Category: Commentary

Wicked-Fast High-Banked Asphalt Racing; nothing can better describe the action at Kalamazoo Speedway in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Western Michigan comes alive with the rumble of race engines on Saturday nights at what is one of Michigan’s premier speedways.   Continue reading “Fast & Furious at Kalamazoo Speedway”

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!!!”

Although my typical USAC racing ventures feature only left-hand turns on August 14^th I took in USAC racing of a different nature at Bark River International Raceway near Escanaba, Michigan. Continue reading “Traxxas TORC Off Road Racing at Bark River”

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”

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”

Eldora Speedway…Just the name evokes images of speed, prestige and rim riding racing action.

  For 17-Years the Big E has held an annual event titled the “Dream”, an appropriate name for a race paying $100,000 to the winner.  Each of the 91-competitors entered the gates on Friday for qualifying with a dream of their own.   For some rookie’s that dream was to get seat time at the famed high-banked ½-mile in the heart of Ohio farmland, for others the dream was to land a spot on the starting grid for the 100 lapper, and for many it of course was to walk away with a large trophy and a ton of cash. Continue reading “A Dream Weekend at Eldora”

Located halfway between Houghton Lake and Lake City, Michigan on M-55, Merritt Speedway has been a home away from home for many on summer Saturday nights.   For over 40-years dust has been seen flying high above the lights and a rumble of race engines heard from the highway, and now under new management for 2011 Merritt has gotten a bit of a boost.  The name has changed to Merritt Raceway, but what’s wonderful to see and hear is that some of the familiar faces are back to make Merritt the fun and successful track we have always known existed. Continue reading “A New Look to a Familiar Place”

Since 1948 mid-eastern Michigan has come alive with the rumble of engines racing around the banks of Whittemore Speedway.

A ¼-mile high banked paved oval nestled in downtown Whittemore, Michigan, the track has many unique aspects.  Continue reading “63-Years of Awesome Racing Action at Whittemore”

Drama!…It is the one word that best describes Indianapolis 500 qualifying.

This past weekend I went to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for Tom Carnegie Pole Day and Bump Day for the 100^th running of the Great American Race.  In 2010 IMS adopted a single weekend qualifying platform replacing their old back-to-back weekend style.   This new schedule is much more fan-friendly and makes for an exciting time.   Also in 2010 they added what is deemed the “Fast 9”.  At 4pm on Pole Day qualifications for the top 24-spots are locked, and those compromising the front three-rows must re-qualify for their starting order.  With prestige and extra cash on the line, it is a great thing to see the fastest drivers push their cars to the limit one more time in an attempt to capture the pole honors. Continue reading “Intensity and Passion at Indy 500 Qualifying.”