Category: News

 

 

 

On Saturday night, Rick Laubach drove to his first Spirit Auto Center Big Block Modified feature win for car owners, Lori and Gary Hermann in the first point race of the season.  Matt Stangle earned his first victory in the Stewart Stainless Crate/Sportsman division while Tom Wills, Jr. earned his first win of the year in the PennCo Tech Outlaw Stock main event.  The DA’s Auto Body & Repair Rookie division produced a third first time winner when Tom Errico, Jr. took the win in the eight lap feature to open the night of racing.

2012 Bridgeport Champion, Laubach held off the challenges of a very persistent two time Bridgeport Champion in Ryan Watt to win the Big Block portion of Saturdaynight’s racing program.  Laubach drew the pole but had Watt to his outside for the start of the race.  Watt fought a tight race car at the start but battled back to second after losing several positions on the original start.  Several times, Watt got a nose under the leader but Laubach was able to pull away from his challenger as they raced down the backstretch.

“That’s the way these early (season) races go,” Laubach stated, making reference to the luck of the draw starting line-ups.  “I’ve been real lucky so far this season by drawing good starting positions.”  Laubach wanted to dedicate his win to Janet Ladner, a long time Bridgeport employee who passed away on Friday.  “I’ve been thinking about her all day today,” Laubach said of the woman who signed in the competitors each week at Bridgeport’s pit gate.  “This one is for her!”

Watt chased Laubach to the finish to take second with Neal Williams ending a very strong outing in Sal DeBruno’s Overhead Door No. 0 to finish third.  2015 Bridgeport Champion, Jamie Mills finished fourth with Brett Kressley taking a fifth place finish after starting in twelfth and then racing his way back from a mid-race incident. 

Brian Papiez led the first eleven laps of the Crate/Sportsman feature before being tracked down in lapped traffic by Stangle.  Stangle completed the pass for the lead on lap twelve and drove away from the field to capture his first win of the season – one week after setting a new one lap record for the Stewart Stainless Crate/Sportsman.  Papiez rebounded from a wreck one week earlier to finish second.  Dave Damiano finished third in his first outing of the new season.  Last week’s feature winner, Travis Hill finished fourth with Eric Kormann rounding out the top five
in his first race of the season.

Tom Wills, Jr. outgunned a hard charging Jeramy Doerr to take his first PennCo Tech Outlaw Stock feature of 2017.  Doerr, who was a late arrival, literally arrived at the track just in time for the feature.  He started at the pack of the pack but was there in the final laps to give Wills a run for the money.  Wills beat Doerr to the finish line with Brian Ludwig, who challenged Wills during the early laps of the race, finished third.  Jeff Dirkes and Ken Moren finished fourth and fifth, respectively.

Dave Izzi led the first five laps of the DA’s Auto Body & Repair Rookie Feature before Tom Errico, Jr. raced his way into contention from his sixth place starting spot.  Errico took over the lead on lap six and went on to take the win in his red, white and blue X-Rated.  Izzi held on to finish second with Kevin Britt, the winner of the season opener, finishing in third.  Brett Belmont raced from a ninth place start to finish fourth with Jim Gallagher, Jr. rounding out the top five.

Bridgeport will host the third running of the South Jersey Shootout on Sunday, April 23rd.  Racing gets underway at 5pm for the second race of the season for the South Region of the Bob Hilbert Sportswear Short Track Super Series fueled by Velocita.  The Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman and Outlaw Stocks will take to the track with the Big Blocks racing for $5,000 to win in their forty lap main event.

 

 

 

SPIRIT AUTO CENTER BIG BLOCK MODIFIED FEATURE (25 laps): 1. Rick Laubach, 2. Ryan Watt, 3. Neal Williams, 4. Jamie Mills, 5. Brett Kressley, 6. Dominick Buffalino, 7. Wade Hendrickson, 8. Jim Britt, 9. Jimmy Horton, 10. Jesse Hill, 11. Mike Barone, 12. Tommy Beamer, 13. Pete Visconti, 14. Rusty Smith, 15. Ron Roberts, 16. Bob Sarkisian, 17. Dave Shirk, 18. Ricky DiEva, 19. Richie Pratt, Jr., 20. Sam Martz, 21. Billy Pauch, Sr. 22. Jack Swain, 23. Mike Franz, 24. Dave Hunt, DNQ – Bobby Firth

STEWART STAINLESS SUPPLY CRATE/SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20 laps): 1. Matt Stangle, 2. Brian Papiez, 3. Dave Damiano, 4. Travis Hill, 5. Eric Kormann, 6. Roger Manning, 7. Adam Cox, 8. Clyde Cox, 9. Jeremy Harrington, 10. Chris Jenkins, 11. Steve Kemery, 12. David Crossman, 13. Nick Nicotra, 14. Bobby Bracall, 15. John Gilroy, 16. Dave Izzi, 17. Roger Gaskill, 18. Matt Peck, 19. Matt Luzi, 20. Scott Kohler, 21. Brad Roberts, 22. Bill Briggs, 23. John Scarpati, 24. Andrew Belmont, 25. Tommy Errico. DNQ – Jim Gallagher, Jr., Brett Belmont, Melissa Scarpati, Chris Sammons, Tom Holding, Scott Hulmes

D.A.’S AUTO BODY & REPAIR ROOKIE FEATURE (8 laps): 1. Tommy Errico, 2. Dave Izzi, 3. Kevin Britt, 4. Brett Belmont, 5. Jim Gallagher, Jr., 6. Scott Kohler, 7. Matt Luzi, 8. Kyle Belmont, 9. Jim Cheesman, 10. Jeff Stuart, 11. Chris Sammons, 12. Ray Cost, 13. Erik Mattson

PENNCO TECH OUTLAW STOCK FEATURE (15 laps): 1. Tom Wills, Jr., 2. Jeramy Doerr, 3. Brian Ludwig, 4. Jeff Dirkes, 5. Ken Moren, 6. John Parker, 7. David Kramer, 8. Andrew Joslin, DNS – Michael Creamer, Bill O’Brien

 

Upcoming events

Sunday, April 23 – South Jersey Shootout, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman & Outlaw Stocks – 5pm start

Sunday, April 30 – Bike Night presented by Joy Auto Parts, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman, MASS Sprint Cars, Rookies and Vintage, racing at 5pm

Saturday, May 6 – Kids Money Scramble, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman, Outlaw Stocks and Rookies, racing at 6:30pm

Saturday, May 13 – No Racing

TueSday, May 16 – Super DIRT Series-Friends of Mike Finale for Big Block Modifieds plus Crate/Sportsman, racing at 7:15

 

Four drivers broke into the win column for the first time in the young 2017 racing season with wins on Sunday in Bridgeport Speedway racing action.

Oley, PA driver, Duane Howard picked up the first win of the season for his Norm Hansell No. 357 team in the Spirit Auto Center Big Block Modified twenty-five lap feature event.  Nine time United Racing Club Champion (URC), Curt Michael was the winner in the BRB Contractor sponsored opener for the oldest traveling sprint car series in the United States.  Former Crate/Sportsman Champion, Travis Hill, climbed behind the wheel of Brett Cogdill’s No. 98 and raced to the win in the Stewart Stainless Crate/Sportsman feature event.  Jim Cheesman was the winner in the second DA’s Auto Body & Repair Rookie event of the 2017 season.

Howard drew the pole for the start of the Big Block Modified feature and then proceeded to lead from the green flag to the checkered for his first win of the 2017 season.  Howard held off Richie Pratt, Jr. on several restarts to capture his forty-sixth career win on Bridgeport’s 5/8 mile track.  Pratt was sidelined with mechanical issues in the closing laps, relinquishing his runner-up performance to 2015 Bridgeport Champion, Jamie Mills in his Blue Hen Racing No. 30.  Mike Barone finished third in his first start of the 2017 season, racing his family owned No 267.  Sam Martz rallied to capture fourth in his Izzi’s Trucking No. 3 ahead of Jeff Strunk in the Hyneman All Fab No. 126.  It was a red letter day for Bicknell Racing Chassis who captured the first four spots ahead of Strunk in a Teo chassis.

School was in session as Curt Michael drove his Bill Gallagher owned No. 5G into the lead in the closing laps, grabbing the lead and the win from reigning URC Champion, Davie Franek.  It was Michael’s tenth Bridgeport URC victory – a track rich in the URC history.  Franek trailed Michael to the checkered with Robbie Stillwaggon taking a third place finish over Derek Locke and Davey Sammons.

The Hill brothers, Jesse and Travis, haveeach had repeated victories in the Cogdill No. 98.  When Travis Hill’s racing schedule opened up for this weekend, the No. 98 was made available for Hill.   Hill took the lead on lap six after race leader, Roger Manning got out of shape, tangling with challenger, Brian Papiez.  Hill raced away from the field, taking the checkered ahead of Jeremy Harrington.  Harrington was later disqualified following a post race tech inspection.  2015 Rookie Champion, Stephen Kemery finished second followed by Brandon Grosso, Kevin Belmont and Davey Wenger.

After competing for the win in the first DA’sAuto Body & Repair rookie event of the season, Jim Cheesman made a strong statement, leading seven of the eight laps in the second Rookie feature of the year.  Jim Gallagher, Jr. crossed the finishline in second but was penalized two positions for his involvement in an on track incident.  Kevin Britt, with one Rookie feature win to his credit, finished second with second generation driver, Brett Belmont taking third.  Gallagher finished fourth with early race leader, Chris Sammons finishing fifth.

Racing action returns to the Bridgeport Speedway this Saturday for the start of the 2017 point season.  Racing gets underway at 6pm for the Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman, Outlaw Stocks and Rookies.

Photos by: JCAIV Imagery

SPIRIT AUTO CENTER BIG BLOCKMODIFIED FEATURE ( 25 laps): 1. Duane Howard, 2. Jamie Mills, 3. Mike Barone, 4. Sam Martz, 5. Jeff Strunk, 6. Dominick Buffalino, 7. Bill Pauch, Jr., 8. Ryan Godown, 9. Tommy Beamer, 10. Craig VonDohren, 11. Brett Kressley, 12. Rick Laubach, 13. Rusty Smith, 14. Dave Hunt, 15. Mike Franz, 16. Bob Sarkisian, 17. Ron Roberts, 18. Richie Pratt, Jr., 19. Jack Swain, 20. Neal Williams, 21. Ryan Watt, 22. Pete Visconti, 23. Hendrickson, 24. Jesse Hill, 25. Jordan Watson, 26. Ryan Krachun, DNQ – Ricky DiEva, Dave Shirk, P.J. Oliver, Ryan Anderson, Ernie Miles, Ryan Grim.

CAPITOL RENEGADE URC SPRINT CAR FEATURE (25 LAPS) – 1. Curt Michael, 2. Davie Franek, 3. Robbie Stillwaggon, 4. Derek Locke, 5. Davey Sammons, 6. Josh Weller, 7. Kevin Nagy, 8. Bill Unglert, 9. Steve Buckwalter, 10. Brett Michalski, 11. Ed Aiken, 12. Kris Lilick, 13. Travis Radivoy, 14. Mike Haggenbottom, 15. Paulie Colagiovanni, 16. Chris Coyle, 17. Matt Tanner, 18. Jonathan Swanson, 19. Andy Best, 20. Mark Bitner, 21. Chris Allen, 22. Bobby Scherff, 23. Troy Betts, 24. Justin Whittal, 25. Adam Carberry

STEWART STAINLESS CRATE/SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20 laps): 1. Travis Hill, 2. Steve Kemery, 3. Brandon Grosso, 4. Kevin Belmont, 5. Rich Wegner, 6. Matt Peck, 7. David Crossman, 8. Bobby Bracall, 9. Billy Briggs, 10. Harry Landis, 11. Jeremy Martino, 12. Chuck Sayers, 13. Scott Kohler, 14. Scott Hulmes, 15. Jim Gallager, Jr., 16. Joe Brown, 17. Roger Gaskill, 18. Jim Cheesman, 19. Matt Stangle, 20. Roger Manning, 21. Brian Papiez, 22. Andrew Belmont, 23. Nick Nicotra, 24. Tom Sherby, DQ – Jeremy Harrington, DNQ – Tyler Hulmes, Tommy Errico, Ray Cost, Chris Sammons, David Banko, Pete Serra, Jeff Bubori, Brett Belmont, Dave Izzi, Matt Luzi, Olivia Ingersoll

D.A.’S AUTO BODY & REPAIR ROOKIE FEATURE (8 laps): 1. Jim Cheesman, 2. Kevin Britt, 3. Brett Belmont, 4. Jim Gallagher, Jr., 5. Chris Sammons, 6. Jeff Stuart, 7. Trent Brewbaker, 8. Joe Brown, 9. Dave Izzi, 10. Matt Luzi, 11. Scott Kohler, 12. Ray Cost, 13. Tommy Errico, 14. Eric Mattson, 15. Olivia Ingersoll, 16. Keith McKinley

 

 

Upcoming events

Saturday, April 15 – 2017 Season Opener, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman, Outlaw Stocks and Rookies, 6pm start – 1st night of points

Sunday, April 23 – South Jersey Shootout, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman & Outlaw Stocks – 5pm start

Sunday, April 30 – Bike Night presented by Joy Auto Parts, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman, MASS Sprint Cars, Rookies and Vintage, racing at 5pm

Saturday, May 6 – Kids Money Scramble, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman, Outlaw Stocks and Rookies, racing at 6:30pm

Bridgeport, NJ – In less than 6 weeks, the 12th and final Friends of Mike event will be held on Tuesday, May 16 at Bridgeport Speedway.  The stars and cars of the Big Block Super DIRTcar series will be towing south to the Garden State for the first time in over a decade.  Event organizer Danny Serrano wants the final F.O.M. race to be one that will be remembered.  “We’ve had all kinds of formats and purses for this race, but this will be the first time that it will D.I.R.T. sanctioned.  One of the disconnects that Big Block modified racing suffers is the separation from the NJ/PA/DE drivers and the D.I.R.T. racers that mainly hail from NY.  I wanted all the best drivers at this race and I’m confident that will happen here at Bridgeport in early May,” explained Serrano.

Racers are required to purchase a DIRTcar membership license for race competition in the Super DIRTcar Series.  “We realize that most of our drivers don’t have a DIRT license which is needed to compete for Friends of Mike,” pointed out the General Manager.  “We want to encourage everyone to be part of F.O.M VII, so we decided to offer a loyalty reward heading into this race.  If any of our drivers compete in all of our four ‘point’ shows leading up to F.O.M., Bridgeport will then purchase their DIRTcar license for May 16,” added Serrano.  The four shows consist of two ‘traditional’ point shows (April 15 and May 6) and two ‘show up’ point events (April 23 and April 30).

All Big Block drivers who compete in these four races will earn their DIRTcar membership courtesy of Bridgeport Speedway.  “We know it’s hard enough to come to the track and compete, let alone adding another expense for the racers.  Hopefully, this well help out Bridgeport’s own for this big race.”  The Friends of Mike Finale will take place at 7:15pm on Tuesday, May 16.  Joining the Big Blocks will be the Stuart Stainless Crate/Sportsman, which will race under the track’s ‘Poker Series’ rules that evening.  For more information you can log onto www.bp.speedway.com, call the track office at 856-467-4408, or call Danny Serrano at 609-433-4487.

 

Action returns to the Bridgeport Speedway this weekend as the winged warriors of the United Racing Club return to the 5/8^th mile speedway in addition to the Spirit Auto Center Big Block Modifieds, Stewart Stainless Crate Sportsman and DA’s Auto Body & Repair Rookies.

URC welcomes title sponsor, Capitol Renegade for the 2017 season.   Capitol Renegade – “The Headquarters” for all you Race Transport Needs – is a good match for the traveling sprint car club who is celebrating their 70^th Anniversary season as America’s oldest traveling sprint car series.  This will be the third consecutive year that URC has opened their season at the Bridgeport Speedway.

2016 URC Champion, Davie Franek picked up his first of seven wins in the Bridgeport opener on his way to his second career URC Championship.

Josh Weller is looking forward to returning to Bridgeport where he picked up one his four wins last season during Bridgeport’s Three for All event during mid-season.  Weller returned to the cockpit of his family owned equipment in 2016 and had a momentous season.  Weller is hoping to carry that momentum into the new season.

With nine URC titles to his credit, Curt Michael is looking forward to the season opener.  Michael picked up a Brideport win last year during URC’s Big Track Classic weekend, winning the Friday night event while Lucas Wolfe earned his win on the next night.  Bridgeport is special to Michael who won the 2015 season opener  to celebrate his 50^th win in URC competition.

There will be one URC competitor who will be very familiar to Bridgeport Speedway fans as Kris Lilick has made the switch from Crate/Sportsman competition to sprint cars for the 2017 season.  Lilick tried his hand in a second Haggenbottom No. 24 during the Big Track Classic weekend and will race full time with URC this season.

Stewart Friesen was the feature winner of the only Big Block Modified race so far this season after capturing the win in the 60 Over Special/Doug Hoffman Memorial, taking the lead from Jeff Strunk in the final laps of the forty-four lap event.  Strunk will be in the field Sunday, looking for his first ever Bridgeport Big Block Modified feature win but he has his work cut out for him.

Two time Bridgeport Big Block Champion, Ryan Watt had his Roberts Racing No. 14w in mid-season form during the opener but his efforts were derailed twice by flat tires.  Watt had raced up to third before making his first visit to the pits.  After restarting at the rear of the field, Watt had just raced back into the top five when fate struck once again.

Other Bridgeport regulars will be on hand to defend their home turf against the invaders.  Sam Martz was one of the three drivers to lead laps in the season opener.  Rick Laubach was sidelined with mechanical ills with the Gary & Lori Hermann No. 7 during the opener, after picking up the win in the Small Block Modifed event the night before.  Dominick Buffalino made his presence known during the opening weekend and will certainly be looking for his first checkered flag of the season in addition to Neal Williams, Richie Pratt, Jr., Wade Hendrickson,  Tommy Beamer, David Hunt, Jamie Mills, Ron Roberts, Jesse Hill and a host of others.

Brian Papiez picked up the Crate/Sportsman win during the 60 Over weekend  and will be looking forward to continuing his winning ways.  Chris Jenkins had his best ever finish during the 60 Over Weekend.  After leading the  first half of last week’s race, Jenkins will be looking for that first checkered flag in the races to come.  Roger Manning and Kevin Belmont debuted new equipment during the first weekend of the season and will be competing for their share of the purse as will Stephen Kemery, Brad Roberts, Matt Stangle, Billy Briggs, Scott Hulmes and others.

DA’s Auto Body & Repair Rookies division is one of the biggest to date.  There were three lead changes during their first eight lap feature event, promising a very exciting Rookie season in 2017.  Kevin Britt, brother of Modified driver, Jim Britt, picked up the win after Eric Mattson and Tom Errico Jr. both led several laps.

The green flag will wave on the Bridgeport Speedway at 4pm on Sunday with four divisions of racing coming your way.  Come early and enjoy the musical entertainment as well as the delectable offerings of the Bridgeport Speedway concession stands.  Or take a ride on the Bandit Bus and view the behind the scenes action in the pit area while the competitors prepare for the racing program.  Keep up to date with the latest news with the Bridgeport Bullet, the official program of the Bridgeport Speedway.

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

Upcoming events

Sunday, April 9 – United Racing Club season opener, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman and Rookies, start time 5pm

Saturday, April 15 – 2017 Season Opener, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman, Outlaw Stocks and Rookies, 6pm start – 1st night of points

Sunday, April 23 – South Jersey Shootout, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman & Outlaw Stocks – 5pm start

 

The Bridgeport Speedway is pleased to announce the continuing support of several sponsors for the 2017 season.

Bridgeport’s Director of Marketing, Kolby Ramey stated, “Sponsors are vital to the success of Bridgeport Speedway both as a business and as a speedway.  They make up thirty per cent of our annual income.”

Colonial Pipeline’s 811 Call Before You Dig program returns as the title sponsor of the 2017 Poker Series for the Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman and Outlaw Stocks.  Colonial’s relationship with the Bridgeport Speedway goes back to the 2012 season when Doug Hoffman promoted the race events.

“Our relationship with the Bridgeport Speedway has been great over the years” said Rob Andersen of Colonial Pipeline.  “It’s been very productive in getting out to the general public our “Dial 8-1-1 before you dig” message. “  Andersen is looking forward to a great 2017 season as Colonial Pipeline has added a the much anticipated night of the Monster Trucks to their schedule this season. Rob believes this will only serve to expand the audience that receives the important 811 Call before You Dig Message!

Colonial wishes  you to call 811 before you dig!  Any project – large or small – you are not only encouraged but, it’s also the law.  A call should be placed three working days prior to any digging project.  The call center will then notify any utility companies that may be affected and a professional locator will visit the dig site to mark the location of any underground utility lines prior to your work.

Spirit Auto Center has been a sponsor of the Bridgeport Speedway Big Block Modifieds  since the 2014 season and became the title sponsor of the Bridgeport quarter mile speedway last season.  The track how has its own identity as the Spirit Auto Center Speedway.

Spirit Chrysler Dodge Jeep and Ram has been serving South Jersey and the Philadelphia metro area since 1991 and is in its second generation of a family owned business.  Spirit offers a family atmosphere and friendly staff to create a fun and relaxed car buying experience for all of their customers.  The Bridgeport Speedway is an extension of that family atmosphere with several models of Spirit’s cars on display at the race track on any given night.

“The Bridgeport Speedway has been phenomenal relationship for us, really and truly,” stated Mike Baus of Spirit Auto Center.  “It has really helped us to bring new light to the surrounding communities.”

Stewart Stainless Supply will continue to support the Crate/Sportsman division at the Bridgeport Speedway this season.

Stewart Stainless provides quality stainless steel to a wide variety of industries across the country.  Stewart Stainless is continually looking for creative ways to provide information about their product and services.

Pennco Tech returns as the title sponsor of the Outlaw Stock Division.

Pennco Tech is a technical school located in both Blackwood, NJ and Bristol, PA where they offer career training in automotive technology, medical assistance, air conditioning and heating as well as pharmacy technician training.  The Pennco Tech advisors work with individuals to create a plan to achieve their goals and then provide both the training as well as assistance in locating employment opportunities at the completion of the training program.

Sponsorship opportunities are a two way street at the Bridgeport Speedway.  “We want to build a relationship with the companies that are sponsors at the Bridgeport Speedway,” Ramey continues.  We want to do all we can do to sell their products and we want to do a darn good job of it too.  No one wants to pay for advertising that doesn’t have a return on investment. We feel that’s why these sponsors have returned with their support for the 2017 season.”

Racing action returns to the Bridgeport Speedway this weekend with the 2017 season opener of the Spirit Auto Center quarter mile on Friday night where 600 wingless and 270 winged micro sprints will be featured along Slingshots and the 4 Cylinder Enduro cars.  Racing gets underway at 8pm.  On Sunday, racing action moves to the lightning fast 5/8 mile track where the winged warriors of the United Racing Club (URC) will join the Spirit Auto Center Big Block Modifieds, Stewart Stainless Crate/Sportsman and DA’s Auto Body & Repair Rookies.  It will URC’s first race of the 2017. Racing gets underway on Sunday at 5pm.

 

Upcoming events

Saturday, April 15 – 2017 Season Opener, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman, Outlaw Stocks and Rookies, 6pm start – 1st night of points

Sunday, April 23 – South Jersey Shootout, Short Track Super Series, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman & Outlaw Stocks – 5pm start

 

 

Bridgeport, NJ – After already losing March 18’s open practice, ‘Mother Nature’ decided to rear her ugly head again for the second scheduled practice at the Bridgeport/Spirit Speedway’s South Jersey complex.  Heavy rains from this past Tuesday, along with today’s all-day rain have both tracks and pit areas saturated for this weekend’s practice.  “It’s unfortunate that we’ve had to cancel both our practices this year, as we know guys like the extra seat time dialing in their race cars before the season starts,” offered general manager Danny Serrano.  “Technically we dodged a big bullet last weekend with our Doug Hoffman Memorial event, as we even had to fight off the weather that day too.  We’ve even had to cancel the Kenny Wallace Driving Experience that was going to take place on this Sunday.  Hopefully the weather will be cooperate much more next week and we’ll have another great racing weekend for the drivers and fans,” Serrano added.

 

Anyone that was signed up for the KWDRE on Sunday should contact them at 855-722-3347 or visit http://dirtracewithkenny.com/ about rescheduling.  The Kenny Wallace Dirt Racing Experience will be back at Bridgeport on Sunday, June 11.

 

Next weekend will see both the Spirit Auto Center Speedway and Bridgeport Speedway in action.  The 1/4 mile Spirit Speedway will have its opening night on Friday, April 7 featuring the wingless 600 micros, winged 270 micros, I2M Solutions Four-Cylinders, and the Speedway All-Star Bagel Stop Slingshots.  The first green flag will wave at 8pm.  Gates will open an hour early at 4:30pm for safety inspection.

 

Then on Sunday, the 5/8 mile Bridgeport Speedway will roar back to live with the invasion of the URC Sprint Cars.  The winged warriors will make their first of four appearances on the 5/8 next Sunday, April 9.  Joining the 360 Sprints will be the Spirit Auto Center Big Blocks, Stewart Stainless Crate/Sportsman, and the D.A.’s Auto Body Rookies.  Pit gates will open at 1pm, hot laps at 4pm, and racing at 5pm.

 

For all the latest information about the Bridgeport and Spirit Auto Center Speedway you can locate them on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, or log onto their websites at www.bpspeedway.com and www.spiritspeedway.com.

BRIDGEPORT, NJ – The second round of the 2017 Bob Hilbert Sportswear Short Track Super Series (STSS) Fueled By VP Velocita South Region takes place in the Garden State.

Bridgeport Speedway, the spacious five-eighths-mile facility, plays host to the ‘South Jersey Shootout’ on Sunday, April 23. STSS big-block/small-block Modifieds headline the program in the richest event of the spring at Bridgeport, paying $5,000 to the winner, $1,000 for 10^th and $400 just to take the green flag. The total payout is a massive $25,170.

The ‘South Jersey Shootout’ is set for its third April running at Bridgeport as a co-promotion involving speedway management and BD Motorsports Media LLC.

The inaugural event, in 2015, saw Rick Laubach of Hellertown, Pa., take the triumph over David Van Horn Jr., Craig Von Dohren, Ryan Watt and Jack Swain. A year ago, in April 2016, the ‘Flying Farmer’ Wade Hendrickson of Lawrenceville, N.J., bested Billy Pauch Sr., Stewart Friesen, David Hunt and Ryan Godown en route to the checkered.

The Bridgeport showdown serves as Race No. 2 of the STSS Velocita South Region. The series opened March 11 at Del.’s Georgetown Speedway with Neshanic Station, N.J., veteran Jimmy Horton securing his first-ever STSS triumph over Watt, Pauch Sr., Duane Howard and Van Horn.

This season, the STSS South Region champion will receive $10,000 for their efforts, the most lucrative title in the series’ three-year history. Horton plans to chase the title with the Halmar International team and has the early jump on the eight-race series.

An added bonus for drivers is the event’s status as an American Racer Cup Challenge event, offering bonus points toward the Cup’s Insinger Performance regional battle (South).

The ‘South Jersey Shootout’ is topped by a 40-lap STSS Modified main. Joining the series on the card are Sportsman (under Bridgeport weekly rules) and Outlaw Stocks.

Pit gates will open at 1 p.m. Grandstand gates unlock at 2 p.m. The drivers’ meeting takes place at 3:30 p.m., with 4 p.m. hot laps and 5 p.m. racing.

Adult grandstand admission is $25. Students (ages 10-15) pay $10 and Kids 9 and under are FREE. Pit admission is $35, with no license required.

In the event of rain, the program will be run April 30.

Complete race info can be found at the following link: http://bdmotorsportsmedia.com/south-jersey-shootout-rules-prices-general-info/

The STSS Modified purse structure is as follows: http://bdmotorsportsmedia.com/south-jersey-shootout-stss-modified-pay-structure/

Located in South Jersey, just minutes from Pennsylvania and Delaware at I-295 Exit 14, Bridgeport Speedway is a spacious five-eighths-mile clay oval with a quarter-mile embedded in the center. Bridgeport Speedway provides a safe and secure family atmosphere, free parking, giveaways and fan participation. To learn more, visit www.bpspeedway.com.

To learn more about the Short Track Super Series Fueled By VP or BD Motorsports Media LLC, visitwww.shorttracksuperseries.com or www.bdmotorsportsmedia.com, call 845.728.2781 during business hours, e-mail[email protected], “like” Short Track Super Series on Facebook or follow @ShortTrackSS on Twitter.

The 2017 Short Track Super Series is presented by American Racer/Lias Tire, VP Racing Fuel, Bob Hilbert Sportswear, Halmar International, Allstar Performance, ATL Racing Fuel Cells, Behrent’s Performance Warehouse, Bicknell Racing Products, Dirt Track Digest, Fast Axle, Fox Racing Shocks, Hig Fab, Henry’s Exhaust, HyperCo, Keizer Wheels, Kirkey Racing Fabrication, K&N, QA1, Race Pro Weekly, Racing Optics, Teo-Pro Car, Velocita & Wilwood.

 

Bob Hilbert Sportswear Short Track Super Series Fueled By VP Velocita South Region Schedule

Saturday, March 11 – Georgetown Speedway/Georgetown Del. – Melvin L. Joseph Memorial – WINNER: JIMMY HORTON

Sunday, April 23 – Bridgeport Speedway/Bridgeport, N.J. (Five-Eighths-Mile) – South Jersey Shootout (Rain Date: April 30) –AMERICAN RACER CUP CHALLENGE EVENT

Thursday, May 25 – Delaware International Speedway/Delmar, Del. – Diamond State 50 (Rain Date: TBA) – AMERICAN RACER CUP CHALLENGE EVENT

Tuesday, June 6 – Big Diamond Speedway/Minersville, Pa. – ‘Anthracite Assault’ – COMBO (Rain Date: TBA)

Sunday, July 30 – Susquehanna Speedway/Newberrytown, Pa. – York County Nationals $10,000 to win (Rain Date: TBA)

Tuesday, August 29 – Georgetown Speedway/Georgetown, Del. – Blast at the Beach 4 (Rain Date: August 30)

Saturday, September 30 – Bridgeport Speedway/Bridgeport, N.J. (Three-Eighths-Mile) – Dirty Jersey (Rain Date: October 1)

Friday-Saturday, October 27-28 – Georgetown Speedway/Georgetown, Del. – Mid-Atlantic Championship (Rain Date: Oct. 29) – CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS

 

 

 

The Bridgeport Speedway presented thefifth annual 60 Over Special/Doug Hoffman Memorial and the first hand of the 811 Dig Safely 2017 Poker Series that saw Stewart Friesen, Brian Papiez and Jon Meyer pick up an Ace for their Poker hands in addition to their wins in their respected divisions.

Rain fell after the hea t races and Penn Co Tech Outlaw Stock feature had been run.  After several showers passed through the area, the trackcrew – led by Keith Hoffman – went to work and restored the racing surface so that the event could be completed.

“I’ve always wanted to win one of these races (Hoffman Memorials)”, Friesen stated following his win in the Spirit Auto Center Big Block fofty-four lap main event.  “Doug was a friend of my family’s – my uncle and grandfather so this means a lot,” Friesen continued.  Friesen led only the final two laps but it was the all that was needed to capture the prestigious win.

Fourteen drivers participated in the revenge redraw to determine the race’s starting line-up – the top four qualifiers in each of the three qualifying heats and Friesen and Jamie Mills who set fast times in their timed hot lap sessions during Friday night’s event.  It was Ryan Watt who drew the pole but he then passed his draw on to Sam Martz.  Friesen drew the third spot but passed that spot onto Jeff Strunk.  Watt started tenth and Friesen started fourteenth.

Martz took command at the wave of Kenny Golden Jr.’s green flag with Strunk and outside polesitter, BillyPauch Sr. trailing.  Jamie Mills, Duane Howard and Ryan Watt made their way past by Pauch on lap three.  Pauch slowed and headed to the pits on the next lap.

Strunk was closing on the leader before the first caution waved for Mills who came to a stop in turn four with mechanical woes.  Strunk pulled ahead of Martz on the restart to become the new race leader on lap fourteen.   At half way, Strunk led Friesen, Howard, Martz and Billy Pauch, Jr.

Strunk was able to pull away from the field and appeared to be on his way to his first ever Big Block Modified win at the Bridgeport Speedway.  With less than ten laps to go, Strunk visibly slowed, allowing Friesen to close in.  Strunk’s All Fab sponsored, Hyneman owned No. 126 had a different sound to it as Friesen pressured Strunk for the lead.  Friesen was able to run the inside into the corners and pull along side of Strunk who was then able to power off the outside to maintain his advantage.

Strunk and Friesen raced side by side to complete lap forty-two with Strunk pulling ahead off turn two before the final caution flag waved.  Strunk went to the restart as the leader but Friesen had the advantage when the pair exited off of turn two.  Friesen led the way to the checkered as Strunk was able to hold off Howard to finish second.  Pauch Jr. finished fourth with Neal Williams rounding out the top five.

Brian Papiez started eighth in the Stewart Stainless Crate/Sportsman feature event and raced by race leader, Chris Jenkins to take the half way sign at the front of the field.  Papiez then drove away from the competition to capture his second Bridgeport feature win of his young career.  “I plan to run the Poker Series so it was great to come away with an Ace right away,” the race winner stated.  Jordan Henn passed Jenkins for second in the closing laps.  Jenkins picked up his best ever finish in third with Jeremy Harrington and Frank Dorry completing the top five at the line.

Jon Meyer closed out the 2016 season with a third and then second place finish in PennCo Tech Outlaw Stock competition for his best finishes to date.  He opened the new season with a win after Jeramy Doerr, who took the checkered flag, failed to pass post race tech.  The win gave Meyer an Ace to start out the 811 Dig Safely Poker Series.  Tom Wills, Jr. finished second followed by Brian Ludwig, Vern McLaughlin and Jeff Dirkes.

It was a full day of fast paced racing that paid tribute to past champion and promoter, Doug Hoffman.

The Bridgeport Speedway will run a practice session on Saturday on both the Spirit Auto Center quarter mile and 5/8th mile tracks.  Practice is open to all divisions and will get underway at noon.

60 Over/Doug Hoffman Memorial Results

Hand #1 of the 811 Dig Safely Poker Series

SPIRIT AUTO CENTER BIG BLOCK MODIFIED FEATURE (44 laps): 1. Stewart Friesen, 2. Jeff Strunk, 3. Duane Howard, 4. Billy Pauch, Jr., 5. Neal Williams, 6. David Hunt, 7. Jordan Watson, 8. Jimmy Horton, 9. David Van Horn, 10. Frank Cozze, 11. Ryan Watt, 12. Travis Hill, 13. Danny Johnson, 14. PJ Oliver, 15. Sammy Martz, 16. Dominick Buffalino, 17. Wade Hendrickson, 18. Ryan Godown, 19. Jamie Mills, 20. Tommy Beamer, 21. Bob Sarkisian, 22. Richie Pratt, Jr., 23. Billy Pauch, Sr., 24. Jesse Hill, DNQ – Ryan Anderson, 2. Ron Roberts, 3. Jim Britt, 4. Mike Franz, Shawn Ward, Rick Laubach, Brett Kressley

STEWART STAINLESS CRATE/SPORTSMAN FEATURE (20 laps): 1. Brian Papiez, 2. Jordan Henn, 3. Chris Jenkins, 4. Jeremy Harrington, 5. Frank Dorry, 6. Craig Whitmoyer, 7. Roger Manning, 8. Matt Stangle, 9. Jesse Landis, 10. John Aumick, 11. Cale Ross, 12. Steve Kemery, 13. Jeremy Martino, 14. Adam Cox, 15. Clyde Cox, 16. Joe Nappi, 17. Bill Briggs, 18. Matthew Peck, 19. Bobby Bracall, 20. John Gilroy, 21. Jim Gallagher, Sr., 22. Brad Roberts, 23. Scott Hulmes, 24. Kevin Belmont, DNQ – Roger Gaskill, Andrew Belmont, Jim Cheeeman, Brett Belmont, Scott Kohler, Pete Serra, Pat Wall

PENNCO TECH OUTLAW STOCK FEATURE (15 laps): 1. John Meyer, 2. Tom Wills, Jr. 3. Brian Ludwig, 4. Vern McLaughlin, 5. Jeff Dirkes, 6. Billy Wroble, 7. Gary Klimesczek, 8. Andrew Joslin, DQ – Jeramy Doerr DNS – Ron Frees, John Parker

 

 

Upcoming events

Saturday, April 1 – Open practice on both 5/8 and quarter mile track, 2nd DA’s Auto Body & Repair Rookie event, starts at noon

Sunday, April 9 – United Racing Club season opener, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman and Rookies, start time 4pm

Saturday, April 15 – 2017 Season Opener, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman, Outlaw Stocks and Rookies, 6pm start – 1st night of points

Sunday, April 23 – South Jersey Shootout, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman & Outlaw Stocks – 5pm start

 

 

The Bridgeport Speedway opens their season with the 60 Over Special/Doug Hoffman Memorial  – a two day event for the first time this year.  New clay and a well prepared racing surface made for the exciting side by side racing that Bridgeport is known for and the first event of the season was no exception!

Hellertown, PA driver, Rick Laubach came away with his first win of the season after a heated battle with Ryan Watt and Frank Cozze who each had a win in 2016 Bridgeport Speedway Small Block Modified competition.

Laubach, the 2012 Bridgeport Track Champion, was behind the wheel of the Ryan Kerr owned No. 1K with sponsorship form Touch of Green, Pine Creek Holdings and Earl’s Factory Air.

Polesitter, Ryan Watt led the field to the green flag and received his first challenge from Dominick Buffalino in turn two but the reigning Big Block Modified Champion pulled away from the field.  With five laps scored, Watt led Buffalino, Frank Cozze, Wade Hendrickson and Brett Kressley around the 5/8th mile speedway.  Kressley moved up to fourth one lap later as the top three remained unchanged through lap ten.

Watt closed in on lapped traffic by the midway point.  On lap sixteen, while Watt was working a lapped car, Buffalino applied the pressure and slid into the lead as the field headed into turn three.  Unfortunately for Buffalino, another lapped car was just around the corner.  When the other car slid off the inside, the two cars made contact with Buffalino getting air time before somehow saving the car from the concrete wall.  Watt went back out front with Cozze taking over second.  Jim Britt slowed bringing out the yellow with just seven laps remaining.

Watt led Cozze, Buffalino, Laubach and Hendrickson to the green flag with Cozze using the outside line to jump out in front with the Renaldo No. 401 after the first restart was called back.  Cozze took the five to go sign with Watt in tow.  Laubach moved into third and began to pressure Watt for second.  Laubach won the spot and set his sights on Cozze.  On lap twenty-three, Laubach went to the inside and took the lead off of turn two.  He led the final three circuits to lead the way to the checkered over Cozze, Watt, Billy Pauch Jr. and Stewart Friesen who raced his way from his twenty-first starting spot to gain a top five finish.

The DA’s Auto Body & Repair Rookies made their first start of the 2017 season and made quite a first impression with three lead changes during their eight lap feature.  Chris Sammons led the way to the green but it was Eric Mattson who was out in front by the time lap one was scored.  Mattson led the way through lap four when Tommy Errico complete the pass for the lead.  Errico pulled away from the field before having trouble negotiating turn two.  Kevin Britt seized the opportunity with Bobby Bracall’s No. 28 and took the lead.  Britt led the final two laps to the checkered with Jim Gallagher, Jr. taking second over Ericco.  Mattson finished fourth with Jim Cheeseman claiming fifth at the flag.

Timed hot lap sessions earned several drivers guaranteed spots in the draws for Saturday nights main events.  Tom Wills, Jr. was the fastest in the PennCo Tech Outlaw Stocks, Steve Kemery in the Crates and Kevin Belmont in the Sportsman.  Stewart Friesen not only set fast time in the first session for the Big Block Modifieds but set a new one lap track record, previously held by Duane Howard from the 2008 season.  Jamie Mills earned a spot in the draw with his time from the second hot lap session.

FRIDAY NIGHT RESULTS

SMALL BLOCK MODIFIED FEATURE (25 laps): 1. Rick Laubach, 2. Frank Cozze, 3. Ryan Watt, 4. Billy Pauch, Jr., 5. Stewart Friesen, 6. Duane Howard, 7. Jeff Strunk, 8. Ryan Godown, 9. Danny Bouc, 10. Jesse Hill, 11. Bob Sarkisian, 12. Roger Manning, 13. John Pakenham, 14. Dominick Buffalino, 15. Wade Hendrickson, 16. Kyle Borror, 17. Jim Britt, 18. Brett Kressley, 19. Ron Roberts, 20. Justin Grim, 21. Matt Stangle, 22. Kevin Sockriter, 23. Clyde Cox, 24. Ryan Grim

DA’S AUTO BODY & REPAIR ROOKIE FEATURE (8 laps): 1. Kevin Britt, 2. Jim Gallagher, Jr., 3. Tommy Errico, 4. Eric Mattson, 5. Jim Cheesean, 6. Brett Belmont, 7. Olivia Ingersoll, 8. Jeff Stuart, 9. Chris Sammons, 10. Matt Luzi, DNS – Keith McKinley

 

 

Upcoming events

Saturday, April 1 – Open practice on both 5/8 and quarter mile track, 2nd DA’s Auto Body & Repair Rookie event, starts at noon

Sunday, April 9 – United Racing Club season opener, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman and Rookies, start time 4pm

Saturday, April 15 – 2017 Season Opener, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman, Outlaw Stocks and Rookies, 6pm start – 1st night of points

Sunday, April 23 – South Jersey Shootout, Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman & Outlaw Stocks – 5pm start

12 Rookies Officially Register for 2017 D.A.’s Auto Body Series – Plus Important Friday Information

 

For the 5th consecutive year D.A.’s Auto Body & Repair will be sponsoring the Crate/Sportsman division at the Bridgeport Speedway. “The rookie division is important not only to the racers but, it’s important to the track as well,” explained Dave Adams owner of D.A.’s. “The more new blood we get to come into the sport, the better it will be in the long run,” Adams added. The top 3 point finishers will be honored at the year-end banquet for the Bridgeport Speedway drivers. Along with point fund money, the champion will receive a championship trophy and plaque and champion jackets courtesy of American Racer and Insinger Performance/Sunoco Fuels. The 11-race series will kick off on Friday night, March 24 as part of the 60over Special ‘Doug Hoffman Memorial’ Weekend. A champion will be crowned as the class graduates on Saturday, June 24 before moving up ‘officially’ into the Crate/Sportsman division

Friday Information:
Pit Gates Open 3pm
Inspection starts when pits open
Mandatory Rookie Meeting 5:45pm
Regular Driver’s meeting 6:05pm
Drivers called to the track 6:20
Hot Laps 6:30
2nd Rookie Driver’s Meeting 7pm
Rookies will then receive 2 more rounds of Hot Laps before their Feature later in the evening.

The 10th D.A.’s Auto Body Rookie to sign up for the 2017 season is Chris Sammons. The Mantua, NJ driver will be driving the Bob Scott-owned No. 71e Sportsman ride. Although a rookie, Sammons does have some racing experience in the 4 cylinder division at Spirit Speedway. Chris was the ’15 4-Cylinder champion while visiting victory lane on several occasions. Obviously, Sammons has never driven a modified/sportsman type car and will look to transfer his success on the 1/4 mile now to the 5/8 mile. The 26 year-old will have his first crack behind the wheel of a Crate/Sportsman this coming Friday evening with help from Bob Scott and his father Terry.

Erik Mattson of Mickleton, NJ is yet another driver that will be joining the other rookies in this year’s quest for a championship. Mattson will be driving the Scott Hulmes-owned No. 34H machine for the ’17 rookie series The 49 year-old will be behind the wheel of an ’09 Troyer powered by a 602 crate engine. Some of the people that will be helping with Erik’s rookie journey are Bryan, Mary Ann, Jeff, Wendy, Joan, Scott, Jake, Thomas, Courtney, Brenda, and Pete. Some of the sponsors that will adorn the 34H are Bentley Truck Service, Runnemede Refrigeration, Tri State Cleaning, Just 4 Wheels Car Rental, Mike Bradley Certified Laboratories, All State County Glass, Cut Above Tree Service, and TMT Towing & Auto Body. Rest assured if Erik visits the winner’s circle he’ll have plenty of friends to celebrate with.

The final rookie to declare his eligibility heading into Friday’s first point race is 34 year-old Kevin Britt. The Clarksboro, NJ resident is no stranger to the race track, especially Bridgeport. Kevin is the younger brother of Big Block competitor Jim Britt. Serving has Jim’s crew chief for the past several years, Kevin knows all the ‘in’s and out’s’ on turning wrenches. However, now is the time he has to prove himself on the racetrack. Britt will be driving the Bobby Bracall-owned 602 Crate No. 28 for the 2017 series. Bracall will be returning back to Bridgeport to compete weekly in the Stuart Stainless Crate/Sportsman division. Kevin will have Harry and Staci helping in the pits along Bobby and Jim. Some of the sponsors that will be represented on the 2012 Teo car are Garoppo Stone & Garden, ERK Steering Repair, GE Mechanics, Kevin Inc., CIL Underground, SNT Holsteins, Maxima Racing Oils, Jones Racing Products, and CTS Lawn Care.
Jim Gallagher Jr. is the newest driver to sign up for this year’s rookie division at Bridgeport Speedway. The 28 year-old is a second-generation driver to his father Jim Gallagher Sr. The Elder Gallagher raced at Bridgeport in the Sportsman division from ’94-’00 eventually leaving the sport for a good 15 years. “We came to Bridgeport spectating last year and when they brought the cars behind the grandstands and I felt the ground shake, heard those engines, and smelled that fuel, I was hooked once again,” admitted Gallagher Sr. “I knew I had to get back into this with my son, so that’s what we did.” Jimmy who resides in nearby Woolwich, will be driving a 2015 Bicknell 602 crate powered car that will carry No. 31 (Sr.’s old number). Elite Welding Training, Keen Compass Gas, and Lucky Mechanical in Blackwood, NJ are the Gallagher’s main sponsors. We say Gallagher because, yes, Jim Sr. will be strapping himself back behind the wheel as well. After Jimmy runs the rookie race Jim Sr., will race with the Crate/Sportsman on a weekly basis. The 72 year-old is happy to be living out his dream. “I have to say special thanks to my wife Janet for letting me do this once again. Believe it or not I used to make a living racing AMA flat track motorcycles and raced at Bridgeport back in ’74 on my XR750 Harley Davidson,” Gallagher added. Some of the guys who will be crewing for the tag-team are Jeff Platt (tires) and Paulie Olivo who will serve as the Crew Chief and Zach Bailey as well. A special thanks goes out to Sammy Wescott and Mark Blackwell from the Gallaghers as well.
A 7th rookie notified Bridgeport Speedway this week that he plans on running with the ’17 field on the 5/8 mile oval. Scott Kohler will be driving his No. 12s sportsman car during most of the scheduled rookie races. “I really want to be part of this series at Bridgeport, but unfortunately I can’t make all of the races but I plan on being there for most of them,” Kohler explained. The 50 year-old Boyertown, PA driver will be behind the wheel of an ’06 Teo car.
Two of the sponsors that make it all happen for Scott are BK Upholstery and TNT Mowing & More. “Right now it’s just my son Chad, my girlfriend Justine, and daughter Danielle that will be helping me in the pits. I always wanted to do this and finally realized that I had the means to do it, so I said why not!” Kohler raced go karts from 1995 to 2000 before getting hooked onto off road four-wheel drive racing. For the past 15 years Scott could have been found racing on off road obstacle courses all over the PA, DE, MD region.

The 9th D.A.’s Auto Body driver that has added his name to the ever-growing list is young Matt Luzi. If you think the name ‘Luzi’ sounds familiar, well, you would be correct. The Luzi name is connected to Joy Auto Parts, which has been seen on racecars over the past 35 plus years. 17 year-old Matt is a fourth-generation driver hailing out of Branchburg, NJ. Last year, Matt was able to hot lap his car in a couple of races at the end of the season, therefore keeping his rookie status eligible. The car has since been received a new body and lettering for the 2017 season. The 2011 Bickenell No. 7L will be powered by a 602 crate motor this season. Matt’s father, grandfather, and great-grandfather all raced in the state of NJ over the course of the last 60 plus years. Matt’s father Garrett raced SS Sprints most recently about 10 years ago. Joe Luzi, Matt’s grandfather drove the popular ‘Toy’ car at Flemington back in the 1980’s, while Joe’s father John raced up in north Jersey in now defunct stadiums and arenas. Matt’s racing experience thus far have consisted of all go karts at tracks like Oakland Valley, Wall, and Shellhammers. ‘Joy Auto Parts’ (located in Greenbrook and Chester, NJ) is the main sponsor of the family-owed Crate/Sportsman. ‘Joy’ has also stayed involved in dirt track racing by sponsoring drivers such as Sammy Martz and John McClelland over the years. The newest Luzi hopes to continue the family tradition and make his family proud at Bridgeport this coming season.

The fourth member to sign up for the 2017 D.A.’s Auto Body Rookie Series is 51 year-old Nazareth, Pennsylvania’s Jeff Stuart. Stuart has been involved in dirt racing for many years as a spectator and pit member for a few drivers and friends. However, this year Jeff is finally going to get behind the wheel of a Crate/Sportsman and try it himself! Stuart will be piloting last year’s rookie champion racecar of Chuck Sayres. Sayres will still be racing with the ‘regular’ Crate/Sportsman once Stuart completes his 8-lap rookie event. The shared ride is a 2014 Teo chassis that will carry No. 38. Some of the sponsors that will be dressed on the No. 38 machine will be John & Kathy Mac/Land Image, Hamill Flooring, Williams Auto Parts/Napa, CTS Lawn Care, Pizza Villa, ERK Steering, Rodney Stevenson-State Farm, and Paul’s Auto & Diesel Repair. “I wouldn’t be able to do this without the help of a lot of people,” admitted Stuart. “From Chuck letting me use the car, some of the sponsors that are helping me, and Ryan Watt’s crew. I’m really looking forward to practice day and that first rookie race!
The name Belmont is no stranger to dirt racing in the northeast by any means. Well, Brett Belmont will be carrying on the family name at Bridgeport Speedway in 2017 as he becomes the 5th D.A.’s Auto Body Rookie to sign up. The 19 year-old Langhorne, PA rookie is the son to well-known racer Andy Belmont. The Belmonts will be out in full force this season as Brett’s brother Andrew and uncle Kevin will be competing in the Crate/Sportsman division on a weekly basis. Father Andy has many wins at Bridgeport coming back in the 1980’s, while his brother Kevin has won a few of his own in the past couple of seasons at the 5/8 mile. Brett will be driving the No. 63 which is a 2008 Bicknell with a 602 crate engine under the hood. Brett raced 1/4 midgets 10 years ago is looking forward to jumping behind the wheel of a ‘big car’ in March. The Belmont machine will have plenty of sponsors that Brett hopes to bring with him into victory lane: They are Woody’s Bourbon Cream, Belmont’s Garage, KB Letterin’, ISC Racer Tape, G Force Racing Gear, Mechanics Wear, Continental Fire & Safety, Phil-Mart Transportation, Mod Space Motorsports, and PWD Wholesale. Father Andy will lead the brigade back in the pit area along with brother Andrew, uncle Kevin, uncle Tom, Dan, Jim, Dave, and George. The question is which Belmont will find the winner’s circle first? Brett will have the first shot on Friday, March 24.
Rookie #6 – Jim Cheesman has decided to throw his hat in the ring to become the 2017 Bridgeport Speedway Rookie track champion. Cheesman is basically new to stock car racing but that isn’t stopping Jim from becoming heavily involved in the sport. The 36 year-old crew man turned racer hails from Bridgeton, NJ. Cheesman will be steering a 602 crate ’14 Bicknell chassis that will carry the No. 587. “The number is the month and year my wife was born, so that’s how we came up with 587,” explained Cheesman. This rookie is still in search of sponsorship to help with his 2017 efforts. “Right now, Pete (Visconti) has been helping me and pointing me in the right direction with things. I helped him the past few years when I got introduced to dirt track racing.” Cheesman’s winter project is almost complete of having a new garage built to house is new ‘racing toy’. “I liked being in the pits and loved being at the track so I thought, it would be even better behind the wheel of one of these things. It’s going to be a family affair as my wife is pretty excited about this season as well.”

Past champions include Ian Humphreys (’13), Matt Peck (’14), Steve Kemery (’15), and Chuck Sayres (’16). The first driver looking to join that group is Oliva Ingersoll. As of now, Olivia seems to be the only female entry in this year’s rookie field (Shannon Marshall placed third in last year’s rookie points). Ingersoll got her introduction to racing just three short years ago by helping fellow friend and Big Block racer Mike Franz. “Once I started coming to the race track, I just fell in love with everything and really wanted to race,” expressed Ingersoll. Oliva tried her hand at a couple of ‘Powder Puff’ races on the 1/4 mile and all that did was increase her desire even more to try it ‘for real’. So she went out and purchased an ’06 Teo car that will carry No. 95, along with a 602 crate engine. Ingersoll was able to get two late practice sessions in last season in the final two events at Bridgeport. The 21 year-old Gibbstown, NJ resident works on the car all by herself. “I don’t really have a crew other than Mike’s crew to help at the track, and if I have a question, I usually ask Mike for advice.” Although the odds may look stacked against this young lady, you can never count out hard work and determination.

The second driver to officially declare themselves eligible for the 2017 D.A.’s rookie class is Keith McKinley. Although a rookie driver, Keith is no stranger to Bridgeport as he has been racing in the 4-cylinder class the past few seasons on the Spirit Auto Center 1/4 mile on Friday nights. “I just wanted to move up really. The 4-cylinders were fun but I was ready for a change,” offered McKinley. The 40 year-old Deptford, NJ driver purchased an ’08 Dirt Wheels chassis this off-season so he could participate in the ’17 rookie series. McKinley is currently working on securing some sponsorship for his No. 9 Sportsman to help aid him in his rookie quest. His girlfriend Jennifer Hardy and his uncle Terry are his pit crew for his rookie campaign this season.
The third driver to register into the D.A.’s Auto Body Rookie Series for 2017 is young Tommy Errico Jr.
If you recognize the Errico name, you’re not imagining things. Tom Errico Sr raced in the late 80s and early 90s at both Bridgeport and East Windsor Speedways. The elder Errico did record a win at Sportsman win at Bridgeport and a couple at Windsor 25 plus years ago. Now, it’s time for his son to carry the ‘racing’ torch in the family. The second-generation driver was able to shake down the car a couple of times late last season while Sr. also jumped behind the wheel to help with the set up. Tommy Jr will be piloting an ’04 Troyer powered by a 602 crate motor. The 19 year-old Feasterville, Pa driver will carry the ‘X-Rated’ number on the sides of his Crate/Sportsman hot rod. Some of the sponsors that make it all happen for the Errico Team are K&M Trucking, R. Miller & Sons Automotive, and Sunglass Central. If you were to take a visit into the pit area you’d be likely to find Billy Culver, Colin Barber, and of course Tom Sr. turning some wrenches each and every weekend. You can count on Errico Jr to try everything he can to keep up the family tradition by making it into Bridgeport Speedway’s victory lane at some point this season.

Well, there ya have it fans. What a rookie field that Bridgeport Speedway has assembled for this season. Believe it or not there are still a few more drivers that may join the dozen already registered. Drivers who have expressed interest that have not yet committed to running the whole series are Bryan Gusley, Joseph Brown, Ken Andreas, Joe Infante, and Jimmy Chester. We wish all the D.A.’s Auto Body Rookies a safe and successful 2017 season.