Showing posts with label Sunset Speedway. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sunset Speedway. Show all posts
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Inside Track TV... post-Victoria Day weekend (2011) edition
This is the post-Victoria Day (2011) weekend edition of Inside Track TV, featuring Spencer Lewis. In this show, Spencer highlights some of the action at Sunset, Delaware and many other shorts tracks around Ontario and North America.
Tune in Thursday for a preview of the upcoming weekend's short track activity.
Visit www.InsideTrackNews.com for more info.
Monday, May 23, 2011
PHOTO: Sunset Speedway - May 22, 2011
A gallery of 200+ photos from Sunday, May 22, 2011 at Sunset Speedway (Stroud, ON) featuring the OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Models, Lucas Oil Canadian Vintage Modifieds and the Lucas Oil Can-Am Midgets. Photos by Greg MacPherson / www.InsideTrackNews.com
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Inside Track TV (May 21-23, 2011)
Inside Track Motorsport News contributor Spencer Lewis offers a preview of some of the major short track events taking place on the 2011 Victoria Day long weekend. Visit www.InsideTrackNews.com for more information about Inside Track; the official publication of Canadian Motorsports. Thanks to Spencer Lewis!
Monday, July 12, 2010
Isherwood Breaks Streak, Watson Notches Win Number Three Sunset Speedway Race Report July 10th, 2010
Isherwood Breaks Streak; Watson Notches Win Number Three
Spencer Lewis
With summer heating up and mid-season approaching, drivers in all three of Sunset’s home-track divisions are beginning to put together the necessary hot streaks to take a run at the coveted 2010 championship.
By the time the lights went out on July 10th, the Sunset faithful welcomed a points leader back to victory lane, witnessed an underdog’s defeat of a giant and discovered the next generation of one of the track’s most competitive divisions.
The Owens Corning Mini Stocks kicked off the action on Canadian Tire night, bringing a field of 23 cars to the 3/8ths mile for their 25-lap A Main.
Defending race winner Ken Donaldson Jr. (No. 03 Custom Steering Nissan) found himself starting mid-pack, allowing for a pair of fresh faces to share time in the limelight whilst pacing the talent-laden field.
Former Super Stock competitor Dean Curry (No. 09 Dinsmore Auto Wreckers/Two Chicks with Eggs Dodge) would spend time at the front through the first 7 laps, though a train of Nissan 240sxs including defending track champion Doug Butler, Ben Melenhorst and the aforementioned Ken Donaldson Jr., was quickly cutting its way through the pack en route to Curry’s back bumper.
Melenhorst (No. 26 The Tire Guys Nissan) would become the first of the trio to storm the gate, and would carry the lead for a single lap, before Donaldson slipped by, immediately working towards a 3-car length lead.
As Donaldson stretched his lead, a phenomenal battle began to heat up in his rearview, pitting Butler (No. 10 RSA Auto Parts/Jeff’s Towing Nissan) and familiar foe Warren Paxton (No. 33 CB Services of Newmarket/Blue Mountain Honda of Collingwood Honda).
Paxton would gain the upper hand, and as the curtain fell for the Mini Stocks, Donaldson collected his second win in as many starts, followed by Paxton, Butler, Terry Clodd (No. 34 ShipCanada.ca/Rosstech Automotive Honda) and Ben Melenhorst.
When questioned about his winning ride’s setup for the evening, Donaldson explained, “The track conditions were almost identical between last Saturday and tonight. We went with pretty much the exact same setup, and it just worked really well”
The second-generation wheelman continued, “We went back to the shop and watched the tape from my win last week, because I still felt as though I had alot to learn. I sat down with [younger brother and Super Stock points leader] Kyle and he explained that I’m still not showing enough patience. So I definitely tried to implement that into my gameplan tonight”
As the oldest of the Donaldson brothers set the first winning streak of his career in motion, his younger brother looked to extend the longest in his decade of competition.
Kyle Donaldson (No. 53 Custom Steering/Planet Recovery Co. Monte Carlo) entered the evening on a 7-race Sunset Speedway winning streak, looking for his incredible 8th straight home-track victory.
By virtue of being the division’s points leader, Donaldson would depart from the 18th starting position, behind one of the most talented assemblies of talent the speedway has seen all season.
With the majority of the Tim-BR Mart Super Stock division’s perennial contenders being faced with the daunting task of manoeuvring their way through the pack, the early stages of the event were wide open for a number of talented prospects.
Enter Chance Isherwood. The Utopia, ON upstart made his Sunset debut several weeks into the 2010 season, coming off of a 2009 campaign that saw the former Kawartha Speedway Mini Stock champion sit on the sidelines as a result of a lack of sponsorship dollars.
At the drop of the green, Isherwood wasted little time capitalizing on his front pack starting position, as he relieved early leader Ryan Semple (No. 64 Lucas Oil/Anderson Sheet Metal Camaro) of his post only 3 laps into the 30-lap A Main.
In weeks past, Donaldson has been able to utilize a slick gameplan of bobbing and weaving around his adversaries, utilizing caution periods to ensure the field is unable to pull too far away from the #53’s front bumper.
However, this evening was much different, as early contact with Ethan Courneyea (No. 71 Sergio’s Pizza/Simcoe Barge & Break Wall Nova) left Donaldson looking as though he was missing a step or two in comparison to the weeks gone by.
As ‘Wheely’ struggled, Isherwood excelled. The sophomore Super Stock driver had worked to a half-straightaway lead by the halfway mark, almost doubling the feat as the field received the ‘2 laps to go’ signal.
Just as Donaldson had made his way to the 6th position – mere inches outside of the top-5 – Isherwood crossed the start line, unopposed, for the biggest win of his young career; Edward Cole, Flyin’ Frank Davey, Matt Bentley and ‘The Loon Ranger’ Donny Brandon completed the fast five.
In victory lane, almost overcome with emotion, Isherwood made one thing clear, “This is absolutely incredible to win like this. This is for my crew, my sponsors, my friends, everyone that’s supported me and all of the fans. Thank you!”
When asked his thoughts heading into the night’s event, Isherwood admitted, “We weren’t too sure the car was even going to be competitive tonight. We were just out to make some laps and pick up points, to be honest. But then I got to the lead, then all of a sudden I’m in lapped traffic, passing cars”
“Kyle Donaldson is the fastest car in the province. And this is the toughest division in the province. So to be here right now is pretty amazing. You know, everyone underestimates us boys from Utopia, but we’re here now. Hopefully everyone is taking notice, because we’re going right back to the front”
Still reeling from Isherwood’s surprising breakthrough win, the jam-packed stands still had enough energy left to welcome the CGC Sheetrock Ltd. Late Models to cap the evening off with a 30-lap A Main.
Already in 2010, the entire province has had an eye on Sunset’s marquee division, as it has proven itself to be undoubtedly one of the deepest talent pools in Late Model racing.
Entering the evening on a bit of a losing streak, Stayner, ON teenager Brandon Watson was in need of a healthy performance. Although the third generation star is currently leading the Sunset points battle, his performances away from his home-track have been wrought with mechanical breakdowns and on-track altercations.
A stark contrast to the Super Stock’s caution-free affair only minutes earlier, the early goings of the Ltd. Late Model A-Main were plagued by a rash of caution periods.
After a trio of cautions, Rookie of the Year contender and Super Stock graduate Brad Holden (No. 97 Holden Electric/Midland Super Lube Dodge) would make his way past fellow first year pilot Sean Grosman (No. 29 Carlisle Customz/Landing Strip Gentleman’s Club Chevrolet) to pace the field up until the half-way mark.
One lap removed from the mid-race point, Holden would see his lead snuffed out by 3-time Super Stock champion ‘The Professional’ Rob Poole (No. 45 Alliston Auto Sales/AG-NAV GPS Precision Navigation Chevrolet).
With Poole beginning to pull away from the rest of the field, yet another caution would rear its ugly head, bringing runner-up Brandon Watson (No. 9 Smart Exchange Propane/Ken MacKinnon Construction Chevrolet) to Poole’s outside, and handing the teenager an ideal opportunity to notch his third victory of the 2010 season.
One picture-perfect restart later, Watson found himself clear of Poole, beginning to open up his lead with 1/3rd of the race remaining.
As the laps ticked by, Watson would find defending track champion Stompin’ Tom Walters (No. 47 McColl Racing Enterprises Chevrolet) beginning to loom in his rearview mirrow. Unfortunately for Walters, time would run out before a proper challenge could be mounted.
With the checkered flag waving, Watson lead Walters, Poole, Jason ‘Bam Bam’ Witty and Keith McLeod across the stripe.
After climbing from his winning ride, surrounded by crew and family, Watson emphasized, “It’s really, really nice to be back in victory lane. After the bad luck we’ve been having, this is especially satisfying”
“I just want to thank my Dad [Tim Watson] for all the help with our clutch problems last Sunday at Peterborough Speedway. My whole crew has just been so great this season.”
When asked about the season-high 26 cars that started the event, Watson shrugged, “It was a little tougher tonight. Considering the size of the field, there was a little more traffic than what we’re used to dealing with here”
QUICK RESULTS
MINI STOCK
HEAT 1: Warren Paxton Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 2: Ken Donaldson Jr. Queensville, ON
HEAT 3: Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
HEAT 4: Warren Paxton Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 5: Ken Donaldson Jr. Queensville, ON
HEAT 6: Terry Clodd Holland Landing, ON
B MAIN: ‘The King of Hearts’ Brian Love Barrie, ON
A MAIN:
1) Ken Donaldson Jr. Queensville, ON
2) Warren Paxton Holland Landing, ON
3) Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
4) Terry Clodd Holland Landing, ON
5) Ben Melenhorst Stayner, ON
SUPER STOCKS
HEAT 1: Paul Maltese Innisfil, ON
HEAT 2: Matt Bentley Acton, ON
HEAT 3: Chance Isherwood Utopia, ON
HEAT 4: Kyle ‘Wheely’ Donaldson Queensville, ON
A MAIN:
1) Chance Isherwood Utopia, ON
2) Edward Cole Sutton, ON
3) Flyin’ Frank Davey River Drive Park, ON
4) Matt Bentley Acton, ON
5) ‘The Loon Ranger’ Donny Brandon Barrie, ON
LTD. LATE MODELS
HEAT 1: Brad Holden Midland, ON
HEAT 2: ‘Mr. Excitement’ Chris Morrow Anten Mills, ON
HEAT 3: Brandon Watson Stayner, ON
HEAT 4: Keith McLeod Barrie, ON
HEAT 5: Kevin Cornelius Orangeville, ON
HEAT 6: ‘The Bully’ Dwayne Baker Stayner, ON
B MAIN: Stompin’ Tom Walters Bradford, ON
A MAIN:
1) Brandon Watson Stayner, ON
2) Stompin’ Tom Walters Bradford, ON
3) ‘The Professional’ Rob Poole Cookstown, ON
4) Jason ‘Bam Bam’ Witty Queensville, ON
5) Keith McLeod Barrie, ON
Spencer Lewis
With summer heating up and mid-season approaching, drivers in all three of Sunset’s home-track divisions are beginning to put together the necessary hot streaks to take a run at the coveted 2010 championship.
By the time the lights went out on July 10th, the Sunset faithful welcomed a points leader back to victory lane, witnessed an underdog’s defeat of a giant and discovered the next generation of one of the track’s most competitive divisions.
The Owens Corning Mini Stocks kicked off the action on Canadian Tire night, bringing a field of 23 cars to the 3/8ths mile for their 25-lap A Main.
Defending race winner Ken Donaldson Jr. (No. 03 Custom Steering Nissan) found himself starting mid-pack, allowing for a pair of fresh faces to share time in the limelight whilst pacing the talent-laden field.
Former Super Stock competitor Dean Curry (No. 09 Dinsmore Auto Wreckers/Two Chicks with Eggs Dodge) would spend time at the front through the first 7 laps, though a train of Nissan 240sxs including defending track champion Doug Butler, Ben Melenhorst and the aforementioned Ken Donaldson Jr., was quickly cutting its way through the pack en route to Curry’s back bumper.
Melenhorst (No. 26 The Tire Guys Nissan) would become the first of the trio to storm the gate, and would carry the lead for a single lap, before Donaldson slipped by, immediately working towards a 3-car length lead.
As Donaldson stretched his lead, a phenomenal battle began to heat up in his rearview, pitting Butler (No. 10 RSA Auto Parts/Jeff’s Towing Nissan) and familiar foe Warren Paxton (No. 33 CB Services of Newmarket/Blue Mountain Honda of Collingwood Honda).
Paxton would gain the upper hand, and as the curtain fell for the Mini Stocks, Donaldson collected his second win in as many starts, followed by Paxton, Butler, Terry Clodd (No. 34 ShipCanada.ca/Rosstech Automotive Honda) and Ben Melenhorst.
When questioned about his winning ride’s setup for the evening, Donaldson explained, “The track conditions were almost identical between last Saturday and tonight. We went with pretty much the exact same setup, and it just worked really well”
The second-generation wheelman continued, “We went back to the shop and watched the tape from my win last week, because I still felt as though I had alot to learn. I sat down with [younger brother and Super Stock points leader] Kyle and he explained that I’m still not showing enough patience. So I definitely tried to implement that into my gameplan tonight”
As the oldest of the Donaldson brothers set the first winning streak of his career in motion, his younger brother looked to extend the longest in his decade of competition.
Kyle Donaldson (No. 53 Custom Steering/Planet Recovery Co. Monte Carlo) entered the evening on a 7-race Sunset Speedway winning streak, looking for his incredible 8th straight home-track victory.
By virtue of being the division’s points leader, Donaldson would depart from the 18th starting position, behind one of the most talented assemblies of talent the speedway has seen all season.
With the majority of the Tim-BR Mart Super Stock division’s perennial contenders being faced with the daunting task of manoeuvring their way through the pack, the early stages of the event were wide open for a number of talented prospects.
Enter Chance Isherwood. The Utopia, ON upstart made his Sunset debut several weeks into the 2010 season, coming off of a 2009 campaign that saw the former Kawartha Speedway Mini Stock champion sit on the sidelines as a result of a lack of sponsorship dollars.
At the drop of the green, Isherwood wasted little time capitalizing on his front pack starting position, as he relieved early leader Ryan Semple (No. 64 Lucas Oil/Anderson Sheet Metal Camaro) of his post only 3 laps into the 30-lap A Main.
In weeks past, Donaldson has been able to utilize a slick gameplan of bobbing and weaving around his adversaries, utilizing caution periods to ensure the field is unable to pull too far away from the #53’s front bumper.
However, this evening was much different, as early contact with Ethan Courneyea (No. 71 Sergio’s Pizza/Simcoe Barge & Break Wall Nova) left Donaldson looking as though he was missing a step or two in comparison to the weeks gone by.
As ‘Wheely’ struggled, Isherwood excelled. The sophomore Super Stock driver had worked to a half-straightaway lead by the halfway mark, almost doubling the feat as the field received the ‘2 laps to go’ signal.
Just as Donaldson had made his way to the 6th position – mere inches outside of the top-5 – Isherwood crossed the start line, unopposed, for the biggest win of his young career; Edward Cole, Flyin’ Frank Davey, Matt Bentley and ‘The Loon Ranger’ Donny Brandon completed the fast five.
In victory lane, almost overcome with emotion, Isherwood made one thing clear, “This is absolutely incredible to win like this. This is for my crew, my sponsors, my friends, everyone that’s supported me and all of the fans. Thank you!”
When asked his thoughts heading into the night’s event, Isherwood admitted, “We weren’t too sure the car was even going to be competitive tonight. We were just out to make some laps and pick up points, to be honest. But then I got to the lead, then all of a sudden I’m in lapped traffic, passing cars”
“Kyle Donaldson is the fastest car in the province. And this is the toughest division in the province. So to be here right now is pretty amazing. You know, everyone underestimates us boys from Utopia, but we’re here now. Hopefully everyone is taking notice, because we’re going right back to the front”
Still reeling from Isherwood’s surprising breakthrough win, the jam-packed stands still had enough energy left to welcome the CGC Sheetrock Ltd. Late Models to cap the evening off with a 30-lap A Main.
Already in 2010, the entire province has had an eye on Sunset’s marquee division, as it has proven itself to be undoubtedly one of the deepest talent pools in Late Model racing.
Entering the evening on a bit of a losing streak, Stayner, ON teenager Brandon Watson was in need of a healthy performance. Although the third generation star is currently leading the Sunset points battle, his performances away from his home-track have been wrought with mechanical breakdowns and on-track altercations.
A stark contrast to the Super Stock’s caution-free affair only minutes earlier, the early goings of the Ltd. Late Model A-Main were plagued by a rash of caution periods.
After a trio of cautions, Rookie of the Year contender and Super Stock graduate Brad Holden (No. 97 Holden Electric/Midland Super Lube Dodge) would make his way past fellow first year pilot Sean Grosman (No. 29 Carlisle Customz/Landing Strip Gentleman’s Club Chevrolet) to pace the field up until the half-way mark.
One lap removed from the mid-race point, Holden would see his lead snuffed out by 3-time Super Stock champion ‘The Professional’ Rob Poole (No. 45 Alliston Auto Sales/AG-NAV GPS Precision Navigation Chevrolet).
With Poole beginning to pull away from the rest of the field, yet another caution would rear its ugly head, bringing runner-up Brandon Watson (No. 9 Smart Exchange Propane/Ken MacKinnon Construction Chevrolet) to Poole’s outside, and handing the teenager an ideal opportunity to notch his third victory of the 2010 season.
One picture-perfect restart later, Watson found himself clear of Poole, beginning to open up his lead with 1/3rd of the race remaining.
As the laps ticked by, Watson would find defending track champion Stompin’ Tom Walters (No. 47 McColl Racing Enterprises Chevrolet) beginning to loom in his rearview mirrow. Unfortunately for Walters, time would run out before a proper challenge could be mounted.
With the checkered flag waving, Watson lead Walters, Poole, Jason ‘Bam Bam’ Witty and Keith McLeod across the stripe.
After climbing from his winning ride, surrounded by crew and family, Watson emphasized, “It’s really, really nice to be back in victory lane. After the bad luck we’ve been having, this is especially satisfying”
“I just want to thank my Dad [Tim Watson] for all the help with our clutch problems last Sunday at Peterborough Speedway. My whole crew has just been so great this season.”
When asked about the season-high 26 cars that started the event, Watson shrugged, “It was a little tougher tonight. Considering the size of the field, there was a little more traffic than what we’re used to dealing with here”
QUICK RESULTS
MINI STOCK
HEAT 1: Warren Paxton Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 2: Ken Donaldson Jr. Queensville, ON
HEAT 3: Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
HEAT 4: Warren Paxton Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 5: Ken Donaldson Jr. Queensville, ON
HEAT 6: Terry Clodd Holland Landing, ON
B MAIN: ‘The King of Hearts’ Brian Love Barrie, ON
A MAIN:
1) Ken Donaldson Jr. Queensville, ON
2) Warren Paxton Holland Landing, ON
3) Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
4) Terry Clodd Holland Landing, ON
5) Ben Melenhorst Stayner, ON
SUPER STOCKS
HEAT 1: Paul Maltese Innisfil, ON
HEAT 2: Matt Bentley Acton, ON
HEAT 3: Chance Isherwood Utopia, ON
HEAT 4: Kyle ‘Wheely’ Donaldson Queensville, ON
A MAIN:
1) Chance Isherwood Utopia, ON
2) Edward Cole Sutton, ON
3) Flyin’ Frank Davey River Drive Park, ON
4) Matt Bentley Acton, ON
5) ‘The Loon Ranger’ Donny Brandon Barrie, ON
LTD. LATE MODELS
HEAT 1: Brad Holden Midland, ON
HEAT 2: ‘Mr. Excitement’ Chris Morrow Anten Mills, ON
HEAT 3: Brandon Watson Stayner, ON
HEAT 4: Keith McLeod Barrie, ON
HEAT 5: Kevin Cornelius Orangeville, ON
HEAT 6: ‘The Bully’ Dwayne Baker Stayner, ON
B MAIN: Stompin’ Tom Walters Bradford, ON
A MAIN:
1) Brandon Watson Stayner, ON
2) Stompin’ Tom Walters Bradford, ON
3) ‘The Professional’ Rob Poole Cookstown, ON
4) Jason ‘Bam Bam’ Witty Queensville, ON
5) Keith McLeod Barrie, ON
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Butler and Donaldson Return to Victory Lane in Night 2 of Sunset Speedway's Grand Opening Weekend - Race Report (May 23rd)
Butler Returns to Victory Lane; ‘Wheely’ Stays Perfect in Night 2 of Grand Opening Weekend
Spencer Lewis
Sunday May 23rd marked the second night of Sunset’s Grand Opening weekend, and highlighting the night’s card of racing was the 2010 debut of the OSCAAR Super Late Model Tour. However, while the popular, high-horsepower monsters dominated the stopwatches, a pair of Donaldson Racing Stable teammates looked to show the capacity crowd that it’s not the size of the motor that counts.
Only one night removed from their respective victories, teammates Kevin Van Der Beek and Kyle ‘Wheely’ Donaldson looked to hold on to their points leads and rack up another pair of victories for their stable.
The Owens Corning Mini Stocks were the first feature on track. Grand Opening Night 1 winner Kevin Van Der Beek (No. 51 Highland Collision Centre/Custom Steering Nissan) appeared to be the man to watch early on in the night, capturing the win in his first of two qualifying heat races. However, in Van Der Beek’s second qualifying heat, an on-track incident with a lapped car left his Nissan 240sx with heavy front end suspension damage.
Van Der Beek was able to answer the bell for the 25-lap A-Main, though it was clear his car’s overall handling had been effected. With Van Der Beek’s car suffering, the door was opened for the rest of the field.
Early on, both Ralph Sikes (No 37. Dwinnell’s DEL. & Movers LTD./irisvisualinc.com Ford) and Ken Donaldson Jr. (No. 03 Custom Steering Nissan) enjoyed their time at the front of the field, though it was not until defending track champion Doug Butler (No. 10 Jeff’s Towing/South Barrie Collision Nissan) made his way to the head of the field on lap 6, that things got interesting.
As 2009’s most dominant Mini Stock pilot took over, it no longer became a question of wether or not Butler had the car to beat, but rather how many cars he could lap while leading the race.
Whilst the New Lowell, ON teenager carved his way through the field, a strong assortment of drivers were making a bee-line through slower traffic, in an attempt to reel in Butler’s Nissan. Those charging towards the front included defending Peterborough Speedway Chase for the Colours champion Mike Smith (No. 06 speedysmith.com Dodge), former Barrie Speedway Charger champion Billy Melenhorst (No. 14 Benzor’s Toyota 4x4 Parts/Tire Guys Nissan) and defending race winner Kevin Van Der Beek.
The three would eventually be joined by 2009 Rookie of the Year Warren Paxton (No. 33 Blue Mountain Honda of Collingwood/CB Services Honda), and would put on their own battle for position, dazzling the fans, as paint, dents and positions were all exchanged between the 4.
Meanwhile, Butler had placed a full straightaway – chok full of lapped cars – between himself and the rest of the field.
At the checkered, Butler would claim his 2nd feature win of the year, followed by Paxton, Van Der Beek, Smith and Melenhorst.
In victory lane, Butler explained that while his car was dialed in, it wasn’t all positives for the defending champion, “The car handled pretty good tonight. It’s just that we’re pushing these cars so hard now, it’s getting to be too much for the tires we’re on. It’s starting to become an issue”
After thanking his sponsors and crew for their support, Butler had a message for his competition, “Keep me on my toes! Keep pushing me. Let’s keep this fun. Work hard to beat me, and we’ll keep putting on a show for these people!’
The Tim-Br Mart Super Stock’s 30-lap A-Main would round out the Sunset support divisions before the OSCAAR tour was set to take to the track. However, as entertaining as the racing action turned out to be, the on-track battles seemed overshadowed by a scary incident involving a trio of cars shortly after the green flag flew.
Upon the drop of the green, Orillia, ON’s Charlie Smith (Orillia Kitchens/Mr. Transmission of Orillia Chevrolet) snatched the lead from outside the front row, though 2 laps later was quickly unseated by “The Upgrade” Rick Walt (No. 99 Rama Moccasin and Smoke Shop Chevrolet).
Walt would begin to put some space between himself and the rest of the field, but would find himself hounded by Edward Cole (No. 27 Brian Rogers Trucking/TTK Tool Chevrolet) until the first caution of the event flew for a fluid spill in turn-2.
The race would take a scary turn only 3 laps after the restart when, after a lap of pressuring Walt from behind, Ken Denhollander (No. 31 Pontiac) would make contact with the left-rear of Walt’s Chevrolet exiting turn-4. The contact would send Walt violently into the front stretch wall, incapacitating the #99 in front of oncoming traffic. Just as the caution light came on to alert the rest of the field of Walt’s stationary vehicle, returning driver Chris Cunnington (No. 68 Cunnington Racing Ford) would make heavy contact with the rear-end of Walt’s prone vehicle, lifting the #99 up on 2 wheels upon impact.
Both drivers would walk away from the incident, though Walt could be seen cradling his right arm shortly after.
After a lengthy red flag to clean up a gasoline spill left from Walt’s split fuel cell, 2x winner Kyle ‘Wheely’ Donaldson (No. 53 Custom Steering/Planet Recovery Chevrolet) would take over the lead from outside the front row, carrying on unchallenged for the remainder of the event.
In victory lane, Donaldson was once again quick to praise his competition, “It’s never easy to come from the rear. Dave [Doucette] was following me those last few laps, he’s a great driver and it’s never easy to beat someone of that calibre’
Later on, after loading his nearly totalled vehicle onto his trailer, Walt had this to say about the incident, “I realize we were kind of holding things up after the restart, but where did he think he was going to go? He was into my [left side] the entire lap before”
When asked about his confrontation with Denhollander in turn-2 during the red flag, Walt responded with a laugh, “It’s funny, because when I got in his window on the track, he was apologizing and explaining that he didn’t mean to turf me and it was all his fault. But as soon as we get back to the pits with his crew around, all of a sudden it’s my fault. It’s real sad, because a guy with a tonne of money just took out 2 unsponsored teams. Neither Chris [Cunnington] or myself have a whack of cash to play with, and this wreck is definitely going to hurt us”
Disappointed yet determined, Walt would add a promise for his competitors and fans alike, “I guarantee you this car will be back for Saturday. Grampa [Merv Walt of the Frame Shop] and I are going to take it home, and I don’t care how much work needs to go into it, we’re going to get this thing fixed and we will be back”
At press time, Denhollander was unable to be reached for comment.
QUICK RESULTS
MINI STOCKS
HEAT 1: Terry Clodd Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 2: Kevin Van Der Beek Aurora, ON
HEAT 3: Mike ‘Speedy’ Smith Port Elgin, ON
HEAT 4: Terry Clodd Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 5: Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
HEAT 6: Rob Krystal Holland Landing, ON
B-MAIN: Pookie Brown Stroud, ON
A-MAIN:
1) Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
2) Warren Paxton Holland Landing, ON
3) Kevin Van Der Beek Aurora, ON
SUPER STOCKS
HEAT 1: Ken Denhollander Barrie, ON
HEAT 2: Jason Elliott Angus, ON
HEAT 3: Kyle `Wheely`Donaldson Queensville, ON
HEAT 4: `The Deuce`Dave Doucette Angus, ON
B-MAIN: Flyin`Frank Davey River Drive Park, ON
A-MAIN:
1) Kyle `Wheely`Donaldson Queensville, ON
2) `The Deuce`Dave Doucette Angus, ON
3) Mark Adams Burlington, ON
Spencer Lewis
Sunday May 23rd marked the second night of Sunset’s Grand Opening weekend, and highlighting the night’s card of racing was the 2010 debut of the OSCAAR Super Late Model Tour. However, while the popular, high-horsepower monsters dominated the stopwatches, a pair of Donaldson Racing Stable teammates looked to show the capacity crowd that it’s not the size of the motor that counts.
Only one night removed from their respective victories, teammates Kevin Van Der Beek and Kyle ‘Wheely’ Donaldson looked to hold on to their points leads and rack up another pair of victories for their stable.
The Owens Corning Mini Stocks were the first feature on track. Grand Opening Night 1 winner Kevin Van Der Beek (No. 51 Highland Collision Centre/Custom Steering Nissan) appeared to be the man to watch early on in the night, capturing the win in his first of two qualifying heat races. However, in Van Der Beek’s second qualifying heat, an on-track incident with a lapped car left his Nissan 240sx with heavy front end suspension damage.
Van Der Beek was able to answer the bell for the 25-lap A-Main, though it was clear his car’s overall handling had been effected. With Van Der Beek’s car suffering, the door was opened for the rest of the field.
Early on, both Ralph Sikes (No 37. Dwinnell’s DEL. & Movers LTD./irisvisualinc.com Ford) and Ken Donaldson Jr. (No. 03 Custom Steering Nissan) enjoyed their time at the front of the field, though it was not until defending track champion Doug Butler (No. 10 Jeff’s Towing/South Barrie Collision Nissan) made his way to the head of the field on lap 6, that things got interesting.
As 2009’s most dominant Mini Stock pilot took over, it no longer became a question of wether or not Butler had the car to beat, but rather how many cars he could lap while leading the race.
Whilst the New Lowell, ON teenager carved his way through the field, a strong assortment of drivers were making a bee-line through slower traffic, in an attempt to reel in Butler’s Nissan. Those charging towards the front included defending Peterborough Speedway Chase for the Colours champion Mike Smith (No. 06 speedysmith.com Dodge), former Barrie Speedway Charger champion Billy Melenhorst (No. 14 Benzor’s Toyota 4x4 Parts/Tire Guys Nissan) and defending race winner Kevin Van Der Beek.
The three would eventually be joined by 2009 Rookie of the Year Warren Paxton (No. 33 Blue Mountain Honda of Collingwood/CB Services Honda), and would put on their own battle for position, dazzling the fans, as paint, dents and positions were all exchanged between the 4.
Meanwhile, Butler had placed a full straightaway – chok full of lapped cars – between himself and the rest of the field.
At the checkered, Butler would claim his 2nd feature win of the year, followed by Paxton, Van Der Beek, Smith and Melenhorst.
In victory lane, Butler explained that while his car was dialed in, it wasn’t all positives for the defending champion, “The car handled pretty good tonight. It’s just that we’re pushing these cars so hard now, it’s getting to be too much for the tires we’re on. It’s starting to become an issue”
After thanking his sponsors and crew for their support, Butler had a message for his competition, “Keep me on my toes! Keep pushing me. Let’s keep this fun. Work hard to beat me, and we’ll keep putting on a show for these people!’
The Tim-Br Mart Super Stock’s 30-lap A-Main would round out the Sunset support divisions before the OSCAAR tour was set to take to the track. However, as entertaining as the racing action turned out to be, the on-track battles seemed overshadowed by a scary incident involving a trio of cars shortly after the green flag flew.
Upon the drop of the green, Orillia, ON’s Charlie Smith (Orillia Kitchens/Mr. Transmission of Orillia Chevrolet) snatched the lead from outside the front row, though 2 laps later was quickly unseated by “The Upgrade” Rick Walt (No. 99 Rama Moccasin and Smoke Shop Chevrolet).
Walt would begin to put some space between himself and the rest of the field, but would find himself hounded by Edward Cole (No. 27 Brian Rogers Trucking/TTK Tool Chevrolet) until the first caution of the event flew for a fluid spill in turn-2.
The race would take a scary turn only 3 laps after the restart when, after a lap of pressuring Walt from behind, Ken Denhollander (No. 31 Pontiac) would make contact with the left-rear of Walt’s Chevrolet exiting turn-4. The contact would send Walt violently into the front stretch wall, incapacitating the #99 in front of oncoming traffic. Just as the caution light came on to alert the rest of the field of Walt’s stationary vehicle, returning driver Chris Cunnington (No. 68 Cunnington Racing Ford) would make heavy contact with the rear-end of Walt’s prone vehicle, lifting the #99 up on 2 wheels upon impact.
Both drivers would walk away from the incident, though Walt could be seen cradling his right arm shortly after.
After a lengthy red flag to clean up a gasoline spill left from Walt’s split fuel cell, 2x winner Kyle ‘Wheely’ Donaldson (No. 53 Custom Steering/Planet Recovery Chevrolet) would take over the lead from outside the front row, carrying on unchallenged for the remainder of the event.
In victory lane, Donaldson was once again quick to praise his competition, “It’s never easy to come from the rear. Dave [Doucette] was following me those last few laps, he’s a great driver and it’s never easy to beat someone of that calibre’
Later on, after loading his nearly totalled vehicle onto his trailer, Walt had this to say about the incident, “I realize we were kind of holding things up after the restart, but where did he think he was going to go? He was into my [left side] the entire lap before”
When asked about his confrontation with Denhollander in turn-2 during the red flag, Walt responded with a laugh, “It’s funny, because when I got in his window on the track, he was apologizing and explaining that he didn’t mean to turf me and it was all his fault. But as soon as we get back to the pits with his crew around, all of a sudden it’s my fault. It’s real sad, because a guy with a tonne of money just took out 2 unsponsored teams. Neither Chris [Cunnington] or myself have a whack of cash to play with, and this wreck is definitely going to hurt us”
Disappointed yet determined, Walt would add a promise for his competitors and fans alike, “I guarantee you this car will be back for Saturday. Grampa [Merv Walt of the Frame Shop] and I are going to take it home, and I don’t care how much work needs to go into it, we’re going to get this thing fixed and we will be back”
At press time, Denhollander was unable to be reached for comment.
QUICK RESULTS
MINI STOCKS
HEAT 1: Terry Clodd Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 2: Kevin Van Der Beek Aurora, ON
HEAT 3: Mike ‘Speedy’ Smith Port Elgin, ON
HEAT 4: Terry Clodd Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 5: Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
HEAT 6: Rob Krystal Holland Landing, ON
B-MAIN: Pookie Brown Stroud, ON
A-MAIN:
1) Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
2) Warren Paxton Holland Landing, ON
3) Kevin Van Der Beek Aurora, ON
SUPER STOCKS
HEAT 1: Ken Denhollander Barrie, ON
HEAT 2: Jason Elliott Angus, ON
HEAT 3: Kyle `Wheely`Donaldson Queensville, ON
HEAT 4: `The Deuce`Dave Doucette Angus, ON
B-MAIN: Flyin`Frank Davey River Drive Park, ON
A-MAIN:
1) Kyle `Wheely`Donaldson Queensville, ON
2) `The Deuce`Dave Doucette Angus, ON
3) Mark Adams Burlington, ON
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
PHOTO GALLERY: OSCAAR at Sunset Speedway - May 23, 2010 by www.davefranksphotos.com
This is an OSCAAR Super Late Model photo gallery from Sunset Speedway on Sunday, May 23, 2010. Thanks to Dave Franks for sharing his work. You can see Dave's website here.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Sunset Speedway: May 22, 2010 Official Opening photos from Dave Franks
Thanks to Dave Franks (www.davefranksphotos.com) for these shots from the Sunset Speedway's official grand opening on Saturday night. OSCAAR will be the headline attraction
at Sunset on Sunday night.
The Inside Track promotional team will be there, too, selling subscriptions. For $24.99 you get a 1 year sub and a free Inside Track hat. See you there!
Monday, May 17, 2010
Sunset Speedway: Watson's Bump and Run Brings Fans to Their Feet (Saturday, May 15th Race Report)
Watson’s Bump and Run Brings Crowd to Its Feet on Opening Night
By Spencer Lewis
Brandon Watson’s name is often brought up when the topic of up-and-coming prospects is brought up amongst insiders and fans. After all, the 17-year old has made winning Late Model – and Limited Late Model – features his business for the past 2 seasons. Though on Saturday night, Watson ensured his name would be mentioned by insiders and fans for a different reason, as the Stayner, ON native etched his name into the record books as the first CGC Sheetrock Limited Late Model pilot to claim a feature victory at the new Sunset Speedway.
The night’s feature action got underway with a 25-lap A Main for the Owens Corning Mini Stocks. The distinction of top qualifier went to 2009 Rookie of the Year Warren Paxton (No. 33 CB Services of Newmarket/JF Kitching & Son Honda), though it was defending track champion Doug Butler (No. 10 South Barrie Collision/RSA Auto Parts Nissan) who would assume the lead early on.
Butler would carry the lead before being slowed behind a lapped car, providing an opening for former Sauble Speedway Mini Stock champion (now Sunset Speedway full-timer) Mike ‘Speedy’ Smith (No. 06 speedysmith.com Dodge) who would pace Butler by up to 2 car lengths until he was struck down by a right front flat tire, forcing his retirement on lap 22 – only 3 laps from victory.
On the ensuing restart, Butler would open up a 3 car length on eventual runner-up Terry Clodd (No. 34 shipcanada.ca/Barrie Tire Shaving Honda) to capture the victory, completing his Night 1 hat trick in the process.
Afterwards, Butler was quick to admit that, although the track had undergone some serious changes, his winning ride was still very much the same. “This is the same car from last year, I made it a little safer for the new configuration, but performance-wise it’s the exact same.” When asked about his mid-race battle with Smith, Butler added “I’ve raced [Mike] at every other track in the province, and I know he pushes his car just as hard as I push mine. I definitely don’t think either one of us could have pushed any harder tonight though, that was alot of fun.”
Before retiring to tech lane, Butler would make his 2010 intentions clear, “I’m looking for the ultimate follow up to a championship season, I want nothing more than to defend my title”.
The Tim-Br Mart Super Stock division would take to the track next, with a 30-lap affair that looked to be a hotly contested affair between the 2 top qualifiers from the evening’s heat races – former Sunset Speedway Invitational victor “The Deuce” Dave Doucette (No. 44 ATV Landscaping/Xtreme Auto Machine Chrysler) and 2009 Kawartha Speedway Thunder Car Champion Kyle “Wheely” Donaldson (No. 53 Planet Recovery/Custom Steering Chevrolet).
Defending track champion Flyin’ Frank Davey (No. 49 Barney’s Auto Electric/Bradford Print Shoppe Chevrolet) would lead early on, before handing the top spot to rising star Jason Elliott (No. 22 Woodward Service Center/Simcoe Auto Recyclers Chevrolet) just before the race’s midway mark.
A pair of cautions would mar the otherwise fluid event – both scored at lap 18 – as Doucette and Davey would tangle with slower cars in separate incidents, resulting in a major loss of track position and a major injection of sheet metal damage for both of the early night favourites.
As Davey and Doucette were struggling, Donaldson made his entrance into the spotlight, squeaking past Elliott to take the race lead off of turn-2, setting off a 5-star battle between the pair that would bring the appreciative crowd to their feet on more than one occasion. The battling leaders would break away from the rest of the pack, as Elliott looked for grip on the high-side of the race track while “Wheely” would run a combination of different lines to find the bite necessary to hold on to the lead.
As the checkered flag flew, it was Donaldson leading Elliott, Mark Adams (No. 51 Rankin’s Auto/Racin’ Stuff Chevrolet), rookie “Doomsday” Danny Archibald (Steve’s Towing/Weld It Creations Chevrolet) and Paul Maltese (No. 28 Presto Appliance & Repair Chevrolet) across the stripe.
In victory lane, the former Sunset Speedway champion was quick to praise his adversary as well as the new facility. “Wow, what can I say, this is just a phenomenal place to race” gushed “Wheely” upon exiting his car. “That was a great battle, Jason’s clearly a talented guy, and I’m sure this whole group is going to get alot tougher to beat as the season goes”. Donaldson would go on to thank his sponsors and crew, before heading to post-race technical inspection.
As the Super Stocks cleared the track, the stars and cars of the CGC Sheetrock Limited Late Model division took their place under the lights, prepared to send the crowd home happy with a scheduled 30-lap A Main.
While the field entered turn-4 for the green flag, all eyes were on young veteran Jason “Bam Bam” Witty who, after winning both of his qualifying heat races, was looking to seal his first ever hat trick in his 11-year racing career.
Multi-time Sunset Speedway track champion “Mr. Excitement” Chris Morrow (No. 11 Morrow Electric/Douglas Ford Collision Centre Chevrolet) would lead early on, appearing dominant for the first 15 laps of the feature. As the field picked up the crossed flags – indicating the event’s halfway point – Witty began to pressure Morrow, searching high and low for a way past the 2008 track champion.
As the field slowed for a lap 19 caution, Morrow’s car inexplicably shut off on the backstretch, requiring the aid of Sunset’s official wrecker service Graves Towing to simply make his way to pit road, unceremoniously ending his evening after leading from the opening circuit.
After Morrow’s departure, Witty (No. 19 Larue’s Haulage/Matco Tools Chevrolet) assumed the lead on the ensuing restart, and would break away from the pack with defending Autumn Colours Classic champion Brandon Watson (No. 9 OK Tire/Huronia Landscaping Chevrolet) in hot pursuit.
The chess match played out quite calmly until the final 3 laps of the race, when Witty’s left side tires would catch the curb in turn-4, slowing his momentum and allowing the hard-charging Watson to pull directly to the back bumper of the leading number 19.
Things would go from interesting to compelling on the next lap, as entering turn 1, Watson would bump the rear-end of Witty’s Chevrolet, nudging the leader out of the racing groove, scooting underneath to snatch the lead for the first time all night. Witty would return the favour with a bump of his own entering the final turn, though it would not be enough to unseat Watson, who would capture his first feature victory of the 2010 season. Completing the top-5 would be Witty, Tony “The Gun” Tiemersma, Dwayne Baker and “The Professional” Rob Poole.
“I didn’t really notice too much of a difference in terms of how you have to drive the car, to be honest” confessed Watson when asked to compare the old configuration to the way Sunset is presently. “It’s real good to come back. Those last couple laps were crazy. I knew Jason was fast and that was just good racing getting by him”. When the topic of plans for the full 2010 season arose, Watson was non-committal, but did assure the Sunset faithful that he would return to Sunset the following weekend for the season opener for the OSCAAR Super Late Models, hinting that he will possibly return with his Limited Late Model to follow up on his opening night success.
After clearing post-race technical inspection, Witty was pleased with his runner-up finish and offered no ill will towards Watson for the late-race bump and run. “That was a heartbreaker for sure, man. But it was alot of fun. Just one of those racing deals, one of those fun racing deals” smiled the likeable Queensville, ON native. “There’s definitely no hard feelings towards Brandon. After the bump in turn 1, we were both a little squirrely and it was anyone’s race. This gives us alot to build on, and we’re real confident heading into the rest of the season”.
When asked how he was able to get an understanding for the new configuration without the steep learning curve that has affected some of the track’s most prominent drivers, Witty was quick to shrug it off, admitting “It’s just half luck and half experience to be able to adjust. But we’re definitely happy with it”.
QUICK RESULTS
MINI STOCKS
HEAT 1: Warren Paxton Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 2: Terry Clodd Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 3: Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
HEAT 4: Warren Paxton Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 5: Mike Smith Port Elgin, ON
HEAT 6: Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
B MAIN: Ryan Eberschlag Penetanguishene, ON
A MAIN:
1) Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
2) Terry Clodd Holland Landing, ON
3) Rob Krystal Holland Landing, ON
SUPER STOCKS
HEAT 1: Kyle “Wheely” Donaldson Queensville, ON
HEAT 2: “The Deuce” Dave Doucette Angus, ON
HEAT 3: Kyle “Wheely” Donaldson Queensville, ON
HEAT 4: “The Deuce” Dave Doucette Angus, ON
A MAIN:
1) Kyle “Wheely: Donaldson Queensville, ON
2) Jason Elliott Angus, ON
3) Mark Adams Burlington, ON
LIMITED LATE MODELS
HEAT 1: Jason “Bam Bam” Witty Queensville, ON
HEAT 2: Stompin’ Tom Walters Bradford, ON
HEAT 3: Jason “Bam Bam” Witty Queensville, ON
HEAT 4: Tony “The Gun” Tiemersma Newmarket, ON
A MAIN:
1) Brandon Watson Stayner, ON
2) Jason “Bam Bam” Witty Queensville, ON
3) Tony “The Gun” Tiemersma Newmarket, ON
LEFTOVERS
-Opening night was not without mechanical misfortune for some. Marshall Pender (Mini Stock), Dave Case (Super Stock), Ryan Semple (Super Stock) and Kyle Baker (Ltd. Late Model) all experienced difficulty in practice and were not able to compete on opening night.
-Former Sunset Speedway Ltd. Late Model title contender “The Real Deal” Jeff Walt announced his return on Saturday night. The Hawkestone, ON product will likely have his new ride ready for Sunset’s grand opening on May 22nd.
-2008 Sunset Speedway Ltd Late Model champion “Mr. Excitement” Chris Morrow announced he will make his OSCAAR Super Late Model debut on May 23rd for car owner John Mombourquette.
By Spencer Lewis
Brandon Watson’s name is often brought up when the topic of up-and-coming prospects is brought up amongst insiders and fans. After all, the 17-year old has made winning Late Model – and Limited Late Model – features his business for the past 2 seasons. Though on Saturday night, Watson ensured his name would be mentioned by insiders and fans for a different reason, as the Stayner, ON native etched his name into the record books as the first CGC Sheetrock Limited Late Model pilot to claim a feature victory at the new Sunset Speedway.
The night’s feature action got underway with a 25-lap A Main for the Owens Corning Mini Stocks. The distinction of top qualifier went to 2009 Rookie of the Year Warren Paxton (No. 33 CB Services of Newmarket/JF Kitching & Son Honda), though it was defending track champion Doug Butler (No. 10 South Barrie Collision/RSA Auto Parts Nissan) who would assume the lead early on.
Butler would carry the lead before being slowed behind a lapped car, providing an opening for former Sauble Speedway Mini Stock champion (now Sunset Speedway full-timer) Mike ‘Speedy’ Smith (No. 06 speedysmith.com Dodge) who would pace Butler by up to 2 car lengths until he was struck down by a right front flat tire, forcing his retirement on lap 22 – only 3 laps from victory.
On the ensuing restart, Butler would open up a 3 car length on eventual runner-up Terry Clodd (No. 34 shipcanada.ca/Barrie Tire Shaving Honda) to capture the victory, completing his Night 1 hat trick in the process.
Afterwards, Butler was quick to admit that, although the track had undergone some serious changes, his winning ride was still very much the same. “This is the same car from last year, I made it a little safer for the new configuration, but performance-wise it’s the exact same.” When asked about his mid-race battle with Smith, Butler added “I’ve raced [Mike] at every other track in the province, and I know he pushes his car just as hard as I push mine. I definitely don’t think either one of us could have pushed any harder tonight though, that was alot of fun.”
Before retiring to tech lane, Butler would make his 2010 intentions clear, “I’m looking for the ultimate follow up to a championship season, I want nothing more than to defend my title”.
The Tim-Br Mart Super Stock division would take to the track next, with a 30-lap affair that looked to be a hotly contested affair between the 2 top qualifiers from the evening’s heat races – former Sunset Speedway Invitational victor “The Deuce” Dave Doucette (No. 44 ATV Landscaping/Xtreme Auto Machine Chrysler) and 2009 Kawartha Speedway Thunder Car Champion Kyle “Wheely” Donaldson (No. 53 Planet Recovery/Custom Steering Chevrolet).
Defending track champion Flyin’ Frank Davey (No. 49 Barney’s Auto Electric/Bradford Print Shoppe Chevrolet) would lead early on, before handing the top spot to rising star Jason Elliott (No. 22 Woodward Service Center/Simcoe Auto Recyclers Chevrolet) just before the race’s midway mark.
A pair of cautions would mar the otherwise fluid event – both scored at lap 18 – as Doucette and Davey would tangle with slower cars in separate incidents, resulting in a major loss of track position and a major injection of sheet metal damage for both of the early night favourites.
As Davey and Doucette were struggling, Donaldson made his entrance into the spotlight, squeaking past Elliott to take the race lead off of turn-2, setting off a 5-star battle between the pair that would bring the appreciative crowd to their feet on more than one occasion. The battling leaders would break away from the rest of the pack, as Elliott looked for grip on the high-side of the race track while “Wheely” would run a combination of different lines to find the bite necessary to hold on to the lead.
As the checkered flag flew, it was Donaldson leading Elliott, Mark Adams (No. 51 Rankin’s Auto/Racin’ Stuff Chevrolet), rookie “Doomsday” Danny Archibald (Steve’s Towing/Weld It Creations Chevrolet) and Paul Maltese (No. 28 Presto Appliance & Repair Chevrolet) across the stripe.
In victory lane, the former Sunset Speedway champion was quick to praise his adversary as well as the new facility. “Wow, what can I say, this is just a phenomenal place to race” gushed “Wheely” upon exiting his car. “That was a great battle, Jason’s clearly a talented guy, and I’m sure this whole group is going to get alot tougher to beat as the season goes”. Donaldson would go on to thank his sponsors and crew, before heading to post-race technical inspection.
As the Super Stocks cleared the track, the stars and cars of the CGC Sheetrock Limited Late Model division took their place under the lights, prepared to send the crowd home happy with a scheduled 30-lap A Main.
While the field entered turn-4 for the green flag, all eyes were on young veteran Jason “Bam Bam” Witty who, after winning both of his qualifying heat races, was looking to seal his first ever hat trick in his 11-year racing career.
Multi-time Sunset Speedway track champion “Mr. Excitement” Chris Morrow (No. 11 Morrow Electric/Douglas Ford Collision Centre Chevrolet) would lead early on, appearing dominant for the first 15 laps of the feature. As the field picked up the crossed flags – indicating the event’s halfway point – Witty began to pressure Morrow, searching high and low for a way past the 2008 track champion.
As the field slowed for a lap 19 caution, Morrow’s car inexplicably shut off on the backstretch, requiring the aid of Sunset’s official wrecker service Graves Towing to simply make his way to pit road, unceremoniously ending his evening after leading from the opening circuit.
After Morrow’s departure, Witty (No. 19 Larue’s Haulage/Matco Tools Chevrolet) assumed the lead on the ensuing restart, and would break away from the pack with defending Autumn Colours Classic champion Brandon Watson (No. 9 OK Tire/Huronia Landscaping Chevrolet) in hot pursuit.
The chess match played out quite calmly until the final 3 laps of the race, when Witty’s left side tires would catch the curb in turn-4, slowing his momentum and allowing the hard-charging Watson to pull directly to the back bumper of the leading number 19.
Things would go from interesting to compelling on the next lap, as entering turn 1, Watson would bump the rear-end of Witty’s Chevrolet, nudging the leader out of the racing groove, scooting underneath to snatch the lead for the first time all night. Witty would return the favour with a bump of his own entering the final turn, though it would not be enough to unseat Watson, who would capture his first feature victory of the 2010 season. Completing the top-5 would be Witty, Tony “The Gun” Tiemersma, Dwayne Baker and “The Professional” Rob Poole.
“I didn’t really notice too much of a difference in terms of how you have to drive the car, to be honest” confessed Watson when asked to compare the old configuration to the way Sunset is presently. “It’s real good to come back. Those last couple laps were crazy. I knew Jason was fast and that was just good racing getting by him”. When the topic of plans for the full 2010 season arose, Watson was non-committal, but did assure the Sunset faithful that he would return to Sunset the following weekend for the season opener for the OSCAAR Super Late Models, hinting that he will possibly return with his Limited Late Model to follow up on his opening night success.
After clearing post-race technical inspection, Witty was pleased with his runner-up finish and offered no ill will towards Watson for the late-race bump and run. “That was a heartbreaker for sure, man. But it was alot of fun. Just one of those racing deals, one of those fun racing deals” smiled the likeable Queensville, ON native. “There’s definitely no hard feelings towards Brandon. After the bump in turn 1, we were both a little squirrely and it was anyone’s race. This gives us alot to build on, and we’re real confident heading into the rest of the season”.
When asked how he was able to get an understanding for the new configuration without the steep learning curve that has affected some of the track’s most prominent drivers, Witty was quick to shrug it off, admitting “It’s just half luck and half experience to be able to adjust. But we’re definitely happy with it”.
QUICK RESULTS
MINI STOCKS
HEAT 1: Warren Paxton Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 2: Terry Clodd Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 3: Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
HEAT 4: Warren Paxton Holland Landing, ON
HEAT 5: Mike Smith Port Elgin, ON
HEAT 6: Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
B MAIN: Ryan Eberschlag Penetanguishene, ON
A MAIN:
1) Doug Butler New Lowell, ON
2) Terry Clodd Holland Landing, ON
3) Rob Krystal Holland Landing, ON
SUPER STOCKS
HEAT 1: Kyle “Wheely” Donaldson Queensville, ON
HEAT 2: “The Deuce” Dave Doucette Angus, ON
HEAT 3: Kyle “Wheely” Donaldson Queensville, ON
HEAT 4: “The Deuce” Dave Doucette Angus, ON
A MAIN:
1) Kyle “Wheely: Donaldson Queensville, ON
2) Jason Elliott Angus, ON
3) Mark Adams Burlington, ON
LIMITED LATE MODELS
HEAT 1: Jason “Bam Bam” Witty Queensville, ON
HEAT 2: Stompin’ Tom Walters Bradford, ON
HEAT 3: Jason “Bam Bam” Witty Queensville, ON
HEAT 4: Tony “The Gun” Tiemersma Newmarket, ON
A MAIN:
1) Brandon Watson Stayner, ON
2) Jason “Bam Bam” Witty Queensville, ON
3) Tony “The Gun” Tiemersma Newmarket, ON
LEFTOVERS
-Opening night was not without mechanical misfortune for some. Marshall Pender (Mini Stock), Dave Case (Super Stock), Ryan Semple (Super Stock) and Kyle Baker (Ltd. Late Model) all experienced difficulty in practice and were not able to compete on opening night.
-Former Sunset Speedway Ltd. Late Model title contender “The Real Deal” Jeff Walt announced his return on Saturday night. The Hawkestone, ON product will likely have his new ride ready for Sunset’s grand opening on May 22nd.
-2008 Sunset Speedway Ltd Late Model champion “Mr. Excitement” Chris Morrow announced he will make his OSCAAR Super Late Model debut on May 23rd for car owner John Mombourquette.
VIDEO: Sunset Speedway opening night - May 15, 2010
A short clip from the first night of Late Model racing action at the new Sunset Speedway, just south of Barrie, Ontario. The track featured side-by-side racing action in all classes, all night long. This coming weekend is the official Grand Opening featuring racing on Saturday and Sunday at Sunset. See www.sunsetspeedway.ca for more info.
UPDATE: Here's a clip from turn 2 of some Mini Stock heat race action.
UPDATE: Here's a clip from turn 2 of some Mini Stock heat race action.
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