Utica Rome
Race Results
www.uticaromespeedway.com

09/18/06

UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY TO CELEBRATE HOLIDAY WEEKEND WITH FIREWORKS AND SPRINT CARS

VERNON, NY- An exciting night racing is scheduled for this Sunday, September 3 at the Utica-Rome Speedway with the return of the Empire Super Sprints for the final time in 2006. The Central New York Mini Sprints, 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds will all also see action on Gates-Cole Associates and Walton Farm and Auto Repair night. The Pro Stocks and Pure Stocks will complete their holdover feature events from August 20 with Fireworks completing the night’s activities. Gates open at 2:30 p.m. with racing at 5 p.m.

Some of the best 360 Sprint drivers in the Northeast will make their way to the Utica-Rome Speedway this Sunday when the Empire Super Sprints make their third and final visit to the “Action Track of the East” in 2006. In their last visit, Chuck Hebing charged from the 14th starting spot and in an event that when green to checkered, he put on a driving clinic en route to the win. Back in May, Steve Poirier took home his first ever ESS win. With the season winding down, Justin Barger is the current point leader over Alain Bergeron, former U-R Sportsman champion Jessica Zemken, Dan Kaszubinski, and Poirier.

The 358-Modifieds will also be in action with Bobby Varin currently the point leader, just ahead of Willy Decker, Ted Lamb, Todd Burley, and Jamie Christian. Other drivers that will be in action looking for a victory include Stewart Friesen, Mitch Gibbs, Paul Kinney, Gus Schmidt, AJ Romano, Mark Flach, John Ramsey, and more.

Kyle Lewis is on the verge of his first ever track championship, leading the way in the Sportsman division. Brad Alger, Mike Button, Jeremy Vunk, and Paul Carey fill out the top five point positions.

If full fendered cars are your interest, this Sunday’s program is for you. Features for the Pro Stocks and Pure Stocks from August 20 are to be complete on this evening plus a full program of heats and another feature. Jerry Holmes is the current point leader in the Pro Stocks, holding off Bret Belden, Jim Normoyle, Tom Denton, and Chris Mackey. In the Pure Stocks, Chris Cunningham is the top point getter over Russ Marsden, Ron Hawker, Curt Prevo, and Shawn Dunn.

The IMCA Modified track champion will be crowned this Sunday with Jim Roberts looking to take home his first championship. Aaron Jacobs, Kevin Buff, Mark Chrzanowski, and Mike Smith trail Roberts in the standings.

The CNY Mini Sprints are also in action, utilizing the short inner oval at the Utica-Rome Speedway. Don Harvey Jr. (twice) and Mike Kiser took wins in earlier visits to the Vernon oval.

When the racing action is completed on the track, all eyes will be skyward as fireworks will be set off celebrating the Labor Day holiday and the 2006 racing season.

Utica-Rome Speedway is located on Route 5 in Vernon NY, just minutes from the New York State Thruway. More information such as directions, complete point standings, and news can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com. The speedway office can be contacted by dialing (315) 829-4557.

DART MACHINERY AND UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY JOIN FORCES TO GIVE SPORTSMAN WINNER ADDED BONUS THIS SUNDAY

VERNON, NY- A true racer never needs an added incentive to go all out and race for the win, but thanks to DART heads there will be another reason to take the victory this Sunday, September 3, in the Sportsman ranks at the Utica-Rome Speedway.

By winning the Sportsman feature event this Sunday, the victor will not only walk away with the winner’s share of the purse but will also have a new set of DART heads, courtesy of Dart Machinery. Dart Machinery has long been involved in local racing, with their company roots deeply imbedded in all sorts of grass roots racing. Beginning in a two car garage in Michigan in 1981, Dart Machinery has become the leader aftermarket cylinder heads, intake manifolds, and engine blocks. A complete list of their products and services are available online at www.dartheads.com

Joining the Sportsman this Sunday at the Utica-Rome Speedway will be the Empire Super Sprints, Central New York Mini Sprints, 358-Modifieds, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. The holdover feature events for the Pro Stocks and Pure Stocks from August 20 will also be completed. Gates for Gates-Cole Associates and Walton Farm and Auto Night will open at 2:30 p.m. with racing at 5 p.m. More information can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by calling (315) 829-4557.

UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY FALLS TO RAIN FOR THIRD TIME THIS SEASON

VERNON, NY- Due to rain showers and the forecast for more throughout the day, Utica-Rome Speedway has cancelled its racing event for Sunday August 26.

“Everyone knows how I hate to cancel racing here at Utica-Rome,” says U-R General Manager Dick Sweet, “but I’ve been watching the weather and it doesn’t look good. I decided to cancel now instead of waiting until the afternoon to give our race teams and employees a chance to make other plans.” The Twin 20’s that were scheduled for this Sunday will be back to September 10 along with the double point events scheduled for the Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stocks. The track champions for all divisions will be decided on that evening with the exception of the IMCA Modifieds who will not be part of the night’s schedule. The IMCA Modified champion will be decided on September 3.

This coming Sunday Gates-Cole Associates and Walton Farm and Auto will present the Labor Day Spectacular when the Empire Super Sprints and Central New York Mini Sprints join a regular show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. The holdover features for the Pro Stocks and Pure Stocks from August 20 will also be completed. Also, an added incentive for the Sportsman will be racing for a set of DART heads, which will be given to the winner of the feature event. Fireworks will light up the night sky after the night’s activities to celebrate the end of the summer racing season and the Labor Day holiday. Gates will open at 2:30 p.m. with racing at 5 p.m.

For more information, log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

Utica-Rome Speedway Quick Results 8/20
PILUSO’S SERVICE AND NORTH NORWICH MOTORS & TRAILER SALES RACE SUMMARY

RACE OF CHAMPIONS MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH (75 LAPS)- AJ ROMANO, Jerry Higbie, Willy Decker, Mitch Gibbs, Jeff Trombley, Robert King, Brian Murphy, Pete Taylor, Billy Shantel Jr., Jack Johnson, Dave Rauscher, Todd Burley, John Lutes, Bob Henry, Ronnie Johnson, Stewart Friesen, Mark Flach, Paul Kinney, Gus Schmidt, Chad Phelps, Bobby Varin, David Towns, David Orr, Jamie Christian, Ted Lamb, and Jim Davis.

SPORTSMAN FEATURE FINISH (20 LAPS)- STEVE WAY, Alan Barker, Paul Carey, Butch Reiter, Brad Alger, Tim Nye, Casey Williams, Mike Button, Jeremy Wilder, Kyle Lewis, Danny Varin, Jeremy Vunk, Jim Rothwell, Josh Pursell, Bill Wilder, Dan Yankowski, Matt Janczuk, John DeForest, and Keme Hollenbeck.

IMCA MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH (15 LAPS)- MIKE SMITH, Aaron Jacobs, Jim Roberts, Bob Banks, Ken Rogers, Brian Evenden, Kevan Cook, Bobby Thurston, Mark Chrzanowski, Jojo Donato, Rick Dusckas, and Kevin Buff.

RACE OF CHAMPIONS DIRT MODIFIED NORTH SERIES CHAMPION TO BE DECIDED THIS SUNDAY AT THE UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- Another exciting program of professional dirt track racing is on tap for this Sunday August 20 when the Race of Champions Dirt Modified Series for the Big Block/Small Block Modifieds makes its second stop of the season at the Utica-Rome Speedway. Also scheduled on Piluso’s Service Inc. and North Norwich Motors & Trailer Sales night is a regular program for the Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds.

Some of the best Dirt Modified drivers in the northeast will make their way to “The Action Track of the East” to take on the strong field of competitors that calls Utica-Rome Speedway their Sunday night home. Competing a 75 lap, $4,000 to win affair, track regulars such as Bobby Varin, Willy Decker, Ted Lamb, Todd Burley, Mitch Gibbs, Jamie Christian, Stewart Friesen, and more will attempt to keep the RoC gold at their home track. RoC tour regulars Jerry Higbie, Brian Weaver, Jim Davis, and Matt DeLorenzo plus Jack Johnson, Ronnie Johnson, Dave Camara, and more are expected to compete. A $500 bonus will go to the highest finishing 358-Modified to cross the line. Earlier this season, Alan Johnson captured the win in a very competitive event, holding off a hard charging Billy Decker while last season Bobby Varin swept both events held at the Vernon oval. Any U-R Speedway 358-Modified will receive 20 points in the season long point standings for attempting to qualify. Going into this final event on the North portion of the RoC tour, Mitch Gibbs is the point leader and hopes to be crowned North Region champion once the dust settles. Jerry Higbie, Bobby Varin, Alan Johnson, and Brian Weaver round out the top five point earners on the RoC North Series. Unlike the May event, sail panels will not be allowed in this event. Please log on to www.rocdirt.com for more information.

With the point season ending on September 10, the point season is winding down quickly all divisions at the speedway. Looking for his first championship in the Sportsman division, Kyle Lewis hopes to maintain his advantage until the end of the season, holding off Brad Alger, Jeremy Vunk, Mike Button, and Paul Carey.

Jerry Holmes ended Bret Belden’s hot streak by winning this past Sunday and getting his championship run back on track. Belden holds down the second spot with Jim Normoyle, Tom Denton, and Chris Mackey trying to stay in the title hunt.

While Russ Marsden has dominated victory lane in the Pure Stock division for most of the season, Chris Cunningham has used consistency to keep in the title hunt. When Marsden’s run to the front this past Sunday was slowed by a multi car crash, Cunningham had another top three run to gain the point lead by three points over Marsden. Ron Hawker, Curt Prevo, and Shawn Dunn fallout the rest of the top five point positions.

A quick look at the IMCA Modified points show Jim Roberts atop the standings, with Aaron Jacobs, Kevin Buff, Mark Chrzanowski, and Mike Smith.

Adult admission into the grandstands for this event will be $15 while children nine and under are free. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m.

Located on Route 5 in the village of Vernon, the Utica-Rome Speedway is easily accessible from the New York State Thruway. To find out more information or directions to the speedway, log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

STEWART FRIESEN OUTCLASSES 358-MODIFIED FIELD TO TAKE WIN AT THE UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- Stewart Friesen’s return to the Utica-Rome Speedway as a weekly competitor is now complete as he dominated the 358-Modified feature in front of a full house on Mirabito “The Energy Leader” and Mark’s Supply night. It was Friesen’s ninth career win at “The Action Track of the East”.

Gus Schmidt and John Ramsey led the 358-Modified field down to the green flag with Schmidt holding a narrow lead over Ramsey for the first two laps. Ramsey was able to edge ahead for the lead to lead lap three only to have Schmidt regain it a lap later. Mitch Gibbs, coming from the fifth spot, surged ahead to take the top spot on lap seven as he looked to claim his first win in the season.

The man on the move was Stewart Friesen, as he broke into the top five by lap six after starting 10th, and then by lap 10 he took over the number two position from Schmidt. At that point it was Gibbs, Friesen, Schmidt, Todd Burley, and Jamie Christian running in the top five positions.

Friesen’s charge didn’t end when he got to second as quickly reeled in Gibbs as the top duo worked on lap 12, Friesen dove off the top of turn one on to bottom of turn two underneath Gibbs to power by for the lead. Despite two cautions, Friesen would dominate the rest of the 30 lap affair leaving rest of the field to battle for second. Burley would gain the runner up spot at the halfway point while Gibbs and Jamie Christian would battle for the third spot. At the finish it was Friesen and Burley across in the first and second spot with Gibbs winning the battle for third. Christian would settle for fourth with Ted Lamb making a late race charge for fifth.

Jeremy Vunk made short work of the Sportsman field, taking the lead from early leader Matt Janczuk on the third circuit after starting fourth. As Vunk controlled most of the 20 lap event, Casey Williams and point leader Kyle Lewis waged a battle of their own for the runner up spot. Williams, after starting seventh, held down the second spot for the first half of the race with Lewis getting by on lap 12. At the finish, it was Vunk with his second win of the season with Lewis, Williams, Brad Alger, and Janczuk trailing.

The Pro Stock feature saw Mark Effner lead the opening circuit from the pole position until fellow front row starter Chris Mackey taking over on the second lap. Mackey, competing in his rookie season in the division, looked strong in search of his first career win until Rob Seavy got by on lap nine. Also going for first ever Pro Stock win, Seavy held off the advances of point leader Jerry Holmes for several laps until the caution flew on lap 16. Holmes took full advantage of the restart to get by Seavy as he sped by to collect his sixth win of the season. Seavy would hold on to second, Mackey fell to third, while Roy Fifield and Jim Normoyle rounded out the top five.

As is usual, the 15 lap Pure Stock main was a wild affair with Frank Hyatt, Tim Janczuk, and Brandon Warner taking turns up front as Ron Hawker picked and chose his moments to work his way to the front. Hawker would gain the lead as lap 13 hit the books and go on to collect his first win of the season. Rick Condes would come in second, barely edging out a charging Chris Cunningham. Warner and Russ Marsden rounded out the top five.

Kevan Cook jumped out in front of the IMCA Modified field at the drop of green flag and dominated the 15 lap contest. Jim Roberts came home in second with Aaron Jacobs, Ken Rogers, and Bob Banks filling out the top five positions.

Darryl Terrier won the One on One Spectator race.

This coming Sunday, August 20 at the Utica-Rome Speedway, Piluso’s Service Inc. and North Norwich Motors and Trailer Sales present the Race of Champions Dirt Modified Tour. The Big Block and Small Block Modifieds will compete in a 75 lap affair with $4,000 going to the winner. Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds will round the night’s activities. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m. Call (315) 829-4557 for more information or log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com.

MIRABITO “THE ENERGY LEADER” AND MARK’S SUPPLY RACE SUMMARY
358-MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH (30 LAPS)- STEWART FRIESEN, Todd Burley, Mitch Gibbs, Jamie Christian, Ted Lamb, Bobby Varin, AJ Romano, Willy Decker, Dave Camara, Jack Johnson, Bill Shantel Jr., Gus Schmidt, Dave Rauscher, Mark Flach, Brian Murphy, David Orr, John Ramsey, Paul Kinney, Joel Thomas, and Brian Thomas. DNS- Ronnie Johnson.

SPORTSMAN FEATURE FINISH (20 LAPS)- JEREMY VUNK, Kyle Lewis, Casey Williams, Brad Alger, Matt Janczuk, Butch Reiter, Steve Way, Danny Varin, Jeff Leslie, Jim Rothwell, John DeForest, Paul Carey, Mike Button, Dan Yankowski, Alan Barker, Mike Teachout, Mike Barney, Steve Kotary, and Tim Nye.

PRO STOCK FEATURE FINISH (20 LAPS)- JERRY HOLMES, Rob Seavy, Chris Mackey, Roy Fifield, Jim Normoyle, Bret Belden, Don Decker, Tom Denton, Dave Moyer, Ed Ostrander, Dave Cushman, Dan Rickard, Mark Effner, Chad Ray, and Dave Fox. DNS- Bill Knapp.

PURE STOCK FEATURE FINISH (15 LAPS)- RON HAWKER, Rick Condes, Chris Cunningham, Brandon Warner, Russ Marsden, Tim Janczuk, Shawn Dunn, Phil Norman, Chris Carr, Frank Hyatt, Kelly Pope, George Schulze, Ron Sansone, Abbey Thorp, Andy Potter, Art Newman, Stan Clark, Glenn Forward, Matt Ball, Jim Thomas, John Wosolowski, Rodney True, and Curt Prevo. DNS- Pete Kowalski.

IMCA MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH (15 LAPS) - KEVAN COOK, Jim Roberts, Aaron Jacobs, Ken Rogers, Bob Banks, Mark Chrzanowski, and Kevin Buff.

FIVE DOLLAR ADMISSION THIS SUNDAY AT UTICA-ROME SPEEWAY

VERNON, NY- Where can you see 358-Modified drivers like Bobby Varin, Willy Decker, Todd Burley, Ted Lamb, Mitch Gibbs, and Stewart Friesen battle on a weekly basis, with frequent visits by Jack Johnson, AJ Romano, and Dave Camara? For just FIVE dollars?

Only at the Utica-Rome Speedway.

This Sunday, August 13, Mirabito “The Energy Leader” and Mark’s Supply present Fan Appreciation Night which will include a full show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds all for the low price of five dollars which is a savings of six dollars off regular admission. Gates for this popular event will open at 3 p.m. with racing getting underway at 5:30 p.m. One on one Spectator races are also scheduled.

Bobby Varin has been on a tear lately, reeling off three wins in a row and vaulting into the point lead over Willy Decker, Ted Lamb, Todd Burley, and Jamie Christian. Decker, the winner of last years $8,000 championship, looks to rebound and regain the point lead that he has held for most of the 2006 season. Lamb and Burley, still within striking distance of the lead, hope to start a run of their own to carry them to the lucrative title.

Steady runs on a weekly basis have put Kyle Lewis in the driver’s seat for the Sportsman title but will have to contend with veteran Mike Button, Brad Alger, Billy Price, and Jeremy Vunk to collect his first title.

Despite Bret Belden’s three race win streak, Jerry Holmes is still atop the Pro Stock standings, holding off Belden, Jim Normoyle, Tom Denton, and Chris Mackey.

A costly flat tire this past Sunday for Russ Marsden has allowed Chris Cunningham to close to within a point of the point lead. The winner of eight races to Cunningham’s two; Marsden has been unable to shake the steady and consistent Cunningham. Ron Hawker, Curt Prevo, and Chuck Cushman round out the top five point positions.

The IMCA Modified standings show Jim Roberts still the point leader, holding a comfortable edge over Aaron Jacobs, Kevin Buff, Mark Chrzanowski, and Mike Smith.

For anyone who wanted to know what it was like to take a competitive lap around the Utica-Rome Speedway this Sunday may be your chance. One on one Spectator races are on tap and the rules are simple. The very vehicle that brings you to the track can be used to run a lap against a fellow fan, provided the vehicle is registered and the participant has an approved helmet. A pit pass is also required and all vehicles are subject to inspection.

While grandstand has been lowered to $5, pit admission will remain at $25.

Utica-Rome Speedway is easily on Route 5 in Vernon, just minutes for the New York State Thruway. The speedway website can be accessed at www.uticaromespeedway.com with more information available by calling (315) 829-4557.

TODD BURLEY RACES TO SECOND WIN OF SEASON AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- Hot and humid conditions greeted the fans at the Utica-Rome Speedway with the racing action just as hot and heavy on the racing surface. Todd Burley took home his second win of the season on Upstate Spray Foam Insulation and Old Forge Power Sports night.

At the drop of the green in the 358-Modified main, John Ramsey took advantage of his front row starting spot as he jumped to the point at when the green lights blinked on. Todd Burley was making short work of the field as he quickly moved into the runner-up spot from his sixth starting position and he quickly ran down the leader. For several laps, Burley harassed the leader Ramsey for several circuits and on lap seven, Burley made the pass for the lead.

While Burley was running away from the rest of the field, Bobby Varin, Andy Bachetti, and Mitch Gibbs were on their way to the front. Varin moved into second on lap nine and by halfway point it was Burley, Varin, Bachetti, Gibbs, and Stewart Friesen, with Burley way out front. The yellow lights came on at the lap 27 mark in the 30 lap feature for the final time, giving the rest of the field a shot at Burley. Burley was up to the task however as he sped away to become the first repeat winner of the season in the 358-Modified division. Bachetti made the late pass to grab second from Varin with Friesen in fourth and Jack Johnson in fifth.

Tim Nye had early command of the 20 lap Sportsman feature event, taking the lead at the drop of the green flag from his outside pole starting spot. Third place starter Casey Williams caught and passed Nye for the lead on lap three and began to run away from the rest of the field. Steve Way made his way to the runner up position on lap seven and slowly began to reel in the leader. With two laps to go, Way made his bid for the lead and succeeded as he took the lead and raced off with the win. Mike Button made a late race charge to get the second spot, with Butch Reiter, Billy Price, and Nye as the rest of the top five.

AJ Digsby and Chris Mackey took turns out front in the 20 lap Pro Stock feature as Digsby led through lap five with Mackey out front on laps six through eight. Digsby regained the point on lap nine and looked as though he would capture his first Utica-Rome Speedway win. The man that has been dominant so far in the 2006 season, Jerry Holmes made his way to the second spot on lap 16 and immediately started to pressure the young Digsby. After two circuits of being side by side racing, Holmes got the edge over Digsby and took home his fifth win in point racing this season at the speedway. Digsby held on for second with Dave Moyer, Mackey, and Jim Normoyle chasing.

Russ Marsden took home another win in the Pure Stocks ranks, his seventh, after gaining the lead from Curt Prevo on 12 of the 15 lap race. Prevo, Brandon Warner, and Kelly Pope all had turns out front in the early stages of the race. Marsden was chased across the line by Prevo, Glenn Forward, Pope, and Chris Cunningham.

Bob Banks and Ken Rogers led the IMCA Modified field to the green to start their 15 lap A Main, with Mike Smith gaining the early edge from his fourth starting spot. Johnny Hill charged for his sixth starting spot to lead on lap three, but that was short lived as Rob Keller blasted by on lap five for the lead. After battling with Hill for several circuits, Keller began to pull away and when the checkered flag flew, it was Keller getting the win in his first visit to the track. Smith, Hill, George Catanzano, and Jim Roberts filled out the top five positions. Special thanks go out to Kevin Buff and his family for putting up the extra $200 that went to the winner of the event, and to Bob Thurston and Don “Had” Hadcock for their contributions. Dale Caswell collected the extra $125 from Thurston with Aaron Jacobs getting the $100 bonus from Had.

The nativepoker.com Empire Super Sprint Tour returns the Utica-Rome Speedway this Sunday July 23 on Royce International Eyewear and Canastota Kart Speedway night. The 358-Modi.fieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds will join in on the festivities plus the Capital Region Sprint Association will make their first appearance. Fireworks will fill the night skies after the races are over. Gates open at 2:30 p.m. with racing action beginning at 5 p.m. Rain checks from July 2 will be honored. For more information, please call the speedway office at (315) 829-4557 or visit the speedway website at www.uticaromespeedway.com.

UPSTATE SPRAY FOAM INSULATION AND OLD FORGE POWER SPORTS RACE SUMMARY
358-MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH (30 LAPS)- TODD BURLEY, Andy Bachetti, Bobby Varin, Stewart Friesen, Jack Johnson, Mark Flach, Paul Kinney, John Ramsey, Jamie Christian, Dave Rauscher, Willy Decker, Gus Schmidt, David Orr, Jeff Kotary, Don Mattison, Joel Thomas, Mitch Gibbs, Ted Lamb, Brian Murphy, AJ Romano, and Bill Shantel Jr.

SPORTSMAN FEATURE FINISH (20 LAPS)- STEVE WAY, Mike Button, Butch Reiter, Billy Price, Paul Carey, Casey Williams, Brad Alger, Danny Varin, Jeremy Vunk, Alan Barker, Jeremy Wilder, Luke Munroe, Bob Henry, Matt Janczuk, Kyle Lewis, Bill Wilder, Jeff Leslie, and Pat O’Hanlan.

PRO STOCK FEATURE FINISH (20 LAPS)- JERRY HOLMES, AJ Digsby, Dave Moyer, Chris Mackey, Jim Normoyle, Bill Knapp, Don Decker, Mark Effner, Chad Ray, Rob Seavy, Dan Rickard, Dwight Johnson, Dave Cushman, Ed Ostrander, Jim Grippen, Todd Fey, Tom Denton, and Bret Belden.

PURE STOCK FEATURE FINISH (20 LAPS)- RUSS MARSDEN, Curt Prevo, Glenn Forward, Kelly Pope, Chris Cunningham, Shawn Dunn, Frank Hyatt, Art Newman, Chris Carr, Zeke McKeown, Phil Norman, Matt Ball, Ron Hawker, Jim Thomas, Andy Potter, John Wosolowski, Brandon Warner, Tim Janczuk, Warren Jones, Keith Stevenson, Abbey Thorp, Danny Sandford, George Shulze, Chuck Cushman, and Jim Donaldson.

IMCA MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH (15 LAPS)- ROB KELLER, Mike Smith, Johnny Hill, George Catanzano, Jim Roberts, Bob Banks, Pete Anderson, Chris Thurston, Aaron Jacobs, Dale Caswell, Ken Rogers, Mike Chrzanowski, Gregg Kimball, Kevin Buff, Mike Jacobs, and Bill Anderson.

GUS SCHMIDT TAKES EMOTION FILLED WIN AT UTCA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- It was an emotionally charged evening at the Utica-Rome Speedway as double points was on the line for the 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stock divisions while the IMCA Modifieds ran for regular points on Charles Tibbits Masonry and Bishop Print Shop night. Gus Schmidt scored the popular win the 358-Modifieds, his first in four seasons at the Vernon oval.

Don Mattison took advantage of pole starting spot as he raced away with the lead when the green flag flew to start the 30 lap 358-Modified feature. Mattison looked strong in the early going as he set a fast pace while the field battled behind him. Gus Schmidt, Jamie Christian, Willy Decker, John Ramsey, and Bobby Varin were scrambling for position behind Mattison with Schmidt getting the runner up spot. A caution on lap 11 brought Mattison back to the rest of the field, and on the restart, Schmidt and Decker both got by to begin their battle for the win.

Using the outer rim of the track, Schmidt held off the repeated challenges Decker lap after lap. At the halfway point, it was Schmidt, Decker, Christian, Mattison, and Mitch Gibbs running in the top five. Schmidt continued to hold the top spot during the extended green flag session with Decker still chasing when on lap 28, the final caution flag came out.

Decker made a last ditch effort on the restart but Schmidt was too strong as he sped away to take his family owned racer to the emotional victory. Decker was second with Gibbs, Ted Lamb, and Christian chasing. It was a tear filled victory as Schmidt was joined by his terminally ill father in victory lane.

In Sportsman action, Casey Williams and Alan Barker took turns leading the first six laps of the 20 lap main until point leader Kyle Lewis grabbed the lead after starting eighth. While Lewis was leading, Jeremy Vunk was in the runner up spot looking to close in with Brad Alger and Mike Button rapidly closing. With five to go Alger made his bid for the second spot and got by Vunk and began running down Lewis. Alger was unable to catch him as Lewis captured his first win of the season. Alger had a fine second with Button getting by for third. Filling out was the top five was Vunk and Butch Reiter.

Chris Mackey charged from his third starting spot to the lead at the drop of the green in the 20 lap Pro Stock feature event, leading the first three circuits. Looking to take advantage of double points night and take firm control of the standings was 10th place starter Jerry Holmes as he took over the top spot on lap 4. A circuit later, Tom Denton snuck by Mackey to take the second position and looked to reel in Holmes. A lap seven caution brought the field together and on the restart Denton went to the high side of the speedway while Holmes used his usual low line. It took five laps for Denton to make the line work, but on lap 12 he got by for the lead. A lap 14 caution again brought the field together and Holmes used it to his advantage as he quickly got by to lead again on lap 15. Again using two distinct grooves, the duo battled side by side for the lead and the win with Denton able to get back by Holmes on lap 17. Denton held on for the win with Holmes a close second while Bret Belden, Jim Normoyle, and Mackey filling out the top five.

The Pure Stock feature saw George Schulz lead the opening lap with Curt Prevo scored as the leader on lap two. Prevo held on to the top spot until lap six when Chuck Cushman charged by, but that was short lived as Chris Cunningham sped by on lap nine. Cunningham’s turn at the top spot was short too, as 15th place starter Russ Marsden took over on lap 11. Marsden would run off with the win as Cunningham, Ron Hawker, Shawn Dunn, and Cushman trailing.

The IMCA Modified main event saw Kevin Buff lead the opening lap with Jim Roberts taking over the lead on lap two. Roberts would never give up the lead for the remainder of the race as he raced away with the win. Buff held on for second followed by Aaron Jacobs.

The popular Driver Autograph Night takes place at the Utica-Rome Speedway next Sunday on July 16 when Upstate Spray Foam and Old Forge Power Sports present the racing action. The 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifeds will all be in action. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m. For more information, visit us on the internet at www.uticaromespeedway.com or call (315) 829-4557.

CHARLES TIBBITS MASONRY AND BISHOP PRINT SHOP RACE SUMMARY
358-MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH (30 LAPS)- GUS SCHMIDT, Willy Decker, Mitch Gibbs, Ted Lamb, Jamie Christian, Don Mattison, Mike Ricci, Jack Johnson, Dave Rauscher, Mark Flach, Andy Bachetti, AJ Romano, John Ramsey, Todd Burley, Paul Kinney, David Orr, Jeff Kotary, Bobby Varin, Pete Taylor, Joel Thomas, Brian Murphy, Billy VanPelt, and Ken McGuire.

SPORTSMAN FEATURE FINISH (20 LAPS)- KYLE LEWIS, Brad Alger, Mike Button, Jeremy Vunk, Butch Reiter, Casey Williams, Paul Carey, Billy Price, Jessica Zemken, Alan Barker, Jeff Leslie, Tim Mayne, Jeremy Wilder, Danny Varin, Dan Yankowski, Matt Janczuk, Mike Teachout, Jason Memrick, Craig Pope, Steve Way, Tim Nye, and Pat O’Hanlan.

PRO STOCK FEATURE FINISH (20 LAPS)- TOM DENTON, Jerry Holmes, Bret Belden, Jim Normoyle, Chris Mackey, Dave Moyer, Bill Knapp, Mark Effner, Don Decker, Chad Ray, Rob Seavy, Dave Cushman, Todd Fey, Ed Ostrander, AJ Digsby, Dwight Johnson, and Ron Marsden.

PURE STOCK FEATURE FINISH (20 LAPS)- RUSS MARSDEN, Chris Cunningham, Ron Hawker, Shawn Dunn, Chuck Cushman, Curt Prevo, Glenn Forward, Tim Janczuk, Jim Thomas, George Schulz, Frank Hyatt, Warren Jones, Keith Stevenson, Abbey Thorp, Phil Norman, Jim Donaldson, Chris Carr, Matt Ball, Pete Kowalski, Kelly Pope, Art Newman, John Wosolowski, and Andy Potter.

IMCA MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH (15 LAPS)- JIM ROBERTS, Kevin Buff, Aaron Jacobs, Mark Chrzanowski, and Dale Caswell.

CNY MINI SPRINT FEATURE TOP 10 (20 LAPS)- MIKE KISER, Rich Wood Jr., Don Harvey, Daniel Laprone, Bubba Broderick, Jared Fink, Johnny Guarino, Greg Hoffman, John Lito, and Jon Moore.

DOUBLE POINTS ON THE LINE THIS WEEKEND AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- This coming Sunday on July 9, Charles Tibbits Masonry and Bishop Print Shop present one of the most exciting regular shows of the season with the Mid Season Championships. Double points will be awarded to the 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stocks while the IMCA Modified division will compete for regular IMCA points. The Central New York Mini Sprints will also make another visit to the track to compete.

Last season going into this event, Mitch Gibbs had led the 358-Modified point standings through most of the first half of the 2005 season only to have mechanical problems drop him from contention on double point’s night. When the dust settled, Willy Decker was standing atop the standings and carried the momentum from that evening through the rest of the season, winning his first Utica-Rome Speedway 358-Modified championship and the $8,000 check that comes with the title. This season, Decker is already the point leader, but his lead is a slim one. 8 points back sits Bobby Varin with Ted Lamb another 8 points back. Todd Burley and Paul Kinney fill out the top five spots in the standings with Jamie Christian, Mark Flach, Gibbs, Andy Bachetti, and Bob Henry Jr. making up the rest of the top 10 point positions. The standings will sure see a shakeup after this weekend.

Kyle Lewis, Matt Janczuk, Jeremy Vunk, Mike Button, and Bill Price are the top Sportsman drivers searching for a win this weekend the extremely competitive division. Lewis has the point lead despite going to winless so far in 2006, and a win this coming Sunday would help his cause to win his first title.

In the Pro Stocks, Jerry Holmes is the current leader and win by anyone else but him could make the point chase extremely interesting in the second half stretch. Holmes has dominated victory lane this season, taking four of seven point events. Jim Normoyle, Bret Belden, Tom Denton, and Don Decker are just some of the drivers hoping to capitalize this Sunday.

Russ Marsden has won five of seven point races in the Pure Stocks division in 2006 but despite his success, his lead is just nine points over last week’s winner Chris Cunningham. Just a short distance back is Ron Hawker, Chuck Cushman, and Tim Janczuk. This week, Marsden could separate himself from the rest of the pack, or fall back into his competitors clutches.

Per IMCA rules, the IMCA Modifieds are only allowed to run for regular points but the action will still be hot and heavy as some of the best IMCA drivers in the region call Utica-Rome Speedway their Sunday night home. Currently Jim Roberts, Dale Caswell, Kevin Buff, Aaron Jacobs, and Pete Anderson make up the top five in points.

Due to the rainout on July 2, the CNY Mini Sprints have been added to the night’s schedule. Utilizing the smaller inner oval, the Mini Sprints have put on exciting shows whenever they visit the “Action Track of the East”.

Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m. Grandstand admission on this evening is just $11 for adult with children ages 10 to 14 years of ages set at $9. Kids nine and under are admitted free.

Located just a short distance from the New York State Thruway in Vernon, the Utica-Rome Speedway is easily accessible from anywhere in the region. For directions or any other information, visit us at www.uticaromespeedway.com or call the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

RAIN PUTS HALT TO INDEPENDENCE DAY WEEKEND ACTION AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- Mother Nature has caused havoc on the 2006 racing season throughout the Northeast on Sunday July 2, it struck Utica-Rome Speedway forcing officials to cancel the Independence Day Weekend program Gates-Cole Associates and Nye Auto Group night. Grandstand rain checks will be honored on July 23 when the Empire Super Sprints will return.

For all of the regular divisions that compete weekly at the Utica-Rome Speedway, rain checks will be honored next Sunday on July 9. The 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds will compete in the Mid Season Championship, with double points on the line for all divisions except for the IMCA Modifieds. The Central New York Mini Sprints will also be back to complete their program that was lost this Sunday. Charles Tibbits Construction and Bishop Print Shop will present the night’s action

The nativepoker.com Empire Super Sprints will come back on July 23 to run their portion of the program that was lost, with rain checks good for that night as well. Grandstand rain checks from July 2 will be honored o n July 23.

The fireworks display scheduled for July 2 will be rescheduled on a later date.

For more information, please log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

INDEPENDENCE DAY TRADITION CONTINUES AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY WITH EMPIRE SUPER SPRINTS AND FIREWORKS

VERNON, NY- The Independence Day Weekend tradition continues this Sunday, July 2, at the Utica-Rome Speedway when Gates-Cole Associates and Nye Auto Group presents the Empire Super Sprints, CNY Mini Sprints, 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. After the racing action is concluded, fireworks will light up the night sky over the Vernon oval.

Andy Bachetti shook the bad luck that chased him through the first half of the season at Utica-Rome when he captured his first 358-Modified win of the season. With a fine second place finish, defending 358-Modified champion Willy Decker was able to climb to the top spot in season long standings but he sits only eight ahead of Bobby Varin. Ted Lamb is next in the standings, just 16 points off the lead with Todd Burley and Paul Kinney making up the rest of the top five. In the second half of the top 10 are Jamie Christian, Mark Flach, Mitch Gibbs, Bachetti, and Bob Henry. To date, there have been six different winners in the six point races completed so far.

Even though he has yet to win a Sportsman race this season at the Utica-Rome Speedway, Kyle Lewis is leading the way the standings. Four runner up finishes have helped Lewis’ cause while Matt Janczuk, also winless, is second in the standings on the strength of his consistent finishes. Jeremy Vunk, Mike Button, and Bill Price round out the top five in the standings in the very competitive Sportsman division. Defending Sportsman champion Paul Carey leads the division in victories with two while Vunk, Price, Steve Way, and Alan Barker have one each.

Jerry Holmes’ stranglehold that he had on the Pro Stock division in 2005 has carried over into the 2006 season as he has four wins in seven point races which have put him atop the standings. Jim Normoyle, Bret Belden, Tom Denton, and Don Decker trail. Besides Holmes, Normyle, Denton, and newcomer Rob Langevin have reached victory lane.

Five time feature winner Russ Marsden’s run to the 2006 Pure Stock championship took a detour this past Sunday night after a crash ended his march to the front and cost him valuable points in the standings. Second place point man Chris Cunningham took full advantage of Marsden’s mishap by taking the win, his first of the season, to close to within 11 points of the 2005 champion. Ron Hawker, Chuck Cushman, and Tim Janczuk round out the top five in points. Besides Marsden and Cunningham, Brandon Warner is the only other driver to find victory lane in the Pure Stock division this season.

In the IMCA Modified division, Jim Roberts is enjoying his first full season in the division at the Utica-Rome Speedway as he leads the way in the IMCA standings with Dale Caswell, Kevin Buff, Aaron Jacobs, and Pete Anderson following. Buff lead in the win category with two, with Roberts, Caswell, George Catanzano, and Mike Smith collecting one each. Smith’s victory came this past weekend as he took the Empire State Series event at the speedway.

On their last visit to the “Action track of the East”, the Empire Super Sprints thrilled the packed house with an exciting race that saw Steve Poirer make a late race pass to collect his first career ESS win. Point Justin Barger will lead the charge into the fast Vernon oval with drivers like Dan Kaszubinski, Jeff Cook, Jeff VanDusen, Doug Emery, Lance Yonge, and local favorite Jessica Zemken just some of the names expected to compete. The last event drew and amazing 39 entries.

Racing on the inner oval, the CNY Mini Sprints have produced exciting races themselves as they have taken to the smaller track well. Don Harvey claimed the last race on Memorial Day Weekend.

To celebrate 230 years of independence, Utica-Rome Speedway will light up the skies over the track with a huge fireworks display that has become another tradition at the track. Utica-Rome Speedway is well known to have one of the finest fireworks shows in the area and this Sunday should prove to be no different.

Gates will open at 2:30 p.m. with the starting time going to its holiday schedule by starting at 5 p.m. General admission for adults is $20 with pit admission just $25.

Located on Route 5 just east of Vernon, Utica-Rome Speedway is easily accessible from the New York State Thruway. For directions, point standings, and other news you can go to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call (315) 829-4557.

ANDY BACHETTI DOMINATES 358-MODIFIED MAIN AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY TO TAKE FIRST WIN OF THE SEASON

VERNON, NY- Despite rain in the surrounding area, Utica-Rome Speedway got in another show. Andy Bachetti finally took home the checkered flag on Gates-Cole Insurance night after a frustrating start to the 2006 season at the speedway. With cooperation of both race officials and race teams, the show was completed in less than three hours as rain drops began to fall moments after final checkered flag.

Bob Henry and Pete Taylor led the field down to the green to start the 30 lap 358-Modified affair with Henry jumping out to the early lead with Andy Bachetti immediately making his presence felt from the fourth starting spot. Bachetti worked over Henry for the next three circuits, and on lap five, he sped by Henry for the lead.

As Bachetti raced away, Todd Burley and Willy Decker were picking their way through the field from the 12th and 13th spot, respectively. By lap 10, Burley was in the third spot with Decker right behind. Burley slipped by Henry a lap later to take second and set after Bachetti. Burley was never able to gain ground under green as Bachetti was cruising out front.

The caution lights blinked on for the second and final time on lap 21; allowing Burley to get right behind Bachetti, with Henry still hanging on to third, Decker in fourth, and Mitch Gibbs in fifth. When the race was restarted, Bachetti jumped to a comfortable lead as Burley had nothing for him. Decker got by Henry to take the third spot and immediately started to fight Burley for the runner up spot. Bachetti took the checkered; his first win of the season at the Vernon oval, as Decker got by Burley on the last lap for second. Burley, Henry, and Gibbs rounded out the top five. Bachetti became the sixth different in six point races at the speedway.

Casey Williams and Billy Price fought back and forth for the lead in the early portions of the Sportsman main with Williams holding off Price to lead the majority of the early stages of the 20 lap feature. Price raced by Williams to grab the lead for good on lap nine and took his first win of the season. Kyle Lewis finished in the second spot for the fourth time this season, with Brad Alger, Paul Carey, and Matt Janczuk taking the rest of the top five spots.

Jerry Holmes took home his fourth win of the season after Dave Moyer and Bill Knapp took turns out front early. Bret Belden, Jim Normoyle, AJ Digsby, and Tom Denton followed.

In Pure Stock action, Glenn Forward had command of the first 13 laps of the 15 lap feature until Chris Cunningham got by as lap 14 was being scored. Cunningham won his first event on the 2006 season as Forward’s bid came up one spot short as he finished second. Art Newman, Jim Thomas, and Rick Condes filled out the top five.

The IMCA Modifieds competed in the Empire State Series event, and at the drop of the green it was Jim Roberts in control of the field. After drawing eighth in the pre race draw, Mike Smith was on the move early as was third by the second circuit, behind Roberts and George Catanzano. Smith moved by Catanzano on lap six as the yellow flag came out allowing Smith to get right behind Roberts on the restart. Smith made short work of Roberts when racing resumed and he sped away to take the popular win, his first career win at the “Action Track of the East”. Roberts and Johnny Hill finished in second and third with Catanzano recovering from a lap six pit stop to take fourth. Kevan Cook took the fifth spot.

The Independence Day tradition continues next Sunday, July 2, when Gates-Cole Associates and Nye Auto Group present the return of the Empire Super Sprints to the half mile oval. Also schedule are the CNY Mini Sprints, 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. The Midstate Antique Stock Car Club will also be on hand with a display in the grandstand area. Following the racing action, a huge fireworks display will light up the sky. Gates open at 2:30 p.m. with racing at 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.uticaromespeedway.com or call (315) 829-4557.

GATES-COLE INSURANCE RACE SUMMARY
358-MODIFIED FINISH (30 LAPS)- ANDY BACHETTI, Willy Decker, Todd Burley, Bob Henry, Mitch Gibbs, Jamie Christian, Bobby Varin, Mark Flach, David Orr, Ted Lamb, Bill Shantel Jr., Paul Kinney, John Ramsey, Gus Schmidt, Dave Rauscher, Pete Taylor, Jeff Kotary, Joel Thomas, Ken McGuire, Brian Murphy, Ben Bushaw, Don Mattison, and Rich Salisbury.

SPORTSMAN FINISH (20 LAPS)- BILLY PRICE, Kyle Lewis, Brad Alger, Paul Carey, Matt Janczuk, Jeremy Vunk, Tim Nye, Mike Button, Tim Mayne, Steve Way, Butch Reiter, Jeff Leslie, Danny Varin, Alan Barker, Michael Teachout, and Casey Williams.

PRO STOCK FINISH (20 LAPS)- JERRY HOLMES, Bret Belden, Jim Normoyle, AJ Digsby, Tom Denton, Dave Moyer, Rob Langevin, Don Decker, Chad Ray, Mark Effner, Rob Seavy, Ed Ostrander, Chris Mackey, Dwight Johnson, Todd Fey, Harold Reed, Bill Knapp, and Jim Grippen.

PURE STOCK FINISH (15 LAPS)- CHRIS CUNNINGHAM, Glenn Forward, Art Newman, Jim Thomas, Rick Condes, Ron Hawker, Shawn Dunn, Curt Prevo, Chuck Cushman, Tim Janczuk, Mike Watkins, Abbey Thorp, Matt Ball, Andy Potter, Warren Jones, Chris Carr, Kelly Pope, Pete Kowelaski, Frank Hyatt, Russ Marsden, John Wasolowski, George Schulz, Brandon Warner, Dan Sandford, and Keith Stevenson.

IMCA EMPIRE STATE SERIES FINISH (25 LAPS)- MIKE SMITH, Jim Roberts, Johnny Hill, George Catanzano, Kevan Cook, Dale Caswell, Kevin Buff, John Mason, Aaron Jacobs, Ken Rogers, Pete Anderson, Larry Bezner, Tommy Paige, Pete Neff, Dan Wilcox, Bob Banks, Rich Townsend, Bill Anderson, Mark Chrzanowski, and Mike Jacobs.

EMPIRE STATE SERIES JOINS REGULAR SHOW THIS SUNDAY AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- As the summer months heat up, so is the racing action on the track and in the overall point standings at the Utica-Rome Speedway. Things could heat up even more this Sunday, June 25, with a regular show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stocks. Also on tap is the Empire State Series for the IMCA Modifieds.

Bobby Varin is the current point leader in the chase for the $8,000 Utica-Rome Speedway 358-Modified championship but his lead is anything but comfortable. Sitting just two points back is Ted Lamb, who after winning on opening night, has finished in the top five in every event competed so far in 2006. Last year’s 358-Modified champion, Willy Decker is just four points back looking to make a mid season charge to the championship. A threat to win anytime the green flag drops is fourth place point man Todd Burley, who sits 26 points back. Throwing his name into championship contention after a thrilling win over Varin this past Sunday is Paul Kinney who is 32 markers back in fifth place. Each one of the top five drivers has one victory each. Filling out the top 10 in the standings is Jamie Christian, Mark Flach, Mitch Gibbs, Gus Schmidt, and John Ramsey.

Making its annual visit to the Utica-Rome Speedway for the third consecutive season is the Empire State Series for the IMCA Modifieds. Many of the top IMCA racers are expected to visit the speedway to participate in stop number three of the series. Along with track regulars, Jim Roberts, Dale Caswell, Kevin Buff, Aaron Jacobs, Pete Anderson, and Bill Anderson, drivers such as current Empire State Series point leader Kevan Cook, Rob Keller, George Catanzano, Sean Lias, and more are expected. Lias and Catanzano are past winners of this event.

Paul Carey got his defense of his 2005 Sportsman championship back on track by winning this past Sunday, but still has some work left to catch the current top five in the standings. Kyle Lewis is the driver atop the standings after this past week’s action, with Matt Janczuk, Jeremy Vunk, Mike Button, and Steve Way trailing.

With three wins Pro Stock action, Jerry Holmes leads the way in the standings followed closely by Jim Normoyle, Brett Belden, Tom Denton, and Don Decker. The Pro Stock division is often the most competitive event of the evening on any given week.

Russ Marsden is continuing his winning ways in the Pure Stock division at the “Action Track of the East”, but has a full field of competitors looking to dethrone him. Chris Cunningham, Ron Hawker, Chuck Cushman, and Tim Janczuk are currently his closest competition in the standings.

Gates open for this action filled event at 3 p.m. with racing slated to begin at 5:30 p.m. Grandstand admission is set at $11 for adults, children ages 10 to 14 years old at $9, and kids 9 and under free.

Utica-Rome Speedway is located on Route 5 in Vernon NY, just minutes from the New York State Thruway. Directions, point standings, results, and much more can be found on www.uticaromespeedway.com. For more information can be obtained by calling (315) 829-4557.

PAUL KINNEY SLAMS DOOR SHUT ON A CHARGING BOBBY VARIN TO WIN FIRST EVER 358-MODIFIED EVENT AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- A night of exciting down to the wire finishes thrilled fans all evening long this past Sunday night at Utica-Rome Speedway on John’s Auto Restoration and JM Uvanni Motors night. Most events were in doubt until the checkered flag flew, especially in the 358-Modfieds as Paul Kinney won a thrilling race over Bobby Varin.

Dave Rauscher used the pole starting position to his advantage as he took command of the 30 lap 358-Modified feature event at the drop of the green. During the long green flag stretch in the first half of the event, Rauscher impressively stretched out a sizable margin in front as several drivers charged to the front. Mark Flach, Jamie Christian, and Paul Kinney battled for the runner up spot as Ted Lamb, Bobby Varin, and Willy Decker made their charge to the front after starting 10th, 13th, and 15th, .

The lone caution of the race for Todd Burley’s stopped car flew on lap 19; erasing Rauscher’s lead and bid for his first ever win. Flach used the restart to gain the lead with Kinney following him through to gain second. With five to go, Kinney slipped by for the lead with Flach falling to second, with Lamb, Decker, and Varin right in the mix. At this point, Varin made a furious charge to the front as he began using the extreme outside to pass a car each circuit. As lap 28 was scored, Varin was in second and closing fast on Kinney who was running the speedway’s bottom groove. Coming off turn four for the final time, Varin was making his run off the high side to make his run for the win, but Kinney slid up the track to cut off Varin’s run. Varin had to get on the brakes and settle for second as Kinney ran to his first career win. Lamb had another top three run as he finished third, Decker in fourth, and Rauscher falling back to fifth. Flach, Christian, Andy Bachetti, Gus Schmidt, and Bill Shantel Jr. rounded out the top 10.

2005 Utica-Rome Speedway Sportsman champion Paul Carey’s recent bad luck gave him an up front starting spot and when the green flag flew, Carey made the best of it as he raced away with the lead. 10th place starter Matt Janczuk began pressuring Carey for the lead on lap seven, and on lap 12 Janczuk was scored the leader. Carey battled back to regain the lead on lap 17 and raced away to win his second feature of the 2006 season. Janczuk settled for second while former Outlaw Modified campaigner Jeff Walton took third. Steve Way and Mike Button rounded out the top five.

Don Decker and Ed Ostrander took turns leading the first five circuits of the 20 lap Pro Stock main, until Jerry Holmes blasted by to lead the sixth lap. As Holmes led, Jim Normoyle and Bret Belden were making there way to the front and soon caught the leader. A torrid three way battle for the lead took place with Normoyle gaining the advantage on lap 10. Normoyle’s lead was short lived however as Holmes regained the top spot a lap later. As the leaders raced side by side, Belden chased, waiting for the front duo to slip up. Normoyle regained the top spot on lap 15 and would race away to his first win of the season. Holmes would hold off Belden for second with Belden settling for third. Fourth and fifth went to Tom Denton and Dave Moyer, respectively.

In Pure Stock action, Glenn Forward led the first half with Art Newman taking over on lap 10. Newman’s lead was short lived as 18th place starter took over on lap 11 of the 15 lap main. Marsden would claim his sixth win of the season with Ron Hawker, Art Newman, Chris Cunningham, and Chuck Cushman chasing.

George Catanzano’s first visit to Utica-Rome Speedway in 2006 proved that some things never change. After taking over the lead from Jim Roberts on lap six of the 15 lap IMCA Modified main, Catanzano would dominate the rest of the race as he did most of the 2005 to win his 100th career IMCA Modified A Main, his 17th at Utica-Rome Speedway. Roberts, Kevin Buff, Aaron Jacobs, and Dale Caswell followed.

Gregory Megerell won the One on One Spectator race.

This coming Sunday, June 25, at the “Action Track of the East” a regular show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stocks is on tap plus the Empire State Series for the IMCA Modifieds. Race time is 5:30 p.m. with gates opening at 3 p.m. More information can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by calling (315) 829-4557.

JOHN’S AUTO RESTORATION/ JM UVANNI MOTORS RACE SUMMARY
358-MODIFIED FINISH (30 LAPS)-PAUL KINNEY, Bobby Varin, Ted Lamb, Willy Decker, Dave Rauscher, Mark Flach, Jamie Christian, Andy Bachetti, Gus Schmidt, Billy Shantel Jr., Todd Burley, Don Mattison, Mitch Gibbs, Jeff Kotary, David Orr, Bob Henry, Ken McGuire, Joel Thomas, John Ramsey, and Pete Taylor. DNS- Brian Weaver.

SPORTSMAN FINISH (20 LAPS)- PAUL CAREY, Matt Janczuk, Jeff Walton, Steve Way, Mike Button, Jeremy Vunk, Kyle Lewis, Brad Alger, Alan Barker, Casey Williams, Jeremy Wilder, Bill Price, Jeff Leslie, Danny Varin, Michael Teachout, Steve Kotary, Tim Mayne, and Tim Nye.

PRO STOCK FINISH (20 LAPS)- JIM NORMOYLE, Jerry Holmes, Bret Belden, Tom Denton, Dave Moyer, Mark Effner, Don Decker, Ed Ostrander, Bill Knapp, Harold Reed, Todd Fey, Jim Grippen, Rob Seavy, Chris Mackey, and Rob Langevin. DNS- AJ Digsby and Chad Ray.

PURE STOCK FINISH (15 LAPS)- RUSS MARSDEN, Ron Hawker, Art Newman, Chris Cunningham, Chuck Cushman, Mike Watkins, Jim Donaldson, Jim Thomas, Frank Hyatt, Phil Norman, Jim Lewis, Tim Janczuk, Chris Carr, Rick Condes, Herm Staats, Glenn Forward, Abbey Thorp, George Schulz, Shawn Dunn, Warren Jones, Matt Ball, Andy Potter, Dan Sandford, Kelly Pope, Brandon Warner, Nate Jacobs, Keith Stevenson, and Curt Prevo.

IMCA MODIFIED FINISH (15 LAPS)- GEORGE CATANZANO, Jim Roberts, Kevin Buff, Aaron Jacobs, Dale Caswell, Kevan Cook, Mark Chrzanowski, Pete Anderson, Bill Anderson, Jojo Donato, and Ken Rogers.

TIGHT 358-MODIFED POINT CHASE AND ONE ON ONE SPECTATOR RACES HIGHLIGHT THIS WEEK’S ACTION AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- After four point events in the 358-Modified division at the Utica-Rome Speedway, one on the most hotly contested championship battles in years is beginning to develop. This Sunday, June 18, one driver is hoping to emerge from the pack as the driver to beat for the remainder of the 2006 season when John’s Auto Restoration and JM Uvanni Motors presents a regular show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. One on one spectator races are also scheduled.

Currently, Ted Lamb and defending 358-Modified champion are tied for the $8,000 championship. Lamb has been in contention for the title since his opening night win but Decker had struggled to contend for a win, but that all changed when he took home his first win of the season this past Sunday. Just four points back sits Bobby Varin in third while Todd Burley is another four markers back. With each of the top four having a victory at the speedway and with just eight points separating them, this championship may be a four way battle all season long. Rounding out the top five in the standings and having a solid season so far is Paul Kinney, who is just 38 points of the lead. Filling out the top 10 spots is Jamie Christian, John Ramsey, Mitch Gibbs, David Orr, and Mark Flach.

In the Sportsman division, Kyle Lewis has emerged as the early favorite with four top fives in four events, including three second place runs. Tim Nye, Matt Janczuk, Jeremy Vunk, and Mike Button make up the rest of the top five point positions. The rest of the top 10 is Bill Price, Steve Way, Brad Alger, Alan Barker, and Paul Carey.

On the strength of three wins, Jerry Holmes has recovered from an early season DNF to take the point lead after five events. In another tight point contest, Bret Belden, Jim Normoyle, Tom Denton, and Chris Mackey sit just behind Holmes with Rob Seavy, Don Decker, Ed Ostrander, AJ Digsby, and Dave Moyer chasing.

Pure Stock point leader Russ Marsden has once again emerged as the driver to beat in the Pure Stocks, taking four out of five events. Chris Cunningham, Ron Hawker, Jim Lewis, and Chuck Cushman are trying to keep pace with the Marsden. Filling out the rest of the top 10 point positions are Brandon Warner, Tim Janczuk, Kelly Pope, Curt Prevo, and Phil Norman.

After collecting his first ever IMCA Modified win, Jim Roberts has climbed atop the IMCA point standings at the Vernon oval, just ahead of Dale Caswell, Kevin Buff, Aaron Jacobs, and Pete Anderson.

For any fan who has ever wanted to feel the thrill of turning a lap in competition at the Utica-Rome Speedway, this Sunday may be the chance that they have been waiting for with the popular One on One Spectator races. In elimination style competition, fans will compete for a trophy and bragging rights with the very vehicle that takes them to the track. Proof of registration and insurance are required, along with an approved helmet and working seat belts.

The racing program this Sunday gets underway at 5:30 p.m., with gates opening at 3 p.m. Adult admission is $11 with kids ages 10 to 14 years old admitted at $9. Children nine and under are free.

Utica-Rome Speedway is located on Route 5 in Vernon, just a short distance from the New York State Thruway. More information on the speedway and upcoming events can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by calling (315) 829-4557.

WILLY DECKER TAKES FIRST WIN OF THE SEASON AT THE UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- For the second consecutive week, overcast skies, cool temperatures, and a heavy racing surface greeted competitors and fans at the Utica-Rome Speedway for Dig Safely New York and Clinton Tractor night. Willy Decker survived the 358-Modified 30 lap grind to take his first win of the 2006 season as he looks to defend his 2005 Utica-Rome Speedway championship.

Jeff Kotary and Don Mattison led the 358-Modified field to the green flag with Mattison the opening lap leader. Lap two and three saw Kotary out front with Mattison blasting back by Kotary for the lead on lap four. Mattison was having a fine run until lap nine when he stopped in turn two with mechanical problems. Kotary inherited the lead back out front having a fine run as Willy Decker was moving up through the field.

After starting ninth on the grid, Decker moved into the second spot on lap 11 and into the lead by lap 14. Paul Kinney was having his finest run of the season hanging around the top five during the first half of the race. By the halfway point, he was in the runner-up spot and setting his sights on Decker. As the laps were winding down, Kinney was slowly closing in on Decker but as the checkered fell, it was still Decker with Kinney a strong second. Ted Lamb continued his consistent finishes in the top five by finishing third with John Ramsey and Mitch Gibbs filling out the top five.

Tim Mayne led from the drop of the green in the Sportsman main event and was seemingly on his way to his first win of the 2006 season at the Utica-Rome Speedway. At about the halfway point of the 20 lap main event, the leader Mayne began showing smoke. Second place runner Steve Way began closing in on Mayne as the leader began to apparently lose power, and Way made the pass for the win as lap 18 went was scored. Way held on for the victory with Mayne holding on for second, Matt Janczuk in third, Kyle Lewis in fourth, and Jeremy Vunk in fifth.

In the Pro Stock feature, Chad Ray led the opening circuit with Mark Effner taking over on lap two. Bret Belden charged from the eighth starting position to take the lead on lap five. Jerry Holmes moved into the second spot on lap nine and closed right in on Belden and challenged for the lead. Lap after lap Holmes attempted to get by Belden with no success. With three to go, Holmes moved up to the top of the speedway and went around Belden for the lead just as Rob Langevin moved into the third position. The last lap saw Belden make a last attempt for the win as Langevin watched and hoped for the leaders to cross each other up. Holmes held on for the win with Belden settling for the second spot, Langevin in third, Eric Vanderhoof and Rob Seavy rounding out the top five positions.

Jim Roberts blasted to the front from the ninth starting spot using the outside lane and looked well on his way to his first career IMCA Modified win. Sean Lias, making a rare 2006 appearance at the track, moved into the runner-up position on the fourth circuit and set sail for Roberts. Lias caught the leader Roberts and made a bid for the lead on lap 10, leading the lap but Roberts wasn’t to be denied as charge back by for the lead. That move proved to be the winning move as he came away with win. Lias was a close second with Johnny Hill, Dale Caswell, and Kevin Buff chasing.

Pure Stock action saw Glenn Forward leading the opening lap of the 15 lap Pure Stock feature event with Brandon Warner out front on the following lap. Warner led the first half of the event until Russ Marsden came from 17th to take the point on lap nine. Marsden would take home another Utica-Rome Speedway win with Warner in second, Chris Cunningham making a late race charge to third, Curt Prevo in fourth, and Jim Lewis in fifth.

In Midstate Vintage Stock Car Club action, Bill Kisselstein won the 50’s class, Mike McLaughlin was the victor in the 60’s, and Clay McNamee won the 70’s class.

“The Action Track of the East” roars back into action this Sunday June 18 when John’s Auto Restoration and JM Uvanni Motors presents a regular show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. Spectator races are also scheduled, giving fans an opportunity to take laps on the speedway in one on one competition. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m. For more information, log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call (315) 829-4557.

DIG SAFELY NEW YORK AND CLINTON TRACTOR RACE SUMMARY
358-MODIFIED FINISH (30 LAPS)- WILLY DECKER, Paul Kinney, Ted Lamb, John Ramsey, Mitch Gibbs, Bobby Varin, Jamie Christian, Todd Burley, Mark Flach, Brian Weaver, Jeff Kotary, Bill Shantel Jr., Pete Taylor, David Orr, Dave Rauscher, Andy Bachetti, Mike Jackson, Ken McGuire, Bob Henry, Don Mattison, Gus Schmidt, Rich Salisbury, and Joel Thomas.

SPORTSMAN FINISH (20 LAPS)- STEVE WAY, Tim Mayne, Matt Janczuk, Kyle Lewis, Jeremy Vunk, Billy Price, Jeff Walton, Steve Kotary, Brad Alger, Tim Nye, Alan Barker, Mike Button, Michael Teachout, Danny Varin, Paul Carey, Jeff Leslie, Casey Williams, and George Dyer. DNS- Jessica Zemken.

PRO STOCK FINISH (20 LAPS)- JERRY HOLMES, Bret Belden, Rob Langevin, Eric Vanderhoof, Rob Seavy, Jim Normoyle, Chris Mackey, Don Decker, AJ Digsby, Bernie Companion, Dave Moyer, Tom Denton, Ed Ostrander, Dave Cushman, Jim Grippen, Mark Effner, Todd Fey, Jim Money, Chad Ray, and Bill Knapp. DNS-Dwight Johnson.

PURE STOCK FINISH (15 LAPS)- RUSS MARSDEN, Brandon Warner, Chris Cunningham, Curt Prevo, Jim Lewis, Kelly Pope, Shawn Dunn, Jim Thomas, Phil Norman, Matt Ball, Frank Hyatt, Chris Carr, George Schulz, Glenn Forward, Andy Potter, Pete Kowaleski, Abbey Thorp, Warren Jones, Keith Stevenson, Chris Smeidy, Mike Watkins, Art Newman, Chuck Cushman, Nate Jacobs, John Wosolowski, Ron Hawker, and Tim Janczuk.

IMCA MODIFIED FINISH (15 LAPS)- JIM ROBERTS, Sean Lias, Johnny Hill, Dale Caswell, Kevin Buff, Pete Anderson, Aaron Jacobs, Mike Smith, Ken Rogers, Mike Jacobs, Bob Banks, Mark Chzranowski, and Bill Anderson. DNS-Eric Nier.

ANOTHER ACTION PACKED NIGHT SCHEDULED FOR THIS SUNDAY AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY ON DIG SAFELY NEW YORK AND CLINTON TRACTOR NIGHT

VERNON, NY- Another action packed night of family entertainment is scheduled this Sunday, June 11, at the Utica-Rome Speedway. Dig Safely New York and Clinton Tractor will present New York State Stock Car Association (NYSSCA) night featuring the mighty 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, IMCA Modifieds, and the Midstate Vintage Stock Car Club.

Bobby Varin currently sits atop the Utica-Rome Speedway 358-Modified point standings as he aims for his first championship at the Vernon oval which is worth $8,000. Todd Burley, Ted Lamb, 2005 champion Willy Decker, and Paul Kinney round out the top five in the standings. Filling out the top 10 is Gus Schmidt, Jamie Christian, Bob Henry Jr., David Orr, and Mark Flach.

Kyle Lewis has been a model of consistency in the Sportsman division so far in 2006. In the three point event competed so far, Lewis has finished in the second spot all three times. Lewis’ consistent finishes have given him the point lead in the division, being chased by Tim Nye, Mike Button, Jeremy Vunk, and Matt Janczuk.

In the ultra competitive Pro Stock division, Tom Denton is the leader in the standings on the strength of a victory and four top 10 finishes. Jim Normoyle is shadowing Denton however, sitting just six points back with four top five finishes. Former track champions Jerry Holmes and Bret Belden are tied for third, just 12 markers back with rookie Chris Mackey impressively holding down the fifth spot in the standings.

Russ Marsden is back in familiar territory in the Pure Stock standings as he leads the standings after being victorious 3 times so far this season. Ron Hawker has been Marsden’s closest competitor on the track and remains that way in the standings as sits in second. Chris Cunningham, Chuck Cushman, and Tim Janczuk fill out the top five spots. The Pure Stocks have been arguably the most competitive events on race night, with the passes for the win coming late in the events.

Dale Caswell took advantage of Kevin Buff’s bad luck this past Sunday to vault himself into the point lead and win the IMCA Modified A Main. Jim Roberts moved up into second, just one point off Caswell while Buff dropped two spots to third. Aaron Jacobs and Bill Anderson sit in fourth and fifth in the season long point race, respectively.

NYSSCA officials will be on hand to present awards to current membership holders in competition this Sunday. NYSSCA is a run by a group of racers to educate the public for the betterment of local auto racing. One of its most important functions is its benefit fund for members injured in racing related incidents. More information on NYSSCA can be found on the internet at www.nyssca.com.

The Midstate Vintage Stock Car Club will be on hand with their replica coupes of years past. Their on track competition gives some of the newer race fans a peek in the past at how auto racing used to be and how far it has progressed through time. Also scheduled for this Sunday evening is the Annual Old Timers Reunion, which will bring together many of the racers of Utica-Rome Speedway’s past, some of which are still competing today.

Gates for this exciting program open at 3 p.m. with racing promptly at 5:30 p.m. Admission for adults is just $11 with children ages 10-14 at $9 . Kids 9 and under are free.

Utica-Rome Speedway, known as “The Action Track of the East” is located on Route 5, just east of the village of Vernon. For directions, complete point standings, track history, and much more, log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

WEAVER'S BAD LUCK STRIKES AGAIN TO HAND LEAD AND WIN TO TODD BURLEY AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- Early morning rain and cloudy skies combined to make a heavy and fast track at the Utica-Rome Speedway this past Sunday at the Utica-Rome Speedway for Mirabito “The Energy Leader” night. Todd Burley took home his first win of the 2006 season at the Vernon oval in the 358-Modified division. Jeremy Vunk was the victor in the Sportsman, Rob Langevin made a last lap pass for the win in the Pro Stocks, and Russ Marsden took home another checkered in the Pure Stocks. Dale Caswell recovered from an early pit stop to take the IMCA Modified “A” Main.

Jeff Kotary and Don Mattison paced the field in the 358-Modified feature event with Mattison the leader on lap one. Mattison was running the cushion around the heavy track to lead the five laps as Brian Weaver and Todd Burley worked their way to the front. Weaver got into the runner up spot on the fifth circuit and into the lead on the next circuit with Burley following Weaver to the front to take the second spot.

Weaver was setting a fast pace with Burley hot on his heels attempting to take the lead away until lap 20 when Weaver’s bad luck at the Utica-Rome Speedway continued. As Weaver was exiting turn four to put lap 21 in the record books, Weaver’s front end collapsed, ending his bid for the victory. Burley was recipient of Weaver’s misfortune, gaining the lead with Mitch Gibbs, coming from the 21st starting spot, in second. Ted Lamb, Willy Decker, and Bobby Varin were the top five runners at this point. Several more cautions would slow the pace in the 30 lap event, but Burley was up to the task as he was able to hold off any charges the Gibbs could mount. Gibbs, Lamb, Varin, and Decker would round out the top five spots. Burley’s win qualifies him for the Fabrications by Tauschman All-Star Cash Dash held in conjunction with the Short Track SuperNationals at the New Afton Speedway on October 6-7.

Steve Kotary paced the early portion of the Sportsman feature, leading the first four circuits. Jeremy Vunk took over on lap five after starting fourth on the grid with Kyle Lewis moving into second. Lewis mounted a charge at about the halfway point, pulling alongside Vunk for several circuits for the lead. Vunk was up to the challenge as he fended Lewis off, and despite several late race cautions bunching the field up, he led the remainder of the event to take his first win of the season at the Utica-Rome Speedway. Lewis crossed in second for the third time in point race competition in 2006 with Tim Nye, Jessica Zemken, and Mike Button trailing.

AJ Digsby and Chad Ray battled for the lead in the 20 lap Pro Stock feature event at the drop of the green, a battle that for the first seven laps until Bret Belden made his presence felt. Belden, coming from the ninth position, got by Ray on lap eight for the second position and then set his sights on Digsby who was still out front. Belden slipped by Digsby several circuits later on lap 12. Belden built himself a comfortable lead as Rob Langevin moved into the runner-up spot after starting 14th. A caution on lap 19 set up a one lap dash between Belden and Langevin. When the green flag dropped, Langevin jumped to the outside of the speedway and pulled even with Belden as they drag raced down the backstretch. Langevin made the move work as he exited off turn four as the leader to take the win. Belden, Chris Mackey, Jim Normoyle, and Jerry Holmes rounded out the top five.

Pure Stock feature action saw Frank Hyatt as the early leader with 14th place starter taking over on lap five. Lap nine saw a multi car crash that eliminated several contenders including Curt Prevo, Chuck Cushman, Phil Norman, Jim Donaldson, and Glenn Forward. Russ Marsden moved into the second spot on lap 10 and starting working over leader Hawker. Marsden edged ahead to lead lap 11 with Hawker edging back out front on lap 12. Marsden regained the lead on lap 13 and raced away with the win. Hawker followed with Chris Cunningham, Art Newman, and Tim Janczuk crossing in positions third through fifth.

In IMCA Modified action, Mike Smith led the opening five circuits until Jim Roberts powered by on lap six. While the two leaders battled up front, Dale Caswell was charging from the back after a lap three pit stop to remove a loose body panel. Using the extreme outside of the speedway, Caswell was passing cars at a pace of two or three at a time in each turn. Lap seven saw Caswell charge by Roberts for the lead, a lead the Caswell would not relinquish for the remainder of the 15 lap affair. Following Caswell across the line was Roberts, Kevan Cook, Smith, and Aaron Jacobs.

On Sunday June 11, Dig Safely New York and Clinton Tractor present a regular show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds plus the Vintage Stock Cars. It will also be New York State Stock Car Association Night. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m. For more information, log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call (315) 829-4557.

MIRABITO “THE ENERGY LEADER” RACE SUMMARY
DIRT 358-MODIFIED FEATURE (30 LAPS)- TODD BURLEY, Mitch Gibbs, Ted Lamb, Bobby Varin, Willy Decker, Jamie Christian, Gus Schmidt, Paul Kinney, Jeff Kotary, David Orr, Josh Pieniziak, Ken McGuire, Joel Thomas, John Ramsey, Don Mattison, Bob Henry Jr., Andy Bachetti, Brian Weaver, Bill Shantel Jr., Dave Rauscher, Pete Taylor, Rich Salisbury, Brian Murphy, and Mark Flach.

SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20 LAPS)- JEREMY VUNK, Kyle Lewis, Tim Nye, Jessica Zemken, Mike Button, Matt Janczuk, Bill Price, Alan Barker, Steve Way, Michael Teachout, Jim Rothwell, Brad Alger, Jeff Leslie, Frank Yankowski, Danny Varin, Jamie Yankowski, Paul Carey, Craig Pope, Steve Kotary, George Dyer, and Casey Williams. DNS-John DeForest and Tim Mayne.

PRO STOCK FEATURE (20 LAPS)- ROBERT LANGEVIN, Bret Belden, Chris Mackey, Jim Normoyle, Jerry Holmes, AJ Digsby, Ed Ostrander, Tom Denton, Rob Seavy, Don Decker, Dave Moyer, Mark Effner, Chip Smith, Chad Ray, Harold Reed, Dwight Johnson, John Roese, Les Gillette, Bill Knapp, Jim Money, Todd Fey, and Paul Rogers.

PURE STOCK FEATURE (15 LAPS)- RUSS MARSDEN, Ron Hawker, Chris Cunningham, Art Newman, Tim Janczuk, Jim Lewis, Chris Carr, George Schulz, Glenn Forward, Frank Hyatt, Warren Jones, Andy Potter, Pete Kowaleski, Kelly Pope, Curt Prevo, Phil Norman, Jim Donaldson, Chuck Cushman, Matt Ball, Nate Jacobs, Keith Stevenson, Brandon Warner, Abbey Thorp, Shawn Dunn, and Rick Condes. DNS- Kenneth Hamm, Brian Wesseldine, and Jim Thomas.

IMCA MODIFIED FEATURE (20 LAPS)- DALE CASWELL, Jim Roberts, Kevan Cook, Mike Smith, Aaron Jacobs, Eric Nier, Pete Anderson, Calvin Painter, Bill Anderson, Bob Banks, Ken Rogers, Jon Dumas, Kevin Buff, Mark Chrzanowski, and Rich Townsend.

REGULAR SHOW ON TAP THIS SUNDAY AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- This Sunday, June 4, another exciting show is on tap at the Utica-Rome Speedway when Mirabito “The Energy Leader” presents a regular show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m.

Fresh off his thrilling win this past Sunday, Bobby Varin took control of the point standings in the 358-Modifieds. Varin looks to make it two in a row this Sunday, but will have to hold bids by the opening night winner Ted Lamb as well as Willy Decker, Todd Burley, Bob Henry, Mark Flach, Paul Kinney, David Orr, Gus Schmidt, Brian Weaver, Andy Bachetti, Mitch Gibbs, John Ramsey, and more. The 358-Modifieds not only will be battling for valuable points towards the $8,000 Utica-Rome Speedway championship, but they will be looking to get a guaranteed starting spot in the Fabrications by Tauschman All-Star Cash Dash held as part of the Short Track SuperNationals on Saturday October 7 at Afton Speedway. More information on the Short Track SuperNationals can be found at www.shorttracksupernationals.com.

The Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds will also be in competition at the “Action Track of the East” to round out the five star show. Adult admission is $11, children ages 10-14 $9, with kids 9 and under admitted for free.

Utica-Rome Speedway is located on Route 5 in the village of Vernon, minutes from New York State Thruway Exit 33. Directions, point standings, and the latest news can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com. For more information, call the speedway office (315) 829-4557.

VARIN TAKES FIRST OF SEASON AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- Mother Nature finally cooperated with Utica-Rome Speedway with sunny skies and warm temperatures, which brought out a large crowd hungry for racing action on Memorial Weekend. Gates-Cole Insurance and Heroux Excavating presented the action that saw 170 cars sign in to do battle on the half mile oval. Bobby Varin took his first Utica-Rome Speedway checkered of the 2006 season in the 358-Modifieds while Steve Way bested a field of 35 Sportsman to win the Race of Champions Sportsman feature. Jerry Holmes took top honors in the Pro Stocks with Russ Marsden taking the win in the Pure Stocks. Steve Poirier was the victor in the Empire Super Sprint finale while Don Harvey Jr. took the CNY Mini Sprint main.

Brian Murphy and Gus Schmidt led the 26 car field to the drop of the green from starter Matt Burdick with Schmidt gaining the early edge to lead the opening four circuits. Andy Bachetti, after starting sixth, took over the top spot on lap five with Schmidt not going down easily. For the next several circuits, Schmidt would hound Bachetti for the lead but Bachetti would hold off all challenges for the moment.

At the 10 lap mark, Bobby Varin had steadily marched into the third spot from starting position number 11 and began closing in on the front running duo. Going into turn three on the 12th lap, Varin dove underneath Bachetti in a bid for the lead with Schmidt going to the outside making it a three wide battle for the lead. Varin’s move worked as he was scored the leader on lap 13 with Schmidt dropping Bachetti to 3rd.

Bachetti regained the runner-up spot when Schmidt slid high in turn 1 with Bob Henry, Willy Decker, and Ted Lamb also getting by before Schmidt recovered. Bobby Varin would lead the remainder of the 30 lap event with Decker, Todd Burley making a late race charge, Bachetti, and Lamb crossing the line to fill out the top five positions. Henry, Paul Kinney, Schmidt, Mark Flach, and Mitch Gibbs rounded out the top 10.

Steve Way won the 40 lap Race of Champions Dirt Sportsman Tour event over Mike Button and Kyle Lewis to take home the $1,000 prize. See Race of Champions release for full details.

Ed Ostander and Chad Ray each led in the early portions of the 20 lap Pro Stock main event until Jerry Holmes took over for good on lap 8. Newcomer Robert Langeuin chased Holmes across the line, holding off the late race charges of Jim Normoyle. Bill Knapp and Tom Denton finished in positions four and five respectively.

In the full fendered Pure Stock division, Kelly Pope led the opening two laps with Curt Prevo jumping into the lead at lap three. Prevo would lead most of the 15 lap race until Russ Marsden got by with two to go. Marsden would hold on for the win with Prevo, Ron Hawker, Tim Janczuk, and Chuck Cushman chasing.

Steve Poirier made a late race pass of Dan Kazsubinski in lapped traffic to take his first ever Empire Super Sprint victory. Kazsubinski would hold onto second with Alain Bergron in third. For full results, see ESS release.

Don Harvey dominated the CNY Mini Sprint feature event with Mike Kiser and Rich Wood Jr. following in second and third.

This Sunday, June 4, Mirabito “The Energy Leader” will present a regular show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. Gates will open at 3 p.m. with racing promptly at 5:30 p.m. As always, more information can be found on the internet at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by calling the speedway at (315) 829-4557.

GATES-COLE INSURANCE & HEROUX EXCAVATING RACE SUMMARY
358-MODIFIEDS FEATURE (30 LAPS)- BOBBY VARIN, Willy Decker, Todd Burley, Ted Lamb, Bob Henry, Paul Kinney, Gus Schmidt, Mark Flach, Mitch Gibbs, John Ramsey, Brian Murphy, Don Mattison, David Orr, Kayle Robidoux, Curt VanPelt, Dave Bargabos, Jeff Kotary, Pete Taylor, Joel Thomas, Ken McGuire, Ron Cartwright, Billy VanPelt, Brian Weaver, Dave Rauscher, Jamie Christian, and Andy Bachetti.

RACE OF CHAMPIONS SPORTSMAN FEATURE (40 LAPS) - STEVE WAY, Mike Button, Kyle Lewis, Tim Nye, Jessica Zemken, Jeremy Vunk, Billy Shantel Jr., Dan Creeden, Shaun Walker, Billy Tanner, Danny Varin, Steve Kotary, Ken Titus, Shane Jablonka, Tim Mayne, Kyle Weiss, Jeff Leslie, Brad Alger, Matt Janczuk, Erik Holmgren, Justin Holland, Casey Williams, Alan Barker, Shawn Donath, Paul Carey, Mike Lartz, Andy Miller, and David Towns.

PRO STOCK FEATURE (20 LAPS)- JERRY HOLMES, Robert Langeuin, Jim Normoyle, Bill Knapp, Tom Denton, Ron Marsden, Bret Belden, Ed Ostrander, Rob Seavy, Chris Mackey, Mark Effner, Dwight Johnson, Chad Ray, Todd Fey, Jim Grippen, Don Decker, AJ Digsby, Jim Money, Bernie Companion, and Dave Moyer.

PURE STOCK FEATURE (15 LAPS)- RUSS MARSDEN, Curt Prevo, Ron Hawker, Tim Janczuk, Chuck Cushman, Chris Cunningham, Art Newman, Kelly Pope, Jim Thomas, Jim Lewis, Phil Norman, Shawn Dunn, Herm Staats, Rick Condes, Brandon Warner, Chris Carr, Glenn Forward, Frank Hyatt, Andy Potter, Danny Sanford, Matt Ball, John Wesolowski, Nate Jacobs, Abbey Thorp, George Schulz, and Keith Stevenson.

EMPIRE SUPER SPRINT FEATURE TOP 10 (25 LAPS)- STEVE POIRIER, Dan Kazsubinski, Alain Bergron, Bubby Kerrick, Lance Yonge, Jeff Cook, Mike Stelter, Russ Bennett, Jeff VanDusen, and Bob Podolak.

CNY MINI SPRINT FEATURE TOP 10 (20 LAPS)- DON HARVEY JR., Mike Kiser, Rich Wood Jr., John Guarino, Bubba Broderick, Skip Travis, Daniel Lampron, James Tomlinson, and Art Kiser.

EMPIRE SUPER SPRINTS INVADE UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY FOR TRADITIONAL HOLIDAY STOP ON GATES-COLE ASSOCIATES AND HEROUX EXCAVATING NIGHT

VERNON, NY- This Sunday, May 28, Gates-Cole Associates and Heroux Excavating will present a special Memorial Day Weekend racing program that will see the Empire Super Sprints make their first of three holiday weekend visits to the Utica-Rome Speedway. Joining ESS will be the Central New York Mini Sprints plus the 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stocks. The Sportsman will compete in a 40 lap Race of Champion Sportsman North Tour event.

Ted Lamb currently leads the chase for the $8,000 Utica-Rome Speedway 358-Modified championship after taking the opening night victory. A talented field of 358-Modified pilots is chasing Lamb, a field that includes Bobby Varin, Todd Burley, 2005 champion Willy Decker, Brian Weaver, Jamie Christian, Andy Bachetti, AJ Romano, Paul Kinney, Mitch Gibbs, Jack Johnson and many more.

2005 Utica-Rome Speedway Sportsman champion Paul Carey will look to defend his Race of Champion win of last season when the tour makes it’s first stop to the track this Sunday. Carey will be joined by many of the speedway’s top Sportsman stars that include Kyle Lewis, Mike Button, Alan Barker, Tim Nye, Bill Price, Brad Alger, Matt Janczuk, plus many invading teams of the Race of Champions tour in this special 40 lap event. Utica-Rome Speedway’s regular competitors will receive 20 points towards the track championship if they attempt to qualify for this special show.

Jerry Holmes and Tom Denton have proved to be the fastest so far in the Pro Stock ranks with both landing in victory lane so far in 2006. Former champion Bret Belden plus Don Decker, Jim Normoyle, Chris Mackey, Dave Moyer, Rob Seavy, Mark Effner, Bill Knapp, and more all have championship hopes.

Ron Hawker, currently the Pure Stock top point earner, will have a tough road to the 2006 championship as Russ Marsden, who has virtually dominated the division the past two seasons, sits just four points back. Another four points separates the third place Chuck Cushman from Marsden, just four points ahead of fourth place Chris Cunningham. After that it’s another log jam of drivers looking to move up in the standings, drivers like Brandon Warner, Darl Ellis Sr., Kelly Pope, Tim Janczuk, Jim Lewis, and Jim Thomas. Every week a large turnout of Pure Stocks thrills the fans with three and four wide racing action.

Kevin Buff has been dominant so far in 2006 in the IMCA Modified division with two wins in as many starts. Jim Roberts, Dale Caswell, Bill Anderson, and Aaron Jacobs are just some of the drivers to end Buff’s reign in victory lane.

The action packed night of professional racing entertainment begins at 5 p.m., with gates opening at 2:30 p.m. Admission is $18 for adults, $16 for children ages 10-14, with kids 9 and under free. Pit admission is just $25 for everyone.

Utica-Rome Speedway is located on Route 5 in Vernon NY, just a few short miles from New York State Thruway Exit 33. More information can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by calling (315) 829-4557.

RAIN HALTS MAY 21ST PROGRAM AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- After several days of soaking rain leaving the Utica-Rome Speedway grounds unmanageable and with the forecast showing more rain and unseasonably cold temperatures, management decided to cancel racing scheduled for tonight, May 21.

Next week, on May 28, racing will resume with a huge holiday program when Gates-Cole Associates presents the Memorial Weekend Special. The Empire Super Sprints will invade the half mile oval for their first appearance of the 2006 season with the Central New York Mini-Sprints joining them. The 358-Modifieds, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stocks will compete in a regular show while the Sportsman will compete in a 40 lap Race of Champion Sportsman Tour event. Race time is 5 p.m. with the gates opening at 2:30 p.m. Please visit www.uticaromespeedway.com for more information or call the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

REGULAR SHOW THIS WEEKEND AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY ON NORTH NORWICH MOTOR AND TRAILER SALES NIGHT

VERNON, NY- After hosting round two of the Race of Champions Dirt Modified North Series that was won by Alan Johnson in exciting fashion, the Utica-Rome Speedway returns to its regular weekly format this Sunday, May 21. North Norwich Motors & Trailer Sales will present this week’s action featuring the 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds.

Ted Lamb took the win on opening night to take the early lead in the chase for the $8,000 358-Modified championship after leader Brian Weaver’s mount slowed with engine woes on the final circuit. Currently, Bobby Varin, Todd Burley, Willy Decker, and Brian Weaver fill out the top five in the standings with talented drivers such as Jamie Christian, Andy Bachetti, AJ Romano, David Orr, and Mark Flach making up the rest of the top 10. This weekend, someone will take another step towards the lucrative 358-Modified championship at the Vernon oval. Also adding his name to the weekly wars after missing the opening night will be Mitch Gibbs. Gibbs has accumulated an impressive resume at the speedway over the past decade, including a championship. Gibbs’ addition raises the bar on an already competitive field of 358-Modifieds.

A competitive field of Sportsman will do battle on the clay oval again this weekend, a field that includes 2005 champion Paul Carey, Kyle Lewis, Mike Button, Tim Nye, Brad Alger, Matt Janczuk, Bill Price, Casey Williams, and Alan Barker with Lewis the early point leader.

Former Pro Stock champions Jerry Holmes and Tom Denton have made themselves the early favorites for the 2006 Pro Stock title by winning a point race apiece, but this weekend another contender may enter the picture. Bill Knapp, Mark Effner, Dave Moyer, Don Decker, Jim Normoyle, Bret Belden, Chris Mackey, and Rob Seavy are just some of the drivers looking to contend for the title.

Four wide racing has been the norm so far in the 2006 season in the Pure Stocks with Russ Marsden and Brandon Warner nailing down wins in the highly competitive division. Ron Hawker is the point leader though with drivers such as Chuck Cushman, Chris Cunningham, Darl Ellis Sr., Kelly Pope, Tim Janczuk, Jim Lewis, Jim Thomas, and more contending for the win every week.

With George Catanzano not in weekly competition at the Utica-Rome Speedway in the IMCA Modified division, Kevin Buff has taken full advantage by winning the first two events. Aaron Jacobs, Bill Anderson, Pete Anderson, Jim Roberts, Dale Caswell, Mark Chrzanowski, Bob Banks, and Mike Smith are just some of the drivers searching for a win every week.

Gates will open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m. this Sunday evening. Weekly admission for a regular show is $11 for adults, $9 for seniors and children ages 10-14 with kids 9 and under free.

Utica-Rome Speedway is located just south of the New York State Thruway Exit 33 on Route 5 in Vernon NY. More information can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com.

Race of Champions Dirt Modified Tour
Official Finish: North Region Race No. 2/Utica-Rome Speedway (5-14-06)

Car # Driver/Hometown Start
1 14J Alan Johnson/Phelps, N.Y. (7)
2 91 Billy Decker/Unadilla, N.Y. (4)
3 19 Tim Fuller/Edwards, N.Y. (10)
4 1J Bobby Varin/Sharon Springs, N.Y. (2)
5 10 Stew Friesen/Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. (1)
6 20 Brett Hearn/Sussex, N.J. (13)
7 42P Pat Ward/Genoa, N.Y. (22)
8 97 Jerry Higbie Jr./Slate Hill, N.Y. (5)
9 22G Mitch Gibbs/North Norwich, N.Y. (23)
10 62 Todd Burley/Spencerport, N.Y. (8)
11 9R Brian Weaver/Windsor, N.Y. (17)
12 93D Jim Davis/Ballston Spa, N.Y. (24)
13 25R John Ramsey/Rome, N.Y. (3)
14 7J Danny Johnson/Phelps, N.Y. (30)
15 X Chad Phelps/Mexico, N.Y. (12)
16 61 Jamie Christian/West Winfield, N.Y. (14)
17 17 Ted Lamb/Clay, N.Y. (6)
18 5 David Orr/Oneida, N.Y. (11)
19 H24 Andy Bachetti/Sheffield, Mass. (28)
20 19K Paul Kinney/Oneida, N.Y. (21)
21 B2 Bob Henry Jr./Clay, N.Y. (29)
22 15 A.J. Romano/Johnstown, N.Y. (20)
23 77F Mark Flach Jr./Coxsackie, N.Y. (26)
24 30 Gus Schmidt/Liverpool, N.Y. (18)
25 99 Bill Shantel Jr./Chittenango, N.Y. (19)
26 42B Kevin Bates/Lake Ariel, Pa. (16)
27 1X Willy Decker/Vernon, N.Y. (9)
28 8J Tom Sears Jr./Clay, N.Y. (15)
29 3D Matt DeLorenzo/Voorheesville, N.Y. (25)
30 93B Ryan Bartlett/Adams, N.Y. (27)

Entries: 41
Lap leaders: Varin (1-14), B. Decker (15-17), A. Johnson (18-22),
B. Decker (23-28), A. Johnson (29-68)
Heat winners: Friesen, B. Decker, Ramsey*, Fuller
Consi winners: Kinney, Ward
*Pat Ward actually won heat, but withdrew car due to mechanical issues

Did Not Qualify:
45H Don Mattison/Wells, Vt.
42 Brian Murphy/Cicero, N.Y.
5J Dale Planck/Homer, N.Y.
6T Pete Taylor/Marcellis, N.Y.
3 Jeff Kotary/Rome, N.Y.
7J Jeff Isabel/Pennellville, N.Y.
39D Dustin Delaney/Mayfield, N.Y.
109 Terry Knoblock/Warners, N.Y.
63 Steve Roberts/Watertown, N.Y.
6J Joe Isabel/Pennellville, N.Y.
6M Ken McGuire/Troy, N.Y.

ALAN BARKER, TOM DENTON, BRANDON WARNER, AND KEVIN BUFF POST WINS ON MIRABITO “THE ENERGY LEADER” NIGHT AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- Mirabito “The Energy Leader” presented an action packed event at the Utica-Rome Speedway with Alan Barker taking his first career Sportsman win at the Vernon oval while Tom Denton took home the Pro Stock honors. Brandon Warner was handed the win in the Pure Stocks after post race technical inspection disqualified the first car across the line while Kevin Buff took his second consecutive IMCA Modified win. Alan Johnson took the win in the “Remembering Alex Friesen” 68-lap Race of Champions Dirt Modified event with Billy Decker and Tim Fuller chasing. See Race of Champions release for full details.

Alan Barker took off from his pole starting position at the drop of the green flag of the 20 lap Sportsman main, looking to shake off opening night’s bad luck. Despite several early cautions and challenges from a host of drivers that included Michael Teachout, Casey Williams, Tim Mayne, Tim Nye, Mike Button, and Kyle Lewis, Barker wasn’t about to let this race out his grasp as he raced away to his first career Utica-Rome Speedway win. Lewis, Nye, Billy Price, and Button followed Barker across the line.

Another driver looking shake early bad luck was Pro Stock driver Bill Knapp led the opening laps of the Pro Stock main event. Chad Ray and Don Decker pressured Knapp throughout the first half of the 20 lap event with Decker getting the advantage at the halfway point. Decker led for the next three circuits until 13th place starter Tom Denton grabbed the top spot as lap 13 was being scored. Denton would hold to score his first win of the season with Decker holding on to second. Filling out positions three through five were Chris Mackey, Knapp, and Jim Normoyle.

In the Pure Stock feature event, Shawn Dunn beat fellow front row starter Abbey Thorp to turn one to lead lap one with Chuck Cushman charging from 10th to lead the second circuit. Cushman would immediately be pressured by Curt Prevo with Prevo leading lap four. Cushman regained the lead on lap five and would off all challengers throughout the mid portion of the 15 lap event. On lap 12, Prevo would sneak by again to lead the event and would lead the field across the finish line. Prevo would come up light at the scales, giving Brandon Warner the win who chased Prevo across the line. Ron Hawker, Cushman, Chris Cunningham, and Russ Marsden filled out the top five spots.

Dale Caswell and Kevin Buff traded the lead several times in the early portions of the IMCA Modified A Main with Buff finally taking the lead for good on lap eight. Caswell would take the runner-up spot with Jim Roberts, Mark Chrzanowski, and Mike Smith trailing.

Action resumes on May 21 at the “Action Track of the East” when North Norwich Motors and Trailer Sales presents a regular show 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m. More information can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by calling (315) 829-4557.

MIRABITO “THE ENERGY LEADER” RACE SUMMARY
SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20 LAPS)- ALAN BARKER, Kyle Lewis, Tim Nye, Bill Price, Mike Button, Casey Williams, Matt Janczuk, Tim Mayne, Brad Alger, Danny Varin, Jeff Leslie, Jeremy Vunk, Paul Carey, Michael Teachout, John DeForest, Jamie Yankowski, Craig Pope, Jessica Zemken, Steve Kotary, and Steve Way.

IMCA MODIFIED FEATURE (15 LAPS)- KEVIN BUFF, Dale Caswell, Jim Roberts, Mark Chrzanowski, Mike Smith, Aaron Jacobs, Bob Banks, Pete Anderson, and Bill Anderson.

PRO STOCK FEATURE FINISH (20 LAPS)- TOM DENTON, Donnie Decker, Chris Mackey, Bill Knapp, Jim Normoyle, Chad Ray, Dave Moyer, Bret Belden, Mark Effner, Rob Seavy, Jim Money, Bernie Companion, Todd Fey, Ed Ostander, Dave Cushman, AJ Digsby, Jerry Holmes, and Dwight Johnson.

PURE STOCK FEATURE FINISH (15 LAPS)- BRANDON WARNER, Ron Hawker, Chuck Cushman, Chris Cunningham, Russ Marsden, Darl Ellis Sr., Dave Mannise, Shawn Dunn, Jim Lewis, Dan Hofmann Sr., Tim Janczuk, Kelly Pope, Jim Donaldson, George Schulz, Chris Smiedy, Art Newman, Jim Thomas, Herm Staats, Keith Stevenson, Abbey Thorp, Frank Hyatt, Matt Ball, Pete Kowalski, Phil Norman, Andy Potter, Nate Jacobs, Chris Carr, and Curt Prevo.

BRIAN WEAVER’S MISFORTUNES HAND WIN TO TED LAMB ON OPENING NIGHT AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- Perfect weather and smooth track conditions led to outstanding racing action at the regular season opener at the Utica-Rome Speedway with Ted Lamb benefiting from Brian Weaver’s misfortune to take the 358-Modified 30 lap feature event. Paul Carey, Jerry Holmes, and Russ Marsden started their defense of the Sportsman, Pro Stock, and Pure Stock championships as they each won the main events in their respective divisions as Kevin Buff took the IMCA main.

Ted Lamb and Willy Decker led the 358-Modified 30 lap main to the green flag with Decker holding the early advantage by leading the first lap. Lamb would shoot back out front on the next circuit using the low side as Decker was rim riding all around the speedway. Lamb would hold on to the top spot until Decker barely beat Lamb to the line to lead lap seven. Lap eight saw Lamb get back by Decker for the top spot and slowly pulled away. As the two leaders battled, Brian Weaver was making a methodical charge to the front from his ninth starting spot. Weaver moved into the top five on lap six, into fourth on lap 12, and third on lap 14. By lap 16 Weaver moved by Decker into the runner-up spot and set his sights on Lamb.

Coming off turn 4 as lap 20 was about to be counted, Weaver got underneath Lamb and motored by Lamb to take over the lead. Weaver steadily worked his was through lapped traffic in the caution free event while opening a slight margin over Lamb. On the white flag lap, Weaver’s fine run came to and end as he slowed in turn 3 with motor problems handing the lead and the win to Lamb. Bobby Varin, Todd Burley, Decker, and Weaver rounded out the top five.

Jeremy Vunk took control of the 20 lap Sportsman feature, jumping out to the front at the drop of the green. Paul Carey, the 2006 Sportsman Utica-Rome Speedway champion, used to high side of the speedway to climb from 10th starting spot to the lead by lap seven with Kyle Lewis coming to the front with him. Lewis and Carey used two distinctive grooves as they raced for the top spot, with Carey on the top side and Lewis on low side on the speedway. Lewis nipped Carey for the lead on lap 17 but Carey wasn’t about to give up as he motored back around for the lead and the win on the next circuit. Lewis crossed on second, with Mike Button, Brad Alger, and Steve Way filling out the top five positions.

Tom Denton led the first two circuits of the Pro Stock feature event with Bret Belden taking over on lap 3. Belden seemed to have the event well in hand as he stretched out a sizeable lead until a lap 17 caution erased his lead. Jerry Holmes used the caution to his advantage as he jumped the outside of Belden to take over by lap 18 and he raced off with the win. Denton, Belden, Jim Normoyle, and Don Decker chased Holmes across the line.

Ron Hawker and Russ Marsden battled back and forth for the win in the Pure Stock main event with Marsden able to able to hold back all of Hawker’s challenges for the win. Hawker finished in second with Chuck Cushman making a late race charge for third. Chris Cunningham and Brandon Warner finished the top five.

Kevin Buff put on a dominating performance in the IMCA Modified A Main by winning by a huge margin in the caution free event. Bill Anderson, Jimmy Roberts, Dale Caswell, and Aaron Jacobs filled out the top five.

Next week, on May 14, the “Action Track of the East” will play host the second stop of the Race of Champions Dirt Modified tour when Mirabito “The Energy Leader” presents the “Remembering Alex Friesen” 68 lap, $4,000 to win main event. Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds are also on the schedule. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m. For more information, log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call (315) 829-4557.

RACE SUMMARY
358-MODIFIED FINISH (30 LAPS)- TED LAMB, Bobby Varin, Todd Burley, Willy Decker, Brian Weaver, Jamie Christian, Andy Bachetti, Jack Johnson, AJ Romano, David Orr, Mark Flach, Bob Henry, Paul Kinney, Don Mattison, John Ramsey, Jeff Kotary, Dave Bargabos, Gus Schmidt, Brian Murphy, Joel Thomas, and Ken McGuire.

SPORTSMAN FINISH (20 LAPS)- PAUL CAREY, Kyle Lewis, Mike Button, Brad Alger, Steve Way, Tim Nye, Matt Janczuk, Jeremy Vunk, Casey Williams, Billy Price, Steve Kotary, John DeForest, Danny Varin, Jeff Leslie, Jamie Yankowski, Tim Mayne, Dan Yankowski, Mike Teachout, and Alan Barker.

PRO STOCK FINISH (20 LAPS)- JERRY HOLMES, Tom Denton, Bret Belden, Jim Normoyle, Donnie Decker, Rob Seavy, Bernie Companion, AJ Digsby, Dave Moyer, Mark Effner, Chris Mackey, Ed Ostrander, Jim Money, Todd Fey, Chad Ray, and Bill Knapp.

PURE STOCK FINISH (15 LAPS)- RUSS MARSDEN, Ron Hawker, Chuck Cushman, Chris Cunningham, Brandon Warner, Darl Ellis Sr., Glenn Forward, Curt Prevo, Phil Norman, Jim Thomas, Kelly Pope, Tim Janczuk, George Schulz, Jim Lewis, Chris Smiedy, Frank Hyatt, Chris Carr, Art Newman, Abbey Thorp, Andy Potter, Mike Harrison, Keith Stevenson, Nate Jacobs, Shawn Dunn, and Rick Condes.

IMCA MODIFIED FINISH (15 LAPS)- KEVIN BUFF, Bill Anderson, Jim Roberts, Dale Caswell, Aaron Jacobs, Pete Anderson, Mark Chrzanowski, Bob Banks, Ken Rogers, Eric Nier, Mike Smith, and JJ Courcy.

UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY TO CONTINUE MOTHER’S DAY TRADITION THIS SUNDAY WITH RACE OF CHAMPIONS DATE

VERNON, NY- Utica-Rome Speedway will continue it’s tradition of running a special event on Mother’s Day on May 14 when Mirabito “The Energy Leader” presents the “Remembering Alex” 68 lap Race of Champions Dirt Modified Special in honor of Alex Friesen. Also scheduled to compete on this very special night are the Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m.

Alex Friesen was an ambitious and charismatic promoter that was popular among fans and racers alike. Promoting weekly events at different venues across the state, such as Fulton, Utica-Rome, Ransomville, and Lancaster, as well as special events at other famed tracks across the Northeast, his shows usually had a twist to add to their entertainment value for the fans. He was not only a promoter though, as he raced too, mainly in the Sportsman division. Friesen, normally raced with the number 68 on the side of the car, would garner several wins in the division and when running in events that he promoted, he would often remove himself from the finishing order to not take away from the drivers he competed against. Friesen’s crowning moment as a driver would come as part of the Super DIRT Week festivities in 1996 when he won the Non-Qualifiers event and made the Modified finale where he finished 34th. Tragically, just as he was about to announce a major series for the 358-Modifieds Friesen’s life was cut short in a December 1996 snowmobile accident.

The Big Blocks and Small Blocks will compete together, with $4,000 going to the victor, in the 68 lap main with the rules structured so they both can be competitive with each other, with the highest finishing 358-Modified getting a $500 bonus. To add a new twist in honor of Friesen who was a fan of the sail panels that were used on the 358-Modifieds back then, sail panels will be allowed for all Modifieds and 358-Modifieds for this event as well as the August 20 date. The specs for the sail panels are as follows: "rear quarter panels/sail panels can extend back to 48 inches maximum (measured from center of rear axle to rear of car including spoiler). Maximum height of sail panels is 65 inches, measured from the ground to the highest point. Window/sail panels cannot extend forward beyond the back of the driver's seat and must mirror size and shape side for side." For complete rules, visit the Race of Champions Dirt Modified website at www.rocdirt.com.

Last season track regulars Bobby Varin and Mitch Gibbs tied for the overall RoC title with Varin sweeping both events at the speedway. Some of the biggest names in Modified business are expected to enter this event as there are no conflicting races currently scheduled anywhere.

Every Utica-Rome Speedway 358-Modified competitor will get 20 points towards the season long point standings for attempting to qualify for this event. The Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds will compete in regular events will full points being awarded. Grandstand admission is set at $15 with pit admission at $25.

Utica-Rome Speedway is located on Route 5 in Vernon NY, just minutes from the New York State Thruway. More information can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by calling the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

JERRY HOLMES TAKES HUGE PRO STOCK PAYDAY AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- The third time is the charm.

After 2 attempts and 6 months after the originally scheduled date, the Mid-Hudson Concrete Products Pumpkin Pie Leftovers finally was run off under clear blue skies. Jerry Holmes dominated the late stages of the Pepsi 100 to take the $3,000 top prize plus lap money for the Pro Stocks. Jessica Zemken won her first Sportsman feature off the year with Russ Marsden taking the Pure Stocks. Ken Carson Jr. won the Four Cylinder Super Stocks while Chuck Hebing and Don Harvey Jr. taking the Patriot Sprints and Central New York Mini-Sprints mains respectively

Dave Moyer took the early lead at the start of the Pepsi 100 and looked strong in the early going, leading the first 15 laps. A battle royal for position was going on behind the leader Moyer between Jerry Holmes, Roy Fifield, Louie Jackson, and James Henry with Jackson taking the position at lap 15. While challenging Moyer for the lead on the 16th circuit, Jackson made contact with Moyer and spinning him out. Jackson was sent to the rear for his actions.

Henry assumed the lead for the next 2 circuits until Yetman sped by on lap 19. Wade Decker made an impressive charge to the front as he took the lead by lap 24 after starting 12th. While everyone was dicing for the lead in the early portion of the event, Holmes sat quietly in the top 3 waiting for his opportunity to take the top spot. His chance came on lap 30 when he slipped by Yetman for lead. Holmes would race away to the 40 lap break with the lead with Moyer recovering to come back up to 2nd, Joey Ladouceur in 3rd, Henry in 4th, and Fifield in 5th.

Holmes continued what he started in the 1st segment in the 2nd 60 lap segment as he easily raced away from the pack at the drop of the green. Despite several cautions bringing Holmes back to the rest of the field, Holmes was easily the best car on the track as he dominated the last half of the event. The real battle was for 2nd between Moyer and Henry as the swapped the position several times until Bob Buono slipped by both in the last 5 circuits for the runner-up spot. Buono would hold the position until the end with Henry, Jackson, and Fifield filling out the top 5. Amazingly, after taking the checkered flag, Holmes lost a rear tire off his speedy mount on the cool down lap.

Mike Button and Matt Janczuk led the Sportsman field to the green flag of their 20 lap event with local veteran Button grabbing the early lead. Jessica Zemken and 2005 champion Paul Carey immediately made their presence felt, both pressuring the leader Button. A lap 6 restart saw Zemken and Carey both go around Button with Billy Price coming with them. Lap 9 saw Carey drop off the pace with a flat tire giving the lead to Price who had just gotten by Zemken. A circuit later, Zemken returned the favor when she passed Price and would never relinquish the top spot the rest of the way. Chasing the winner Zemken across the stripe were Price, Kyle Lewis, Janczuk, and Tim Nye.

Chris Cunningham led the opening 2 circuits of the Pure Stock feature event until the familiar face of 2006 champion Russ Marsden took over on the 3rd lap. Shawn Dunn, Ron Hawker, and Jim Thomas all would take turns in the 2nd position but none of them had anything for Marsden. Marsden would lead the field to the checkered with Thomas coming in 2nd, Cunningham in 3rd, Glenn Forward in 4th, and Dunn in 5th.

Ken Carson, Jr. grabbed the lead from Chuck Powelczyk at the start of the Four Cylinder Super Stock feature and would hold on to that spot for the remainder of the 15 lap affair. Lenny Miller, Powelczyk, Matt Wetterer, and Lorraine Powelczyk filled out the remainder of the top 5 finishing positions.

Next week “The Action Track of East” will start off its regular season schedule with a regular show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m. For more information please log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call (315) 829-4557.

MID-HUDSON CONCRETE PRODUCTS RACE SUMMARY
PRO STOCK (100 LAPS)- JERRY HOLMES, Bob Buono, James Henry, Louie Jackson, Roy Fifield, Dave Moyer, Jim Normoyle, Tom Denton, Dennis Gauvreau, Kenny Gates, Eric Vanderhoof, Jim Langenback, Tom Barron, Mark Effner, Chris Mackey, Chad Ray, AJ Digsby, Wade Decker, Richard Post, Joey Ladouceur, Mitchell Jock, Rob Yetman, Bret Belden, Chris Stahl, and John Pietrowicz.

SPORTSMAN (20 LAPS)- JESSICA ZEMKEN, Billy Price, Kyle Lewis, Matt Janczuk, Tim Nye, Alan Barker, Danny Varin, Mike Button, Steve Way, Brad Alger, Jeremy Vunk, Casey Williams, Tim Mayne, Michael Teachout, Steve Kotary, Jamie Yankowski, Paul Carey, Lee Manlick, and Craig Pope.

PURE STOCK (15 LAPS)- RUSS MARSDEN, Jim Thomas, Chris Cunningham, Glenn Forward, Shawn Dunn, Jim Lewis, Phil Norman, Tim Janczuk, Chuck Cushman, George Schulz, Kelly Pope, Frank Hyatt, Ron Hawker, Mike Harrison, Abbey Thorp, Herm Staats, Nate Jacobs, Matt Ball, Keith Stevenson, Andy Potter, Chris Carr, and Jeff Donnelly.

FOUR CYLINDER SUPER STOCK (15 LAPS)- KEN CARSON JR., Lenny Miller, Chuck Powelczyk, Matt Wetterer, Lorraine Powelczyk, Scott Rothwell, Chris Kranz, John Money, Marty Kelly, DJ Faulkner, Sam Curcie, and Lee Hartzog.

PATRIOT SPRINT GROUP TOP 5 (25 LAPS)- CHUCK HEBING, Jeff Cook, Mike Stelter, Bryan Howland, and Mike VanDusen.

CNY MINI-SPRINT TOP 5 (20 LAPS)- DON HARVEY JR., Rich Wood, Art Kiser, Johnny Guarino, and Skip Travis.

FOCUS SHIFTS TO THIS WEEKEND’S ACTIVITIES AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY AFTER SUCCESSFUL PRACTICE SESSION

VERNON, NY- After a successful Test and Tune session on Wednesday evening, April 26, at the Utica-Rome Speedway, focus is now on the upcoming weekend’s event. On Sunday, April 30, Mid-Hudson Concrete Products present the Pepsi 100 for the Pro Stocks plus a complete show of Patriot Sprints, Central New York Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Four Cylinder Stocks.

As part of the Pumpkin Pie Leftovers that was rescheduled from last October, the Pro Stocks will compete in a 100 lap affair with a huge sum of $3,000 going to the winner plus over $2,500 in lap money available. This Sunday’s show will go down as one of the largest Pro Stock events run, drawing cars from every corner of the Northeast. Gates open at Noon with racing scheduled for 2 p.m. Admission for this action packed show is just $11 for the grandstands.

Nearly 50 cars took part in Wednesday’s practice session with Andy Bachetti and Paul Kinney blistering the Vernon oval in the 19 second flat range. In the 5 Sprint cars on hand, former UR 358-Modified pilots Gordy Button and Jason Barney were fastest, setting lap times in the mid 16 second range. 2006 Sportsman champion joined Kyle Lewis, Jessica Zemken, Tim Nye, Jeremy Vunk, Billy Price, and more for some quick laps with Lewis holding the edge in quick time according to the AMB scoring system. 10 Pro Stocks took the track for practice, including defending champion Jerry Holmes, Bill Knapp, Bret Belden, Tom Denton, rookie Chris Mackey, Mark Effner, and more with Denton’s night ending with a blown motor. Russ Marsden and Chuck Cushman led the way for the large Pure Stock contingent with both setting some impressive lap times. Aaron Jacobs was the lone IMCA Modified participant with Ken Carson shaking down his Four Cylinder Super Stock.

“The Action Track of the East” is located on Route 5 in Vernon NY, easily accessible from the New York State Thruway. Normal race nights are on Sunday evenings with a regular show consisting of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. Log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com for more information or call the speedway at (315) 829-4557.

REGULAR SEASON AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY TO KICK OFF ON MAY 7

VERNON, NY- The 2006 season is about to officially set to begin at the Utica-Rome Speedway on May 7 with a regular show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing starting at 5:30 p.m.

Local driver Willy Decker, from Vernon, took home $8,000 for winning the 358-Modified track championship last season and hopes to repeat that feat this season. For Decker to become the first driver to repeat since the start of the over $25,000 358-Modified point fund he would have to hold off a strong field of drivers that includes Todd Burley, Bobby Varin, Andy Bachetti, Gus Schmidt, Paul Kinney, Ted Lamb, Jamie Christian, Jack Johnson, John Ramsey, and more. The chase for the 358-Modified championship starts this Sunday.

The Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds all will also be in action, starting their runs to their respective championships. Admission is just $11 for adults for the action packed show with pit admission set at $25.

Utica-Rome Speedway is easily found on Route 5 in Vernon NY, just minutes from New York State Thruway Exit 33. More information can be found on the speedway website at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by calling the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

RAIN POSTPONES UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY PRACTICE UNTIL WEDNESDAY APRIL 26

VERNON, NY- After rain fell for more than 24 hours and more forecasted, Utica-Rome Speedway management decided to postpone Sunday’s scheduled Test and Tune session until Wednesday April 26. Gates will open at 5 p.m. with practice schedule from 7-10 p.m. Pit admission will be $10 with the grandstands free of charge.

Wednesday’s scheduled practice session will allow teams to shake down their equipment before this Sunday’s, April 30, running of the Pumpkin Pie Leftovers presented by Mid-Hudson Concrete Products. The Pumpkin Pie event, rescheduled from last October will feature a complete show of qualifying heats, consolations, and the “Pepsi 100” for the Pro Stocks. The winner of the 100 lap event will get a cool $3,000 for their efforts with over $2,000 in lap money also available, making this the Pro Stock event of the year in the Northeast. Joining the Pro Stocks will be the Patriot Sprint Group, CNY Mini-Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. Gates will open at Noon with racing slated for 2 p.m. Admission for this action packed show is just $11 with pit admission at $25. A full set of rules for the Pro Stocks is available at www.uticaromespeedway.com.

Utica-Rome Speedway is located on Route 5 in the village of Vernon, just minutes from New York State Thruway Exit 33. More information can be found at the speedway website at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by calling the speedway office (315) 829-4557.

GREEN FLAG TO FLY THIS SUNDAY AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY FOR BIG PRO STOCK EVENT

VERNON, NY- The 2006 season at Utica-Rome Speedway finally is ready to take the green for the first time on April 30 with the running of the Pumpkin Pie Leftovers presented by Mid-Hudson Concrete Products. A complete show of Pro Stocks, Patriot Sprints, Central New York Mini-Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. Gates open at Noon with racing to begin at 2 p.m.

Headlining the action packed event is the Pepsi 100 for the Pro Stocks which pays a whopping $3,000 to the victor with over $2,000 in lap money available. For years, the Pro Stocks have put on some of the best racing at speedways across the Northeast and now they have a show to puts them in the spotlight. Some of the best Pro Stock pilots are expected to descend on the Vernon oval to take home the top prize.

In just a few short years, the Patriot Sprint Group has gone from another upstart sanctioning body to being recognized as one of the top 360 Sprint Car series in the Northeast and on April 30 they bring their show to the Utica-Rome Speedway. With it being one of the first shows in the area for the 360 Sprints, a large field of drivers is expected to tackle the fast half mile to prepare for the upcoming season.

The CNY Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and four Cylinder Super Stocks are also scheduled to compete this Sunday. All Pro Stocks, Sportsman, and Pure Stocks will receive show up points towards their respective point standings to start their chase for the track championship.

Admission is just $11 for the grandstands with the pit entry set at $25.

Utica-Rome Speedway is located just minutes from New York State Thruway Exit 33 on Route 5 in Vernon NY. The speedway operates weekly on Sunday evenings May until mid September with a weekly show consisting of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. Special appearances during the season include the Race Champions Dirt Modified and Dirt Sportsman Tour, Empire Super Sprints, Patriot Sprints, Capitol Region Sprint Association, and CNY Mini Sprints. Schedule information and much more can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by calling the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY READY TO KICK OFF 2006 SEASON WITH PUMPKIN PIE EVENT

VERNON, NY- The biggest Pro Stock event of the season is now just two weeks away and anticipation is already higher than it was on originally scheduled date of October 15 of 2005. Mother Nature ended all attempts to run the event then, forcing Utica-Rome Speedway management to reschedule the Pepsi 100 for the Pro Stocks presented Mid-Hudson Concrete Products for Sunday April 30. Also joining the Pro Stocks in the Pumpkin Pie Leftover event will be the Patriot Sprint Group, Central New York Mini-Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. Gates open at Noon with racing at 2 p.m. Admission for this action packed event is just $11 with pit admission at $25. Rain checks from the originally scheduled date will be honored.

A huge payday awaits the victor of the Pro Stock 100 lap affair, which will be broken into two segments, with $3,000 going to the winner. Making the event even more lucrative is the lap money being offered to the leader of each lap, totaling over $2,000. Many of the top Pro Stocks in the Northeast are expected to participate. The rules for the event have been relaxed to allow competitors from all to compete. Obviously cars the compete weekly at Utica-Rome Speedway will be legal as well as cars the meet the DIRT rulebook, but the rule package being opened up, most speedways across the state and Canada are expected to be represented. A complete list of rules is available by calling the speedway office at (315) 829-4557 or by visiting us online at www.uticaromespeedway.com.

Sprint cars always thrill the fans of the Utica-Rome Speedway when they visit the Vernon oval, and the first visit of the Patriot Sprint Group should prove no different. With such an early date scheduled with no conflicts with other sanctioning bodies, a huge throng of the winged sprinters is expected. Many of the PSG drivers have previous experience at the “Action Track of the East” in different classes. Chuck Hebing, George Suprick, and Rick Wilson are just some of the PSG regulars that have raced in the 358-Modified division in the past. Also, Gordy Button is expected back at the speedway to compete for another win. Button has vast experience at the Utica-Rome Speedway, logging 14 wins in the 358-Modifieds and 4 A Main victories in the Sprinters. 2004 Sportsman track champion Jessica Zemken will be on hand looking for her first win in the Sprints. Another driver who has won in both the Sportsman and 358-Modifieds that will be making his debut in the Sprints is Jason Barney. Barney used be a weekly competitor at the speedway, netting a win in both Sportsman and 358-Modifieds. More detailed information on the Patriot Sprint Group can be found at www.patriotsprintgroup.com.

Along with the full size Sprints, the CNY Mini-Sprints will be in competition for the first of four visits to the track. Although smaller in size, the Mini-Sprints provide thrilling action just as their full size counterparts. A complete schedule for the CNY Mini-Sprints can be found at www.cnyms.com.

All Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stocks that compete at the Utica-Rome Speedway will receive 20 points towards the 2006 Utica-Rome Speedway championship.

On Sunday April 23, a Test and Tune session is scheduled to allow anyone to get valuable track time at the speedway. Any division that will race at the Utica-Rome Speedway in 2006, including traveling divisions, will get a chance to shake the winter rust away and shake down their machines. Grandstand admission is free with pit admission set at $10. Gates will open at 11 a.m. with practice scheduled for 1 to 5 p.m.

Utica-Rome Speedway is located on Route 5 in Vernon NY, just minutes from New York State Thruway Exit 33. For more detailed direction, schedule information, rules, and more, please visit the track website at www.uticaromespeedway.com. The speedway office number is (315) 829-4557.

UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY TO BEGIN AIRING WEEKLY TV SHOW ON APRIL 16

VERNON, NY- Starting on Sunday April 16, Utica-Rome Speedway’s television show which highlights the weekly racing action the popular Vernon oval will once again hit the airwaves. FOX 33 out of Utica will air the show weekly at 10 a.m.

Every week, Steve Weed Productions of Watertown films the racing action at the Utica-Rome Speedway from multiple camera angles and pieces the film together to create the weekly show. Track announcer Jeff Barrett replaces the popular Shane Andrews to add insight into some the behind the scenes happenings as well as calling the racing action. The show also highlights some the popular drivers weekly with candid interviews, bringing fans closer to the action. The first several shows will highlight some of the 2005 action as well as show what’s ahead in 2006 at the fast half-mile speed plant. Weekly action at the speedway will consist of the 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. Special appearances are also planned for popular Sprint cars, Mini Sprints, Big Block Modifieds, and more. Anyone who isn’t able to get FOX 33, the show will available at the speedway website at www.uticaromespeedway.com. 

Competition will begin on April 30 with the Pumpkin Pie Leftovers, with Mid-Hudson Concrete Products presenting the Pepsi 100 for the Pro Stocks. With $3,000 going to the winner and over $2,000 available in lap money, this event should bring out the best in the Pro Stock division. Also racing on that date will be the Patriot Sprint Group, Central New York Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. Gates open at Noon with racing at 2 p.m. Admission is set at just $11 for the grandstands and pit admission at $25. Rain checks from the originally scheduled date in October 2005 will be honored.

Regular weekly racing will begin on Sunday May 7, with the weekly divisions of the 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds all on hand. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing slated to begin at 5:30 p.m.

Utica-Rome Speedway is located just south of the New York State Thruway in Vernon, NY. For directions, log onto www.uticaromespeedway.com or call the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

AMERICAN RACER TRACK TIRE NOW AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- Once again in 2006, American Racer tires are the mandatory tire for the 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, and Pro Stocks at the Utica-Rome Speedway. With the season drawing closer, the tires are now available for purchase at the speedway with an appointment.

The 358-Modified and Sportsman front tires are priced at $138 each with rear tires selling at $141 apiece. Pro Stock tires are available at $121 each with the optional American Racer tire for the Pure Stocks available for $96 each. Prices do not include tax which will be charged at purchase. Please call the speedway at (315) 829-4557 to set up appointment for pickup. As in 2005, drivers who purchase tires at Utica-Rome Speedway will be eligible for a refund at the annual Awards Banquet to be held at the Turning Stone Casino and Resort on November 11. Refund is based on quantity of tires purchased and driver must be present at the banquet to receive money.

The cars will hit the surface at the Utica-Rome Speedway on Sunday April 23 for a special Test and Tune session. Gates will open at 11 a.m. with practice beginning at 1 p.m. and running until 5 p.m. Grandstand admission is free with pit admission set at $10. Rain date for the practice session is set for April 26.

Race competition is scheduled to start on Sunday April 30 with a holdover event from 2005. Mid-Hudson Concrete Products will present the Pepsi 100 for the Pro Stocks, with a huge $3,000 payday set to go the victor of the 100 lap affair. Over $2,000 has been raised in lap money, making this arguably the highest paying Pro Stock event ever in the Northeast. Filling out the race card for the Pumpkin Pie “Leftovers” is a complete show of Patriot Sprints, Central Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. Gates open at Noon with racing slated for 2 p.m. Grandstand admission will be just $11 with pit entry costing $25.

The official 2006 Grand Opening is set for the following Sunday on May 7. The 358-Modifieds will begin their quest for the $8,000 winner’s share of the over $25,000 point fund with Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds also beginning their quest for their respective titles. Gates open 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m.

More information such as directions, schedule, track history, and more is available by visiting www.uticaromespeedway.com. The track phone number is (315) 829-4557.

UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY INKS TWO ALL-STAR DASH QUALIFIERS FOR AFTON’S SHORT TRACK SUPERNATIONALS

VERNON, NY- A season after jumping on board with the newly formed Race of Champions Dirt Modified Tour, Utica-Rome Speedway has lined itself with another event that is geared towards the weekend warrior. Utica-Rome Speedway has inked two dates as All-Star Dash Cash qualifiers for the newly created Brett Deyo promotion, the Short Track SuperNationals to be held at the New Afton Speedway on October 6-7.

Deyo, who handles the Public Relations duties at Accord, Five Mile Point Speedway, and the Race of Champions Dirt tours, has joined with Pat Jordan of New Afton Speedway to present this venture. By winning the 358-Modified events on Sunday, June 4 and Sunday, July 16 at the Utica-Rome Speedway, a driver will gain a spot for the 10-lap All-Star Dash Cash held on SuperNationals weekend at the Afton NY oval. The winner of the 10-lap dash will receive a hefty $1,000 for their efforts. This new Columbus Day event, even though it shares the same weekend as the traditional Super DIRT Week in Syracuse is being designed to compete with the events at the Syracuse mile. Instead, it’s another option for racers who are unable or unwilling to put forth the finances needed to compete at Syracuse that would normally sit out that weekend. Utica-Rome Speedway joins Accord (NY), Afton (NY), Five Mile Point (NY), and Penn-Can (PA) Speedway in hosting All-Star Cash Dash Qualifiers for the Short Track SuperNationals. Details will soon be available at www.shorttracksupernationials.com or by calling Brett Deyo at (845) 728-2781 or (845) 565-4850.

Utica-Rome Speedway will come to life on Sunday April 23 for a special Test and Tune Session. Gates will open at 11 a.m. with practice scheduled from 1 p.m. to 5p.m. Grandstand admission will be free to the public while pit admission is set at just $10 per person.

The following weekend, on Sunday April 30, will see the running of the Mid-Hudson Concrete Products Pumpkin Pie Leftovers originally scheduled for October 2005. On tap will be one of the richest events ever held for the Pro Stock division. The “Pepsi 100” will pay a stunning $3,000 to the winner of the 100-lap Pro Stock event along with over $2,000 in lap money. Also on the schedule for the that day are the Patriot Sprint Group, Central New York Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. Gates will open at Noon with racing at 2 p.m. Grandstand admission is set at $11 with pit admission at $25. Rain checks from the original date in 2005 will be honored.

Sunday May 7 will officially kick off the regular season at the “Action Track of the East” with at regular show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m.

More information on the upcoming season can be obtained by visiting us on the web at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by calling the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

NYE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP TO AGAIN SUPPLY PACE VEHICLE AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY IN 2006

VERNON, NY- For the second consecutive year, the Nye Automotive Group is providing the official pace vehicle for the Utica-Rome Speedway in 2006. Currently, a 2006 GMC truck is planned to pace the field around the spacious Vernon half-mile oval.

The Nye Automotive Group sells and services many makes of automobiles including Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Toyota, Pontiac, and GMC, both new and used. Servicing the Central and Upstate New York region for more than 30 years, customers come from all over to shop their beautiful showroom conveniently located at 1479 Genesee Street in Oneida NY. Nye Automotive also offers a full service department, a parts department, and a modern body shop. More information on the Nye Automotive Group, including an online inventory of new and used vehicles, can be found at www.nyeauto.com or by calling (315) 363-0600. Utica-Rome Speedway would like to thank the Nye Automotive Group for their continued support of local auto racing.

The cars and stars of the Utica-Rome Speedway will first see on track action on Sunday, April 23, for a Test and Tune session. Gates will open at 11 a.m. with practice running from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Pit admission will be $10 per person with the grandstand open to the public at no charge.

Competition will begin on April 30 with the running of the Pumpkin Pie Leftovers presented by Mid-Hudson Concrete Products. The Pro Stocks will take center stage in a 100 lap affair with a huge $3,000 payday for the victor plus over $2,000 in lap money. Joining the Pro Stocks will be the Patriot Sprint Group, Central New York Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. Gates open at Noon with racing at 2 p.m. Rain checks from the originally schedule date last October will be honored, otherwise pit admission is set at $25 per person with the grandstand admission set at $11.

Utica-Rome Speedway is located on Route 5 in Vernon NY, just minutes from New York State Thruway Exit 33. A full 2006 schedule, the 2006 rulebook, and more information can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com. The speedway can be contacted at (315) 829-4557.

TEST AND TUNE SESSION AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY JUST A MONTH AWAY

VERNON, NY- With the Test and Tune session scheduled for April 23 at the Utica-Rome Speedway just a month away, speedway officials and management are busy preparing for the 45th season opener at the Vernon speed plant.
At the recent Motorsports Expo at the New York State Fairgrounds, General Manager Dick Sweet and various other track officials were on hand all weekend long answering questions and handing out schedule cards to race fans and drivers. Judging by the response, 2006 could be a banner year at the Gene Cole owned facility. Several drivers from the Utica-Rome Speedway were on hand with the race machines, which included the 2006 358-Modified champion Willy Decker, and fellow competitors Gus Schmidt, Paul Kinney, and David Orr as well as the Kyle Lewis Sportsman racer. 2006 Pro Stock champion Jerry Holmes also had his championship winning car on display.
The gates for the Test and Tune session on April 23 will open at 11 a.m. with on track practice schedule for 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Pit entry will cost just $10 per person with the grandstands open to the public free of charge.
Racing action will begin at the “Action Track of the East” on April 30 when Mid-Hudson Concrete Products presents the Pumpkin Pie Leftovers. This event was originally scheduled for October of last year until Mother Nature interfered. The complete new program will have the Patriot Sprint Group, Central New York Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, Four Cylinder Super Stocks, and Pro Stocks in action. The Pro Stocks will compete in the Pepsi 100 with $3,000 going to the victor, along with over $2,000 in lap money available. Gates will open at Noon with racing at 2p.m. Lap sponsorships are still available at just $20 per lap. Contact the speedway office for more details.
On May 7, the 45th season officially kicks off with a regular show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. The pit gates will open at 3 p.m. with racing starting at 5:30 p.m.
Utica-Rome Speedway is located on Route 5 in Vernon NY, just minutes from New York State Thruway Exit 33. More information such as rules, directions to the track, schedule of events, and more can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com. The speedway office phone number is (315) 829-4557 for any questions.

UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY’S PRESENCE TO BE IN FULL FORCE AT THE MOTORSPORTS EXPO

VERNON, NY- Utica-Rome Speedway will once again make their presence felt at the upcoming the Annual Motorsports Expo at the New York State Fairgrounds on March 10-12. Speedway officials and some the cars and stars from “The Action Track of the East” will be on hand to greet the thousands of race fans that flock to the preseason event.
2005 358-Modified Utica-Rome Speedway Willy Decker will have his mount on hand along with fellow 358-Modified competitors Paul Kinney and Gus Schmidt. Decker won his first 358-Modified championship last season along with the $8,000 champion’s check. Kinney and Schmidt are two drivers that will attempt to have their names on that check at the end of 2006. Jerry Holmes, the 2005 Pro Stock champion, also will have his beautiful car on display. Holmes grabbed his third Pro Stock championship at the Vernon oval in 2005 and looks to repeat in 2006. Sportsman driver Kyle Lewis will also have his ride present. Lewis had a super sophomore season in 2005, grabbing 2 wins and fourth in the point standings. Lewis led all Sportsman drivers with 16 top ten finishes last season.
General Manager Dick Sweet and track officials will be on hand all weekend long to answer questions. Schedule cards and rulebooks will also be available.
It isn’t too late to get involved in the fastest family fun in Central New York as sponsorship opportunities are still available. Event sponsorship, commercials on the weekly television show, presence on the speedway website, billboards, and more are just some of the ways to get involved at the Utica-Rome Speedway. Details can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by visiting the Utica-Rome Speedway booth at the Motorsports Expo.
Any questions on the upcoming season can be answered by calling (315) 829-4557.

UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY TO OPEN 2006 SEASON WITH HUGE PRO STOCK EVENT ON APRIL 30

VERNON, NY- As the winter begins to wind down in the Central New York region, the anticipation for the upcoming 2006 racing season at the Utica-Rome Speedway is growing. Competing on a weekly basis at the Vernon oval in 2006 will be the 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds.
Starting the on track activities is a Test and Tune session for all classes on April 23. This practice session will give teams an opportunity to shake down their machines and shake off the winter rust. Pro Stocks competitors are encouraged to use this day to get ready for the Pumpkin Pie event the following week. Gates will open at 11 a.m. with practice starting at 1 p.m. and going until 5 p.m. Pit admission is set for $10 with grandstand admission free of charge.
On April 30, Mid-Hudson Concrete Products will present the Pumpkin Pie Leftovers. Originally scheduled for October 2005, the Pumpkin Pie race will start over as a brand new program. The Pro Stocks will compete for an astounding $3,000 to win plus nearly $2,000 in lap money in a 100 lap grind. Joining the Pro Stocks will be the Patriot Sprint Group, Central New York Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. Any Pro Stock, Sportsman, or Pure Stock who enter will receive 20 points to start their chase for the Utica-Rome Speedway track championship. Rain checks from the October will be honored with pit admission set at $25 and grandstand entry at $11 for anyone not holding a rain check. Gates will open at Noon, with racing slated to begin at 2 p.m.
On May 7 the chase for the lucrative Utica-Rome Speedway 358- Modified championship will begin. With the 2006 champion netting $8,000 of the huge $25,000 plus 358-Modified point fund, the battle for the championship should be furious. Willy Decker will return to defend his first ever 358-Modified championship with Todd Burley, Danny Johnson, Mitch Gibbs, Bobby Varin, Gus Schmidt, Paul Kinney, Ted Lamb, Jamie Christian, John Ramsey and more expected to compete for the title. Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds will join the 358-Modifieds for the official 2006 Season Opener with points beginning in all divisions. Gates will open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m.
The 2006 season will also see the return of the Race of Champions Dirt Modified and Sportsman Tours, the Empire Super Sprints, the Capital Region Sprint Car Association, and Central New York Mini Sprints, making the 2006 schedule one of the most diverse in speedway history.
A complete schedule can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com, as well as recent news, history, and online racing videos. For more information, call the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

SEASON PASSES NOW AVAILABLE FOR 2006 SEASON AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- With preparations for the upcoming 2006 season in full swing, Utica-Rome Speedway has announced their prices for season passes for both the pits and grandstand.
Anyone who wishes to purchase a season pit pass for the Vernon oval the price will remain the same as last year, which was $350. That is a savings of over $100 over the season if every event was run. Last season, entry into the pits cost $25 for every event competed. A grandstand season pass is set at $200. Admission for a regular show cost $11 with special events costing more, which varies depending on the added classes. Also still in effect for the 2006 season in the reserved seating program. For a fee of $40, a fan can reserve their favorite seat for the entire season. The $40 fee does not include admission.
More information on the upcoming season can be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com, which contains marketing opportunities, the 2006 schedule, online videos, track history, and much more. Any more questions can be answered by calling (315) 829-4557.

RACE OF CHAMPIONS DIRT MODIFIED TOUR TO MAKE 2 STOPS AT THE UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY IN 2006

VERNON, NY- After two successful showings in 2005, Utica-Rome Speedway will once again be part of the Race of Champions Dirt Modified Tour for the 2006 season. Two shows are tentatively scheduled for both the Big Block/Small Block Modifeds and the Sportsman in 2006.
The first Race of Champion event at the Vernon oval in 2006 will be on May 14 as part of the Mother’s Day Special that will have the Big Block/Small Block Modifieds compete for 68 laps for the $4,000 top prize. The second event for the Modifieds is scheduled for Sunday, August 13 for a 75 lap grind, again for $4,000 to win. The Race of Champions Sportsman events are on Sunday May 28 and Sunday August 6. Both Sportsman races are for 40 laps with $1,000 going to the victor in each. Bobby Varin was the victor in both Modified events in 2005 en route to co-championship with track regular Mitch Gibbs. Paul Carey capped off his stellar 2005 championship season in 2005 by winning the lone RoC Sportsman event held at the speedway in September. Utica-Rome Speedway joins an impressive list of tracks that are part of the Race of Champions tour in 2006. Five Mile Point Speedway, New Egypt Speedway, Penn-Can Speedway, Fonda Speedway, Albany-Saratoga Speedway, and Big Diamond Speedway are all part of the tour in 2006.
For more information on the Race of Champions Dirt Modified or Sportsman tour, log on to www.rocdirt.com. The Utica-Rome Speedway website is www.uticaromespeedway.com, which contains the complete 2006 rulebook, tentative 2006 schedule, sponsorship and marketing opportunities, and much more.
Utica-Rome Speedway first sees action on April 23 with a special Test and Tune session with racing beginning on April 30 with the rescheduled “Pumpkin Pie Leftovers” featuring the 100-lap $3,000 to win Pro Stocks event plus the Patriot Sprint Group, CNY Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. The regular portion of the season will begin a week later on Sunday May 7 with a regular show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds.

UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY TO PAY $8,000 TO 358-MODIFIED TRACK CHAMPION IN 2006

VERNON, NY- For the third consecutive season, Utica-Rome Speedway will pay out over $25,000 to its top 358-Modified drivers with $8,000 going to the track champion. Willy Decker took home the winner’s share last with Stewart Friesen winning the championship in 2004.
With continuing contributions from the Mirabito Fuel Group making this lucrative point fund possible, the rest of the top 10 paying spots will also remain intact. After the $8,000 winner’s share, the runner up spot will pay out $6,000 with $4,000, $2,500, and $2,000 being paid out to positions third, fourth, and fifth respectively. The sixth spot will get $1,500 with seventh through tenth paying $1,300, $1,200, $1,100, and $1,000. Additional money will also be paid out for using the mandatory American Racer track tire. Last season, Willy Decker took home over $9,000 between the point fund and American Racer money at the season ending Awards Banquet.
Some of the drivers expected to compete for the 358-Modified championship include Willy Decker, Todd Burley, Bobby Varin, Danny Johnson, Mitch Gibbs, Paul Kinney, Ted Lamb, Gus Schmidt, John Ramsey, Jamie Christian, and many more. Jack Johnson is also expected back for most events driving the Deek Decker owned “Deuce” ride.
The season begins at the Vernon oval on April 30th with the “Pumpkin Pie Leftovers” which features the Pepsi 100 for the Pro Stocks which was rained out last October. Joining the Pro Stocks will be the Patriot Sprint Group, CNY Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. The 358-Modified season will begin the following Sunday on May 7, starting the pursuit for the 2006 track championship. A full tentative schedule is available on the official speedway website at www.uticaromespeedway.com. The 2006 rulebook and advertising opportunities are also available online. For more information, please call the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

THE 2006 UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY RULEBOOK NOW AVAILABLE

VERNON, NY- The 2006 version of the Utica-Rome Speedway is now available for all competitors. There are two ways to get the rulebook, by visiting the speedway website at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by visiting Gates-Cole Insurance at the West Winfield location at 372 West Main Street. While there, the friendly staff can help you with all your insurance needs.
The 2006 rulebook has several changes including a crate motor option for both the Pro Stocks and Sportsman. In the 358-Modifieds, the Brodix Spec Aluminum Head that is allowed by DIRT Motorsports is now allowed for competition at the Utica-Rome Speedway. Note to all competitors, early versions of the rulebook, both on the website and the hard copy contained a misprint concerning the minimum weights of the 358-Modifieds. Any car running the Brodix Spec Aluminum Head must weigh no less than 2350 lbs., with driver. Any car running open steel heads must weigh the same as 2005, 2450 lbs., not 2350 lbs. as originally printed.
The American Racer tire will again be the mandatory track tire in the 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, and Pro Stocks for 2006. The tire point fund program that was used in 2005 will again be in action for 2006. Any regular competitor who purchases their tires at the Utica-Rome Speedway will a refund at the end of the season at the 2006 Awards Banquet held each year at the Turning Stone Casino. The amount of the refund is dependant on the number of tires purchased throughout the season. A driver must be present at the banquet to receive their tire money.
Utica-Rome Speedway will roar to life on April 23 with a special Test and Tune session for all divisions with racing action starting on April 30 with the “Pumpkin Pie Leftovers” originally scheduled for October of 2005. This event features the $3,000 to win 100-lap Pro Stock event plus the Patriot Sprint Group, CNY Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. The following Sunday, May 7, will see the 2006 officially kick off with the first regular program of the season featuring the 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. Visit us online for a tentative schedule and complete list of rules. For more information, call the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

RESCHEDULED PUMPKIN PIE TO OPEN THE 2006 SEASON AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY

VERNON, NY- The rescheduled Pumpkin Pie event from October 2005 will open the 2006 season at the Utica-Rome Speedway. On Sunday April 30, the Pro Stocks will take center stage in Pepsi 100 lap event for a stellar $3,000 to win plus lap money with the Patriot Sprint Group, CNY Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Four Cylinder Super Stocks also on the card.
Running the 100 lap event in two segments of 60 laps then a 40 lap finale, the Pro Stocks will be running for one of the richest paydays ever in the division. A huge $3,000 check will be waiting for the winner of the event, with last place paying $125. A halfway bonus of $500 is also set up for the leader of lap 50 with nearly $2,000 in lap money going to the leaders of the event. A six pack of Pepsi will also go the leader of each lap. With all the money available, a stellar field of competitors is expected.
The 2006 version of the Pumpkin Pie event will be started over from scratch, with all divisions drawing as they enter for their heats. Also, the Pro Stocks can run under the 2005 rules package with the option of running a crate motor with a 4 barrel carburetor. The Sportsman will be required to run under the 2006 rules with the exception of the tire rule, which won’t be enforced for this event. The Pure Stocks will be allowed to compete using the 2005 rules for this event only. 20 points will go to all track regulars who attempt to qualify for this event in the Pro Stocks, Sportsman, and Pure Stocks to start their 2006 championship drive.
A Test and Tune session has been scheduled for Sunday April 23 to allow competitors in any division to practice for the upcoming season. This will also allow Pro Stock drivers who don’t normally compete at the Utica-Rome Speedway to set their cars up for the Pepsi 100 the following week. A rain date for the Test and Tune session has been set for Wednesday April 26.
Utica-Rome Speedway is located in Vernon, NY on Route 5, just minutes from New York State Thruway Exit 33. More information about the speedway including sponsorship and advertising opportunities, rules, and tentative schedule can all be found at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by calling (315) 829-4557.

UTICA-ROME - TO ALL COMPETITORS AND TEAM OWNERS

VERNON, NY- The 2006 version of the Utica-Rome Speedway will soon be available. By mid January at the latest, the rulebook will be available online at www.uticaromespeeday.com or those looking for a hard copy can get their copy at the West Winfield office of Gates-Cole Insurance located at 372 West Main Street, West Winfield NY. The office phone number is (315) 822-6336.

SPRINT CARS TO INVADE UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY FIVE TIMES IN 2006

VERNON, NY- Fans of the open wheel Sprint cars will have 5 opportunities during 2006 season to see them at the Utica-Rome Speedway. The Empire Super Sprints (ESS) will have their 3 traditional holiday dates on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day weekends while the Patriot Sprint Group (PSG) and the Capital Region Sprint Car Association (CRSA) will have one date each.

ESS has become one of the top touring 360 Sprint Car Tours in the Northeast since its inception in the mid 1980’s and the racing action whenever the visit the Vernon oval has had the fans on the edges of their seats. The Patriot Sprints, another local 360 Sprint organization, will again attempt to hold their first event at the speedway as they lost their first attempt last October. The CRSA is out of Eastern New York, and is an organization for the 305 cubic inch powered sprinter. More information on these groups can be found on their respective websites at www.empiresupersprints.com, www.patriotsprintgroup.com, and www.crsasprintcars.com.

The smaller Sprint Cars of the Central New York Mini Sprints will also make multiple visits to the Utica-Rome Speedway in 2006 with a tentative schedule of 4 dates. The Mini Sprints utilize the smaller inner oval at the speedway that suits their smaller cars and motors perfectly. More information in the Mini Sprints can be found at www.cnyms.com. 

Utica-Rome Speedway’s first race date is set for April 30 when the reschedule Pumpkin Pie event from 2005 will take place with the $3,000 to win 100 lap event for the Pro Stocks joined by the Patriot Sprint Group, Central New York Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and the Four Cylinder Super Stocks. The following Sunday, May 7, will see the first regular event of the season featuring the 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds. More information on the upcoming season will soon be available on the speedway website at www.uticaromespeedway.com or by calling (315) 829-4557.

UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY RESCHEDULES PUMPKIN PIE CLASSIC ON APRIL 30

VERNON, NY- On October 15, Utica-Rome Speedway attempted to run one of the richest events ever for the Pro Stocks and despite their best efforts, rain would end all hopes of completing the event on that day. Mother Nature would also win on the scheduled rain date, forcing track management to postpone the event to 2006. The Pumpkin Pie Classic will now be run on Sunday April 30 with the Patriot Sprint Group, CNY Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, Four Cylinder Super Stocks, and Pro Stocks all in action. Gates will open Noon with racing scheduled for a 2 p.m. start.

Originally it was announced the when rescheduled, the event would start where it left off when the rains came, but after a long winter layoff it was decided to run the event in its entirety in 2006. A new complete show of qualifying heats, consolations, and feature events will be run. The format and purses will remain the same as originally announced in 2005 with the Pro Stocks running their 100 lap main event in three segments of 50, 30, and 20 laps for a stunning $3,000 to win plus lap money. All divisions will have to run under the 2006 rules which will releases shortly.

Utica-Rome Speedway has scheduled a Test and Tune session for Sunday April 23, allowing teams to test their equipment after the long winter layoff. More information on the 2006 schedule and rules will be released shortly, so be sure to keep logging on to www.uticaromespeedway.com to keep up to date on all the latest information. The speedway office can also be contacted for more information at (315) 829-4557.

UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY DROPS FOUR CYLINDERS FROM WEEKLY LINEUP IN 2006

VERNON, NY- In an effort to streamline its racing program for the upcoming 2006 race season, Utica-Rome Speedway will drop the Four Cylinder Super Stock division from the regular Sunday night race program lineup. The weekly racing program at Utica-Rome Speedway will consist of the 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks, and IMCA Modifieds.

The Four Cylinder Super Stock division was added to Utica-Rome Speedway’s weekly program in 2004 and after a season of disappointing car counts, speedway management decided to prepare the smaller inner track on a weekly basis for them to compete on for the 2005 season. By moving the division off the large half mile oval to the smaller inner track that better suited the class, it was that car counts would improve. While the racing action in the division was vastly improved in 2005, participation in the division did not. The decision to drop the division from the weekly lineup was not an easy one and Utica-Rome Speedway officials apologize for any inconvenience this decision may cause.

The Four Cylinder Super Stocks will have at least one appearance at the famed Vernon oval on 2006. The Pumpkin Pie Classic that was originally scheduled for October 2005 will be run on April 30 and the Four Cylinder Super Stocks will join the Patriot Sprint Group, CNY Mini Sprints, Sportsman, Pure Stocks, and Pro Stocks for the opening event of 2006 at the speedway.

Utica-Rome Speedway will first open its gates on Sunday April 23 for a Test and Tune session open to all division. To keep posted on any news on the Utica-Rome Speedway such as the 2006 schedule, rules, or marketing please log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call the speedway office at (315) 829-4557.

UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY HONORS CHAMPIONS, OFFICIALLY ENDS 2005 SEASON

VERONA, NY (NOVEMBER 13)- The beautiful Turning Stone Casino and Resort was the site of the 2005 Utica-Rome Speedway Awards Banquet this past Saturday evening on Saturday November 12 as over 500 attendees helped celebrate this past season at the Vernon oval. The large gathering of race teams, track officials, and fans saw nearly $85,000 in point and tire money distributed to the racers and team owners for their efforts throughout the 2005 season.

Vernon’s Willy Decker enjoyed his finest season ever behind the wheel of the Tom Cullen owned 1x, netting 2 wins and finishing every point event in the top 10. That consistency laid the groundwork for his first ever 358-Modified track championship at the Utica-Rome Speedway, becoming the first Vernon native since Sonny Seamon in the mid-70’s to win the title in the headline division at the track. Decker and his team were awarded $8,000 for their efforts in the 2005 season. Todd Burley finished in the runner-up position in the standings after garnering 4 wins on the season which gave the Spencerport driver $6,000 out of the huge 358-Modified point fund. Long time Utica-Rome Speedway regular Mitch Gibbs (1 win) finished up the season the third spot in the standings and a $4,000 check with Bobby Varin (2 wins) in fourth, netting $2,500 in point fund money. Ted Lamb (1 win) rounded out the top five in the point standings, picking up $2,000 for his fine season. Utica-Rome Speedway veteran Gus Schmidt was awarded $1,500 for his sixth place efforts, with Paul Kinney netting $1,300, Jamie Christian (2 wins) earning $1,200, John Ramsey (1 win) getting $1,100, and Don Mattison (1 win) getting $1,000 for finishing out positions seven through ten in the overall 358-Modified point standings. Utica-Rome Speedway management would once again like to thank the Mirabito Fuel Group for their large contribution to the Utica-Rome Speedway 358-Modified point fund.

Despite a very successful 25 year career driving in various classes and earning many victories, Sportsman veteran Paul Carey had never claimed a track championship. 2005 saw that change, as Carey survived one of the tightest point battles ever in the Sportsman division at the Utica-Rome Speedway to net his first ever championship. Carey’s 3 wins and 12 top 5 finishes proved to be the formula to his 2005 success. Billy Price (1 win) and Mike Button (2 wins) pressured Carey right until the final checkered flag flew, falling just short by finishing in second and third in the standings respectively. Kyle Lewis (2 wins) had breakout year in 2005 with a fine fourth place in the standings while 2004 Utica-Rome Speedway Sportsman champion Jessica Zemken struggled to repeat her success of her championship season. Zemken failed to find victory lane but completed every lap and had 8 top 5’s, netting her a fine fifth place in the final standings. Steve Way (3 wins) was in the title hunt for most of the season with late season bad luck dropping him to sixth place while young Kenny Stafford (3 wins) had up and down season en route to a seventh place finish in the final standings. Opening night winner Jeremy Vunk (1 win), Tim Nye, and Tim Mayne rounded out the top ten positions in the final Sportsman point rundown.

Jerry Holmes was honored for his fine season at the Vernon oval which saw him net 7 wins on his way his third Pro Stock title. Former Pro Stock champions Bret Belden (2 wins) and Tom Denton (2 wins) fell short in their pursuit of another title, finishing second and third in the final rundown. Mark Effner was honored for his best season, a season that showed no wins but several runner up finishes gave him a strong fourth place in the points with Jim Normoyle (1 win) rounding out the top five. Chad Ray (1 win), AJ Digsby, Bill Knapp, Don Decker, and Jason Rood (1 win) rounded out the top ten in the standings and were all recognized for their 2005 season.

Russ Marsden was honored for his second consecutive Utica-Rome Speedway Pure Stock title which saw him net an incredible 13 victories. Chris Cunningham, Rick Condes, Glenn Forward, and Ron Hawker (1 win) rounded out the top five spots in the standings while Phil Norman, Chris Mackey, Jim Thomas, Dan Hofmann (1 win), and Tim Janczuk filled out the top ten spots.

George Catanzano was once again crowned the IMCA Modified champion at the speedway after an eleven win season and only one finish outside the top five. After winning the first two events of the 2005 season, Bill Anderson slipped to the runner up spot in the standings with Kevin Buff, Aaron Jacobs, and Sean Lias (3 wins) filled out the top five point finishers. Also honored were Bob Banks, Mark Chrzanowski, Dale Caswell, Rodney True, and Mike Jacobs for finishing in positions six through ten.

In 2005, the Four Cylinder Super Stocks were moved from more familiar half mile oval to the smaller inner oval and when the dust settled at the end of the 2005 season, the championship picture remained the same. Chuck Powelczyk took home his second consecutive Four Cylinder title after taking home 4 victories on the season. Newcomer Ken Carson (5 wins) pressured Powelczyk for most of the season but fell just short, finishing in the second spot in the standings. Joey Delacruz (3 wins), Kevin Fassett, and Doug Farsnworth (1 win) rounded out the top five point positions with the rest of the top ten spots going to Rich Murtaugh (2 wins), Chris Kranz, Lorraine Powelczyk, Jim Money (Jim Money), and Adrianne Gilbert respectively.

Mike Emhof of the Central New York Mini Sprints was on hand to present the top ten finishers in the Pro Tire Service/ Parts Plus Super Series with Skip Travis taking home the top honors in the series. Jared Fink, Don Harvey, Jr., Johnny Guarino, and Mike Kiser made up the top five in the 5 race series with Daniel Lampron, Jerry Sehn, Duby Woodruff, Dale Beach, Sr., and James Tomlinson rounding out the top ten spots.

Rookie of the year honors went to Bob Henry, Jr. in the 358-Modified division, with Alan Barker taking home the honor in the Sportsman. Glenn Forward was named the top Pure Stock rookie after a top five effort in the point standings while Rodney True was given the award in the IMCA Modified ranks. Ken Carson, after a 5 win season at the speedway was the top rookie in the Four Cylinder Super Stocks. There were no rookies in the Pro Stocks.

Paul Kinney was named the Most Improved Driver in the 358-Modifieds after a marked improvement over 2004 while Kyle Lewis the recipient of the award in the Sportsman. Mark Effner’s fourth place finish in the point standings was enough to give him the Most Improved Driver for the Pro Stocks with Rick Condes earning the same award in the Pure Stocks.

Brian Weaver’s disastrous 2005 season fell far short of what he accomplished at the speedway in 2004, which made him the 358-Modified Hard Luck award winner. Casey Williams late season bad luck was enough to earn him the Hard Luck award for the Sportsman with Dave Moyer given the award in the Pro Stocks after a rough 2005 season. Kevin Fassett was given the Hard Luck award in the Four Cylinder Super Stocks while in the IMCA Modified division, the whole division was up for the award except for George Catanzano as they were left behind by Catanzano as he raced off with championship.

General Manager Dick Sweet concluded the event by stating that things are moving forward for the 2006 season, and as of right now, there will be very little change in the program that proved to be very successful in 2005. A possible shift in classes may occur, but nothing definitive has been finalized. Sweet urged everyone to keep up to date with the 2006 program by looking in the trade papers and the best way to get all the latest information, the Utica-Rome Speedway website at www.uticaromespeedway.com.

The Awards Banquet was the final event of a very successful season at the Utica-Rome Speedway, a season that saw some of the most competitive racing on the track and in the point standings ever at the Vernon speed plant. For more information on the upcoming season, please log onto the speedway website or call the speedway office at (315) 829-4557. Remember, the website will have video archived from the 2005 season to help shorten the long off-season. Speedway management would like to thank all the race teams, officials, sponsors, and fans for their continued support and for helping make the 2005 season a successful one.

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