2008 Charlie Brown Articles

May 10, 2008

RAIN WASHES OUT ACTION AT DELAWARE INTERNATIONAL

By Charlie Brown, Delmar, DE – An early morning downpour added to already wet grounds from a previous day or rain forcing the Delaware International Speedway to cancel Saturday night’s racing program which was to include the United Racing Company Sprints.

Action continues this Saturday night with the NAPA Big Block Modifieds, Super Late Models, AC Delco Crate Modifieds, Crate Models and Modified Lites plus the Vintage Stock Cars. Gates open at 5 p.m. with hot laps at 7 p.m.

The following week, May 24th will be the Unity Tribute to Kyle Dixon. On May 24th, anyone with a picture I.D. with a Delmar, Delaware or a Delmar, Maryland address will be admitted to the track for free. The Delmar Middle & Senior High School Band will play the National Anthem and other selections during the night and there will be a video tribute to Kyle during intermission. The Slide for 5 division will join the five weekly divisions that night with the winner receiving $133 which was the number of Dixon’s Slide for 5 car.

Thursday night, May 29th the World of Outlaws will make a stop to play on the tacky half-mile clay oval. Ticket information is available on the track web site.

For more information contact the speedway office at 302-875-1911 or go online at www.delawareracing.com.

April 28, 2008

UNITY TRIBUTE FOR KYLE DIXON NIGHT AT DELAWARE INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY

Delmar, DE – The community of Delmar in which Kyle Dixon lived, straddles the Mason Dixon Line separating Delaware and Maryland and is often called the “town too big for one state.” Such was the spirit of Dixon who tragically lost his life in January from injuries sustained in an auto accident. The impact his memory had was too big to be celebrated by just the racing community so on May 24th the Delaware International Speedway and the community of Delmar will join together for a Unity Tribute to Kyle Dixon Night.

At only 16 years of age, Dixon seemed to touch the lives of everyone he came in contact with. Off the track he was a junior at the Delmar Middle & Senior High School, an honor student, a wrestler and an avid soccer player on the school’s varsity team. On the track, he had been competitor at the U.S. 13 Kart track since age eight. Last year he started competing in the Slide for 5 division and had been a crew member for Brad Trice who won the 2007 AC Delco Modified Championship. With the help of former driver and long time friend and mentor, David Trice, Dixon had planned on running in the AC Delco class in 2008.

On May 24th, anyone with a picture I.D. with a Delmar, Delaware or a Delmar, Maryland address will be admitted to the track for free. The Delmar Middle & Senior High School Band will play the National Anthem and other selections during the night and there will be a video tribute during intermission. The Slide for 5 division will join the five weekly divisions that night with the winner receiving $133 which was the number of Dixon’s Slide for 5 car.

For more information contact the speedway office at 302-875-1911 or go online at www.delawareracing.com.

May 3, 2008

RICKY ELLIOTT STAY HOME AND WINS IN DELAWARE LATE MODELS

By Charlie Brown, Delmar, DE – Seaford, Delaware’s Ricky Elliott spends most of his time on the rode as a full-time racer in the Charles Jarvis Super Late Model. Saturday night, Elliott decided to stay home and race at his home track, Delaware International. The break from the road turned out well as he captured the 20-lap main.

Heats were won by Kevin Scott, Jr. and David Hill. Early in the feature, rookie, Kevin Scott, Jr. became the driver to beat for the second week in a row. Veteran Hal Browning held the second spot until lap three when Elliott, who had started in tenth, took over the runner-up spot.

Scott, Jr. would not give up the lead easily as Elliott gave pursuit until lap eight before taking over the lead. Clearly the quickest car in the field, Elliott pulled away as Scott remained solidly in second. Ray Davis, Jr. who has been very consistent this season took over third and Browning held off David Pettyjohn in for fourth.

The second half of the race stayed green and Elliott was on cruise control the rest of the distance taking the win in the Seaside Builders/Starrette Trucking/Rocket. “We tried some new stuff tonight that we don’t get to try when we are out on the road racing and it is amazing how well it worked,” said Elliott. “Kevin Scott did a good job. He is one of my customers.”

Scott, Jr. who is just 16 years old, turned in a person best in second with Davis, Jr. third. Fourth went to Browning and David Pettyjohn rounded out the top five.

Justin Breeding who just celebrated his 16th birthday last week, set fast time in the Crate Model division. In their 15-lap feature, rookie Chris Jestice held off the persistent challenges of former champion, Joe Warren to lead the first six laps. Eric Vent made a bold move on the outside in the third turn to take the lead on lap seven and was followed at the halfway sign by Jestice, Warren, Mike Williams and Barry Beauchamp.

Jestice would chase Vent for the rest of the distance but Vent, in the Clark’s Pools/Snookie’s Speed Parts/Lazer would not be denied his first win of the year. Jestice made no mistake to take second with Warren finishing in third. Fourth went to Mike Williams with Beauchamp rounding out the top five.

The Little Lincoln Vintage Cars made their first appearance of the season. Jamie Wagner set the pace for the first half of the race with Mel Joseph, Jr. quickly moving from ninth to challenge in second. Steering problems dropped Wagner from the field just as Joseph moved into the lead.

A caution with two laps to go put Bill Brittingham on the Joseph’s back bumper but Joseph held off the challenge to take the win. Brittingham finished in second with John Stevenson third. Fourth went to Pat McNeil and Mark Cashdan rounded out the top five. In victory lane, Joseph dedicated the win to former racer, Donald “Duck” Robinson who passed away the week prior.

RESULTS: 20-Lap Super Late Model Feature: 1. RICKY ELLIOTT; 2. Kevin Scott, Jr.; 3. Ray Davis Jr; 4. Hal Browning; 5. David Pettyjohn; 6. Donald Lingo Jr; 7. Richard Jarvis Jr; 8. Jon Callaway; 9. Rick Whaley; 10. David Hill; 11. Staci Warrington; 12. Ross Robinson; 13. Bob Geiger; 14. Trent Collins; 15. Austin Hubbard; 15. Ed Drury; 16. Kerry King; DNS: Derrik Hill; Brian Driver.

15-Lap Crate Model Feature: 1. ERIC VENT; 2. Chris Jestice; 3. Joe Warren; 4.

Mike Williams; 5. Barry Beauchamp; 6. Sparky White; 7. Mike Wharton; 8. Travis Justice; 9. Mike Wilson; 10. Kelly Putz; 11. Mike Parsons; 12. Skip Syester; 13. Jeff Patilla; 14. Bunky White; 15. Gary Manos; 16. Jack Mullins; 17. Nick Davis; 18. Tyler Reed; 19. Justin Breeding; 20. Herb Tunis; 21. Gus Economides; 22. Josh Millman; 23. Jeff Swartz; DNS: John Imler; Punky Chism

10-Lap Little Lincoln Feature: 1. MEL JOSEPH, JR.; 2. Bill Brittingham; 3. John Stevenson; 4. Pat McNeil; 5. Mark Cashdan; 6. Emory West; 7. Donald Robinson, Jr.; 8. Richard Zack; 9. Chris Loveland; 10. Steven Baker; 11. Jamie Wagner; DNS: Tony Daisey; Matt Johnson; Duke Walsen.

May 3, 2008

MATT JESTER ENDS MILLMAN’S STREAK AT THREE IN DELAWARE MODIFIEDS

By Charlie Brown, Delmar, DE – Matt Jester likes seeing different winners in the NAPA Big Block Modified division especially when one of those winners is him. Saturday night, Jester hovered in the top five until late in the 25-lap feature before making a charge for the win and ending Tim Millman’s streak at three at the Delaware International Speedway.

George Richardson controlled the first three laps after starting on the pole before a determined Ricky Johnson moved on top. Donnie Radd followed into second with Tim Millman riding in third. Jamie Mills marched through the top five taking fourth.

With Johnson comfortably out front, first Millman, then Mills gave chase from second. At the halfway sign the top five were Johnson, Mills, Jester, Millman and Radd. Mills became the third different leader on the next circuit. The caution was out one lap later as Glenn Richards and Norman Short came to a stop. Under the yellow, the leader Mills headed to the pits with engine problems.

Johnson was now back on top with Jester breathing down his neck. Jester used the quick outside groove to take the lead on lap 17. The race remained green the rest of the distance and Jester, in the Clearview Farms/Smith Concrete/Teo crossed under the checkered for his first win of the season.

“The car was definitely tight tonight,” said Jester. “I had to wait until we opened up a little bit so that I could get on the gas quick. It was definitely good to end that streak.”

Johnson ended a good run in second with Millman third. Fourth went to H.J. Bunting and Robert Dutton secured a solid top five. Heats were won by Bunting and Jester.

A record field of 31 AC Delco Modifieds were on hand with Jerry Carter setting fast time in qualifying and Justin Griffith winning the consolation. In the 15-lap feature event, Bobby Watkins led the first two laps before Michael White moved on top.

By the halfway sign Watkins was still pressuring White with Joe Tracey, Herman Powell, and John Curtis in the top five. Tracey and Watkins went three wide for the lead on lap 14 but White held off the challenge to take the win in the J&M Roofing/Teo. Watkins finished in second with Tracey third. Fourth went to Powell and Curtis held off Brad Trice to finish in fifth.

Steve White blitzed from his fifth starting spot to lead lap one of the Modified Lite 10-lap feature. Once out front, White moved to the fast high line around the track and was never seriously challenged. Brandon Dennis and Aaron Bada battled for second with Dennis taking the spot. Fast qualifier, Tim White worked his way up from ninth and was running in third with one to go.

Steve White, in the R&F Auto/Woods Contracting/Northeast Modified Lite picked up his third checkered of the season with Dennis finishing in second. Tim White notched third at the checkered with Bada and Curt Miles, Jr. rounding out the top five.

This Saturday night the United Racing Company Sprints make their second stop if the season along with the five weekly divisions. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. with hot laps at 7 p.m.

RESULTS: 25-lap NAPA Big Block Modified Feature: 1. MATT JESTER; 2. Ricky Johnson; 3. Tim Millman; 4. HJ Bunting; 5. Robert Dutton; 6. Scott Van Gorder; 7. Howard ONeal; 8. Dana Walker;; 9. Judd Mills; 10. Jordan Watson; 11. Dale Hawkins; 12. Glenn Reed; 13. Craig Ott; 14. George Richardson; 15. Chad Clark; 16. Jamie Mills; 17. Donny Radd; 18. Norman Short; 19. Glenn Richards; 20. Joseph Watson; 21. Steve Downs II; DNS: Jeff Brown.

15-lap AC Delco TSS Feature: 1. MICHAEL WHITE; 2. Bobby Watkins; 3. Joseph Tracy; 4. Herman Powell; 5. John Curtis; 6. Brad Trice; 7. Tim Trimble; 8. Matt Hawkins; 9. John Wynn; 10. Justin Griffith; 11. Adam Jarrell; 12. Brandon Perdue; 13. Westley Smith; 14. Grant Ireland; 15. Rodney Cordrey; 16. Scott Baker; 17. Casey Lynch; 18. Scott Calhoun; 19. Jason Bishop; 20. Dan Reidy; 21. Jerry Carter; 22. Chris Hitchens; 23. Brian Robbins; 24. Randy Hill Jr; 25. Herbie Hempel; 26. Danny Smack; 27. Bubba Sears;

10-Lap Modified Lite Feature: 1. STEVE WHITE; 2. Brandon Dennis; 3. Tim White; 4. Aaron Bada; 5. Curt Miles, Jr. ; 6. Rick Wheatley; 7. Kevin McKinney;8. Kirk Miles; 9. Alan Passwaters; 10. Jimmy Wills; 11. T.J. Williams; 12. James McKinney; 13. Cody Belote; 14. Chad Passwaters; 15. Shawn Weber.

April 26, 2008

ROSS ROBINSON GETS 1ST CAREER WIN IN DELAWARE LATE MODELS

By Charlie Brown, Delmar, DE – Ross Robinson was extremely successful in the Street Modifieds at Delaware International two seasons ago but moved to the highly competitive Late Model division early in the season last year. On Saturday night in only his second season in the class, Robinson held off Rick Whaley by a bumper to record his first win in the 20-lap William J. Cathell Memorial.

Sixteen year old rookie, Kevin Scott looked like he was a seasoned veteran as he easily led the field at the start of the Super Late Model main. Robinson started in the second spot and gave chase with David Pettyjohn challenging in third. Donald Lingo was on the move but his night ended in a cloud of smoke as he came to a stop on lap seven bringing out the yellow.

Scott again took off in the lead on the restart with Robison following in second. By halfway Rick Whaley had worked by Pettyjohn for third and David Hill held down fifth. Scott looked like he might be headed for his first win until the car suddenly slowed on lap 14 bringing out the caution once again.

Robinson was now on top but he could not shake Whaley. Whaley made a bid on lap 17 but Robinson once again pulled away. On the final turn, Whaley squeezed inside of Robinson but Ross was not shaken as the two raced clean to the finish with Robinson, in the Blue Flame Gas Service/Grotto Pizza/Warrior taking the win by just .13 seconds over Whaley. Pettyjohn finished in the third spot with Hill fourth and Ray Davis, Jr. fifth.

Robinson celebrated by pulling up to the flag stand and climbing on top of his car to salute the cheering crowd. Heats were won by Pettyjohn and Bob Geiger.

In the 15-lap Crate Model feature, Jack Mullins wasted no time moving from his outside second row starting spot to take the lead from Mike Williams on lap one. Barry Beauchamp looked strong running in third and two time winner, Herb Tunis drove by Eric Vent for fourth.

Williams came to a stop on lap four ending his drive and bringing out the yellow. Tunis grabbed second on the restart but could not close on Mullins. Beauchamp regrouped and took second back from Tunis. The yellow came out for a final time with just one lap to go.

Mullins had no problem driving away from the field on the restart as the defending champion went on to his first win of the year in the Murray Motors/Bi-Rite Auto/Warrior. Beauchamp finished a well earned second with Tunis third. Fourth went to Vent and Joe Warren came on to finish in the fifth spot. Beauchamp set fast time in qualifying.

The Slide for 5 cars rounded out the program. Dylan Betts led the first lap but slowed with a flat front tire. Wayne White, Jr. in his big station wagon moved on top and dodged all of the obstacles for the rest of the distance for his first win. Brian Nailor took second on the final lap and Layton Pritchett finished in third. Betts held on to finish in the fourth spot and Tyler White came from 18th to finish in fifth.

RESULTS 20-Lap Super Late Model Feature: 1. ROSS ROBINSON; 2. Rick Whaley; 3. David Pettyjohn; 4. David Hill; 5. Ray Davis Jr; 6. Kerry King; 7. Bob Geiger; 8. Jon Callaway; 9. Rob Massey; 10. Staci Warrington; 11. Brian Driver; 12. Roland Mann; 13. Kevin Scott; 14. Donald Lingo Jr; 15. Trent Collins; 16. Austin ;Hubbard; 17. Hal Browning.

15-Lap Crate Model Feature: 1. JACK MULLINS; 2.Barry Beauchamp; 3. Herb Tunis; 4. Eric Vent; 5. Joe Warren; 6. Chris Jestice; 7. Tyler Reed; 8. Punky Chism; 9.

Kelly Putz; 10. Justin Breeding; 11. Mike Williams; 12. Mike Wilson; 13. Mark Williams; 14. Mike Parsons; 15. Josh Millman; 16. Skip Syester’ 17. Jeff Swartz; 18. Bunky White; 19. Nick Davis.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 26, 2008

MILLMAN STILL PERFECT IN DELAWARE NAPA MODIFIEDS

By Charlie Brown, Delmar, DE – When Tim Millman decided to drive for Jake Marine for the 2008 season he could not have dreamed that three weeks into the season he would be undefeated. In Saturday night’s 25-lap William J. Cathell Memorial NAPA Big Block Modified feature, Millman started in ninth and went from fourth to first in a lap and a half to lead lap seven then go on to his third straight win.

Steve Downs worked by George Richardson to lead lap one of the feature. H.J. Bunting followed into the second spot with Matt Jester riding in third. Millman was running in fifth by lap two and one lap later moved by Judd Mills for fourth.

Bunting slid high and Millman went by both Bunting and Jester to take second on lap six. One lap later he moved by Downs to take the lead as Jester followed into second. The first yellow was out on lap eight as Robert Dutton slowed with a flat. At the halfway sign the top five were Millman, Jester, Bunting, Judd Mills, and Downs.

Jamie Mills was on the move and cracked the top five just as the final yellow flew on lap 16 as Downs came to a stop just off turn two. Mills got by Bunting for third on the restart and Ricky Johnson entered the top five.

Jester made a bid for the lead on lap 23 but Millman was able to hold off the challenge and pull away on the final two laps for his third consecutive win in the J&M Roofing/Finger Lakes/Teo. Jester finished in the second spot with Jamie Mills third. Fourth went to Bunting and Johnson rounded out the top five. Heats were won by Jamie Mills and Downs.

In the 15-lap AC Delco Modified feature, Tim Trimble quickly took command from his pole starting position. Joseph Tracey held the second spot with Brad Trice running in third. Trice climbed to second but on lap seven, Bobby Watkins got over his front wheel in a battle for the position. Trice spun across the back straight and collected Chris Hitchens. There were no injuries but both drivers were done for the night.

Watkins recovered to hold on to second but Trimble would make no mistakes as he piloted the Courtland Manor/Covey’s Car Care/Troyer to his first win of the season. Watkins finished in the second spot with last week’s winner, Michael White third. Fourth went to Tracey with Adam Jarrell fifth. White set fast time in qualifying. The consolation was won by Rodney Cordrey.

Defending point champion, Steve White was in top form in the 10-lap Modified Lite feature. White took off like a rocket at the drop of the green moving from his seventh starting spot to take the lead from Curt Miles, Jr. on lap one.

Once out front White moved to the very top of the speedway and ran the edge the rest of the distance. He was able to pull away from Brandon Dennis who took second on lap three. It was the second with for White this season driving the R&F Auto/Wood’s Contracting/Northeast Modified Lite Lightning. Dennis finished in the second spot with Miles, Jr. third. Fourth went to Ricky Wheatley and Kevin McKinney rounded out the top five. White set fast time in qualifying.

This Saturday night the Little Lincoln Vintage Cars will join the five weekly divisions. Gates open at 5 p.m. with hot laps at 7 p.m.

RESULTS: 25-Lap NAPA Big Block Modified Feature: 1. TIM MILLMAN; 2. Matt Jester; 3. Jamie Mills; 4. HJ Bunting; 5. Ricky Johnson; 6. Howard O’Neal; 7. Judd Mills; 8. Glenn Richards; 9. Scott Van Gorder; 10. Joseph Watson; 11. Craig Ott; 12. Chad Clark; 13. Dana Walker; 14. George Richardson; 15. Steve Downs II; 16. Dale ;Hawkins; 17. Donny Radd; 18. Robert Dutton; 19. Norman Short; DNS: Jordan Watson; Jeff Brown.

15-Lap AC Delco Modified Feature: 1. TIM TRIMBLE; 2. Bobby Watkins; 3. Michael White; 4. Joseph Tracy; 5. Adam Jarrell; 6. Herman Powell; 7. Jerry Carter; 8. Scott Calhoun; 9. Rodney Cordrey; 10. Westley Smith; 11. John Wynn; 12. Justin Griffith; 13. Randy Hill Jr; 14. John Curtis; 15. Scott Baker; 16. Brandon Perdue; 17. Grant Ireland; 18. Casey Lynch; 19. Bryan Applegate; 20. Herbie Hempel; 21. Brian Robbins; 22. Brad Trice; 23. Chris Hitchens; 24. Bubba Sears; 25. Matt Hawkins; 26. Gary Blessing; DNS: Jason Bishop.

10-Lap Modified Lite Feature: 1. STEVE WHITE; 2. Brandon Dennis; 3. Curt Miles Jr; 4. Rick Wheatley; 5. Kevin McKinney; 6. James McKinney; 7. Kyle Fuller; 8. Allan Passwaters; 9. Shawn Weber; 10. Chad Passwaters; 11. TJ Williams; 12. Kirk Miles; 13. Aaron Bada; 14. Cody Belote.

April 19, 2008

RICHARD JARVIS, JR. DOUBLES IN DELAWARE LATE MODELS

By Charlie Brown, Delmar, DE – Richard Jarvis, Jr. started off the 2008 season in perfect form as he won his second consecutive 20-lap Super Late Model feature at the Delaware International Speedway. His second win however did not come nearly as easy as his opening night wire to wire win. Jarvis started in seventh and finally caught race-long leader, Bob Geiger on lap 16 and taking the lead with just three laps to go.

Veteran Bob Geiger started on the pole and looked like he had hit the setup perfect as he paced the field. Rick Whaley chased from second about four car lengths back and Hal Browning ran in third. The first and only yellow flew on lap six when Jon Callaway got some help and spun in turn three and Staci Warrington clipped his spinning car.

On the restart Jarvis bolted into third with David Pettyjohn in tow. At the halfway sign the top five were Geiger, Whaley, Jarvis, Pettyjohn and Browning.

With Geiger comfortably out front, Jarvis went to work on Whaley, taking second with five laps to go. It only took one lap for Jarvis to close the advantage that Geiger had built and one more lap to take the lead. Jarvis went on to post his second win in as many nights in the Mid-Coastal Siding/Rocket. Geiger finished out an outstanding run in second with Whaley third. David Pettyjohn finished in the fourth spot and Browning finished in fifth. Heats were won by Geiger and Whaley.

“I’m really proud of our crew,” said Jarvis. “We ended up fifth in the heat but we didn’t give up. The guys just really went to work and we put all of our heads together and came up with something and learned a lot tonight.”

In the companion Crate Model 15-lap feature, Herb Tunis also made it two straight as he worked his way from his sixth starting spot to take the lead with five to go. Mike Williams led the first four laps. The second and final yellow came out on lap five just and Eric Vent took the top spot.

At the halfway sign Vent was followed by Williams, Tunis, Mike Wilson and Jack Mullins in the top five. Tunis took second on lap nine and smoothly worked his way by Vent to lead lap 10.

Tunis would make no mistakes from that point on as he drove to his second win in the GMR/Tink’s Fab Shop/Rocket. Vent finished in second with Wilson third. Joe Warren made a late race charge to finish in fourth and Tyler Reed rounded out the top five. Fast time in qualifying was set by Warren.

RESULTS: 20-Lap Late Model Feature: 1. RICHARD JARVIS, JR.; 2.Bob Geiger; 3. Rick Whaley; 4. David Pettyjohn; 5. Hal Browning; 6. Ray Davis Jr; 7. Ross Robinson; 8. Donald Lingo Jr; 9. David Hill; 10. Rob Massey; 11. Kerry King; 12.
Jon Callaway; 13. Kevin Scott; 14. Staci Warrington; 15. Trent Collins; 16. Brian Driver; 17. Derrike Hill; 18. Ed Drury.

15-Lap Crate Model Feature: 1. HERB TUNIS; 2. Eric Vent; 3. Mike Wilson; 4. Joe Warren; 5. Tyler Reed; 6. Jack Mullins; 7. Mike Williams; 8. Chris Justice; 9. Barry Beauchamp; 10. Bunky White; 11. Gus Economides; 12. Mike Parsons; 13. Mike Wharton; 14. Kelly Putz; 15. Punky Chism; 16. Mark Williams; 17. Gary Manos; 18. Josh Millman; 19. John Imler; 20. Justin Breeding; 21. Skip Syester; 22. Nick Davis

April 19, 2008

MILLMAN MAKES IT TWO STRAIGHT IN NAPA BIG BLOCKS AT DIS

By Charlie Brown, Delmar, DE – Tim Millman made it look easy in last week’s opener at the Delaware International Speedway when he started on the pole and won the 25-lap NAPA Big Block Modified feature. On Saturday night, Millman started mid-pack in the eighth starting spot but the result was the same as he took the lead on lap seven and went on to his second straight victory.

Rookie George Richardson started on the pole and survived three cautions to lead the first three laps. Jamie Mills, driving the Keith Coulbourne No. 55 took the point on lap four as Millman shot from fourth to second. It only took two more laps for Millman to catch Mills and take the lead.

The race stayed green until lap 12 when Steve Downs came to a stop. The field restarted on the halfway sign with Millman pulling away followed by Jamie Mills, H.J. Bunting, Judd Mills, and Glenn Richards in the top five.

As Millman remained comfortably out front Bunting began to pressure Jamie Mills for second. Bunting made a move on the outside of turn four on lap 17 but nearly spun. He was able to recover and hold on to third. On final yellow would fly on lap 21 putting the field on Millman’s back bumper but that was all they would see as Millman again pulled away in the Jake Marine/J&M Roofing/Teo. Jamie Mills finished in the second spot with Bunting third. Judd Mills turning in a nice performance finishing in fourth and Donnie Radd came on strong in the closing laps to finish in fifth.

“This car is real fast right now,” grinned Millman. “I’m just the lucky one getting to drive it! They had the car set up perfect and it makes it easy for me to drive it.” Heats were captured by Bunting and Jamie Mills.

Jake Marine’s stable of cars continued to have a winning night as Michael White held off the race long challenges of Tim Trimble to win the 15-lap AC Delco Modified feature. White started on the pole as Trimble, Brad Trice and Joseph Tracy battle for second.

Trimble hauled in second and was quicker getting into the turn but White would pull back out front on the straights. At the halfway point the top five were White, Trimble, Trice, Tracy and Bobby Watkins (who started back in ninth).

The top five would stay nose to tail for the remaining distance. The final yellow came out with one lap left to go just as Trice had worked into second. White remained picture perfect on the final lap and went on to the win in the J&M Roofing/Teo. Trice finished in the second spot with Trimble third. Watkins ended his charge in fourth and Tracy rounded out the top five. Fast qualifier of the night was Watkins. Casey Lynch won the consolation.

Rick Wheatley had contemplated going home early in the night because he was not feeling up to par. “I’m glad that I stayed,” was his response in victory lane after he held off the persistent challenges of defending point champion, Steve White in the 10-lap Modified Lite main.

Wheatley took off from his pole starting positing with Cody Belote running in second. Kirk Miles took over the second spot until just past the halfway point when Steve White dropped him to third. White immediately began to challenge Wheatley but Wheatley was up for the challenge as he drove under the checkered in his Tink’s Fab Shop No. 14. White finished in the second spot with Miles third. Fourth went to Kevin McKinney who started in tenth and Tim White rounded out the top five. Fast time in qualifying went to McKinney.

This Saturday night will be the William J. Cathell Memorial. Along with the five weekly divisions will be the Slide for 5 cars. Gates open at 5 p.m. with hot laps at 7 p.m.

RESULTS: 25-Lap NAPA Big Block Feature: 1. TIM MILLMAN; 2. Jamie Mills; 3. HJ Bunting; 4. Judd Mills; 5. Donny Radd; 6. Ricky Johnson; 7. Howard O’Neal; 8. Matt Jester; 9. Glenn Richards; 10. George Richardson; 11. Jeff Brown; 12. Joseph Watson; 13. Chad Clark; 14. Robert Dutton; 15. Steve Downs II; 16. Dale Hawkins; 17. Dave ; Simmons; 18. Dana Walker; DNS: Craig Ott.

15-Lap AC Delco Modified Feature: 1. MICHAEL WHITE; 2. Brad Trice; 3. Tim Trimble; 4. Bobby Watkins; 5. Joseph Tracy; 6. Grant Ireland; 7. Randy Hill Jr; 8. Justin Griffith; 9. Herman Powell; 10. Rodney Cordrey; 11. Westley Smith; 12. Casey Lynch; 13. Gary Blessing; 14. Scott Calhoun; 15. Matt Hawkins; 16. Brandon Perdue; 17. John Curtis; 18. Taylor Craik; 19. Jason Bishop; 20. Bryan Applegate; 21. Chris Hitchens; 22. Scott Baker; 23. Herbie Hempel; 24. Jerry Carter; 25. John Wynn; 26. Garrie Bostwick; DNQ: Bubba Sears; Brain Robbins.

10-Lap Modified Lite Feature: 1. RICK WHEATLEY; 2. Steve White; 3. Kirk Miles; 4. Kevin McKinney; 5. Tim White; 6. Brandon Dennis; 7. Aaron Bada; 8. Curt Miles Jr; 9. Cody Belote; 10. Chad Passwaters; 11. TJ Williams; 12. Shawn Weber; 13. Sparky White; 14. Allan Passwaters.

TIM MILLMAN PILOTS NEW RIDE TO OPENER WIN AT DELAWARE INTERNATIONAL

By Charlie Brown, Delmar, DE (4/12/08) – Tim Millman sat out much of last season at the Delaware International Speedway after undergoing back surgery. Saturday night he returned to driving with a new car and new determination as he captured the 25-lap NAPA Big Block Modified feature on opening night.

By virtue of their heat wins, Matt Jester was scheduled to start on the pole with Millman starting second. Jester was late getting out which moved Millman to the point in the Delaware start. Millman would take full advantage of the starting spot as he was never seriously challenged for the entire distance.

Donnie Radd returned to Saturday night racing driving the Jeff Brown No. 9R. Radd held the second spot for the first five circuits before Steve Downs, driving the Bill Wood No. 39W this season took the spot.

Several cautions kept Millman from running away and hiding. At the halfway sign the top five were Millman, Downs, Glenn Richards, Ricky Johnson (who had started in 12th) and Radd.

The final caution would fly on lap 16 as Robert Dutton pulled into the infield and Joe Dekutoski spun to a stop in the second turn. As Millman opened a comfortable lead and Downs ran unchallenged in second, Johnson got by Richards with five to go with Jester following into fourth.

Millman, in the J&M Roofing/Rio Bros. Repair/Teo cruised to the checkered. Downs started to slow in the final turn and Johnson was able to get by to finish in second. Jester finished in the third spot with Downs coasting across in fourth and Jamie Mills coming on strong in the closing laps to finish in fifth.

“I got a call from car owner, Jake Marine a couple of months ago asking me what I was doing this season,” smiled Millman. “He said if I give you a car, motor and trailer, will you drive for me!” A solid field of 22 NAPA Big Blocks were on hand for the opener.

In the 15-lap AC Delco Crate Modified feature, Joe Tracy started on the pole after setting fast time in qualifying. Defending point champion, Brad Trice, driving the
Mitchell’s No. 57 this season, ran wheel to wheel with Tim Trimble for second.

Bobby Watkins started in sixth and was running second by the halfway point behind Tracy with Trimble, Trice, and Herman Powell in the top five. Watkins moved in to challenge with Tracy but on the final lap he pulled to the infield with problems.

Tracy raced unchallenged to the checkered in the Virgil Davis Trucking/Milford Rental Center/Troyer. Trimble drove an excellent race to finish in second with Trice third. Fourth was a career best finish for Herman Powell and Michael White came from tenth to finish in fifth.

Steve White picked up where he left off in the 10-lap Modified Lite feature. Brandon Dennis set fast time in qualifying and led until the halfway point before slipping high in turn four and opening the door for Steve White.

The defending point champion would lead the rest of the distance in the Wood’s Contracting/Durham Racing/Lightning for the win. Dennis finished a close second with Curt Miles, Jr. third. Fourth went to Tim White and Sparky White rounded out the top five.

This Saturday night the United Racing Company Sprint Cars join the five weekly divisions. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. with hot laps at 7 p.m.

RESULTS: 25-Lap NAPA Big Block Modified Feature: 1. TIM MILLMAN; 2. Ricky Johnson; 3. Matt Jester; 4. Steve Downs II; 5. Jamie Mills; 6. Glenn Richards; 7. Donny Radd; 8. HJ Bunting; 9. Norman Short; 10. Judd Mills; 11. Dale Hawkins; 12. Scott Van Gorder; 13. George Richardson; 14. Jeff Brown; 15. Craig Ott; 16. Dana Walker; 17. Joseph Watson; 18. Scott Hulmes; 19. Joe Dekutoski; 20. Robert Dutton; 21. Dave Simmons; DNS: Chad Clark.

15-Lap AC Delco Modified Feature: 1. JOE TRACY; 2. Tim Trimble; 3. Brad Trice; 4. Herman Powell; 5. Michael White; 6. Justin Griffith; 7. Casey Lynch; 8. John Curtis; 9. Randy Hill Jr; 10. Matt Hawkins; 11. Jason Bishop; 12. Westley Smith; 13., Gary Blessing; 14.Taylor Craik; 15. Jerry Carter; 16, Grant Ireland; 17. John Wynn; 18. Scott Calhoun; 19. Garrie Bostwick; 20. Scott Baker; 21, Herbie Hempel; 22. Bobby Watkins; 23, Rodney Cordrey; 24. Danny Smack; 25. Brian Robbins; 26. Brandon Perdue.

10-Lap Modified Lite Feature: 1. STEVE WHITE; 2. Brandon Dennis; 3. Curt Miles Jr; 4. Tim White; 5. Sparky White; 6. Kirk Miles; 7. Cody Belote; 8. Allan Passwaters; 9. Rick Wheatley; 10. Shawn Weber; 11. Aaron Bada; 12 Chad Passwaters; 13. TJ Williams.

April 12, 2008

“RAPID” RICHARD LEADS FLAG TO FLAG FOR DELAWARE LATE MODEL WIN

By Charlie Brown, Delmar, DE – “Rapid” Richard Jarvis, Jr. lived up to his nickname as he led all 20 laps of Saturday night’s Super Late Model opener at the Delaware International Speedway. The former champion is back behind the wheel of the Steve Nutall No. 11 for the 2008 season.

The feature started heads up from the heat race finishes with Jarvis on the point and Austin Hubbard in second. Ross Robinson started in third and mounted a challenge on Hubbard on a lap three restart. The two made contact with Robinson going nose first into the wall at the flag stand and collecting Staci Warrington, Derrike Hill, Kevin Scott and Kerry King.

Jarvis had no problems on the restarts and would quickly open an advantage over Hubbard in second. Ray Davis started in 17th and was on a mission, cracking the top five on lap six then working past Rob Massey and David Hill for third by halfway. At that point Massey held on to fourth with Hal Browning running in fifth.

Davis continued his charge taking second from Hubbard with seven laps to go. A final caution on lap 17 gave Davis one final chance at Jarvis but Jarvis darted away on the green and went on to take the win in the Mid-Coastal Siding/Rocket. Davis finished in the second spot with Hubbard third. Fourth went to Massey and David Hill rounded out the top five.

In the Street Modified 15-lap feature, Kelly Putz started on the pole after setting fast time in qualify. The first lap was an exciting one as Putz, Jack Mullins, and Barry Beauchamp came off the fourth turn three wide. Mullins edged the trio to lead the lap with Beauchamp taking second.

Herb Tunis was on the outside and heading to the front after starting in tenth. By lap three, he was fifth and one lap later he passed by Putz and Joe Warren for third. Tunis dropped Beauchamp to third on lap five and two laps later, slipped low under Mullins going into the third turn to take the lead.

At the halfway point the top five were Tunis, Mullins, Beauchamp, Mike Wilson and Justin Breeding. With Mullins in control, Beauchamp and Mullins put on a good battle for second with Mullins gaining the spot with three to go.

Tunis, in the Greg Mitchell Racing/Tink’s Fab Shop/Rocket went on to collect his first career win in the division. Mullins finished in second with Beauchamp third. Fourth went to Wilson and Eric Vent closed strong to round out the top five.

RESULTS: 20-Lap Super Late Model Feature: 1. RICHARD JARVIS, JR.; 2. Ray Davis Jr; 3. Austin Hubbard; 4. Rob Massey; 5. David Hill; 6. Hal Browning; 7. Rob Schirmer; 8. Kevin Scott; 9. Rick Whaley; 10. Stacey Warrington; 11. Bob Geiger; 12. David Pettyjohn; 13. Derrike Hill; 14. Jon Callaway; 15. Larry Meadows; 16. Ross Robinson; 17, Kerry King; DNS: Dale Lingo.

15-Lap Street Modified Feature: 1. HERB TUNIS; 2. Jack Mullins; 3. Barry Beauchamp; 4. Mike Wilson; 5. Eric Vent; 6. Justin Breeding; 7. Mike Williams; 8. Kelly Putz; 9. John Imler; 10. Josh Millman; 11. Skip Syester; 12. Nick Davis; 13. Mike Parsons; 14. Bunky White; 15. Chris Justice; 16. Tyler Reed; 17. Joe Warren; DNS: Punky Chism.

April 6, 2008

TEST NIGHT RESCHEDULED FOR THURSDAY BEFORE OPENER –

NAPA TO SPONSOR BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS IN 2008

By Charlie Brown, Delmar, DE – While Mother Nature may have wiped out the Tune & Test Night on Saturday night at the Delaware International Speedway, she didn’t wipe it from the schedule as the Tune & Test has been rescheduled for Thursday night, April 10th. Also promoter Charlie Cathell made a big announcement this past weekend when he named Delmarva NAPA Auto Parts Stores as the division sponsors for the Big Block Modifieds for 2008.

“I’m proud of our long time association with NAPA,” said Cathell. “The name recognition of the NAPA Big Block Modifieds will help add to the appeal of the division. The commitment from the 17 Delmarva NAPA Auto Parts stores was coordinated by the father and son team of Bill and Dale Cropper of NAPA of Salisbury, Md.

The rescheduling of the Tune & Test Night was the direct result of request by the drivers. “My phone has been ringing off the hook,” said Cathell. “A lot of drivers have new cars and I don’t blame them for wanting a night to sort things out before they are in actual competition.”

Gates open for the April 10th Tune & Test as 5 p.m. with test sessions running from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. A number of divisions are expected to participate including the NAPA Big Block Modifieds, the Super Late Models, the AC Delco Modifieds, the Street Modifieds, the Modified Lites, the URC Sprint Cars, the Little Lincoln Vintage Cars and the Vintage Stock Cars. Admission on the grandstand side is free.

Opening night, April 12th, gates open at 5 p.m. with hot laps at 7 p.m. For more information log on to www.delawareracing.com or call the speedway office at 302-875-1911.

DELAWARE INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY GEARS UP FOR 2008

Delmar, DE (3/30/08) – The Delaware International Speedway is ready to stage its 37th consecutive year allowing Delmarva fans to stay close to home and see some of the finest dirt track action in the East. Fans will be treated to a preview on Saturday night, April, 5th then the green flag will drop on the 2008 point season on Saturday night, April 12th.

Delaware International will one again headline the Big Block Modifieds and the Super Late Models on a weekly basic along with the AC Delco Modifieds, the Street Modifieds and the Modified Lites. On six dates throughout the season the United Racing Company Sprint Cars will join the weekly divisions. The Little Lincoln Vintage Cars, the Vintage Stock Cars, and the Slide for 5 cars will make periodic visits.

With the introduction of the “crate” engine which makes racing more affordable the support divisions have grown tremendously. Both the AC Delco TSS Modifies and the Street Modifieds run the sealed crate motors and have attracted many new and returning drivers to the two divisions. Also expect some of the top drivers in both of these divisions to move to the big block classes in both open wheel and full bodied cars.

The URC Sprints make their first appearance on April 19th. The following week on April 26th will be the William J. Cathell Memorial which will include the wild and crazy Slide for 5 cars. The Little Lincoln Vintage Stock Cars will join the five weekly divisions on May 3rd.

Be sure to mark you calendars for two big mid-week shows. The World of Outlaw Late Models return on Thursday night, May 29th to kick off the big NASCAR weekend in Dover and the ever-popular Camp Barnes Benefit race will take center stage on Wednesday night, July 9th.

Gates open for the April 5th Tune & Test as 5 p.m. with test sessions running from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Admission on the grandstand side is free. Opening night, April 12th, gates open at 5 p.m. with hot laps at 7 p.m. For more information log on to www.delawareracing.com or call the speedway office at 302-875-1911.

February 3, 2008

DELAWARE INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY CELEBRATES 2007 SEASON

By Charlie Brown, Dover, DE – A large crowd assembled this past weekend at the Dover Downs Hotel & Casino to celebrate the 2007 season at the Delaware International Speedway. A total of $54,650 in cash and more than $15,000 in contingencies was distributed to the top ten in points in the five weekly divisions.

Taking home the lion’s share of the cash for the third consecutive year was H.J. Bunting, III of Milford, Del. H.J. equaled his father Harold’s three consecutive championships (1984, ’85 & ’86) and four overall. The elder Bunting still builds the engines that powered the potent No. 91 to six wins this season. Driving his own Cortland Manor/First State Chevrolet/Premier Heating & Air/Side Effects sponsored mount Bunting racked up 2445 points earning him $6,500 from the point fund.

Chasing Bunting right up to the final event was Ricky Johnson of Delmar, Del. Johnson posted two wins during the season earning 2339 points and $3600 from the point fund. Third through fifth in points were Matt Jester of Lincoln, Del. (2175 pts. & $2850), Robert Dutton of Milford, Del. (2013 pts. & $2350) and Mark Byram of Georgetown, Del. (1984 pts. & $1850). Sixth through tenth in order were Norman Short of Georgetown (1951 pts. & $1600); Howard O’Neal of Lincoln (1929 & $1400); Glenn Reed of Milton, Del. (1618 pts. & $1300); Jamie Mills of Milford (1605 pts. & $1200) and Joe Dekutoski of Quatertown, Pa. (1362 pts. & $1100). Dekutoski also garnered “Rookie of the Year” honors. Trophies presented were sponsored by Lankford Sysco.

Donald Lingo, Jr. of Millsboro, Del. driving his own Lingo Marine/Atkins Masonry/Ralph’s Custom Dual Exhaust/Rocket spread seven wins throughout the season to record his second consecutive championship. Lingo earned 2275 points and took home $4,500 from the banquet. Lingo accomplished the defense of his 2006 championship driving a car with six seasons on it and powered by an engine built by his father and local cylinder head wizard, Mark Benston.

Having his best finish in the standings was Rick Whaley of Millsboro with three wins for a total of 2060 points worth $2500 from the point fund. Rounding out the top ten were 3rd,David Hill of Trappe, Md. (1959/ $1650); 4th Kerry King of Delmar, Del. (1906/$1250); 5th Ray Davis, Jr. of Millsboro (1611/$1050); 6th Bob Geiger of Laurel, Del. (1542/$950); 7th Kenny Pettyjohn of Millsboro (1540/$875); 8th Vic Thomas of Georgetown (1193/$775); 9th Dale Lingo IV of Millsboro (1031/$675) and 10th Ross Robinson of Georgetown (975/$575). Trophies were sponsored by Autoworld America.

The Street Modified saw a large influx of new drivers including Jack Mullins, Jr. of Seaford, Del. Mullins, the 2006 AC Delco Modified champ, migrated into the Street Modifieds and once he adjusted to the difference in driving stiles, he racked up seven wins and 1909 points to win the division. Mullins was behind the wheel of the Bi Rite Auto Sales/Murray Motors/Gene’s Limos/Warrior earned $2000 in cash and a contingency award from Courtesy Chevrolet, the exclusive distributor for the GM crate engines.

Also receiving cash and trophies were 2nd, Kelly Putz of Georgetown (1745/$900); 3rd, Mike Wilson of Salisbury, Md. (1670/$675); 4th, Joe Warren of Georgetown (1586/$525); 5th, Herb Tunis of Georgetown (1530/$425); 6th Barry Beauchamp of Salisbury (1487/$375); 7th, Justin Breeding of Federalsburg, Md. (1214/$275); 8th, Mark Williams of Seaford, Del. (1147/$225); 9th, Kevin Scott, Jr. of Laurel (1116/$200) and 10th, Eric Vent of Milton (1095/$175). Trophies were presented by Snookie’s Speed Parts of Milton.

The AC Delco TSS Modified class was highly competitive in 2007. The point battle for the second year went down to the final race of the season with Brad Trice of Parsonsburg, Md., who finished in second in 2006, earning his first championship. Trice piloted the Jeff Brown/Chesapeake Paving modified to three wins and earning $2000 for his 1925 points. Joseph Tracey of Millsboro had four wins on the year and kept the pressure on Trice, finishing second with 1855 points and earning $900.

Rounding out the top ten were 3rd, Michael White of Laurel (1775/$675); 4th, Chad Clark of Bridgeville, Del. (1773/$525); 5th, Rodney Cordrey of Cordovia, Md. (1770/$425); 6th, Tim Trimble of Easton, Md. (1573/$375); 7th, John Curtis of Harrington, Del. (1527/$275); 8th, Justin Griffith of Georgetown (1325/$225); 9th, Brandon Perdue of Georgetown (1109/$200) and 10th, John Wynn of Milford (1047/$175). Trophies were presented by R.C. Holloway Company.

The championship in the Modified Lite division was a dream come true for Steve White of Laurel. Over the last 13 years White had raced to over 200 wins, two TUSA National Championships and several track championships at other speedways but the Delaware International championship in his own back yard had eluded him. Driving the Woods Construction/R&F Auto/Durham Racing/Northeast Modified Light Lightning, White dominated the division with 15 wins in 22 events and 2280 points with $1500.

Fifteen year old Curt Miles, Jr. of Saxis, Va. finished in second with 1995 points worth $650. Rounding out the top ten were: 3rd, Brandon Dennis of Greenwood, Del. (1920/$525); 4th, Aaron Bada of Laurel (1855/$425); 5th, Kirk Miles of Saxis (1845/$375); 6th, Rick Wheatley of Seaford (1670/$325); 7th, tie between Tim White of Salisbury and Cody Belote of Laurel (1540/$212.50); 9th, Allen Passwaters of Seaford (1030/$175) and Chad Passwaters of Blades, Del. (920/$150) Trophies were presented by the Pepsi of Delmarva.

The champions received championship jackets and competed in a game of chance that netted Jack Mullins, Jr. a quarter karat diamond necklace that he presented to his grandmother. Donald Lingo received a season pass, Brad Trice a night at the races for 10 of his friends, and H.J. Bunting and Steve White received pit parking spots.

The $54,000 plus point fund was due largely in part to season sponsors that included: Courtesy Chevrolet; R.C. Holloway Company; American Race Tires from Lias Tire Racing Division; Grotto Pizza; Hertrich Pontiac/Buick/GMC Trucks/Isuzu; Pepsi of Delmarva; Snookie’s Speed Parts; Scott’s Furniture; Delmarva NAPA Dealers; Taylor & Messick John Deere; Pro Race Cars; Hab Nab Trucking; I.G. Burton Chevrolet; Sunoco Race Fuels; A-1 Racing Specialties; Lankford Sysco; Autoworld America; Courtesy Chevrolet Parts Dept. and the Delmarva Drivers Club. The 2008 season begins with a Tune & Test on April 5th with the season opener set for Saturday night April 12th.