BRIDGEPORT PREPARES FOR WILD CARD WEEKEND

811 SPIRIT_SPEEDWAY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


The Bridgeport Speedway will complete the 2016 season with the running of the Wild Card Weekend with support from season sponsors, Colonial Pipeline with their 8-1-1 Call Before You Dig campaign and Spirit Auto Center.

 

Colonial Pipeline will take center stage on Friday night at the 358 Small Block Modifieds and PennCo Tech Outlaw Stocks take to the 5/8th mile track.  With $3,000 to win up for grabs in the small block modifieds, a full field of competitors is expected.  2016 Bridgeport Champion, Ryan Watt was the winner when the small block modifieds last competed on Bridgeport’s 5/8 mile track but he will have plenty of challengers like Dominick Buffalino, Ron Roberts, Brett Kressley, Duane Howard, Jeff Strunk, Craig VonDohren and Bridgeport’s Winningest driver, Jimmy Horton.  The PennCo Tech Outlaw Stocks will compete in their fourth hand of the 811 Dig Safely Poker Series with Bridgeport Champion, TJ Henry leading the field that is sure to include Tom Wills, Jr., Scott Dugan, Brian Ludwig and more.  Racing gets underway at 7:15.

 

As the title sponsor of Bridgeport’s 2016 Poker Series, Colonial Pipeline asks that anyone taking part in an excavation activity call 811 three working days before their planned project. By doing so all utility’s within their project limits will be notified and have adequate time to mark-out their utility’s location with paint, flags or stakes. Then you the excavator will be aware of each utility’s location and can begin your digging activity’s safely. That’s why it is important for both the public and contractors alike to follow the law and to always call 811 before they you begin any digging project!  Be safe – dial 8-1-1 first!

 

There will be some added incentives this weekend for competitors displaying the 811 logo, courtesy of Colonial Pipeline.  $100 Visa gift cards will be awarded in each of the three divisions – Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman and Outlaw Stocks – to the winner of the feature in each division and to a random driver who does not finish among the frontrunners.  There will also be some special prizes for some lucky fans.  Fans are asked to visit the Colonial Pipeline 811 Dig Safely tent before the racing gets underway on Friday night to check out all of the event details.

 

On Saturday, Spirit Auto Center takes center stage for the final event of the season. 

Since 1991, Spirit Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram has been serving the South Jersey area.  Their dealership is family owned and operated and in their second generation of ownership where the goal is to create a fun, relaxed car buying experience for all of their customers.  Members of Spirit’s friendly staff will be on hand to greet fans and answer any questions they may have about the cars, jeeps and trucks that we will have on display. 

 

Spirit Auto Center joined forces with the Bridgeport Speedway this season in promoting the quarter mile Spirit Auto Center Speedway as well as being the sponsor of the headlining, Big Block Modifieds. 

 

Racing will get underway on Saturday at 4pm with the Spirit Auto Center Big Block Modifieds, Stewart Stainless Crate Sportsman and PennCo Tech Outlaw Stocks, all competing in their final, wild card hands for the 2016 811 Dig Safely Poker Series. 

 

The Big Block Modifieds will close out their season with a forty lap, Gone But Not Forgotten that will pay $4,000 to the race winner.  The Crate/Sportsman will compete in a twenty lap final with the Outlaw Stocks circling the track for fifteen circuits. 

 

Duane Howard leads the Big Blocks into the final night of competition with a pair of Aces and a ten to Rick Laubach’s pair of Queens and a ten.  Dominick Buffalino and Sam Martz have each won a single event and an Ace but haven’t been able to collect the right cards to go with their Ace.  Such is the case for Ryan Godown and Wade Hendrickson who each have a second place finish (King) to their credit.  But 2016 Bridgeport Track Champion, Ryan Watt, is sitting with the best outside chance – just one card away from a straight – that would ruin everyone else’s night of cards. 

 

Two Crate/Sportsman competitors are holding hands of Three of a Kind.  Stephen Kemery, the 2015 Rookie Champion, has collected three tens and an eight while Clyde Cox holds three-sevens and a five.  Scott Hulmes has a pair of deuces.

 

The Outlaw Stocks will compete in both Friday and Saturday night events, adding two more cards to their hands.  2016 Track Champion, TJ Henry leads the way with a pair of Aces and a Queen while Scott Dugan holds a pair of tens and a King, Billy Wroble has a pair of nines and an eight and Jeff Dirkes has a pair of eights and a nine.  Tom Wills, Jr. could be the spoiler as Wills goes into the final weekend with a King, Queen and Jack and the potential for a straight. 

 

In addition to the racing action, the Bridgeport Speedway provides plenty of activities for the entire family.  There’s the Bounce House, basketball and volleyball.  There will be musical entertainment before and during the racing program.  All of the Bridgeport Speedway concession stands will be open to provide everything from cool beverages to snacks or a full meal.  Take home a Bridgeport Speedway t-shirt or pick up a copy of the Bridgeport Bullet – the official Bridgeport Speedway program and catch up on the action.  Take a ride with the Bridgeport Bandit on the Bandit Bus and get to see the drivers and crews prepare for the night’s racing action.

 

Make your plans to take in Bridgeport’s final event of the 2016 season.  You won’t be disappointed!

 

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811 DIG SAFELY POKER SERIES ON TAP FOR BRIDGEPORT’S FINAL WEEKEND

 

 

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Colonial Pipeline’s 811 Dig Safely Poker Series will wrap up the 2016 schedule at the Bridgeport Speedway on Friday and Saturday, November 11th and 12th.

 

The Poker Series has become one of the most popular events during the course of the racing season since it was introduced to the Logan Township speed plant during the 2012 season by the late, Doug Hoffman.  Drivers earn the cards for the Poker hands based upon their finish in a series of select races.  A win gives a driver an Ace, a second a King, a third a Queen and so on.  The drivers with the top three hands as well as the driver with the worst hand at the end of the Poker Series win additional prize money.

 

In 2016 Colonial Pipeline asks that anyone taking part in an excavation activity call 811 three working days before their planned project. By doing so all utility’s within their project limits will be notified and have adequate time to mark-out their utility’s location with paint, flags or stakes. Then you the excavator will be aware of each utility’s location and can begin your digging activity’s safely. That’s why it is important for both the public and contractors alike to follow the law and to always call 811 before they you begin any digging project!  Be safe – dial 8-1-1 first!

 

 

Colonial Pipeline has added some extra exciting incentives for this final weekend.  $100 VISA gift cards will be awarded to eligible drivers in each division – Spirit Auto Center Big Block Modifieds, Stewart Stainless Crate/Sportsman and PennCo Tech Outlaw Stocks.  The winner of the feature top finisher in each division, who has met the sponsor’s requirements of placing an 811 decal on their race car and posting a picture of it to Facebook or Twitter prior to the required deadline will be awarded a $100 VISA gift card!  The feature winner will also pull a random number in victory lane and a lucky participate finishing elsewhere in the field will also receive a $100 VISA dollar gift card!

 

 

Colonial Pipeline is also offering some special prizes for some lucky fans.   Fans are asked to post photos of themselves with one of several 811 Dig Safely logos that can be found around the speedway on Friday night.  Photos must be posted to Facebook or Twitter.  Prizes will include a future night of you choosing in a Skybox, a Colonial Pipeline prize bags, an autographed die cast , a gift and cards for a local restaurants. resident.  Details will be available during Friday night’s event as you come through the gate and at the Colonial Pipeline 811 Dig Safely tent.  Fans are invitedthroughout the evening to visit the Colonials display tent for more free giveaways and also free hot dogs with all the fixings!

 

 

Duane Howard leads the Big Blocks into the final night of competition with a pair of Aces and a ten to Rick Laubach’s pair of Queens and a ten.  Dominick Buffalino and Sam Martz have each won a single event and an Ace but haven’t been able to collect the right cards to go with their Ace.  Such is the case for Ryan Godown and Wade Hendrickson who each have a second place finish (King) to their credit.  But 2016 Bridgeport Track Champion, Ryan Watt, is sitting with the best outside chance – just one card away from a straight – that would ruin everyone else’s night of cards.

 

 

Two Crate/Sportsman competitors are holding hands of Three of a Kind.  Stephen Kemery, the 2015 Rookie Champion, has collected three tens and an eight while Clyde Cox holds three-sevens and a five.  Scott Hulmes has a pair of deuces.

 

 

The Outlaw Stocks will compete in both Friday and Saturday night events, adding two more cards to their hands.  2016 Track Champion, TJ Henry leads the way with a pair of Aces and a Queen while Scott Dugan holds a pair of tens and a King, Billy Wroble has a pair of nines and an eight and Jeff Dirkes has a pair of eights and a nine.  Tom Wills, Jr. could be the spoiler as Wills goes into the final weekend with a King, Queen and Jack and the potential for a straight.

 

 

Make your plans to take in Bridgeport’s final event of the 2016 season.  You won’t be disappointed!

 

 

Upcoming event 

Saturday & Sunday, November 4 & 5 – URC/360 Sprints Big Track Classic plus Crate/Sportsman Showdown

Friday, November 11 – Wild Card Weekend – 358 Small Blocks & Outlaw Stocks plus practice sessions for Saturday’s events

Saturday, November 12 – Gone But Not Forgotten – 811 Dig Safely Poker Series Hand #5 – Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman & Outlaw Stocks

BRIDGEPORT & URC PAY TRIBUTE TO MIDGE MILLER THIS WEEKEND

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The Bridgeport Speedway joins forces with the United Racing Club to present the URC Big Track Classic with support from Michalski Heating & Air when the cars take to the 5/8 mile speedway on both Friday and Saturday evenings, November 4th and 5th.

The URC/360 sprints will compete in qualifying events and a twenty-five lap feature event on both days with a very special trophy to be presented to the driver with the best point average for the two day event.  

Midge Miller was a second generation racer who competed with URC after a very successful career racing midgets – a passion that he inherited from his father, Carl Miller, Sr.  The son prepared his father’s rides until he was old enough to get into the cockpit and race himself at the age of twenty-one.  Miller collected several midget championships before moving into sprint car competition in 1985.

Miller was well liked and respected by his fellow competitors.  He served as an officer with URC and then later became a tech inspector for the organization.  According to nine time URC Champion, Curt Michael, Miller performed his official duties the same way he raced – “very prepared.”

“I always had a lot of respect for Midge and the way he ran is race team,” Michael explained.  “He always had one of the best looking cars.  Midge and his team took pride in having his car prepared and very clean-looking” – something Michael aspires to do with his own team. 

“On the track, Midge was a clean driver that tried to finish all of the races so that he could come back and race again next week,” Michael added.  He was usually successful. 

Cold Hard Art has been charged with creating the trophy for this event – the Midge Miller Memorial Trophy to be presented on be half of Pioneer Auto Body. 

A full field of cars is expected for this two day event.  2014 Champion, Davie Franek hopes to secure his second URC title with a strong showing at Bridgeport where he opened the 2016 season with a win.  Curt Michael has always run well at Bridgeport and looking for a good weekend to complete his 2016 season.  For the first time in many seasons, Michael will be joined by his brother and former URC Champion, Sean Michael who will climb behind the wheel for the first time since 2009.

Josh Weller has had an outstanding 2016 season and has collected a Bridgeport victory during the Three for All program.  Ryan Stillwaggon, who has seen considerable success in 305 Sprint Car action at Bridgeport, will be driving the Fred Kennedy No. 89 while his brother continues to recuperate from an injury sustained earlier in the season.  Troy Betts, Chris Coyle, Davey Sammons, Justin Barger, Dave Brown, Mark Smith and Lucas Wolfe are just a few of the drivers who are expected to compete for the Midge Miller Memorial trophy. 

The Stewart Stainless Crate Sportsman will be part the weekend’s race card.  Multiple timed hot lap sessions will be held for the Crate/Sportsman on Friday evening with the fastest Sportsman and fastest Crate competitor being locked into the redraw for Saturday night’s twenty-five lap main event that will pay $1,250 to the winner with $200 to take the green.  Qualifying races will be completed during Saturday’s competition to determine the starting line-up. 

A special event has been added to Friday night’s race card – The Underdog 20.  This race is open to any non-winning Crate Sportsman driver who has not won a feature event at any speedway during the 2016 season. 

Racing action gets underway at 7:30pm on Friday with a 5pm start for Saturday’s events.

In addition to the racing action, the Bridgeport Speedway provides plenty of activities for the entire family.  There’s the Bounce House, basketball and volleyball.  There will be musical entertainment before and during the racing program.  All of the Bridgeport Speedway concession stands will be open to provide everything from cool beverages to snacks or a full meal.  Take home a Bridgeport Speedway t-shirt or pick up a copy of the Bridgeport Bullet – the official Bridgeport Speedway program and catch up on the action.  Take a ride with the Bridgeport Bandit on the Bandit Bus and get to see the drivers and crews prepare for the night’s racing action.

Upcoming event 

Saturday & Sunday, November 4 & 5 – URC/360 Sprints Big Track Classic plus Crate/Sportsman Showdown

Friday, November 11 – Wild Card Weekend – 358 Small Blocks, TSRS Sprint Cars, Outlaw Stocks plus practice for Saturday

Saturday, November 12 – Gone But Not Forgotten – 811 Dig Safely Poker Series Hand #5 – Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman & Outlaw Stocks

Bridgeport adds “Underdog 20” for Crate/Sportsman division on Friday night

Bridgeport adds “Underdog 20” for Crate/Sportsman division on Friday night

Friday and Saturday November 4 & 5 will mark the first ever Big Track Classic Weekend for the URC Sprint Cars and Crate/Sportsman. The 360 sprints will compete in the Midge Miller Tribute Races on both nights while the Crate/Sportsman will face off in the “Showdown” on Saturday. Just added to the Friday night schedule will be the “Underdog 20” for the Crate/Sportsman racers.

The “Underdog 20” is an open invite for any drivers that have not won a feature event in 2016. If a driver has visited victory lane in 2016 at Bridgeport, New Egypt, Grandview, Big Diamond, Georgetown, Delaware Int., OCFS, or any other speedway they are not eligible for the “Underdog 20”. “Quite a few drivers have asked us over the years about having a race of this format for the racers. I think this is a perfect time to hold an event like this on Friday night,” offered General Manager Danny Serrano. “There are so many drivers that have been so close in getting to victory lane but unfortunately have just missed out. So Friday’s their chance to stand tall in the spotlight on the night before their big race,” Serrano added. The top 3 finishing positions will place in the cash along with the winner receiving a trophy.

The Crate/Sportsman will still go on the clock as scheduled several times throughout the evening as the fastest 602 Crate and the fastest Sportsman will lock into Saturday’s “Showdown” redraw. The timed hot laps will be open to ALL competitors. Gates open 4pm Friday with hot laps starting at 6:45. The first green flag will wave at 7:15.

BRIDGERPORT SPEEDWAY PRESENTS FIRST URC/360 SPRINTS BIG TRACK CLASSIC

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The Bridgeport Speedway is preparing for its first United Racing Club/360 Sprints Big Track Classic coming to the Logan Township speed plant on Friday and Saturday, November 4th and 5th honoring the late, great competitor and URC official, Midge Miller for the First Annual Midge Miller Memorial.

Racing will get underway at 7:30pm on Friday night with the winged 360 machines take to the track for qualifying before competing in a twenty-five lap main event that will pay $2,000 to the winning driver. The sprint cars will compete in a second complete show on Saturday with the first green flag waving at 5pm.   Saturday’s twenty-five lap main event will reward the race winner with a $3,000 payday.  At the end of the two days of competition, the driver with the best overall point average will receive a trophy honoring Midge Miller.

Midge Miller grew up around racing.  The son of a successful midget driver, Carl Miller, Sr., Midge worked at maintaining his father’s cars until he reached the age of twenty-one and was able to get behind the wheel himself.  The second generation racer collected several midget titles including two championships with the Super Midget Racing Club – an organization started by his father and Dutch Schaeffer.

In 1985, Midge Miller bought his first sprint car and raced with the United Racing Club as time and money allowed.  His only win came with URC at the Bridgeport Speedway on September 8, 2001.  Miller served as a Vice President for URC as well as a tech inspector in the years following his retirement from racing.  Miller passed away in May of 2013.

A very special trophy is being prepared by Cold Hard Art/20% Skill, 80% Imagination and will be presented on be half of Pioneer Auto Body.

Lap money and contingency prizes will also be awarded including a right rear tire courtesy of Hoosier Tires for both Friday and Saturday.

The Stewart Stainless Crate Sportsman division will also see action during this event.  The Crate Sportsman will have a timed hot lap session on Friday night with the fastest Sportsman and fastest Crate competitor each being locked in to the redraw for Saturday night’s twenty-five lap feature.  Qualifying will be completed during Saturday’s race card with $1,250 going to the feature winner.  This event will pay $200 to take the green flag with two $100 bonuses paid to the to two finishing Crate competitors in the twenty-five lap main event.

Camping will be available at the Bridgeport Speedway free of charge but no hookups are available.  URC is planning for some post-race activities on Friday evening following the racing events.

Pit gates will open at 4pm on Friday with the grandstand gates swinging open to race fans by 6pm.  On Saturday, the pits will be available at 1pm with the grandstands gates opening at 3pm.

In addition to the racing action, the Bridgeport Speedway provides plenty of activities for the entire family.  There’s the Bounce House, basketball and volleyball.  There will be musical entertainment before and during the racing program.  All of the Bridgeport Speedway concession stands will be open to provide everything from cool beverages to snacks or a full meal.  Take home a Bridgeport Speedway t-shirt or pick up a copy of the Bridgeport Bullet – the official Bridgeport Speedway program and catch up on the action.  Take a ride with the Bridgeport Bandit on the Bandit Bus and get to see the drivers and crews prepare for the night’s racing action.

The Bridgeport Speedway is committed to maintaining a safe, fun, family atmosphere, creating life-lasting memories

 

Upcoming event 

Saturday & Sunday, November 4 & 5 – URC/360 Sprints Big Track Classic plus Crate/Sportsman Showdown

Friday, November 11 – Wild Card Weekend – 358 Small Blocks, TSRS Sprint Cars, Outlaw Stocks plus practice for Saturday

Saturday, November 12 – Gone But Not Forgotten – 811 Dig Safely Poker Series Hand #5 – Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman & Outlaw Stocks

THE MISFITS GET DOWN & DIRTY IN BRIDGEPORT FALL EVENT

 

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If you are the owner of a 4×4 vehicle, then maybe this weekend is the time for you to get out of the grandstands and behind the wheel when the Bridgeport Speedway presents the Misfits 4×4 Fall Down & Dirty Weekend this Saturday and Sunday.  It’s a show, shine and swap meet all wrapped up in one!

 

Bring your trucks, bring your friends – bring your friends’ trucks and be ready to play and have a blast!  There is something for everybody at the Bridgeport Speedway this weekend!

 

The events get underway at noon at Saturday but gates open at ten.  The play area opens at noon with time slots allotted to trucks, jeeps, side by sides, and a freestyle session.   At 5pm there will be a burnout contest sponsored by First Choice Tire.  There will be trophies presented in twelve different categories including Best Rat Rod, Best Halloween Theme truck of car, Best Club participation, Best Jeep, Best Mega Truck, and more!

 

There will be a show and shine area for trucks, cars and bikes.  Bring your spare parts or used cars for the swap meet.  An area will also be set up for vendors throughout the day.

 

A demolition derby is scheduled for 7pm with a final session in the play area for the trucks from 8-9pm.

 

You can come back and do it all over again on Sunday when the play area opens at 10am.

 

And there is something for every member of your family!  There will be two bounce houses for the kids.  There will be live music and a DJ both days.  The Mopar 1 Monster Ride Truck will be on hand. The concession stands will be open.  There will be tickets on sale for the 50/50 drawing.

 

Campers will be welcome on Saturday night!

 

The Bridgeport Speedway has earned a reputation for our play areas and this one will not disappoint!  This play area will be bad to the bone.  All money raised in the play area for this event will be donated to Beat Dystonia.

 

There will be a wide, deep, chewy mud pit, a mild obstacle course as well as a WILD ONE!  Look for the car crush, an RTI ramp as well as a burnout area and a donut area.

 

General admission is $10 per day or $17 for the weekend.  Truck entries are $15 for just one day of $25 for the weekend.  Entries include the driver as well as the show & shine.

 

Check Facebook or our web site for schedule of events.

 

 

 

Upcoming event 

 

Saturday & Sunday, October 15 & 16 – Misfits 4×4 Fall Down & Dirty Weekend plus Demo Derby, 7pm Saturday

Saturday & Sunday, November 4 & 5 – URC/360 Sprints Big Track Classic plus Crate/Sportsman Showdown

Friday, November 11 – Wild Card Weekend – 358 Small Blocks, TSRS Sprint Cars, Outlaw Stocks plus practice for Saturday

Saturday, November 12 – Gone But Not Forgotten – 811 Dig Safely Poker Series Hand #5 – Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman & Outlaw Stocks

811 DIG SAFELY BONUS HAND PRESENTED BY COLONIAL PIPELINE AT THE BRIDGEPORT SPEEDWAY

 

 

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The Bridgeport Speedway will present the bonus hand of the 811 Dig Safely 2016 Poker Series presented by Colonial Pipeline on Saturday, October 1st.  This race is an opportunity for drivers to improve their Poker Series hands by giving them a “bonus” card that can be used to replace another card in their hand.  The bonus card can only help a driver – not hurt his chances.

 

Colonial Pipeline came on board as the title sponsor of Bridgeport’s 2016 Poker Series.  Colonial Pipeline asks that you call 8-1-1 befire you dig!  Colonial’s pipelines are buried underground, usually with a minimum of three feet of cover.  Over time, however, erosion and human activiites can change that depth.  That’s why it is important to always call 811 before you begin any digging project!  Be safe – dial 8-1-1 first!  Make sure you check out Colonial Pipelines tent as you walk in for all kinds of giveaway’s and goodies.

 

The Spirit Auto Center Big Block Modifieds, the Stewart Stainless Crate/Sportsman and PennCo Tech Outlaw Stocks will compete in qualifying races and feature events with all drivers trying to gain a key card for the Poker hands.

 

Duane Howard and Rick Laubach lead the Poker Series for the Big Blocks.  Howard has a pair of Aces for his two wins while Laubach sports a pair of Kings for his two runner-up finishes.  However, 2016 Bridgeport Champion, Ryan Watt, Jordan Watson, Brett Kressley and Richie Pratt Jr. are all working on straights and could upset Howard and/or Laubach with the right finish.

 

In Crate/Sportsman competition, 2015 Rookie Champion, Stephen Kemery leads the way with three 10s for his three fifth place finishes.  Clyde Cox follows with three sevens.  Scott Hulmes holds a pair of twos while Matt Stangle and Pete Visconti have each collected an Ace for the wins in past events.

 

The Outlaw Stock competitors have only complete three Poker Series events.  They will close out the series with two eligible events on the final race weekend in mid-November.  So far, 2016 Champion, TJ Henry leads the competition with a pair of Aces and a Queen.  Scott Dugan follows closely with a pair of tens.  Billy Wroble has a pair of nines and Jeff Dirkes holds a pair of eights while Ron Frees and Tom Wills, Jr. each hold an Ace for their wins.

 

October 1st will be a full Saturday night of racing action with plenty of activities for the entire family.  There’s the Bounce House, basketball and volleyball.  There will be musical entertainment before and during the racing program.  Colonial Pipeline will also be on hand educating the fans on what it means to “Call 811 Before You Dig.”  Colonial will have a tent set up where they will be giving away gourmet hotdogs, gift certificates, t-shirts and apparel, and all kinds of other prizes to the fans as they walk into the gate.  All of the Bridgeport Speedway concession stands will be open to provide everything from cool beverages to snacks or a full meal.  Take home a Bridgeport Speedway t-shirt or pick up a copy of the Bridgeport Bullet – the official Bridgeport Speedway program and catch up on the action from the King of the Big Blocks weekend!  Take a ride with the Bridgeport Bandit on the Bandit Bus and get to see the drivers and crews prepare for the night’s racing action.

 

Racing action gets underway at 6pm.

 

The Bridgeport Speedway is committed to maintaining a safe, fun, family atmosphere, creating life-lasting memories.

 

 

Upcoming event 

Saturday, October 1 – 811 Dig Safe Poker Series Bonus Hand  Presented by Colonial Pipeline – Big Block Modifies, Crate/Sportsman, Outlaw Stocks & Powder Puff Races on the 1/4 mile

Saturday & Sunday, October 15 & 16 – Misfits 4×4 Fall Down & Dirty Weekend plus Demo Derby, 7pm Saturday

Saturday & Sunday, November 4 & 5 – URC/360 Sprints Big Track Classic plus Crate/Sportsman Showdown

Friday, November 11 – Wild Card Weekend – 358 Small Blocks, TSRS Sprint Cars, Outlaw Stocks plus practice for Saturday

Saturday, November 12 – Gone But Not Forgotten – 811 Dig Safely Poker Series Hand #5 Brought to you by Spirit Auto Center – Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman & Outlaw Stocks

PAUCH RACES TO KING OF THE BIG BLOCKS TITLE

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During his forty plus year career, Billy Pauch has earned many titles.  King of the Big Blocks can now be added!BP-JC-9-24-16 (242)ps

Billy Pauch raced to the win in the first King of the Big Blocks event at the Bridgeport Speedway in front of a huge crowd of racing fans, many of whom were seeing their first race on the 5/8th mile speedway.  The King of the Big Blocks is sponsored by K&A Excavating and United Rentals.

Pauch’s performance was flawless, starting out with a win in his qualifying event, drawing the pole for the fifty lap feature and then leading from the green to the checkered flag and the $12,000 pay check.  Pauch spends most of his Saturday nights racing Small Block Modifieds but the accomplished veteran proved that he’s got what it takes regardless of the division that he’s racing.  “I hope I can do this a few more times before I give it up,” Pauch said following the victory.

Pauch took over sole possession of third on Bridgeport’s All Time Feature win list as his win in the King of the Big Blocks moved Pauch’s total to fifty-nine – just one win ahead of Wade Hendrickson.  Pauch first won on the 5/8th mile Bridgeport Speedway iBP-JC-9-24-16 (253)psn March of 1987.

Pauch held off challenges from 2015 Bridgeport Champion, Jamie Mills to capture the prestigious win.  Mills finished second with his Blue Hen No. 30.  Dominick Buffalino, the winner of the 2016 season opener, finished third in the Pat Michael No. 51m while former multi-time trackchampion, Duane Howard finished fourth in a new Norm Hansell owned No. 357.  Young Brett Kressley finished fifth after running as high as third in his Kressley Truck Sales No. 19B.

Ryan Godown, Billy Pauch, Jr. and Neal Williams followed the top five across the finish line.  Sam Martz and 2016 Bridgeport Champion, Ryan Watt made tremendous comebacks to finish in the top ten after both were involved in early race incidents.  Watt was forced to pit on two separate occasions to replace broken shocks.

The Stewart Stainless Crate Sportsman and PennCo Tech Outlaw Stocks joined the Big Block Modifieds on the King of the Big Blocks racing card. BP-JC-9-24-16 (370)ps

The number to be was 99 in the Crate/Sportsman action as Craig Whitmoyer raced ahead of Brian Papiez to capture the feature win at the end of twenty laps.  Whitmoyer last won at Bridgeport in during the 2012 season while Papiez was a feature winner earlier this season..

Eric Kormann finished third with pressure from Brandon Grasso who finished fourth.  Ryan Lilick finished fifth, coming all the way from a twenty-third starting position to finish in the top five.

Tom Wills, Jr. pickedup his second win of the 2016 season in the Outlaws Stock feature.  After running fourteen consecutive green flag laps, there were two cautions before the final lap could be scored.

Wills raced ahead of Ken BP-JC-9-24-16 (207)psWatson, Jr. for the win after former track champion, Pat Conaway spun on the final circuit.  Spider Ensinger picked up another solid finish to take third over Mike Creamer and Brian Ludwig.

The Bridgeport Speedway will present the bonus hand of the 811 Dig Safely 2016 Poker Series this coming Saturday, October 1st.  The Spirit Auto Center Big Blocks, Stewart Stainless Crate/Sportsman and PennCo Tech Outlaw Stocks will compete in the tripleheader show to be followed by Powder Puff competition on the quarter mile.  Drivers have the opportunity to better their poker hands during this event.  Racing gets underway at 6pm.

 

 
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K&A EXCAVATING/UNITED RENTALS KING OF THE BIG BLOCKS (50 LAPS)

1 – Billy Pauch, 2 – Jamie Mills, 3 – Dominick Buffalino, 4 – Duane Howard, 5 – Brett Kressley, 6 – Ryan Godown, 7 – Billy Pauch Jr, 8 – Neal Williams, 9 – Sam Martz, 10 – Ryan Watt, 11 – Craig VonDohren, 12 – Tyler Dippel, 13 – Ryan Anderson, 14 – Tommy Beamer, 15 – Mike Iles, 16 – Richie Pratt Jr, 17 – Jimmy Horton, 18 – Travis Hill, 19 – CJ Jones, 20 – Wade Hendrickson, 21 – Billy VanInwegen, 22 – Bobby Drayton, 23 – Rick Laubach, 24 – Dave Shirk, 25 – Jeff Strunk, 26 – Rocco Infante, 27 – Danny Bouc

 

CRATE/SPORTSMAN

1 – Craig Whitmoyer, 2 – Brian Papiez, 3 – Eric Kormann, 4 – Brandon Grosso, 5 – Ryan Lilick, 6 – Dave Damiano, 7 – Brad Arnold, 8 – Clyde Cox, 9 – John Micek, 10 – Jordan Henn, 11 – Kyle Lilick, 12 – Dakota Kessler, 13 – John McGovern, 14 – Roger Manning, 15 – Chuck Potts, 16 – Scott Hulmes, 17 – Tom Sherby, 18 – Brian Hitz, 19 – Devin Dodson, 20 – JR Burritt, 21 – Matt Stangle, 22 – Steve Searock, 23 – Adam Cox, 24 – Steve Desmylek

OUTLAW STOCKS

1 – Tom Wills Jr, 2 – Ken Watson Jr, 3 – Spider Ensinger, 4 – Mike Creamer, 5 – Brian Ludwig, 6 – Tom Princiotta, 7 – Art Avery, 8 – John Parker, 9 – Fred Tomarchio, 10 – Rich Stinson, 11 – Pat Conaway, 12 – Joe Meron, 13 – Tom Wills Sr., 14 – Roy Combs

 

Upcoming event 

Saturday, October 1 – 8-1-1 Dig Safe Poker Series Bonus Hand Sponsored by Colonial Pipeline – Big Block Modifies, Crate/Sportsman, Outlaw Stocks & Powder Puff Races on the 1/4 mile, racing at 6pm

Saturday & Sunday, October 15 & 16 – Misfits 4×4 Fall Down & Dirty Weekend plus Demo Derby, 7pm Saturday

Saturday & Sunday, November 4 & 5 – URC/360 Sprints Big Track Classic plus Crate/Sportsman Showdown

Friday, November 11 – Wild Card Weekend – 358 Small Blocks, TSRS Sprint Cars, Outlaw Stocks plus practice for Saturday

Saturday, November 12 – Gone But Not Forgotten – 811 Dig Safely Poker Series Hand #5 – Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman & Outlaw Stocks

IT’S COZZE OVER PAUCH IN BARNBURNER ON THE EVE OF THE KING OF THE BIG BLOCKS!

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It brought back memories for seasoned racing fans!

It was a show not many will forget as two drivers who have forged stellar careers in stock car racing over the span of forty years battled wheel to wheel and side by side for more than half the race.

Frank Cozze picked up his first Bridgeport Speedway win in more than twenty years aBP-JC-9-23-16 (202)pss he held off the challenges of Billy Pauch to win the twenty-five lap 358 Small Block Modified feature event at the Bridgeport Speedway on the eve of the first running of The King of the Big Blocks!  It was Cozze’s seventh Bridgeport Speedway win while Pauch sits tied for third on the track’s All Time Feature Winner’s List with fifty-eight wins.

It was Cozze’s fourth win of the season for car owner, Tom Umbenhauer.  Cozze lined up along side of 2016 Bridgeport Champion, Ryan Watt for the start and quickly jumped out in front.  Pauch drove into second from his sixth place start on lap eleven and the battle was on.

Lap after lap, Pauch would race ahead of Cozze on the inside as the two battled sidBP-JC-9-23-16 (240)pse by side through the turns but it was Cozze who would roll the outside off the corner to regain the lead.  Pauch edged ahead as the leaders raced across the line to complete lap seventeen but Cozze was back in front as the pair exited turn two on the next circuit.

Cozze and Pauch led a stellar field of talent to the checkered flag at the end of twenty-five laps.  The amount of racing history represented in those first to spots is nothing less than staggering.  Billy Pauch, Jr. finished third in his own Kid Racing No. 15.  Dominick Buffalino finished fourth with Brett Kressley racing into fifth on the final laps.

Watt, Tyler Dippel, Craig VonDohren, Ryan Krachun and Rick Laubach rounded out the top ten finishers.

Steph Palmai-Carberry returned to Bridgeport’s Victory Lane when she picked up the win in the Hilborn Tri-State Race Savers Sprint Car (TSRS) feature event earlier in the evening after leading from the greeBP-JC-9-23-16 (172)psn flag to the checkered.  The winner was greeted in Victory Lane by her father and grandfather who have played integral roles in her racing career.

Tim Tanner raced into second on lap fourteen and began to cut in to the lead but was unable to get to Palmai-Carberry’s No. 99 before the checkered.  Tanner finished second with Robbie Stillwaggon racing into third in the race’s final laps.  Tommy Carberry, the winner’s husband finishing fourth with Mike Haggenbottom rounding out the top five.  It was the final night of points for TSRS as Haggenbottom earned his fifth consecutive title with his fifth place finish.

Several hot lap sessions were offered for the Big Block Modifieds who will take center stage tonight (Saturday) in the first King of the Big Blocks event.  Fifty laps of Big Block Modifieds with $12,000 going to the winner in an event sponsored by K&A Excavating Company and United Rental Inc.

By virtue of the quick laps in the final timed sessions, Craig VonDohren and Brett Kressley earned guaranteed starting spots in the King of the Big Blocks.

 

358 SMALL BLOCK MODIFIEDS (25 LAPS)

1 – Frank Cozze, 2 – Billy Pauch, 3 – Billy Pauch Jr, 4 – Dominick Buffalino, 5 – Brett Kressley, 6 – Ryan Watt, 7 – Tyler Dippel, 8 – Craig Von Dohren, 9 – Ryan Krachun, 10 – Rick Laubach, 11 – John McClelland, 12 – Duane Howard, 13 – Jim Britt, 14 – Tommy Scheetz, 15 – Ray Swinehart, 16 – PJ Oiver, 17 – Ryan Forte, 18 – Ron Roberts, 19 – Brian Papiez, 20 – Eric Kormann, 21 – Kevin Vaclavicek, 22 – John Pakenham, 23 – Mike Iles, 24 – Ryan Godown, 25 – Jimmy Horton, 26 – Richie Pratt

HILBORN TRI-STATE RACE SAVER SPRINT CARS (20 LAPS)

1 – Steph Palmai-Carberry, 2 – Tim Tanner Jr, 3 – Ryan Stillwaggon, 4 – Tommy Carberry, 5 – Mike Haggenbottom, 6 – Eddie Wagner, 7 – Joe Lord, 8 – Dave Brown, 9 – Joe Kay, 10 – Kyle Purks, 11 – Chris Allen, 12 – Samantha Lieberman, 13 – Bryant Davis, 14 – David Bonner, 15 – Harris Kohen, 16 – Tim Smolenyak, 17 – Douglas Snow, 18 – Scott Frack, 19 – Doug Suiter, 20 – Jeff Geiges, 21 – Rick Steif

 

 

Upcoming event 

Saturday, October 1 – Poker Series Bonus Hand – Big Block Modifies, Crate/Sportsman, Outlaw Stocks & Powder Puff Races on the 1/4 mile

Saturday & Sunday, October 15 & 16 – Misfits 4×4 Fall Down & Dirty Weekend plus Demo Derby, 7pm Saturday

Saturday & Sunday, November 4 & 5 – URC/360 Sprints Big Track Classic plus Crate/Sportsman Showdown

Friday, November 11 – Wild Card Weekend – 358 Small Blocks, TSRS Sprint Cars, Outlaw Stocks plus practice for Saturday

Saturday, November 12 – Gone But Not Forgotten – 811 Dig Safely Poker Series Hand #5 – Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman & Outlaw Stocks

IS THERE ANYTHING BETTER THAN A BIG BLOCK?

To answer that question – I think not!  When we think of the term ‘Modifieds’ in our world of circle dirt track racing, what are we really thowardhinking of?  Like myself, fans probably think of the headline division at your local speedway.  Well, that philosophy alone can lead you down several different roads.  Without getting too ‘technical’ which is far, far from my forte, I guess you can say that there are Big Blocks and Small Blocks.  But, then you have BIG Big Blocks (Delaware style no cubic inch limit), then the standard DIRT 467 with minimal allowance over that number.  358 Small Blocks – Are we talking the ‘Open’ or the ‘Spec’?  What’s the difference you ask?  Well, I can tell you that you’re asking the wrong person in this guy.  All I can try and tell you is that one’s supposed to be less inexpensive and make less horsepower and falls under scrutiny of a lot more rules than the other.  Oooh yea, then we have the wonderful ‘Big Small Block’.  You know the 410s and 430s of the racing world.  Did I miss any?  I know Woodhull
runs 370 small blocks which I guess is yet another version of a small block and I believe there’s a ‘Spec-Big Blockout there.  One more thing back to the spec engine, there are several versions of that one too (NY/PA/steel/aluminum/iron).  Okay, that’s enough of that technical talk for now.

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Here’s the tricky part to all of this – Most likely if you race at track where the headline modified division runs that cubic inch then that’s basically what your stuck with.  There is not much wiggle room to allow another type of engine size to run.  And by no means am I being negative to any one track at all – just stating the facts.  In the NJ/PA area three of the four tracks are ‘Spec Motor’ tracks.  This means only those that fall into that category can race on a weekly basis.  In NY where some of Bridgeport’s fellow Big Block tracks race, they fall into the DIRT fold where basically they on
ly want 467s nothing bigger, nothing smaller.  Some tracks don’t differentiate between small blocks and all have to run the same weight, some don’t allow our neighboring Delaware cars to run ‘big motors’.  Lotta tracks, lotta rules if you ask me.

Now let’s talk about Bridgeport for a minute.  We are a BIG BLOCK track, make no mistakes about it!  However, Bridgeport opens up its arms for anyone that may not have a big block.  Spec motors on Alcohol, Spec motors on gasoline, open 358s, 410 & 430s, the common 467, and of course those 500 plus motors.  How can that be?  How can one track allow so many different combinations?  Basically weight!  Weight is the great equalizer when it comes to horsepower and lack there of.  That’s why Bridgeport is unique – If a driver’s home track is off or rains out they’re more than welcome to come play in our clay any day of the week we have a spot for you on our roster.

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Growing up, my hchampionship nightome was Flemington.  Not only Modified Country USA but Big Block Modifieds.  I also spent Friday nights at East Windsor, well that was until they dumped the Big Blocks and went to Small Blocks.  Honestly, whatever year that was 1980/81…I didn’t return until maybe 1990.  Almost a decade of absence from one of the closest tracks around where I grew up at.  Gone was Stan Ploski, Ken Brenn, Sammy Beavers and more.  I missed all those years of Darryl Carman, Scott Pursell, Freddy D., Newt Hartman, and yes even Doug Hoffman.  Sadly to admit, I missed those dominating years when Doug won close to 40 races and several track championships at East Windsor which wasn’t too far away from my home.  Why?  Because I wanted Big Blocks!  Years later, of course I caved and when guys like Horton, Brightbill, Pauch, and Cozze came back so did I…I’m not that stupid.

People still love Big Blocks.  Look at the drivers that run Small Block tracks, quite a few still have Big Blocks in their arsenal so they can venture off for special shows where the Big Blocks are welcomed back from time to time.  Well, on Sept 24, this will certainly be one of those times where the small block drivers find there way to South Jersey for some Big Block action.  Talented drivers such as Jeff Strunk, Billy Pauch Sr & Jr., Craig Von Dohren, David Van Horn, Duane Howard, Dominick Buffalino, Brett Kressley, Ryan Krachun, Clay Butler and more.  Don’t forget, if you don’t have a Big Block we have room for you too.

There’s nothing like watching a Big Block, listening to a Big Block, and I’m sure driving a Big Block.  Watching Big Blocks at tracks like Lebanon Valley, Orange County, Delaware Int, and of course our beloved Syracuse nothing can beat that!  So what you need to do next is circle that calendar if it isn’t already and make sure you’re in the right place on Sept 24 for the First ever ‘King of the Big Blocks’ show paying $12,000 to win.  Even though Bridgeport is the ‘Home of the Big Blocks’, we do realize that many of our neighboring tracks race 358 small blocks weekly.  Therefore, on the eve of the ‘King of the Big Blocks’, we’ll have a nice little 358 small block showdown on Friday night.  So there you have it – A great weekend in store with a little bit of everything for both drivers and fans!

 Written By: Danny Serrano
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