05-05-08: With two events in the record book the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Series takes a couple of weeks off before resuming the 2008 championship battle on May 23 at the Stafford Motor Speedway. Chuck Hossfeld, the only driver with two top fives, leads the point standings. Hossfeld, who is driving for defending Whelen Modified Tour Series Champion car owner Bob Garbarino, finished second in the season opening Ice Breaker at Thompson and third at the Stafford Sizzler. Hossfeld holds a 21 point lead over Sizzler winner Ted Christopher. Christopher finished 10th at Thompson. James Civali sits in third some nine points behind Christopher. Civali finished sixth at Thompson and fifth at Stafford . Rowan Pennick, a relative new-comer, sits fourth in points. Pennick finished ninth at Thompson and backed it up with a strong sixth place finish at Stafford . Rounding out the top five is Todd Szegedy. One of the more faster cars on the tour, Szegedy’s luck in the rain at Thompson which caused him to finish seventh plus a ninth at Stafford kept his point total low. MORE>>

04-29-08: The Stafford Motor Speedway opened for the season under sunny skies with qualifying for the annual Spring Sizzler, an event that has run continuously since 1972 featuring the NASCAR Modifieds. Thirty five Modifieds were on hand for qualifying for the 200 lap event that carried a purse of $94,676. In the inaugural event the late Eddie Flemke, driving the Bobby Judkins No.2x Pinto led until the closing stages when his engine suffered water pump failure, forcing him out of the event. Waiting in the wings on Flemke’s bumper was the late Fred DeSarro who was driving the car they call “Ole Blu” which was owned by the late Len Boehler. DeSarro inherited the lead and went on to take the win. Now, some thirty five years later the same names re-appear, well almost. Seventeen year old Ryan Preece, who is the grandson of Bobby Judkins drove the 2008 version of “Ole Blu” which is now owned by Michael Boehler, Len Boehler’s son, and his mother Janice. Preece, who failed to qualify for the 2007 Sizzler, toured the Stafford half mile in 18.057 seconds, 99.684mph, and earned the Coors Light Pole Award for the Sizzler. MORE>>

04-22-08: The Waterford Speedbowl moved into its regular Saturday night schedule. The management has created a new flag for the starter to display. It’s called the “Meatball” flag and it is to be waved at an individual who refuses to comply with the officials in charge or someone who makes a dumb move or decision. Last weeks “Meatball Flag” should have been shown to the Late Model driver who started on the pole of the Late Model feature who triggered a wreck that eliminated the potential winning cars of Larry Goss and Eddie Reed Jr. Starting on the pole as a rookie makes no sense at all. The individual who makes the line-ups is also deserving of the “Meat Ball”. Bruce Thomas Jr was the eventual winner and is now two for two in Late Model competition at the shoreline oval. MORE>>

04-15-08: As of this Friday, two days remain until the The True Value Modified Series begins on Sunday, April 20 at the Lee USA Speedway in Lee , NH . The Stafford Motor Speedway hosts the Annual Spring Sizzler on April 26-27. Dennis Gada, gunning for his seventh SK Modified Championship at the Waterford Speedbowl was the master of the re-start as he won the $5,000-to-win Waterford SK Modified “150”, the centerpiece of the 10-division Modified Nationals which including extra-distance events for the Speedbowl’s Late Model, Sportsman and Mini Stock divisions. The Northeastern Midget Association, Pro4 Modifieds, AllStar Race Trucks, Allison Legacy Cars and NEMA Lites were also on tap. A huge field of SK Modifieds, 34, were on hand for the event that began the 58th consecutive season of auto racing at the shoreline oval. In Saturday time trials Gada was fourth fastest behind Doug Coby, Kenny Horton and Matt Hirschman. Based on a draw among the top qualifiers Coby started on the pole with Horton, outside. Hirschman started third. Gada started eighth. MORE>>

04-08-08: The Thompson Speedway officially opened the 2008 racing season in the northeast and began the 2008 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Series. In what was supposed to be a fun filled and competitive weekend ended in tragedy and ultimately a wet note. A racing accident claimed the life of race driver Shane Hammond of Halifax , MA . The accident occurred on the third lap of a scheduled 25-lap Northeast Midget Association (NEMA) feature event race. Hammond was traveling down the backstretch of the 5/8 mile oval when he cart wheeled over the third turn wall and hit an advertisement sign. “Everyone at the Thompson Speedway is saddened by this tragic loss,” said track Owner, Donald Hoenig. MORE>>

04-01-08: As of this Friday, April 4, two days remain until the Whelen Modified Tour Series opening Thompson Speedway IceBreaker gets the green flag on Sunday, April 6. Waterford opens next Sunday on April 13. The True Value Modified Series begins on Sunday, April 20 at the Lee USA Speedway in Lee , NH . The Stafford Motor Speedway hosts the Annual Spring Sizzler on April 26-27. Tickets for the Thompson IceBreaker will be $40 for adults, $10 for kids and a three day pit pass is $50. In addition to the Whelen Modified Tour 150 the IceBreaker will consist of six features including double features for the Sunoco Modifieds and Late Models. (Rain Date April 12-13). MORE>>

03-25-08: As of this Friday, March 28, nine days remain until the Whelen Modified Tour Series opening Thompson Speedway IceBreaker gets the green flag on Sunday, April 6. Waterford opens one week later on April 13. The True Value Modified Series begins on Saturday night, April 12 at the Monadnock Speedway in Winchester , NH . Two weeks after that the Stafford Motor Speedway hosts the Annual Spring Sizzler on April 26-27. Tickets for the Thompson IceBreaker will be $40 for adults, $10 for kids and a three day pit pass is $50. In addition to the Whelen Modified Tour 150 the IceBreaker will consist of six features including double features for the Sunoco Modifieds and Late Models. (Rain Date April 12-13). MORE>>

03-18-08: As of this Friday, March 21, sixteen days remain until the Whelen Modified Tour Series opening Thompson Speedway IceBreaker gets the green flag on Sunday, April 6. Waterford opens one week later on April 13. The True Value Modified Series begins on Saturday night, April 12 at the Monadnock Speedway in Winchester , NH . Two weeks after that the Stafford Motor Speedway hosts the Annual Spring Sizzler on April 26-27. In the mean time, the Whelen Southern Modified Tour Series will begin this coming Saturday, March 22, at the high banked Caraway Speedway in Ashboro , NC . Among those from the northern contingent that will be there to take on the southerners are Ted Christopher, James Civali and Ronnie Silk. Silk will be driving for Roger and Sandra Hill of Westfield, NC while Christopher will be in the Brady Bunch entry from Brockton , MA . This weekend’s event marks the first of six visits by the NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour to Caraway Speedway in 2008. MORE>>

03-11-08: As of this Friday, March 14, twenty three days remain until the Whelen Modified Tour Series opening Thompson Speedway IceBreaker gets the green flag on Sunday, April 6. Waterford opens one week later on April 13. The True Value Modified Series begins on Saturday night, April 12 at the Monadnock Speedway in Winchester , NH . Two weeks after that the Stafford Motor Speedway hosts the Annual Spring Sizzler on April 26-27. In the mean time, the Whelen Southern Modified Tour Series will begin a week from this coming Saturday, March 22, at the high banked Caraway Speedway in Ashboro , NC . Among those from the northern contingent that will be there to take on the southerners are Ted Christopher, James Civali and Ronnie Silk. Silk will be driving for Roger and Sandra Hill of Westfield, NC while Christopher will be in the Brady Bunch entry from Brockton , MA . MORE>>

03-04-08: The big event last weekend was the second annual Speedway Expo at the Big E in West Springfield , MA . The brainchild of Dick Berggren, Speedway Expo had something for everyone who is involved in auto racing. The show served as a preview of the upcoming season with many tracks showcasing their facilities. On Saturday, SpeedwayEXPO hosted a Toast 'n Roast and the featured guest was Ted Christopher. Among the favorite Modifieds on display was the No.61 Richie Evans Ghost Rider that was recently restored by Spearpoint Racing and the original Ernie Wilsburg ’82 Troyer that won just about every major race in the 82-83 season with Greg Sacks and Charlie Jarzombek at the controls. With the announcement of the television package for the NASCAR Developmental Series, formerly Busch North, Busch East or whatever, it appears that once again the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Series, which in words from NASCAR is the sanctioning bodies most competitive division, has got what the cow left behind after she jumped the fence! MORE>>

02-26-08: This weekend, from Friday Feb 29 to Sunday, Mar 2 the second annual Speedway Expo takes center stage. The brainchild of Dick Berggren, Speedway Expo has something for everyone who is involved in auto racing. The show serves as a preview of the upcoming season. SpeedwayEXPO ‘08 sponsored by Sunoco will be held in the Mallary Complex on the grounds of the Eastern States Expo Center in West Springfield, MA. With more than three acres of indoor space dedicated to motorsports, displays will include local and regional race tracks and association as well as vendors of performance parts, safety equipment, accessories and apparel and memorabilia. In addition there will be a full schedule of special events, including autograph sessions, the Pit Crew Challenge, pedal-car races for the kids and a host of special vehicle displays like Tony Stewart’s "Smoke deVille." MORE>>

02-19-08: At New Smyrna it was back to business for the Tour type Modifieds and the SK type Modifieds on Monday night. The new week brought in some new competition including the Tom Baldwin Sr Tribute car that would be driven by Sprint Cup driver Kyle Busch. Other new arrivals included James Civali, Buck Catalano, Ronnie Silk and Barry Callavini. First out for qualifying on Monday night were the SK type Modifieds that now numbered 19. Jimmy Blewett was the fastest qualifier followed by Josh Sylvester and Eric Goodale. The Tour type Modifieds were 21 strong. Chuck Hossfeld continued to be the top qualifier as he inched out Ted Christopher for the top spot. Hossfeld toured the half mile oval on 16.858 seconds while Ted Christopher’s time was 16.875 seconds. Jimmy Blewett was third fastest. During Tour typeModified qualifying Kyle Busch slide-swiped the wall coming off turn four on his first lap of qualifying. Busch pulled the car with moderate damage into the pits after completing the first lap. MORE>>

02-12-08: After a long winter’s wait the 2008 racing season began last Friday night with the 42nd Annual version of the World Series of auto racing at the New Smyrna Speedway. It was also the beginning of the 2008 NASCAR Sprint Cup season. The Budweiser Shootout and Daytona 500 pole qualifying started their season at the Daytona International Speedway. At New Smyrna for the Friday night opener there were 17 SK type Modifieds and 17 Tour type Modifieds on hand. Jimmy Blewett scored a one-two punch as he was the top qualifier in both divisions. The only casualty during qualifying was Long Islander JR Bertuccio hitting the wall and doing extensive damage to the Connecticut based Bear Motorsports Tour type entry. MORE>>

02-05-08: After a long winter’s wait the 2008 racing season begins this week with the World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing at the New Smyrna Speedway. The 42nd Annual version of the World Series at New Smyrna begins on Friday night, February 8th and run nine-consecutive nights through the 16th. It’s also the beginning of the 2008 NASCAR Sprint Cup season. The Budweiser Shootout and Daytona 500 pole qualifying start their season at the Daytona International Speedway. Among those entered to compete at New Smyrna are New Englanders Lou Mechalides of Tyngsboro, MA in the Super Late Models, Joey Pole of Hudson, NH with his Crate Late Model and Glenn Griswold, Jr. of Conn. in that division. Also, in the Tour Type Modifieds entries are: Charlie Pasteryak of Lisbon, Conn., Andy Suess of southern NH and Ted Christopher of Plainville, Conn. Other Modified entries include Eric Beers, JR Bertuccio, Jimmy Blewett, Chuck Hossfeld, James Civali, Kenny Horton, Ronnie Silk and Butch Perry MORE>>

01-29-08: On the local front in New England at the Waterford Speedbowl it has been announced that Tom Fox has hung up his driving suit and will assume the role as Chief Technical Inspector. Fox litterly grew up at the shoreline oval as his dad, Ron, was one of the original competitors in the Super Stock division when it was started by Harvey Tattersall in the mid-1970’s. Fox knows the ins and outs of building cars and should be a good choice for the position. As far as the future of the shoreline oval is concerned PR Director Dave Dykes stated ” We're trying to assure people that the situation at Waterford is in fact, a good one, and the old girl is gonna' be alright”. MORE>>

01-22-08: Rumors of the demise of the Wall Township Speedway in New Jersey continue to surface. Track Public Relations Director Mike Clayton says things look good for 2008 and expects to be able to make an announcement shortly. On the local front in New England at the Waterford Speedbowl Jerry Robinson along with Dave Dykes are working hard to bring some weekly stability to the shoreline oval. Like their peers at Wall Township, the competitors and fans at the Speedbowl are an extremely loyal group and will support the current management provided they continue to make an honest attempt at keeping the facility afloat. For the most part it’s pretty quiet on the auto racing front. As of this Friday, Jan 25, its only 14 days before the green flag drops at the Annual World Series at the New Smyrna Speedway in Florida. Modified Tour type and SK type entrys have been slow in arriving. With gas prices running between $3.05 to $3.25 along with diesel fuel going through the roof car owners may be having second thoughts about traveling to Florida this year. To date only 10 Tour type and six SK type Modifieds are entered. MORE>>

01-08-08: The Waterford Speedbowl is scheduled to hold its annual banquet of champions this Saturday night at the Groton Inn & Suites in Groton, CT. In what should be a gala affair for champions Rob Janovic (SK Modified), Bruce Thomas Jr. (Late Models), Dwayne Dorr (Sportsman), Ken Cassidy Jr. (Mini Stock) and Michael Gervais Jr. (Saturday Night Legends), could turn into a wake because of the fact that Track Manager Bill Roth has left his position. Roth, along with the efforts of Pete Zanardi were responsible for keeping the shoreline oval from slipping into oblivion after property owner and former track operator had all but run the track into the ground. Jerry Robinson, who was Roth’s partner in running the facility is still involved but chances are he will not run the facility on his own. Chances are that Eames will re-take control of the facility which means the end of the Speedbowl as we know it will fade into oblivion as it will be cut up into industrial sites and sold. MORE>>

12-25-07: In NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour news Woody Pitkat is still recovering from the shock of being dismissed as the driver of the Hills Enterprises No. 79. It’s a shame that things didn’t work out but life goes on, despite some bumps in the road. The Hills have hired Ron Silk to fill the empty seat. Silk had been slated to drive the Boehler No. 3. Silks former ride will be occupied by Jimmy Blewett. Eddie Partridge will provide the engines. Partridge stated that Blewett will drive his SK Modifieds at Thompson on Thursdays and at Stafford on Fridays. Tentative plans also look like Blewett and Partridge will return to the Waterford Speedbowl for their opener despite a controversial and bad call last year. When his schedule permits Partridge will provide a car for Blewett to drive at the Riverhead Raceway. MORE>>

12-18-07: In NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour news the series hosted its banquet of champions at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville , CT on Friday night. Taking center stage was 2007 Champion Don Lia and his car owner, Bob Garbarino. Lia’s first career NASCAR title made him the 60th NASCAR Modified champion dating back to the division’s first champion, Red Byron, in 1948. For Garbarino it was the culmination of 4-1/2 decades of dedication of building and owning Modifieds. Former NASCAR National Modified Champion Jerry Cook presented Garbarino a special Car Owners Championship trophy. In accepting, Garbarino stated, “Modified Car Owners are a special group of people, I’m proud to be one of them”. He added, “Since August 11, 1961 , Modified Racing has been part of my family”. Garbarino and his wife, Joan, recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. “She has supported me every step of the way”, he said. MORE>>

12-11-07: In NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour news the much talked about “Spec Engine” for the Whelen Modifieds continues to be a hot topic. When ever there is change or the possibility of change competitors become unhappy as they sometimes are forced to obsolete equipment that they paid dearly for or got for nothing. When tire rules were in their formative years some of the division’s top competitors including the late Richie Evans were against a tire rule, especially one that mandated the use of Hoosiers. Simple economics were Evans’ reasoning because he was getting Goodyears for free! Once the Hoosier Tire rule was put in place there was no need to give a certain few top runners free tires as with the rule in place Hoosier would win every race, no matter who was driving. Putting in a tire rule did in fact help the division as NASCAR could dictate which compound would be used to get the best life from the tire. It is NASCAR’s intent to give engines more life at a lesser cost. MORE>>

12-04-07: In NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour news the much talked about “Spec Engine” for the Whelen Modifieds continues to be a hot topic. According to Brett Bodine, the Director of Cost Research at the NASCAR Research and Development Center in Concord , NC , the “Spec Engine” can be built by anyone. Parts must be purchased from Provident Engineering (Gary Nelson) or from Carl Wagner. According to Bodine a complete engine, ready to install and run will cost $25,000. “It is not our intent to put anyone out of business” he said. Bodine, a former Modified Racer and currently driver of the pace car at NASCAR Cup events added “All parts of the engine are encrypted which eliminates any altering”. NASCAR has and will impound engines for spot checks which in turn will keep everybody honest. Already in use in NASCAR’s Busch East division, the power plant has proved itself in being competitive and durable. Joey Logano, who recently won the Busch East Championship, used a “Spec Engine” in his Joe Gibbs Racing mount. MORE>>

11-27-07: In NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour news it appears that NASCAR is leaning toward using“Spec type” motors in the Whelen Modifieds. Spec motors are designed, built and sealed by a NASCAR approved engine builder. Their purpose is to lower the cost and increase the longevity of engines currently in use. A top running, professionally built Tour type engine ranges from $40-55,000. A top running team needs at least three of them. It is NASCAR’s intent to phase the new engines into the Modified series at some point and hopefully the sanctioning body will allow competitors time to use up or sell existing equipment. Gary Danko's Speedway Line Report recently reported that the No. 2 team of Todd Szegedy had a spec motor installed in one of their cars. Szegedy ran tests at the Concord Motorsports Park with the Spec motor car and a Ford powered car. Weather permitting, additional testing will take place at the Stafford Motor Speedway this coming Friday Nov 30 and Saturday, Dec 1. Mike Stefanik is slated to drive one of the cars at the Stafford test session. MORE>>

11-20-07: In NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour news it looks like Jimmy Blewett, who had 15 wins to his credit in 2007, will be spending his non-touring Saturday nights at the Riverhead Raceway on Long Island in 2008. Blewett will compete on the tour in 2008 but not in the familiar Eddie Partridge No. 12. Blewett will be driving the George Bierce No. 19 that was driven by Ronnie Silk. Partridge has consummated a deal that will see both race teams merged into one. To supplement the Bierce team Partridge will supply an additional car plus motors and transmissions. Blewett and the Partridge SK Modified will compete weekly at the Stafford Motor Speedway and at the Thompson Speedway. Silk is a candidate to drive the Curt Chase No.77 as well as the Boehler No. 3, which is if Bobby Santos III is committed to racing in the south. Eric Beers, who lives down the street from Tony Hirschman, will be stepping into the Massachusetts based No. 46 that was driven by Dick Houlihan. Beers, who drove the Boehler No.3 a while back, finished an impressive second in the No. 46 at the recent North-South Shootout. Jamie Tomaino, who is considered to be the oldest active tour driver with close to 500 starts, has his home in New Jersey up for sale and hopes to be moving to North Carolina . Once the move is made he will concentrate his racing efforts on the Whelen Southern Modified Tour with occasional starts on the northern tour. MORE>>

11-13-07: t looks like former Whelen Modified Tour Series Champion Tony Hirschman has lost his sponsor/car owners as they have told him they are retiring from the sport. Hirschman, who was on the Gary Danko radio show a while back, stated that the owners (the Kehele’s) got the team together at the Stafford Fall Final and told them they were retiring at seasons end. Hirschman, who has nothing left to prove, could very well retire himself and devote his time to his son Matt’s career. The younger Hirschman recently scored an impressive win in the North/South Shootout.
In other Whelen Modified Tour news it looks like Series Champion Don Lia will be replacing Terry Cook on the Craftsman Truck series in 2008. If that is the case a strong rumor has Bob Garbarino retiring from the sport. Tour regular Wade Cole recently scored a victory in Connecticut politics when he was elected First Selectman in the town of Hartland . The Riverhead Raceway on Long Island announced at their annual banquet that they will host the Whelen Modified Tour on Saturday night, August 2. The Stafford Speedway is expected to announce their Tour dates at their annual banquet this coming Friday, Nov. 16. MORE>>

11-06-07: he post season North-South Shootout was supposed to be the big newsmaker last week but that all changes at high noon on Friday when it was announced that Speedway Motorsports, Inc. (NYSE:TRK) had agreed to purchase the New Hampshire International Speedway from Bob and Gary Bahre for $340 million in cash. O. Bruton Smith, founder, chairman and chief executive officer of Speedway Motorsports, Inc, announced the agreement. The acquisition is expected to close in the first quarter of 2008. To align with other SMI-owned speedway brands, the track will be renamed New Hampshire Motor Speedway following completion of the acquisition. The speedway, which opened in 1990 and hosts two Nextel Cup Series events each year, is located about one hour north of Boston in Loudon, N.H. According to the latest census numbers, the population within 200 miles of the speedway is more than 18 million people. The venue is easily accessible via Interstate highways from all metro areas in the northeastern United States and eastern Canada. MORE>>

10-30-07: t took a while but NASCAR finally got around to updating the Whelen Modified Tour Series point standings. Donnie Lia ended the season in the top spot despite the fact that he dropped out of the season ending World Series at Thompson with a blown engine. Lia had sewed up the title after the Stafford event. In 16 events Lia scored 13 top tens, which included six wins. His season winning total is $83,800. Todd Szegedy ended up in second spot, 180 points behind. Szegedy, in 16 events, scored 11 top tens, which included two wins which brought his season totals to $60,225. Although winless Matt Hirschman used consistency in order to finish up third in the final standings. In 16 events the second-generation racer recorded 11 top tens which included five top fives. Ronnie Silk with one win and Ted Christopher with one win rounded out the top five. Sixth through tenth were James Civali with three wins, Mike Stefanik with one win, Jimmy Blewett with one win, Jamie Tomaino and Eddie Flemke JR. finished out the top 10. MORE>>

10-23-07: When NEAR announced their choices for induction into the Hall of Fame, class of 2008, two unique individuals appeared on the list. Pete Zanardi and Dr. Dick Berggren are two New England natives who have dedicated their lives and careers to auto racing. Zanardi, a retired sports writer was one of the first to cover weekly racing and give recognition to competitors in the print media. He wrote about many in national publications and he mentored many including yours truly. He was responsible for setting up the original public relations department when Jack Arute bought the Stafford Speedway. His biggest accomplishment could very well be the effort he put in to save the Waterford Speedbowl from extinction. Berggren began his career as a race driver at Stafford. He also took a lot of pictures and after a short driving career the camera won out. During his early years his photos were published in the now defunct Cavalcade of Auto Racing that was owned by Jim Moffat. The photos led to printed stories. He received a doctorates degree which should have led to a teaching career but auto racing won out as Berggren expanded his racing and eventually became the editor of the now defunct Stock Car Racing Magazine. MORE>>

10-16-07: The Annual World Series at the Thompson Speedway closed out the 2007 season for many in New England last weekend. Forty-two NASCAR Modifieds were on hand for time trials. Part time Tour competitor Tony Ferrante provided a pleasant surprise when he set the fastest time and captured the Busch pole. Ferrante's time of 120.656 mph around the .625-mile oval beat out Tony Hirschman Jr. by .025 seconds. Don Lia, Billy Pauch Jr and Matt Hirschman rounded out the top five. Qualifying went smooth except for the fact that Jamie Tomaino slammed the first turn wall after completing his second qualifying lap. Tomaino’s time wasn’t good enough to make the starting field but he was eligible for a provisional spot, which he took. Lenny Boehler and Bob “Frito Bandito” Santos, both deceased and NEAR Hall of Fame inductees, had to be smiling last Sunday as Bobby Santos III drove the Boehler Racing Ole Blu to victory in the NASCAR Modified portion of the World Series. Based on the re-draw after time trials Santos started second in the 150-lap event. Santos, who was in the hunt the entire race, grabbed the lead on a restart on lap 131 and went on to victory over Reggie Ruggiero, Matt Hirschman, Ted Christopher and Ronnie Silk. Sixth through tenth were Kevin Goodale, Ryan Preece, Mike Stefanik, Tony Hirschman and Renee Dupuis. MORE>>

10-09-07: The celebrations continue on Long Island and in Mystic Ct as the Whelen Modified Tour Series closes out the 2007 season this weekend at the Thompson Speedway. Going into the final event which is part of the annual World Series, Donnie Lia holds a 183 point lead over Todd Szegedy. Lia’s championship is cast in stone. Szegedy’s position is not as he leads James Civali by only 98 points. Ronnie Silk is breathing down Civali’s neck as he is only down 9 points. Matt Hirschman rounds out the top five. Hirschman is 114 points behind Szegedy and still has an outside shot at finishing in the runner-up spot. Sixth through tenth are Ted Christopher, Mike Stefanik, Jimmy Blewett, Jamie Tomaino and Eddie Flemke JR. In Whelen Modified Tour news rumor has it that Ed Cox may retire as the Tour Director. His replacement is rumored to be former Nextel Cup driver Chad Little. Currently employed by NASCAR, Little is currently the sanctioning body’s Director of Racing Development in Mexico. MORE>>

10-02-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified converged on the Stafford Motor Speedway last weekend for the annual Fall Final. There were 39 Modifieds on hand for qualifying. Eric Beers who has not been a tour regular this year was the Busch Pole sitter as he toured the half-mile oval in 18.267 second fastest. Second fastest was Doug Coby who was pinch-hitting for Dick Houlihan. Current point leader Donny Lia was third fastest. Rounding out the top five in time trials were Todd Szegedy and Ronnie Silk. The re-draw for starting positions for the 150 lap Fall Final saw Szegedy picking the pole with Lia picking the outside pole. Don Lia knew he needed to finish ninth or better to wrap up the championship for himself and car owner Bob Garbarino. He did it with two positions to spare as he finished seventh. Lia led only one lap and was content to pace himself and stay out of trouble as Mike Stefanik went on to take the win. Stefanik passed Matt Hirschman on lap 91 to take the lead. Ted Christopher followed but was shuffled back to third spot on lap 115 after a bump and grind with Tony Hirschman. MORE>>

09-25-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour headed back to Thompson last weekend to complete the Modified Mania weekend that was cut short by rain on September 9. As the weekend approached it appeared that NASCAR was dragging its feet as far as declaring officially who was the winner of the recent event at Loudon on September 15. Todd Szegedy had taken the apparent win when NASCAR decided to take a closer look at his intake manifold before making an official decision. It took five days to make a decision as it was announced late last Thursday that the part in question was declared legal and the win would stand. MORE>>

09-18-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour was at the New Hampshire International Speedway for their second of two visits for 2007. Forty NASCAR Modifieds were on hand for the 100 mile event that carried a $164,095 purse. Former series champion Todd Szegedy took the Busch pole as he toured the semi-banked oval in 29.725 seconds to the tune of 128.135 MPH. Second fastest and taking the outside pole position was Ron Yuhas JR. Yuhas’ speed was 128.018 MPH. Series point leader Don Lia was third with Tony Hirschman, fourth. Rounding out the top five was JJ Yeley who drove a car that was assembled at Dale Earnhardt Inc in North Carolina and painted up to resemble the Modified driven by the late Tom Baldwin. MORE>>

09-04-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour traveled to Martinsville, VA last weekend. Donny Lia got the victory of a lifetime in the Made In American Whelen 300 at Martinsville Speedway. Lia held off Ted Christopher for the win in the race, which is the annual combination event between the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and the NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour. Not only did the victory further solidify Lia’s Whelen Modified Tour points lead, it came two weeks after his friend and fellow driver John Blewett III passed away following a racing accident. John’s brother Jimmy won the Made In American Whelen 300 in 2006. After sitting out a week, Jimmy Blewett returned Saturday. He finished 43rd after engine problems. It was Lia’s sixth win of the Whelen Modified Tour season and he improved his points lead to 193 over Todd Szegedy with four races remaining. MORE>>

08-28-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour traveled to the mid-west, Mansfield, Ohio to be exact. The entire area had been under siege from heavy rains and tornado threats but the event went on as scheduled. That is until lap 108 when the race was called after repeated attempts to dry a rain soaked track. With his brother serving as his spotter and tracking the weather on his cell phone, James Civali elected not to pit with the leaders and was out front when NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour officials called the rain-shortened Mansfield 150 at Mansfield Motorsports Park. Doug Coby, driving the Mansfield CT based No.77 of Curt Chase, finished second and rookie Woody Pitkat was third. Point leader and Budweiser Pole Award winner Donny Lia was fourth and Eric Beers fifth. Ronnie Silk, Matt Hirschman, Ted Christopher, Todd Szegedy and Bobby Grigas III rounded out the top 10. MORE>>

08-21-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour was at the Thompson Speedway on Thursday night for the running of the annual BUDWEISER 150 presented by the New England Dodge Dealers. In what was to be a festive night of good hard racing the night turned to be one of sadness as John Blewett III lost his life while battling for the lead with his brother Jimmy. As close to 8,000 fans looked on the Blewett brothers tangled following a restart on lap 107 of the 150-lap race. Jimmy’s car, owned by Eddie Partridge, came to rest on top of John’s family owned mount. It appeared that John lost his life when a bumper came through the window helmet and struck his head. Earlier in the evening during the Sunoco Modified feature Jimmy Blewett hit the front stretch hard as he dueled with brother John for the start. Jimmy's car was towed off the track. MORE>>

08-14-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour started the weekend of on a wet note as rain washed out the scheduled event at Stafford on Friday. The entire event was rescheduled for Saturday night. Ted Christopher ended an almost year long dry spell as he won the event over Todd Szegedy and Mike Stefanik. It was Christopher’s seventh win at the track where he is the all-time winning-est driver and the points leader in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series’ SK Modified Division. But it was his first trip to Victory Lane on the Whelen Modified Tour since Aug. 17, 2006 at Thompson (Conn.). MORE>>

07-24-07: Here we go again! The Waterford Speedbowl, thanks to the non payments of property owner Terry Eames, is scheduled to go up for foreclosure this coming Saturday, July 28. A sign posted on the property frontage indicates that the sale will take place at high noon. Anyone interested would need a $300,000 bank or certified check to participate. A year ago the Washington Mutual Bank filed a lawsuit claiming that the track's owner, Terry Eames, had failed to make payments on a $1.7 million loan held by the Seattle-based savings bank. The lawsuit, Washington Mutual vs. 1080 Hartford et al., has continued through this year, with several legal motions occurring during April and May. Eames has also failed to pay the town of Waterford more than $185,000 in taxes owed dating back to 2003. Eames is smart as he has shielded himself by an LLC titled 1080 Hartford Road LLC, a reference to its street address. In other words if he does lose the property he can walk away and thumb his nose at those he owes. MORE>>

07-17-07: The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour competitors are now on their mid-summer break. Their next event will be a “Flash Format” contest at the Riverhead Raceway on Long Island on Saturday night, August 4. Donny Lia, who has won four of the seven events run so far this season, leads the series’ point standings with a 53 point edge over Matt Hirschman. Lia is also the top money winner with $43,300 in the bank. Todd Szegedy, who had been in second spot, slipped to third. James Civali, with two wins, sits in fourth spot with Ron Silk rounding out the top five. Sixth through tenth are Jimmy Blewett, Ted Christopher, Mike Stefanik, Ed Flemke Jr and Jamie Tomaino. Fifty-seven different drivers have entered into competition so far. MORE>

07-03-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour made it’s first of two visits to the New Hampshire International Speedway last weekend. Speedway owner and promoter Bob Bahre posted $164, 095 for the 100 lap-105.8 mile event. There were 40 Modifieds on hand for qualifying which took place on Thursday. With the exception of John Blewett III having mechanical problems and having to take a provisional starting spot, qualifying went smooth. Ted Christopher took the Busch Pole with a speed of 126.812mph. Second fastest was Donnie Lia with a speed of 126.795 mph. Jimmy Blewett, Matt Hirschman and Eddie Flemke Jr rounded out the top five. Sixth through tenth were Tony Hirschman, Charlie Pasteryak, Bob Grigas III, Ronnie Silk and Glen Tyler. MORE>>

06-26-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour got back into action last Thursday night at the Thompson Speedway with the Charter Cable, Internet, Telephone 150. This wasl be the second of five Whelen Modified tour events. There were 38 Modifieds on hand to qualify for the 35 starting spots. Second generation driver Richard Savory, driving the Art Barry No. 21 was the Busch Pole sitter. Second fastest was Don Lia in the Bob Garbarino Mystic Missile. The re-draw for starting spots saw Ryan Preece picking the pole position with James Civali picking the outside pole. Lia ended up winning the rain shortened event after taking the lead on lap 34. Rain began to fall as the field completed lap 80 of the 150 lap distance. The field circled the 5/8 mile oval under caution for 20 more laps when the event was finally called. Among those who were hoping to restart the event was Ted Christopher who felt that he had something for the leader. Christopher, who was scheduled to start ninth, started scratch after suffering a flat tire just prior to the event. Christopher drove a determined race and was in the process of putting himself into position to challenge the leader when the skies opened up. MORE>>

06-19-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour gets back into action this Thursday night at the Thompson Speedway with the Charter Cable, Internet, Telephone 150. This will be the second of five Whelen Modified tour events to be featured at the historic Connecticut oval. Grandstands will open at 2 PM and Whelen Modified Tour Time Trials will be held at 5:45 PM . The 150-lap main event or the “Tour” is slated to roll off at 8:30 PM. Joining the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour will be Thompson’s NASCAR Whelen All American Series divisions in feature only appearances. All six of these divisions will be part of the special night of competition at Thompson. The big news of the week is that Woody Pitkat has been named as the driver of the Hillbilly Racing No.79. Pitkat replaces Chuck Hossfeld. MORE>>

06-12-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour continues to regroup before returning to action next Thursday, June 21. Among the biggest news items to come out of the tour ranks is that Chuck Hossfeld has been released from his driving duties of the Hillbilly Racing No. 79 that is owned by Roger and Sandra Hill of Westfield, NC. Hossfeld has been the teams driver since the beginning of the 2006 season. Team owner Roger Hill says that a new driver will be in place in time for the upcoming Thompson event. Car owner Gary Teto is spearheading an effort to get NASCAR to revamp their race format for upcoming “Flash Events” at the Twin State Speedway in New Hampshire and at the Riverhead Raceway on Long Island . NASCAR came up with the “Flash” format to make events more affordable for speedways and competitors. The format was tried at the recent Whelen Tour event at the Wall Township Speedway in New Jersey . The result was thousands of dollars worth of damage to the series’ cars. Teto proposes that NASCAR use Don Hoenig’s suggestion of running a single consolation to fill out the fields after the top 20 has qualified by time. Hopefully NASCAR will give it a try. MORE>>

06-05-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour regroups for a couple more weeks before coming alive for their “Summer Session” which begins on Thursday, June 21 at the Thompson Int. Speedway. Jimmy Blewett holds a slim three point lead over James Civali. Two points behind Civali is Matt Hirschman. Blewett and Civali have won, Hirschman has not. Donny Lia with two wins to his credit sits in fourth spot, thirteen points behind Hirschman. Rounding out the top five is Todd Szegedy. Sixth through tenth are Zach Sylvester, Jerry Marquis, Mike Stefanik, Ronnie Silk and Jamie Tomaino. The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Series continues to be strong as 52 different drivers have entered into competition in four events. MORE>>

05-29-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour traveled to the Stafford Motor Speedway last Friday night, May 25 for the 17th annual Connecticut Classic 150. Donnie Lia, in the Bob Garbarino Mystic Missile made it two in a row at the Arute family owned facility. There were 42 Modifieds on hand for the 150 lap contest. Lia started sixth and took the lead on lap 113 from Eric Beers. James Civali, who started on the pole finished second. Eddie Flemke Jr finished third with Zach Sylvester and Todd Szegedy rounding out the top five. Ted Christopher started third and was the top lap leader as he led 84 circuits. His night came to an end after he wrecked with Frank Ruocco in the third turn on lap 91. Christopher blamed Mike Stefanik for the incident. Reggie Ruggerio and John Blewett III were eliminated in a big wreck on lap 104. Defending champion and Busch Pole Sitter Tony Hirschman continues to have bad luck as he was eliminated on lap 114. Likewise for Chuck Hossfeld who lost a wheel on lap 31. MORE>>

05-22-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Series is at the end of their “Spring Break” as they head for their second stop at the Stafford Motorspeedway this coming Friday night, May 25 for the 17th annual Connecticut Classic 150. Tickets are priced at $30.00 for adult general admission, children ages 6-14 are $5.00, and children ages 5 & under are admitted free. Reserved seat tickets are available for $32.00 for all ages. Thursday Night Thunder at the Thompson Speedway begins this week. The popular weekly race program will present six divisions of NASCAR Whelen All American Series racing Thursday nights well into the month of September. Thursday Night Thompson Thunder has become a fan favorite due to the large fields of racecars and the extremely fast paced program. Fans are usually headed home by about 9:30 PM after enjoying a full card of racing from all six exciting divisions. MORE>>

05-15-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Series is in the middle of their “Spring Break”. The Whelen Modified Tour heads back to the Stafford Motor Speedway on Friday night, May 25. Jimmy Blewett, who drives for Long Island car owner Eddie Partridge sits atop the point standings with a 31 point lead over second generation driver Matt Hirschman. In three starts Blewett has three top tens including one win. Hirschman, the son of multi-time Whelen Modified Champion Tony Hirschman also has three top tens but is winless so far. James Civali, who won the Thompson Speedway Ice Breaker, sits in third spot, 49 points behind the leader. Todd Szegedy and Chuck Hossfeld round out the top five. Sixth through tenth are Donny Lia, Jerry Marquis, Ronnie Silk, Mike Stefanik and Billy Pauch Jr. In three events, fifty one different competitors have entered into competition. MORE>>

05-01-07: The 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Series headed to the Stafford Motor Speedway last weekend. The track opened on Friday despite heavy rains that cancelled weekly racing division practice sessions. Forty-two Modifieds were on hand for practice and qualifying on Saturday. Second generation driver Matt Hirschman took the Busch Pole winner as he toured the half mile oval at 45/100th of a second faster then his father, Tony, in qualifying. Tony Hirschman, a five-time series champion, averaged 99.701 mph in his qualifying run. Reggie Ruggiero of Rocky Hill, Conn. was third fastest with a speed of 99.673 mph. Thompson Ice Breaker winner, James Civali, was fourth fastest with a speed of 99.448 mph. Ted Christopher rounded out the Top-5 in qualifying with a speed of 99.179 mph. The Top-8 qualifiers drew for starting position. Tony Hirschman drew the pole and was joined by Ruggiero on the front row. Civali and Matt Hirschman made up row number two. MORE>>

04-10-07: The Waterford Speedbowl was slated to begin its regular Saturday night schedule this past week. Fans and competitors are still buzzing about the poor officiating at the recent Bud Nationals, especially the Jimmy Blewett incident. A ten shot photo series by noted photographer Howie Hodge tells the story. Doug Coby got into the back of Frank Ruocco as they exited turn two. Blewett, running in fourth spot at the time went low to avoid the car of Ruocco only to be hit accidentally by Ruocco. Jimmy Blewett was below the white line when Ruocco’s left front tire hit Blewett’s nerf bar. As stated previously it was a bad call! A video by Nick Teto verified what really took place and what the Waterford on-track officials failed to acknowledge. Extremely bone chilling temperatures put a damper on the Speedbowl last weekend as racing was cancelled on Friday. MO