorer finishes with better finishes and incrbease their point averages show here. Just how much is anyone’s guess.

Hoffman’s first hurdle will be to compete in 16 events as the summer weather in Schuylkill Haven is prone to thunderstorms and that means rainouts. If the track gets 16 races or more in the books for the Modifieds, then Doug should be in the hunt to be one of the first, if not the first, former regional champion in NASCAR’s past system, to become a divisional champion.

But what if Hoffman does not maintain the highest NDWS point total at the track?

Well, here are where the other drivers with the ten highest NDWS point totals stand:

NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points
STARTS DRIVER HOMETOWN Pts - Pts/Start
1 9 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 568 – 63.111
2 9 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 564 – 62.667
3 8* JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 492 – 61.500
4 9 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 512 – 56.889
5 9 CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 496 – 55.111
6 9 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 492 – 54.667
7  9 DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 478 - 53.111
8 9 KEITH HOFFMAN  WHITEHALL450 – 50.000
9 9 JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 442 – 49.111
10 9 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 434 – 48.222

* - Jeff Strunk did not qualify one feature at Big Diamond this year due to engine failure in qualifying so he is credited with only 8 starts in the NDWS system

So Duane Howard and Jeff Strunk, by looking at Points per Start, are also in position to challenge for the regional title of they can gain more NDWS points than Doug Hoffman. But in Jeff Strunk’s case, he needs one more start than Doug or Duane, as he did not start one feature at Big Diamond thus far.

Their quest to get Modified features and good finishes in the books at Big Diamond Raceway continues this week on Friday, July 15. The Checkered Flan Fan Club will be on hand and the scheduled NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified, Sportsman Modified, Roadruunner and Excel 600cc Modifieds will now have the roadrunner feature from July 1 added to the card. CFFC Members get a $2 discount at the main gate with the presentation of their membership cards.

It all gets stepped up still another notch on July 22 as the United Racing Club Sprints are already on the card with the NASCAR Modifieds and Roadrunners. But for the stalwart Modified fans, the extra cost for the sprinters will now also provide an increased stock car value as the Modified feature from July 1 will be run prior to the full program for the Modifieds, URC Sprints and Roadrunners. This will be a big night in the Modified NASCAR track and NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I point races.

The July 22 show is on the same weekend as NASCAR Nextel Cup action at nearby Pocono Raceway and once again, Bob Dillner from SPEED Channel, plans to make his dirt track debut at Big Diamond behind the wheel of the Jason Neidlinger #B1 roadrunner.

Then, on July 29, it’s a full three division card with the Sportsman Modifieds going in a Twin-15 features that carry guaranteed starting spots in the Hoover Chevrolet GM Performance Parts Sportsman 50.

Competitive racing starts each racing night at 8 PM. For more information on Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or visit the track website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

And do not forget, the next open practice night at Big Diamond is Tuesday, July 12, starting at 7:15. The event is free to spectators in the stands with a $20 admission fee for the pit area. No memberships are required and the practice is open to all divisions.


Coming Events:
July 12, 7:15PM – Open Practice Night.
July 15, 8PM – Checkered Flag Fan Club Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunner Double Feature (full card plus held over 15-lapper) and Excel 600cc Modifieds.
July 22, 8PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Double Feature (full card plus held over Modified 20 lapper), United Racing Club Sprints and Roadrunners.
July 29, 8 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modified Twin-15s, Roadrunners.
August 5, 8PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modified Double Feature (full card plus held over 20-lapper), and The Station House Roadrunner Four Crazy 8s.


TWO DAYS OF HEAVY RAIN KNOCKS OUT BIG DIAMOND ACTION

Minersville, PA – July 8 – Heavy Thursday afternoon thunderstorms followed by the remnants of Hurricane Cindy on Friday forced the flooded Big Diamond Raceway to cancel the racing card scheduled for Friday evening, July 8.

Friday’s racing card, which was to feature seven feature events including The Station House four Crazy-Eights for the roadrunners as well as the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds and Sportsman Modifieds in full cards plus the held over Sportsman feature from July 1, will now tentatively be run on August 5.

On July 15, the Checkered Flan Fan club will be on hand and the scheduled NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified, Sportsman Modified, Roadruunner and Excel 600cc Modifieds will now have the roadrunner feature from July 1 added to the card.

It all gets stepped up still another notch on July 22 as the United Racing Club Sprints are already on the card with the NASCAR Modifieds and Roadrunners. But for the stalwart Modified fans, the extra cost for the sprinters will now also provide an increased stock car value as the Modified feature from July 1 will be run prior to the full program for the Modifieds, URC Sprints and Roadrunners.

The July 22 show is on the same weekend as NASCAR Nextel Cup action at nearby Pocono Raceway and once again, Bob Dillner from SPEED Channel, plans to make his dirt track debut at Big Diamond behind the wheel of the Jason Neidlinger #B1 roadrunner.

Then, on July 29, it’s a full three division card with the Sportsman Modifieds going in a Twin-15 features that carry guaranteed starting spots in the Hoover Chevrolet GM Performance Parts Sportsman 50.

Competitive racing starts each racing night at 8 PM. For more information on Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or visit the track website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

And do not forget, the next open practice night at Big Diamond is Tuesday, July 12, starting at 7:15. The event is free to spectators in the stands with a $20 admission fee for the pit area. No memberships are required and the practice is open to all divisions.


Coming Events:
July 8, 8PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modified Double Feature (full card plus held over 20-lapper), and The Station House Roadrunner Four Crazy 8s.
July 12, 7:15PM – Open Practice Night.
July 15, 8PM – Checkered Flag Fan Club Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunner Double Feature (full card plus held over 15-lapper) and Excel 600cc Modifieds.
July 22, 8PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Double Feature (full card plus held over Modified 20 lapper), United Racing Club Sprints and Roadrunners.


LAST WEEK’S STORM CAUSES AFFORDABLE JULY SPECIALS AT BIG DIAMOND

Minersville, PA – July 5 – An isolated thunderstorm in Central Pennsylvania blew up into a major weather nightmare at Big Diamond Raceway last Friday night in the midst of the annual Georgie Stevenson Memorial. But the result is a series of big events at Big Diamond with no added cost to the already planned admission prices for those events.

This Friday’s racing card at Big Diamond was already set to be special for the roadrunners as The Station House in nearby Llewellyn, PA brings back the entertaining four Crazy-Eights for the highly competitive, entry level division class. The four roadrunner main events are part of a three division card which also features the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds and Sportsman Modifieds slated to carry a $13 adult admission price.

But now this event is even bigger as the Sportsman Modifieds feature that was rain delayed from last Friday will kick off the card which will now feature a total of seven feature events for that $13 adult admission price. The two sportsman features could be critical it determining the outcome of the season-long championship point race for the division.

Past champion, Craig Whitmoyer of Hamburg, PA, has apparently hit his stride and moved into the NASCAR Sportsman Modified point lead with a 90 point margin over Greg Weiland of Pottsville, PA. Defending champion Tom Brennan of Pottsville, PA, is 135 points behind Whitmoyer and Gary Wagner of Womelsdorf, PA, is 200 points back. A solid night of racing by Whitmoyer could put his challengers into a deep hole to climb out of the make a run at the title, but problems could not only throw the top four into a log jam at the top, but Dodge pilot Luke Wagner of Grantville, PA, and Jason Hamilton of Erwinna, PA, could jump right back into it even though they are now tied for fifth, 280 behind Whitmoyer.

A pair of Sportsman wins would yield 600 points and considerably improve a drivers title hopes. But a poor finish in the first main and failure to qualify for the second feature would provide only 245 points and put title hopes on life support.

The impact of those numbers is doubled for the roadrunners with four feature events on tap. Kevin Beach (Llewellyn, PA) currently leads the Roadrunner point standings with 2020 points followed by Elvin Brennan (Forestville, PA) with 1830; Kevin Holland (Pine Grove, PA) at 1810, Jason Sherman (Williamstown, PA) with 1790; Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven, PA) at 1670; Kirby Schlappich (Temple, AP) with 1620 and Jake Smulley (Phoenix Park, PA) at 1580. Each of these top seven drivers has one NASCAR feature win along with non-regular Marty Shappell (Pottsville, PA). [Hablett also won a non-point roadrunner event last month at Big Diamond.]

The Station House’s four features will shake up the points and should yield a repeat winner on two.

Last but certainly not least, any Modified field that includes established superstars Doug Hoffman, Keith Hoffman, Duane Howard, Jeff Strunk, Rick Laubach, Craig Von Dohren, Ray Swinehart, Doug Manmiller and Meme DeSantis with new breed stars in the making, like Sean Merkel, John Willman, Shawn Fitzpatrick, Andy Burkhart and others, is sure to impress. All of these starts are expected to be on hand for modified action on July 8 as well.

But this just kicks off the July specials.

On July 15, the Checkered Flan Fan club will be on hand and the scheduled NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified, Sportsman Modified, Roadruunner and Excel 600cc Modifieds will now have the roadrunner feature from July 1 added to the card.

It all gets stepped up still another notch on July 22 as the United Racing Club Sprints are already on the card with the NASCAR Modifieds and Roadrunners. But for the stalwart Modified fans, the extra cost for the sprinters will now also provide an increased value as well as the Modified feature from July 1 will be run prior to the full program for the Modifieds, URC Sprints and Roadrunners.

Then, on July 29, it’s a full three division card with the Sportsman Modifieds going in a Twin-15 features that carry guaranteed starting spots in the Hoover Chevrolet GM Performance Parts Sportsman 50.

Competitive racing starts each racing night at 8 PM. For more information on Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or visit the track website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

And do not forget, the next open practice night at Big Diamond is Tuesday, July 12, starting at 7:15.


Big Diamond Point Standings - 7/4

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points TOT. Feat. Wins
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS.
1 1 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 2390 2
2 2 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 2200 1
3 3 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 2060 2
4 5 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 2000 0
5 4 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 1945 0
6 7 1,6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 1860 2
7 6 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 1770 0
8 8 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 1750 0
9 9 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 1740 2
10 9 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 1660 0
11 11 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 1655 0
12 14 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 1385 0
12 12 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 1325 0
14 13 5 PAUL KLINE READING 1315 0
15 16 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 1275 0
16 15 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1270 0
17 17 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 1220 0
18 18 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON 1185 0
19 21 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 1170 0
20 20 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1165 0
21 21 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 1135 0
22 19 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 1050 0
23 23 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) 885 0
24 24 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 825 0
25 25 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 820 0
26 27 178 NEIL HUBER (rookie) BETHEL 795 0
27 28 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 745 0
28 26 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 740 0
29 29 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 610 0
30 34 79 AMANDA SPOTTS (rookie) PENNSBURG 515 0
31 30 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 510 0
32 31 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 495 0
33 32 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 490 0
34 36 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) READING 415 0
35 33 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 410 0
36 34 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON 395 0
37 41 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ(rookie) CHALFONT 315 0
38 41 71S SAM SCHAEFFER HAMBURG 300 0
39 40 123 DAVE DISSINGER MOHRSVILLE 285 0
40 37 31 CHRIS ESPOSITO (rookie) GREEN LANE 280 0
41 38 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG 255 0
42 39 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 240 0
43 41 117 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 150 0
44 44 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 145 0
45 45 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 125 0
45 45 99K DON KEEFER 125 0
45 ---- 41C BRIAN CONRAD (rookie) 125 0
48 47 19 JORDAN UMBENHAUER (ro) RICHLAND 120 0

These are points for Big Diamond modified drivers for
Division I of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series only.
The highest driver in these point standings represents Big
Diamond in NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I Point
Race. The series points differ from track points and the top
point driver here may not be the track point leader!
THESE ARE NOT THE BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY TRACK POINT STANDINGS
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points
CAR DRIVER HOMETOWN Pts
1 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 568
2 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 564
2 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 512
4 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 496
5 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 492
5 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 492
7 11D, 79 DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 478
8 1, 6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 450
9 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 442
10 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 434
11 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 418
12 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 360
13 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 356
14 5 PAUL KLINE READING 338
15 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 322
16 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 310
17 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 294
18 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 292
19 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 262
19 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 262
21 W9 COLT HARRIS GORDON 252
22 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 234
23 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 204
24 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 172
24 178 NEIL HUBER BETHEL 172

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts TOT. Feat.
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. Wins
1 1 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 1580 1
2 2 145 GREG WEILAND POTTSVILLE 1470 0
3 3 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 1445 0
4 4 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 1380 1
5 5 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 1300 0
5 6 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 1300 2
7 11 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 1255 0
7 13 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 1255 0
9 8 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 1245 0
10 7 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 1235 0
11 9 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 1195 0
12 10 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1190 0
13 20 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 1165 0
14 21 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1160 1
15 18 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 1135 0
16 12 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 1120 0
17 15 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 1090 0
18 14 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 1070 0
19 15 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 1060 0
20 15 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 1055 1
21 18 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 1045 0
22 22 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 980 0
23 24 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 965 0
23 25 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 965 0
25 23 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 950 0
26 27 147 LOUIE MITCHALK SUMMIT HILL 905 0
27 28 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 875 0
28 29 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 860 0
29 30 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 840 0
30 26 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 790 0
31 35 2 RICK STANKIEWICZ READING 690 0
32 31 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 685 0
33 32 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 605 0
33 32 110 BILL FINNERAN 605 0
35 34 17T RYAN GRIM READING 480 0
36 36 61 JOHN LEINDECKER (ro) ALLENTOWN 360 0
36 40 113 JEFF STERNER (rookie) BOWMANSTOWN 360 0
38 37 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 285 0
39 38 1M MIKE LYONS CRANBERRY, NJ 280 0
40 39 26X JOHN BUSH (rookie) FLEMINGTON, NJ 245 0
41 41 00 ADAM HUFF (rookie) ASBURY, NJ 125 0
41 ---- 12V JOHN DEATRICH, JR PALO ALTO 125 0
43 42 2T MIKE TAYLOR (rookie) MILFORD, NJ 120 0
43 42 22N RAY GARA (rookie) 120 0
43 42 88 MIKE BENT (rookie) ALPHA, NJ 120 0
43 42 3H MARK HERMAN (rookie) 120 0
43 ---- 27M KEN ECKERT, JR. (rookie) MINERSVILLE 120 0
43 ---- 39B BARRY LIPPENCOTT(ro) UPPER BLACK EDDY 120 0

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts TOT Feat
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS Wins
1 1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 2020 1
2 3 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 1830 1
3 4 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 1810 1
4 2 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 1790 1
5 8 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1670 1
6 5 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 1620 1
7 10 4,377 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 1580 1
8 6 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 1565 0
9 7 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 1515 0
10 9 38,8S BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 1510 0
11 11 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 1490 0
12 12 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 1385 0
13 14 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 1305 0
14 15 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 1255 0
15 13 8 PETE GETTIS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1120 0
16 16 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 1080 0
17 17 37 ERIC D. PINKERTON TOWER CITY 1035 0
18 18 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 780 1
19 19 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 710 0
20 21 712 JEREMY BECKER (rookie) 530 0
21 20 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415 0
21 22 37 ERIC R. PINKERTON (rookie) TOWER CITY 415 0
23 25 1E CHARLIE ECKERT JR (rookie) 260 0
24 23 22X MIKE ALLAR ORWISBURG 210 0
24 ---- 1 DAVE MILLER PINE GROVE 210 0
26 24 Big1 JASON GENERELLI (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 140 0


Races Around The Bases Charity Softball Tournament & Picnic
Benefit for the Georgie Stevenson Memorial Foundation


POTTSVILLE, PA (June 30, 2005) - George and Alice Stevenson have dedicated their lives to the memorial foundation named for their son Georgie who passed away at the young age of 12. For the past two years, George has not been in the best of health himself so it is now time for everyone to pull together and show George that his efforts have not gone unnoticed.

Pit Rat Promotions & Marketing presents Races Around The Bases - an all-day family event with fun for everyone! At 12pm, The Diamonds In The Ruff will get things started with fun and games for the children. Waterballoon contests, volleyball, relay races, tug-of-war and all kinds of fun events with lots of prizes for everyone. There will also be a giant slide for the kids.

The Diamonds In The Ruff are also selling tickets for a 1991 Corvette Targa Coupe to be chanced off at the Pottsville Car Cruise on Sunday, August 14th. Tickets are $2 each or 3 for $5 and benefit the Georgie Stevenson Memorial Foundation.

Then at 2pm, Races Around The Bases will kick off with a drivers vs. drivers softball game followed by pit crews vs. pit crews. The winners of those games advance to the championship game – drivers vs. pit crews. The event is open to drivers and crews from any track. Entry forms for drivers and crews can be picked up at Big Diamond Raceway or by emailing jody@pitratlive.com.

There will also be plenty of door prizes and prizes to be raffled off plus music, a dunk tank and lots of great food so bring the entire family out and make it a day to remember.

All drivers, crews, families and fans are welcome and urged to attend. This event should be a priority for the sake of the Georgie Stevenson Foundation.

When: Sunday, August 7, 2005

Where: New Philadelphia Little League (James S. Clark) field/picnic grove, Rt. 209 (Valley St.) New Philadelphia, PA (Between Pottsville and Tamaqua)

Cost: $12 per person or $15 at the gate (kids 13 and under are free) **Get your tickets by July 15th – only $10 each**

Food, soda and entertainment included. **BYOB**

Tickets available at D&W Speed and Custom in Port Carbon, Carpet Warehouse in New Philadelphia, Hadesty’s in Pottsville, Margaret’s Kwik Snack in Ashland, Hoffman’s Speed & Performance, J&L Speed Supplies and at Big Diamond’s 50/50 ticket stand.

Tickets or more information is also available by calling Jody Kuperavage @ 570-277-6733 or Tammy Harris @ 570-875-2230. You can also email jody@pitratlive.com.

Fun for the entire family from 12pm-8pm - DON’T MISS IT!


Coming Events:  July 8, 8PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modified Double Feature (full card PLUS held over 20-lapper), and The Station House Roadrunner Four Crazy 8s.
July 12, 7:15PM – Open Practice Night.
July 15, 8PM – CHECKERED FLAG FAN CLUB NIGHT. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunner Double Feature (full card plus held over 15-lapper) and Excel 600cc Modifieds.
July 22, 8PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Double Feature (full card plus held over Modified 20 lapper), United Racing Club Sprints and Roadrunners.


LAUBACH FINDS HIS WAY BACK TO BIG DIAMOND WINNER’S CIRCLE,
RAIN STOPS REMAINDER STEVENSON MEMORIAL CARD

Minersville, PA – July 1, 2005 – Rick Laubach of Richlandtown, PA captured his second NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified win of the season at Big Diamond on Friday night prior to heavy rain and thunderstorms that ripped through Schuylkill County around 9:45. The storm forced the remaining features on the Georgie Stevenson Memorial to be postponed to be included as part of racing programs schedule later this year but the fireworks display did go on after the storm subsided for the diehard fans that rode out the storm.

The remaining Modified 20-lap feature, 20-lap Sportsman Modified feature and 15-lap Roadrunner main will be made up over the next three weeks at Big Diamond Raceway.

Rick Laubach won the 2005 season opener at Big Diamond but struggle through some tough luck until he broke through again this week in the Dick Biever-owned, Jack’s Auto Supply/Reiley and Sterner Auto Sales #14. Following Laubach at the finish were defending champion and current point leader Doug Hoffman (Allentown), Keith Hoffman (Whitehall), Jeff Strunk (Bethel), and John Willman (Birdsboro). Filling the second five finishing positions were Jeff Sechrist (Wernersville), Andy Burkhart (Temple), last week’s winner Duane Howard (Oley), Craig Von Dohren (Oley), and Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville).

Bobby Gunther Walsh (Allentown) started on the pole for the first NASCAR Modified 20-lap feature as part of the Georgie Stevenson Memorial Twin-20s, but young Andy Burkhart charged off the outside to take the lead exiting turn two on the opening lap after the first start was aborted as the W9 on Colt Harris (Gordon) lost power. Dave Dissinger (Mohrsville) had trouble with his 123 before lap two could be completed causing the first of only three yellows in the event. On the restart John Willman moved the Keller 64W from fourth to second behind Burkhart while Laubach got by teammate Josh Biever (Landingville) to take fourth.

Rick Schaffer (Woxall) got turned in turn two with three laps in and on the restart it was Willman powering around the outside of Burkhart in turn two to lead lap four. Willman got away by three car lengths before Laubach moved by Walsh and Burkhart by lap six for second. Laubach was flying and caught Willman to cross the start/finish line just a bumper length behind Willman on lap seven. Laubach completed the inside pass in turns one and two to lead lap eight and begin pulling away from the field.

Laubach, Willman and Burkhart ran 1-2-3 but the strong runners from deep in the field were fiercely battle with one another as they charged toward the front. At the mid-race make Jeff Sechrist was fourth but right behind were Keith Hoffman, Jeff Strunk, Doug Hoffman, Craig Von Dohren, Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville) and Duane Howard. Keith Hoffman powered the Johnny Rae, Abbi Electric #1 by both Sechrist and Burkhart on lap 11. Doug Hoffman overtook both Strunk and Burkhart on lap 14 as Keith Hoffman took second from Willman.

Laubach has a big lead and was maintaining that margin in spite of some close calls with cars he was lapping. As the white flag flew Doug Hoffman took second with the Eisenhard, Kerry Hertzog Auto Sales/Wood Side Wood Products #77 from Willman when the yellow flew for a turn four tangle between Sean Merkel and Bobby Gunther Walsh.

It appeared to be a nightmare for Laubach as three lapped cars and a straightaway lead were wiped out and Keith Hoffman was restarting right on his tail. But Laubach knew what to do and the Biever 14 had the necessary power to lead through turn one while Doug Hoffman challenged his brother. Doug gained second in turn one but Laubach was gone before the elder Hoffman was able to mount a challenge.

“I knew I could run with those guys, I do it all the time both here and in New Jersey,” commented Laubach. “Dick Biever is great and does all he can to give me the equipment I need and this crew does it all. I was confident I could hold the lead, but I lost a race at Bridgeport this year on a late restart so I wanted to make sure I did not make any mistakes,” commented Laubach.

“I had more trouble before the late yellow with the lapped cars,” continued Laubach. “I know slower cars are to move to the inside when they see the flag and they tell them to move to the inside on the (in car) radio. But I wish they not tell them anything and let me deal with them. That almost cost me the win tonight.”

The was a brief intermission as the tradition of drivers mingling with the fans to collect funds for the Stevenson Family Charities took place but as the roadrunners were on their feature pace lap, the rains arrived.

“We were watching the weather radar and things looked good,” shared race director Jeff Gromis. “There were only two storms on the radar and a small one passed to our north at 9 PM and actually dried up and disappeared at Interstate 81. There was another storm that was coming our way but it weakened as it approached Schuylkill County with yellows turning to light green on the radar and the size of the storm appearing to shrink. If it rained, it looked like we’d be able to deal with it.

“But you never know about summer storms and as it moved into Tremont to our west, it just blew up into yellows and reds on the radar. We knew we were in trouble but before we could even get the roadrunners going, the storm hit. There was no way we could get back to racing but then we found out the fireworks technicians were already committed to firing their display and could not postpone it, so after 30-minutes of heavy rain and lightning, we were went ahead and set off the display for the fans that remained in the parking lot.”

After qualifying races are complete, rain checks are normally not honored. In this case all qualifying races and one feature were complete before the rain-out, so rain checks are void. The feature events will be added to future race dates on the Big Diamond schedule and the Sunday rain date for this week will not be used.

The Sportsman feature will be added to the July 8 card. So that means the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series schedule that night will start with the held over Sportsman 20 followed by a complete package of qualifying events for the Modifieds and Sportsman. The Modifieds and the Sportsman will follow with their respective 25 and 20 laps features intertwined with The Four Crazy Eights for the Roadrunners sponsored by The Station House of Llewellyn, PA.

The rain-delayed Roadrunner 15 will be added to the July 15 program on Checkered Flag Fan Club Night. That night will now see full racing cards for the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, the NASCAR Sportsman, the Excel 600cc Modifieds and two Roadrunner features.

Finally the second Modified 20 from the Stevenson Memorial will be added to a big Pocono NASCAR weekend on July 22. That night already includes full programs for the Modifieds, the United Racing Club Sprints and the Roadrunners.

With all the held-over events being accounted for, there will be one more program mixed with these three events. On Tuesday, July 12 at 7:15PM, there will be an Open Practice session for any and all divisions of racing.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or drop in on the track website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY RACING SUMMARY – JULY 1, 2005
Georgie Stevenson Memorial
NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIEDS
1st 20-lap Feature: 1. 14 Rick Laubach, 2. 77 Doug Hoffman, 3. 1 Keith Hoffman, 4. 88 Jeff Strunk, 5. 64W John Willman, 6. 42 Jeff Sechrist, 7. 87 Andy Burkhart, 8. 357 Duane Howard, 9. 70D Craig Von Dohren, 10. 29 Ray Swinehart, 11. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick, 12. 02 Greg Hummelhanz, 13. 6SR Rick Schaffer, 14. 83B Josh Biever, 15. 71S Sam Schaeffer, 16. 79 Doug Manmiller, 17. 21T Jason Andrews, 18. 24H Justin Andrews, 19. 85 Bobby Forsythe, 20. 178 Neil Huber, 21. Sq1 Bobby Gunther Walsh, 22. 118 Sean Merkel, 23. 41C Brian Conrad, 24. 17 Ryan Grim, 25. 123 Dave Dissinger, 26. w9 Colt Harris. (As only 27 cars were on hand and 28 cars normally start in the modified feature, Doug Manmiller was able to switch cars and start last in Amanda Spotts’ 79 for the feature as no consolation was run after Manmiller blew the engine in his Dinatale 11D.)

2nd 20-lap Feature – Rain-delayed to July 22.

8-lap Qualifying Heats
Heat 1: 29, 14, 77, 1, 83B, 85, 123, 79 (Spotts), 17.
Heat 2: 11D (Manmiller), 70D, 42, Sq1, 6JR, 118, 02, 178, W9.
Heat 3: 64W, 357, 87, 88, 102, 24H, 21T, 71S, 41C.
July 22 20-lap Feature Line-up: 02, 102, 29, 70d, 357, 87, 42, 64w, 88, 1, 77, 14, 6SR, 83B, 71s, 79 (Manmiller), 21T, 24H, 85, 178, Sq1, 118, 41C, 17, 123, W9, 11D (Spotts).

NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS
20-lap Feature – Rain Delayed to July 8
10-lap Qualifying Heats and Consolations
Heat 1: 93 Ryan Moyer, 17R Kevin Nolf, 15 Jason Hamilton, 47 Gary Wagner, Jr., 17 Billy Moyer, Jr., 72 Ray Woodall, Jr., 27M Ken Eckert, Jr., 110 Bill Finneran, 59 Jason Kohler, 2 Rich Stankiewicz.
Heat 2: 8JR Doug Hendricks, 3 Luke Wagner, 221 Rob Gibson, 99 Craig Whitmoyer, 19U Jordan Umbenhauer, 26 Tom Brennan, 144 Don Miller, 61 John Leindecker, 35 Ebby Ridge, 38B Barry Lippencott.
Heat 3: 43 Joe Masiado, 95 Freddie Fisher, 19 Brad Brightbill, 147 Louie Mitchalk, 145 Greg Weiland, 64 Andy Miller, 917 Jarrad Miller, 8 Brad Force, 12V John Deatrich, Jr., 113 Jeff Sterner, 30 Carl Felty.
Stevenson Memorial Guaranteed Starter’s Award – KT3 Cory Renninger.
Consi: 8, 59, 2, 12V. DNQ: 35, 110, 113, 30, 39B, 61.
July 8 20-lap Feature Line-Up: 17R, 147, KT3, 95, 17, 43, 93, 8Jr, 19U, 3, 19, 47, 145, 15, 99, 221, 72, 26, 64, 27M, 144, 8, 59, 2, 12V. Alt. Order: 35, 110, 113, 30, 39B, 61.

NASCAR ROADRUNNERS
15-Lap Feature – Rain Delayed to July 15
6-Lap Heats
Heat 1: 8S Butch Solt, 117 Marty Shappell, 721 Jason Sherman, 22 Tom Hablett, 66 Kevin Holland, 20 Corey Sechrist, 17 Kevin Beach, 93 Rob Pyle.
Heat 2: 377 Jake Smulley, 37 Eric Pinkerton, 1 Dave Miller, 555 Elvin Brennan, 550 Ryan Olenick, 712 Jeremy Becker, 11X Joe Hendricks, 5 Dave Schultz.
July 15 Feature Line-up: 37, 20, 712, 8s, 11x, 550, 721, 377, 66, 555, 17, 1, 22, 117, 93, 5.


GREG HODNETT THRILLS BIG DIAMOND CROWD WITH SPEEDWEEK WIN;
CRAIG WHITMOYER TOPS RACE OF CHAMPIONS SPORTSMAN 40 FIELD


Minersville, PA – June 28, 2005 - Greg Hodnett of Memphis, Tennessee simply does not lose at Big Diamond Raceway. On Tuesday night Hodnett captured the $4,000 feature win at the Minersville oval as part of the 2005 Cindy Rowe Auto Glass PA Sprint Speedweek, It was Hodnett’s fifth Big Diamond win in six starts at the track and in eight 410 Sprint races in the track’s history.
Greg Hodnett and his Hamilton Motorsports 77 sprinter were followed across the finish line by Stevie Smith (New Oxford), Mark Smith (Newville), Fred Rahmer (Salfordville), Blane Heimbach (Selinsgrove), T. J. Stutts (Liverpool), Keith Kauffman (Mifflintown), Mike Erdley (Herndon), Brian Leppo (Spring Grove) and Lance Dewease (Fayetteville).
In the Race of Champions Dirt Sportsman Tour 40, which was also on the card, Craig Whitmoyer of Hamburg, PA took the $1,000 first prize. He was trailed at the finish by Arnie Slade (Mt. Upton, NY), who had never seen Big Diamond before Tuesday night. Jason Hamilton (Erwinna) was next in third with Brad Brightbill (Shillington) and Tom Brennan (Pottsville). Completing the top ten were Jimmy Horton, IV (Neshanic Station, NJ), Mike Lyons (Monroe Township, NJ), Kyle Weiss (Hamburg), Brian Decker (Susquehanna) and Doug Hendricks (Auburn).
Hodnett seemed unsure as to why he has had such success at Big Diamond in the 410 Sprints. It was his first win at the track behind the wheel of Al Hamilton car and it was the first win ever for the legendary car owner at Big Diamond. Hodnett’s previous four wins came in the Bob Stewart, Apple Motorsports 12 Team which has quite a record of it’s own with wins six total wins at Diamond including single wins by current NASCAR Busch Grand National driver Tyler Walker of Los Angeles, California and Fred Rahmer.
“I just really like this track,” he shared. “It is hard to say why we go so well. The track is racy and fast. It is just good to get another win here.”
Keith Kauffman, the only other Big Diamond 410 Sprint winner, set fast time at 14.234 seconds and drew six for the inversion for the feature line-up. When top six timers Lucas Wolfe (Mechanicsburg) and Mike Erdley were unable to regain their times through qualifying races, eighth fast timer, Blane Heimbach started the 30-lapper on the pole.
Heimbach jumped out to a quick lead at the drop of the green. The yellow flew only once for a spinning Trevor Lewis (Upper Black Eddy) on the front stretch on lap 4. Heimbach continued to lead but Mark Smith was dogging him in the Tower City-based ZEMCO 1. On lap 7 Smith took the top spot with a turn three, outside pass. Hodnett, got by Heimbach on lap 12 and the chase was on.
Mark Smith slowly seemed to begin to lose his some bite on the inside line and Hodnett continued to charge on the outside. The margin slowly began to shrink and Hodnett was able to draw even with the leader. Finally on lap 17, Hodnett put the 77 in front and he never looked back. Stevie Smith made a late charge to take second on lap 25 but was unable to mount a threat to Hodnett and received no help to do so as the race went green the rest of the distance.
Sprint heat winners were Cliff Brian (Ephrata), Alan Cole (Berwick) and Fred Rahmer while Mike Erdley captured the B-Main win. There were 29 cars on hand with Keith Kauffman setting fast time, at 14.234 seconds, over Erdley - 14.237, Lucas Wolfe - 14.237, TJ Stutts - 14.282; Greg Hodnett - 14.376, Stevie Smith – 14.392, Mark Smith – 14.443, Blane Heimbach – 14.456, Rahmer – 14.483, Brian Leppo – 14.510. Jason Johnson (Eunice, LA) – 14.532 and Lance Dewease – 14.586.
In the RoC Sportsman 40, Mike Lyons (Monroe Township, NJ) got the jump on pole sitter Brad Grim (Coplay) to take the early feature lead. Grim, Arnie Slade and Danny Creeden (Middletown, NY) battled for second while Craig Whitmoyer charged from eighth starting spot to take fifth from Shaun Walker (Masonville, NY) fifth by the completion of lap two. Whitmoyer secured fourth from Creeden on lap three and the yellow flew for the first time with five laps complete for Jordan Umbenhauer (Richland).
On the restart Whitmoyer climbed to second and Creeden also got by Slade for fourth just behind Grim. Jessica Zemken (Sprakers, NY) and Joe Masiado (Easton) caused a yellow on lap 9 and a pair of yellow followed a lap later, first for the stalled car of Ricky Rutt (Phillipsburg, NJ) and then for a tangle involving Luke Wagner (Grantville), Fred Fisher (Wernersville) and Frank Doty (Middletown, NY). Back under green and Mike Lyons gave Whitmoyer and opening and the Big Diamond veteran moved under Lyons in turns three and four to take command on lap 11.
Lyons, Creeden and Slade battled for second after Grim dropped out under the Wagner-Fisher-Doty yellow. Walker, seventh starting Jason Hamilton and Brad Brightbill moved to fourth, fifth and sixth as they overtook Creeden on lap 14. No one was able to run off and hide or catch the rear of the field through 134 straight green laps and the next change occurred when Shaun Walker dropped out during a lap 24 yellow for Rutt and Andy Miller (Schuylkill Haven).At this point Brightbill moved into fifth but there was pressure from behind from Tom Brennan, Gene Stravinsky (New Egypt, NJ) and Jimmy Horton, IV, who started 18th.
The yellow flew again on lap 29 as Brent Boyer (Bloomsburg), Zemken and Jeff Geiges (Lawrenceburg, NJ) tangled in turn four. On this restart Lyons jumped the cushion in turns one and two, costing him six positions and moving Slade, Hamilton, Brightbill, Brennan, Horton and Kyle Weiss (Hamburg), who started 24th, up behind Whitmoyer. That was the last major position change of the race as the top three stayed close but no pass was completed.
RoC Sportsman heat winners from the 43-car field were Jason Hamilton, Brad Grim, Arnie Slade, and Brad Brightbill. Consolation event winners were Jordan Umbenhauer, and Frank Doty. The Guaranteed Starters race for non-qualifiers from the 1st RoC race this year at Penn Can was won by Brent Boyer.
As Craig Whitmoyer already earned a guaranteed starting spot for the Hoover Chevrolet GM Performance Parts Sportsman 50 invader Arnie Slade was awarded a Guaranteed Starter’s Spot in the event scheduled for Friday, September 2 that will pay $2,000 to win.
An overturned tandem tractor trailer closed Route 61, a main artery from the Reading and Allentown areas to Big Diamond, and forced the racing program to be delayed 45 minutes as officials, competitors and fans were caught in the closure and the detour delays.
Racing continues at Big Diamond Raceway this Friday, July 1, at 8 PM to kickoff the July 4th weekend with the 26th Annual Georgie Stevenson Memorial. The NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds will go in two, 20-lap feature events while the Sportsman Modifieds have a 20-lapper and the Roadrunners go in a 15-lap main. A full bank of qualifying events will precede the features. Also a special fireworks display will be provided that fans have told us is one of the best they have seen in recent years at area race tracks or in Schuylkill County.
For more information on Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or drop in on the track website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

RACE RESULTS - DATE: JUNE 28, 2004
BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY, Minersville (Forestville), PA
CINDY ROWE PA SPRINT SPEEDWEEK 410 SPRINT 30-LAP FEATURE, $4000 TO WIN
1. 77 Greg Hodnett, Memphis, TN ($4000); 2. 19 Stevie Smith, New Oxford; 3. 1 Mark Smith, Newville; 4. 88H Fred Rahmer, Salfordville; 5. 12c Blane Heimbach, Selinsgrove; 6. 11t T.J. Stutts, Liverpool; 7. 7 Keith Kauffman, Mifflintown; 8. 11 Mike Erdley, Herndon; 9. 12 Brian Leppo, Spring Grove; 10. 25 Lance Dewease, Fayetteville; 11. U1 Chad Layton, Harrisburg; 12. 22 Jason Johnson, Eunice, LA; 13. 35 Alan Cole, Berwick; 14. 13 Cliff Brian, Ephrata; 15. 32 Brook Weibley, York Springs; 16. 7C Dave Cordier, Jr., Shoemakersville; 17. 13X Bill Brian, Jr., Ephrata; 18. 69 Michael Carber; 19. 93 Glenndon Forsythe, East Berlin; 20. 10N Niki Young, East Berlin; 21. 2H Dave Hahn, Green Lane; 22. 56 Trevor Lewis, Upper Black Eddy; 23. 21 Kevin Nouse; 24. 3B Randy Baughman. Non-Qualifiers: 4X Neil Petock, 5W Lucas Wolfe, 17B Mark Freeland, 88Z Zach Martini, 83 Scott Lutz.

TIME TRIALS: 1) 7 Kauffman 14.234 sec; 2) 11 Erdley, 14.237; 3) 5W Wolfe 14.237; 4) 11T Stutts 14.282; 5) 77 Hodnett - 14.376; 6) 19 S. Smith – 14.392, 7) 1 M. Smith 14.443; 8) 12c Heimbach 14.456, 9) 88H Rahmer 14.483, 10) 12 Leppo 14.510; 11) 22 Johnson 14.586; 12) 25 Dewease 14.586; 13) 13 C. Brian 14.592; 14) 35 Cole 14.628; 15) U1 Layton 14.660; 16) 32 Weibley 14.695; 17) 21 Nouse 14.830; 18) 2H Hahn 14.832; 19) 17B Freeland 14.944; 20) 7c Cordier 14.967; 21) 13X B. Brian 15.008; 22) 56 Lewis 15,033; 23) 69 Carber 15.069; 24) 3B Baughman 15.133; 25) 10N Young 15.192; 26) 93 Forsythe 15.198; 27) 83 Lutz 15.228; 28) 2X Petock 15.620; 29) 88z Martini 17.170.

HEATS – 10-laps
Heat 1: 13, 32, 1, 12, 11T, 7, 56, 10n, 4X, 17B. Time: 2:30.881.
Heat 2: 35, 22, 77, 21, 12c, 7c, 11, 69, 93, 88Z. Time: 2:33.198
Heat 3: 88H, U1, 25, 19, 13x, 2H, 3B, 5W, 83. No Time.
B Main: 11, 56, 10n, 69, 3B, 93, 4X, 5W, 17B, 88z, 83. N/T.

RACE OF CHAMPIONS DIRT SPORTSMAN - 40-LAP FEATURE, $1000 TO WIN
1. 99 Craig Whitmoyer, Hamburg, ($1,000); 2. 22B Arnie Slade, Mt. Upton, NY; 3. 15 Jason Hamilton, Erwinna; 4. 19x Brad Brightbill, Shillington; 5. 26 Tom Brennan, Pottsville; 6. 43 Jimmy Horton, IV, Neshanic Station, NJ; 7. 1M Mike Lyons, Monroe Twp., NJ; 8. 21K Kyle Weiss, Hamburg; 9. 9B Brian Decker, Susquehanna; 10. 8JR Doug Hendricks, Auburn; 11. 43M Joe Masiado, Easton; 12. 611 Brad Grim, Coplay; 13. 16X Danny Creeden, Middletown, NY; 14. 71D Frank Doty, Middletown, NY; 15. 98 Tim Apgar, Milford, NJ; 16. 64 Andy Miller, Schuylkill Haven; 17. 7A Gene Stravinsky, New Egypt, NJ; 18. 19 Brent Boyer, Bloomsburg; 19. 77J Jeff Geiges, Lawrenceburg, NJ; 20 1Z Jessica Zemkin, Sprakers, NJ; 21. 21 Shaun Walker, Masonville, NY; 22. 57 Ricky Rutt, Phillipsburg, NJ; 23. 145 Greg Weiland, Pottsville; 24. 3KT Cory Renninger, Llewellyn; 25. 3 Luke Wagner, Grantville; 26. 95 Fred Fisher, Wernersville; 27. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer.

Non-Qualifiers: 16 David Bush/Accord, NY, 25 Ray Deemer/Phillipsburg, NJ, 17D Mike Loney/Taylor, PA, 2T Michael Taylor/Milford, NJ, 17 Billy Moyer Jr./Pine Grove, PA, 39 Tom Cremer/Sinking Spring, PA, 9K Mike Ketcham/Otisville, NY, 3H Marc Herman/Windsor, NJ, 2 Rich Stankiewicz/Laureldale, PA, 61 John Leindecker/Allentown, PA, 157 Andy Fayash Jr./Mary-D, PA, 6 John Stangle/Neshanic Station, NJ, 8 Rich Scagliotta/Bound Brook, NJ, 044 Louis Farina/Philadelphia, PA, 17T Ryan Grim/Laurys Station, PA, 71J Chris James/Mohrsville, PA.

All races below 10-laps:
Non-Qualifiers Guaranteed Starters Spot Race: 19, 43, 99, 16, 39, 84, 57, 25, 17D. Time: 3:10.55
Heat 1: 15, 26, 16X, 7A, 12, 19U, 43M, 145, 61, 17D, 9K. No Time.
Heat 2: 611, 1M, 95, 8, 43, 17, 6, 16, 3H, 044, 71J. N/T
Heat 3: 22B, 99, 77J, 57, 98, 2T, 157, 2, 39, KT3, 25. N/T
Heat 4: 19B, 21, 3, 19, 64, 9B, 71D, 8, 17T, 21K. Time: 3:15.596
Consi 1: 19U, 43M, 145*, 16, 17D, 17, 9K, 3H, 61, , 6, 004, 71J. N/T
Consi 2: 71D, 21K, 9B*, 25, 2T, 39, KT3*, 2, 157, 8, 17T. N/T
* - Guaranteed Starters added to feature.


Big Diamond Points Through and Including June 24

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points TOT. Wins
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS.
1 1 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 2110 2
2 2 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 2000 1
3 4 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 1870 2
4 3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 1765
5 5 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 1750
6 6 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 1625
7 8 1,6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 1595 2
8 7 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 1580
9 9 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 1440 1
9 12 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 1440
11 10 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 1420
12 11 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 1325
13 13 5 PAUL KLINE READING 1315
14 14 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 1260
15 17 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1130
16 18 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 1065
17 20 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 1065
18 19 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON 1060
19 14 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 1050
20 21 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1030
21 16 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 1010
21 22 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 1010
23 23 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) 885
24 25 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 825
25 24 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 820
26 26 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 740
27 28 178 NEIL HUBER (rookie) BETHEL 670
28 30 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 615
29 27 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 610
30 29 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 510
31 31 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 495
32 32 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 490
33 33 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 410
34 34 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON 395
34 34 79 AMANDA SPOTTS (rookie) PENNSBURG 395
36 36 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) READING 290
37 37 31 CHRIS ESPOSITO (rookie) GREEN LANE 280
38 44 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG 255
39 38 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 240
40 ---- 123 DAVE DISSINGER MOHRSVILLE 160
41 39 117 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 150
41 39 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ(rookie) CHALFONT 150
41 39 71S SAM SCHAEFFER HAMBURG 150
44 42 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 145
45 43 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 125
45 ---- 99K DON KEEFER 125
47 44 19 JORDAN UMBENHAUER (ro) RICHLAND 120

These are points for Big Diamond modified drivers for Division I of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series only. The
highest driver in these point standings represents Big Diamond in NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I Point
Race. The series points differ from track points and the top point driver here may not be the track point leader!
THESE ARE NOT THE BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY TRACK POINT STANDINGS
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points
CAR DRIVER HOMETOWN Total Points
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 508
2 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 500
3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 460
4 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 442
4 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 442
6 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 438
7 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 428
8 1 , 6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 384
9 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 380
10 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 364
11 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 358
12 5 PAUL KLINE READING 338
13 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 332
14 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 312
15 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 310
16 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 294
17 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 276
18 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 234
19 W9 COLT HARRIS GORDON 230
20 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 226
21 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 224
22 7X , 37X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 204
22 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 204
24 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 172
25 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 156

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts TOT. Feat.
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. Wins
1 1 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 1580 1
2 2 145 GREG WEILAND POTTSVILLE 1470
3 3 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 1445
4 4 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 1380 1
5 5 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 1300
5 6 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 1300 2
7 11 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 1255
7 13 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 1255
9 8 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 1245
10 7 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 1235
11 9 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 1195
12 10 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1190
13 20 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 1165
14 21 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1160 1
15 18 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 1135
16 12 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 1120
17 15 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 1090
18 14 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 1070
19 15 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 1060
20 15 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 1055 1
21 18 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 1045
22 22 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 980
23 24 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 965
23 25 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 965
25 23 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 950
26 27 147 LOUIE MITCHALK SUMMIT HILL 905
27 28 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 875
28 29 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 860
29 30 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 840
30 26 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 790 1
31 35 2 RICK STANKIEWICZ READING 690
32 31 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 685
33 32 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 605
33 32 110 BILL FINNERAN 605
35 34 17T RYAN GRIM READING 480
36 36 61 JOHN LEINDECKER (ro) ALLENTOWN 360
36 40 113 JEFF STERNER (rookie) BOWMANSTOWN 360
38 37 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 285
39 38 1M MIKE LYONS CRANBERRY, NJ 280
40 39 26X JOHN BUSH (rookie) FLEMINGTON, NJ 245
41 41 00 ADAM HUFF (rookie) ASBURY, NJ 125
41 ---- 12V JOHN DEATRICH, JR PALO ALTO 125
43 42 2T MIKE TAYLOR (rookie) MILFORD, NJ 120
43 42 22N RAY GARA (rookie) 120
43 42 88 MIKE BENT (rookie) ALPHA, NJ 120
43 42 3H MARK HERMAN (rookie) 120
43 ---- 27M KEN ECKERT, JR. (rookie) MINERSVILLE 120
43 ---- 39B BARRY LIPPENCOTT(ro) UPPER BLACK EDDY 120

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts TOT Feat
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS Wins
1 1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 2020 1
2 3 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 1830 1
3 4 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 1810 1
4 2 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 1790 1
5 8 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1670 1
6 5 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 1620 1
7 10 4,377 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 1580 1
8 6 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 1565
9 7 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 1515
10 9 38,8S BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 1510
11 11 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 1490
12 12 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 1385
13 14 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 1305
14 15 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 1255
15 13 8 PETE GETTIS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1120
16 16 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 1080
17 17 37 ERIC D. PINKERTON TOWER CITY 1035
18 18 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 780 1
19 19 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 710
20 21 712 JEREMY BECKER (rookie) 530
21 20 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415
21 22 37 ERIC R. PINKERTON (rook) TOWER CITY 415
23 25 1E CHARLIE ECKERT JR (rook) 260
24 23 22X MIKE ALLAR ORWISBURG 210
24 ---- 1 DAVE MILLER PINE GROVE 210
26 24 Big1 JASON GENERELLI (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 140


COMING EVENTS:  Tues., June 28, 7:30PM- Cindy Rowe Auto Glass PA 410 Sprint Speedweek Sprints & Race of Champions Sportsman 40. (Hoover Sportsman 50 Qualifier). Also 1983 & 1984 Hall of Fame Night
Fri., July 1, 8PM- 26th Annual Georgie Stevenson Memorial NASCAR Modified Twin-20s, Sportsman Modifieds (Hoover Sportsman 50 Qualifier), Roadrunners & FIREWORKS. [Raindate - Sun., July 3, 7:30PM.]
Fri., July 8, 8PM- NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Mods & The Station House Roadrunner 4 Crazy 8s.
Tue., July 12, 7:15PM- Open Practice (Raindate - Wednesday, July 13)
Fri., July 15, 8PM- Checkered Flag Fan Club Night. NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, 600cc Modifieds, Roadrunners. ($2 off to CFFC Members to spectator area.)


DUANE HOWARD TAKES 1ST BIG DIAMOND ‘05 NASCAR MODIFIED WIN;
GIBSON TAKES 1ST CAREER SPORTSMAN MAIN, HABLETT REPEATS IN ROADRUNNERS


Minersville, PA – June 24, 2005 – Duane Howard of Oley, PA has used consistency in his return to Big Diamond in ’05 to be in the thick of the race for the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series point championship and he stepped it up Friday night at Big Diamond Raceway to take his first feature win of the year in the Norm Hansell-owned, Norm’s Save Station/MariAl Auto Body/Davis Insurance 357 Bicknell Modified.

A pair of Schuylkill Haven residents also found the Hoover Chevrolet Winner’s Circle on Friday night. Rob Gibson took his first career Sportsman-Modified feature win while Tom Hablett repeated in the Roadrunner 15-lapper.

Duane Howard started 13th in the 27-car Modified 25-lap feature and took the lead from Jeff Sechrist (Wernersville) on lap 15 to take the win over his chief rival for the Modified track championship, Doug Hoffman (Allentown). Craig Von Dohren (Oley) finished third followed by Sechrist, Jeff Strunk (Bethel), Keith Hoffman (Whitehall), early leader Sean Merkel (Gilbertsville), John Willman (Birdsboro), Rick Laubach (Richlandtown) and Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing).

Bobby Gunther Walsh (Allentown) led the opening lap of the Modified 25-lapper but Sean Merkel went on top on lap two with an outside move off turn two. Jeff Sechrist followed Walsh into second and the two racers battled side-by-side for several laps before Sechrist got credit for taking the lead on lap 8 and for three more laps until Sechrist secured the position. Duane Howard got by Merkel on lap 10. He caught Sechrist a lap later but it took him four more laps until he finally moved around Jeff on lap 15 in turn two.

It was a night for the new wave at Big Diamond in the Sportsman as Rob Gibson was the third of three feature race leaders along with Ray Deemer, Jr. (Phillipsburg, NJ) and Joe Masiado (Easton), all who were looking for their first win. Gibson took charge on lap 14 and took that first win over Masiado, Ray Woodall, Jr. (Pen Argyl), Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg), Rich Stankiewicz (Reading), Brad Brightbill (Shillington), Brad Force (Sellersville), Tom Brennan (Pottsville), Gary Wagner, Jr. (Womelsdorf), and Greg Weiland (Pottsville).

Deemer led the first two laps of the 20-lapper but Masiado was on his tail from the opening lap. Following a red laps with two complete when Jason Kohler (Mertztown) rolled his 59 without injury, while battling for fourth with Rich Stankiewicz and Gibson. Masiado took the lead on lap three with an inside turn two pass of Deemer following the restart. Stankiewicz took second on lap six from Deemer but Gibson went two second on lap ten. Four laps later Gibson powered around the outside of leader Masiado to go on to his first career win in the Pioneer Pole Buildings 221.

Tom Hablett put his Buck Rubs 22 into the lead on lap two from Downingtown’s Rob Pyle and never looked back in the roadrunner feature. Dave Schultz (Llewellyn) took second trailed across the line by Jake Smulley (Phoenix Park), Kevin Beach (Llewellyn) and Kevin Holland (Pine Grove).

Qualifying heat winners were John Willman, Jeff Sechrist, and Duane Howard in the Modifieds; Luke Wagner (Hershey), Ray Masiado and Lowell Snyder (Upper Black Eddy) in the Sportsman; and Tom Hablett and Joe Hendricks (Auburn) in the Roadrunners. Freddie Fisher (Wernersville) took the Sportsman consolation.

Action returns to Big Diamond Raceway in short order as the Cindy Rowe Auto Glass 410 Sprint Speedweek runs the third event of their week long series at Big Diamond on Tuesday night, June 28 at 7:30 pm. Among the expected stars are past Big Diamond Modified champion and nationally recognized Fred Rahmer (Salfordville); the newest driver for the leading Big Diamond sprint car winning Apple Motorsports Team, Brian Leppo (York); past Big Diamond winners Keith Kauffman (Mifflintown) and Greg Hodnett (Memphis, TN); the driver of the Tower City-based Zemco Team, Mark Smith (Newville); former Big D modified winner, Don Kreitz, Jr. (Fritztown); past Big D 358 Sprint winner Chad Layton (Harrisburg); Jason Johnson (Eunice, LA): Lance Dewease (Fayetteville) and others.

But if it was not enough to have the headliners of the winged sprint warriors on hand, the second event on the Race of Champions Dirt Sportsman Tour will be on the Tuesday card as well. Big Diamond best will take on the best RoC has to offer. Brian Decker of Susquehanna, PA is the current RoC Dirt Sportsman point leader followed by Arnie Slade (Mt. Upton, NY), Kevin Bates (Lake Ariel, PA), and Big Diamond’s Jason Hamilton (Erwinna, PA) and Kyle Weiss (Hamburg, PA). Other RoC stars expected, according to RoC officials, are Jessica Zemken (Sprakers, PA), Danny Creeden (Middletown, PA), Mike Ketcham (Otisville, NY), Rick Raisner (Easton, PA), Brad Grim (Coplay, PA), Jeremy Holt (Kirkwood, NY), Rick Mill (New Windsor, NY), Jeff Geiges (Lawrenceville, NJ) and many others.

After the field is set for the 40, from the non-qualifiers, the highest two drivers in Big Diamond NASCAR points will be added to the starting field.

The Sportsman 40 winner will earn $1,000 as well as a guaranteed starter’s spot in Big Diamond’s Hoover Chevrolet / GM Performance Parts 50 on September 2 which pays $2000-to-win.

For more information on action at Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or visit the track’s website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com. Questions on the ROC Tour should be directed to their offices at (607) 238-0432. Their website, which includes entry forms, is at www.rocdirt.com.

RACE RESULTS - JUNE 24, 2005 BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY, Minersville (Forestville), PA
NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIEDS - 25-lap Feature, $2000 to Win: 1. 357 Duane Howard; 2. 77 Doug Hoffman; 3. 70d Craig Von Dohren; 4. 42 Jeff Sechrist; 5. 88 Jeff Strunk; 6. 1 Keith Hoffman; 7. 118 Sean Merkel; 8. 64W John Willman; 9. 14 Rick Laubach; 10. 11D Doug Manmiller; 11. 5 Paul Kline; 12. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick; 13. 123 Dave Dissinger; 14. 83B Josh Biever; 15. 72 Jeff Ebersole; 16. 24H Justin Andrews; 17. 808 Dennis Horvath; 18. 21K Kyle Weiss; 19. Sq1 Bobby Gunther Walsh; 20. 99K Don Keefer; 21. W9 Colt Harris; 22. 29 Ray Swinehart; 23. 11 Meme DeSantis; 24. 178 Neil Huber; 25. 37X Tommy Sheetz, Jr.; 26. 87 Andy Burkhart; 27. 21T Jason Andrews. Non-Qualifiers: 85 Bobby Forsythe and 6 Dale Roth.
8-Lap Heats (In Modifieds and Sportsman Modifieds - if 10 or fewer calls in all heat line-ups in division, heats will be 8 laps, if at least one heat has 11 cars in initial line-up, heats will be 10 laps):
Heat 1: 64w, 72, 70d, 77, 5, 24H, 102, 37x, 85, 99K.
Heat 2: 42, 21t, 29, 11d, 14, 83b, 178, 21k, 6, 808.
Heat 3: 357, 118, 88, Sq1, 87, W9, 11, 123, 1.

NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS - 20-lap Feature, $600-to –Win: 1. 221 Rob Gibson, 2. 43 Joe Masiado, 3. 72 Ray Woodall, Jr., 4. 99 Craig Whitmoyer, 5. 2 Rich Stankiewicz, 6. 19 Brad Brightbill, 7. 8 Brad Force, 8. 26 Tom Brennan, 9. 47 Gary Wagner, Jr., 10. 145 Greg Weiland, 11. 15 Jason Hamilton, 12. 25 Ray Deemer, Jr., 13. 144 Don Miller, 14. 95 Freddie Fisher, 15. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer, 16. 10 Lowell Snyder, 17. 3 Luke Wagner, 18. 147 Louie Mitchalk, 19. 17R Kevin Nolf, 20. 93 Ryan Moyer, 21. 157 Andy Fayash, Jr., 22. 71 Chris James, 23. 515 Larry Lippencott, 24. 12V John Deatrich, Jr., 25. 59 Jason Kohler, 26. 8Jr. Doug Hendricks.
Non-Qualifiers: KT3 Cory Renninger (scratched putting Don Miller in to feature), 27M Ken Eckert, Jr., 113 Jeff Sterner, 30 Carl Felty, 39B Barry Lippencott, 917 Jarrad Miller, 35 Ebby Ridge, 73 Darrell Herman.

10-lap Heats:
Heat 1: 3, 221, 8, KT3, 2, 145, 19u, 95, 113, 30, 144.
Heat 2: 43, 72, 93, 19, 17R, 71, 99, 27M, 39B, 47, 35, 73.
Heat 3: 10, 25, 59, 147, 26, 12V, 157, 8Jr, 917, 515, 15.
Consolation: 95, 47, 8Jr, 515, 15, 144, 27M, 113, 30, 39B, 917, 35, 73.

NASCAR ROADRUNNERS - 15-lap Feature - $100 to Win: 1. 22 Tom Hablett, 2. 4 Dave Schultz, 3. 377 Jake Smulley, 4. 17 Kevin Beach, 5. 66 Kevin Holland, 6. 550 Elvin Brennan (replace Olenick in this car & scratched his 555), 7. 1 Dave Miller, 8. 93 Rob Pyle, 9. 20 Corey Sechrist, 10. 712 Jeremy Becker, 11. 8S Butch Solt, 12. 721 Jason Sherman, 13. 7T7 Andy Fayash, III, 14. 39 Phil Levering, 15. 37 Eric R. Pinkerton, 16. 11 Kirby Schlappich, 17. 11X Joe Hendricks, 18. 1E Charlie Eckert, Jr., 19. 555 Ryan Olenick (swapped with Brennan).
Heat 1: 22, 20, 5, 11, 39, 7T7, 66, 1M, 721, 1E.
Heat 2: 11x, 377, 550 (Olenick), 712, 17, 93, 555 (Brennan), 8s, 37.


STREAMING STORMS PREVENT BIG DIAMOND FRIDAY (06/17) RACING;
SECOND OF THREE STORMS BETWEEN 4PM & 8 PM CAUSES CANCELLATION


Minersville, PA – (June 17, 2005) – Racing was just not supposed to occur at Big Diamond Raceway on Friday night in spite of the forecast of only “isolated, spotty showers.” A series of storms streamed down from Western New York across Schuylkill County and ‘isolated’ their rain over Forestville, Minersville and Pottsville while track preparations were in progress at Big Diamond, starting at around 4 PM.

The Friday card featuring the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners plus the Excel 600cc Modifieds on Craftsman Night was canceled.

The open track appeared to be salvageable after the first storm and track officials were encouraged by the fact that the ‘isolated shower’ passed early and the racing card would be spared. But before the surface could dry sufficiently to even consider any wheel packing, a second heavier storm hit at 6 PM, wiping out any thoughts of racing at Big Diamond on Friday. Between the time officials canceled the event and the scheduled starting time another shower hit the track.

The storm surprised race teams, fans and officials as all were on their way to the track, particularly from the south.

“I couldn’t believe there was a rainout,” commented driver Doug Manmiller from his cell phone while on his way to the track from Reading. “I heard there was a rain out and Tom (Sportsman driver, Tom Brennan) confirmed it was certainly raining in Pottsville. The track phone rang busy and I needed to hear it from someone else to make sure!”

“I spoke to the track before I left my home in Lancaster and they told me of the 4 o’clock storm,” shared Race Director Jeff Gromis, “so I figured we were clear for racing. I was up above Lebanon when I received a call that the races were canceled. It was clear where I was and I could not believe them. They actually allowed me to hear the rain hammering the metal sides of the building over the phone to prove it to me.”

Racing will return to the Big Diamond Raceway oval this coming Friday, June 24th, featuring the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners. It will be the final turn up prior to big events for the Modifieds and Sportsman Modifieds at Big Diamond.

On Tuesday night, July 28, the Cindy Rowe Auto Glass PA 410 Sprint Speedweek stops at Big Diamond Raceway for the only 410 Sprint event at the track this season. Also on the card will be the Race of Champions Sportsman 40 featuring the best sportsman drivers from the tri-state area. Racing starts with sprint time-trials at 7:30PM. The schedule calls for a tight, solid racing card with a targeted 10PM checkered flag on the $4,000-to-win 410 Sprint 30 and a 10:45 completion of the $1000-to-win Sportsman Modified 50.

Three nights later, on Friday, July 1, the George Stevenson Family brings the Georgie Stevenson Memorial to Big Diamond with the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds running Twin-20-lap features, the Sportsman competing in a 20-lap main for a guaranteed starter’s spot in the Hoover Chevrolet / GM Performance Parts Sportsman 50 and the Roadrunners in a 15-lap main.

For information on Big Diamond Raceway you can call (570) 544-6434 or you can view the track’s website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


BIG DIAMOND POINTS 6/11

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points TOT. Wins
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS.
1 1 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 1830 2
2 2 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 1700
3 3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 1640
4 4 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 1605 2
5 5 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 1515
6 6 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 1445
7 7 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 1415
8 8 1,6SR KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 1375 2
9 9 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 1250 1
10 10 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 1220
11 10 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 1200
2 14 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 1190
13 12 5 PAUL KLINE READING 1145
14 15 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 1050
14 16 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 1050
16 13 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 1010
17 17 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 1005
18 18 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 940
19 20 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON 935
20 19 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 910
21 21 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 885
22 22 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 880
23 23 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) 745
24 25 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 695
25 26 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 675
26 28 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 620
27 24 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 610
28 31 178 NEIL HUBER (rookie) BETHEL 545
29 27 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 510
30 28 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 495
31 34 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 495
32 30 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 490
33 32 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 410
34 33 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON 395
34 35 79 AMANDA SPOTTS (rookie) PENNSBURG 395
36 41 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) READING 290
37 40 31 CHRIS ESPOSITO (rookie) GREEN LANE 280
38 36 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 240
39 37 117 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 150
39 37 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ(rookie) CHALFONT 150
39 ---- 71S SAM SCHAEFFER HAMBURG 150
42 39 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 145
43 41 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 125
44 43 19 JORDAN UMBENHAUER (ro) RICHLAND 120
44 43 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG 120

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts TOT. Feat.
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. Wins
1 2 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 1320 1
2 2 145 GREG WEILAND POTTSVILLE 1290
3 1 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 1245
4 4 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 1190 1
5 5 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 1160
6 12 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 1130 2
7 7 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 1110
8 12 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 1095
9 18 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 1070
10 7 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1065
11 9 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 1045
12 9 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 995
13 11 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 990
14 14 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 950
15 15 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 935
15 15 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 935 1
15 17 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 935
18 6 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 915
18 20 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 915
20 19 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 885
21 22 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 860
22 20 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 835
23 22 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 830
24 24 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 805
25 26 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 800
26 25 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 790 1
27 29 147 LOUIE MITCHALK SUMMIT HILL 770
28 27 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 750
29 31 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 740
30 28 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 720
31 30 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 685
32 32 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 605
32 32 110 BILL FINNERAN 605
34 32 17T RYAN GRIM READING 480
35 35 2 RICK STANKIEWICZ READING 455
36 38 61 JOHN LEINDECKER (ro) ALLENTOWN 360
37 40 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 285
38 36 1M MIKE LYONS CRANBERRY, NJ 280
39 37 26X JOHN BUSH (rookie) FLEMINGTON, NJ 245
40 38 113 JEFF STERNER (rookie) BOWMANSTOWN 240
41 41 00 ADAM HUFF (rookie) ASBURY, NJ 125
42 42 2T MIKE TAYLOR (rookie) MILFORD, NJ 120
42 42 22N RAY GARA (rookie) 120
42 42 88 MIKE BENT (rookie) ALPHA, NJ 120
42 42 3H MARK HERMAN (rookie) 120

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts TOT Feat
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS Wins
1 1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 1770 1
2 2 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 1625 1
3 3 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 1610 1
4 4 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 1575 1
5 6 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 1475 1
6 4 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 1435
7 10 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 1375
8 7 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1370
9 9 38,8S BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 1340
10 8 4 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 1315 1
11 11 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 1210
12 12 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 1195
13 13 8 PETE GETTIS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1120
14 15 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 1105
15 14 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 1095
16 16 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 1080
17 17 37 ERIC D. PINKERTON TOWER CITY 1035
18 18 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 780 1
19 20 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 555
20 19 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415
21 22 712 JEREMY BECKER (rookie) 350
22 23 37 ERIC R. PINKERTON (rook) TOWER CITY 265
23 21 22X MIKE ALLAR ORWISBURG 210
24 ---- Big1 JASON GENERELLI (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 140
25 ---- 1 CHARLIE ECKERT JR (rook) 125

These are points for Big Diamond modified drivers for Division I of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series only. The
highest driver in these point standings represents Big Diamond in NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I Point
Race. The series points differ from track points and the top point driver here may not be the track point leader!
THESE ARE NOT THE BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY TRACK POINT STANDINGS
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points
CAR DRIVER HOMETOWN TotPts
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 438
2 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 432
2 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 432
4 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 394
5 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 386
6 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 376
7 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 366
8 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 324
8 1 KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 324
10 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 310
11 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 294
12 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 294
13 5 PAUL KLINE READING 288
14 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 284
15 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 276
16 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 274
17 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 268
18 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 212
19 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 202
20 W9 COLT HARRIS GORDON 200
21 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 186
2 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 182
23 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 172
24 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 170
25 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 128
26 16 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 122
27 178 NEIL HUBER BETHEL 116
28 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 114
29 4 JESSE STERLING LEHIGHTON 104
30 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 102
31 31 CHRIS ESPOSITO GREEN LANE 76
32 79 AMANDA SPOTTS PENNSBURG 74
32 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 74
34 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 70
34 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) READING 70
36 808 DENNIS HORVATH 68
37 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 52
38 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ CHALFONT 42
38 17 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 42
38 71S SAM SCHAEFFER HAMBURG 42
41 2 JOHN TSCHUDY BIRDSBORO 40
42 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 28


NEXT EVENT(S):
Wed., June 15, 7:15 PM – OPEN PRACTICE. No Membership Required. All Divisions Welcome.
Fri., June 17, 8 PM – CRAFTSMAN NIGHT. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners, 600cc Modifieds.

VON DOHREN TAKES 2ND BIG DIAMOND DODGE NIGHT MODIFIED WIN;
(HAMILTON REPEATS IN SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS, SHAPPELL TOPS ROADRUNNERS)


Minersville, PA – June 10, 2005 – Craig Von Dohren of Oley, PA powered the Devine Transport 70D to his second win of the season at Big Diamond Raceway in NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified action as part of Friday’s DODGE Night. Jason Hamilton of Erwinna, PA returned to capture the 17-lap Sportsman Modified feature shortened by time limit while Marty Shappell of Pottsville, PA topped the Roadrunner 15.

Craig Von Dohren started eleventh and took the lead from early race leader Bobby Gunther Walsh (Allentown, PA) on lap 5. Walsh started second out overtook pole sitter Dale Roth (Newmanstown) on the backstretch on lap one. Von Dohren got by Roth on lap three with Josh Biever (Landingville) and Meme DeSantis (Temple) following. One lap later Biever had problems with DeSantis making contact sending both to the pits.

After Von Dohren took charge, he was pressured through lap 12 by Jeff Strunk (Bethel, PA). Doug Hoffman (Allentown, PA) battled with Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing, PA) for third until they made contact on lap 8 with Hoffman gaining control of the spot and Manmiller dropping to ninth as he fought to collect his 11D. Hoffman then focused on Strunk and gained the second spot on lap 13.

Hoffman challenged Von Dohren but Craig held on for the victory. Hoffman did finish second to retain the track point lead while Duane Howard (Oley, PA) caught Strunk in the closing laps to finish third and retained his position as the track’s high man in points in the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I national standings. Strunk finished fourth followed by Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville, PA), Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing, PA), Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville, PA), Jeff Sechrist (Wernersville, PA), Keith Hoffman (Whitehall, PA) in his new ride, the Fran Purcell 6SR, and Tracy Readinger (Oley, PA).

Qualifying heat winners were Dale Roth, Bobby Gunther Walsh and Meme DeSantis while John Willman (Birdsboro, PA) captured the consolation.

Jason Hamilton started 12th in the Sportsman Modified feature and threaded his way through the field after going to the rear after getting caught up in an eleven car tangle on the front stretch on lap two. Rookie Chris James (Mohrsville, PA) led the first four laps over another rookie, Jarrad Miller (Northampton, PA) but Doug Hendricks (Auburn, PA) who started sixth was strong. He went by Miller on lap four and James on lap five to take the lead. Hendricks looked like a sure winner leading circuits five through fifteen. His chances improved when the 30-minute time limit was reached during a caution with 15 laps in the books and word came down that the race would go green-white-checkered to end on lap 17.

Hamilton was fourth with Miller and Jordan Umbenhauer (Richland, PA) between he and the leader but when the green flag flew he took third on the backstretch and blew by Miller and Hendricks in turns three and four to take command. Hamilton took win number two over Hendricks, Umbenhauer, Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg, PA), Jarrad Miller, Greg Weiland (Pottsville, PA), Larry Lippencott (Riegelsville, PA), Kevin Nolf (Nazareth, PA), Luke Wagner (Hershey, PA) and Louie Mitchalk (Summit Hill, PA).

Heat winners were Jarrad Miller, Ryan Moyer (Schuylkill Haven), Doug Hendricks and Chris James while Larry Lippencott and Andy Miller (Schuylkill haven, PA) won the 8-lap consolations.

Marty Shappell went wire-to-wire to win the roadrunner feature over Joe Hendricks (Auburn, PA), Kevin Holland (Pine Grove, PA), Kirby Schlappich (Temple, PA) and Butch Solt (Lehighton, PA). Shappell was first pressured by Kirby Schlappich but on lap six Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven, PA) took second looking for his first point race win after winning the Big Diamond open show on Tuesday. But Hablett faltered and Schlappich regained the spot on lap eight. Joe Hendricks took second from Schlappich on lap eleven but Shappell held on to win.

Roadrunner heat winners with the 22-car field were Hendricks and Schlappich.

Racing returns to Big Diamond for a midweek, open practice session on Wednesday night, June 15 at 7:15 pm. The practice is open to all drivers and all divisions with no membership required. Pit admission is $20 while there is no charge for admission to the spectator area.

Then on Friday, June 17, the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners return to action along with Excel’s 600cc Modifieds. Racing starts at 8 PM. The evening of speed is also Craftsman Night.

RACE RESULTS - DATE: JUNE 10, 2005
BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY, Minersville (Forestville), PA
NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIEDS - 25-LAP FEATURE - 1. 70D Craig Von Dohren ($2000), 2. 77 Doug Hoffman, 3. 357 Duane Howard, 4. 88 Jeff Strunk, 5. 29 Ray Swinehart, 6. 11D Doug Manmiller, 7. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick, 8. 42 Jeff Sechrist, 9. 6SR Keith Hoffman, 10. 2T Tracy Readinger, 11. 118 Sean Merkel, 12. 17Ryan Grim, 13. W9 Colt Harris, 14. 21T Jason Andrews, 15. 71s Sam Schaeffer, 16. 64w John Willman, 17. 31 Chris Esposito, 18. 123 Roy Wiest, 19. 178 Neil Huber, 20. 24H Justin Andrews, 21. 7X Tommy Sheetz, Jr., 22. Sq1 Bobby Gunther Walsh, 23. 6 Dale Roth, 24. 87 Andy Burkhart, 25. 11 Meme DeSantis, 26. 83B Josh Biever, 27. 5 Paul Kline, 28. 14 Rick Laubach. Non-Qualifiers: 79 Amanda Spotts, 808 Dennis Horvath, 72 Jeff Ebersole,
HEAT 1: 6, 29, 14, 11D, 5, 123, 21T, W9, 31, 79.
HEAT 2: SQ1, 7X, 88, 83B, 6SR, 357, 2T, 64W, 17, 178.
HEAT 3: 11, 70D, 87, 102, 77, 42, 71S, 24H, 72, 118, 808.
CONSOLATION: 64W, 17, W9, 118, 178, 31, 24H, 808, 72, 79.

NASCAR SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS - 17-LAP FEATURE - 1. 15 Jason Hamilton ($600), 2. 8JR Doug Hendricks, 3. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer, 4. 99 Craig Whitmoyer, 5. 917 Jarrad Miller, 6. 145 Greg Weiland, 7. 515 Larry Lippencott, 8. 17R Kevin Nolf, 9. 3 Luke Wagner, 10. 147 Louie Mitchalk, 11. 8 Brad Force, 12. 93 Ryan Moyer, 13. 2 Rich Stankiewicz, 14. 47 Gary Wagner, 15. 221 Rob Gibson, 16. 71 Chris James, 17. 25 Ray Deemer, 18. 59 Jason Kohler, 19. 43 Ray Masiado, 20. 64 Andy Miller, 21. 26 Tom Brennan, 22. KT3 Cory Renninger, 23. 110 Bill Finneran, 24. 39 Tom Cremer, 25. 58 Chris Eckert, 26, 72 Ray Woodall, Jr (finished 7th but dropped to last, light after race). Scratches: 157 Andy Fayash and 95 Fred Fisher. Non-Qualifiers: 72 Woodall (in as alternate), 39 Cremer (in as alternate), 35 Ebby Ridge, 144 Don Miller, 17 Billy Moyer, Jr., 73 Darryl Herman, 61 John Leindecker, 10 Lowell Snyder, 30 Carl Felty.
Heat 1: 917, 221, 2, 47, 26, 515, 17, 95, 30.
Heat 2: 93, 15, 58, 25, 43, 61, 35, 17R, 72.
Heat 3: 8JR, 157, 147, KT3, 110, 64, 39, 144, 10.
Heat 4: 71, 99, 19U, 3, 59, 8, 147, 73.
Consi 1: 515, 95, 17R, 72, 35, 17, 61, 30.
Consi 2: 64, 8, 147, 39, 144, 73, 10..

NASCAR ROADRUNNERS - 15-LAP FEATURE - 1. 117 Marty Shappell ($200), 2. 11X Joe Hendricks, 3. 66 Kevin Holland, 4. 11 Kirby Schlappich, 5. 8S Butch Solt, 6. 17 Kevin Beach, 7. 555 Elvin Brennan, 8. 22 Tom Hablett, 9. 37 Eric D. Pinkerton, 10. 712 Jeremy Becker, 11. 20 Corey Sechrist, 12. 721 Jason Sherman, 13. 4 Jake Smulley, 14. 5 Dave Schultz, 15. 39 Phil Levering, 16. 93 Rob Pyle, 17. Big1 Jason Generelli, 18. 8M Ken Eckert, Jr., 19. 7T7 Andy Fayash III, 20. 8 Pete Gettis, 21. 1 Charlie Eckert, Jr., 22. 550 Ryan Olenick.
Heat 1: 11, 4, 117, 20, 39, 550, 721, 8s, 8, Big1, 8m. Heat 2: 11x, 555, 37, 5, 66, 712, 22, 93, 7T7, 17, 1.


NEXT EVENT(S):
Fri., June 10, 8 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds,
Roadrunners. SPEED Channel’s NASCAR Reporter, Bob Dillner is expected to be on had to compete in the Roadrunners.
Wed., June 15, 7:15 PM – OPEN PRACTICE. No Membership Required. All Divisions Welcome.
Fri., June 17, 8 PM - NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds,
Roadrunners, 600cc Modifieds.


Jeff Strunk Roars To Race of Champions South Triumph At Big D

MINERSVILLE, PA – Jeff Strunk’s No. 88 appeared dominant from all angles but one: inside the cockpit.
Driving a car he later said “didn’t feel that good,” Strunk dominated Tuesday night’s Race of Champions Dirt Modified Tour South region lid-lifter at Big Diamond Raceway. The Bethel, PA., star pocketed $4,000 for his win in the 75-lap “School’s Out Special.” It was his first trip to Victory Lane at the Schuylkill County oval since May 11, 2001.
“Honestly, the car didn’t feel that dominant,” admitted Strunk, a four-time Big Diamond small-block Modified champion. “But that’s the thing about this place, when the track gets slick, you have to go slower to be faster.”
At the wheel Chad Sinon’s Morrison big-block-powered Teo-Pro BPG Racing No. 88, Strunk was clearly the class of the field. The 36-year-old started the main seventh and carefully picked his way through traffic.
“I was taking it easy early on,” Strunk said. “There was no big hurry in coming up through – I knew those guys (the front row) would take off.”
Brian Weaver outgunned polesitter Jimmy Horton on the start and set a torrid pace in the event’s first third, driving Randy Decker’s Decker Logging No. 9R Bicknell. Weaver and Kevin Hirthler checked out, while Strunk inched forward. Strunk took third on lap seven and began to chip away at the lead pair.
With Weaver and Hirthler encountering slower traffic by lap 10, Strunk’s job was easier. He slid by Hirthler on lap 13 as the Green Lane, PA., driver was attempting to lap Ryan Bartlett. But Strunk didn’t immediately gain on Weaver as the Southern Tier standout maintained a five car-length advantage while darting through the back-markers.
“I could see I was gaining on those two when I wanted to, so I wasn’t worried,” Strunk stated. “I watched in the heat and he (Weaver) wasn’t that good on the restarts. I was pretty confident I could get him if we had a caution.”
Strunk’s prophecy came to be on lap 23 when Kenny Brightbill spun on the backstretch, necessitating a yellow. When the green dropped, Strunk launched off the outside groove and beat Weaver into turn one.
“The way they do the restarts here, out of (turn) four almost on the straightaway you have to go,” Strunk explained. “I was a little better there. I just wanted to get far enough in front of him to run a clean line through one and two.”
Weaver’s fine ride started to go sour by the halfway point. Difficulty in lapped traffic allowed Jimmy Horton and eighth-starter Rick Laubach to slide into second and third, respectively, on lap 40.
Laubach hounded Horton until diving low in traffic on lap 53, then switching grooves to power around the slower machines in Dieter Schmidt’s No. 5. Horton fought back on the inside for two circuits, but Laubach retained second up high.
By that time, Strunk was on the opposite side of the three-eighths-mile oval.
“I didn’t know I had that much of a lead,” Strunk said. “That’s the thing, without having the two-way radios, you don’t know. I had to run hard (through lapped traffic) because I just didn’t know if anyone was there.”
The race’s second and final caution flew on lap 70 for North Country driver Ryan Bartlett, who stalled and pulled off the backstretch.
Five lapped cars separated the leaders on the single-file restart and Strunk cruised to the victory unchallenged.
The win marked his first-ever big-block Mod win at Big Diamond, and his breakthrough win in a big-block since making the switch to Bobby Hearn’s Teo-Pro cars.
“I’ve known Andy (Harpell, RoC promoter) for a long time, back when Alex (Friesen) was still around,” Strunk said. “He’s a great guy. I’m glad I could win one of the first on this Tour. Heck, it’s always cool to win one of these extra-distance races!”
As impressive as Strunk’s victory was, it shouldn’t overshadow the Herculean performance of runner-up Rick Laubach. The “Quaker Shaker” wrestled the Simonek Performance-powered Teo-Pro 5 car for the final 65 laps with no power steering.
“I’m telling you, I think we had the car to win if we had power steering,” offered Laubach, 32, of Quakertown, PA.
“I really didn’t want to push it,” Laubach said. “Horton was loose off. When he left the bottom open, I shot in there (for second on lap 53). That was the deal - if I had the chance, I’d go for a position. I couldn’t press the issue. I couldn’t set the car in the turns like I wanted to. I’d ride the brake, let it push and turn the car down.
“I could see Strunk (at the end). That’s what killed me.”
Veteran Meme DeSantis of Temple, Pa., finished third in Rick Clay’s Gechter and Trout big-block powered No. 88C Bicknell. It was the second outing for DeSantis in the car.
“We’ve had a miserable year, so I’m happy with this,” uttered the 49-year-old DeSantis, whose podium run was actually his best ’05 finish.
“I broke the brake shut-off valve right at the beginning and I ran the whole race with three-wheel brakes,” DeSantis said. “I panicked after the heat so I set it that way, then I couldn’t correct it.
“I could get around the bottom okay, but I couldn’t go up top.”
Ray Swinehart of Bechtelsville, Pa., rallied to fourth after starting 26th in Jeff Ebersole’s No. 72. Swinehart’s own car was eliminated earlier in the night with mechanical problems. Swinehart never sat in the Ebersole Excavating Bicknell until he strapped in for the feature, but he wasted little time and blasted into the top ten by lap 22.
Defending Big D champ Doug Hoffman of Allentown, Pa., was fifth in the Dennis “Moose” Eisenhard No. 77. He earned the $500 small-block bonus. Weaver and Mitch Gibbs were the final two cars on the lead lap at the finish.
Heat winners for the 36 Modified entrants were Mike Gular, Kevin Hirthler, Meme DeSantis and Mitch Gibbs. Barry Davis and Bobby Trapper were consolation victors.
Tom Hablett started third in the roadrunner 15 and ran second from lap 1 through lap 8 when he caught leader Kirby Schlappich and the lapper car of Pete Gettis at the same time. Hablett took charge as Schlappich hesitated and that was all she wrote. Joe Hendrick took second from Jason Sherman on lap 12. But his 11X was disqualified in a post race inspection, returning the position to Sherman. Dave Schultz finished third hile fourh went to Eric D, Pinkerton when Schlappich’s 1 was disqualified. Tory Jenkins was also rewarded as he finished fifth in his first night in Roadrunner action.
This Friday night, June 10, at Big Diamond Raceway is Dodge Night. A full NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series card will be on tap featuring the Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners. Additionally the SPEED Channel’s reporter Bob Dillner, who has asphalt racing experience, will make his dirt track debut at Big Diamond in Jason Neidlinger’s “SPEED 1”. Should his television schedule permit, Bob also plans to be on hand to meet and greet the Big Diamond fans. Bob will be in town covering the Pocono NASCAR Nextel Cup event and word is a film crew may also make the trip to record the Big Diamond event. Hot laps start at 7:40 PM and the first modified heat goes green at 8 o’clock.
For information on Big Diamond Raceway contact the speedway office at (570) 544-6434 or drop in on the track’s official internet site at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

BIG D ROC NOTES: The two-division show was in the books by 9:45 p.m. on a work night….
Bobby Varin, the winner of both RoC Dirt Mod North events contested in ’05, was a retiree on lap 13 while running fifth. The Sharon Springs, N.Y., driver reported a broken axle on the Magsarus No. 93…. RoC Tour regular Jerry Higbie Jr. headed pitside with engine problems on the 10th circuit….
Polesitter Jimmy Horton ran amongst the top three with Rick Grosso’s No. 42 until encountering an unpleasant experience: hot power steering fluid spraying on him. Horton pulled to the infield on lap 50 and promptly climbed from the car…. Mitch Gibbs was a late arrival after suffering a flat tire on his hauler en route to the track…. The field offered an interesting mix of big-block veterans, talented PA Dual-Trackers and capable short-track racers….

RACE RESULTS - BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY, Minersville, PA - June 7, 2005
RACE OF CHAMPIONS DIRT BIG BLOCK MODIFIED SOUTH REGION OPENER
SCHOOL’S OUT 75-LAP FEATURE, $4000 TO WIN
1. 88 Jeff Strunk/Bethel, PA (Started 7th)
2. 5 Rick Laubach/Quakertown, PA (8th)
3. 88C Meme DeSantis/Temple, PA (10th)
4. 72 Ray Swinehart/Bechtelsville, PA (26th *)
5. 77 Doug Hoffman/Allentown, PA (16th) – 1st Small Block
6. 9R Brian Weaver/Windsor, NY (2nd)
7. 22G Mitch Gibbs/North Norwich, NY (7th)
8. 4B JR Crouse/Nazareth, PA -1 (15th)
9. 117 Kevin Hirthler/Green Lane, PA -1 lap (3rd)
10. 53 Mike Gular/Harleysville, PA -1 lap (12th)
11. T102 Shawn Fitzparick/Pottsville, PA -1 lap (27th *)
12. 19 Kenny Brightbill/Sinking Spring, PA -1 lap (14th)
13. 19K Paul Kinney/Oneida, NY -1 lap (23rd)
14. 24 Chris Shultz/Holmes, NY -1 lap (17th)
15. 42 Ed Strada/South Canaan, PA -1 lap (6th)
16. 29 Chris Ostrowsky/Conklin, NY – DNF (25th**)
17. 50 Ryan Bartlett/Adams, NY – DNF (28th***)
18. 42H Jim Horton/Neshanic Station, NJ – DNF (1st)
19. 66 Bob Trapper/Scranton, PA – DNF (22nd)
20. DR1 Craig Von Dohren/Barto, PA – DNF (9th)
21. 9D Barry Davis/Accord, NY – DNF (21st)
22. 8 Rich Scagliotta/Bound Brook, NJ – DNF (13th)
23. 15 Billy Pauch Jr./Frenchtown, NJ – DNF (18th)
24. 93 Bobby Varin/Sharon Springs, NY – DNF (5th)
25. 97 Jerry Higbie Jr./Slate Hill, NY – DNF (20th)
26. 14W Ryan Watt/Perkiomenville, PA – DNF (24th)
27. OO Doug Manmiller/Wyomissing, PA – DNF (11th)
28. 6SR Keith Hoffman/Whitehall, PA - DNF (19th)
NON-QUALIFIERS ADDED TO THE FEATURE LINE-UP
* - Swinehart & Fitzpatrick added as highest 2 drivers in Big Diamond NASCAR Modified points on non-qualifiers list
** – Ostrowsky added as guaranteed starter from Five Mile Point
*** - Bartlett, North Tour Driver buy in
OTHER NON QUALIFIERS: 83B Josh Biever, 72 Jeff Ebersole (33 Swinehart drove 72 as guaranteed starter), 11D Travis Balthaser, 71s Sam Schaeffer, 2H Kenny Hatt, 42s Jeff Sechrist, 16 Jason Hamilton, 51 Mike Colsten.
FEATURE LAP LEADERS: 42H Jimmy Horton started on pole. 9R Brian Weaver (1-23), 88 Jeff Strunk (24-75). [No cautions between laps 25 and 50 so all 75 were green flag laps.]
CAUTIONS: 2. Lap 24: 19 Brightbill spin, inside, backstretch; Lap 70: 50 Bartlett off backstretch.
HEAT WINNERS: 53 Mike Gular; 117 Kevin Hirthler; 88C Meme DeSantis; 22G Mitch Gibbs.

CONSOLATION WINNERS: 9D Barry Davis; 66 Bob Trapper.
Heat 1: 53, DR1, OO, 8, 24, 9D, 2H, 83B, 42s.
Heat 2: 117, 42H, 42, 19, 15, 72, 14W, 11D, 16.
Heat 3: 88C, 88, 9R, B, 6SR, 29, T102, 19K, 71S.
Heat 4: 2G, 93, 5, 77, 97, 66, 50, 33, 51.
Consi 1: 9D, 19K, 29, 83B, T02, 71S., 42s.
Consi 2: 66, 14W, 11D, 50, 72, 33, 16, 51.

ROADRUNNERS - 15-LAP FEATURE - $100 TO WIN
1. 22 Tom Hablett, Schuylkill Haven, PA; 2. 721 Jason Sherman, Williamstown, PA; 3. 5 Dave Schultz, Llewellyn, PA; 4. 37 Eric D. Pinkerton, Tower City, PA; 5. 22X Tory Jenkins, Schuylkill Haven, PA; 6. 712 Jeremy Becker; 7. 7T7 Andy Fayash; 8. 7 Steve Fessler; 9. 8 Pete Getti; 10. 20 Corey Sechrist; 11. 1 Charlie Eckert, Jr.; 12. BIG1 Josh Generelli; 13. 8S Butch Solt. 14. 11X Joe Hendricks (DQ); 15. 11 Kirby Schlppich (DQ).
HEAT 1: 11 Kirby Schlappich, 22, 5, 20, 7T7, 8S, 37, Big1.
HEAT 2: 721 Jason Sherman, 11X, 22X, 712, 1, 8, 7..


NEXT BIG DIAMOND EVENT(S):
Tues., June 7, 7:30pm – Race of Champions Dirt South Tour – Big Block Modified 75, Roadrunner Open 15. (Big Diamond legal Modifieds are eligible to compete with the modifieds.) - Rain Date, Wed., June 15.
Fri., June 10, 8pm – DODGE NIGHT. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners. (SPEED Channel’s Bob Dillner expected to compete in the Roadrunners).
Wed., June 15, 7:15pm – Open Practice Night.

RAIN STOPS BIG DIAMOND NASCAR ACTION FRIDAY, JUNE 3
(TRACK READIES FOR ROC DIRT BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS TUESDAY, JUNE 7)
(SPEED CHANNEL’S BOB DILLNER EXPECTED TO RACE AT BIG D ON JUNE 10)


Minersville, PA – June 3 – Rain has forced Big Diamond Raceway to cancel their NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series racing card on Friday evening, June 3.

The light rain arrived at Big Diamond Raceway in the early Friday morning hours and refused to move through. In fact forecasters were indicating the blob of green on the weather map would not only last all day but likely well into Saturday, so the speedway officials made the call at mid-day, while also in the dealing with the rain and mist in the midst of excavating to deal with a water main leak at the speedway.

“The water main leak would not have prevented us from racing but the horrible, dreary weather just refused to yield,” commented General Manager, JoAnn Roehrig.

Big Diamond returns to action this Tuesday night, June 7, as the new Race of Champions Dirt series will open their South Region tour for their big block modifieds at Big Diamond at 7:30 pm. Rules pit gasoline-powered, big block modified teams from New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania against the Big Diamond alcohol-powered, 358 modifieds in a 75 lap championship feature that will pay $4000 to win. There is also a $500 small block bonus.

This will be the first event for the Southern RoC Tour of 2005 but Bobby Varin of Sharon Springs, NY has two wins in two starts in RoC North Region action at Fonda and Utica Rome Speedways. Varin will be part of the Big D field in the Ed Munger’s PMC 93 instead of his North Tour 1J out of the Jake Spraker stables.

The roadrunners will run a non-point 15-lap feature which will permit the Selinsgrove legal roadrunners to challenge the Big Diamond regulars. If the roadrunner field exceeds 20 cars, the winner will receive $200 and the normal winning pay for field of less than 20, $100, will go to the second place finisher.

Adult admission for the June 7 event will be $20. Racing starts at 7:30 and spectator gates open at 5:30. The rain date for this Race of Champions event is Wednesday, June 15.

Tire specs for the RoC Modified portion of the show are as follows: Right Rear – American Racer SD 48 (minimum softness), may use American SD 50; Left Rear – American Racer SD 44 (minimum softness); and Front Tires – American Racer SD 33 (minimum softness). This applies to ALL cars.

The standard for motor, body, chassis and safety rules are based on the ’04 DIRT rulebook. Weight information is as follows: Big Block Modifieds – minimum 2,500 pounds with no tolerance (’04 DIRT legal); Small Block Modifieds – minimum 2,400 pounds with no tolerance (’04 DIRT legal); and Big Diamond/Grandview 9-to-1 small blocks – minimum 2,400 pounds with no tolerance. Any other small block combination must weigh a minimum of 2,500 pounds no tolerance. No mixing and matching of rules is permitted.

For more information on the Race of Champions Dirt Modified Tour, visit the website at www.rocdirt.com or call the RoC Dirt office at (607) 238-0432. Rules questions should be directed to this RoC number as well.

Next Friday night, June 10, at Big Diamond Raceway is Dodge Night. A full NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series card will be on tap featuring the Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners. Additionally the SPEED Channel’s reporter Bob Dillner, who has asphalt racing experience, will make his dirt track debut at Big Diamond in Jason Neidlinger’s “SPEED 1”. Should his television schedule permit, Bob also plans to be on hand to meet and greet the Big Diamond fans. Bob will be in town covering the Pocono NASCAR Nextel Cup event and word is a film crew may also make the trip to record the Big Diamond event. Hot laps start at 7:40 PM and the first modified heat goes green at 8 o’clock.

For information on Big Diamond Raceway contact the speedway office at (570) 544-6434 or drop in on the track’s official internet site at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


BIG DIAMOND POINTS 5/28

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points TOT. Wins
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS.
1 1 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 1550 2
2 2 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 1435
3 3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 1405
4 6 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 1305 1
5 4 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 1265
6 5 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 1225
7 8 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 1205
8 12 1 KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 1185 2
9 10 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 1125 1
10 9 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 1075
10 14 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 1075
12 11 5 PAUL KLINE READING 1020
13 7 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 1010
14 13 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 990
15 15 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 915
16 16 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 880
17 17 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 850
18 17 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 815
19 22 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 785
20 19 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON 775
21 20 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 760
22 21 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 755
23 26 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) 625
24 23 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 610
25 24 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 570
26 27 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 555
27 25 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 510
28 30 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 495
28 30 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 495
30 30 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 490
31 33 178 NEIL HUBER BETHEL 415
32 28 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 410
33 29 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON 395
34 38 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 315
35 35 79 AMANDA SPOTTS (rookie) PENNSBURG 275
36 34 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 240
37 35 117 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 150
37 --- 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ CHALFONT 150
39 37 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 145
40 ---- 31 CHRIS ESPOSITO GREEN LANE 140
41 38 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) READING 125
41 38 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 125
43 41 19 JORDAN UMBENHAUER (rookie) RICHLAND 120
43 41 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG 120

These are points for Big Diamond modified drivers for Division I of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series only. The
highest driver in these point standings represents Big Diamond in NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Division I Point
Race. The series points differ from track points and the top point driver here may not be the track point leader!
THESE ARE NOT THE BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY TRACK POINT STANDINGS
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points
CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN To.Pts.
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 372
2 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 370
3 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 364
4 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 336
5 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 326
6 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 306
7 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 302
8 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 288
9 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 284
10 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 276
11 1 KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 270
12 5 PAUL KLINE READING 266
13 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 262
14 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 258
15 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 246
16 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 238
17 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 224
18 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 188
19 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 172
20 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 158
21 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 154
21 W9 COLT HARRIS GORDON 154
23 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 152
24 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 142
25 16 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 122
26 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 114
27 4 JESSE STERLING LEHIGHTON 104
28 178 NEIL HUBER 82
29 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 76
29 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 76
31 79 AMANDA SPOTTS 74
31 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 74
33 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 70
34 808 DENNIS HORVATH 68
35 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 52
36 02 GREG HUMMELHANZ CHALFONT 42
36 17 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 42
38 2 JOHN TSCHUDY BIRDSBORO 40
39 31 CHRIS ESPOSITO GREEN LANE 38
40 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 28
41 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) 22

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts TOT. Feat.
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. Wins
1 1 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 1120
2 2 145 GREG WEILAND POTTSVILLE 1070
2 5 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 1070 1
4 4 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 1035 1
5 9 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 970
6 10 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 915
7 6 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 900
7 7 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 900
9 8 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 875
9 11 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 875
11 19 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 865
12 3 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 830 1
12 16 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 830
14 22 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 825
15 12 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 815
15 14 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 815 1
17 13 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 800
18 17 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 790
19 18 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 755
20 25 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 715
20 27 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 715
22 20 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 710
22 20 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 710
24 23 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 685
25 15 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 670 1
26 26 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 660
27 28 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 605
28 29 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 600
29 30 147 LOUIE MITCHALK SUMMIT HILL 590
30 23 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 560
31 31 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 505
32 32 17T RYAN GRIM READING 480
32 32 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 480
32 32 110 BILL FINNERAN 480
35 37 2 RICK STANKIEWICZ READING 295
36 ----- 1M MIKE LYONS CRANBERRY, NJ 280
37 35 26X JOHN BUSH (rookie) FLEMINGTON, NJ 245
38 36 61 JOHN LEINDECKER (ro) ALLENTOWN 240
38 40 113 JEFF STERNER (rookie) BOWMANSTOWN 240
40 38 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 160
41 39 00 ADAM HUFF (rookie) ASBURY, NJ 125
42 40 2T MIKE TAYLOR MILFORD, NJ 120
42 40 22N RAY GARA 120
42 40 88 MIKE BENT ALPHA, NJ 120
42 ----- 3H MARK HERMAN 120

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts TOT Feat
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS Wins
1 1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 1550 1
2 2 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 1460 1
3 3 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 1400 1
4 4 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 1310
4 6 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 1310 1
6 5 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 1225 1
7 7 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 1170
8 9 4 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 1155 1
9 8 38 BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 1105
10 9 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 1095
11 11 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 1055
12 12 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 1025
13 13 8 PETE GETTIS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 995
14 16 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 965
15 15 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 960
16 14 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 945
17 17 37 ERIC D. PINKERTON TOWER CITY 845
18 18 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 480
19 19 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415
20 20 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 405
21 21 22X MIKE ALLAR ORWISBURG 210
22 ----- 712 JEREMY BECKER 170
23 22 37 ERIC R.PINKERTON (rookie) TOWER CITY 145


NEXT BIG DIAMOND EVENT(S):
Fri., June 3, 8pm - CRAFTSMAN NIGHT/1980 Hall of Fame Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.
Tues., June 7, 7:30pm – Race of Champions Dirt South Tour – Big Block Modified 75, Roadrunner Open 15. (Big Diamond legal Modifieds are legal to compete with the modifieds.) Rain Date, Wed., June 15.
Fri., June 10, 8pm – DODGE NIGHT, 1981 Hall of Fame Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners. (SPEED Channel’s Bob Dillner expected to compete in the Roadrunners).
Wed., June 15, 7:15pm – Open Practice Night.


KEITH HOFFMAN JOINS BROTHER, DOUG, AS BIG DIAMOND 2-TIME MOD WINNER
CRAIG WHITMOYER TOPS SPORTSMAN, HOLLAND IS RR WINNER


Minersville, PA – May 27, 2005 – Keith Hoffman of Whitehall, PA, found his way to another peak of a roller coaster season at Big Diamond Raceway on Friday night (9May 27) to capture his second win of the 2005 season as part of the PA State Police “Click It or Ticket” Night. Thus far this season Keith a seventh place finish and three finishes outside of the top 20, to go with his two wins.

Past Sportsman modified track champion, Craig Whitmoyer of Hamburg, PA, found his way back to the Hoover Chevrolet winner’s circle after a year and a half absence while Kevin Holland of Pine Grove, PA, captured his first roadrunner feature win of the year.

Keith Hoffman took the 25-lap modified feature win over his brother and current point leader Doug Hoffman (Allentown). Craig Von Dohren (Oley), Meme DeSantis (Temple), Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville), Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville), Duane Howard (Oley), Rick Laubach (Quakertown), Tracy Readinger (Oley) and Jason Andrews (Parryville). Heat winners were Keith Hoffman, Bobby Gunther Walsh (Allentown) and Sean Merkel (Gilbertsville) while Jason Andrews won the consolation.

Josh Biever (Landingville) led one lap before the events first yellow flew. On the restrt s they rored of turn four, Biever’s 83B broke in front of the entire field collecting fifteen of the 28 starters. This moved fifth starting Keith Hoffman into the lead and he never looked back. Craig Von Dohren took second from Bobby Gunther Walsh on lap three. Walsh lost the handle in traffic in turns one and two a lap later collecting six drivers including point race contenders Duane Howard and Doug Manmiller. Back under green Doug Hoffman moved by Meme DeSantis and Ray Swinehart to take third on lap four.

Von Dohren made a strong run at Keith Hoffman on the outside in turn three on lap six but the effort came up short and he fell into the clutches of Doug Hoffman. One lap later Doug completed the inside pass of Von Dohren for second. Doug made a few runs at the lead but in the late going Keith pulled away for a comfortable win.

The 2002 and 2003 Big Diamond sportsman track champion, Craig Whitmoyer took the Sportsman Modified 20 over invader Mike Lyons (Cranberry, NJ), Ray Woodall, Jr. (Pen Argyl), Cory Renninger (Llewellyn), Luke Wagner (Hershey), point leader Tom Brennan (Pottsville), Gary Wagner, Jr. (Womelsdorf), Brad Brightbill (Shillington), Lowell Snyder (Upper Black Eddy) and Greg Weiland (Pottsville).

Lowell Snyder (Upper Black Eddy) led first three laps of the Sportsman Modified 20-lap main only to see Cory Renninger (Llewellyn) make a turn four, inside pass off four to lead lap four. But Craig Whitmoyer, who started 10th, followed Renninger by Snyder and then made that same move on Renninger to take the lead one lap later and the win.

Mike Lyons started behind all the heat handicapped cars in the feature in 12th and slowly moved through the field, cracking the top five on lap 8. Lyons took second from Rrenninger on lap 15 but Whitmoyer was long gone. Rob Gibson spun in turn one of the final lap, putting Lyons on Whitmoyer’s tail and then repeated that feat on the restart. On both restarts Whitmoyer held his line and held on for the win.

The win earned Whitmoyer a guaranteed starting spot in the Hoover Chevrolet / GMC Performance Parts 50 on September 2. Whitmoyer joins Billy Moyer, Jr., who was absent this race night, as starters for the Hoover Chevy 50.

Elvin Brennan (Forestville) finished second trailed by Jason Sherman (Williamstown), point leader Kevin Beach (Llewellyn), and Ryan Olenick (Forestville).

Eric D. Pinkertown (the elder Eric in the family) was back in the 37 and he led the first seven laps of the Roadrunner 15-lap main. But Kevin Holland, who started 8th, was not to be denied as he took the lead on lap 8 and went on to win.

This Friday, June 3, at 8 pm is Craftsman Night as well as the 1980 Hall of Fame Night featuring the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners. It is also 1980 Big Diamond Hall of Fame Night as track champions from that season, Billy Schinkel, Scott Haus and Curtis Troup, will be honored.

Then, on Tuesday, June 7, the new Race of Champions Dirt series will open their South Region tour for their big block modifieds at Big Diamond at 7:30 pm. Rules will allow the Big Diamond modifieds to rule their alcohol powered 358 modifieds against the gasoline powered big block modifieds for this event which culminates with a 75 lap championship feature.

This will be the first event for the Southern RoC Tour of 2005 but Bobby Varin of Sharon Springs, NY, who has two wins in two starts in RoC North Region action, will be part of the Big D field in the Ed Munger’s PMC 93. Also the roadrunners will run a non-point 15-lap feature which will permit the Selinsgrove legal roadrunners to challenge the Big Diamond regulars.

For information on big Diamond Raceway contact the speedway office at (570) 544-6434 or drop in on the track’s official internet site at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.

RACE RESULT SUMMARY - DATE: May 27, 2005
BUCKLE UP PA NIGHT – PA STATE POLICE “CLICK IT OR TICKET”
NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIEDS - 25-LAP FEATURE - 1. 1 Keith Hoffman, Whitehall, PA ($2000), 2. 77 Doug Hoffman, Allentown,PA, 3. 70D Craig Von Dohren, Oley, PA, 4. 11 Meme DeSantis, Temple, PA, 5. 29 Ray Swinehart, Bechtelsville, PA, 6. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick, Pottsville, PA, 7. 357 Duane Howard, Oley, PA, 8. 14 Rick Laubach, Quakertown, PA, 9. 2T Tracy Readinger. Oley, PA, 10. 21T Jason Andrews, Parryville, PA; 1. 88 Jeff Strunk; 12. 83B Josh Biever; 13. 11D Doug Manmiller; 14. 18 Sean Merkel; 15. 02 Greg Hummelhanz; 16. 87 Andy Burkhart; 17. 31 Chris Esposito; 18. 123 Roy Wiest; 19. 178 Neil Huber, 20. 79 Amanda Spotts; 21. W9 Colt Harris; 22. 6 Dale Roth; 23. 42 Jeff Sechrist; 24. 64W John Willman; 25. Sq1 Bobby Gunther Walsh; 26. 72 Jeff Ebersole; 27. 5 Paul Kline; 28. 85 Bobby Forsythe. Non-qualifiers: 808 Dennis Horvath, 505 Randy Mohn, 24H Justin Andrews.
Heat 1: 1, 83B, 357, 11D, 64W, 85, 2T, W9, 23, 178.
Heat 2; Sq1, 11, 77, 5, 88, 102, 72, 21T, 31, 505.
Heat 3; 118, 29, 70D, 14, 02, 6, 87, 79, 808, 42, 24H.
Consi: 21T, W9, 123, 79, 42, 178, 31, 808, 505, 24H.

NASCAR SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS - 20-LAP FEATURE - 1. 99 Craig Whitmoyer, Hamburg, PA ($600); 2. 1M Mike Lyons, Cranberry, NJ; 3. 72 Ray Woodall, Jr., Pen Argyl, PA; 4. KT3 Cory Renninger, Llewellyn, PA; 5. 3 Luke Wagner, Grantville, PA; 6. 26 Tom Brennan, Pottsville, PA; 7. 47 Gary Wagner, Jr., Womelsdorf, PA; 8. 19 Brad Brightbill, Shillington, PA; 9. 10 Lowell Snyder, Upper Black Eddy, PA; 10. 145 Greg Weiland, Pottsville, PA; 11. 8 Brad Force; 12. 17R Kevin Nolf; 13. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer; 14. 93 Ryn Moyer; 15. 147 Louie Mitchalk; 16. 515 Larry Lippencott; 17. 35 Ebby Ridge; 18. 157 Andy Faysh, Jr., 19. 8JR Doug Hendricks; 20. 73 Darrel Herman; 21. 144 Don Miller; 22. 221 Rob Gibson; 23. 2 Rich Stankiewicz; 24. 95 Freddie Fisher. Non-qualifiers: 917 Jarrad Miller, 71 Chris James, 110 Bill Finneran, 30 Carl Felty, 3H Mark Herman, 58 Chris Eckert; 17T Ryan Grim; 25 Ray Deemer; 43 Joe Masiado; 59 Jason Kohler; 113 Jeff Sterner.
Heat 1: 99, 10, 144, 8, 26, 35, 221, 30, 17T, 157, 43, 3H.
Heat 2: 47, 8JR, 1M, KT3, 19, 2, 147, 58, 25, 71, 59, 93.
Heat 3: 72, 17R, 3, 73, 145, 19U, 95, 917, 515, 110, 113.
Consolation: 147, 157, 95, 221, 515, 93, 917, 71, 110, 30, 3H, 58, 17T, 25, 43, 59, 113.

NASCAR ROADRUNNERS - 15-LAP FEATURE - 1. 66 Kevin Holland, Pine Grove, PA ($100); 2. 555 Elvin Brennan, Forestville, PA; 3. 721 Jason Sherman, Williamstown, PA; 4. 17 Kevin Beach, Llewellyn, PA; 5. 550 Ryan Olenick, Forestville, PA; 6. 37 Eric D. Pinkerton; 7. 4 Jake Smulley; 8. 22 Tom Hablett; 9. 1 Kirby Schlappich; 10. 8 Pete Gettis; 11. 712 Jeremy Becker; 12 7T7 Andy Fayash, III; 13. 20 Corey Sechrist; 14. 93 Rob Pyle; 15. 11x Joe Hendricks; 16. 5 Dave Schultz; 17. 38 Butch Solt; 18. 8M Ken Eckert, Jr.
Heat 1: 11X, 37, 11, 555, 93, 8, 17, 4, 2.
Heat 2: 66, 550, 20, 38, 721, 7T7, 5, 712, 8M.


Coming Events:
Fri., May 27, 8 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds (Hoover Chevrolet Sportsman 50 Qualifier), Roadrunners.
Fri., June 3, 8 PM – CRAFTSMAN NIGHT - 1980 Hall of Fame Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman , Roadrunners.
Tues., June 7 – RACE OF CHAMPIONS Dirt Modified Series - Southern Tour. Big Block Modified 75, Open Roadrunners. (Raindate, Wednesday, June 15)
Fri., June 10 – DODGE NIGHT – 1981 Hall of Fame Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.

BIG DIAMOND NASCAR STOCK CARS/ARDC MIDGETS RAINED OUT ON FRIDAY, MAY 20;
NASCAR MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS & ROADRUNNERS BACK NEXT WEEK


Minersville, PA – May 20. 2005 – Rain forced the staff at Big Diamond Raceway to cancel the Friday night card of NASCAR Modifieds, NASCAR Sportsman Modifieds, ARDC Midgets and NASCAR Roadrunners.

Racing will resume next Friday night, May 27th, with a regular three-division card of NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners at 8 PM. No plans have discussed for making-up the midget show but the ARDC Midgets are scheduled to return to Big Diamond Raceway on Friday night, August 19. ARDC has seen four of their first five scheduled events rained out this season with one of those dates being rescheduled and rained out agsin to leave them 1 for 6 in ’05.

This Friday’s Sportsman Modified program will yield the second guaranteed starting spot in the 3rd Annual Hoover Chevrolet / GM Performance Parts 50 scheduled for Friday, September 2. The event which pays $2000 to win is the biggest event of its kind for the Sportsman sponsored by Hoover Chevy in Wernersville, PA. With his win on May 6, Billy Moyer, Jr. of Pine Grove has already secured a spot in the rich, season-closing event which has been won in the past by driver/engine-builder Dave Van Horn and Jason Hamilton.

The quality of the Modified field at Big Diamond Raceway is second to none. It includes point leader and defending past champion Doug Hoffman of Allentown with 1270 points and 2 wins and past champion Duane Howard of Oley with 1225 points. Ray Swinehart of Bechtelsville is next with 1170 points followed by past champion and Grandview point leader and defending champion, Jeff Strunk of Bethel at 1095; and Doug Manmiller of Wyomissing, PA, at 1065. Completing the top ten are Craig Von Dohren (Oley) with 1040; Rick Schaffer (Woxall) at 1010; Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville) at 985; John Willman (Birdsboro) at 950; and Rick Laubach (Richlandtown) at 925. Paul Kline, past champion Keith Hoffman, Jeff Sechrist, Meme DeSantis, past champion Roy Wiest, Sean Merkel, Jason Andrews, Andy Burkhart, rookie Colt Harris and Justin Andrews complete the top 20.

While the high number of drivers recognized as the ‘cream of the crop’ racing at Big Diamond this season has found a few drivers electing to avoid the challenge, among the competitors stepping up and giving the stars all they can handle are Shawn Fitzpatrick, John Willman, Paul Kline and the ageless wonder Roy Wiest, who was the first ever champion at Big Diamond back in 1972. All but Wiest are having their strongest seasons ever at Big Diamond and two-time champion, Wiest is running better than he has in over 15 years with the Dave Dissinger #123.

The Big Diamond Sportsman Modified standings saw a four driver log jam within five points of the lead going into May 13 break apart just a bit. Defending champion Tom Brennan and Greg Weiland, both of Pottsville, PA, are first and second with 900 and 890 points respectively. Jason Hamilton (Erwinna), who will be serving a one event suspension on the next race night, is third at 830 followed by Gary Wagner, Jr. (Womelsdorf) at 825 and past champion Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg) at 770. Larry Lippencott (Riegelsville), Ryan Moyer (Schuylkill Haven), Andy Fayash, Jr. (Mary-D), Luke Wagner (Grantville) and Brad Brightbill (Shillington) stand sixth through tenth with Brad Force, Freddie Fisher, Jason Kohler, Ebby Ridge and Billy Moyer, Jr. filling the next five spots.

Sophomore driver Kevin Beach of Llewellyn is seeking his first Roadrunner championship as the current point leader with 1300 points. He is followed by another second year pilot, Jason Sherman of Williamstown with 1195 points. Completing the top ten are Elvin Brennan (Forestville) at 1120, rookie Ryan Olenick (Forestville) at 1075, Kirby Schlappich (Temple) at 1035, Kevin Holland (Pine Grove) at 1010, Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven) at 970, Butch Solt (Lehighton) at 965, rookie Joe Hendricks (Auburn) at 945 and Jake Smulley (Minersville) at 945.

The night of racing at Big Diamond begins this Friday at 8 PM while the spectator ticket window opens at 6 PM.

As always, for more information on Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or visit the speedway’s web site at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


THE DIAMONDS IN THE RUFF

MINERSVILLE, PA - Big Diamond Raceway and Pit Rat Promotions & Marketing present - 'The Diamonds In The Ruff'.
The Diamonds In The Ruff  Modified drivers Bobby Forsyth, Colt Harris and Sean Merkel; Sportsman driver Jordan Umbenhauer; and Roadrunner driver Andrew Fayash III are the five teen-aged drivers who compete weekly at Big Diamond Raceway.
While still in high school or recently graduated, these young men are future role models as they juggle teen-aged life and racing careers. So who better to educate the youth about the family-oriented sport of auto racing.
With the future of local dirt track racing always in question, orientating today's youth is vital and The Diamonds In The Ruff have set out to do just that. These drivers will promote local dirt track racing as they relate and interact with youngsters at various events and with different organizations and charities throughout the racing season and beyond. The program is geared toward children because children are the future of auto racing.
The Diamonds In The Ruff will make their first appearance on Thursday, May 19th, when they join NASCAR WRS Modified superstar Jeff Strunk and Sportsman Modified star Greg Weiland at the St. Clair Elementary/Middle School in St. Clair, PA, in an effort to promote local racing. The event is sponsored by Pit Rat Live - a weekly racing radio show on the Phoenix 1450 WPAM of Pottsville, PA.
The school is so excited about the event that each grade from K-7 will be taking part. The schoolyard will become Victory Lane with some of the racecars on display and the students have been viewing the Bill Bush's 2004 crash tape as they anticipate the arrival of Strunk, Weiland and The Diamonds In The Ruff. The drivers will talk to the students about safety and the different ways to be involved in various forms of local racing.
This area is lacking for things to do on a Friday night so by adding a few role models for some children to look up to will help get families out to the track and make Big Diamond THE only place to be on a Friday night. It's the perfect way to bring new fans and a whole new generation to the track.
If you are interested in scheduling the Diamonds In The Ruff for appearances, contact Pit Rat Promotions & Marketing at 570-277-6733 or email jody@pitratlive.com.
(Photo courtesy of Photograffics - www.photograffics.net)

Diamonds in the ruff.jpg (349166 bytes)


BIG DIAMOND POINTS 5/14

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points TOT. Wins
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS.
1 2 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 1270 2
2 1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 1225
3 3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 1170
4 4 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 1095
5 4 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 1065
6 8 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 1040 1
7 6 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 1010
8 10 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 985
9 10 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 950
10 7 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 925 1
11 12 5 PAUL KLINE READING 895
12 8 1 KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 885 1
13 14 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 865
14 13 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 825
15 15 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 780
16 17 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 725
17 19 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 670
17 20 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 670
19 22 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON 650
20 24 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 640
21 22 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 630
22 18 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 620
23 16 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 610
24 25 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 570
25 21 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 510
26 29 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) 505
27 26 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 430
28 27 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 410
29 28 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON 395
30 30 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 370
30 30 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 370
30 32 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 370
33 39 178 NEIL HUBER BETHEL 285
34 33 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 240
35 34 117 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 150
35 ----- 79 AMANDA SPOTTS (rookie) 150
37 35 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 145
38 36 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 125
38 36 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) READING 125
38 36 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 125
41 39 19 JORDAN UMBENHAUER (rookie) RICHLAND 120
41 ----- 21K KYLE WEISS HAMBURG 120

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts TOT. Feat.
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. Wins
1 1 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 900
2 1 145 GREG WEILAND POTTSVILLE 890
3 3 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 830 1
4 3 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 825 1
5 6 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 770
6 5 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 755
7 12 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 745
8 7 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 740
9 11 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 735
10 9 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 715
11 8 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 705
12 24 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 690
13 16 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 680
14 25 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 675 1
15 10 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 670 1
16 22 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 670
17 16 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 660
18 12 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 635
19 19 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 600
20 14 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 585
20 14 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 585
22 16 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 575
23 20 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 560
23 30 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 560
25 20 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 550
26 22 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 540
27 25 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 525
28 27 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 485
29 28 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 480
30 29 147 LOUIE MITCHALK SUMMIT HILL 440
31 31 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 385
32 31 17T RYAN GRIM READING 360
32 31 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 360
32 31 110 BILL FINNERAN 360
35 37 26X JOHN BUSH (rookie) FLEMINGTON, NJ 245
36 37 61 JOHN LEINDECKER (ro) ALLENTOWN 240
37 ----- 2 RICK STANKIEWICZ READING 170
38 35 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 160
39 36 00 ADAM HUFF (rookie) ASBURY, NJ 125
40 37 113 JEFF STERNER (rookie) BOWMANSTOWN 120
40 ----- 2T MIKE TAYLOR MILFORD, NJ 120
40 ----- 22N RAY GARA 120
40 ---- 88 MIKE BENT ALPHA, NJ 120

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts TOT Feat
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS Wins
1 1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 1300 1
2 3 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 1195 1
3 2 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 1120 1
4 4 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 1075
5 5 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 1035 1
6 9 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 1010
7 7 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 970
8 10 38 BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 965
9 6 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 945
9 8 4 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 945 1
11 12 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 910
12 11 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 865
13 12 8 PETE GETTIS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 815
14 15 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 810
15 16 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 805
16 14 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 800
17 17 37 ERIC D. PINKERTON TOWER CITY 625
18 20 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 480
19 18 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415
20 19 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 405
21 ----- 22X MIKE ALLAR ORWISBURG 210
22 ----- 37 ERIC R. PINKERTON (rok) TOWER CITY 145


Coming Events:
Fri., May 20, 8PM– NASCAR Dodge Weekly Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners, & ARDC Wingless Midget Twin-20’s.
Fri., May 27, 8PM– NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds (Hoover Chevrolet 50 Qualifier),Roadrunners.
Fri., June 3, 8PM– CRAFTSMAN NIGHT/’80 Hall of Fame Night. NASCAR DodgeWS Modifieds, Sportsman Mods , Roadrunners.
Tue., June 7, 7:15PM– RACE OF CHAMPIONS Dirt Series Southern Tour. Big Block Modified 75, Roadrunners. (Raindate, Wed., 6/15)
Fri., June 10, 8 PM– DODGE NIGHT/’81 Hall of Fame Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Modifieds, Sportsman Mods., Roadrunners.


DOUG HOFFMAN BECOMES FIRST ’05 DOUBLE WINNER AT BIG DIAMOND IN MODIFIEDS;
EBBY RIDGE EARNS 1ST CAREER SPORTSMAN WIN, BEACH TOPS RRs, BALDWIN GETS 600 MOD WIN


Minersville, PA – May 13, 2005 – Defending champion, Doug Hoffman of Allentown, PA, avoided the “big ones” on a night of racing that lived up to the reputation of Friday the 13th to become the first repeat winner of the year at Big Diamond Raceway in the NASCAR Dodge Racing Series Modifieds on NAPA Auto Parts Night. The win put Hoffman into the modified point lead in Dennis Eisenhard’s Kerry Hertzog Auto Sales / Westside Wood Products, Ford-powered Teo #77

Ebby Ridge of Milford, NJ earned his first career NASCAR Sportsman Modified win while Kevin Beach of Llewellyn, Pa took his first win of the year in the NASCAR Roadrunners. A surprised Dave Baldwin was awarded the 600 Modified by XCEL win after the top three were disqualified in their 15-lap feature.

This Friday night, May 20, will mark the first time in more than 30 years that midget auto racing has rocked Forestville, PA, as the American Racing Drivers Club (ARDC) invade the Big Diamond Raceway, joining the weekly menu of NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman-Modifieds, and Roadrunners. The ARDC Midgets will sling some clay in wingless, twin 20-lap features. There will not be any qualifying races for the ARDC or for the Roadrunners on this card, just all out feature mayhem on the 3/8th mile. Racing starts at 8 PM.

The 25-lap modified feature uncharacteristically saw numerous caution periods, including two multi-car, Talladega/Daytona-style tangles in turn four, which has many believing in the bad luck of Friday the 13th. Justin Andrews (Parryville), Bobby Gunther Walsh (Allentown) and Jeff Sechrist (Wernersville) ran up front early but Doug Hoffman threaded through the tangles and the competition from his 18th starting stop to take the lead on lap 12 and the eventual win. Craig Von Dohren (Oley) returned from a lap two spin to finish second followed by Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville), Jeff Strunk (Bethel), Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville), Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing), Jeff Sechrist, Rick Schaffer (Woxall), John Willman (Birdsboro) and Duane Howard (Oley).

The Sportsman 20 was only slowed by four single-car spins and Ebby Ridge took he lead from John Bush on lap one and led every lap for his first career win in the L.D. High and Sons / Valley Auto Supply, Bouc Chevy-powered Troyer #35. Freddie Fisher (Wernesrville) finished second followed by Andy Miller (Schuylkill Haven), Jordan Umbenhauer (Richland), Ryan Moyer (Schuylkill Haven), Jason Kohler (Kutztown), Doug Hendricks (Auburn), Luke Wagner (Grantville), point leader Tom Brennan (Pottsville) and Greg Weiland (Pottsville).

A caution with two laps remaining in the 15-lap roadrunner feature enabled Kevin Beach to overtake Butch Solt (Lehighton) for the win in the Uncle Cones #17. Kevin Holland (Pine Grove) finished second head of Solt, Jason Sherman (Williamstown) and Dave Schultz (Llewellyn).

The 600 Modifieds made their first appearance ever at big Diamond for their second race of the year. It was apparent that a few of the drivers are just getting up to speed on rules and requirements as apparent winner, Tom Martucci was disqualified for insufficient tire pressures, and the next two finishers, Scott Washburn and Barry McDole were disqualified for failing to report for technical inspections after their post race weigh-in. That made Dave Baldwin the official 15-lap feature winner over Paul Tuthill, Doug Borger, Craig Beringer and Jason Van Dorn.

Modified heat winners were Meme DeSantis (Temple), who covered the ten lap distance in a sizzling time of 2:59.632; Craig Von Dohren and Keith Hoffman (Whitehall). Sportsman heat wins went to Luke Wagner (Grantville), Freddie Fisher, Ebby Ridge and Ryan Moyer while consolation wins went to Don Miller (Northampton) and Brad Brightbill (Shillington). Butch Solt and Elvin Brennan (Forestville) were roadrunner heat winners while Tom Martucci took the 600cc Modified heat.

Justin Andrews set the pace for the first lap in the modified feature but a restart with only one, caused by a caution for the spinning Craig Von Dohren, saw Bobby Gunther Walsh take command. Duane Howard found himself and his 357 backwards in turn three with two complete and on this restart Andy Burkhart (Temple) and Jeff Sechrist slipped by Andrews. With four in the first pile-up occurred in turn four as Burkhart caught the planted inside tire markers and collected Shawn Fitzpatrick, Jeff Strunk and Meme DeSantis (who were sixth, seventh and eighth) as well as Rick Laubach, Keith Hoffman, Doug Manmiller, Sean Merkel, Colt Harris, Josh Biever and Dale Roth. Following a three car restart tangle, Walsh now led the way on the restart trailed by Sechrist, John Willman, Ray Swinehart and Doug Hoffman.

Following two separate one-car incidents, Sechrist made a run at Walsh and his ‘square one’ / Yocco’s Hot Dogs #1 on the inside on lap 6. He stayed with the move and pulled the Hoover Chevrolet #42 ahead on lap 7 in turns one and two. Lap later Swinehart and Hoffman also got by Walsh. After two spins with 10 complete, Hoffman took to the outside to pass Swinehart in turn two. A lap later Doug moved to the inside and overtook Sechrist in turn four for the lead, but the mayhem was not over.

On lap 14 in turns three and four, the cars of Walsh, Rick Schaffer, Manmiller, Roy Wiest, Biever, Burkhart, Tommy Sheetz and Harris tangled. The top five now showed Doug Hoffman, Swinehart, Von Dohren, Sechrist and Duane Howard as Von Dohren and Howard recovered from their early spins. Howard and just slipped by Sechrist for fourth when again Howard spun collecting sixth place Rick Laubach on lap 18.

Von Dohren battled for four laps, side-by-side with Swinehart until he finally secured second but was forced to settle for second in the Devine Transport 70D ahead of Swinehart, a closing Jeff Strunk, Shawn Fitzpatrick and a late charging Manmiller.

Last on the agenda was the Sportsman 20 and the numerous modified caution laps and restarts took its toll on the track surface leaving it hard and slick. John Bush, Jr. started on the pole but Ebby Ridge used the high side to take charge in turn one on the opening lap. Jason Hamilton and Andy Fayash, Jr. exchanged shots on the front stretch and in turn one as they completed lap one and Hamilton ended up backwards in turn two and both drivers were sent to the rear. The top four firmed up by lap 3, including Ridge, Freddie Fisher, Andy Miller and Jordan Umbenhauer, and remained unchanged with few cautions. In the closing laps Ryan Moyer overtook Jason Kohler for fifth, showing the most improvement of the front five after coming from eighth. Tom Brennan and Greg Weiland came into the event tied for the point lead and Brennan finished ninth, one spot better than Weiland, to take the point lead.

Rookie Pete Gettis took the early roadrunner lead in his red Gettis Welding and Trailers 8 but Butch Solt charged under the leader on lap 10 for the lead. Solt looked like a first time winner until the yellow flew with 13 complete. On the restart second place Kevin Holland and third place Kevin Beach took opposite sides of Solt with Beach coming away on top for the win.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY - RACE RESULTS - May 13, 2005 - NAPA AUTO PARTS NIGHT
NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIEDS - 25-LAP FEATURE : 1. 77 Doug Hoffman, Allentown, PA $(2000); 2. 70D Craig Von Dohren, Oley, PA; 3. 29 Ray Swinehart, Bechtelsville, Pa; 4. 88 Jeff Strunk, Bethel, PA; 5. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick, Pottsville, PA; 6. 11D Doug Manmiller, Wyomissing, PA; 7. 42 Jeff Sechrist, Wernersville, PA; 8. 6SR Rick Schaffer, Woxall, PA; 9. 64W John Willman, Birdsboro, PA; 10. 357 Duane Howard, Oley, PA; 11. 5 Paul Kline; 12. 178 Neil Huber; 13. 23 Roy Wiest; 14. 14 Rick Laubach; 15. 79 Amanda Spotts; 16. W9 Colt Harris; 17. 24H Justin Andrews; 18. 87 Andy Burkhart; 19. 83B Josh Biever; 20. Sq1 Bobby Gunther Walsh; 21. 808 Dennis Horvath; 22. 7X Tommy Sheetz, 23. 1 Keith Hoffman; 24. 6 Dale Roth; 25. 118 Sean Merkel; 26. 1 Meme DeSantis. DNQ: 21K Kyle Weiss, 21T Jason Andrews.
HEAT 1: 11, 102, 357, 88, 14, 118, W9, 79, 6.
HEAT 2: 70D, 29, 6SR, 83B, 24H, 123, 5, 808, 21T.
HEAT 3: 1, 87, 42, SQ1, 64W, 77, 11D, 7X, 178, 21K.

NASCAR SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS - 20-LAP FEATURE: 1. 35 Ebby Ridge, Milford, NJ (4600); 2. 95 Freddie Fisher, Reading, PA; 3. 64 Andy Miller, Schuylkill Haven, PA; 4. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer, Richland, PA; 5. 93 Ryan Moyer, Schuylkill Haven, PA; 6. 59 Jason Kohler, Kutztown, PA; 7. 8JR Doug Hendricks, Auburn, PA; 8. 3 Luke Wagner, Grantville, PA; 9. 26 Tom Brennan, Pottsville, PA; 10. 145 Greg Weiland, Pottsville, PA; 11. 2 Rich Stankiewicz; 12. 99 Craig Whitmoyer; 13. 72 Ray Woodall, Jr.; 14. 19 Brad Brightbill; 15. 10 Lowell Snyder; 16. 515 Larry Lippencott; 17. 157 Andy Fayash, Jr.; 18. 144 Don Miller; 19. 8 Brad Force; 20. 917 Jarrad Miller; 21. 15 Jason Hamilton; 22. 17 Billy Moyer, Jr.; 23. KT3 Cory Renninger; 24. 26X John Bush, Jr., 25. 17R Kevin Nolf, 26. 43 Joe Masiado. DNQ: 58 Chris Eckert, 73 Darrel Herman, 147 Louie Mitchalk, , 61 John Leindecker, 30 Carl Felty, 25 Ray Deemer, 221 Rob Gilson, 2T Mike Taylor, 71 Chris James, 47 Gary Wagner, Jr., 17T Ryan Grim, 110 Bill Finneran, 22N Ray Gara, 88 Mike Bent.
Heat 1: 3, 15, 2, 157, 917, 144, KT3, 221, 30, 7T.
Heat 2: 95, 8, 99, 17, 145, 58, 17R, 147, 71, 22N.
Heat 3: 35, 19u, 59, 26, 72, 19, 515, 43, 110, 88.
Heat 4: 93, 8, 64, 26x, 10, 2T, 73, 61, 25, 47.
Consi 1: 144, 17R, KT3, 58, 147, 30, 221, 71, 17T, 2N.
Consi 2: 9, 515, 43, 73, 61, 25, 2T, 47, 110, 88.

NASCAR ROADRUNNERS - 15-LAP FEATURE: 1. 17 Kevin Beach, Llewellyn, PA; 2. 66 Kevin Holland, Pine Grove, PA; 3. 38 Butch Solt, Lehighton, PA; 4. 721 Jason Sherman, Williamstown, PA; 5. 5 Dave Schultz, Llewellyn, PA; 6. 22 Tom Hablett; 7. 22X Mike Allar; 8. 4 Jake Smulley; 9. 11 Kirby Schlappich; 10. 11X Joe Hendricks; 11. 20 Corey Sechrist; 12. 93 Robbie Pyle; 13. 8M Ken Eckert, Jr.; 14. 555 Elvin Brennan; 15. 550 Ryan Olenick; 16. 37 Eric R. Pinkerton; 17. 8 Pete Gettis; 18. 7T7 Andy Fayash, Jr.; 19. 117 Marty Shappell.
Heat 1: 38, 4, 8, 721, 22x, 66, 8M, 37, 5, 11x.
Heat 2: 555, 22, 11, 17, 550, 7T7, 93, 117, 20.

600 MODIFIEDS - 15-LAP FEATURE: 1. 15 Dave Baldwin; 2. 88 Paul Tuthill; 3. 74 Doug Borger; 4. x3 Craig Beringer; 5. 20 Jason Van Dorn; 6. 55 Bob Butler; 7. G1 Kyle Gardner; 8. 77 Nick Mader; 9. M1 Tom Martucci (1st-dq); 10. 119 Scott Washburn (2nd-dq); 11. 8 Barry McDole (3rd-dq); 12. 7 Tim Manieri (dns); 13. 90 Brian Mady (dns).
Heat: 8, M1, 119, 55, 74, X3, 15, 20, 88, 7, 90, 61, 77.


Coming Events:
Fri., May 20, 8PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners, & ARDC Wingless Midget Twin-20’s.
Fri., May 27, 8 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds (Hoover Chevrolet Sportsman 50 Qualifier), Roadrunners.
Fri., June 3, 8 PM – CRAFTSMAN NIGHT - 1980 Hall of Fame Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman , Roadrunners.
Tues., June 7 – RACE OF CHAMPIONS Dirt Modified Series - Southern Tour. Big Block Modified 75, Roadrunners. (Raindate, Wednesday, June 15)
Fri., June 10 – DODGE NIGHT – 1981 Hall of Fame Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.


THE ARDC MIDGETS ARE BACK AT BIG DIAMOND AFTER 30 YEARS ON FRIDAY, MAY 20;
NASCAR MODIFIEDS, SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS & ROADRUNNERS ALSO ON BIG CARD


Minersville, PA – May 13. 2005 - Friday night, May 20, will mark the first time in more than 30 years that midget auto racing has rocked Forestville, PA, as the American Racing Drivers Club (ARDC) invades the Big Diamond Raceway. Over 30-years ago, under the direction of Ed Darrell, the midgets came to Big Diamond with Wayne Woodward capturing the only midget event ever run at the track.

Joining the weekly menu of NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman-Modifieds, and Roadrunners, the ARDC Midgets will sling some clay in wingless fashion. The midgets will compete in twin 20-lap features. There will not be any qualifying races for the ARDC contingent, just flat-out, broadsliding mayhem in the twin 20's.

Some of the ARDC campaigners took advantage of an open practice session held at Big Diamond on Tuesday night, May 10. Five-time champion of the oldest midget racing club in America, Ray Bull and his Mega Motorsports teammates, Dave Shirk and Carey Becker, dialed in their cars during the Tuesday practice. Fort Lee, NJ's Frank Polimeda circled the oval in his Lou Zrinski, Kozak Precision Products no. 44 along with Bobby Goerner of Myerstown, PA in his 38G. And Mark Lawshe, from Egg Harbor City, NJ, made the long tow to take part in the open practice in his no. 95.

They will be joined Friday by the Racing Millers: Mike (runner-up in the 2004 point standings) and his daughters, Tracy and Michele. Also running one of the Miller Team's midgets will be the Royersford Rocket, Steve Buckwalter. Former ARDC champion Ed Stimely, Jr. and Donnie Trent will be in the field, along with rookies Andy Martin, Eric Heydenreich, and Jeff Schell as well as many others.

But let’s not forget that the stock cars will be there too!

The quality of the Modified field at Big Diamond Raceway is second to none. It includes point leader and past champion Duane Howard of Oley, PA; defending champion Doug Hoffman of Allentown, PA; past champions Jeff Strunk of Bethel, PA and Keith Hoffman of Whitehall, PA; Rick Laubach of Quakertown, PA; Craig Von Dohren of Oley, PA; Ray Swinehart of Bechtelsville, PA; Doug Manmiller of Wyomissing, PA; Meme DeSantis of Temple, PA; Rick Schaffer of Woxall, PA; and Sean Merkel of Gilbertsville, PA.

The Big Diamond Sportsman Modified standings had a real log jam going into the scheduled event on Friday, May 13, with defending champion Tom Brennan and Greg Weiland, both of Pottsville, PA, tied for the lead with 710 and Gary Wagner, Jr. of Womelsdorf, PA and Jason Hamilton of Erwinna, PA tied for third, only five points behind the leaders, with 705.

The huge night of racing at Big Diamond begins at 8 PM, the spectator ticket window opens at 6 PM.

As always, for more information on Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or visit the speedway’s web site at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.   


Participants in the May 10, 2005 Practice Session at Big Diamond Raceway, Minersville, PA 7:15 – 10:35

TOTAL OF 48 CARS
Modifieds (4)
#4 Jesse Sterling
#42 Jeff Sechrist
#178 Neil Huber
#808 Dennis Horvath

Big Block Modifieds (2)
#66 Vince Gagliardo, Jr.
#88C Meme DeSantis

Sportsman Modifieds (9)
#2 Rich Stankiewicz
#KT3 Cory Renninger
#8JR Doug Hendricks
#30 Carl Felty
#64 Andy Miller
#71 Chris James
#95 Fred Fisher (& Jeff Sechrist)
#221 Rob Gibson
#712 Kevin Beach

Sprints (5)
#1 Mark Smith
#11 Mike Erdley
#11 TJ Stutts
#11X Pete Green
#64J Chris Haydt

Super Sportsman (2)
#B1 Joe Biasi, Jr.
#17 Denny Willey (and son)

ARDC Midgets (6)
#2 Dave Shirk
#20 Corey Becker
#22 Ray Bull
#38G Bob Goerner
#44 Frank Polimida
#95 Mark Lawshe

600cc Modifieds (2)
#1 Tom Martocci
#20 Jason VonDorn

Legend (1)
#11 John Zemaitis (& Mark Smith)

Late Models (2)
#33 Scott Haus
#119 Brandon Bernheisel (also Jim Bernheisel & Scott Haus)

Roadrunners (12)
#4 Jake Smulley
#11X Joe Hendricks
#13 Jim Collier
#17 Kevin Beach
#20 Corey Sechrist
#22 Tom Hablett
#22x Mike Allar
#37 Eric Pinkerton
#38 Butch Solt
#7T7 Andy Fayash, III (& Andy Jr.)
#550 Ryan Olenick
#721 Jason Sherman

ProTrucks (1)
#72 Ebersole Racing Crew

Enduros (2)
33oz Barclay Wilson (Xtreme)
44 Kevin Brown


BIG DIAMOND POINTS 5/7

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. Feat.Wins
1 1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 1045
2 2 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 970 1
3 3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 905
4 6 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 845
4 8 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 845
6 4 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 820
7 5 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 770 1
8 11 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 760 1
8 16 1 KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 760 1
10 7 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 750
10 10 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 750
12 12 5 PAUL KLINE READING 725
13 9 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 700
14 14 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 655
5 17 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 620
16 18 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 610
17 15 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 600
18 19 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 590
19 20 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 550
20 21 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 535
21 13 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 510
22 23 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 505
22 24 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON 505
24 25 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 500
25 27 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 445
26 28 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 430
27 22 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 410
28 29 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON 395
29 31 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) 380
30 26 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 370
30 30 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 370
32 38 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 245
33 32 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 240
34 33 17 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 150
35 34 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 145
36 35 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 125
36 36 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) 125
36 37 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 125
39 39 19 JORDAN UMBENHAUER (ro) RICHLAND 120
39 40 178 NEIL HUBER 120

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS. FeatWiNS
1 2 145 GREG WEILAND POTTSVILLE 710
1 3 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 710
3 6 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 705 1
3 1 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 705 1
5 5 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 610
6 10 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 605
7 4 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 600
8 7 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 575
9 9 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 560
10 25 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 545 1
11 15 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 535
12 8 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 510
12 27 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 510
14 14 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 465
14 17 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 465
16 11 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 460
16 13 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 450
16 12 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 450
19 24 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 440
20 16 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 425
20 22 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 425
22 20 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 420
22 19 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 420
24 21 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 410
25 23 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 375
25 30 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 375
27 26 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 365
28 28 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 360
29 35 147 LOUIE MITCHALK 320
30 18 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 295
31 33 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) 260
31 32 110 BILL FINNERAN 240
31 29 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 240
31 36 17T RYAN GRIM 240
35 31 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 160
36 --- 00 ADAM HUFF (rookie) ASBURY, NJ 125
37 --- 113 JEFF STERNER (rookie) BOWMANTOWN 120
37 34 26X JOHN BUSH (rookie) 120
37 --- 61 JOHN LEINDECKER (ro) ALLENTOWN 120

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts
Pos Last CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS Feat.Wins
1 1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 1000
2 5 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 965 1
3 3 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 945 1
4 4 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 925
5 2 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 845 1
6 6 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 765
7 7 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 750
8 14 4 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 745 1
9 8 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 730
10 11 38 BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 700
11 13 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 695
12 16 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 675
12 10 8 PETE GETTIS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 675
14 9 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 665
15 17 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 650
16 12 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 640
17 15 37 ERIC PINKERTON TOWER CITY 625
18 18 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415
19 20 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 405
20 19 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 350

These are points for Big Diamond modified drivers only for Division I of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly
Series. When NASCAR begins publicizing the official division points, these points will include all drivers
from all tracks in the division.
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points
CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN PTS
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 262
2 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 242
3 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 226
4 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 222
5 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 220
6 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 214
7 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 204
8 5 PAUL KLINE READING 194
9 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 188
9 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 188
11 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 176
11 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 176
13 1 KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 174
14 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 172
15 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 172
16 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 164
17 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 158
18 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 154
19 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 124
20 16 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 122
21 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 116
22 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 112
22 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 112
24 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 106
25 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 88
26 W9 COLT HARRIS GORDON 84
27 4 JESSE STERLING LEHIGHTON 73
28 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 70
29 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 52
29 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 52
31 17 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 42
32 2 JOHN TSCHUDY BIRDSBORO 40
33 808 DENNIS HORVATH 38
34 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 28
35 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 24
36 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) 22
36 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 22
38 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 0
38 19 JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 0
38 178 NEIL HUBER 0


Coming Events:
Tues., May 10, 7:15 PM – Open Practice, No Membership Required. Open to Any Division with a Roll Cage.
Fri., May 13, 8 PM – NAPA Auto Parts Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners & 600cc Modifieds.
Fri., May 20, 8PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners, & ARDC Wingless Midget Twin-20’s.
Fri., May 27, 8 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds (Hoover Chevrolet Sportsman 50 Qualifier), Roadrunners.


KEITH HOFFMAN TAKES 1ST BIG DIAMOND ’05 IN NASCAR MODIFIEDS;
BILLY MOYER TOPS SPORTSMAN, BRENNAN GETS ROADRUNNER WIN


Minersville, PA – May 6, 2005 – Past champion Keith Hoffman of Whitehall, PA took his first win of the season at Big Diamond Raceway in the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified 25-lap feature on Friday night. It was a sweep for first time 2005 winners as Billy Moyer, Jr. of Pine Grove, PA beat the field in the Sportsman-Modifieds while Elvin Brennan of Forestville, PA topped the Roadrunners.

Hoffman’s Modified win came in the Johnny Rae owned, Fanelli Window Pros/Cocino Food Service Systems #1 Teo with Gechter Ford power. Hoffman started fifth and took the lead from Bobby Gunther Walsh (Allentown) on lap two. Hoffman saw point leader Duane Howard (Oley) move from fourteenth starting spot to second by lap eight. Even though Howard drew even with the leader several times on both the inside and the outside, Hoffman took the win over Howard. From lap 13 to the finish Jeff Strunk (Bethel) and Doug Hoffman (Allentown) swapped third spot on almost every lap with Doug edging Jeff at the finish. Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville) was fifth followed by Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing), last week’s winner Craig Von Dohren (Oley), Paul Kline (Reading), Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville) and Jeff Sechrist (Wernersville).

Billy Moyer, Jr. ended a long drought in the Sportsman feature, which was shortened to 16-laps by time limit. Moyer started second and overtook pole-sitter Louie Mitchalk (Tamaqua) on lap two to go on to the win. Gary Wagner, Jr. (Womelsdorf) came from fifteenth on the initial start to second on lap 13 but was settled for second followed by Ryan Moyer (Schuylkill Haven), Tom Brennan (Pottsville), Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg), Luke Wagner (Grantville), Greg Weiland (Port Carbon), Mitchalk, Ray Woodall, Jr. (Pen Argyl) and Brad Brightbill (Shillington).

Butch Solt (Lehighton) took the early roadrunner lead with Kevin Holland (Pine Grove) going on top on lap two. Holland saw Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven) take over on lap 10. Holland stayed with Hablett and made contact with the leader on the final lap. Hablett spun and Holland crossed the finish line first but the next in line, Elvin Brennan was given the win over Jake Smulley (Phoenix Park), last week’s winner Jason Sherman (Williamstown), rookie Ryan Olenick (Forestville) and Dave Schultz (Llewellyn).

Heat winners were Jeff Strunk, Bobby Gunther Walsh and Keith Hoffman in the Modifieds; Billy Moyer, Jr., Jason Hamilton (Erwinna) and 93 Ryan Moyer in the sportsman modifieds; and Tom Hablett and Kevin Holland in the Roadrunners. Ray Woodall, Jr. took the sportsman consolation.

The entire show, which started at 8PM, was completed by 10:40 PM.

Next week, the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners will be joined for the first time ever at Big Diamond by the 600cc Modifieds on Friday, May 13, at 8 PM as part of NAPA Auto Parts Night. One week later the ARDC Midgets take off the wings and join the NASCAR trio of divisions on Friday, May 20, with the midgets going in two 20-lap features and no heats. The 600 Mods and the ARDC Midgets will get the opportunity to get some track time this Tuesday night, May 6, at 7:15 at Big Diamond’s next open practice along with modifieds, sportsman modifieds, roadrunners, pro stocks, sprints, and other divisions.

BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY, Minersville, PA - RACE RESULTS - DATE: May 6, 2005
NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIEDS
25-lap Feature - $2000 to Win: 1 Keith Hoffman, Whitehall, PA; 2. 357 Duane Howard, Oley, PA; 3. 77 Doug Hoffman, Allentown, PA; 4. 88 Jeff Strunk, Bethel, PA; 5. 29 Ray Swinehart, Bechtelsville, PA; 6. 11D Doug Manmiller, Wyomissing, PA; 7. 70d Craig Von Dohren, Oley, PA; 8. 5 Paul Kline, Reading, PA; 9. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick, Pottsville, PA; 10. 42 Jeff Sechrist, Wernersville, PA; 11. 6SR Rick Schaffer; 12. 123 Roy Wiest; 13. 15 Dale Hartz; 14. 7X Tommy Sheetz, Jr.; 15. 83B Josh Biever; 16. 72 Jeff Ebersole; 17. 808 Dennis Horvath; 18. 4 Jesse Sterling; 19. 64W John Willman; 20. 24H Justin Andrews; 21. Sq1 Bobby Gunther Walsh; 22. 14 Rick Laubach; 23 11 Meme DeSantis; 24. 6 Dale Roth; 25. W9 Colt Harris; 26. 21T Jason Andrews; 27. 118 Sean Merkel; 28. 87 Andy Burkhart. DNS: 505 Randy Mohn.
Heat 1: 88, 70D, 72, 42, 77, 14, 15, 4, 505, 808.
Heat 2: Sq1, 7x, 87, 6SR, 357, 123, 6, 118, 64W, 102.
Heat 3: 1, 29, 11, 5, 11D, 83B, W9, 24H, 21T.

NASCAR SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS
16-lap Feature (shortened from scheduled 20-laps by time limit) - $600 to win: 1. 17 Billy Moyer, Jr., Pine Grove, PA; 2. 47 Gary Wagner, Jr., Womelsdorf, PA; 3. 93 Ryan Moyer, Schuylkill Haven, PA ; 4. 26 Tom Brennan, Pottsville, PA; 5. 99 Craig Whitmoyer, Hamburg, PA; 6. 3 Luke Wagner, Grantville, PA ; 7. 145 Greg Weiland, Port Carbon, PA ; 8. 147 Louie Mitchalk, Tamaqua, PA; 9. 72 Ray Woodall, Jr., Pen Argyl. PA; 10. 19 Brad Brightbill, Shillington, PA; 11. 515 Larry Lippencott, 12. 221 Rob Gibson, 13. 17R Kevin Nolf; 14. 8 Brad Force; 15. 157 Andy Fayash, Jr.; 16. 73 Darrel Herman; 17. 917 Jarrad Miller; 18. 10 Lowell Snyder; 19. KT3 Cory Renninger; 20. 95 Fred Fisher; 21. 8Jr Doug Hendricks; 22. 25 Ray Deemer; 23. 35 Ebby Ridge; 24. 15 Jason Hamilton; 25. 00 Adam Huff; 26. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer; 27. 144 Don Miller; 28. 43 Ray Masiado. DNQ: 110 Bill Finneran, 71 Chris James, 30 Carl Felty, 17T Ryan Grim, 59 Jason Kohler, 113 Jeff Sterner, 61 John Leindecker.
Heat 1: 17, 35, 515, 95, KT3, 917, 145, 144, 43, 30, 59, 61.
Heat 2: 15, 157, 221, 147, 10, 99, 8, 72, 73, 71, 113, 25.
Heat 3: 93, 19u, 8jr, 3, 47, 19, 26, 17T, 00, 17R, 110.
Consolation: 72, 43, 73, 144, 25, 00, 17R, 110, 71, 30, 17T, 59, 113, 61.

NASCAR ROADRUNNERS
15-lap Feature - $100 to win: 1. 555 Elvin Brennan, Forestville, PA; 2. 4 Jake Smulley, Minersville, PA; 3. 721 Jason Sherman, Williamstown, PA; 4. 550 Ryan Olenick, Forestville, PA; 5. 5 Dave Schultz, Llewellyn, PA; 6. 20 Corey Sechrist; 7. 8M Ken Eckert, Jr.; 8. 38 Butch Solt; 9. 17 Kevin Beach, 10. 37 Eric Pinkerton, 11. 8 Pete Gettis; 12. 22 Tom Hablett; 13. 66 Kevin Holland; 14. 11 Kirby Schlappich; 15. 93 Rob Pyle; 16. 7T7 Andy Fayash, III; 17. 39 Phil Levering; 18. 11X Joe Hendricks.


Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points - 4/29/05
CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN POINTS
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 765
2 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 705 1 WIN
3 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 670
4 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 650
5 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 645 1 WIN
6 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 625
7 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 620
8 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 595
9 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 575
10 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 560
11 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 550 1 WIN
12 5 PAUL KLINE READING 525
13 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 510
14 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 475
15 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 475
16 1 KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 460
17 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 455
18 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 450
19 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 440
20 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 425
21 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 410
22 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 410
23 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 380
24 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON 380
25 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 375
26 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 370
27 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 290
28 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 285
29 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON 260
30 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 250
31 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) 240
32 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 240
33 17 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 150
34 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 145
35 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 125
36 17 RYAN GRIM (rookie) 125
37 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 125
38 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 120
39 19 JORDAN UMBENHAUER(rookie) RICHLAND 120
40 178 NEIL HUBER 120

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Points - 4/29/05
CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN POINTS
1 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 580 1 WIN
2 145 GREG WEILAND POTTSVILLE 500
3 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 460
4 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 450
5 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 440
6 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 425 1 WIN
7 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 420
8 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 385
9 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 380
10 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 370
11 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 340
12 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 325
13 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN 320
14 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 320
15 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 315
16 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 300
17 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 300
18 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 295
19 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 295
20 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 295
21 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 285
22 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 265
23 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 250
24 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 250
25 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 245
26 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 245
27 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 245
28 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 240
29 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 240
30 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 240
31 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 160
32 110 BILL FINNERAN 120
33 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) 120
34 26X JOHN BUSH 120
35 147 LOUIE MITCHALK 120
36 17T RYAN GRIM 120

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Points - 4/29/05
CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN POINTS
1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 810
2 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 690 1 win
3 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 680 1 win
4 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 675
5 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 665
6 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 630
7 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 585
8 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 570
9 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 520
10 8 PETE GEDDAS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 505
11 38 BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 500
12 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 490
13 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 475
14 4 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 465 1 win
15 37 ERIC PINKERTON TOWER CITY 445
16 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 440
17 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 440
18 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 415
19 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 350
20 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 265

These are points for Big Diamond modified drivers only for Division I of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly
Series. When NASCAR begins publicizing the official division points, these points will include all drivers
from all tracks in the division.
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points - 4/9/05
CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN POINTS
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 194
2 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 180
3 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 172
4 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 170
5 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 160
6 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 160
7 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 160
8 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 160
9 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 150
10 5 PAUL KLINE READING 138
11 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 136
12 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 128
13 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 126
14 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 124
15 16 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 122
16 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 122
17 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 114
18 1 KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 104
19 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 102
20 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 90
21 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 84
22 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 84
23 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN 80
24 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 72
25 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 70
26 W9 COLT HARRIS GORDON 62
27 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN 58
28 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 52
29 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG 52
30 17 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 42
31 2 JOHN TSCHUDY BIRDSBORO 40
32 4 JESSE STERLING LEHIGHTON 37
33 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 28
34 17 RYAN GRIM 22
35 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY 22
36 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN 0
37 808 DENNIS HORVATH 0
38 19 JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 0
39 178 NEIL HUBER 0
40 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 0


Coming Events:
Fri., May 6, 8 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds (Hoover Chevrolet Sportsman 50 Qualifier), Roadrunners.
Tues., May 10, 7:15 PM – Open Practice Night, No Membership Required. Open to Any Division with Roll Cage.
Fri., May 13, 8 PM – Pottsville Auto Parts Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners and Excel 600cc Modifieds.


VON DOHREN TAKES 1ST BIG DIAMOND NASCAR MODIFIED WIN OF ’05;
MICHAEL CAPTURES URC OPENER; SHERMAN GRABS 1ST CAREER R’RUNNER


Minersville, PA - April 29, 2005 – Craig Von Dohren of Barto, PA piloted the Devine Transport #70D Modified to his first NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series feature win of the year and his track leading 55th career Big Diamond Raceway win on Friday night.

Defending URC Champion Curt Michael of Ocean View, DE won the 25-lap Advance Auto Parts URC Sprint Series opener and Jason Sherman of Williamstown, PA took his first career Big Diamond Raceway Roadrunner feature win. For Michael, it was his twenty-fourth career URC in and for car owners Pat and Cathy Palladino, it was their third consecutive year of winning the URC season opener.

Racing resumes at Big Diamond Raceway this Friday night, May 6, at the normal starting time of 8PM, featuring the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Roadrunners and the Sportsman-Modifieds in a feature event that will provide the winner with a guaranteed starting spot for the September Hoover Chevrolet and GM Performance Parts 50.

Von Dohren overtook early leader Andy Burkhart (Temple) and survived race long pressure from Jeff Strunk (Bethel) and Doug Hoffman (Allentown) in the closing laps to take the 25-lap NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified feature win. Hoffman took second followed by Strunk, Meme DeSantis (Temple), and Duane Howard (Oley). The next five finishers were Paul Kline (Reading), Rick Schaffer (Woxall), Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville), Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville) and John Willman (Birdsboro).

Trevor Lewis (Upper Black Eddy) started on the pole in the URC feature and charged away from Curt Michael at the drop of the green. But Michael caught the leader in traffic and took the lead on lap 18 following contact which left Lewis backwards on the backstretch. Michael took the win over the ageless veteran Gary Gollub (Mohnton), Scott Purcell (Frenchtown, NJ), Brian Seidel (Allentown), Jon Eldreth (Rising Sun, MD), Josh Weller (Mertztown), Ed Aikin (Lincoln University), Joe Zurzek (Robbinsville, NJ), Bill Brian, Jr. (Ephrata) and Scott McClaren (Freehold, NJ).

Jason Sherman took the lead in the 12-lap Roadrunner on lap 5 from Kevin Holland (Pine Grove) and never looked back. Holland held on for second followed by Elvin Brennan (Forestville), Kevin Beach (Llewellyn) and Ryan Olenick (Forestville).

Heat wins went to Andy Burkhart, Dale Hartz (Hamburg) and Von Dohren in the 33-car modified field and Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville) took the consolation honors. Kevin Welsh (Far Hills, NJ), Michael, Dave Ely (West Lawn) and Pete Green (Lehighton) took the URC heats in their 32-car field while Kyle Purks (Langhorne) was the 12-alp B-Main winner. Rookie Pete Gettis (Schuylkill Haven) and Kirby Schlappich (Temple) took the Roadrunner qualifying event wins.

The racing Gods threw track officials all they could handle with dark and threatening skies all around, problems in getting things rolling with accidents and emergencies delaying teams and officials yielding confusion and even modifieds that were locked together that eventually required some disassembly of the cars to separate them. But the officials of Big Diamond Raceway pressed hard to do all they could and beat the forecasted bad weather that arrived within an hour after the final checkered flag flew.

Andy Burkhart started on the pole of the NASCAR Modified 25-lap feature and took the early lead ahead of Craig Von Dohren and Dale Hartz as third place starter, Justin Andrews (Parryville) spun in turn four as the leaders completed lap one. It was tough from the drivers to develop any type of rhythm as The yellow flew for Shawn Fitzpatrick on lap two and then for rookie Colt Harris (Gordon) on lap three. By now Meme DeSantis has moved from seventh starting spot to third and Von Dohren decided it was time to go. Von Dohren went into turn one hard on the outside when the green returned and he charged into the lead. Jeff Strunk, who started eighth, timed a big move on the outside with Burkhart trying to settle in after he lost the lead to charged around Paul Kline, Dale Hartz, DeSantis and Burkhart to take second.

A pair of yellows followed on lap 9 and on the restart point leader Duane Howard, who was fifth behind Paul Kline, got caught by Ray Swinehart and their cars hooked in turn two causing a yellow. Although their cars were not noticeably damaged, their rub rails and bumpers got wedged together and could not be separated. Officials, track crew and pit crewmembers tried unsuccessfully to pull the cars apart. Air was actually released from the opposite tires of the cars to raise one and lower the other without success. Finally a sufficiently small lug wrench was found to remove a wheel from one of the cars and they were separated after a long delay.

When racing resumed defending Big Diamond modified point champion, Doug Hoffman was on the move. He charged to third on lap 13 while Jeff Strunk continued to try to find enough bite on the inside to get by the leading Von Dohren. Hoffman caught Strunk and two laps later he managed to go around him for second. Hoffman was able to make a run at Von Dohren but the leader only ventured a half groove off of the bottom and held off Hoffman.

Twenty-four cars started the 25-lap URC sprint feature with Trevor Lewis and Curt Michael starting in the front row as a result of the luck of the draw. At the drop of the green flag, Curt gunned to the lead but before the first lap was completed the red flag was displayed when Kramer Williamson broke an axle and flipped down the homestretch while, at the front of the pack, a six car tangle blocked the speedway in turn two which brought the field to a stop. Involved in the six car mishap was Kevin Welsh, Dave McGough (Sassamansville), Dave Ely, Tim Hogue (Medford, NJ) and Bill Brian Jr.

When the race resumed, Trevor Lewis had the jump and took the lead as Michael and Gary Gollub followed. Lewis, driving the Kennedy/Turpin #56 URC sprint car set a blistering pace and quickly ran to hide from the rest of the field. Michael on the other hand, was running a smooth and steady pace, almost like he was waiting for a strong finish.

The yellow flag was displayed on lap nine when Kyle Purks came to stop in turn three. The restart brought Michael to the rear bumper of Lewis but when the green flag fell, Lewis again ran off to hide. At the halfway mark of the race, Trevor was still on top followed by Michael, Gollub, Scott Pursell and Jon Eldreth.

The leader soon came upon slower traffic and this offered Michael his opportunity to take a run at the leader. As they completed lap eighteen, Michael challenged Lewis for the lead. Michael drew inside and even with Lewis coming off turn two and they made contact on the backstretch, with Lewis spinning into the infield. The yellow was displayed as Lewis returned to the pit area on the back of a tow truck.

With just five laps remaining, Curt Michael set the pace and maintained a strong lead to win the URC opener with Gollub collecting a strong second.

Jason Sherman joined the Big Diamond field of Roadrunners late last season and apparently learned very quickly. Kevin Holland started second in the Roadrunner 12-lapper after two drivers slated to start in front of him elected to start at the rear. Holland quickly outgunned Ken Eckert, Jr. (Minersville) to take the lead. Meanwhile Butch Solt (Lehighton) and Sherman, who started fourth and sixth respectively, weaved their way to second and third as they completed lap two. Solt bobbled on lap four and Sherman charged to second. The race’s only yellow came on lap 5 for the crossed up car of Robbie Pyle (Downingtown) in turn four. On the restart Sherman charged around the outside of Holland in turn two to take command and go on to win over Holland.

For more information on the racing at Big Diamond Raceway check out the speedway’s official web site at www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434. Racing resumes at Big Diamond Raceway this Friday night, May 6, at the normal starting time of 8PM for the remainder of the season for Friday night races.

The speedway will also be open for an open practice night on Tuesday, May 10, at 7:15 PM, which is open to all racing divisions with roll cages. A number of the 600cc Modifieds are expected to join the modifieds, sportsman, roadrunners, pro stocks, pure stocks, sprint cars and more. No membership is required and a $20 pit fee is charged. Spectators may view the session for no cost.

RACING RESULT SUMMARY – BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY – APRIL 29, 2005
NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIEDS
25-LAP FEATURE: 1. 70D Craig Von Dohren, 2. 77 Doug Hoffman, 3. 88 Jeff Strunk, 4. 11 Meme DeSantis, 5. 357 Duane Howard, 6. 5 Paul Kline, 7. 6SR Rick Schaffer, 8. 29 Ray Swinehart, 9. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick, 10. 64W John Willman, 11. 123 Roy Wiest, 12. 42 Jeff Sechrist, 13. 87 Andy Burkhart, 14. 83B Josh Biever, 15. 118 Sean Merkel, 16. 15 Dale Hartz, 17. 7X Tommy Sheetz, Jr., 18. SQ1 Bobby Gunther Walsh, 19. 4 Jesse Sterling, 20. 11D Doug Manmiller, 21. 14 Rick Laubach, 22. 24H Justin Andrews, 23. W9 Colt Harris, 24. 505 Randy Mohn, 25. 17 Ryan Grim, 26. 16 Jason Hamilton, 27. 1 Keith Hoffman, 28. 85 Bobby Forsythe. Non-Qualifiers: 19 Jordan Umbenhauer, 178 Neil Huber, 66 Bobby Trapper, 808 Dennis Horvath, 21T Jason Andrews.

10-lap Heats, 10-Lap Consi – 7 Qualify, 5 Handicapped from Heats
Heat 1: 87, 11D, 5, 64W, 24H, 83B, 118, 102, 7X, 178, 808.
Heat 2: 15, 88, 14, 42, 6SR, W9, 16, 505, 123, 85, 19.
Heat 3: 70D, 11, 357, 29, 77, 1, SQ1, 4, 17, 66, 21T.
Consi: 102, 505, 4, 17, 123, 7X, 85, 19, 178, 66, 808, 21T.

URC 25-LAP FEATURE FINISH: 1. 99 Curt Michael, 2. 36 Gary Gollub, 3. 1 Scott Pursell, 4. 6 Brian Seidel, 5. 25 Jon Eldreth, 6. 63 Josh Weller, 7. 19A Ed Aikin, 8. 50 Joe Zuczek, 9. 00 Bill Brian Jr., 10. 21 Scott McLaren, 11. 11x Pete Green, 12. 22E Luke Eriksen, 13. 17 Junior Martin, 14. 64K Kyle Purks, 15. 15 Mark Bitner, 16. 40 Mike Kostic, 17. 54 Chris Coyle, 18. 56 Trevor Lewis, 19. 2w Kevin Welsh, 20. 69 Justin Collett, 21. 5g Dave McGough, 22. 3 Dave Ely, 23. 39 Tim Hogue, 24. 73 Kramer Williamson. DNQ: 22 Dave Betts, 1x Jimmy Stitzel, 69R Warren Durbin, 19 Johnny Zimmerman, 18 Adam Gordon, 14 Will Urkuski, 08 Jason Clauss.

NASCAR ROADRUNNERS
15-LAP FEATURE – 1. 721 Jason Sherman, 2. 66 Kevin Holland, 3. 555 Elvin Brennan, 4. 17 Kevin Beach, 5. 550 Ryan Olenick, 6. 11X Joe Hendricks, 7. 11 Kirby Schlappich, 8. 22 Tom Hablett, 9. 20 Corey Sechrist, 10. 93 Robbie Pyle, 11. 38 Butch Solt, 12. 8 Pete Gettis, 13. 8M Ken Eckert, Jr., 14. 37 Eric Pinkerton, 15. 7T7 Andy Fayash, III.
Heat 1: 8, 17, 721, 8M, 93, 550, 37, 555.
Heat 2: 11, 38, 66, 22, 11x, 20, 7T7.


Coming Events: Fri., Apr. 29, 7:30PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Roadrunners and United Racing Club Sprints…...
Fri., May 6, 8 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds (Hoover Chevrolet Sportsman 50 Qualifier), Roadrunners…… T
ues., May 10, 7:15 PM – Open Practice Night, No Membership Required. $20 Pit Admission, Free Admission to Stands, Open to Any Division with Roll Cage……
Fri., May 13, 8 PM – Pottsville Auto Parts Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners and Excel 600cc Modifieds.

Big Diamond Sponsors Return for 2005…..
BAIR WHEEL REPAIR TO HONOR TOP BIG DIAMOND HEAT WINNERS IN ’05;
FRANNY’S HILLTOP SERVICE CENTER HALFWAY CHALLENGE SET FOR COAL CRACKER


Minersville, PA – April 28, 2005 - Art Bair of New Ringgold, PA will once again sponsor the Art Bair Racing Wheels and Wheel Repair heat win challenge for all three weekly divisions at the Big Diamond Raceway in 2005. The driver who captures the most modified heat wins during the year will be rewarded with $250. The leading 2005 Big Diamond sportsman modified heat winner will receive a bead lock wheel and the top heat winning roadrunner will earn a racing wheel.

In addition to the annual Art Bair Racing Wheel Heat Win Challenge, Art also sponsors the tire changing competition at the annual Big Diamond Raceway Pre-Season Car Show. Art has been a sponsor at Big Diamond nearly as long as his racing wheel repair business has been in existence. He’s at Big Diamond every race night and is available to pick-up wheels to be repaired and to deliver new or repaired wheels.

Another strong local supporter of racing at Big Diamond is Fran Purcell, Jr. and his Hilltop Service Center in Primrose just outside of Minersville, PA. Franny has guaranteed $500 toward the Franny’s Hilltop Service Center Halfway Challenge for this September’s Modified Coal Cracker Nationals. $500 will be divided among the top three at the midway point of the Coal Cracker Nationals. Purcell has indicated he is considering actually doubling his sponsorship to $1000 which could be divided among the top five at half way.

This will be the second year for the Franny’s Hilltop Halfway Challenge.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway, including sponsorship opportunities, contact JoAnn at the track office at (570) 544-6434. Information on Big Diamond Raceway can also be found at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


Coming Events: Fri., Apr. 29, 7:30PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Roadrunners and United Racing Club Sprints…... Fri., May 6, 8 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds (Hoover Chevrolet Sportsman 50 Qualifier), Roadrunners…… Tues., May 10, 7:15 PM – Open Practice Night, No Membership Required. $20 Pit Admission, Free Admission to Stands, Open to Any Division with Roll Cage…… Fri., May 13, 8 PM – Pottsville Auto Parts Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners and Excel 600cc Modifieds.

MOTHER NATURE GIVES JASON HAMILTON / DOUG FLURER 2 EXTRA WEEKS;
DEADLINE FOR BIG DIAMOND ‘DIVISION DECISION’ DELAYED BY 4/22 RAINOUT


Minersville, PA - April 26, 2005 – 2004 Hoover Chevrolet and GM Performance Parts 50 Champion, Jason Hamilton of Erwinna, PA and Modified car owner Doug Flurer, Nazareth, PA have been able to delay an important decision regarding racing at Big Diamond Raceway for the remainder of the year due to last week’s rain-out.

Hamilton has been racing in both his own #15 VanHorn-powered, Teo Sportsman Modified and the Doug Flurer #16 VanHorn-powered Teo Modified for the first two events of the season. But the extent of the eligibility to run both divisions ends after two races at Big Diamond. So Hamilton must now elect to be a regular in the Sportsman Modified class, where he is the point leader and a one-time winner this year, or the Modified class where he is the leading rookie and sixth in points.

Basically last week was to be the date for the decision but with that event being rained out and this week having the sportsman modifieds off for the first appearance of the URC Sprints, the decision now must be made by May 6.

If Hamilton elects to remain with the Sportsman Modifieds, he would still be able to compete in modified events on the Big Diamond schedule when the sportsman modifieds are not in action and the Georgie Stevenson Memorial. That would mean he could race with the Modifieds on April 29, July 1, July 22 and September 4 without impacting his Sportsman eligibility for 2005. He could also compete in the Race of Champions Modified dates on June 7 and August 9 with either a big block or small block modified.

Should he elect to compete in the Modified class, he would be able to compete in sportsman events on the Big Diamond schedule when the modifieds are not in action. Thus he would be able to drive his sportsman modified on June 28, August 9, and September 2.

Should Jason compete in any other Big Diamond Modified event when the Sportsman Modifieds are also on the schedule, it would count as a third appearance and he would not be eligible to compete in the Sportsman Modifieds after that date in 2005.

The divisions in which Hamilton may compete at other speedways has no impact on his status at Big Diamond Raceway.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway call the track office at (570) 544-6434 or check the Internet at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


Coming Events:
Fri., Apr. 29, 7:30PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Roadrunners and United Racing Club Sprints
Fri., May 6, 8 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds (Hoover Chevrolet Sportsman 50 Qualifier), Roadrunners
Tues., May 10, 7:15 PM – Open Practice Night, No Membership Required. Open to Any Division with Roll Cage
Fri., May 13, 8 PM – Pottsville Auto Parts Night. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners and Excel 600cc Modifieds.


RAIN STOPS BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY ACTION ON FRIDAY, APR. 22;
Curt Michael Wins in South Carolina Prep for URC at Big Diamond This Friday


Minersville, PA – April 22, 2005 – Rain and sharply colder temperatures forced Big Diamond Raceway to cancel their Friday, April 22, racing card.

Racing continues this Friday, April 29, at 7:30 PM with the United Racing Club sprint cars joining the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds and Roadrunners. The NASCAR Sportsman Modifieds are not on the April 29 card but will return on Friday, May 6, as part of a card to start at 8 PM.

Curt Michael of Ocean View, DE and the Palladino BK Leasing #99 ventured to the I-20 Speedway in Batesburg, SC as part of a “test and tune” for the URC 2005 Advance Auto Parts openers on Saturday night, April 23 at the Delaware International Speedway and Friday, April 29 at Big Diamond Raceway. The Michael/Paladino Team is apparently ready as Curt won the thirty lap USCS 360 sprint feature event on Saturday night. Michael, who started fifth, took the lead on lap ten and went on to score the victory over Paul Sides of Memphis, TN.

Michael will be a favorite when the URC gang invades Big Diamond Raceway next Friday night at 7:30. Big Diamond’s event is the second date on the 2005 URC schedule but if the same massive storm that wiped out racing at Big Diamond Friday also stops the opener slated for Delaware International Speedway on Saturday, April 23, the Diamond show will open URC’s season.

A large cast of contenders will be out to claim their first win of the URC season including Brian Seidel in the Mike Bostic 6, Kevin Welsh in the Davis/Welsh 2w, Dave McGough driving the GEI Bill Gallagher 5g, Kramer Williamson, Dave Ely, Tim Hogue, Jon Eldreth, Scott Pursell, Josh Weller, Pete Green (who participated in a Big Diamond hosted “test and tune” two weeks ago) and Kyle Purks just to name a few.

This will be the first of two events for the United Racing Club at Big Diamond Raceway. They make their return to the Minersville 3/8th-mile oval on Friday night, July 22.

Rick Laubach of Quakertown, PA and defending point champion, Doug Hoffman of Allentown, PA have opened the 2005 season at Big Diamond Raceway with NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified wins but Duane Howard of Oley, PA is the early season point leader. Among the stars set to battle this trio this Friday night are Doug Manmiller of Wyomissing, PA: Jeff Strunk of Bethel, PA; Craig Von Dohren of Barto, PA; Keith Hoffman of Whitehall, PA; Meme DeSantis of Temple, PA; Ray Swinehart of Bechtelsville, PA; Rick Schaffer of Woxall, PA; John Willman of Birdsboro, PA; Sean Merkel of Gilbertsville, PA and many others.

As always, for more information on Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or visit the speedway’s web site at bigdiamondraceway.com.


Last Chance for Roadrunner Division at Big Diamond
April 19, 2005

Because of ongoing and escalating problems involving drivers of the Roadrunner division, owner & promoter Fritz Roehrig, has decided that this Friday will be the deciding factor before implementing his plan to park his entire Roadrunner division for an undetermined length of time at Big Diamond Raceway in Minersville.

Because of events that have been happening both on and off the track, the severity of this discipline was necessary. “I simply will not sit back and have drivers dictate what happens at my place of business” Roehrig said. “When drivers and their families think they can control me, my officials, and define the racing environment at Big Diamond, the time has come for drastic measures; and this is one of them.”

Roehrig explains that the growing Roadrunner division is comprised of mostly local drivers, and along with their families, these are the people who are causing trouble on the track. “It’s wrong that a driver would enter a race for any other reason except to reach the finish line and keep his equipment in tact. Similarly, it’s wrong when they and their families are belittling other drivers, cursing them, and are apparently unable to express themselves in a positive and mature manner during the races,” said Roehrig. “These drivers and their families are totally out of control and their behavior will not be tolerated any longer. This is a fun division, an entry-level of racing to give guys the opportunity to get on the track and enjoy the sport without needing a lot of money to race. Without beginner divisions as this, guys would never be able to compete at a racetrack. But instead of being happy for the opportunity to race, some have lost perspective of what the division is about and allowed things to get out of hand.

“But no more!” said Roehrig. “We have worked hard to build a family-oriented environment at Big Diamond. We want entire families—and especially children—to come and enjoy the races. But when innocent kids and fans are forced to witness the negative behavior of adults who overreact to every single on-track occurrence their family member’s are involved in, then I’ll do whatever I must to protect my race fans, as well as the reputation of my business.”

“This punishment is well thought-out and fits the crime, said Fritz. “It is unacceptable that a driver thinks he can threaten me off the track and further believes I should be held accountable by the law for the behavior of other driver’s they don’t happen to like, and drivers who can beat them. Not only is a driver cutting short his racing career at Big Diamond, but his family will no longer be welcome at the track either. Yes, I am saying that these people better get some manners and quick; my business establishment is not their forum to demonstrate arrogance and ignorance. While they may disagree with track officials, it does not give them the right to be disrespectful,’ said Fritz.

“We don’t need drivers or fans with that type of mentality,” he continued. “If they want a demolition derby or a free—for—all, then organized racing is not for them. No where in any organized sport should the behavior of some, dictate the atmosphere for all. And with that being said, Roehrig’s decision to park the entire Roadrunner division for a yet-to-be-determined length of time, is on the horizon. “This Friday, April 22, I am ready to implement this new discipline. If the drivers and their families act normal, then nothing will happen. But if anyone starts again, I will respond immediately. We already know who they are and will be watching them,” Roehrig said. “The moment they regress to their former behavior, security will be there to escort them away. It’s pathetic that some people simply cannot enjoy racing because other drivers in the field can beat them. If they cannot take it, they should not participate in competitive sports.”

If and when the suspension of the Roadurunner division is lifted, any driver or his family in the grandstand who causes any trouble whatsoever, will be escorted off the property and will be banned from the track for the entire racing season.


Big Diamond Points 4/16

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Points 10-Apr 15-Apr TOTAL
CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN CAR FIN PTS CAR FIN PTS POINTS
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 357 3 265 357 3 265 530
2 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 14 1 300 14 6 220 520 1 WIN
3 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 11D 6 220 11D 2 280 500
4 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 29 5 235 29 5 235 470
5 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 64W 4 250 64W 9 190 440
6 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 6SR 2 280 6SR 13 160 440
7 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 77 28 125 77 1 300 425 1 WIN
8 16 JASON HAMILTON (rookie) ERWINNA 16 18 135 16 4 250 385
9 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 102 11 170 102 8 200 370
10 1 KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 1 24 125 1 7 210 335
11 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 88 7 210 88 NQ 120 330
12 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 11 8 200 11 21 125 325
13 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 118 14 155 118 11 170 325
14 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 42 9 190 42 NQ 120 310
15 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 15 12 165 15 17 140 305
16 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 21T 10 180 21T 20 125 305
17 5 PAUL KLINE READING 5 23 125 5 10 180 305
18 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 66 26 125 66 12 165 290
19 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 72 13 160 72 23 125 285
20 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 83B 19 130 83B 14 155 285
21 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 123 17 140 123 16 145 285
22 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 87 27 125 87 28 125 250
23 W9 COLT HARRIS (rookie) GORDON W9 NQ 120 W9 18 130 250
24 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 70D 25 125 70D 26 125 250
25 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 24H 20 125 24H 24 125 250
26 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 85 21 125 85 NQ 120 245
27 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN SQ1 NQ 120 SQ1 25 125 245
28 18 RON MYERS COATESVILLE 18 NQ 120 18 NQ 120 240
29 17 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 17 15 150 XXX XXX 0 150
30 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN XXX XXX 0 7X 15 150 150
31 2 JOHN TSCHUDY (rookie) BIRDSBORO 2 16 145 XXX XXX 0 145
32 4 JESSE STERLING (rookie) LEHIGHTON XXX XXX 0 4 19 135 135
33 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 57 22 125 XXX XXX 0 125
34 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG XXX XXX 0 505 22 125 125
35 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY XXX XXX 0 2T 27 125 125
36 6 DALE ROTH NEWMANSTOWN XXX XXX 0 6 NQ 120 120
37 808 DENNIS HORVATH (rookie) 808 NQ 120 XXX XXX 0 120

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Sportsman Modified Pts 10-Apr 15-Apr TOTAL
CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN CAR FIN PTS CAR FIN PTS POINTS
1 15 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 15 2 280 15 1 300 580
2 145 GREG WEILAND POTTSVILLE 145 3 265 145 5 235 500
3 26 TOM BRENNAN POTTSVILLE 26 10 180 26 2 280 460
4 157 ANDY FAYASH JR MARY-D 157 4 250 157 8 200 450
5 515 LARRY LIPPENCOTT RIEGELSVILLE 515 6 220 515 6 220 440
6 47 GARY WAGNER JR WOMELSDORF 47 1 300 47 20 125 425
7 8 BRAD FORCE SELLERSVILLE 8 7 210 8 7 210 420
8 43 JOE MASIADO (rookie) EASTON 43 NQ 120 43 3 265 385
9 19 BRAD BRIGHTBILL SHILLINGTON 19 5 235 19 16 145 380
10 99 CRAIG WHITMOYER HAMBURG 99 NQ 120 99 4 250 370
11 59 JASON KOHLER KUTZTOWN 59 9 190 59 15 150 340
12 8JR DOUG HENDRICKS AUBURN 8JR 8 200 8JR 24 125 325
13 KT3 CORY RENNINGER LLEWELLYN KT3 17 140 KT3 10 180 320
14 73 DARREL HERMAN ALLENTOWN 73 14 155 73 12 165 320
15 3 LUKE WAGNER GRANTVILLE 3 21 125 3 9 190 315
16 144 DON MILLER (rookie) NORTHAMPTON 144 19 130 144 11 170 300
7 221 ROB GIBSON SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 221 16 145 221 14 155 300
18 64 ANDY MILLER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 64 12 165 64 19 130 295
19 25 RAY DEEMER PHILLIPSBURG, NJ 25 18 135 25 13 160 295
20 95 FREDDIE FISHER WERNERSVILLE 95 15 150 95 18 135 285
21 17R KEVIN NOLF NAZARETH 17R 22 125 17R 17 140 265
22 35 EBBY RIDGE MILFORD, NJ 35 20 125 35 21 125 250
23 72 RAY WOODALL JR. PEN ARGYL 72 24 125 72 25 125 250
24 17 BILLY MOYER JR. PINE GROVE 17 NQ 120 17 26 125 245
5 71 CHRIS JAMES (rookie) MOHRSVILLE 71 23 125 71 NQ 120 245
26 93 RYAN MOYER SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 93 NQ 120 93 22 125 245
7 30 CARL FELTY (rookie) TAMAQUA 30 NQ 120 30 NQ 120 240
28 58 CHRIS ECKERT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 58 NQ 120 58 NQ 120 240
29 10 LOWELL SNYDER UPPER BLACK EDDY 10 NQ 120 10 NQ 120 240
30 19U JORDAN UMBENHAUER RICHLAND 19U 11 170 19U 23 15 185
31 39 TOM CREMER SINKING SPRING 39 13 160 XXX XXX 0 160
32 110 BILL FINNERAN XXX XXX 0 110 NQ 120 120
33 917 JARRAD MILLER (rookie) XXX XXX 0 917 NQ 120 120
34 26X JOHN BUSH XXX XXX 0 26X NQ 120 120
35 147 LOUIE MITCHALK XXX XXX 0 147 NQ 120 120
36 17T RYAN GRIM XXX XXX 0 17T NQ 120 120

Big Diamond NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Roadrunner Pts 10-Apr 15-Apr TOTAL
CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN CAR FIN PTS CAR FIN PTS POINTS
1 17 KEVIN BEACH LLEWELLYN 17 2 280 17 2 280 560
2 11 KIRBY SCHLAPPICH TEMPLE 11 10 180 11 1 300 480
3 4 JAKE SMULLEY PHOENIX PARK 4 1 300 4 12 165 465
4 5 DAVE SCHULTZ (rookie) LLEWELLYN 5 4 250 5 9 190 440
5 550 RYAN OLENICK (rookie) FORESTVILLE 550 6 220 550 6 220 440
6 29B RICKY BENDER JOLIETT 29B 5 235 29B 10 180 415
7 11X JOE HENDRICKS (rookie) AUBURN 11X 13 160 11X 4 250 410
8 555 ELVIN BRENNAN FORESTVILLE 555 18 135 555 3 265 400
9 22 TOM HABLETT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 22 15 150 22 5 235 385
10 721 JASON SHERMAN WILLIAMSTOWN 721 11 170 721 7 210 380
11 7T7 ANDY FAYASH, III (rookie) MARY-D 7T7 8 200 7T7 1 170 370
12 117 MARTY SHAPPELL POTTSVILLE 117 9 190 117 13 160 350
13 8 PETE GEDDAS (rookie) SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 8 7 210 8 19 130 340
14 38 BUTCH SOLT LEHIGHTON 38 19 130 38 8 200 330
15 93 ROB PYLE DOWNINGTOWN 93 12 165 93 16 145 310
16 37 ERIC PINKERTON TOWER CITY 37 17 140 37 15 150 290
17 66 KEVIN HOLLAND PINE GROVE 66 14 155 66 18 135 290
18 20 COREY SECHRIST (rookie) WOMELSDORF 20 16 145 20 7 140 285
19 8M KEN ECKERT JR. MINERSVILLE 8M 20 125 8M 14 155 280
20 39 PHIL LEVERING PARKERSBURG 39 3 265 XXX XXX 0 265

These are unofficial points for Big Diamond modified drivers only for Division I of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly
Series. When NASCAR begins publicizing the official division points, these points will include all drivers
from all tracks in the division.
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Division I Points 10-Apr 15-Apr TOTAL
CAR# DRIVER HOMETOWN CAR FIN PTS CAR FIN PTS POINTS
1 357 DUANE HOWARD OLEY 357 3 66 357 3 66 132
2 14 RICK LAUBACH QUAKERTOWN 14 1 70 14 6 60 130
3 11D DOUG MANMILLER WYOMISSING 11D 6 60 11D 2 68 128
4 29 RAY SWINEHART BECHTELSVILLE 29 5 62 29 5 62 124
5 64W JOHN WILLMAN BIRDSBORO 64W 4 64 64W 9 54 118
6 6SR RICK SCHAFFER WOXALL 6SR 2 68 6SR 13 46 114
7 102 SHAWN FITZPATRICK POTTSVILLE 102 11 50 102 8 56 106
8 16 JASON HAMILTON ERWINNA 16 18 36 16 4 64 100
9 118 SEAN MERKEL GILBERTSVILLE 118 14 44 118 11 50 94
10 77 DOUG HOFFMAN ALLENTOWN 77 28 22 77 1 70 92
11 15 DALE HARTZ HAMBURG 15 12 48 15 17 38 86
12 11 MEME DESANTIS TEMPLE 11 8 56 11 21 30 86
13 21T JASON ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 21T 10 52 21T 20 32 84
14 1 KEITH HOFFMAN WHITEHALL 1 24 24 1 7 58 82
15 83B JOSH BIEVER LANDINGVILLE 83B 19 34 83B 14 44 78
16 5 PAUL KLINE READING 5 23 26 5 10 52 78
17 123 ROY WIEST ELIZABETHVILLE 123 17 38 123 16 40 78
18 72 JEFF EBERSOLE CAMPBELLTOWN 72 13 46 72 23 26 72
19 66 BOB TRAPPER SCRANTON 66 26 22 66 12 48 70
20 88 JEFF STRUNK BETHEL 88 7 58 88 NQ 0 58
21 24H JUSTIN ANDREWS PARRYVILLE 24H 20 32 24H 24 24 56
22 42 JEFF SECHRIST WERNERSVILLE 42 9 54 42 NQ 0 54
23 87 ANDY BURKHART TEMPLE 87 27 22 87 28 22 44
24 70D CRAIG VON DOHREN OLEY 70D 25 22 70D 26 22 44
25 17 KEVIN HIRTHLER GREEN LANE 17 15 42 XXX XXX 0 42
26 7X TOMMY SHEETZ JR BOYERTOWN XXX XXX 0 7X 15 42 42
27 2 JOHN TSCHUDY BIRDSBORO 2 16 40 XXX XXX 0 40
28 W9 COLT HARRIS GORDON W9 NQ 0 W9 18 36 36
29 4 JESSE STERLING LEHIGHTON XXX XXX 0 4 19 34 34
30 85 BOBBY FORYTHE PERKIOMENVILLE 85 21 30 85 NQ 0 30
31 57 BILL GENSLER FLEETWOOD 57 22 28 XXX XXX 0 28
32 505 RANDY MOHN FREDERICKSBURG XXX XXX 0 505 22 28 28
33 SQ1 BOBBY GUNTHER WALSH ALLENTOWN SQ1 NQ 0 SQ1 25 22 22
34 2T TRACY READINGER OLEY XXX XXX 0 2T 27 22 22


NEXT BIG DIAMOND EVENTS:
Fri., Apr.22, 7:30P – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.
Fri., Apr.29, 7:30P – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds and Roadrunners and United Racing Club Sprint Cars.

DOUG HOFFMAN TAKES 1ST BIG DIAMOND NASCAR MODIFIED WIN OF 2005;
HAMILTON TOPS SPORTSMAN, ROADRUNNER WIN TO SCHLAPPICH


Minersville, PA – April 15, 2005 – Doug Hoffman of Allentown, PA piloted the Dennis Eisenhard owned, Kerry Hertzog Auto Sales / Westside Wood Products #77 NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified to his first win of the season at Big Diamond Raceway on Friday night. Hoffman is the defending Big Diamond Raceway and NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Northeast Regional champion.

Jason Hamilton of Erwinna, PA captured his first NASCAR Sportsman-Modified win of the season and moved into the division’s point lead in his Pipersville Garden Center / Flurer Machine and Tool #15. Kirby Schlappich of Temple, PA took his first career NASCAR Roadrunner win in the Stankiewicz Roofing #11.

Doug Hoffman started the 25-lap modified feature in second by the luck of the draw but on one of several caution interrupted initial starts, pole sitter Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville) developed a flat right rear putting Doug up front. Hoffman never looked pack with the HG Associates Ford powered Teo, holding off Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing) for the win. Duane Howard (Oley) finished third trailed by Jason Hamilton, Swinehart, opening day winner Rick Laubach (Quakertown), Keith Hoffman (Whitehall), Shawn Fitzpatrick (Pottsville), John Willman (Birdsboro) and Paul Kline (Reading).

Big Diamond Sportsman rookie, Joe Masiado of Easton, PA, took the early lead in the 20-lap Sportsman Modified feature and looked like a veteran leading through lap 13. But Jason Hamilton had moved from eleventh to second and on lap one he dove under the lead on lap 14. Contact was made and Hamilton went by to take the lead and the win. Defending track champion Tom Brennan (Pottsville) also slipped by Masiado to take second while Joe finished a strong third. Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg) finished fourth followed by Greg Weiland (Port Carbon), Larry Lippencott (Riegelsville), Brad Force (Sellersville), Andy Fayash, Jr. (Mary D), Luke Wagner (Grantville) and Cory Renninger (Llewellyn).

Dave Schultz (Llewellyn) took the early lead in the roadrunner feature but on lap 8 Kirby Schlappich, Jake Smulley (Phoenix Park) and Ryan Olenick (Forestville) came up on the leader running three wide and Schultz bobbled and was collected by Smulley with no where to go. Schlappich took command and never looked back, winning over Kevin Beach (Llewellyn), Elvin Brennan (Forestville), rookie Joey Hendricks (Auburn), and Tom Hablett (Schuylkill Haven). Roadrunner heat winners were Schlappich and Schultz.

The modified feature saw a flurry of caution causing incidents before a lap could be completed, including one when pole sitter Ray Swinehart got crossed up in turn two with a flat right rear which collected a dozen cars including Keith Hoffman, Rick Schaffer (Woxall), Rick Laubach , Craig Von Dohren (Barto), Meme DeSantis (Temple) and Jason Hamilton. That gave the lead to Doug Hoffman with Doug Manmiller, who started seventh, now second in the Dinatale-owned, Mid-Atlantic Vinyl Fence / Douglas Henry Builder #11D. Duane Howard, who started thirteenth, also avoided the tangles in the Norm’s Save Station / Mari-Al Auto Body Bicknell #357, also moved up to third.

Although Manmiller and Howard were fast, they did not have anything for Doug Hoffman on this night. Jason Hamilton, who will need to decide between the modifieds or the sportsman modifieds as of this coming Friday, charged back through the field in the Fluerer Machine #16 to take fourth from John Willman (Birdsboro) on lap three. Swinehart, Laubach and Keith Hoffman, who were involved in one of the first lap tangles also charged back up to take fifth through seventh by lap 15 with no changes in the closing laps.

Jeff Strunk (Bethel), who won the second modified heat, was forced to scratch from his eighth starting spot in the feature due to suspected engine damage during his heat in his BPG Racing / Chad Sinon Motorsports Teo #88. Rick Schaffer and Meme DeSantis also took heat wins while Sean Merkel (Gilbertsville) was the consolation winner.

Joe Masiado is a former Bridgeport driver with three feature wins but a rookie at Big Diamond in his own Valley Auto / Carpenters Union No. 600 Teo #43 drew the pole starting position and looked very smooth. Joe paced the field over Cory Renninger and Greg Weiland during the opening laps. Jason Hamilton, who started 11th, moved to second by lap 8 with Tom Brennan, who started beside Hamilton in 12th, took third a lap later. Hamilton pressured Masiado but ran out of patience and wedged his was under Joe on lap 14 in turn one.

Sportsman heat winners were Andy Fayash, Ryan Moyer (Schuylkill Haven) and Larry Lippencott while Brad Brightbill (Shillington) won the consolation.

Racing resumes this Friday night, April 22, at 7:30 featuring the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.

In two weeks, on Friday night, April 29, at 7:30 the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds and Roadrunners are joined by the United Racing Club Sprint Cars. Also not scheduled to race as Sportsman Modifieds, several of the sportsman competitors are expected to join the modifieds for this event.

As always, for more information on Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or visit the speedway’s web site at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.   

RACE RESULTS - April 15, 2005 BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY, Minersville (Forestville), PA
NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIEDS
25-lap Feature - 1. 77 Doug Hoffman, Allentown, PA ($2000); 2. 11D Doug Manmiller, Wyomissing, PA; 3. 357 Duane Howard, Oley, PA; 4. 16 Jason Hamilton, Erwinna, PA; 5. 29 Ray Swinehart, Bechtelsville, PA; 6. 14 Rick Laubach, Quakertown, PA; 7. 1 Keith Hoffman, Whitehall, PA; 8. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick, Pottsville, PA; 9. 64w John Willman, Birdsboro, PA; 10. 5 Paul Kline, Reading, PA; 11. 118 Sean Merkel; 12. 66 Bob Trapper; 13. 6sr Rick Schaffer; 13. 14. 83B Josh Biever; 15. 7X Tommy Sheetz, Jr., 16. 123 Roy Wiest; 17. 15 Dale Hartz; 18. 4 Jesse Sterling; 19. w9 Colt Harris; 20. 21T Jason Andrews; 21. 11 Meme DeSantis; 22. 505 Randy Mohn; 23. 72 Jeff Ebersole; 24. 24H Justin Andrews; 25. Sq1 Bobby Gunther Walsh; 26. 70D Craig Von Dohren; 27. 2T Tracy Readinger; 28. 87 Andy Burkhart. Scratched – 88 Jeff Strunk. Non-Qualifiers: 85 Bobby Forsythe; 18 Ron Myers; 6 Dale Roth; 42 Jeff Sechrist.
Heat 1: 6sr, 11D, Sq1, 83B, 87, 21T, w9, 24, 6, 42, 70D.
Heat 2: 88, 77, 5, 102, 357, 2T, 14, 123, 64w, 18, 85.
Heat 3: 11, 29, 15, 1, 4, 16, 7x, 118, 505, 72, 66.
Consolation: 118, 64W, 72, 70D, 123, 66, 505, 24H, 85, 18, 6, 42.

NASCAR SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS
20-lap Feature: 1. 15 Jason Hamilton, Erwinna, PA ($600); 2. 26 Tom Brennan, Pottsville, PA; 3. 43 Joe Masiado, Easton, PA; 4. 99 Craig Whitmoyer, Hamburg, PA; 5. 145 Greg Weiland, Port Carbon, PA; 6. 515 Larry Lippencott, Riegelsville, PA; 7. 8 Brad Force, Sellersville, PA; 8. 157 Andy Fayash, Jr., Mary D, PA; 9. 3 Luke Wagner, Grantville, PA; 10. KT3 Cory Renninger, Llewellyn, PA; 11. 144 Don Miller; 12. 73 Darrel Herman; 13. 25 Ray Deemer; 14. 221 Rob Gibson; 15. 59 Jason Kohler; 16. 19 Brad Brightbill; 17. 17R Kevin Nolf; 18. 95 Freddie Fisher; 19. 64 Andy Miller; 20. 47 Gary Wagner, Jr., 21 35 Ebby Ridge; 22. 93 Ryan Moyer; 23. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer; 24. 8jr Doug Hendricks; 25. 72 Ray Woodall, Jr.; 26. 17 Billy Moyer, Jr. Non-Qualifiers: 17T Ryan Grim, 58 Chris Eckert, 147 Louie Mitchalk, 917 Jarred Miller, 71 Chris James, 30 Carl Felty, 10 Lowell Snyder, 110 Bill Finneran, 26X John Bush.
Heat 1: 157, 47, 26, KT3, 73, 72, 17R, 144, 71, 26x. 147.
Heat 2: 93, 15, 43, 64, 17, 8, 19, 35, 25, 58, 917, 30.
Heat 3: 515, 145, 99, 19U, 221, 8jr., 59, 95, 3, 17T, 110.
Consi: 19, 59, 35, 144, 95, 3, 17R, 25, 17T, 58, 147, 917, 71, 30, 10, 110, 26X.

NASCAR ROADRUNNERS
15-lap Feature: 1. 11 Kirby Schlappich, Temple, PA; 2. 17 Kevin Beach, Llewellyn, PA; 3. 555 Elvin Brennan, Forestville, PA; 4. 11x Joey Hendricks, Auburn, PA; 5. Tom Hablett, Schuylkill Haven, PA; 6. 550 Ryan Olenick; 7. 721 Jason Sherman; 8. 38 Butch Solt; 9. 5 Dave Schultz; 10. 29B Ricky Bender; 11. 7T7 Andy Fayash, III; 12. 4 Jake Smulley; 13. 117 Marty Shappell, 14. 8M Ken Eckert, Jr.; 15. 37 Eric Pinkerton; 16. 93 Robbie Pyle; 17. 20 Corey Sechrist; 18. 66 Kevin Holland; 18. 8 Pete Geddas.
Heat 1: 11, 4, 117, 721, 17, 555, 20, 37, 8M.
Heat 2: 5, 550, 66, 8, 22, 38, 11, 29, 93, 7T7.


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY – PRACTICE PARTICIPANTS
WED., APR. 6, 2005 7:15 - 9:45 PM & TUES. APR. 12, 2005 7:15 - 9:15PM)


MODIFIEDS (14)
1 Keith Hoffman
4 Jesse Sterling
6jr Rick Schaffer
6sr Rick Schaffer
W9 Colt Harris
11 Meme DeSantis
11D Doug Manmiller
13 Lenny Leibold
14 Rick Laubach
21K Kyle Weiss
42 Jeff Sechrist
83B Josh Biever
87 Andy Burkhart
102 Shawn Fitzpatrick

SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS (25)
1M Katie Lyons
3H Mark Herman
K3 Cory Renninger
17 Billy Moyer
17T Ryan Grim
19U Jordan Umbenhauer
26 Tom Brennan
30 Carl Felty (Black Car)
30 Carl Felty (Red Car)
35 Ebby Ridge
47 Gary Wagner, Jr.
58 Chris Eckert
64 Andy Miller
66 Jason Rivers
71 Chris James
72 Ray Woodall, Jr.
73 Darrel Herman
95 Freddie Fisher
110 Bill Finneran
113 Jeff Sterner
114 Don Miller
145 Greg Weiland
157 Andy Fayash, Jr.
221 Rob Gibson
917 Jarrad Miller

ROADRUNNERS (16)
1 Dave Miller
4 Jake Smulley
5 Dave Schultz
8 Pete Gettis
9 Dave Kamp
11X Joe Hendricks
17 Kevin Beach
20 Corey Sechrist
22 Tom Hablett
23 Jim Somers, Sr.
29B Ricky Bender
66 Dave Lehr (Kevin Holland’s car)
550 Ryan Olenick
555 Elvin Brennan
721 Jason Sherman
7T7 Andy Fayash, III
STREET STOCK (1) - 25M Mark Berzowski
PRO STOCKS (2) - 15 Don Scheib and 23jr Jim Somers, Jr.
SPRINTS (6) – 1 Mark Smith. 1z Mark Smith, 1x Jimmy Stitzel (URC), 4 Pete Green (URC), 23B Jim Bewley (358), 48 Wes Irwin
ENDURO (4) –33 Marty Hoysock, 33s Brian Sipe, 34 Eric Ankenbrandt, 46 Kevin Brown.


NEXT BIG DIAMOND EVENT(S):
Tues., Apr.12, 7:15PM: Open Practice, Any Division, No Membership, $20 Pit Fee, Fans Free to Stands
Friday, April 15, 7:30PM: NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners

LAUBACH TOPS STELLAR OPENING DAY FIELD FOR 1ST BIG DIAMOND MODIFIED WIN;
WAGNER TOPS SPORTSMAN FIELD, SMULLEY OPENS WITH ROADRUNNER VICTORY


Minersville, PA – April 10, 2005 – Rick Laubach of Quakertown took the Opening Day NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified win at Big Diamond Raceway on Sunday evening. It was Laubach’s first career win.

Gary Wagner, Jr. of Womelsdorf topped the Sportsman Modified 20-lap feature while Jake Smulley of Phoenix Park watched the leaders take each other out and snuck through to take the Roadrunner feature win.

"This is great," Laubach said. "The caliber of guys who race at Big Diamond is extremely competitive. It feels good to get a win this early in the year."

Laubach started third in the 25-lap NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified 25-lap main event. John Willman (Birdsboro) powered off the pole to take the early lead. A pair of crashes, involving 5 car and 7 cars respectively, interrupted the early action and eliminated defending track champion, Doug Hoffman (Allentown, PA). When they returned to racing, Laubach asserted himself and took the lead from Willman on lap two.

"That meant a lot to get the lead so early," Laubach said. "I didn't know what was going on behind me. I was only concerned with what was going on in front. You can't worry about the other stuff. I knew some of those other top guys would be coming."

They ran green until the yellow flew with 15 laps complete. During that time Laubach never looked back and saw his lead grow and then shrink and then grow again as he battled through the tail end of the field starting on lap 9. Meanwhile Willman and Rick Schaffer (Woxall), who started fourth, battled through the same slower cars and with one another for second spot. The lap 16 restart saw Schaffer get under Willman with Duane Howard (Oley), who started seventh following through into third.

The yellow flew one more time with 24 of 25 complete, but Laubach had enough to hold off Schaffer to take the win in Dick Biever’s Van Horn Chevy powered, Werner’s Auto Body Teo Pro #14. Schaffer finished second followed by Howard, Willman, Ray Swinehart (Bechtelsville), Doug Manmiller (Wyomissing), Jeff Strunk (Bethel), Meme DeSantis (Temple), Jeff Sechrist (Womelsdorf) and Jason Andrews (Parryville). Strunk and DeSantis were the drivers who made the biggest moves, coming from 15th and 17th staring spots respectively.

Heat winners were Howard, Manmiller, and Ray Swinehart while John Tschudy (Birdsboro) captured the consolation.

Gary Wagner went wire-to-wire from the pole position to take the 20-lap Sportsman Modified feature win, but it was anything but easy. Wagner held off Freddie Fisher (Reading) for the opening two laps before yellow fever struck. A lap three yellow for a one car spin was followed by three more sets of tangle and spin causing yellows. The second of those three aborted restarts saw Jason Hamilton (Orwinna), who had charged from sixth to third, got a nose under Fisher entering two. There was some contact with Fisher spinning and Hamilton taking second.

Hamilton tried every move in the book and a few times there was minor contact, but Gary Wagner was not to be denied. Wagner took his third career Big Diamond Sportsman win over Hamilton, Greg Weiland (Port Carbon), Andy Fayash, Jr. (Mary-D), Brad Brightbill (Shillington), Larry Lippencott (Riegelsville), Brad Force (Sellersville), Doug Hendricks (Auburn), Jason Kohler (Kutztown) and defending champion, Tom Brennan.

Sportsman heat winners were Hamilton, Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg) and Jordan Umbenhauer (Richland) while the consolation honors went to Luke Wagner (Grantville).

The roadrunners met the track challenge to provide a 20-car or better field, so they were racing for $200 to win instead of the usual 4100. That brought out the best (or worst) in the competitors. Kevin Holland (Pine Grove) took the early lead while rookie Joey Hendricks (Auburn) chased him. On lap six Hendricks slipped under Holland but on lap 9 Holland was back on top. The war was on and as they exited turn four on lap 10 they tangled, bounced of the front stretch wall and took themselves out as well as collecting third place Marty Shappell (Pottsville) and Jason Sherman (Williamstown).

Rookie Dave Schultz (Llewellyn) assumed the lead but Kevin Beach (Llewellyn) moved by both Schultz and Jake Smulley (Phoenix Park) to take command on the restart. Smulley got by Schultz on lap 13 and pulled even with Beach as they completed lap 14. Smulley held the inside line and was able to pull ahead to take the win in the 15-lap event.

Beach held on for second followed by the long distance traveler, Phil Levering of Parkersburg, Schultz, and Ricky Bender (Joliett). Heat winners were Holland and Hendricks.

Action continues at Big Diamond on Tuesday night, April 12 with another open practice session at 7:15. The practice is open to any racing division with no membership required. The pit fee is $20 while spectators can watch the test and tune session for free.

Competition shifts to Friday night for the rest of the year on Friday, April 15, at 7:30PM. The NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, and Roadrunners will compete in their second event of the year.

For information on Big Diamond Raceway, call (570) 544-6434 or take a look at the track’s web site at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.   

NOTES – Jason Hamilton was competing in both a modified and a sportsman modified today. He was a part-time Big Diamond sportsman rookie in 2004. As he is considering moving up to the modifieds, he will be allowed one more week to run both divisions. He will then be required to remain in the sportsman or move to the modifieds for the season. Whatever his choice, he will be able to run the other car in special events during the year as well.

RACE RESULTS - BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY, Minersville, PA April 10, 2005
NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES MODIFIED - 25-LAP FEATURE - $2000 TO WIN
1. 14 Rick Laubach, 2. 6sr Rick Schaffer, 3. 357 Duane Howard, 4. 64W John Willman, 29 Ray Swinehart, 11D Doug Manmiller, 7. 88 Jeff Strunk, 8. 11 Meme DeSantis, 9. 42 Jeff Sechrist, 10. 21T Jason Andrews, 11. 102 Shawn Fitzpatrick, 12. 15 Dale Hartz, 13. 72 Jeff Ebersole, 14. 118 Sean Merkel, 15. 117 Kevin Hirthler, 16. 2 John Tschudy, 17. 123 Roy Wiest, 18. 16 Jason Hamilton, 19. 83B Josh Biever, 20. 24H Justin Andrews, 21. 85 Bobby Forsythe, 22. 57 Bill Gensler, 23. Paul Kline, 24. 1 Keith Hoffman, 25. 70d Craig Von Dohren, 26. 66 Bob Trapper, 27. 87 Andy Burkhart, 28. 77 Doug Hoffman. DNQ: Sq1 Bobby Gunther Walsh, W9 Colt Harris, 808 Dennis Horvath, 18 Ron Myers.

NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES SPORTSMAN MODIFIED 20-Lap Feature, $600 to win
1. 47 Gary Wagner, Jr., 2. 15 Jason Hamilton, 3. 145 Greg Weiland, 4. 157 Andy Fayash, Jr., 5. 19 Brad Brightbill, 6. 515 Larry Lippencott, 7. 8 Brad Force, 8. 8jr Doug Hendricks, 9. 59 Jason Kohler, 10. 26 Tom Brennan, 11. 19U Jordan Umbenhauer, 12. 64 Andy Miller, 13. 39 Tom Cremer, 14. 73 Darrell Herman, 15. 95 Freddie Fisher, 16. 221 Rob Gibson, 17. KT3 Cory Renninger, 18. 25 Ray Deemer, 19. 144 Don Miller, 20. 35 Ebby Ridge, 21. 3 Luke Wagner, 22. 17R Kevin Nolf, 23. 71 Chris James, 24. 72 Ray Woodall, Jr. DNQ: 99 Craig Whitmoyer (Scratched), 58 Chris Eckert, 10 Lowell Snyder, 17 Billy Moyer, Jr., 30 Carl Felty, 93 Ryan Moyer, 43 Joe Masiado.

NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES ROADRUNNER 15-LAP FEATURE - $200 TO WIN
1. 4 Jake Smulley, 2. 17 Kevin Beach, 3. 39 Phil Levering, 4. 5 Dave Schultz, 5. 29B Ricky Bender, 6. 550 Ryan Olenick, 7. 8 Pete Gettis, 8. 7T7 Andy Fayash, III, 9. 117 Marty Shappell, 10. 11 Kirby Schlappich, 11. 721 Jason Sherman, 12. 93 Rob Pyle, 13. 11X Joe Hendricks, 14. 66 Kevin Holland, 15. 22 Tom Hablett, 16. 20 Corey Sechrist, 17. 37 Eric Pinkerton, 18. 555 Elvin Brennan, 19. 38 Butch Solt, 20. 8M Ken Eckert, Jr.


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6, 2005 PRACTICE SESSION (7:15 PM - 9:45 PM) - 54 CARS


MODIFIEDS (14)
1 Keith Hoffman
4 Jesse Sterling
6jr Rick Schaffer
6sr Rick Schaffer
W9 Colt Harris
11 Meme DeSantis
11D Doug Manmiller
13 Lenny Leibold
14 Rick Laubach
21K Kyle Weiss
42 Jeff Sechrist
83B Josh Biever
87 Andy Burkhart
102 Shawn Fitzpatrick

SPORTSMAN MODIFIEDS (18)
1M Katie Lyons
3H Mark Herman
K3 Cory Renninger
17 Billy Moyer
17T Ryan Grim
19U Jordan Umbenhauer
26 Tom Brennan
30 Carl Felty
35 Ebby Ridge
47 Gary Wagner, Jr.
58 Chris Eckert
71 Chris James
72 Ray Woodall, Jr.
73 Darrel Herman
95 Freddie Fisher
145 Greg Weiland
157 Andy Fayash, Jr.
221 Rob Gibson

ROADRUNNERS (15)
1 Dave Miller
4 Jake Smulley
5 Dave Schultz
8 Pete Gettis
9 Dave Kamp
11X Joe Hendricks
17 Kevin Beach
20 Corey Sechrist
22 Tom Hablett
23 Jim Somers, Sr.
29B Ricky Bender
66 Dave Lehr (Kevin Holland’s car)
550 Ryan Olenick
555 Elvin Brennan
721 Jason Sherman
STREET STOCK (1) - 25M Mark Berzowski
PRO STOCKS (2) - 15 Don Scheib and 23jr Jim Somers, Jr.
SPRINTS (3) – 1 Mark Smith. 1z Mark Smith, 48 Wes Irwin
ENDURO (1) – 33 Marty Hoysock


Coming Events:
Wed., Apr.6, 7:15PM – Open Practice, Any Divisions, $20 Pit Admission, Free Admission to Stands
Sun., Apr.10, 4 PM – Season Opener. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.
Tues., Apr.12, 7:15 PM – Open Practice, Any Divisions, $20 Pit Admission, Free Admission to Stands.
Fri., Apr.15, 7:30 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds., Roadrunners.


RAIN STOPS BIG DIAMOND OPENER, RESET FOR SUNDAY, APRIL 10, 4 PM;
OPEN PRACTICE ADDED THIS WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6, 7:15 PM


Minersville, PA – April 3 – A weekend of heavy rain followed by snow flurries and colder temperatures forced the 2005 season opener at Big Diamond Raceway to be postponed from Sunday, April 3, to Sunday, April 10 at 4PM.
Additionally track promoter Fritz Roehrig has decide to hold a practice session this Wednesday evening, April 6, at 7:15 PM. The practice will not only give racing teams an opportunity to get some laps in on the track but it will help insure the track will be ready for Sunday’s rescheduled opener, should the weather cooperate.
“We were able to get the graders and trucks on the track and run-in last Thursday after the heavy rain early in the week,” shared Roehrig. “Because of that work, the even heavier rain this weekend is something we should be able to handle. Getting cars on the track Wednesday will further our efforts to not only race but to provide a good surface for Sunday.”
“We just decided this late tonight (Sunday) and I know many teams may not be able to get here on Wednesday,” continued Fritz, “but, although we’d like to see a good car count, we really are doing this to go through a track prep cycle including some racing so it is tight again for the rain on Thursday and Friday. We want to race on Sunday!”
The Wednesday practice is open to any divisions and no memberships are required. A $20 pit fee will be charged with fans admitted free to the stands. Practice will start at 7:15 PM with gates opening at 5:30PM.
On Sunday, April 10, the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners will get their first competitive green flag of the year. Racing is slated to start at 4PM. Gates will open for the fans at 2PM but pit gates will open at 1 PM.
There is another open practice on the Big Diamond schedule for Tuesday night, April 12, at 7:15 PM and then the racing returns on Friday night, April 15, for the modifieds, sportsman and roadrunners at 7:30.
Fan interest is running high in anticipation of the 2005 season, as the extremely high level of competition of last year in the modifieds should be turned up a notch or two. 2004 champion Doug Hoffman returns looking for his fifth Big Diamond title. His brother Keith Hoffman is seeking for his fourth Diamond championship and all other 2004 feature winners, Doug Manmiller, Craig Von Dohren and Sean Merkel are also expected to be in action as well as Meme DeSantis, Rick Laubach, Jason Hamilton, and Rick Schaffer.
Reigning Grandview Speedway champion, Jeff Strunk plans to return as a weekly regular at Big Diamond, after a brief hiatus, looking to add to the four Big D championship on his record. And the guy they are all chasing, five-time Big Diamond modified champ, Duane Howard will also be returning after only racing big block modifieds on Saturdays for the past two years.
Craig Von Dohren may not have been able to crack the season champions list but he leads the way as the track’s all-time leading modified feature winner with 52. But you can get away from those past champions. The next four spots on the career winners’ list are Duane Howard 47, Keith Hoffman 31, Doug Hoffman 31 and Jeff Strunk 24.
For more information, the phone number for Big Diamond Raceway is (570) 544-6434. Directions, racing schedule and other information on the speedway can be seen on the track web site at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


Coming Events:
Sunday, April 3, 2 PM NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Opening Day.
Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.
Sunday, April 10. 4 PM NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.
Friday, Apr. 15, 7:30 PM NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.

BIG DIAMOND CANCELS MARCH 26 PRACTICE

Minersville, PA – March 25, 2005 – Big Diamond Raceway officials have decided to cancel the practice session set for Saturday afternoon. March 26. The track is still far too wet to provide any opportunity this weekend to get track equipment or racing cars around the three-eighth mile oval. The Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners are still scheduled to open the season on Sunday, April 3, at 2 PM with gates opening at 10 AM.

Racing will continue on Sunday, April 10, at 4 PM before racing moves under the lights on Friday night, April 15 at 7:30. Both of these events will feature the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners.

For more information on Big Diamond Raceway check the track’s official web site at www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434.


Coming Events:
Saturday, March 19– 1 PM – Open Practice - CANCELED – Snow cover.
Saturday, March 26 – 1 PM 2 PM - Micro Sprint Spring Open - CANCELED. Daily freeze/thaw
prevents track from being acceptable for light weight, small tires of Micro Sprints.
Open Practice will be held starting one hour later at 2 PM.
Sunday, April 3 – 2 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Opening Day.
Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.


NIGHTLY FREEZE CAUSES BIG DIAMOND TO POSTPONE MICRO SPRINTS;
OPEN PRACTICE WILL STILL BE HELD SATURDAY (Mar. 26) AT 2 PM


Minersville, PA – March 19, 2005 – Big Diamond Raceway has decided to cancel the Micro Sprint Spring Open set for Saturday, March 26. The event has been rescheduled for September 24 and entry fees already received in advance from over 40 competitors will be returned.
An open practice is still scheduled for this Saturday, March 26 at 2 PM. The practice is open to any divisions and no memberships are required. A $20 pit fee will be changed with fans admitted free to the stands.
The track still has some of snow covering it and although forecasts call for high temperatures in the upper 30s this week, the low temperatures are to still fall into the upper teens. The daily freeze/thaw forecasted throughout the next ten days has forced promoter Fritz Roehrig to call the race off. The fear is that the track surface could be too rough and potentially cause serious issues for the light weight micro-sprints with their narrow tires.
“The response to this micro sprint date has been great but we just do not want to put the teams in a bad situation or leave them with a bad feeling about Big Diamond if the track conditions were not acceptable,” shared Roehrig. “We feel comfortable with heavier cars with normal sized or larger tires running on the surface but we do not want to risk costing the micro teams equipment particularly this early in their racing season. The practice will enable the larger stock and full-sized sprint car teams to help us prepare for next week as well. We thank the teams that planned to support the event and look forward to seeing them in September.”
The speedway is looking at the possibility of running a mid-week show for the Micros during the year to show their support and interest in the class but do not wish to cause any conflicts with current micro-sprint speedways. If a suitable date can be found, an announcement will follow.
Now Big Diamond will open the 2005 racing season with the Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners begin one of the most anticipated seasons of weekly Big Diamond competition on Sunday, April 3, at 2 PM. Gates will open at 11 AM.
For more information on Big Diamond Raceway check the track’s official website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434. Anyone requiring rulebooks or membership forms for the track’s NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series divisions may request one by mailing an addressed envelope with two stamps affixed along with their address to Big Diamond Raceway Rulebook, PO Box 298, Minersville, PA 17954.


Coming Events:
Saturday, March 19, 1 PM - Open Practice - CANCELED, SNOW COVER.
Saturday, March 26, 1 PM - Micro Sprint Spring Open. 270cc Micros, 600cc Micros, 600cc Modifieds. Also Open Practice.
Sunday, April 3, 2 PM - - - - NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Opening Day. Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.
Sunday, April 10, 4 PM - - - - NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Opening Day. Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.


BIG DIAMOND TO ROADRUNNERS, “MORE CARS, MORE MONEY”

Minersville, PA – March 16, 2005 - Big Diamond Raceway has announced a new incentive program for the NASCAR Roadrunners. Starting with the season opener this year, anytime the roadrunner class has 20 or more cars starting their feature, that feature purse will be raised by $200.
While much of the focus of NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series competition at Big Diamond Raceway seems to be on the Modifieds and the Sportsman Modifieds, the entry level Roadrunner class often gets overlooked. Although they race for $100 to win, the competitors put on some of the most competitive racing you will find on dirt tracks today.
“The field of cars seemed to be growing at the close of 2004 after dropping off to 10 to 12 car fields a year or two ago,” shared Big Diamond race director, Jeff Gromis. “We want to grow the roadrunners from those late season mid-teen car counts, so anytime we have 20 or more roadrunners, we will pay $200 to win. But this is not a single spot increase. Second place will pay the $100 normally paid to the winner. Third place will be paid the usual second place money and so on through the field.”
The 2005 Big Diamond racing season opens with a pre-season special event. The 270cc Micro Sprints, the 600cc Micro Sprints and the 600cc Modifieds will start the season with a special Micro Sprint Spring Open on Saturday afternoon, March 26, at 1 o’clock. As the originally scheduled open practice session slated for March 19 has been canceled by the weather and snow cover, the speedway also will allow practice laps following the racing program for all divisions of auto racing.
The regular season kicks-off with a Sunday afternoon card of NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners on April 3. Gates will open at 11 and the first heat is slated for 2 PM.
Another Sunday afternoon show follows on April 10 with a 4 PM starting time before the action shifts to weekly Friday night action on April 15. The early season Friday shows will carry a 7:30 starting time.
For more information on Big Diamond Raceway check the track’s official website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434.


BIG DIAMOND PART OF NEW RACE OF CHAMPIONS DIRT TRACK SERIES;
INCLUDES BIG BLOCK/SMALL BLOCK COMBO SERIES & SPORTSMAN TOUR


Minersville, PA - Race of Champions Motorsports has aligned with northeast dirt tracks including Big Diamond Raceway to form the Race of Champions Dirt Modified Tour for the upcoming 2005 racing season. The tour will feature combined big block/small block modified events at a number of different facilities throughout the northeast this season. The first tour event is slated for Fonda Speedway with the running of the annual Ice Jam on Saturday, April 9th.
In addition to the combined big block/small block RoC Dirt Modified Tour, there will also be a RoC Dirt Sportsman Tour.
Big Diamond Raceway has two RoC modified races and two RoC sportsman races scheduled. The tentative dates are June 7 (RoC Modified 75) with a June 15 rain date, June 28 (RoC Sportsman 40) and August 9 (RoC Modified 75 and Sportsman 40) with an August 10 rain date.
The tour will be catered toward the weekly short track racer with a limited number of mid-week specials with strong modified purses that will pay $4,000 to win each. A solid season ending point fund will also be in place for the top teams that follow the tour during the 2005 campaign. A blend of hometrack rules will make the Race of Champions Dirt Modified Tour a driver friendly trail to follow for all of the competitors.
Cory Reed, the Orange County Fair Speedway co-promoter will serve as the Competition Director of the tour with Five Mile Point Speedway owner and Race of Champions President Andrew Harpell taking the role of Administrative Director.
The newly formed Race of Champions Dirt Modified Tour held a very successful informational meeting at the 19th Annual Carquest Auto Parts Motorsports Expo on Saturday, March 12th, with a large crowd of drivers, car owners and interested parties in attendance.
Reed commented on the new tour, "There has been a great deal of excitement already generated among the participating speedways. This has been a complete team effort among the northeast track owners and general managers.
"With regards to the Race of Champions involvement Harpell remarked, "The Race of Champions identity is a natural fit for the new tour as it is based on the same concept of our Asphalt Modified Tour. We want to support the weekly racers by providing them with strong paying events at the best venues in the northeast. The Race of Champions started on dirt at the one-mile Langhorne Speedway so, in a sense, this is a return to its roots."
The list of participating venues is an impressive one with the possibility of other facilities being added to the mix in the weeks to come. The tour will go green on Saturday, April 9th at Fonda Speedway with the running of the annual Ice Jam event. In addition to Fonda and Big Diamond, participating speedways include: Five Mile Point Speedway, Orange County Fair Speedway, Penn Can Speedway, Ransomville Speedway and Utica Rome Speedway. The combined efforts of all the facility owners will help to make the tour a very exciting avenue for competitors and spectators alike. The theme of being a driver friendly tour will be emphasized throughout the summer months. All of the events will lead up to the season ending Eastern States Weekend at the Orange County Fair Speedway on October 21 - 23.
With the tradition of the Race of Champions name partnered with the rich tradition of the participating speedways the 2005 tour will be pure dirt track excitement. The dirt tour will complement the Race of Champions Asphalt Modified race, the second longest running event in the United States.
RoC has already signed an agreement with Lias Tire that will make American Racer tires the official tire of the 2005 racing campaign. The American Racer Tires will be the exclusive tire on both the Big Block/Small Block Modified and Sportsman Modified Tours.
The decision was based on a number of factors including the current number of existing facilities running the American Racer Tires. Teams would be required to run on American Racers on all tour events this season. The only exception would come at facilities currently running Hoosier Tires on their weekly Modified or Sportsman divisions. At those events approved American Racer and Hoosier Tire compounds will be permitted.
Harpell stated, "We are looking forward to working with the staff from Lias Tire. The decision to implement the American Racer Tire will help make costs for the tour competitors more manageable. Teams will not have to purchase huge quantities of tires from different manufacturers to find out which tire would be the best."
"The number of existing facilities running the American Racer Tire will certainly allow many more teams to compete on the 2005 RoC Dirt Tours," commented Reed. "Our initial response from the race teams has been extremely positive and we can't wait to the first event at Fonda Speedway."
Any facility that the tour stops will see their weekly American Racer compounds permitted along with an additional American Racer compound option. With the extra distance events scheduled this will certainly make for an interesting mix of drivers for the spectators. For the drivers, the hometrack teams won't be required to make any changes to compete in these tour races. This should provide for large fields of teams at each tour event.
“This is consistent with the series rules which will require cars in competition at a RoC event at a track to either meet RoC rules or that track’s rules,” shared Big Diamond race director, Jeff Gromis. “Thus our Big Diamond modified and sportsman modified teams will be able to participate in the Big Diamond RoC events without any changes to their cars.”
The 2005 tour schedule will be released shortly along with the dates for a companion Race of Champions Dirt Sportsman Tour. For additional information please phone Cory Reed at (315) 374-1168 or Andrew Harpell at (607) 238-0432. The official website can be found at www.rocdirt.
The 2005 Big Diamond racing season opens with the 270cc Micro Sprints, the 600cc Micro Sprints and the 600cc Modifieds on Saturday afternoon, March 26, at 1 o’clock. The speedway also will allow practice laps following the racing program for all divisions of auto racing that may want practice time.
The official regular season opener follows a week later as the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners get their first taste of competition on Sunday afternoon, April 3, at 2 PM with a full card of stock car racing.
For more information on Big Diamond Raceway call (570) 544-6434 or check the track’s official website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.   


2005 BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY SCHEDULE

BOX 298 (FORESTVILLE), MINERSVILLE, PA 17952 570-544-6434 FAX: 570-544-6720 www.bigdiamondraceway.com   
NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified Stock Cars, Sportsman Modified Stock Cars & Roadrunners
Sat., March 19 1:00 PM Open Practice - CANCELED
Sat., March 26 1:00 PM Micro Sprint Spring Open (270cc and 600cc), 600cc Modifieds plus Open Practice
Sun., April 3 2:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners
Sun., April 10 4:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners
Tues., April 12 7:15 PM Open Practice (Raindate - Wednesday, April 13)
Fri., April 15 7:30 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners
Fri., April 22 7:30 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners
Fri., April 29 7:30 PM NASCAR Modifieds, United Racing Club 360 Sprints, Roadrunners
Fri., May 6 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds (Hoover Sportsman 50 Qualifier), Roadrunners
Tues., May 10 7:15 PM Open Practice (Raindate - Wednesday, May 11)
Fri., May 13 8:00 PM Pottsville Auto Parts Night. NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, 600cc Modifieds, Roadrunners
Fri., May 20 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, ARDC Midget Twin-20s (non-winged, no heats), Roadrunners
Fri., May 27 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds (Hoover Sportsman 50 Qualifier), Roadrunners
Fri., June 3 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners (1980 Hall of Fame Night)
Tues., June 7 7:30 PM School's Out Special. RACE OF CHAMPIONS Dirt Track Southern Tour. RoC Big Block Modified 75 (Big Diamond NASCAR Modifieds legal vs. Tour legal Big Block Modifiedsl, Roadrunners. (Rain date, Wednesday, June 15)
Fri., June 10 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners (1981 Hall of Fame Night)
Wed, June 15 7:15 PM Open Practice
Fri., June 17 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, 600cc Modifieds, Roadrunners
Fri., June 24 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners
Tues., June 28 7:30 PM Cindy Rowe 410 Sprint PA Speedweek plus Race of Champions South Tour Sportsman 40 (Big D Sportsman Mods vs. Tour Sportsman). (1983 and 1983 Hall of Fame Night)
Fri., July 1 8:00 PM The 26th Annual Georgie Stevenson Memorial NASCAR Modified Twin-20s, Sportsman Modifieds (Hoover 50 Qualifier), Roadrunners & FIREWORKS
Sun., July 3 7:30 PM Raindate for Stevenson Memorial
Fri., July 8 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, The Station House Roadrunner 4 Crazy 8s
Tues., July 12 7:15 PM Open Practice (Raindate - Wednesday, July 13)
Fri., July 15 8:00 PM Checkered Flag Fan Club Night. NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, 600cc Modifieds, Roadrunners. ($2 off to CFFC Members to spectator area.)
Fri., July 22 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, United Racing Club 360 Sprints, Roadrunners
Fri., July 29 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modified Twin-15s (Hoover Chevrolet 50 Qualifiers), Roadrunners
Tues., August 2 7:15 PM Open Practice (Raindate - Wednesday, August 3)
Fri., August 5 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners
Tues., August 9 7:30 PM Big D's 34th Anniversary. Race of Champions Dirt Track Southern Tour. RoC Big Block Modified 75 (Big Diamond NASCAR Modifieds legal vs. Tour Big Block Mods), RoC Sportsman 40 (Big D Sportsman Mods vs. Tour Sportsman), Roadrunners. (Rain date, Aug. 10)
Fri., August 12 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, 600cc Modifieds, Roadrunners
Fri., August 19 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, ARDC Midget Twin-20s (no heats), Roadrunners
Fri., August 26 8:00 PM NASCAR Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners - FINAL 2005 NASCAR POINT EVENTS
Sunday, August 28 Big Diamond Raceway Stevenson/Smulley Memorial Charity Golf Tournament, Mountain Valley Golf Course, Mahanoy City, PA
COAL CRACKER NATIONAL OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND
Fri., Sept. 2 8:00 PM 3rd Annual Hoover Chevrolet/GM Performance Parts Sportsman Modified Championship 50, Roadrunners & Modified Practice for Coal Cracker 100
Sun., Sept. 4 7:30 PM The 26th Annual Coal Cracker National Modified Championship 100, Roadrunner 20
Mon., Sept. 5 6:00PM COAL CRACKER CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND RAINDATE
Sun., Sept. 18 2:00 PM 2nd Annual Enduro
Sat., Sept.24 1:00 PM Micro Sprint Fall Open (270cc and 600cc), 600cc Modifieds
Sautuday, November 12 Big Diamond Awards Banquet, St. Nicholas Hall, Minersville (Primrose), PA


Coming Events:
Saturday, March 19, 1 PM - - CANCELED, SNOW COVER. Open Practice All Divisions, No Membership Required.
Saturday, March 26, 1 PM - - Micro Sprint Spring Open. 270cc Micros, 600cc Micros, 600cc Modifieds, Open Practice.
Sunday, April 3, 2 PM - - - - - NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Opening Day. Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.


HOWARD, STRUNK, & DESANTIS COME BACK FULL TIME TO BIG DIAMOND
(JOIN HOFFMAN, HOFFMAN, VON DOHREN, MANMILLER, OTHERS CHASING TITLE)


Minersville, PA – Two of the most dominant modified racers in the history of Big Diamond Raceway who captured none of the ten track titles in the 1990’s, Duane Howard of Reading, PA, and Jeff Strunk of Bethel, PA, have announced plans to compete at Big Diamond on a regular basis in 2005 and contend for the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modified title. Also two of the most exciting drivers in recent years at the track, Meme DeSantis of Temple, PA, and Doug Manmiller of Wyomissing, PA, have announced they have inked new deals to see action each week at Big Diamond.
The season opening practice session, set for March 19, has been canceled due to snow cover and persistent cold weather. They will now only have the opportunity to test and tune their cars at Big Diamond in a brief practice session following the Micro Sprint Spring Opener on March 26 or at Grandview Speedway on the afternoon of the same day. Practice or not, they get down to racing at the track’s NASCAR season opener on Sunday afternoon, April 3, as the Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners begin competition.
Five-time Big Diamond champion Duane Howard will join forces with Norm Hansell team in the Norm’s Save Station/Pennzoil Dirt Wheels #357 to return to Big Diamond after a two year absence. The deal was solidified by Duane’s very successful modified car owner, Glenn Hyneman, who is sticking to his guns and continue to focus his efforts to one night a week on Saturday nights at Bridgeport Speedway, who convinced Hansel, who was shopping for a new driver, to hire Duane.
Jeff Strunk will bring the Chad Sinon owned, BGP Racing/Baringer & Associates Real Estate and Insurance #88 to Big Diamond on a weekly basis. Strunk, a four-time champion, plans to pick-up where he loft of a few years ago and fit right back in, not only as a weekly regular but a frequent occupant of the Hoover Chevrolet winner’s circle. The Diamond car will be a TEO Pro chassis with Ford power plants by Doug Meyers. Alan Finch, who has worked on the Biever 114 cars for years at Big Diamond, will move over and be the crew chief of the Sinon/Strunk entry, serving notice the team plans to be a very serious contender for the track title.
Doug Manmiller was left without a Big Diamond ride when Greg Sarangoulis decided to scale down his 2005 racing ventures to one night a weekend with his OO. Manmiller will pilot the OO at Grandview Speedway on Saturday nights but he also just signed to pilot the Mike and Tony Dinatale #11D Bicknell at Big Diamond.
Meme DeSantis drove the Hansell 357, a back-up Sarangoulis OO, the Mohawk International #99 and the Dinatale 11D last season at Big Diamond. But this year he’ll be in the Eastern Rigging #11 of Ed Nowotarski and Craig Hiester on a weekly basis. Ed has had several drivers in his #11, including Keith Brightbill in 2004, but he looks for the team to really step up to the plate this season. This year’s car is a new 2005 TEO with H.A.D. Construction and Giorgio Mushrooms joining Eastern Rigging as sponsors.
But the list doesn’t stop there Doug Hoffman of Allentown, PA will be back to defend his Big Diamond Raceway and NASCAR Regional Titles in the Dennis Eisenhard #77 while his brother Keith Hoffman of Whitehall, PA will be looking to regain the track title Doug took from his starting in 2003 behind the wheel of the Johnny Rae #1.
The Hoffman/Eisenhard title defense revolves around the team’s “driver with an attitude” slogan. The Kerry Hertzog Auto Sales/B&I Auto Supply/Jim Sprout Excavating/West Side Woof Products #77 sports more of an orange look than last years car and will again be a TEO Chassis with Ford power from HG Associates.
Keith Hoffman’s charge to regain the title will be done with a new 2005 Bicknell with Gechter power. 2004 sponsors Fanelli Window Pros, Cocino Food Service Systems and HHH Plumbing and Heating return on the #1.
Craig Von Dohren of Barto, PA and car owner Bill Devine have been in the running for the past two seasons for the Big Diamond title. They will team up again in 2005 with the powerful #70D modified and a new team co-owner, Mike Harvey. A 2005X Bicknell with Lombardo power will carry the Devine Transport, Mike Harvey Enterprises, and Stauffer Construction sponsorship.
Sean Merkel of Boyertown, PA shocked the fans at Big Diamond last season by breaking into the Big Diamond Hoover Chevrolet Winner’s Circle in only his second season of racing modifieds with no experience at Big Diamond to speak of. Merkel is expected back in his Merkel Rebar/Agliano Trucking/Quaker Homes #118.
Although looking for an owner to hire him as a driver for at least one night a week, past feature winner Kyle Weiss of Hamburg, PA plans to be back with one of his two #21K modifieds. Kyle has sponsorship that wants him to be racing every week at Grandview Speedway so his second car will be in competition at Big Diamond as long as the team enjoys success or a substantial sponsor comes along to support the effort.
The 2005 Big Diamond racing season opens with the 270cc Micro Sprints, the 600cc Micro Sprints and the 600cc Modifieds on Saturday afternoon, March 26, at 1 o’clock. The speedway also will allow practice laps following the racing program for all divisions of auto racing that may want practice time.
For more information on Big Diamond Raceway check the track’s official website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434.


Coming Events:
Saturday, March 19– 1 PM – Open Practice - CANCELED – Snow cover.
Saturday, March 26 – 1 PM - Micro Sprint Spring Open.  270cc Micro Sprints, 600cc Micro Sprints and 600cc Modifieds & Open Practice. 
Sunday, April 3 – 2 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Opening Day.    Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.

BIG DIAMOND CANCELS MARCH 19 PRACTICE
MICRO SPRINT / 600CC MOD RACE AND PRACTICE SET FOR MARCH 26;


Minersville, PA – March 13, 2005 – Big Diamond Raceway has decided to cancel the practice session set for March 19. The track still has fair amount of snow covering the track and although forecasts call for high temperatures in the upper 30s this week, the low temperatures are to still fall into the upper teens.
Now Big Diamond will open the 2005 racing season in a very different manner as the 270cc Micro Sprints and the 600cc Micro Sprints will join the 600cc Modifieds in a unique opening day on Saturday afternoon, March 26, at 1 o'clock. The speedway will allow practice laps following the racing program for all divisions of auto racing that may need practice.
Details on the micro payoffs are available at www.bigdiamondraceway.com as well as entry forms for the event. The pre-entry fee per micro-sprint car is $25 before March 20 and $35 after that date or at the gate. The pit admission will be $25. There is no entry fee for the 600cc Modifieds or any cars on hand to practice but the $25 pit gate fee will apply. Admission to the spectator area through the front gate is $10.
Gates will open at 10:30 AM and hot laps are scheduled for 12:30.
The Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners begin one of the most anticipated seasons of weekly Big Diamond competition on Sunday, April 3, at 2 PM. Gates will open at 11 AM.
For more information on Big Diamond Raceway check the track’s official website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434. Anyone requiring rule books or membership forms for the track’s NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series divisions may request one by mailing an addressed envelope with two stamps affixed along with their address to Big Diamond Raceway Rule book, PO Box 298, Minersville, PA 17954.


Coming Events:
Mar. 7 – 12: Big Diamond Car Show, Schuylkill Mall, Frackville, PA.(Stevenson Mem’l Auction: March 12, 4PM)
Sat., Mar. 19– 1 PM – Open Practice All Divisions, No Membership Required.
Sat., Mar. 26 – 1 PM - Micro Sprint Spring Open.
270cc Micro Sprints, 600cc Micro Sprints and 600cc Modifieds & Open Practice.
Sun., Apr. 3 – 2 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Opener Day. Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners


SCHAFFER/PURCELL #6 IS BEST OF SHOW AT BIG DIAMOND MALL SHOW;
KLINGER/LABUDA TEAM WINS ART BAIR TIRE CHANGING COMPETITION


Minersville, PA – March 11, 2005 – Fran Purcell, Sr., Rick Schaffer, Steve Klinger and Mike Labuda earned top honors at the annual Big Diamond Raceway Pre-Season Car Show which runs now through Saturday, March 12, at the Schuylkill Mall in Frackville, PA
The Purcell Modified #6sr, driven by Rick Schaffer, received the Best of Show honors at Big Diamond Raceway’s pre-season car show. Klinger and Labuda took the top prize in the Art Bair Wheel Repair / V&M Towing Tire Changing Competition.
Additionally the Best Appearing Modified award went to the Jason Hamilton/Fluerer Racing #16 edging out Dale Hartz and Kyle Weiss. Greg Weiland captured the Best Appearing Sportsman Modified honors with his 1450 over Gary Wagner, Jr., Billy Moyer, Jr. and Tom Brennan, who tied for second. Tom Hablett’s #22 was near unanimous selection for the Best Appearing Roadrunner award, wining by a wide margin over Kevin Beach and Jake Smulley.
The award winners were determined by the vote of media members in attendance at the show through Wednesday night.
The Steve Klinger/Mike Labuda Team, who are crew members on the defending NASCAR Modified championship team of Doug Hoffman and Dennis Eisenhard, removed and swapped the rear tires on a modified stock cars in a time of 57.52 seconds with no penalties for loose lug nuts. They received an Art Bair racing wheel, two $25 Schuylkill Mall gift certificates, Big Diamond Hats and T-shirts, four Big Diamond gift certificates to the concession stand and novelty stand as well as two Opening Day programs.
The team of Dwayne Weist and Kyle Weiss finished second with a time of 57.74 seconds, which included a two second penalty for a loose lug nut. Jason and Eric Hernley were next at 1:02.73 followed by Tom Hablett and Ryan Moyer at 1:04.45, and Rick Trumbo and Andy Miller at 1:06.82.
All 28 competitors were given $25 pit passes for participating. The other nine competing teams, in time order were Kevin Holland and Dave Miller (1:08.83); Dale Hartz and Andy Geist (1:11.08); Cory Renninger and Kevin Morris (1:12.88); Rob Gibson and Tory Jenkins (1:14.63); Bob Lauthline and Bill Finneran (1:18.92); Tom Langtree and Joe Leone; Chris Holland and Chris Natale; Todd Clocker and Kevin Miller; and Ken Eckert and Willie Surfield.
The 9th Annual Georgie Stevenson Memorial Charity Auction, sponsored by Mystic Screen Printing and Gear Grinders Association, will be taking place this Saturday, March 12, at 4 PM just off center court at the mall. The charity is dedicated to assisting children dealing with serious diseases and their families. The items up for bid are set up at the mall for examination now through Saturday.
Big Diamond will open the season with a Practice Day on Saturday, March 19, at 1 PM. The open practice will carry a $20 pit fee and is open to all racing divisions. Gates will open at 11 AM for practice starting at 1 PM. Admission to the spectator area is free for this practice day.
Actual racing on the Forestville, 3/8th-mile begins one week later as the 270cc Micro Sprints and the 600cc Micro Sprints will join the 600cc Modifieds in a unique opening day on Saturday afternoon, March 26, at 1 o’clock. The speedway also will allow practice laps following the racing program for all divisions of auto racing that may need practice time in addition to the scheduled
The NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Roadrunners will open their season on Sunday afternoon, April 3, at 1 o’clock. It will be the first of two Sunday afternoon shows prior to the track shifting to weekly Friday night action starting with Friday, April 15.
For more information on Big Diamond Raceway, contact JoAnn at (570) 544-6434, write to Big Diamond Raceway, Box 298, Minersville, PA 17954 or visit the track web site at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


BIG DIAMOND TIRE CHANGING COMPETITION POSTPONED TO THURSDAY AY SCHUYLKILL MALL IN FRACKVILLE

Minersville, PA – March 8, 2005 – Snow and ice has forced the annual Big Diamond Raceway / Art Bair Racing Wheel Tire Changing Competition scheduled for tonight (Tuesday) at the Schuylkill Mall in Frackville, PA, to be postponed to Thursday evening, March 10 at 7PM. The competition is part of the week long display and racing cars as part of the annual Big Diamond Raceway Pre-Season Car Show which runs now through Saturday, March 12.
The Schuylkill Mall, which is at the intersection of Route 61 and Interstate 81, is drawing keen interest from Big Diamond Raceway competitors and fans alike this week. Among the cars on display in the mall are the NASCAR Modifieds to be driven by Rick Schaffer (6sr), Shawn Fitzpatrick (102), Kyle Weiss (21K), Colt Harris (W9), Jason Hamilton (16), and Dale Hartz (15). Sportsman Modifieds on hand are the cars of Gary Wagner (47), Bill Finneran (110), Cory Renninger (KT3), Rob Gibson (221), Greg Weiland (1450), Tom Brennan (26), Billy Moyer, Jr. (17), Ray Gara (22), and Andy Miller (64). The roadrunners of Jake Smulley (4), Kevin Holland (66), Dave Kamp (9), Elvin Brennan (555), Mark Berzowski (550), Kevin Beach (17), Tom Hablett (22), Marty Shappell (117), Ken Eckert, Jr. (8M), Ricky Bender (29B), Jason Sherman (721), and Charles Dietzel (49) are also on display.
Other cars on hand are the Selinsgrove roadrunners of Don Murphy (23B) and Jim Somers, Jr. (23jr), late model of Laudan Siegfried (99), the scrambler of Eric Matsko (87), the pure stock of Sammy Troup (59), the enduro of Marty Hoysock (33) and the quarter midgets of Logan (12) and Colby (21) Shollenberger.
The 9th Annual Georgie Stevenson Memorial Charity Auction, sponsored by Mystic Screen Printing and Gear Grinders Association, will be set up at the mall all week long, just off center court and the auction itself will take place on Saturday at 4 PM on March 12.
For more information on Big Diamond Raceway, contact JoAnn at (570) 544-6434, write to Big Diamond Raceway, P.O. Box 298, Minersville, PA 17954 or visit the track web site at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


NEW DRIVE LINE MODIFIEDS & SPORTSMAN SAFETY RULES AT BIG DIAMOND
ROADRUNNERS HAS CHANGES ON FRONT HOOP BARS & ENGINE INTAKE RULES


Minersville, PA – The following are rules changes which will be enforced immediately at Big Diamond Raceway.
MODIFIEDS AND SPORTSMAN
DRIVE LINE SAFETY
Two 360 degree steel safety rings, diameter to suit by ¼ inch wall thickness and 2 inches long, minimum must be fastened by a minimum of 2-3/8, grade 5 bolt, to the torque arm side plate or frame. They must be installed as close to each universal joint as possible to protect driver from drive shaft. All other safety rules for drive line still apply.
ROADRUNNERS
ROLL BAR INSTALLTION: RE: Front Hoop:
5. A single front hoop is permitted to run from front down bars of main cage to around front of radiator. No vertical down bars are permitted in front of the radiator of any kind. No more than two vertical down bars behind radiator on each side, but they must stay in front of “A” frames. An additional down bar may be added from the main cage on the driver side to the frame to protect the driver’s feet. It must be as close to the firewall as possible.
ROADRUNNERS
ENGINE: RE: Intakes
8. Stock cast iron 2 barrel intakes only. No single plane intakes. No Porting or polishing.


Coming Events:
March 7 – 12: Big Diamond Raceway Car Show, Schuylkill Mall, Route 61 & Interstate 81, Frackville, PA.
(Tire Changing Competition: March 8, 7PM; Georgie Stevenson Mem’l Auction: March 12, 4PM)
Saturday, March 19– 1 PM – Open Practice All Divisions, No Membership Required.
Saturday, March 26 – 1 PM - Micro Sprint Spring Open.
270cc Micro Sprints, 600cc Micro Sprints and 600cc Modifieds & Open Practice.
Sunday, April 3 – 2 PM – NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Opening Day.
Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.


MICRO SPRINTS ENTER BIG DIAMOND MARCH 26 SPRING OPENER
(RYAN GRETH IS FIRST DRIVER TO ENTER)


Minersville, PA – March 6, 2005 –Big Diamond Raceway will open the 2005 racing season in a very different manner as the 270cc Micro Sprints and the 600cc Micro Sprints will join the 600cc Modifieds in a unique opening day on Saturday afternoon, March 26, at 1 o’clock. Micro Sprint teams are already taking advantage of the $10 discount for pre-entering their cars for the event.
Ryan Greth was the first micro driver to enter this special event. Entries have also been received from Ron Taggart, Kerry Shane, Justin Frantz, Michael Freed, Jim Brookens, Robert Crawford, Mike Allar, Matt Kiefert and Jason Kohler.
Micro sprint pre-entries received by March 20 cost only $25 while entries at the gate on race day will cost $35. There was a misprint that showed the gate entry as $30 but it is $35. Also pit passes will cost $25.
There is no risk with the early entry as all pre-entry fee checks will be held until race day so they can be returned if weather does not permit the event to be held. But the early entries may help drivers retain their normal car numbers as priority on car numbers will be give to the car which is entered earliest.
The speedway will also allow practice laps following the racing program on March 26 for all divisions of auto racing that may need practice time in addition to the scheduled Practice Day on Saturday, March 19, at 1 PM.
The March 26th opener will see 8-lap qualifying heats, 8-lap consolations (B-Mains) and 15-lap features for both the 270cc Micros and the 600cc Micros. The features will pay a purse which will increase with the car counts in each Micro division with a 20 to 24 car field paying a $2000 purse with $400 to win up to a maximum of a $3300 purse with $600 to win for over 40 cars.
Details on the payoffs, based on four different car count levels, are available at www.bigdiamondraceway.com as well as entry forms for the event
The card for the 600cc Modifieds will include two heats and a feature. There is no entry fee for the 600cc Modifieds or any cars on hand to practice but the $25 pit gate fee will apply. Admission to the spectator area through the front gate is $10.
Gates will open at 10:30 AM and hot laps are scheduled for 12:30.
The open practice on March 19 will carry a $20 pit fee and is open to all racing divisions. Gates will open at 11 AM for practice starting at 1 PM. Admission to the spectator area is free for this practice day.
For more information on Big Diamond Raceway check the track’s official website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434. Anyone requiring rulebooks for the track’s NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series divisions may request one by mailing an addressed envelope with two stamps affixed along with their address to Big Diamond Raceway Rulebook, PO Box 298, Minersville, PA 17954. Rulebooks and NASCAR Membership Applications can also be picked-up at Big Diamond’s pre-season Mall Show at the Schuylkill Mall in Frackville, PA this week (March 7 through 12).


BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY CAR SHOW OPENS TODAY (Monday) AT SCHUYLKILL MALL IN FRACKVILLE

Minersville, PA – March 7, 2005 – Big Diamond Raceway opens their 2005 pre-season Car Show today (Monday) at the Schuylkill Mall in Frackville, PA with some of the best looking cars that will be competing at Big Diamond Raceway in Minersville, PA this season.
The Schuylkill Mall, which is at the intersection of Route 61 and Interstate 81, is drawing keen interest from competitors and fans alike. Among the cars in the show are the NASCAR Modifieds to be driven by Rick Schaffer, Shawn Fitzpatrick, Kyle Weiss, Colt Harris, Jason Hamilton, Dale Hartz and Dave Hauser. Sportsman Modifieds on hand are the cars of Gary Wagner, Bill Finneran, Cory Renninger, Rob Gibson, Greg Weiland, Chris Eckert, Billy Moyer, Jr., Ray Gara, Doug Hendricks, and Andy Miller. The roadrunners of Jake Smulley, Kevin Holland, Dave Kamp, Don Murphy, Charles Dietzel, Elvin Brennan, Mark Berzowski, Kevin Beach, Tom Hablett, Marty Shappell, Ken Eckert, Jr., Jason Sherman and Jim Somers, Jr. are also on display.
Other cars on hand are the late model of Laudan Siegfried, the scrambler of Eric Matsko, the pure stock of Sammy Troup, the enduro of Marty Hoysock and two of Barry Shollenberger’s quarter midgets.
As part of the show, which runs through March 12, the annual Big Diamond Raceway / Art Bair Racing Wheel Tire Changing Competition is set for Tuesday, March 8 at 7PM. Vince James of V&M Towing of Reading, PA will be officiating the contest for two-person teams.
The 9th Annual Georgie Stevenson Memorial Charity Auction, sponsored by Mystic Screen Printing and Gear Grinders Association, will be set up at the mall all week long at an available store just off center court and the auction itself will take place on Saturday at 4 PM on March 12.
Donations are still coming in for this auction to assist families with children dealing with serious diseases but the pace is slow this year and a special call is going out to all racing teams for their support of everything from autographed tee-shirts to old racing uniforms, helmets, crew shirts and other articles and even old body panels.
“Anything is welcome as a donation for the auction,” commented Chris Stevenson recently. “Although we do get many racing items, donated items do not need to be race related. We will have our spot open in the mall all week during Big Diamond’s Race Car show, so if you would like to drop off a donation or just check out what will be auctioned off, we’ll be there.”
For more information on Big Diamond Raceway, contact JoAnn at (570) 544-6434, write to Big Diamond Raceway, P.O. Box 298, Minersville, PA 17954 or visit the track web site at www.bigdiamondraceway.com.


Coming Events:
February 27 - March 6 - - - - Reading Fairgrounds Square Mall Show, Reading, PA
March 7 - 12 - - - - Big Diamond Raceway Car Show, Schuylkill Mall, Route 61 & Interstate 81, Frackville, PA.
(Tire Changing Competition: March 8, 7PM; Georgie Stevenson Mem’l Auction: March 12, 4PM)
Saturday, March 19, 1 PM - - Open Practice All Divisions, No Membership Required.
Saturday, March 26, 1 PM - - Micro Sprint Spring Open. 270cc Micros, 600cc Micros, 600cc Modifieds, Open Practice.
Sunday, April 3, 2 PM - - - - - NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Opening Day. Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Roadrunners.


BIG DIAMOND REPLACES 358 SPRINTS WITH URC SPRINTS ON APRIL 29;
SEASON OPENS WITH MARCH 19 PRACTICE; MICRO SPRINT OPEN MARCH 26


Minersville, PA – February 25, 2005 – Big Diamond Raceway has added a second United Racing Club (URC) sprint car in their 2005 schedule on Friday, April 29. It will be the first appearance of URC in Pennsylvania and their second event of the season. URC replaces the final of three planned 358 Sprint dates which were cancelled due to the decision by the KARS organization to not run events in 2005. The other two planned 358 dates have already been replaced with two ARDC Midget Twin-20 features events.
The United Racing Club will also be racing at Big Diamond Raceway on Friday, July 22.
The off-season has been a busy one for the United Racing Club. 2004 URC champion and Big Diamond feature winner, Curt Michael of Ocean View, MD, has left the Frank Davis #2 to move into the Pat and Kathy Palladino #99 for the 2005 season replacing Sean Michael. Kevin Welsh of Far Hills, NJ, who was the runner-up in the 2004 point race and the Valley Forge Inc. PA URC Series Champ, will park the Pete Welsh #18W and move with his team members to the Davis #2 for 2005.
The other 2004 URC Big Diamond was Tim Hogue of Medford, PA. Tim was named URC’s “Most Improved Driver” for the season and is expected back in his Tastykake #39 with hopes of improving on his first two career feature wins and his sixth place point finish.

The Final 2004 URC Advance Auto Parts / Bars Leaks Point Standings:
1. 2 Curt Michael, Ocean View, DE – 2751
2. 18w Kevin Welsh, Far Hills, NJ – 2647
3. 669/5G Dave McGough, Sassamansville, PA – 2584
4. 99 Sean Michael, Allentown, PA – 2555
5. 33 Kramer Williamson, Palmyra, PA – 2352
6. 39 Tim Hogue, Medford, PA – 2082
7. 6 Brian Seidel, Allentown, PA – 2014
8. 08 Jason Clauss, Boyertown, PA – 1968
9. 1 Scott Purcell, Frenchtown, NJ – 1964
10. 00 Randy West, Allentown, PA – 1876
11. 13 Cliff Brian, Ephrata, PA – 1870
12. 19 Bill Brian, Jr., Ephrata, PA – 1853
13. 63 Josh Weller, Mertztown, PA – 1773
14. 3 Dave Ely, West Lawn, PA – 1629
15. 56 Chris Coyle, Wilmington, DE – 1604

Big Diamond will open the season with a Practice Day on Saturday, March 19, at 1 PM. The open practice will carry a $20 pit fee and is open to all racing divisions. Gates will open at 11 AM for practice starting at 1 PM. Admission to the spectator area is free for this practice day.
Actual racing on the Forestville, 3/8th-mile begins one week later as the 270cc Micro Sprints and the 600cc Micro Sprints will join the 600cc Modifieds in a unique opening day on Saturday afternoon, March 26, at 1 o’clock. The speedway also will allow practice laps following the racing program for all divisions of auto racing that may need practice time in addition to the scheduled
The March 26th opener will see 15-lap features for both the 270cc Micros and the 600cc Micros. The features will pay a purse which will increase with the car counts in each Micro division with a 20 to 24 car field paying a $2000 purse with $400 to win up to a maximum of a $3300 purse with $600 to win for over 40 cars. Details on the Micro Sprint payoffs are available at www.bigdiamondraceway.com as well as entry forms for the event. The card for the 600cc Modifieds has yet to be set but there is no entry fee for the 600cc Modifieds or any cars on hand to practice but the $25 pit gate fee will apply. Gates will open at 10:30 AM and hot laps are scheduled for 12:30.
For more information on Big Diamond Raceway check the track’s official website at www.bigdiamondraceway.com or call (570) 544-6434.

LINKS TO RESULTS AND PHOTOS FROM 2004 URC RACES AT BIG DIAMOND RACEWAY:
Results from May 21, 2004 - http://www.urcsprints.com/results.php?event_id=7
Photos from May 21, 2004 - http://www.urcsprints.com/photos.html?event_date=2004-05-21
Results from May 21, 2004 - http://www.urcsprints.com/results.php?event_id=18
Photos from May 21, 2004 - http://www.urcsprints.com/photos.html?event_date=2004-07-16
URC 2004 Awards Banquet Release - http://www.urcsprints.com/news.php?news_id=108


SEPTEMBER ENDURO 100 ENTRIES ALREADY BEING ACCEPTED

Roadrunner driver, Jake Smulley of Phoenix Park, PA, again plans to run the Enduro 100 at Big Diamond Raceway on Sunday, September 18, 2005, at 2:00 pm. The event will be sponsored by Franny’s Hilltop Service Center of Primrose, PA and Fran’s Auto Repairs of Pottsville, PA. Although not a Big Diamond Raceway promoted event, entry forms for the Enduro can be obtained on the worldwide web at www.bigdiamondraceway.com. A minimum of 30 cars are needed to be pre registered before the cut off date of September 1st.


Copyright © 1998-2006 by South Jersey Dirt Racing/ToddJ All Rights Reserved.  Born on date April 21, 1998