Lake Moc-A-TekRace Results
www.lakemocatekspeedway.com
Lake Moc-A-Tek
Race Results
www.lakemocatekspeedway.com
09/18/06
Moc-A-Tek Knocked Down By Judge; Closed Indefinitely
By BRETT DEYO
LAKEVILLE, PA - Another attempt to restart the Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway season was shot
down last Thursday (May 27) afternoon in Honesdale, Pa.'s Wayne County Court.
President Judge Robert J. Conway denied a request for a partial stay to the temporary
injunction that is preventing the quarter-mile oval from hosting its weekly Saturday night
stock car racing programs.
The injunction was signed by Conway on May 17, citing the run-off of storm water from the
property that "inundates a neighbor's property and pollutes at least one local body
of water."
In layman's terms, Conway's ruling backed up the fact that he did not err in issuing the
injunction in the first place.
The decision obviously disheartened promoter Jane Riddle, who was very emotional Thursday
afternoon.
"It seemed like it was decided before we even started today," said Riddle, in
the midst of her third season at the helm of the facility. "It's so disheartening,
the way the whole thing turned out."
Riddle's attorneys, of Scranton, Pa.'s Wright and Associates, argued that the
injunction will cause "irreparable harm to Ms. Riddle's finances and business
reputation."
Attorney David Gromelski contends that the speedway "met our burden." He
continued, "even if we didn't, putting the speedway out of business isn't the right
fix for this problem."
David Osborne, Vice President/Engineering Manager of Ceco Associates in Clarks Summitt,
Pa., testified on behalf of the track and said the storm water run-off problems would
"definitely" continue regardless of whether the track was in operation.
Osborne also argued that improvements, or "temporary fixes" could be made almost
immediately, but Town Solicitor Ronald Bugaj and his comrade, Paupack Township Board of
Supervisors Chairman Theodore Kostige claim no work can be done at the track without a
permit from the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, which would take 120 days
to obtain.
Essentially, the outcome all but put an end to the season. The track's status at the
moment is listed as "closed indefinitely." Racers and fans should continue to
check the website: www.lakemocatekspeedway.com for updated information in the coming
weeks.
Riddle and her father, Carl "Fuzzy" Van Horn, who lease the track, have several
options to save the facility, one of which includes an appeal in the Harrisburg-based
Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court. That could take anywhere from one to four weeks.
"I haven't decided if that is the route I want to take now," she said.
Also on Thursday, Judge Conway denied the effort by Attorney Richard Yetter, a
358-Modified competitor at the speedway, to intervene as a defendant on behalf of the
drivers and vendors (Fabrications by Tauschman and Ted Schmidt Photography) of Lake
Moc-A-Tek Speedway. Yetter, who is operating on donations from racers, plans to appeal in
Commonwealth Court.
An unexpected twist during the court proceedings was the stance of property owner Anne
Marie Pappas. Apparently, Pappas already made a plan available to the Township that would
grass over the entire speedway property.
Ironically, Pappas's Lake Moc-A-Tek Campground has dodged all storm water regulations. She
sat with Township officials on Thursday.
Obviously, the aforementioned plan would violate Riddle and Van Horn's lease, and
litigation is underway regarding this dispute.
"We know who sold out the racers and fans of this speedway," Riddle said.
"I just want to let everyone know that I haven't given up," she continued.
"I don't want to lose Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway."
Riddle spent her Saturday afternoon at the track, visiting with racers who have campers
nearby and taking some time to reflect.
"It's so sad," she said. "I miss everyone. I miss the drivers, I miss the
fans. It's a shame."
Moc-A-Tek
Silent May 22; Racing Expected To Return May 29
By BRETT DEYO
LAKEVILLE, PA - Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway will be silent this Saturday, May 22, but don't
take that as a death sentence.
In fact, it may mark the turnaround in a week filled with bad news.
On Monday afternoon (May 17), Wayne County President Judge Robert Conway signed an order
that effectively put an end to the 2004 season at the quarter-mile oval. Conway cited
storm water run-off that "inundates a neighbor's property and contaminates at least
one local body of water" as the cause of the decision.
However, after meeting with a new legal counsel today (Wednesday May 19), including an
environmental law specialist, promoter Jane Riddle sees a new hope for the 45-year-old
facility.
"I'm not going away," Riddle said enthusiastically over the phone. "After
the meeting today, I can tell everyone to expect to be back racing by May 29."
Riddle added that a "worst case scenario" would be June 5.
By the end of the week, an appeal is expected to be filed. Riddle and her father, Carl
"Fuzzy" Van Horn plan to take their case to higher courts if necessary.
"What does racing have to do with storm water management?" Riddle asked.
"The water is still going to run whether we are racing at the track or not. The
speedway is not the cause of the water problem and having the track closed is not going to
fix the problem."
Riddle, in her third year of promotion at the facility, wants to reassure the track's
supporters that she is not giving in to the pressure.
"I will not sell out my drivers, owners, employees or fans…I just will not do
that," she said firmly. "We might have lost a battle here but we haven't lost
the war."
In closing, Riddle wished to thank all those who supported the speedway over the past week
through their letters, faxes, e-mails and phone calls. The outpouring of support, in her
opinion, was phenomenal.
"People don't realize how much of a passion racing is," she added. "It is a
love, for people in racing it is their life."
She hopes the current "bump in the road" will not hurt her base of competitors
and fans over the long haul.
"I understand these guys will race this weekend. It's in their blood. I just hope
after this settles down they will all be back at the gate."
LAKE MOC A TEK NEEDS YOUR HELP
Earlier this week, Paupack Township made a concentrated effort with the DEP and Wayne
Conservation to shut down Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway for an issue involving storm water
management.
The track is able to run this weekend (May 15) but it could very well be the last event in
the 45-year history of the facility. Instead of allowing time to correct the problem,
shutting down the track will only put a halt to a Northeast Pennsylvania tradition.
The only hope is to generate support for the track from those of you who enjoy not only
Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway, but dirt track racing in general.
Please, if you could, take some time this weekend to e-mail, call or fax the politicians
involved in the decision making process. We would prefer electronic communication rather
than a standard letter - this needs to happen fast.
They need to know just how much Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway means to us!
The following is the contact info. I will continue to update it as I get more names,
numbers and e-mails.
Keep checking the track's website for further info: www.lakemocatekspeedway.com.
Thank you,
Brett Deyo
Hon. Jerry Birmelin
State Representative District 139 (Wayne, Pike, and Monroe Counties)
Wayne County Visitors Center
303 Commercial Street
Suite 200
Honesdale, PA, 18431
(570) 253-5533
Fax: (570) 253-8046
E-Mail: jbirmeli@pahousegop.com or cmcconeg@pahousegop.com
Court of Common Pleas
22nd Judicial District Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Honorable Robert J. Conway, Presiding
Judges Chambers: (570) 253-5970 ext. 106
Wayne County Commissioners
Anthony V. Herzog
Donald E. Olsommer
Robert V. Carmody
Wayne County Courthouse
925 Court Street
Honesdale PA 18431
Phone: (570) 253-5970
Wayne County Planning Commission
Edward J. Coar, Director
John Zielinski, Assistant Director
Craig Rickard, Senior Planner
Christopher Barrett, Senior Planner
Aaron Kilgo, Planner I
Debbie Varcoe, Planning Technician
925 Court Street
Honesdale, PA 18431
Phone: (570) 253-5970 Ext. 183
Fax: (570) 253-5432
Paupack Township
Theordore Kostig
Secretary: JoAnn Kelley
Lakeville PA 18438
Phone: 570 226 3115 or 570 225-0632
Fax: 570 226 4257
Leiby Gets Needed Morale Boost At Moc-A-Tek
By BRETT DEYO
LAKEVILLE, PA - John Leiby got a much needed morale boost.
After a rough start to the season, the West Milford, N.J., driver considered selling his
equipment and pulling out of the sport.
With some encouragement from his wife Dawn, the veteran returned to Lake Moc-A-Tek
Speedway last Saturday night and raced to a spirit-lifting triumph in the 25-lap
358-Modified feature.
"It feels really good," Leiby remarked. "It hasn't been a good year so far.
If it wasn't for my wife, I probably wouldn't even be here tonight."
Starting from third position, he moved his Simonek Performance-powered 2003 Teo-Pro car
into second on the start, and went to work on polesitter George Hildebrant between turns
one and two.
Almost immediately, the red flag was displayed for a grinding frontstretch incident
involving Scott Frack and Brian Malcolm.
When the race resumed, it took only two laps for Leiby to take over the lead. He raced
door-to-door with Hildebrant exiting turn two, then powered off the bottom in the fourth
turn to grab the top spot for good.
"Before the first lap was scored I knew where I was going to get him," the happy
37-year-old said. "The car was that good."
Ninth starter Gary Griffin charged quickly forward and hounded Hildebrant before making an
inside run for second on lap 12. The 24-year Moc-A-Tek veteran closed on Leiby and made
several bids for the lead, most significantly on lap 17 when he nearly pulled even with
the leader entering turn one.
Griffin kept the pressure on until, with four laps remaining, a flat tire for Hildebrant
necessitated a yellow.
Leiby motored away on the restart for the $1,000 win.
"I just tried to be smooth on the bottom," he said. "My goal was to try and
get away from those guys as quick as possible."
Griffin, of Archbald, Pa., was content with a runner-up effort.
"I would've rather gotten the thousand dollars," the soft-spoken Griffin
related. "The car was good tonight, starting where we did I'm happy with second.
"I might have had a shot at him, but it's all coulda, shoulda, woulda."
Fifteen-year-old Ryan Taylor of Perkasie, Pa., finished a season high third. Defending
champion Ed Strada Jr. took over the point lead with a fourth place effort after starting
13th and Buddy Altemose rounded out the top five.
For the first time in his 10-year driving career, Bill Moyer of Reading, Pa., drove to
victory lane. The 41-year-old outdueled Ted Stout in a side by side race to the checkered
to win the 20-lap Sportsman feature.
Moyer, who picked up a TRC mount over the winter months, inherited the lead on lap 10 when
early pacesetters Mike McCollum and John Leiby Jr. got together in the first turn.
A former regular at Delaware (Del.) International and U.S. 13 (Del.) Speedway, Moyer took
advantage of their misfortune, besting Stout on the high side over the final two laps for
the win.
"This car made a big difference," he said. "And I have to give a lot of
credit to Ted Stout. He raced me clean. He drove into three hard and I drove in twice as
hard."
Thornurst, Pa.'s Stout was second, completing a one-two sweep by the TRC brand of
racecars, built in the Greentown, Pa., Fabrications by Tauschman shop.
Eric Palmer, Rick Raisner and Archie Myers III rounded out the top five.
"The Great Oz" Greg Buchanan of Nazareth, Pa., dominated the 20-lap Street Stock
feature, wheeling the Jack Zeiner-owned No. 8 to his first win of the year. Buchanan took
over the lead on lap two.
Billy Price Jr. came from dead last to finish second, in front of Eddie Kudrako, Carl
Heater and Randy Tyler.
Todd Buskirk of Hecktown, Pa., topped the 15-lap Pure Stock/Four Cylinder feature, leading
the entire distance for the win. Jason Walsh, Bob Cole, Jared Hayes and Ronnie Blake
trailed at the checkered.
Coming from 12th starting position Ralph Utter Jr. of West Milford, N.J., stole the show
from the Hartman brothers to win the 20-lap 250cc Micro-Sprint feature.
Utter first worked by Jay Hartman on lap 16, then set his sights on Jeff Hartman, who
paced much of the feature. With two laps remaining, he drove his No. 19J to the inside and
won the drag race to the stripe.
Jeff Hartman held off his sibling Jay Hartman for the runner-up spot. Kevin Nolf and
Michael Storms rounded out the top five.
NOTABLE: The Sportsman division had its own version of "tire gate" as four cars
were disqualified in post-race inspection. Brad Grim (third), John Bush (fourth), Matt
Kaminiskas (13th) and John Micek (14th) were penalized for having non LMS stamped American
Racers on their cars.
They are the same compound as the McMod tires used at Moc-A-Tek, but purchasing them from
other sources, according to promoter Jane Riddle, hurts the point fund. As a result, the
rule was enforced….
Two hard 358-Modified crashes marred the night.
In the second qualifier, a three-wide scramble for the lead involving Bernie Kelly, Tom
Gervasi and Troy Weisenfluh resulted in Weisenfluh impacting the turn three light pole at
full speed. The light pole bent significantly and the three bulbs broke out of their
sockets as Weisenfluh reached a dead stop.
Gervasi was black flagged for his involvement but later started the feature. Weisenfluh
started the main in a car borrowed from Sportsman regular Chad Hadlick, who retrieved the
mount from his Matamoras, Pa., shop.
The second incident occurred on the first lap of the feature when contact from behind sent
Scott Frack spinning on the frontstretch. He sat facing traffic just past the starter's
stand where he was lambasted by Brian Malcolm, who had committed to the outside
line….
Feeling that it was in fact John Leiby Jr. who spun him from the lead in the Sportsman
feature, Mike McCollum fired up his No. 2 and drove over Leiby's front-end during the
caution period, flattening his adversary's right front tire.
McCollum was disqualified for the night, while Leiby relinquished the lead to change the
tire….
The predicted rain and lightning moved in just as the night's final checkered flew….
Racing resumes at the Thrill Track on May 15 with a full five-division program of
358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Street Stocks, Pure Stock/Four Cylinders and 250cc
Micro-Sprints, plus Mechanics Races. Gates open at 3 p.m. with hot laps at 5 p.m. and
racing promptly at 6 p.m.
A Sunday rain date is in place with gates opening at 1 p.m., hot laps at 3 p.m. and racing
at 4 p.m. For more information, contact the speedway office at (570) 676-8665 or check out
the website: www.lakemocatekspeedway.com. The race day phone is (570) 226-5602.
358-Modified Feature Finish: JOHN LEIBY, Gary Griffin, Ryan Taylor, Ed Strada Jr., Buddy
Altemose, Allan Kellogg, Tom Oleski, Ricky Yetter, Jesse Kline, Dom Roselli, Barry White,
Brian Cobb, Bernie Kelly, Greg Morgan, Troy Weisenfluh, Tom Gervasi, George Hildebrant,
Carl Pittenger, Tom Solderich, Keith Nonnemacher, Scott Frack, Brian Malcolm.
Sportsman Feature Finish: BILL MOYER, Ted Stout, Eric Palmer, Rick Raisner, Archie Myers
III, Greg Morgan, Chris Riddle, Don Hildebrant, Scott Merritt, Rick Beavers, John Leiby
Jr., Andy Stout, Ricky Rutt, Mike Van Tassel, Kevin Heafy, Keith Fleming, Kyle Pickering.
Disqualified (Retaliation): Mike McCollum.
Disqualified: (Tire Infraction): Brad Grim, John Bush, John Micek, Matt Kaminiskas.
Did Not Qualify: Peach Cole, Ron Hartrum, Mike Mondak, Daryle Cole, Bob Grasic, Steve
Ramsey.
Street Stock Feature Finish: GREG BUCHANAN, Billy Price Jr., Eddie Kudrako, Carl Heater,
Randy Tyler, Nick Petrilak, Neil DiBlasi, Brian Petrilak, Clark Bradford, Dave Luff, Paul
Tannura, Bill Saxe, Keith Villano, Les Gillette, Tom Cilurso, Adam Jones, Kevin Mandic,
Jim Sykes, Tony Ferri.
Pure Stock Feature Finish: TODD BUSKIRK, Jason Walsh, Bob Cole, Jared Hayes, Ron Blake,
Bobby Melovitz, Frank Bush, John Richards, Randy Richards, Al Metzgar, Serafino Raggi, Ted
Mills Jr.
250cc Micro-Sprint Feature Finish: RALPH UTTER JR., Jeff Hartman, Jay Hartman, Kevin Nolf,
Michael Storms, Matt Mountz, Joe Buchanan, Ken Wismer Jr., Frank Venezia, Marty Reinsmith,
Patrick Milikowski, Jay Sisco, Stephanie Stevens, Tim Manieri, Greg Stevens, Angela
Caruso, Darrell Cobb, Joe Smith, Mike Rasley, Scott Dech.
Memorial Day Classic Twin 20's On Tap At Moc-A-Tek
By BRETT DEYO
LAKEVILLE, PA - In Indiana, there is the Indianapolis 500. In North Carolina, there is the
Coca-Cola 600.
On Memorial Day weekend in Pennsylvania, there are 358-Modified Twin 20's at Lake
Moc-A-Tek Speedway.
Again this year, the quarter-mile oval will host a huge Memorial Day Classic program on
May 29, headlined by a twin bill for the ground-pounding small-block Modifieds, annually
one of the most popular events at the historic facility.
Two action-packed 358-Modified 20-lappers will lead off a busy card that also includes the
Sportsman, Street Stocks, Pure Stock/Four Cylinders and the ever-popular 250cc
Micro-Sprints.
"The fans really like the Twin 20's," commented race director Jane Riddle, who
operates the speedway with her father Carl "Fuzzy" Van Horn. "It gives them
something special for Memorial Day weekend."
Those in attendance can expect to see all the stars of the Thrill Track in action twice in
one night, including defending champion Ed Strada Jr., Dom Roselli, Gary Griffin, Allan
Kellogg, Brian Malcolm, sophomores Buddy Altemose and Ryan Taylor, Troy Weisenfuh, John
Leiby, Scott Frack, Barry White, Joe Eisenhauer, Ricky Yetter, Tom Oleski, George
Hildebrant, Carl Pittenger and a host of others.
In 2003, Joey Grammes and Kellogg split the main events, which were postponed to Sunday
due to inclement weather on Saturday night.
Aside from having "double the excitement" in two features, the shorter distances
provide no holds barred action as drivers starting from the rear try to make their way to
the front.
To add another twist, the winner of the first event will draw a number signifying the
positions inverted for the nightcap.
Gates open at 3 p.m. with hot laps at 5 p.m. and racing at 6 p.m. The Sunday rain date
will be in effect, with gates opening at 1 p.m., hot laps at 3 p.m. and racing at 4 p.m.
The Sportsman, Street Stocks and Pure Stock/Four Cylinders will each partake in their own
"Twin" programs later in the year. The Sportsman will compete in Twin 20's on
June 26, the Street Stocks will participate in Twin 15's on July 24 and the Pure
Stock/Four Cylinders will run in Twin 12's on June 12.
For more information on Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway, contact the speedway office at (570)
676-8665 or check out the website: www.lakemocatekspeedway.com.
The race day phone is (570) 226-5602.
Strada Wins War At Moc-A-Tek; Bests Kellogg For 358-Mod Win
By BRETT DEYO
LAKEVILLE, PA - It wasn't pretty, but Ed Strada Jr. got the job done.
Overcoming a 13th starting position and a slam-bang battle with Allan Kellogg late in the
going, the South Canaan, Pa., talent picked up the 358-Modified win last Saturday night at
Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway.
A determined drive in the final circuits of the 25-lap affair catapulted the defending
champion to the $1,000 triumph.
"I thought I was going to have to settle for fourth after starting so far back,"
a visibly enthused Strada remarked. "I actually surprised myself at the end
there."
By luck of the draw, opening night winner Allan Kellogg started on the outside pole and
scooted into the lead on the start. After a disastrous second lap that included a pair of
multi-car incidents, the Mt. Cobb, Pa., chauffeur checked out on the field, opening up
nearly a straightaway advantage.
A long stretch of green flag racing allowed Kellogg to catch the tail end of the field by
lap 10. Kellogg was mired in a large pack of lapped traffic when, on lap 17, a spin by
Keith Nonnemacher necessitated a caution.
That gave Strada, who had climbed to fourth, the break he needed. Heading into the first
turn, he moved by third-running Buddy Altemose, then muscled past Tommy Hager for the
runner-up spot in turn four.
"This thing fires on restarts," the 39-year-old said of his Wally Fiehl-powered
Bicknell. "I timed it right on the start and got them both right away. That worked
out - they (Hager and Altemose) both were pretty fast."
Strada caught Kellogg on lap 20 and that's when it got interesting.
Entering turn one, he dove hard to the inside. The duo made heavy contact, sending
Kellogg's No. 99 momentarily skyward and handing Strada the lead.
"I caught the rut in one and bounced up into him the first time I got by,"
Strada admitted. "I think I caught him by surprise when I got under him."
Exiting turn four, Kellogg got into Strada's left quarter panel, turning his No. 42 almost
completely sideways on the frontstretch. That gave the top spot back to Kellogg, but
Strada wasn't backing down.
"He was mad more than anything when I passed him," Strada analyzed.
"He was running down across the track every lap, so the bottom was open. We got
together in one, then he had me pretty sideways out of four. It was close to going around
on me; I was waiting for two or three guys to go by both of us."
With two laps remaining, the crafty veteran put his Goldleaf Financial mount to the inside
of Kellogg in turn one. Again they banged together, sending Kellogg up the track.
This time, the move stuck and Strada went on to record his first win of the season.
How did he pull off the final maneuver?
"He slid up a little," Strada said with a smile. "And I moved him up some
more."
After a dominant start, Kellogg was forced to settle for a second place finish.
"Lapped traffic really did us in," said Kellogg, whose Bicknell car sustained a
pair of bent radius rods while running with the slower cars.
"I got together with somebody, I think it may have been the 3 car (Ricky Yetter) on
the backstretch. After that I was really tight."
As for the battle with Strada, he attributed it to hard racing.
"He gave me the iron and I gave it right back," he said. "In one and two,
he got into me pretty good, so I returned the favor coming out of four. That was just
racing."
Buddy Altemose of Pocono Pines, Pa., rallied to a third place finish, besting a returning
Tommy Hager and Brian Malcolm.
In just his second career Sportsman start, Cresco, Pa.'s Eric Palmer topped the
time-shortened 13-lap feature.
The 250cc Micro-Sprint graduate, piloting a Dave Van Horn-powered Bicknell, outdistanced
multi-time champion Joey Grammes to record the win, one week after finishing third in his
debut.
"Who would believe it?" the 30-year-old exclaimed. "When I was a kid, I sat
in the stands at Nazareth (Pa.) every week and dreamed of racing a Modified someday. This
is just overwhelming."
Grammes, of Kunkletown, Pa., charged from 16th to finish second, ahead of Don Hildebrant,
Ricky Rutt and Mike Mondak.
With three drivers vying for the lead on the final lap, Nick Petrilak of Greenfield
Township, Pa., bested Bill Trego by a half car-length to win the 20-lap Street Stock
feature.
Heading down the backstretch, Trego looked to the inside, while Dan Pompey tried the
outside of Petrilak. Pompey slid high entering turn three, leaving it to Petrilak and
Trego. Petrilak, the defending champion, held Trego to the extreme inside and narrowly won
the drag race to the stripe.
Pompey, Dave Luff and Adam Jones rounded out the top five.
Joe Smith pulled off a lap seven pass of Frank Venezia, then fought off the late-race
advances of Jay Hartman to win the 20-lap 250cc Micro-Sprint main. For Smith, it was his
second trip to victory lane of the season. He was also victorious in the heldover feature
contested on April 10.
Hartman, Ralph Utter Jr., Kevin Nolf and Tim Manieri trailed at the finish.
In the regularly scheduled 15-lap Pure Stock/Four Cylinder feature, Todd Buskirk of
Hecktown, Pa., took the win over Mike Spinks, Frank Bush, Mike Toothman and John Richards.
Jason Walsh of Oxford, N.J., bested brother Jon Walsh to win the curfew-postponed 15-lap
Pure Stock/Four Cylinder feature from April 17. Frank Bush, Ted Mills Jr. and Bobby
Melovitz rounded out the top five.
The massive field of 124 cars forced the use of the infield for pit parking.
Racing resumes at the Thrill Track on May 1 with a full show of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman,
Street Stocks, Pure Stock/Four Cylinders and 250cc Micro-Sprints plus Powder Puff Races.
Gates open at 3 p.m. with hot laps at 5 p.m. and racing promptly at 6 p.m.
For more information, contact the track office at (570) 676-8665 or check out the website:
www.lakemocatekspeedway.com. The race day
phone is (570) 226-5602.
NOTABLE: With the Friday night cancellation of Accord (N.Y.) Speedway, invaders Jeff
Hulseapple (Sportsman), Jeremy Markle and Scott Ferrier (358-Mod) joined the fray. Markle,
ironically, tangled with Joey Grammes in the third heat race, sending Grammes into the
turn three yuke tire.
The incident occurred one week after the pair clashed at Accord in the opener….
Grammes said his car's damage was mostly cosmetic: a crushed inner hoop, muffler and door
resulted from the impact…
Dom Roselli relinquished a qualifying spot in the third heat race when the torsion arm
slipped off the roller on his No. 80. He was forced to take a provisional to get in the
field and climbed to ninth at the finish….
Tom Solderich survived a scary moment in the second qualifier. The drive shaft broke in
his No. 28s small-block and took out the battery….
Following a second lap tangle in the 358-Mod main, John Leiby's team made quick repairs to
their Teo-Pro car, rejoining the field with a single radius rod on the right front…
Mike Mammana, the 22-year-old nephew of 358-Modified journeyman Tom Hager, made his
Sporstman debut. Mammana, a WKA Go-Kart champion from Nazareth, Pa., was only at LMS for a
visit; he will join the Rookie Sportsman ranks at Bridgeport (N.J.) Speedway on May
1…
358-Modified Feature Finish: ED STRADA JR., Allan Kellogg, Buddy Altemose, Tom Hager,
Brian Malcolm, Tom Oleski, Barry White, Bryant Brown, Dom Roselli, Gary Griffin, Joey
Grammes, Carl Pittenger, Troy Weisenfluh, Scott Frack, John Leiby, Joe Eisenhauer, Jesse
Kline, Keith Nonnemacher, Ricky Yetter, Jeremy Markle, George Hildebrant, Ryan Taylor.
Did Not Qualify: Brian Cobb, Tom Gervasi, Kevin Nolf, Tom Solderich, Scott Ferrier, Bernie
Kelly, Joe Uliana.
Sportsman Feature Finish: ERIC PALMER, Joey Grammes, Don Hildebrant, Ricky Rutt, Mike
Mondak, Rick Raisner, Bill Moyer, Brad Grim, John Bush, John Micek, Ted Stout, Archie
Myers III, Ryan Olsommer, John Leiby Jr., Chris Riddle, Greg Morgan, Archie Myers IV, Mike
McCollum, Tommy Laner, Keith Fleming, Rick Beavers, Andy Stout.
Did Not Qualify: Jeff Hulseapple, Kevin Heafy, Bob Grasic, Mike Van Tassel, Matt
Kaminskas, Kyle Pickering, Chad Hadlick, Mike Mammana, Scott Merritt, Willard Knecht.
Street Stock Feature Finish: NICK PETRILAK, Bill Trego, Dan Pompey, Dave Luff, Adam Jones,
Clark Bradford, Neil DiBlasi, Greg Buchanan, Ken Taugher, Bill Saxe, Jim Sykes, Randy
Tyler, Brian Petrilak, Tony Ferri, Les Gillette, Paul Tannura, Billy Price Jr., Tom
Cilurso, Carl Heater, Jimmy Hughes Jr.
Did Not Start: Keith Villano, Eric Moon, Kevin Mandic.
Pure Stock/Four Cylinder Feature Finish: TODD BUSKIRK, Mike Spinks, Frank Bush, Mike
Toothman, John Richards, Jay Martin, Jon Walsh, Randy Richards, Ron Blake, Jay Smith, Kyle
Moon, Serafino Raggi, Allen Metzgar, Bobby Melovitz, Gary Druhl.
Did Not Start: Jason Walsh, Ted Mills Jr.
Pure Stock/Four Cylinder Heldover Feature Finish: JASON WALSH, Jon Walsh, Frank Bush, Ted
Mills Jr., Bobby Melovitz, Mike Toothman, Randy Richards, Allen Metzgar, John Richards,
Todd Buskirk, Serafino Raggi.
Did Not Start: Kyle Moon, Alan Wheeler.
250cc Micro-Sprint Feature Finish: JOE SMITH, Jay Hartman, Ralph Utter Jr., Kevin Nolf,
Tim Manieri, Frank Venezia, Lex Burritt, Matt Mountz, Patrick Milikowski, Stephanie
Stevens, Scott Dech, Jay Sisco, Darrell Cobb, Chris Weiss, Joe Buchanan, Angela Caruso,
Michael Storms, Jeff Hartman, Greg Stevens, Nicole Morgillo.
Did Not Qualify: Derek Ramstrom, Ken Wismer Jr., Marty Reinsmith.
Kellogg's Moc-A-Tek Opening Night A Success This Year
By BRETT DEYO
LAKEVILLE, PA - Allan Kellogg has never been a fan of opening night.
That is, until now.
The Mt. Cobb, Pa., driver kicked off the 2004 Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway season with a
victory last Saturday night, topping a competitive 25-lap 358-Modified feature. The $1,000
triumph marked his first ever checkered in a season lid-lifter at the historic
quarter-mile oval.
"This is by far the best opening night we've had," Kellogg revealed. "We've
been lucky to even finish them in the past. It's a good way to start the season."
In the early laps, it appeared that fourth-starter Kellogg would take a back seat to
three-time track champion Gary Griffin. In his first ride aboard a 2004 Bicknell mount,
the Archbald, Pa., veteran powered into the lead from the outside pole and opened up an
advantage on the field.
On lap 4, second running Tom Oleski spun in turn two. That handed the runner-up position
over to Kellogg.
Using the outside line to his advantage, however, Griffin readily motored away from
Kellogg on three separate restarts (laps 4, 5 and 6).
"I honestly didn't think I had anything for Gary," the 36-year-old said. "I
was getting killed on the restarts."
The caution periods did provide Kellogg with an opportunity. While circling the track
slowly, he discovered a tacky patch on the inside of turn four.
"I was searching around for bite," he said. "I saw it was still wet on the
inside of turn four. I kept that in the back of my mind."
Using his acquired knowledge, Kellogg set his sights on Griffin when the race went green,
building momentum in the outside lane with his KFC No. 99. He caught Griffin on lap 9
heading down the backstretch, powered to the bottom in turns three and four and executed a
classic slide job to lead at the stripe for lap 10.
"I was running around the top reeling Gary in," Kellogg said. "When I got
to him I dove to the bottom, got a good run and slid up in front of him."
From that point on it was clear sailing for Kellogg, who motored away in his Belfast
Automotive-powered Bicknell.
Griffin's 24th consecutive season of Moc-A-Tek competition began with a fine second place
effort.
"It was fast," Griffin said of his new equipment. "It was a combination of
the tires (Griffin used the softer SD 33 compound), some engine work by my brother Bernie
and the new car.
"Once Allan got by me, I could stay with him, but that was it."
Joey Grammes of Kunkletown, Pa., raced from 10th to finish third. Brian Malcolm, returning
after a year at Orange County (N.Y.) Fair Speedway, was a strong fourth and Dom Roselli
completed the front five.
Consolation winner Carl Pittenger raced from 16th to sixth at the checkered.
In a dominant performance, Rick Raisner of Easton, Pa., led wire-to-wire in the 20-lap
Sportsman feature.
Raisner, piloting a 1997 Pauch-Tobias car, started second and got the initial jump on
polesitter Rick Beavers with his Express-Times No. R14.
His biggest challenge came in the form of Keith Fleming on a lap 11 restart. The Milford,
N.J. chauffeur made a bold inside run on Raisner exiting turn two. Raisner threw the block
on the backstretch, shutting the door on Fleming, who was forced to roll out of the
throttle.
That was the final threat to Raisner's lead, as the popular New Egypt (N.J.) Speedway
convert scored the $500 victory.
Fleming finished a solid second, just ahead of 250cc Micro-Sprint graduate Eric Palmer,
who grabbed a third place finish in his first ever Sportsman start. Joey Grammes rebounded
from a lap 6 penalty to finish fourth and Greg Morgan rounded out the top five.
After several years away from racing, 1990 champion Bill Trego returned in grand style,
winning the 20-lap Street Stock feature. The Gouldsboro, Pa., veteran grabbed the lead in
lapped traffic on lap 5, then fought off the late race advances of Brian Petrilak for the
win.
Brian Petrilak, Les Gillette, Nick Petrilak and newcomer Paul Tannura rounded out the top
five.
Ralph Utter Jr. led the entire distance to win the 20-lap 250cc Micro-Sprint headliner.
The perennial frontrunner from West Milford, N.J., won his heat race, started on the front
row and checked out on the field in his No. 19J.
Joe Smith, who scored a win in the April 10 heldover main, finished second, ahead of Jay
Hartman, Kevin Nolf and Mike Pychinka.
Unfortunately, opening night track prep took longer than expected and the Pure Stock/Four
Cylinder feature fell to the curfew. It will be made up at the beginning of the April 24
program. Frank Bush and Jason Walsh split the heat races.
A total of 111 cars competed in the season opener.
Racing resumes at the Thrill Track on April 24 with a full five division card of
358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Street Stocks, Pure Stock/Four Cylinders and 250cc
Micro-Sprints. Gates open at 3 p.m. with hot laps at 5 p.m. and racing at 6 p.m. A Sunday
rain date is in place with gates opening at 1 p.m., hot laps at 3 p.m. and racing promptly
at 4 p.m.
For more information, contact the speedway office at (570) 676-8665 or check out the
website: www.lakemocatekspeedway.com. The race day phone is (570) 226-5602.
NOTABLE: Defending 358-Modified champion Ed Strada Jr. struggled through a rough
lid-lifter.
After a heat race spin forced him to start the main 11th, he got collected in a lap 4
incident that flattened his right front tire and bent the wheel around the brake caliper.
Only a spin on the restart (and the ensuing caution) allowed Strada to rejoin the field on
the lead lap.
His next run-in occurred on lap 6 when five cars tangled in turn three. In an attempt to
miss the melee, he made significant contact with the infield marker tire. Despite a bent
front axle, Strada rebounded for eighth…
Brian Malcolm swept the final two races of the 2002 season. He didn't make another start
at Moc-A-Tek until Saturday night, when he returned with his No. 119. "My car owners
wanted me to come back," he explained. "We decided to come here where we can
make a little money."
The Lake Ariel, Pa., driver also plans to compete at Afton (N.Y.) Speedway on Friday
evenings with his 2002 Bicknell car…
With the updated tire rule, tire compound choice was a hot topic in the pit area. A mix of
compounds, ranging from SD 33 to SD 48, was in use for the features. Race winner Kellogg's
SD 44 rubber showed little or no wear…
Chris Grbac, a Thunder Mountain (N.Y.) Speedway regular, was a late entry to the field. He
qualified through the consolation and finished 15th…
Keith Nonnemacher's 358-Mod debut was short-lived. Feeling he was significantly down on
power, he retired to the pits early in the main. "It was just lazy," he said.
"So I'll make an intake change and come back next week."…
John Leiby picked up a last minute Sportsman ride from John Gray, who couldn't drive his
own No. 70 due to a pinched nerve in his neck…
358-Modified Feature Finish: ALLAN KELLOGG, Gary Griffin, Joey Grammes, Brian Malcolm, Dom
Roselli, Carl Pittenger, Jesse Kline, Ed Strada Jr., Ryan Taylor, John Leiby, Tom Oleski,
Ricky Yetter, Buddy Altemose, Tom Gervasi, Chris Grbac, Scott Frack, Tom Solderich, Bryant
Brown, Joe Eisenhauer, Barry White, Troy Weisenfluh, Keith Nonnemacher.
Did Not Qualify: Bernie Kelly, Greg Morgan, Kevin Nolf.
Sportsman Feature Finish: RICK RAISNER, Keith Fleming, Eric Palmer, Joey Grammes, Greg
Morgan, John Bush, Tommy Laner, Rick Beavers, Mike Van Tassel, Ted Stout, Ryan Olsommer,
John Micek, John Leiby, John Leiby Jr., Brad Grim, Archie Myers IV, Chris Riddle, Mike
McCollum, Mike Mondak, Bill Moyer, Ricky Rutt, Archie Myers III.
Did Not Qualify: Gene Walsh, Don Hildebrant, Andy Stout, Matt Kaminiskas, Chad Hadlick.
Street Stock Feature Finish: BILL TREGO, Brian Petrilak, Les Gillette, Nick Petrilak, Paul
Tannura, Neil DiBlasi, Bill Saxe, Tony Ferri, Jay Smith, Dan Pompey, Greg Buchanan, Randy
Tyler, Clark Bradford, Keith Villano, Billy Price Jr., Eric Moon, Jimmy Sykes.
250cc Micro-Sprint Feature Finish: RALPH UTTER JR., Joe Smith, Jay Hartman, Kevin Nolf,
Mike Pychinka, Mike Rasley, Stephanie Stevens, Matt Mountz, Nicole Morgillo, Lex Burritt,
Greg Stevens, Mike Storms, Derek Ramstrom, Jared Schall, Frank Venezia, Tim Manieri, Ken
Wismer Jr., Darrell Cobb, Joe Buchanan, Martin Reinsmith.
Did Not Qualify: Jay Horvath, Sam Christie, Angela Caruso, Jeff Hartman, Patrick
Milikowski, Jeff Schall, Chris Oraschin.
Altemose Scores Big In Moc-A-Tek "Bunny 20"
By BRETT DEYO
LAKEVILLE, PA - Buddy Altemose took a quick liking to his new equipment.
In his first ride aboard a recently-acquired Bicknell mount, Altemose roared to victory in
last Saturday night's "Bunny 20" Sportsman feature at Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway.
The rain postponed 20-lap event from Sept. 14, 2003 served as an unofficial kickoff to the
2004 season, capping off a huge Easter Eve program that also included an open practice
session.
For Altemose, who picked up the 2002 Bicknell from Kevin Bates over the winter months, it
was a much-needed return to victory lane. His last checkered came almost two years ago at
LMS.
"I like this car," the Pocono Pines, Pa., driver commented. "It's a lot
different than the other one. It has a lot more grip. That helps here."
Altemose, a 358-Modified regular, bolted a two-barrel carburetor on his Jeff Murray
powerplant for the Sportsman show, but admits the win will act as a major confidence
booster for this year's small-block efforts.
"I think it will be big; it'll definitely give us some positive momentum."
Altemose, who drew the pole for the event some seven months earlier, led the field through
a rocky first few laps that included many jingles as the field jockeyed for position
behind him.
By lap 4, tenth starter John Leiby powered into the runner-up spot and remained within
striking distance. Leiby, who happens to be a close friend of Altemose, made several
restart bids for the lead, but the 34-year-old asphalt convert kept his Jennifer's Beauty
Salon No. 03 firmly in front.
"I was happy it was John back there for most of the race," Altemose remarked.
"He pulled up next to me under caution, but I already saw his number on the board. I
knew he would race me clean.
"If he was going to get around me, he was going to have to do it up high."
Following a lap 15 caution, Leiby was poised to make a move. Building momentum on the
outside line, he nearly pulled even with Altemose in turn 4 with three laps remaining but
clipped the leader's right rear tire.
The slight contact was enough to strip the steering in Leiby's machine, and the West
Milford, N.J., chauffeur spun to the infield.
The incident handed the runner-up spot to Tom Gervasi, but he could do little with
Altemose, who motored away for the popular win.
Gervasi, of Madison Township, Pa., was content with a second place effort.
"The car was good," he said. "But the tires killed us. We decided to run
old tires (left over from 2003) when we should have put the new ones on. That might have
given us a little more grip."
Bernie Kelly finished a fine third, just in front of Ryan Olsommer, who raced patiently
from 12th to fourth in his new Bicknell. John Leiby Jr. rounded out the top five.
In Street Stock action, Glenwood, Pa.'s Dan Pompey scored a wire-to-wire win in the
20-lapper. Pompey, a Penn-Can (Pa.) Speedway regular, survived a mid-race challenge from
Greg Buchanan, then a final run by Billy Price Jr. to pick up his second consecutive
victory, dating back to the final event of 2003.
Price finished second, ahead of Les Gillette, Nick Petrilak and Buchanan.
Joe Smith scored a dominant victory in the 250cc Micro-Sprint feature, pulling away from
defending champion Ed Krupa in the 20-lapper. The only challenge for Smith was late-race
lapped traffic, which he negotiated flawlessly in his Rainbow Roofing No. 92.
Krupa, of Nazareth, Pa., settled for second. Jay Hartman, Jeff Hartman and Kevin Nolf
rounded out the top five.
Todd Buskirk of Hecktown, Pa., dusted off his trusty Camaro, changed the oil and drove it
straight to victory lane in the Pure Stock/Four Cylinder feature, leading the entire
15-lap distance.
Jason Walsh, Serafino Raggi, Frank Bush and Ron Thoman trailed.
Only those who were on hand to qualify through the heat races last year were eligible for
the heldover features.
During the afternoon hours, a total of 107 competitors from each of the five weekly
divisions packed the pit area to shake down their equipment prior to the April 17
season-opener.
The session provided a glimpse of some of the returning veterans and newcomers who will
frequent the quarter-mile Thrill Track in 2004.
The season officially gets underway on Saturday April 17, with the kick-off of the point
battles for the 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Street Stocks, Pure Stock/Four Cylinders and
250cc Micro-Sprints. Gates open at 3 p.m. with hot laps at 5 p.m. and racing promptly at 6
p.m.
In the event of rain, a Sunday rain date will be used. Gates open at 1 p.m. with hot laps
at 3 p.m. and racing at 4 p.m.
For more information, contact the track office at (570) 676-8665 or check out the website:
www.lakemocatekspeedway.com. The race day phone is (570) 226-5602.
NOTABLE: Turning some of the day's quicker laps in the 358-Modified division was Scott
Frack, behind the wheel of a former Matt Quinn Teo-Pro car for the first time. Frack, 24,
battled brake problems for much of the session, but was thrilled with the performance of
his Andy Jensen-powered ride…
It wasn't a good day for Tom Hager. The 54-year-old West Easton, Pa., veteran flipped his
No. 43 in practice due to a stuck throttle, only to bust a rear suspension while running
third in the heldover feature on lap 15…
Allan Kellogg's first ride with a new powerplant left the Mt. Cobb, Pa., driver chomping
at the bit for the year's first race. Kellogg said the new piece, assembled by Belfast
Automotive with a Ron Clark carburetor, gives him power "right where I want
it."…
Rick Raisner, one of the pre-season favorites for the Sportsman title, suffered through a
pair of setbacks in the 20-lapper. He pitted for a flat right rear tire on lap 5, then got
turned around in a lap 15, turn one jingle. He finished eighth…
In his first race aboard a Jim Quackenbush-owned TRC car, Lakeville, Pa.'s own Greg Morgan
charged from 20th starting position to sixth in the first half of the "Bunny 20"
before a broken heim end curtailed his evening on lap 6…
Opening some eyes in the open practice session was 358-Mod newcomer Bryant Brown, who
piloted a former Jerry Higbie Teo-Pro car. Brown said he will run as a LMS regular in
2004…
Greg Hertzog's return as the track announcer was well-received. Hertzog used music and
sound effects to compliment his efforts…
"Bunny 20" Sportsman Feature Finish: BUDDY ALTEMOSE, Tom Gervasi, Bernie Kelly,
Ryan Olsommer, John Leiby Jr., Mike Van Tassel, Chad Hadlick, Rick Raisner, Gene Walsh,
Archie Myers IV, Jimmy House, John Leiby, Tom Hager, John Gray, Matt Kaminiskas, Ricky
Yetter, Greg Morgan, Brad Grim.
DQ: Tom Solderich.
Street Stock Feature Finish: DAN POMPEY, Billy Price Jr., Les Gillette, Nick Petrilak,
Greg Buchanan, Tony Ferri.
250cc Micro-Sprint Feature Finish: JOE SMITH, Ed Krupa, Jay Hartman, Jeff Hartman, Kevin
Nolf, Matt Mountz, Joe Buchanan, Mike Rasley.
Did Not Start: Greg Stevens, Stephanie Stevens.
Pure Stock Feature Finish: TODD BUSKIRK, Jason Walsh, Serafino Raggi, Frank Bush, Ron
Thoman, Jay Smith, John Richards.
Strada Looks For Title As 45th Moc-A-Tek Season Approaches
By BRETT DEYO
LAKEVILLE, PA - Ed Strada Jr. has been in this position before.
Since 1987, the South Canaan, Pa., driver has called Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway home,
carrying on a family tradition at the quarter-mile oval started by his father over forty
years ago.
As the historic facility, carved out of Northeastern Pennsylvania lakeside property in
1959, swings open the gates for the 45th season opener on April 17, Strada will be looking
for his fourth 358-Modified point title, a feat that would allow him to match his
predecessor, the late Ed Strada Sr.
"It's definitely something that would mean a lot," the 39-year-old admitted.
"As far as I know, my Dad and Dom Roselli are the only drivers with four
championships there. I'd like to match that."
Strada will return with his familiar No. 42, a 2003 Bicknell equipped with a Wally Fiehl
powerplant. The combination carried him to five feature victories at Moc-A-Tek last year,
along with a checkered in his first ever appearance at Redline (Pa.) Raceway in September.
"It's a good car without a doubt," Strada, a contractor by trade, said of his
proven mount. "I'm definitely going to keep it for another year."
Strada's 2003 championship came after an eight-year absence. He won back-to-back titles in
1994 and 1995.
"I was more patient than I had been in previous years," Strada said of his '03
performance. "I tried to sit back and wait the first few laps and let everything sort
out before I started actually racing."
His father, arguably the greatest driver in LMS history, earned championships in 1976,
1978, 1980 and 1982.
While he is considered a favorite for the title, Strada will have a full field to deal
with in 2004, including last year's runner-up Joey Grammes, much-improved Allan Kellogg,
Dom Roselli and former champion Gary Griffin, who will be equipped with a new Bicknell for
the season.
The battle for the championship gets underway on Saturday, April 17 with a full
five-division program of 358-Modifieds, Sportsman, Street Stocks, Pure Stock/Four
Cylinders and 250cc Micro-Sprints.
Gates open at 2 p.m. with hot laps at 5 p.m. and racing promptly at 6 p.m.
After a successful debut last year, the Sunday rain dates will return in 2004. For all
rain-postponed events, gates open at 1 p.m. with hot laps at 3 p.m. and racing at 4 p.m.
An effort will be made to conclude Sunday shows as early as possible.
One week prior to the point season lid-lifter is the practice session/Sept. 14,
2003 heldover features on April 10. Gates will open at noon, with practice set for 2-7
p.m. The rain-postponed features will roll off at 7:15 p.m., highlighted by the running of
the "Bunny 20" Sportsman main event. The Street Stocks, Pure Stock/Four
Cylinders and 250cc Micro-Sprints will fill out the card.
Only cars on hand for the original date will be allowed to participate. The grandstands
will be open free of charge. In the event of rain, the show will be made up on Easter
Sunday.
For more information on Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway, contact the speedway office at (570)
676-8665 or check out the official website: www.lakemocatekspeedway.com.
The race day phone is (570) 226-5602.
Grim Name Lives On In Northeastern Pennsylvania
By BRETT DEYO
COPLAY, PA - For years, the Grim name has been synonymous with success in Northeastern
Pennsylvania short track racing.
First came Alfred Grim, who competed at the long-gone Allentown and Pittston ovals. Then
there was the popular Gary Grim, a consistent frontrunner and feature winner who spent
over two decades turning laps at Grandview, Big Diamond, Nazareth, Penn-National and
Dorney Park.
Now, there is Brad Grim.
The 26-year-old Coplay, Pa., driver is left to carry the name that so many race fans in
the region relate to fondly as the third-generation chauffeur embarks on a new challenge
in 2004. After kick-starting his career at Big Diamond, Brad will call the tight confines
of Lake Moc-A-Tek (Pa.) Speedway home for the upcoming season in the competitive Sportsman
division.
"Most people don't know that I am a third-generation driver," Brad related.
"They always think of me as second generation, but my grandfather raced back in the
50s.
"He raced a while before my Pop started in the early 1970s."
The youngest member of the family isn't totally new to racing. He made his debut in the
Sportsman class in 2000, logging laps and gaining experience. While competing at the
NASCAR-sanctioned three-eighths mile facility, Grim picked up numerous top five finishes
and nearly stole the show on several occasions.
"We didn't get any wins," he reflected. "But I had six or seven seconds and
a lot of good finishes. A couple times, I'll admit, I beat myself. When I'm in front, I
tend to slow up and protect my lead. That bit me a few times."
For the most part, Grim was content running at Big Diamond until stumbling across
Moc-A-Tek almost accidentally last season. On July 4, he was involved in a harrowing crash
that sent him sailing out of the speedway, causing severe -- and expensive -- damage to
his car.
"The body didn't have a mark on it, but the rest of the car was tore up pretty bad.
All the expensive parts had to be replaced - the front clip, floor pan, transmission, bell
housing."
The team worked tirelessly to repair the damage from the accident (which gave Grim
front-page recognition in the July 8 Area Auto Racing News) but, after a month of repairs
missed the call for a mid-August Friday night, so they gave Moc-A-Tek's Saturday show a
shot.
"We ran out of time," Grim said. "So we decided to take a trip to
Moc-A-Tek. I always liked the place. I used to rent a cabin by the lake with a bunch of
friends and I'd scoot over there to watch if I had the chance.
"It was a rough place in the past, though, especially if you weren't a regular."
Following a DNQ in his Aug. 16 debut, Grim rebounded with a drive from 22nd to seventh in
his second start. At that point, he was hooked.
"We ran pretty decent, had some good luck and believe it or not, we got a lot of
respect from everybody up there," Grim stated.
"Jane (Riddle, track promoter) made us feel like we were wanted there. We were
treated as a human, not a number. I went in there and tried not to hammer on anybody and
for the most part we didn't have many problems. On a track that size, you have to expect
some contact, but I'll tell you, it was minimal."
The reserved driver capped his year with a third place effort in the Sept. 28 season
finale, despite a shock dangling from his car. That exceptional performance leaves him
pretty excited for a big 2004.
"I think I was good enough to win that night," he said.
He will return with his 2002 Dirt Wheels car, painted proudly in red with the No. 611 that
carried his father to glory. His team is also prepping a fresh, self-assembled powerplant
for the new season, as they prepare for the 200-mile round trip to the Lakeville, Pa.,
facility on a weekly basis.
"We all sat down after the last race to decide where we were racing," Grim said.
"Almost all my guys wanted to race at Moc-A-Tek, which was good because that's really
where I wanted to go.
"Saturdays are a lot easier for all of us. It's tough to get up early, work all day
then go racing on a Friday night. It's just more relaxed on a Saturday and everybody had a
good time racing up there. It kind of reminds me of the good old days."
Despite racing far from his home, Grim maintains a solid sponsor base that includes T.R.
Kovacs Hauling, Zane Grey Carpentry and Pioneer Propane.
With the knowledge and assistance of his father, an accomplished driver with well over 20
feature wins to his credit, and a bit of experience on the bullring, Grim hopes for solid
results.
"We will be there weekly trying to finish as high up in the points as we can,"
Grim said. "Hopefully, we'll get a win, too."
Moc-A-Tek Season To Kick Off With "Free" Features
By BRETT DEYO
LAKEVILLE, PA - Race fans, put those wallets away for one more week.
When Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway promoter Jane Riddle swings open the gates for the April 10
practice day, the free pass to the grandstands will include more than a routine test and
tune session.
A full program of four feature events, topped by a 20-lap Sportsman/358 Modified event
postponed from Sept. 14, 2003 will take to the quarter-mile oval, providing a preview to
the April 17 season lid-lifter.
Buddy Altemose, a 358 Modified regular from Pocono Pines, Pa., will lead the 20-car field
to green after a seven-month wait. The event, run on a threatening autumn afternoon, was
stopped by rain during the intermission period. At that point, it was rescheduled to kick
off the 2004 season.
The Street Stocks, Pure Stock/Four Cylinders and 250cc Micro Sprints will also compete in
full-length mains.
For the fans, it offers a rare opportunity to take in a full show for free.
"The grandstands will be open to the public at no charge," commented Riddle, who
operates the facility with her father, Carl "Fuzzy" Van Horn. "It will be a
full day, with practice first then some time to work on the track before the
features."
Practice is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m., with the track open for a five-hour period. All
cars are welcome for the shake down session. The make-up races are slated to get underway
at 7:15 p.m. The 2003 rules apply for those events and only the qualified cars are
eligible to compete.
One week after the year's unofficial kickoff, the fight for the five point titles will get
underway with the season opener for the 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Street Stocks, 250cc
Micro Sprints and Pure Stock/Four Cylinders.
Gates open at 2 p.m. with hot laps at 5 p.m. and racing promptly at 6 p.m.
Once again, Sunday rain dates will be in place for the 2004 season. Gates open at 1 p.m.
with hot laps at 3 p.m. and racing at 4 p.m. for all Sunday events. Management will make
an effort to run an efficient program to ensure an early trip home before the
Monday morning wake-up call.
For more information on the Thrill Track, contact Jane Riddle at (610) 751-3707 or check
out the official website: www.lakemocatekspeedway.com.
The speedway will have an expansive display at the upcoming Middletown Motorsports Car
Show at the Orange County Fairgrounds Arena in Middletown, N.Y. on April 2-4. Schedules,
rulebooks, membership applications and general information will be available.
Strada
Crowned Moc-A-Tek Champ at Festive Banquet
By BRETT DEYO
DICKSON CITY, PA - The Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway season came to a festive conclusion last
Saturday night with an impressive Awards Banquet.
A large turnout of 275 drivers, car owners, officials, participants and media members
jammed Genetti's Manor to recognize the top finishers from the 2003 season and culminate
another successful season for the quarter-mile oval under the management of Jane Riddle
and Carl Van Horn.
Following a delicious family style dinner, recently hired track announcer Greg Hertzog
took to the podium for the fast-paced awards presentation.
For the first time in eight years, short track ace Ed Strada Jr. was honored as the 358
Modified track champion. Strada, of South Canaan, Pa., dominated the division with five
victories, including the July 5 Ed Strada Sr. Memorial en route to his third career LMS
championship.
Strada's comfortable 255-point margin came as a result of consistent finishes throughout
the grueling summer months of July and August.
"It was a good year without a doubt," said the 39-year-old Strada. "We
finished every lap, and we never went off on the hook there all year.
"I think I used my head a little more. I took my time, really most of the races I
won, I didn't get to the lead until the last couple laps."
Strada picked up a handsome trophy and point fund money to accompany a championship jacket
from American Race Tires, who provided apparel to each of the five divisional champs.
In a show of appreciation, Strada took the microphone to thank his sponsors and presented
plaques to those who supported him throughout the year.
Joey Grammes, Allan Kellogg, Gary Griffin and Dom Roselli completed the front five in the
headline division.
Joey Grammes was crowned Sportsman champion for the third time in his career, earning his
second consecutive title by 170 markers. The Kunkletown, Pa., 26-year-old collected eight
Sportsman feature wins to accompany his standout season in the 358 Modified ranks.
"Our Sportsman car was great all year," Grammes related. "Some nights it
was faster on the clock than our Modified. It was that good."
Longtime dirt track racer Archie Myers III rallied to finish second off the strength of an
August 16 triumph in the George Lewis Memorial. Kevin Bates, Rick Raisner and Jesse Kline
trailed.
In a battle of siblings, 17-year-old high school student Nick Petrilak bested older
brother Brian to win his first Street Stock championship. The Greenfield Township, Pa.,
talent secured the title with an emotional score in the Mike Petrilak Memorial on August
30, the final night of point racing.
Brian Petrilak finished just 40 points shy in second. Tom Hermann, Eddie Kudrako and Phil
Retter were third through fifth, respectively.
Frank Bush of Belvidere, N.J. piloted his Pinto to the Pure Stock championship, scoring a
pair of feature victories along the way. The personable 44-year-old is now a three-time
LMS champion.
Jim Balutis, Gary Schoch, Jason Walsh and Ralph Davis completed the front five.
In the 250cc Micro Sprint ranks, Ed Krupa of Nazareth, Pa., raced to the title in his
first season at the speedway. The "Racing Dentist" started the season with three
consecutive wins and carried that momentum to a whopping 345-point advantage.
Frank Venezia finished second, with Stephanie Stevens, Kevin Nolf and Ralph Utter Jr. in
tow.
Aside from the top finishers in the point standings, a number of special awards were
distributed throughout the evening. They included:
BLC Motorsports Rookie of the Year Awards: Ryan Taylor (358 Modified); Ryan Olsommer
(Sportsman); Steve Raymond (Street Stock); Jason Walsh (Pure Stock) and Joe Smith (250cc
Micro Sprint).
Speed Graphics Most Popular Driver Awards: Joey Grammes (358 Modified); Ryan Olsommer
(Sportsman); Phil Retter (Street Stock); Ralph Davis (Pure Stock) and Matt Mountz (250cc
Micro Sprint).
Most Improved Driver Awards: Joe Eisenhauer (358 Modified); Jesse Kline and Greg Morgan
(Sportsman) and Carl Heater (Street Stock).
Sportsmanship Awards: Tim Gutekunst (358 Modified); Mike Van Tassel (Sportsman); Bill Saxe
(Street Stock); Ralph Davis and Jimmy Balutis (Pure Stock) and Henry Palmer (250cc Micro
Sprint).
Hard Luck Awards: Nick Barassi Jr. (358 Modified); Troy Moyer (Sportsman); Tom Cilurso
(Street Stock); Ron Blake (Pure Stock) and Matt Mountz (250cc Micro Sprint).
The first annual Mr. Excitement Award went to 358 Modified star Allan Kellogg for his
patented high-line charges through the field.
The Norm Gehris Memorial Mechanic of the Year Award was presented to Dan Kizer, the crew
chief for Allan Kellogg. Gehris, who passed away in December, was a mainstay in the Scott
Frack pit area.
For their dedication to running the speedway's Kids Club, organizing giveaways and
ensuring fans of the future, the Raisner family picked up the Service Award.
Female Sportsman racer Marie Knecht earned the Shirley Muldowney Award, in honor of the
multi-time NHRA Top Fuel champion, for breaking the gender barrier in the open wheel
division.
After beating lymph node cancer to return to racing, and earn his first feature win on
July 26, Sportsman competitor Mike McCollum took home the Comeback Award.
Track scorer, handicapper and all around employee Danielle Smith received the Checkered
Flag Fan Club Award. Other Staff Awards went to Greg Thatcher, T.J. Amabile and Brett
Deyo.
DJ Frankie Carll Productions rocked the house following the awards.
On Friday night, 100 race enthusiasts gathered at Genetti's Manor for the second annual
Pre-Banquet Party.
Ashley Marold of Honesdale, Pa., a 16-year-old Wayne Highlands High School student, was
crowned Miss Moc-A-Tek.
Eight-year-old Myranda Strada of South Canaan, Pa., picked up the Little Miss Moc-A-Tek
title. The daughter of 358 Mod track champ Ed Strada Jr. is a second grader at Hamlin
Elementary.
BANQUET NOTES: After exploring his options over the winter months, Dom Roselli looks to
2004 with hopes of his fifth LMS 358 Modified championship. Roselli, who endured more than
his share of misfortune in '03, will have a revamped Teo-Pro car at his disposal for the
upcoming season…
Gary Griffin will enter his 24th season of Moc-A-Tek competition with a 2004 Bicknell
mount under him. The former track champion hopes to improve on his fourth place finish in
2003. "I had a decent year," the Archbald, Pa., driver quipped. "Just some
bad luck here and there cost me."…
Making the jump to the 358 Modified ranks for the '04 season is second-generation driver
Jesse Kline. The 21-year-old picked up a 2001 Teo-Pro car from his father, seasoned
big-block driver Bruce, which he will use in his freshman year. He will be joined by East
Windsor (N.J.) Speedway convert Keith Nonnemacher, who will also leap to the small-block
ranks…
Former 250cc Micro Sprint racer Eric Palmer picked up the championship winning 2003
Bicknell from Afton (N.Y.) Speedway regular Jeremy Smith, and will make a charge on the
Sportsman division. The car will be equipped with Dave Van Horn power…
Scott Frack's return to weekly Moc-A-Tek competition will come in a former Matt Quinn
Teo-Pro car, which he will run in the 358 Modified ranks…
Joey Grammes, who publicly discussed taking some time off from racing in 2004, will return
to Moc-A-Tek tentatively in the 358 Mod ranks only, instead of running both open wheel
classes. Grammes has a Spring wedding on the horizon; he will wed longtime girlfriend Jenn
Correll in Barbados in late March…
The 2004 LMS season gets underway with a practice session/Sept. 14, 2003 heldover features
on April 10, then the point season opener on April 17...
Moc-A-Tek Lowers 250cc
Micro Sprint Age Limit To 10
By BRETT DEYO
LAKEVILLE, PA - Young drivers will have an opportunity to gain big-time experience in 2004
at Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway.
In a decision handed down last week by Race Director Jane Riddle, the minimum age
requirement to compete in the 250cc Micro Sprint division has been lowered to 10. The
change will allow some of the younger competitors previously unable to compete at the fast
quarter-mile oval a chance to gain valuable experience. The limit in past years had been
14.
"We've had some younger drivers and their parents call to race here," Riddle
said. "The interest has been there, so we gave it some serious thought."
Riddle stressed that all minors under 17 years of age must have a signed and notarized
release form before entering the pit area.
She also noted that the young drivers will be under the watchful eye of officials - if
they are not capable of running at a reasonable pace, they will be sent to the pit area.
She hopes the parents will act as a responsible judge of their child's ability and
experience level.
"I think the parents would know if their child can handle the track," Riddle
added. "Some kids will adapt quickly; Davie Franek was a classic example, he was fast
at a young age. There are a lot of kids who are ready to race straight from Go-Karts or
Quarter Midgets."
A side-effect of the change is a reduction in age for admittance into the track's
full-sized car pit area. That, too, will be 10 years of age, but the age limit to race in
any of the track's full sized divisions remains 14.
In other 250cc Micro Sprint news, an American Racer right rear tire will be mandatory in
2004, carrying a Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway stamp. The change will directly benefit the
racers. It will improve the division's point fund significantly and it effects only the
right rear. Racers can use their brand of choice on the rest of the car.
"I'm trying to help the point fund," Riddle said. "It's all going right
back to the racer."
Also, the track will host the Northeast PA 250cc Micro Sprint National on September 25,
featuring a 40-lap $1,500 to win main event with a fuel stop at the halfway point.
For further information on the Thrill Track, contact the speedway office at (570) 676-8665
or check out the website: www.lakemocatekspeedway.com.
Ed Strada Sr. Memorial
Firecracker 40 To Highlight 2004 Schedule
By BRETT DEYO
LAKEVILLE, PA - After an astounding return last season, the Ed Strada Sr. Memorial
Firecracker 40 will be back at Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway in 2004.
The 40-lap 358 Modified Championship is set for July 3 this season, as a fine field of
small block Modifieds will battle the Pennsylvania quarter-mile oval for a $1,750 payday.
Again, an increased purse will run back through the field, with the last place finisher
picking up a respectable $150 at the payoff window.
"Last year, the race was a big success," said Race Director Jane Riddle, who has
been at the helm of the historic bullring since the 2001 campaign. "I'm looking
forward to running it again on the same weekend, it was good to see some different drivers
and fans at the track."
Again this year, event and lap sponsorships are being sought. Event sponsorships start out
at a respectable $100 and lap sponsorships are just $10. A special program will be printed
on the night of the event and all sponsors will be recognized both in print and on the
track PA system. Any interested parties should contact Brett Deyo at (845) 534-8465 or via
e-mail at deyo99h@aol.com
In 2003, the race returned after a seven year absence. Appropriately, it was Ed Strada Jr.
picking up the emotional victory in front of the largest crowd of the season. Three-time
LMS champion Dom Roselli, Carl Pittenger, Tommy Hager and Josh Beierle trailed. In the
process, Strada became a two-time winner of the prestigious event - his first checkered
came in 1994.
Past race winners include Jeff Rudalavage (1991, 1992 and 1995); Dick Marcinko (1987); Ron
Mawson (1988); Lynn Highhouse (1990); Bernie Griffin (1993) and George Kostelansky (1996).
The race is run in memory of Ed Strada Sr., a four-time Moc-A-Tek Speedway champion and
arguably the finest driver ever to strap behind the wheel of a Modified at the track. He
lost his life to a heart attack shortly after the 1986 season.
Anticipation is high for the 2004 campaign at the popular speedway located in the Pocono
foothills. Over 88 pit spots have already been reserved, with a wealth of new faces
joining the regulars in each of the five divisions. Any driver interested in reserving a
spot should contact Jane Riddle at (570) 676-8665. Spots are $100.
On the agenda is the annual Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway Banquet Weekend on January 23 and 24
at Genetti's Manor in Dickson City, Pa. On Friday evening, the Pre-Banquet party will be
held, featuring the Miss Moc-A-Tek and Little Miss Moc-A-Tek Contests. Contestants are
still needed for both events. Tickets for the Friday night portion are $20.
The Champions Night celebration culminates the weekend on Saturday night as the stars of
the 2003 season are honored. The top ten finishers in all divisions will receive trophies
and monetary awards, while a host of special awards will be handed out. Tickets are $50 -
included is an open bar, family style dinner and music and dancing by DE Wilson.
Lake Moc-A-Tek Speedway holds racing programs every Saturday night from April through
September featuring 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Street Stocks, 250cc Micro Sprints and Pure
Stocks. For further information, check out the website: www.lakemocatekspeedway.com.
Copyright © 1998-2005 by South Jersey Dirt Racing/ToddJ All Rights Reserved. Born on date April 21, 1998