Smith, Seidler collect second wins in Canyon Winter Challenge Series as finale weekend approaches
PEORIA, Ariz. (Feb. 13-14) – Dylan Smith and Marlyn Seidler followed different paths to the same destination at Canyon Speedway Park’s Winter Challenge Series this past weekend.
Smith drew outside row one on the grid and led all 30 laps of Saturday’s IMCA Modified feature. Seidler had to work his way through the entire field after exiting for the pits to change a flat tire 10 laps into the second $1,000 to win event of the weekend on Sunday.
Both checkered flag runs contrasted with their wins earlier in the series. Smith, the defending national champion, had to drive from 16th to first on Jan. 31 while Seidler ran in front from start to finish on Feb. 6.
“I drew two for both my heat race and the feature. It definitely helped to start up front,” Smith said after the caution-slowed Saturday outing. “The track was definitely fastest on the bottom. I tried to get away from the rest of the field and guard that line after the restarts.”
Ricky Thornton, Guy Norton, Jason Noll and J.J. Harpole rounded out the top five on Saturday.
Seidler was quick to challenge despite taking the green from the sixth row on Sunday, but cut his right front tire trying to pass for second and had to head to the pits.
Restarting at the rear, Seidler shot through the pack and passed Zane DeVilbiss for the point with 10 circuits remaining.
He’d stay at the front the rest of the way, winning ahead of Noll, DeVilbiss, Smith and Harpole.
Southwest Racing Specialties Southern SportMod features also saw repeat winners in Zach Hamilton and Garrett Funk.
Hamilton topped the Saturday show ahead of Funk and Darin Center. Funk beat Hamilton and James Webster to the checkers on Sunday.
Finale Winter Challenge weekend is fast approaching.... The 2009 IMCA National Champion and his number 95 Jet modified race team are currently leading the Winter Challenge Series points after bagging the $1000 pay day on Saturday and a respectful finish Sunday.
Consistency is paying off for local winter challenge hot shoe in his Victory modified as the finale weekend approaches. Jason Noll wheeled his 44 mod into a fourth place show spot on Saturday and second place finish this past Sunday and the El Mirage resident has quietly locked down the second spot on the charts this series.
After a disappointing finish last Saturday dropped them off of the leader board, the 7 team of Marlyn Seidler bounced back Sunday to win the feature and into a solid third spot on the points board. Seidler resides in North Dakota and has recently become a Queen Creek, AZ "snow bird".
These three teams of Smith, Noll and Seidler are in a tight points battle heading into this weekends double header and will battle it out to secure the 2010 Winter Challenge championship. The day racing at the Feb. 20 and 21 events wrap up the series for both divisions. Both Modified features are Fast Shafts All-Star Invitational ballot qualifiers. For more info go to www.canyonspeedwaypark.com
Saturday Results
Modifieds – 1. Dylan Smith, Osceola, Neb.; 2. Ricky Thornton Jr., Chandler; 3. Guy Norton, Peoria; 4. Ja son Noll, El Mirage; 5. J.J. Harpole, Farmington, N.M.; 6. Mark Stewart, Sedona; 7. Phil Penney, Percival, Iowa; 8. Randy Brown, Chowchilla, Calif.; 9. Tim Ward, Gilbert; 10. John Cox, Glendale; 11. George Fronsman, Chino Valley; 12. Mike Strobl, Glendale; 13. Tyrone Yazzie, Farmington, N.M.; 14. Shawn Zelenka, Surprise; 15. Zane DeVilbiss, Farmington, N.M.; 16. D.J. Wood, Peoria; 17. Marlyn Seidler, Underwood, N.D.; 18. Brandon Carley, Farmington, N.M.; 19. Fritz Croy, Prescott; 20. John Morris Jr., Queen Creek, Ariz.; 21. Bill Caron, Surprise; 22. Jay Foster, Phoenix; 23. Justen Yeager, Green River, Wyo.; 24. Mark Rodgers, Farmington, N.M.
Heat winners were Yazzie, Smith, Harpole and Ward. Cox won the “B” feature.
Southern SportMods – 1. Zach Hamilton, Farmington, N.M.; 2. Garrett Funk, Phoenix; 3. Darin Center, Mesa; 4. Julie Boettler, Farmington; 5. James Webster, Queen Creek; 6. Chris Caldwell, Phoenix; 7. Harland Morehart, Mesa; 8. Lupe Gomez, Phoenix; 9. Shannon Williams, Santaquin, Utah; 10. Tom Brogdon, Glendale; 11. Christy Cochran, Aztec, N.M.; 12. Justin Thornton, Chandler.
Heat winners were Funk and Center.
Sunday Results
Modifieds – 1. Seidler; 2. Noll; 3. DeVilbiss; 4. Smith; 5. Harpole; 6. Norton; 7. Fronsman; 8. Cox; 9. Ward; 10. Penney; 11. Caron; 12. Zelenka; 13. Rodgers; 14. Brady Coen, Wiley, Colo.; 15. Morris; 16. Steven Stultz, Peoria, Ariz.; 17. Neil Carden, Goodyear, Ariz.; 18. Carley; 19. Brown; 20. Yeager; 21. Wood; 22. Casey Delp, Rock Springs, Wyo.; 23. Thornton; 24. Croy.
Heat winners were Harpole, Zelenka, Cox and Coen. Ward won the “B” feature.
Southern SportMods – 1. Funk; 2. Hamilton; 3. Webster; 4. Boettler; 5. Morehart; 6. Thornton; 7. Williams; 8. Cochran.
Heat winners were Funk and Hamilton.
National Champ Cashes in on Round 2
Press Release, Canyon Speedway Park Peoria, AZ. By D.Gabbard, Februaury 1, 2010 – The First IMCA sanctioned race of 2010 is in the records. After Mother Nature spread her wrath on the desert, the Canyon team worked on rescheduling the event. The CSP Winter Challenge opener fielded forty-five IMCA modified teams this past weekend. Round two added another driver on Sunday bringing the total entries to forty-six. States represented included Arizona, Colorado, Texas, Iowa, Idaho, California, New Mexico, North Dakota, Nebraska and Canada.
California’s Paul Stone and his number 66 team took home the top spot. Arizona hot foot from Mesa 4tw Tim Ward peddled his way into the second spot. Rounding out the top five was North Dakota 7-Marlyn Seidler in third, then 2009 national champion 95-Dylan Smith from Nebraska and New Mexico stand out 87-JJ Harpole.
On Sunday the IMCA national champion 95-Dylan Smith wheeled his way from sixteenth to first. Again the 7-team of Seidler had a solid finish in the second spot and leads the Winter Challenge points going into next weekends round three and four contest. Iowa’s 21-Phil Penney bounced back to bag the third spot after his team experienced a disappointing day Saturday. Arizona hard charger 44-Jason Noll of El Mirage started twentieth in the feature event to finish fourth. Canyon’s 2007 modified champion 09-Jay Foster of Phoenix finished fifth.
The Modified Winter Challenge Series will continue next Saturday February 6th and Sunday February 7th. Check out www.canyonspeedwaypark.com for more info!
Paul Stone Claims $1,000 IMCA Win At Canyon Speedway Park’s Winter Challenge
by Dennis Daniel, DirtModifiedRacer.com
January 30, 2010 – Canyon Speedway Park (Peoria, AZ) – Winton, CA driver Paul Stone drove to victory in the 1st IMCA sanctioned Modified event of the year, winning the 30 lap, $1,000 to win feature at Canyon Speedway Park on Saturday night. The opening event of the 8 race Winter Challenge was held after a one week postponement and now will take place over four consecutive weekends. Each event pays $1,000 to win for the IMCA Modifieds.
The feature started with Stone on the outside front row with pole sitter, Shawn Zelenka. On the initial green flag, Stone set the car in turn one and nearly got sideways in front of the field but was able to get it back under control, and continue on. Before the first lap could be completed, Jay Parvin spun and was collided into by Mark Stewart, which brought the racing to a halt. A complete restart was ordered by track officials but Zelenka headed to the pits, losing his number 1 starting spot.
On the second attempt to get the race under way, Jay Foster spun in turn 1 after the green waved, again bringing out a caution with zero laps officially completed. The third attempt was the charm, as the action got under way. New pole-starting Matt Higgins, from New Mexico, grabbed the lead on the first lap but Stone was able to get back around him on lap 2 and claim the lead. With drivers from 9 states and Canada represented, a talented field comprised the 25 car field. Texas driver Chris Dawson claimed the 3rd spot, while North Dakota driver Marlyn Siedler ran 4th.
Local racer, young Tim Ward, ran 5th early on in the feature. Ward found a groove to make passes, as the bottom groove in turn 1 & 2 had gotten rough, so he moved it up high in those corners and charged by Siedler into 4th within a few laps. Two laps later, Ward again moved forward, getting by Dawson and claimed the 3rd position. Most drivers had found the fast groove, running middle of the track in turns 1 & 2, while staying glued to the bottom in 3 & 4. Dawson was able to get back around Ward a lap before the caution flag flew. Randy Brown spun, bringing out the yellow flag and was able to continue.
With a Delaware style restart, where the leader is alone on the front row and the cars doubled up behind, Stone held his lead on the waving of the green. Siedler quickly jumped into 2nd. A couple of laps later, Siedler was trying to get around Stone for the lead on the outside and took the lead a lap later. Dawson was forced way down low in turn 2 and lost ground as he clipped the muddy infield. JJ Harpole had moved into 4th, getting by Ward who had dropped to 5th. Lap 8 saw another caution flag fly as Terry Belcher Jr. hit an infield tractor tire, spun and stopped on the track. After track crews towed Belcher to the pits, Siedler lined up in front of Stone, Dawson, Harpole and Ward.
When the race resumed, Dawson tried to slide by Siedler for the lead but Siedler used a cross-over move to regain the lead. Ward pressured Stone for 3rd and took over the spot on lap 10, as action heated up throughout the pack. Within a couple of laps, Ward was challenging Dawson for second. He again used the high groove and surged into 2nd spot as the race neared the half way point. When Reeve Staley spun, the caution flag flew yet again, bunching up the field on lap 13.
As the green waved to resume racing action, Dawson broke on the front straight and forced the entire field behind him to take evasive action. All cars managed to avoid him but he remained stalled, bringing out another caution. Dawson was towed to the pits and the action was ready to resume. When the green flew, Ward ran 2nd ahead of Stone and Harpole. On the 14th lap, Stone charged past Ward to take the 2nd spot away. Soon Stone began to close on leader Seidler and would put pressure on him for the lead. A few laps later, the pressure seemed to get to Seidler as he nearly spun his car in turn 1, allowing Stone and several others to get by. Stone was again in the lead and stretched it out over Ward by 5 car lengths.
Charging from his 15th starting spot was 2009 IMCA National Champion, Dylan Smith. Smith had made it just outside the top 5 and was continuing his march towards the front. Around lap 20, Smith moved past Harpole into 3rd and set his sights on Ward in 2nd. Closing in on Ward and trying to pressure him, Smith would nearly spin himself out on lap 25, allowing Harpole to get by and retake the 3rd spot. Up front, Stone was nearing lapped traffic. Perhaps the lappers would slow him just enough to allow Ward to challenge him for the lead. Just before Stone caught the back markers, the caution flag flew on lap 27 as DJ Wood had spun.
The setup a 3 lap sprint to the finish but a single file restart would be in order, as track rules dictate when under 5 laps remain. Stone would have a chance at a clean getaway from Ward and the rest. When the final green flew, Ward tried to make a move to get under Stone but Stone pulled away. Siedler used the late race caution to mount a charge back towards the front, as he got by Harpole and Smith late to run 3rd. When the checkers flew it was Stone holding off Ward, while Siedler won the battle for 3rd over Smith and Harpole.
During the post race interview, Stone said “I didn’t think we had the car tonight. I turn 40 (years old) next month and I got beat by some young guys at the end of last year. I didn’t feel like getting beat tonight.” Stone showed his experience, and talent, and beat those young guys on Saturday night.
Unofficially crossing the finish line in 6th was George Fronsman, followed by Guy Norton, Anthony Madrid, Jason Noll and Higgins.
The races at Canyon Speedway Park can be heard on a live webcast of racing events all season long. Check out www.CanyonSpeedwayPark.com and click “Webcast” on the navigation menu to hear the action. 602-258-race7223
2009 Stock Car Shootout Champions Decided
Canyon Speedway Park, Peoria, AZ November 23, 2009 – The second annual STOCK CAR SHOOTOUT weekend was a huge success for number 76-Chris McCurdy Jr. as he wrestled the front spot away from Chino Valley’s 41-George Fronsman to take home the five-foot super stock forty lap main event. Canyon ’09 super stock champion 19-Kenny Gill made a late charge to wrap up the second spot with Fronsman finishing third place. 1.)76-Chris McCurdy Jr.; 2.)19-Kenny Gill; 3.)41-George Fronsman; 4.)22-Brian Miller; 5.)48-Tom Poorman; 6.)8-Jim Montgomery; 7.)64x-Jeff Stafford; 8.)13-Buff VanLandingham 9.)0-Mike Brigner; 10.)57-Joe Sargenger
The pure stock division battled it out in caution infested thirty lap main event. SCRA shoe 33x-Jody Henderson led the way and added the Shootout championship to his collection. Second place finisher 40-Jeff Stafford figured out a way through the mess and 41-George Fronsman locked down third. The main event hard charger was Canyon champion 11-Steve Bitting Jr. in borrowed a ride. Bitting finished an impressive fourth place after heading to the pits twice for flat tires. Rounding out the top five saw a Canyon front-runner 47-Daren Olney.
1.)33x-Jody Henderson; 2.)40-Jeff Stafford; 3.)41-George Fronsman; 4.)11-Steve Bitting; 5.)47-Daren Olney; 6.)106-Michael Wrightsman; 7.)11x-Jason Harvil; 8.)06-Marlowe Wrightsman; 9.)88-Scott Krantz; 10.)28-Jim Skaggs
Bomber mania continues their domination at Canyon with an impressive thirty-one racecars. After lapping half of the field, luck would not hold up for 7x-Matt Martinez due to a mechanical issue. 74x-Ron Neis, better known as “Not So” gained the lead in the twenty-five-lap feature and never looked back. Young gun 99-Trenton Setelin placed second while 07-Michael K. chipped off third.
1.)74x Ron Neis; 2.)99-Trenton Setelin; 3.)07-Michael K.; 4.)68v-Joe Vlasity 5.)88-Glenn M. 6.)16B-RichardBennet; 7.)69-Jason Randel; 8.)66-Joe Setelin; 9.)72-John Wilt; 10.)08-Michelle Halfhill
Bitting, Gill and Bray 2009 Champs at Canyon
Peoria, AZ (October 25th) - Chris McCurdy Jr won the battle by winning the Pure Stock main event Saturday night at Canyon Speedway Park but it was Steve Bitting who won the war as he finished second in the main event wrapping up the championship by one point. McCurdy led all the way to do all he could for his championship quest and actually had the point lead at one point when Bitting was running third but the 2009 Pure Stock champ was able to make a pass for second late in the race securing the Canyon championship.
Kenny Gill wrapped up the Super Stock championship finishing back in the pack in the night’s Super Stock main event after being involved in a mid race crash with several cars. Mike Brigner won the main event and Gill was able to limp his crippled car back to the front straight to the appreciation of the crowd to accept his 2009 Super Stock championship.
Mike Bray won the Bomber championship with a third place run in the Bombermania main event while Joe Vlasity took the lead from Trenton Settelin half way through the race and won the last points race for the Bombers. Bray secured the 2009 overall title after winning the early season Bomber championship in April.
The DDCC Dwarf Cars settled their 2009 points race at Canyon and Brian Stehr took the main event win and the championship in front of a packed Canyon grandstand. Rick Godsey wrapped up the DDCC rookie of the year award for 2009.
Modified Madness also took place as the usually rule enforced IMCA Modifieds were able to run without roofs and with an open competition format where anything goes. Eric Center came out on top with a sprint car wing atop the modified and a side board making up the wild looking aerodynamics for his Dirt Modified. Center took the lead in traffic from Terry belcher Jr and went on the $1000 to win payday.
Canyon is dark next weekend but returns to action November 6th and 7th with the Sims Metal Management sponsored Stock Car Shootout. Super Stocks, Pure Stocks and Bombers will qualify on Friday night and run last chance races and main events on Saturday. Check our website at www.canyonspeedwaypark.com for info.
Madrid Sweeps Canyon Late Model Action
Peoria, AZ (August 16th) - Anthony Madrid was the car to beat Saturday night in the SWDRA Super Late Model main event at Canyon Speedway Park. Madrid started outside the front row after a dominating heat race win and went on to take the main event honors over RC Whitwell. A five car pileup midway through the race when Brad Williams car got sideways off turn four sent the 51 of Joey Moriarty pitside and scrambled the running order up front.
Texas Tony Evans took another SW Modlite win as he made a pass with three laps to go after a late race caution. The race was led up until then by Greg Loper. The caution allowed Evans to close the gap and make the pass for his third main event win at CSP.
Brian Stehr took the DDCC Dwarf Car main event by taking the lead early and never looking back. The win was Stehr's third of 2009 at CSP.
The AMMA Non Winged Modified Midgets put on another great wingless show. The main event was led early by Mike Visser but Garrett Guilky made the slide job work taking the win in a spirited battle that saw the 6 car of Nick Auito come from the back after an early race caution and the 61 of Josh Shipley come from the last row to both record top five finishes.
The Canyon Pure Stocks were the last main event to run and Darin Onley took the main event win over Jeff Stafford. Early challengers Steve Bitting and Matt Martinez were eliminated in a late race crash when Bitting’s car got into the mud at the bottom of the track and slid up into the path of Martinez.
Racing resumes next Saturday night at Canyon Speedway Park with the IMCA Modifieds, Super Stocks, Pure Stocks, DDCC Dwarf Cars and Bomber Mania.
Tuesday night August 18th will be “The Latest IV” at FuNuGyz Sports Grill. Come out and join the fun as we celebrate “Modified Madness” with several past champions and current drivers on hand for interviews, autographs and bench racing.
Check out all the latest information at www.canyonspeedwaypark.com
Lonnie Parker Jr. Looking To Double His Pleasure As ’09 Southwest DIRTcar Super Late Model Action Begins Stretch Run
CONCORD, NC – Aug. 4, 2009
Lonnie Parker Jr. has a chance to double his pleasure this season.
Not only is the 33-year-old driver from El Mirage, Ariz., entering the homestretch of the 2009 Southwest Dirt Racing Association (SWDRA) Super Late Model Series schedule sitting in the driver’s seat for a sixth consecutive championship, he’s eyeing a first-ever UMP DIRTcar Racing Southwest Region title as well.
With the SWDRA tour sanctioned this year by DIRTcar Racing, all the series events also offer points toward UMP DIRTcar Racing’s new-for-‘09 Southwest Region (Arizona, New Mexico and West Texas) and national programs. The intriguing twist has added some extra incentive for Arizona full-fender drivers like Parker.
“It’s cool to have something else to race for,” said Parker, who is hoping to grab the lion’s share of the SWDRA points fund as well as the champion’s portion of the $3,100 UMP DIRTcar Southwest Region points payout. “Winning another championship can give you something else to use for marketing and finding sponsors – and it definitely looks good (as another accomplishment) on your hero cards.”
Through nine of 15 scheduled SWDRA events, Parker leads the tour’s points standings by 66 points (622-556) over Brad Williams of Tucson, Ariz. Parker holds a 173-point advantage (691-518) over Williams in the UMP DIRTcar Southwest Region standings, which are determined using a different system that includes bonus points for car count.
The alltime winningest driver in SWDRA competition with 58 victories, Parker has enjoyed a typically solid campaign with his family-owned team. The second-generation racer has four wins, three seconds and a fourth-place finish; his only finish outside the top five was a 15th on March 14 at Manzanita Speedway in Phoenix, Ariz., after he suffered a flat tire and was involved in a tangle.
But Parker heads into the Dairy Queen of Arizona-sponsored tour’s 2009 stretch run, which begins on Sat., Aug. 15, at Canyon Speedway Park in Peoria, Ariz., looking for his first win in over three months. He got off to a red-hot start with four wins in the season’s first five events – including triumphs on March 7, April 4 and May 9 at USA Raceway in Tucson, Ariz., and a memorable score on April 12 in the last dirt Late Model feature ever run at the famed Manzanita oval – but has come up empty in his last four outings.
“We had everything going our way early in the season, but we’ve been just a little off since then,” said Parker, who also earned a feature win off the SWDRA tour on May 2 at the now-closed Hollywood Hills Speedway in San Felipe, N.M. “I can’t complain because I haven’t finished worse than fourth except in the race we got in a crash, but I’m hoping that we can get back on track and finish the season strong with some wins.”
Parker, who won nine times in 12 SWDRA points races last season, has been upstaged by three up-and-coming drivers from the Grand Canyon State in the tour’s four most recent events. Williams swept a two-night Memorial Day Weekend program on May 23-24 at Canyon Speedway Park, and then R.C. Whitwell of Tucson, Ariz., registered his first-ever SWDRA win on June 6 at USA Raceway and Brad Whitfield of Casa Grande, Ariz., captured his first career tour checkered flag on July 18 at Prescott Valley (Ariz.) Raceway.
Williams, 35, pulled off arguably the most dramatic move of the SWDRA season, passing Parker in lapped traffic on the final lap to win the May 23 A-Main at Canyon. He led Parker across the finish line once again the following evening, pushing his SWDRA career win total to three in just a 24-hour span.
Whitwell, a talented 24-year-old who has excelled in the Southwest’s DIRTcar Modified ranks for several seasons, made it clear that he had arrived as a dirt Late Model contender as well when he dominated the June 6 event at USA Raceway. He was never seriously challenged in rolling to an emotional triumph in front of his hometown crowd.
Whitfield’s milestone victory on July 18 at Prescott Valley provided more new blood on the SWDRA win list. A veteran racer who just recently moved into the dirt Late Model division, the tour rookie, who is fifth in the SWDRA and UMP DIRTcar Southwest Region points standings, held off Parker to become the second consecutive first-time winner.
This season’s other SWDRA victor was Anthony Madrid, a 33-year-old from Phoenix who added a checkered flag on March 14 to his 120-plus career wins in various divisions at Manzanita. Madrid, who ranks third in the SWDRA and UMP DIRTcar Southwest Region points standings, made a powerful charge forward from the 10th starting spot to record his second career SWDRA win – both coming at Manzy – driving a Jeff Manka-owned machine.
The emergence of Modified standouts like Whitwell and Madrid as drivers to reckon with in Super Late Model events is one of the prominent storylines of the Southwest’s Late Model scene this season. Parker certainly has taken notice of the racers’ arrivals.
“The new guys who have moved up from the Modifieds are good drivers,” said Parker. “I think they’re helping make the (dirt Late Model) division out here more competitive. I know it makes me try harder.
“I think a lot of people who run Modifieds have started realizing that they can run a Late Model for pretty close to what a Modified costs. If they keep moving up, they’re going to help Late Model racing grow (in the Southwest). It’s all about having plenty of cars (at events).”
SWDRA race director Carl Nemeth, meanwhile, is very pleased with a 2009 season that has produced plenty of momentum thanks to great cooperation among the area’s track promoters, new faces in Victory Lane and a building relationship with DIRTcar Racing.
“The season got off to a little disappointing start with the closing of Manzy (the famed Manzanita Speedway),” said Nemeth, whose tour was scheduled to run five races at the track. “But we had Canyon Speedway Park step up and schedule five events and USA Raceway added two more shows. The two tracks helped us put together a real strong schedule for the racers and fans.
“The season has gone along extremely well,” he continued. “Dairy Queen of Arizona has given us some great support as our title sponsor, and there’s been a lot of stiff competition challenging Lonnie Parker Jr. this year. The new winners have been especially exciting because that helps create excitement and draw more fans to the tracks.”
Nemeth also feels SWDRA’s affiliation with DIRTcar Racing is bringing increased attention and exposure to the Southwest’s dirt Late Model racers.
“Having an opportunity to win a (UMP DIRTcar) regional championship is another avenue for them to get noticed,” said Nemeth. “It helps them get their name in the papers, get more people following them – and with that, more ammunition to help them get sponsors.”
Chris Morgan, who directs DIRTcar Racing’s Western Region operations, sees the Southwest’s dirt Late Model circuit as a key component of the sanctioning body’s continued expansion in the western states.
“Working with the SWDRA is another element in DIRTcar Racing’s goal of bringing dirt Late Model racing to the forefront of the dirt-track racing scene on the West Coast,” said Morgan. “We’re moving ahead with incorporating the Southwest’s dirt Late Model circuit with other DIRTcar Racing properties like the Western Allstars and Northwest I-5 Tour to form a solid block of UMP DIRTcar Super Late Model series running under the same rules and formats.
“The growth potential of dirt Late Model racing in the western states is limitless and the SWDRA is a big part of DIRTcar Racing’s plans for developing bigger events for the racers and fans.”
The SWDRA tour has a half-dozen events remaining this season, beginning with the Aug. 15 show at Canyon Speedway Park. Canyon comes back with a two-day Labor Day Weekend program on Sept. 5-6, and then the series visits Prescott Valley on Sept. 19 and USA Raceway for season-ending events on Oct. 3 and Oct. 31.
“We’re excited about the future,” said Nemeth. “We still have plenty of racing left this year, but we’re already looking at some sponsorship programs for 2010 and we’ve been hearing from racers who are looking to put together Late Models to come race with us.
“We’re getting some strong interest from both the racers and sponsors and that’s a good sign.”
Check out www.canyonspeedwaypark.com for more info relating to the August 15th show. The Labor Day Weekend 2-day finale will see an open practice on Friday September 4th accompanying a complete show each night on Saturday the 5th and Sunday the 6th.
SWDRA Super Late Model Series Points Standings (as of July 18):
1. Lonnie Parker Jr. 622
2. Brad Williams 556
3. Anthony Madrid 504
4. Jeremy Thornton 441
5. Brad Whitfield 440
6. Jamie Throckmorton 407
7. Joey Moriarty 396
8. Keith Noyes 358
9. Randy Carder 350
10. R.C. Whitwell 337
UMP DIRTcar Racing Southwest Region Points Standings (as of July 27):
1. Lonnie Parker Jr. 691
2. Brad Williams 518
3. Anthony Madrid 498
4. Jeremy Thornton 440
5. Brad Whitfield 431
6. Jamie Throckmorton 401
7. R.C. Whitwell 396
8. Joey Moriarty 390
9. Keith Noyes 350
10. Terry Belcher Jr. 301
Happy Birthday America
Canyon Speedway Park will be closed on Saturday July 4th. We will be back in action Saturday night July 11th with the return of the ASCA 360 Non-Winged Sprint Cars, AMRA Midgets, Super Stocks, SW Modlites and the AMMA Non-Wing Modified Midgets.
Special thanks to "Grumpy" for sending us the following:
WHY THE AMERICAN FLAG IS FOLDED 13 TIMES
Have you ever wondered why the Flag of the United States of America is folded 13 times when it is lowered or when it is folded and handed to the next of kin at the burial of a veteran?
Here is the meaning of each of those folds and what it means:
The first fold of our Flag is a symbol of life.
The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life.
The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.
The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance.
The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our Country, in dealing with other countries may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong."
The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our Republic.
The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day.
The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded.
The tenth fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born.
The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit.
The thirteenth fold: When the Flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our Nation's motto, "In God We Trust." After the Flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.
The next time you see a Flag ceremony honoring someone that has served our country, either in the Armed Forces or in our civilian services such as the Police Force or Fire Department, keep in mind all the important reasons behind each and every movement. They have paid the ultimate sacrifice for all of us by honoring our Flag and our Country.
IMCA Modifieds Return to Canyon
Peoria, AZ (June 25th) - Bo Hatfield leads the IMCA Modified drivers back to Canyon Speedway Park Saturday night June 27th. Hatfield has a 24 point lead over second place John Morris Jr and a 26 point lead over third place Tim Ward. Mark Stewart and Ricky Thornton Jr round out the top five in IMCA Modified points heading into Saturday's race.
Pure Stocks will also be in action with multiple main event winner Matt Martinez leading the way in the 2009 points chase. Chris McCurdy, Steve Bitting, Marlowe Wrightsman and Jeff Stafford make up the top five.
IMCA Southern Sport Mod standings show 4 second generation drivers leading a veteran as Garrett Funk leads the way in the standings. Justin Thornton, Cody Center, Taylon Center and veteran Darin Center are the top five in points
SW Modlites and DDCC Dwarf Cars are also on the race night schedule Saturday night.
Racing at Canyon begins at 7:30pm. Spectator gates open at 5pm. Admission is just $15 for adults, $13 for Seniors and Military with Children 12 and under always free. An all access pit pass is available at the pit gate for $30 allowing access to the pits and grandstands through the track's crossover gate.
Canyon Speedway Park will continue with its audio webcasting of their events accessed by a link on the track's website. The webcast begins at 7:15pm with a quick preview of the nights racing activities and then you can listen to all the action from the announcers booth during the event. Saturday's webcast is courtesy of Quick Response Fire Protection and Double D Motorsports.
Fans are also encouraged to bring an fm radio headset to listen to all the action broadcast over our low level fm transmitter to the grandstand area.
Canyon Speedway Park is located just south of the Carefree Highway off 99th Avenue in Peoria, AZ.
For more information contact Canyon Speedway Park at 602-258-RACE (7223) or visit our website at www.canyonspeedwaypark.com.
FuNuGyz Fun at Canyon Speedway Park
Peoria, AZ (June 18th) - Race fans coming out to Canyon Speedway Park this Saturday night June 20th are in for some great racing action and some awesome giveaways as the staff of FuNuGyz Sports Grill brings their brand of fun to the race track. Canyon Speedway Park has done several promotions at FuNuGyz and now it's their turn to come out to the track, enjoy the races with our fans and give away lots of FuNuGyz gear. FuNuGyz plans on handing out shirts, hats, discount food and drink coupons and much more. They plan to end the race night with a keg of beer in the pits after the races for the adults as well as candy for kids and even more giveaways.
The ASCA 360 Sprints are back in action led by Mike Colegrove who has won the last two ASCA races at Canyon Speedway Park. Colegrove has been on top of his game recently but look for Nathan High, Shon Deskins, rookie Zack Sawyers and the rest of the ASCA drivers to try and stop the Colegrove win streak.
The ASCA Sprints will be joined by the AMMA Winged Modified Midgets, DDCC Dwarf Cars, SW Modlites and the IMCA Sport Modifieds.
Racing at Canyon begins at 7:30pm. Spectator gates open at 5pm. Admission is just $15 for adults, $13 for Seniors and Military with Children 12 and under always free. An all access pit pass is available at the pit gate for $30 allowing access to the pits and grandstands through the track's crossover gate.
Canyon Speedway Park will continue with its audio webcasting of their events accessed by a link on the track's website. The webcast begins at 7:15pm with a quick preview of the nights racing activities and then you can listen to all the action from the announcers booth during the event. Saturday's webcast is courtesy of Quick Response Fire Protection and Double D Motorsports.
Fans are also encouraged to bring an fm radio headset to listen to all the action broadcast over our low level fm transmitter to the grandstand area.
Canyon Speedway Park is located just south of the Carefree Highway off 99th Avenue in Peoria, AZ.
For more information contact Canyon Speedway Park at 602-258-RACE (7223) or visit our website at www.canyonspeedwaypark.com.
Crowe Wins Thriller at Canyon
Peoria, AZ (June 13th) - Jason Crowe took the win in one of the most dramatic Bomber races ever run at Canyon Speedway Park. Early season champion Mike Bray led the way until two laps to go when he tried to turn under a lapped car and made contact with the second place car of Joe Vlasity. Bray spun to the infield and at the white flag it was Vlasity leading Crowe into turn one with Crowe getting under Vlasity down the back straight. Down into turn three they went rubbing and banging side by side out of turn four it was Jason Crowe with the win. Crowe crossed the finish line, made contact with another car, got sideways and slammed head on into the front stretch wall erupting in flames and coming to a stop at the entrance to turn one. The crowd held their breath, the fire went out and to the applause of all in attendance Jason Crowe climbed out of the badly damaged racecar and walked to victory lane.
The IMCA Modifieds also had an exciting race with several lead changes and a late race charge that saw Ricky Thornton Jr come up just short of the win as Anthony Madrid held on for the 28 lap Canyon Speedway Park Anniversary victory.
Nineteen Super Stocks were on hand and at the checkered flag it was Rob Colclasure with the main event win. The Super Stocks also had several lead changes in their main event as Kenny Gill and Joe Sarginger took turns at the top spot until Colclasure made the pass for the lead.
Pure Stocks were on hand with another great showing of cars and Matt Martinez took advantage of a front row starting spot and led flag to flag to capture the Pure Stock portion of the Anniversary race.
The AMRA Midgets made their return to Canyon Speedway Park. The Trophy Dash was won by Dennis Carrier. The Midget main event saw early leader Mike Colegrove challenged and passed by RJ Johnson who never looked back going on to win their 20 lap main event.
Full results will be posted at www.canyonspeedwaypark.com.
Racing continues next Saturday night at Canyon Speedway Park with the ASCA 360 Sprint Cars, The DDCC Dwarf Cars, IMCA Sport Modifieds, AMMA Modified Midgets and SW Modlites.
CSP Press Release
Peoria, AZ (June 8th) - Canyon Speedway Park looks to get things rolling again this week with the "LATEST II", this is a gathering at Funuguyz Sports Grill on Tuesday 6-9-09 from 7pm to 9pm. Everyone is welcome to come join the CSP staff, drivers and pit crews for the live audio-cast, great food and refreshments. For more info, check out this link: "The Latest II"
Next up this Wednesday 6-10-09 will see an open practice for all divisions with the practice running from 7pm to 9pm. Come watch racers test-n-tune (practice) for FREE in the front granstand seating area. We expect the AMRA (MIDGET) teams to be in attendance in preparation for the MIDGETS 2009 debut at the desert oval this coming weekend.
Since 1981 race teams started gathering on weekends to race for bragging rights as to who was best short track racer at Canyon. We still see a few veteran racers but it is the second and third generation drivers that are staking their claim as to who is the best now-a-days. Racing in the Lake Pleasant Valley will continue this SATURDAY 6-13-09 as CSP will celebrate the race tracks "28th Anniversary". The Arizona MIDGET Racing Association led by open wheel sensation #51 RJ Johnson (236 pts) will take on the 3/8th mile. Rounding out the top 5 in points are (2) 12jr Nathan High 221pts, (3) 2g Terry Goodwin 200pts, (4) 22az Rick Shuman 200pts & (5) 8 Mike Lapp 170pts. The MIDGETS will start their night off with a trophy dash followed by heat racing and a "28-lap" feature race in honor of the tracks 28 year history.
Also racing on Saturday's Anniversary ticket are the IMCA MODIFIED's, SUPER STOCKS, PURE STOCKS & BOMBERS. These four divisions will not run HEAT races..... Instead the show will consist of unique qualifying races called the "COTTON PICKIN QUALIFIER's" and a percentage of the top CSP point runners in each division will be guaranteed an A-main starting spot. The IMCA Modified division will also run a 28-lap main event and a HOOSIER G60 tire will be required on the right rear.
Racing at Canyon begins at 7:30pm. Spectator gates open at 5pm. Admission is just $15 for adults, $13 for Seniors and Military with Children 12 and under always FREE. Dry camping is always allowed and is also FREE. An all access pit pass is available at the pit gate for $30 allowing access to the pits and grandstands through the track's crossover gate.
Canyon Speedway Park will continue with its audio webcasting of their events accessed by a link on the track's website. The webcast begins at 7:15pm with a quick preview of the nights racing activities and then you can listen to all the action from the announcers booth during the event.
Fans are also encouraged to bring an FM radio headset to listen to all the action broadcast over our low level fm transmitter to the grandstand area.
Canyon Speedway Park is located just south of the Carefree Highway off 99th Avenue in Peoria, AZ.
For more information contact Canyon Speedway Park at 602-258-RACE (7223) or visit our website at www.canyonspeedwaypark.com.
Colegrove Repeats at Canyon
Peoria, AZ (May 30th) - Mighty Mike Colegrove took the lead after a lap twelve miscue by leader Tom Ogle and drove a perfect final fourteen laps to become the first repeat winner of 2009 in the ASCA sprint Cars at Canyon Speedway Park. Shon Deskins had the early lead until he had problems navigating a tricky turn two of the 3/8's mile oval. Ogle held the top spot for a few laps until he too slid off the top of turn two. Colegrove used a precise line around the Peoria track to stay in front and claim main event number two of the 2009 season.
Bernie Smith took the ASCA 360 dash while Tom Ogle and Nathan High won the heat races. RJ Johnson and Jeremy Sherman were both at Canyon and both had engine trouble during the hot lap session forcing them to load up early. The top five at the finish of the twenty five lap main event were Colegrove, Nathan High, Josh Pelkey, Tom Ogle and Shon Deskins.
In the IMCA Southern Sport Mods Taylon Center dominated the main event taking the lead early and never looking back. Runner up Garrett Funk made a late race charge but laps ran out before he could catch Center. Justin Thornton, Lupe Gomez and Ricky Thornton Jr rounded out the top five. Heat races were won by Lupe Gomez and Taylon Center.
The Pure Stock main event winner was once again Matt Martinez. Steve Bitting finished in second on the bumper of the winner while Marlowe Wrightsman, Jim Skaggs and Clifton Maggard rounded out the top five. Chris McCurdy Jr, Steve Bitting and Matt Martinez took the heat race wins.
In AMMA Modified Midget action Jacob Hawkins battled Brandon George for the main event win with Hawkins coming out on top after twenty laps of action. George settled for second with Josh Shipley, Adam Milsap and Dylan Capppello making up the top five. Heats were won by Josh Shipley, Dustin Cormany, Jacob Hawkins and Adam Milsap. The Semi Main saw Josh Center take the win.
Bomber Mania was out in full force with lucky number thirteen Jason Crowe taking the main event win. A wild race that saw youngster Colton Huffman lead most of the way until a late race pass by Crowe gave Huffman the runner up spot. Mike Bray finished third, Jason Randall in fourth and Trenton Setelin took the fifth position. Paul O'Connor had his hood pop up early in the race but continued on with the hood sticking straight up blocking the driver's view to take the sixth position in front of a very appreciative and entertained crowd. Heat races went to Crowe, Huffman and Frank Outlaw.
Canyon Speedwy Park will be back in action in two weeks on June 13th with the running of the Anniversary race featuring the AMRA Midgets, IMCA Modifieds, Super Stocks, Pure Stocks and Bombers.
Tuesday June 9th get ready for "The Latest II" as we get together again at FuNuGyz Sports Grill on West Thunderbird and 83rd Ave in Peoria. Come out and join us for a night of fun from 7pm to 9pm. "The Latest II" is a gathering of Race Fans, Race Cars and Race Drivers with live interviews, giveaways and specials. Check our website www.canyonspeedwaypark.com for details and information.
Pelkey Leads ASCA Sprints Back To Canyon
Peoria, AZ (May 28th) - ASCA Sprint Car point leader Josh Pelkey leads the thundering ASCA non-wing sprint cars back to Canyon Speedway Park Saturday night. Pelkey holds a 23 point lead over veteran Nathan High going into Saturday's races. The four previous races for ASCA in 2009 have seen four different winners with Pelkey, Nathan High, Mike Colegrove and Tom Ogle taking main event wins at the Peoria oval. The top five in ASCA points heading into Saturday night are Pelkey, High, rookie Zack Sawyers, Stevie Sussex and Chuck Buckman.
Other divisions racing Saturday May 30th include the AMMA Winged Modified Midgets, the IMCA Southern Sport Modifieds, Pure Stocks and Bombers.
Sprint car drivers and fans should be aware that that the running order of main events Saturday night will have the Sprints running earlier in the order following the AMMA Modified Midgets and the Sport Modifieds. Pure Stocks and the ever popular Bomber Mania round out the running order.
Racing at Canyon begins at 7:30pm. Spectator gates open at 5pm. Admission is just $15 for adults, $13 for Seniors and Military with Children 12 and under always free. An all access pit pass is available at the pit gate for $30 allowing access to the pits and grandstands through the track's crossover gate.
Canyon Speedway Park will continue with its audio webcasting of their events accessed by a link on the track's website. The webcast begins at 7:15pm with a quick preview of the nights racing activities and then you can listen to all the action from the announcers booth during the event. Saturday's webcast is courtesy of Quick Response Fire Protection and Double D Motorsports.
Fans are also encouraged to bring an fm radio headset to listen to all the action broadcast over our low level fm transmitter to the grandstand area.
Canyon Speedway Park is located just south of the Carefree Highway off 99th Avenue in Peoria, AZ.
For more information contact Canyon Speedway Park at 602-258-RACE (7223) or visit our website at www.canyonspeedwaypark.com.
Williams Doubles Up At Canyon
Peoria, AZ (May 25th) - On a weekend that saw some incredible racing action in all five divisions Brad Williams made the highlight reel starting with a last lap last corner pass of Lonnie Parker Jr to take night one of the SWDRA doubleheader. Williams backed up his performance on Sunday night as he held off a determined Jeremy Thornton to get the his second main event victory of the weekend.
A great crowd saw an emotional win for George Fronsman in the IMCA modified division on Saturday night. Fronsman took the lead early and held on to dedicate his win to his fallen friend and crew member Mike Carron who suddenly passed away two weeks ago.
On Sunday night the Modifieds put on another great race with two wide racing throughout the pack. Ricky Thornton Jr took the main event win holding off several challenges from Jay Foster.
Other winners for the weekend were Bud Grossenbacker Saturday in the SW Modlites while Tony Martin returned to victory in the Modlites on Sunday. A special rookie dash in the Modlites on Saturday went to 14 year old Landon Cling.
Pure Stock action Saturday had a first time winner as Chris McCurdy Jr picked up the main event. Another first time winner in the Pure Stocks on Sunday was Brandon Parker.
The race fans that stayed for the last races both nights were not disappointed as the Canyon Bombers put on two exciting nights of racing. Bomber Mania saw Paul O'Conner finally get to victory lane after several close calls on Saturday and Mike Bray put his Bomber in victory lane on Sunday.
Special thanks go out to Rick Setser who did a great Memorial Day tribute to all our servicemen and woman past and present on Saturday night.
DVD's of both nights are available for a special $20 price for all the weekend's action. Go to www.canyonspeedwaypark.com and click on the Mark Meeks link for contact info.
Next up at Canyon Saturday May 30th will be the ASCA sprints, AMMA Modified Midgets, Pure Stocks, IMCA Sport Mods and Bombers.
Canyon Memorial Weekend Doubleheader
Peoria, AZ (May 20th) - The South West Dirt Racing Association Super Late Models bring their ground pounding action out for a 2-day Memorial Weekend show May 23 & May 24, 2009 at Canyon Speedway Park. Local favorites such as SWDRA champion Lonnie Parker Jr, RC Whitwell, Anthony Madrid, Joey Moriarty and many others are expected to be in attendance.
Running alongside the Late Models are the ever-so-popular IMCA Modifieds. Bo Hatfield sits atop the Canyon IMCA Modified standings but is still looking for his first 2009 regular season victory. The IMCA Modified racers will be shooting for a $1000 winner payout each day.
Each day of the doubleheader will be completely separate races paying a separate purse each night. Other divisions running on this weekend racing blockbuster include the Pure Stocks, Southwest Modlites and the Bomber division.
An open practice for all divisions will be held on Friday May 22, 2009. Gates open at 5pm and practice will start at 7:30pm. Practice costs $10 per car, $10 per pit pass and Front Grandstand seating is Free.
Admission for each race night is $15 for Adults, $13 for Seniors and children 12 & under are always FREE.
To honor our Military on this Memorial Day weekend anyone with a Military ID will be admitted free.
All access pit passes are $30 each day and are available at the back entry gate only. Free Camping is permitted (No hookups). Gates open each race night at 5:00pm with racing getting the green flag at 7:30pm.
Canyon Speedway Park is located just south of the Carefree Highway off 99th Avenue in Peoria.
Check out www.canyonspeedwaypark.com or call 602-258-RACE (7223) for more info.
Three in a Row for Thornton at Canyon
Peoria, AZ (May 16th) - Ricky Thornton Jr made it three main event wins in a row Saturday night at Canyon Speedway Park. Thornton took to the high side of the track and passed early leader Mark Stewart halfway through the race. Tim Ward was the first one to the top of the race track as he was rapidly going to the front until engine failure ended his night. Mark Stewart held on for second with Bo Hatfield, Anthony Madrid and Steve Carter rounding out the top five. Alex Stafford and Ricky Thornton Jr took the heat races.
The Southern Sport Mods were won by 2008 champion James Webster. Cody Center's charge back to the front of the pack after fallng to the rear of the field fell short as time ran out on the second generation driver. The top five behind Webster were Cody Center, Ryan Eaden, Grant Ballard and Shannon Williams. Heats were won by Ryan Eaden and James Webster.
Pure Stock action saw Matt Martinez come out on top after a race long battle with Marlowe Wrightsman. The top five battled throughout the race with Wrightsman finishing second, youngster JC Parmeley third, Anthony Madrid fourth and Scott Gunn fifth. Heats were won by Marlowe Wrightsman, Nick Langer and Steve Bitting with Jim Skaggs taking the B main event.
The Desert Dwarf Car main event was won by Sandy Matthews. Matthews took the lead before the halfway mark and was followed across the finish line by Aaron Jones, Jesse Patterson, Denny Dowty and Pat Hennesey. Heats were won by Heather Hennesey, Pat Hennesey, Jesse Patterson and Steve Davis. Rick Godsey took the B main event.
Joe Vlasity took advantage of lapped traffic on the final turn of the final lap to take the Bomber win from Mike Bray. Bray led most of the race but got pinched behind a lapped car heading for the checkers. The top five were Valsity, Bray, Jason Crowe, Vince Perez and Joe Flewelling. Heats were taken by Vlasity and Matt Martinez.
May 23rd and 24th Canyon Speedway Park welcomes the SWDRA Late Models back to the Peoria oval. IMCA Modifieds, Pure Stocks, SW Modlites and Bombers are also on the race menu for the KDG Memorial weekend special with the IMCA Modifieds racing for $1000 to win each night. Racing each night starts at 7:30pm.
Visit www.canyonspeedwaypark.com or call 602-258-RACE (7223) for more information.