Making history at Eldora’s 4-Crown Nationals

Damion Gardner (no.71) and Chris Windom (no.5x) tackle the Big E @ the 4-Crown Nationals in September.

When it comes to all out fender-free racing no place compares to Eldora Speedway in Rossburg, Ohio;  especially, in late September at the 4-Crown Nationals.

For 30-years the 4-Crown Nationals has been open-wheel racing heaven.   Under the current format the WoO 410 winged Sprinters do battle on Friday night, while Saturday features a topless trio of USAC Sprints, Midgets, and Silver Crown Cars.  Add into the mix annual running of USAC .25 Midget Dirt Nationals at little Eldora and there is certainly no break in the racing excitement. Continue reading “Making history at Eldora’s 4-Crown Nationals”

Hooked Up & Hauling with Brent Hook

Brent Hook takes a stand next to his no.17 Modified

Watching a black no.17 make laps around the wicked-fast high banks of Kalamazoo Speedway is not an unusual sight.   It’s also not all that uncommon to see that same no.17 in victory lane after a Modified A-Main.

For nearly three decades; Alamo, Michigan’s Brent Hook has been putting a smile on the faces of western Michigan race fans.   For Hook, the interest in auto racing was sparked by a love for cars in general, and after he graduated from Western Michigan University where he played football, Hook decided to pour his competitive nature into a Sport Stock. Continue reading “Hooked Up & Hauling with Brent Hook”

Outlaws Invade Northern Michigan!!!

The pit area was full for the World of Outlaw Series Late Model event at Merritt Raceway.

For over three decades the World of Outlaws name has been a trademark of incredibly organized and promoted dirt track racing events.   Although highly recognized;  WoO was known by all but experienced only by the open-wheel racing enthusiasts who lived for the torque and speed of 410ci winged Sprinters.   In 2004 the World Racing Group changed the game, and simultaneously the world of Dirt Late Model racing when they founded the World of Outlaw Late Model Series.    Continue reading “Outlaws Invade Northern Michigan!!!”

Scotty Baker: Turning Laps and Turning Heads

Scott Baker stands by his no.13 before an evening of racing at CMS

For Ionia, Michigan’s Scotty Baker, strapping into the cockpit of a racecar was always more than just a childhood dream, it was a passion.   

Growing up near I-96 and Crystal Motor Speedways, Scotty spent many summer nights in the grandstands, “I remember being a kid and coming to the track and watching Bob Flinn in his #02 Late Model and knowing that was what I wanted to do”.   Continue reading “Scotty Baker: Turning Laps and Turning Heads”

Rusty Zeigler is Carrying on The Family Tradition

Rusty Zeigler awaits a night of racing from the cockpit of his no.776

One cannot think of Crystal Motor Speedway without the image of a red No.776 coming to mind.   For decades the Zeigler family name has been synonymous with the 3/8-mile dirt track in Crystal, Michigan.

A regular front-runner in the IMCA division; Rusty Zeigler can’t imagine a Saturday night away from the rumble of race engines. Continue reading “Rusty Zeigler is Carrying on The Family Tradition”

Merritt Raceway: Michigan Motor Sports Hall of Fame Night 2011

MMSHoF inductees Leo Pego & Bill Whittington share their memories @ Merritt Raceway's Hall of Fame Night

Merritt Raceway in Merritt, Michigan is very rich in history.   Founded in the late 60’s Merritt has long been a Saturday night attraction and the fans in the stands have seen many Michigan racing legends make laps on the 3/8-mile clay oval.  

Several drivers who once called Merritt Raceway home have now solidified their spot in the Michigan Motor Sports Hall of Fame.   MMSHoF is an amazing organization which has honored individuals who have shaped motorsports for more than 25-years. Continue reading “Merritt Raceway: Michigan Motor Sports Hall of Fame Night 2011”

Making Memories at Crystal Motor Speedway

CMS promotor Ron Flinn readies to make pre-race laps in the water truck.

On any given summer night memories are made at local racetracks across the nation.   Whether it was watching a great pass, cheering on a favorite driver or finding joy in the smile on a Jr. Fan Club winners young face; auto racing is the most interactive spectator sport around and some tracks go the extra mile to make sure their fans leave with a smile and a great memory. Continue reading “Making Memories at Crystal Motor Speedway”