Bridgeport Motorsports Park

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.

This weekend is shaping up to be a one to remember for all those who will be attending Bridgeport Speedway. For the fifth consecutive year Bridgeport and their staff will be honoring the late Doug Hoffman and just what he meant to the track and racing in general. However, for the first time in it’s history, the ’60over Special’ event will now be a two day racing affair. Everything kicks off on Friday, March 24 with 358 small blocks headlining the program. The D.A.’s Auto Body Rookies will be competing in their first race of the season and the Big Blocks, Crate/Sportsman, and the Outlaw Stocks will be hot lapping throughout the night trying to lock into Saturday’s feature events. Then on Saturday, Hand one of this year’s Poker Series will take place with the Big Blocks fighting for a $4,400 first place prize in their 44-lap race, while the Crate/Sportsman duke it out for $1,000 in their 25-lap tussle, and the Outlaw Stocks battle it out for $500 in a 15-lap event. Live music, Bandit Bus rides, Moon Bounce, Frisbee Redraw Giveaway, Doug Hoffman model car raffles, and most of all great side by side racing is what’s in store for everyone this weekend at Bridgeport.

Many of the Northeast’s top name drivers have been reaching out to the track to confirm that they’ll be in attendance this coming weekend.

Current Camping World Nascar Truck driver Stewart Friesen will be making the tow to South Jersey as he will be doing double duty in his Halmar International No. 44.

Joining Friesen, is fellow NY chauffer Danny Johnson. The ‘Doctor’ loves making house calls to Bridgeport’s 5/8 mile facility.

The track’s all-time feature winner Jimmy Horton, who’s coming off a huge win down at Georgetown, will be returning to his old stomping grounds this weekend as well.

Duane Howard, last year’s Colonial Pipeline/811 Dig Safely Poker Series Champion, will be looking to pull out another ‘Ace’ from his sleeve on opening day. Howard will be behind the wheel of Norm Hansell’s No. 357 on both nights.

Jeff Strunk will be piloting the well-known Hynemann No. 126 that has driven to so many Bridgeport victories. The Bechtelsville Bullet wants nothing more than to shake that monkey on his back when it comes to the 5/8 mile.

Teenager Ryan Krachun will make his debut behind the of the well-kown Lincoln Auto Body No. 5. Krachun has run well in his few starts at Bridgeport and hopes to represent the once driven Doug Hoffman machine.

David VanHorn is headed to Bridgeport this weekend piloting the Racer’s Guide No.323. VanHorn would like to compete for the Poker Series title and Saturday could be a huge step in the right direction.

Ryan Godown will making his assault on Bridgeport in the Atlas Paving/Petruska No. 66 this weekend. Both car owner and driver know how to get it done at the 5/8 mile. This combo could be the team to beat!

Jordan Watson is another driver who has his sight set on being the 811 Dig Safely Poker Series champion in 2017. Watson was strong at Georgetown as he advanced more positions than any other driver.

The ‘Cream Ridge Bad Boy’ PJ Oliver will be driving an hour south this weekend as he will be mixing it up with the best in the business in his always sharp-looking No. 13xxx

Brett Kressley shocked everyone with his first Big Block victory last season at Bridgeport. After backing it up on several occasions, Kressley is now considered one of the guys to beat at every special event race held at Bridgeport.

Mike White will be trekking north to Bridgeport for the 5th Annual Doug Hoffman Memorial race in his familiar No. 43. The self-owned machine sponsored by Plum Creek Farms & Carey’s Towing always knows the quick way around Bridgeport.

Pennsylvania driver Kyle Borror is extremely looking forward to coming back to Bridgeport to compete on Friday night. The Grandview small block driver enters as many Bridgeport shows as his schedule allows every season.

Kevin Sockriter will towing the No. 55 north on Fri
day night to compete in the Small Block division. Kevin’s been a strong competitor down in his home state of Delaware.

Delaware driver, Shawn Ward is excited about returning to Bridgeport Speedway. Ward likes to run The Port when his schedule allows him to do so. Look for the pristine looking No. 7 this weekend.

John Pakenham who supports the 5/8 when he can will be doing double duty this weekend. “The Puma” will be piloting his self-owned No. 18 Big and Small Block.

Billy Pauch Jr will be steering the Danny’s Pizza Pizzazz No. 51 on both Friday and Saturday. Junior has more shows at Bridgeport scheduled in 2017 than any other year prior.

Danny Bouc informed Bridgeport that he’ll be in the house this weekend. Friday for certain and possibly for Saturday. Bouc loves going fast and Bridgeport is the place he makes that happen!

Frank Cozze has indicated that he’ll be doing double duty the entire weekend. Cozze will bring his new No.401 to South Jersey, as he races in the Doug Hoffman Memorial.

Justin Grim will be making a rare appearance at Bridgeport this weekend. The Grandview/Big Diamond driver is eager to get the season going.

There will probably be a few more drivers on the ‘Invader List’ but these are the ones that have informed us that they’ll be competing.

Now if those driver’s aren’t enough to get the blood pumping what about all the Bridgeport Hot Shoes that will be in the house each and every week throughout the 2017 season.

2013 & 2016 Big Block track champion Ryan Watt will be doing double duty with his Big & Small Blocks at Bridgeport. Watt always puts on a show for the fans each week with his routine charges to the front of the pack.

Rick Laubach will be steering the Ryan Kerr-owned No. 1K and the Gary & Lori Hermann-owned No. 7 this weekend. The 2012 track champion is ready for another stellar year at the 5/8 mile in 2017

Sam Martz has been a fine addition to the weekly field since joining the Bridgeport Family in 2013. Martz is the defending Friends of Mike winner and finished 3rd in points last season.

Wade Hendrickson and the Craig & Leslie Pondish-owned No. 6 will be a threat as always. The ‘Flying Farmer’ showed the invaders the quick way around Bridgeport in last year’s South Jersey Shootout by winning one for the home team.

Billy Pauch Sr has went on record stating that he’ll call Bridgeport his home for the 2017 season. ‘The Kid’ sits 3rd on the all-time win list while also owning 3 track championships. Pauch fans are pumped for the new season!

Richie Pratt felt rejuvenated after last year’s Wildcard Weekend performance. Pratt will be doing double duty in his familiar family-owned No. 28 cars this weekend. ‘Last Lap’ Pratt will be seeking revenge for a subpar 2016 season.

Neal Williams reunited with long-time car owner and friend Sal Debruno last season. ‘The Wheel’ got stronger and stronger as the season progressed. The Overhead Door car will have a brand new look to it for the ’17 campaign.

Jamie Mills was sidelined for three months in 2016 after a wicked accident at Bridgeport. However, very little stops ‘Jammin’ Jamie from rebounding strongly. Look for the Blue Hen Racing No. 30 to be up front come Saturday while Mills gets back to his ’15 championship form.

Dominick Buffalino will be returning back to Bridgeport in 2017 with high hopes. The second-generation driver is the defending winner of this race and expects no less than to be standing in victory lane once again in his No. 51M

David Hunt might just be the ‘dark horse’ of all the drivers this weekend. Another fine addition to Bridgeport since 2013, Hunt is always fast and has collected 5 wins in a short period of time being a regular at the 5/8.

Tommy Beamer has been known to put on some of the most exciting racing of any driver at Bridgeport in the Big Block division. The Don Thornton-owned No. 31 car drives in harder and higher than anyone on the 5/8.

Jesse Hill will be competing both days in the 358s and the Big Blocks with his familiar No. 99. ‘The Thrill’ had a top 5 run going in the Doug Hoffman event last season until the final turn. Hill will be looking for redemption on Saturday.

Where there’s one Hill-Boy there’s another. Jesse’s brother and former Crate/Sportsman champion Travis Hill will be driving the Joel Boinske No. 19 on in Saturday’s Big Block action. Travis is also a multi-winner in the 600 micro class.

CJ Jones is coming off of a phenomenal Big Block rookie season. Jones captured the ’16 ‘Star of Tomorrow’ award while driving to 2 victories last season. Jones looks to get back to his winning ways this season.

Jim Britt also had a great rookie season in 2016. Britt won in dramatic fashion last year over Duane Howard and finished 7th in the overall point standings. With a new paint scheme and some new equipment, Britt looks to top last year’s efforts.

Third-generation driver Clay Butler will be calling Bridgeport his home track in the 2017 season. Butler will be piloting the Cray Motorsports No. 4B this year with a small block and big block as part of his arsenal.

Ryan Anderson…he’s another ‘dark horse’. Anderson is always fast at the 5/8 complex and he’s had some great finishes to prove it. Anderson will be driving his own No. 27 for most of the shows at Bridgeport this year.

Mike Barone has been eagerly awaiting for the season to start in his No. 267. Barone was sat out most of last year regrouping for 2017. Barone has high hopes this season and will look to start that ball rolling on Saturday.

Mike Franz has been a loyal supporter of Bridgeport for many many years. Franz will be chauffeuring his own No. 28z all year long at the Port.

Ernie Miles III got his feet wet last year in the Big Block division. The former micro sprint driver moved into the Crate/Sportsman class two years ago and has now joined the talents of all the modifieds in 2017.

Ron Roberts will once again be turning left and going fast on the 5/8 mile. Roberts and his familiar No. Z14 have what it takes to pull off the upset this weekend. Let’s see if the crafty veteran can get it done!

Dave Shirk will be calling Bridgeport his Saturday night home once again and looks to get everything going in the right direction this coming weekend. Dave and his crew are looking to turn some heads all year long.

Rusty Smith should be doing double duty this weekend with his small and big block chars. The 2013 Poker Series champion is looking to get back in the mix this year after racing on and off again the past two seasons.

Bob Sarkisian will be steering his always well-maintained No. 47 Big Block on Saturday. Sarkisian won a couple of features in the past few seasons on both the 5/8 and the 1/4 mile. Bob is yet another ‘dark horse’ to win.

We can’t forget about a few more of Bridgeport’s finest. Scottie Ambruster, Pete Visconti, Ricky DiEva, Tom Maccherone, Jack Swain, and Bucky Kell are a few guys that you’ll on Saturday night’s but probably won’t be ready in time for this weekend.
The Crate/Sportsman division will be full of talent as well on Saturday. Outsiders who plan on stealing one away from the home team include Jason Rush, Pat Wall, Frank Dorry, Jeremy Martino, Craig Whitmoyer, Brian Hitz, Brian Papiez, Jordan Henn, and many more. Some of the guys who will look to defend the home turf are Brad Roberts, Matt Stangle, Matt Peck, David Crossman, Dave Damiano, Roger Manning, Chris Jenkins, Adam & Clyde Cox, Stephen Kemery, Eric Kormann, Jeremy Harrington, Scott Hulmes, Billy Briggs, Kevin Belmont, Tom Sherby, Jeff Bubori, Chuck Sayres, Pete Serra, Bobby Bracall, Melissa Scarpati and a bunch more!

The Pennco Tech Outlaw Stocks, who always put on an awesome show for the fans will have Bridgeport’s stars and cars as well as some ‘invaders’ this weekend. Ron Frees, Billy Wroble, Vern McLaughlin, and John Meyer are a few drivers looking to take down the regulars like TJ Henry, Tom Wills Jr., Brian Ludwig, Gary Klimeczak, Spider Ensinger, Jeff Dirkes, Jeramy Doerr, and Mike Creamer.

We’ll see everyone this weekend as the weather looks to be almost perfect for this time of the year!
Friday Pits open 3pm – Stands 6pm – Racing 7:30pm
Saturday Pits open Noon – Stands 2pm – Racing 4pm

Bridgeport, NJ – Winter storm ‘Stella’ made her mark here in the Northeast this past week affecting many of the local racetracks. Unfortunately, Bridgeport Speedway (5/8 mile) and Spirit Speedway (1/4 mile) weren’t spared any differently than the other facilities. With substantial amounts of rain compounded with snow and ice, Bridgeport was left with no other option but to cancel it’s annual open practice session this upcoming weekend. Although Sunday does serve as a rain date for Saturday, with the current temperatures and what ‘Stella’ left behind, it would be near impossible to get equipment and cars on the track this weekend.

“We were really looking forward to getting back in the swing of things this weekend,” offered track owner Brian Ramey. “It just looks like Mother Nature had a different plan for all our drivers and fans I guess. It’s on to next week, as we are anticipating a great crowd and car count.” The first action on the race track will be the Friday night portion of the 5th Annual Doug Hoffman Memorial ’60over Special’ Weekend. The 358 small blocks and D.A.’s Auto Body Rookie 2017 class will be in competition (7:30pm), while the Big Blocks, Crate/Sportsman, and Outlaw Stocks will have the opportunity to shake down their equipment while going on the clock for ‘Fast Time’ redraw positions for Saturday’s events. Then, on Saturday, March 25 The Spirit Auto Center Big Blocks, Crate/Sportsman, and Pennco Tech Outlaw Stocks will open their season up starting at 4pm. Both tracks still have an open practice for any and all divisions slated for Saturday, April 1 starting at noon. For all the latest information about the Bridgeport and Spirit Speedway you can locate them on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, or log onto their websites at www.bpspeedway.com and www.spiritspeedway.com.

As Bridgeport Speedway looks to celebrate and honor the life of Doug Hoffman come March 25, we can never forget the vision that has brought us where we are today.  As everyone knows, Doug was my teenage hero growing up.  Damn, who am I kidding?  He still was my hero when I was 30 years old!  Like I said last year at this same time:  It will be a joyous day, a sad day, an exciting day, and a memorable day for everyone that walks through Bridgeport’s gates on Saturday, March 25.

I can remember like it was yesterday, growing up and heading to all the tracks with Gram and occasionally my cousins and friends.  Weekly stops at Flemington and East Windsor and monthly visits to Bridgeport and Nazareth were a fixture while growing up.  It was in 1985 when I first became a Doug Hoffman fan even though he had been winning prior to then.  Leon Conklin’s silver and red No.125 grabbed my attention and ever since then I was a fan.  Ironically Hoffman left Bridgeport to call Flemington his home in ’86 and that solidified my passion for the Allentown, PA driver.  Billy Pauch was the KING of Flemington and no one really had an answer for him.  However, in 1986 Doug Hoffman was the closest thing to that answer.  Winning 5 times and runner up and points to Billy, I was happy to see a new track regular come to ‘The Square.’

Honestly, I was a Stan Ploski my entire life.  But, Stan started to slow down and I kinda needed a new guy or at least an additional guy to root for.  Pauch, Hearn, Horton, Cozze, Brightbill and the others already were established and had fans, so I went with the Doug.  I never regretted that decision, even though it came with a lot of drama, eye glaring, finger pointing, and shouting matches.  Doug had a hell of a career, especially when he took a different route than others.  Most of the guys I already mentioned, along with guys like Alan and Danny Johnson, Craig VonDohren, and many more started on dirt as mere teenagers (15 or 16 years old depending on who you ask).  Doug didn’t really hit dirt track racing until he was 21 or 22 years old, thus giving the other guys a nice head start.  Doug also stopped way before all the guys we’re talking about as well.  I’d have to say he has 482 career wins with about 15 less years than our other dirt track legends….pretty impressive!

When Hoffman took over Bridgeport in 2012, I was happy for him and for short track racing as well.  It was just the weirdest thing I thought:  Here’s Doug running Bridgeport and me, his biggest fan running New Egypt – head to head on Saturday nights.  Doug and I would talk almost every Monday.  If my phone didn’t ring by 2 pm, I picked up the phone and called him.  We’d compare our nights:  what went good, what went wrong, I’d give him advice while he taught me some things too.  I even got a good laugh out of Doug when I said to him one Monday, “You know Doug, you and I were once the two most hated people at East Windsor each and every Friday, and here we are running the only two dirt track lefts in New Jersey”
See, Doug took over  not a sinking ship, but rather a sunken and abandoned ship.   After his first and only year at the helm, the ship was still pretty much sunken BUT, the crew and passengers started to come back and morale was bigger than ever.  Doug looked at Bridgeport in a different way than most people did and was overly optimistic about the future although in a bleak situation.  Listen, I’ve seen the guy start dead last and win races – you couldn’t ever count out Doug Hoffman.  He had a vision that saw Bridgeport making a comeback, getting back to where it once was, and even better heading into the future.  If Doug Hoffman was anything, he was focused.  What Doug wanted to do, couldn’t be done overnight, not even in one season.  Fortunately for the Bridgeport Family, he jump started that vision and passed it on to us.  As time goes on people forget how they got where they’re at, or why they’re even there.  This is Bridgeport’s one race to remember how and why things are the way they are.  Doug had a vision for Bridgeport and now the current assembled team has been fortunate enough to see it become a reality.  Bridgeport is BACK in a BIG way and it all started with one man’s vision.

So shake off those winter blues and make a trip to South Jersey and come celebrate and remember our friend Doug Hoffman.  Come on out and rekindle those ‘summer’ friendships, get caught up on all the gossip, crack open a cold one or maybe a warm one, and oooh yeah, there’s probably going to be some excellent side by side racing too!

Written By: Danny Serrano

Bridgeport, NJ – The 2017 racing season at the Gloucester County oval is quickly approaching.  March 24 marks the ’17 Opening Day featuring the ‘Fifth Annual Doug Hoffman Memorial 60over Special’.  The marquee season lid-lifter honors the late Doug Hoffman and everything he did for and meant to Bridgeport Speedway, in now what is a two-day event.

Practice Sessions:  There are two practice and one Hot Lap scheduled days early in the season.  The first practice will be held Saturday, March 18 from 12pm to 3:30pm.  Drivers and cars of any division are welcomed to shake down their equipment.  Gates open at 9am for early-bird safety inspection held by track Safety Inspector Ed Olsen.  The Spirit Auto Center Speedway 1/4 mile will also be practicing from 3:30 to 5:30pm (2:30pm to 3:30pm alternating tracks).  Grandstands will offer free admission while it will be $25 to enter the pit area.  A reminder to all minors 16 and 17 years old:  Please have a copy of your birth certificate available as well as a parent or guardian to sign the minor release form.  This applies to all Spirit Auto Center Speedway drivers 14 through 17 as well.  A rain date of Sunday, March 19 will be used if needed (same times).

Hot Lap Sessions will take place on Friday evening March 24 on the 5/8 mile only.  Gates open at 3pm with cars slated to hit the track between 730pm to 1030pm in between the 358/Rookie race action.  Big Blocks, Crate/Sportsman, and Outlaw Stock teams will have timed hot lapped sessions during the night where two of the fastest teams will be locked into Saturday’s redraw.  Racers are welcomed to leave their haulers in the pits overnight before the ’60over Special’.

The final practice day will take place the following week on Saturday, April 1 from Noon to 4pm.  Both 5/8 and 1/4 mile venues will be practicing in this final preparation for the 2017 season.

2017 Points:  There are two different point funds in 2017; Regular Season Points and the 811 Dig Safely Poker Series Points.

Poker Series Points:  All drivers placing in the top 13 in their respective divisions will receive playing cards.  A driver or car must be present and register for the evening’s race to be eligible for the Poker Series point fund.  A driver must be competing in 5 of the 6 scheduled events to be eligible to collect Poker Series point fund money.  All Poker Series events will have a $10 car entry fee (except Sept 23) just as in previous years.

Show Up Points:  There are 5 designated races that offer ‘track show up points’ that go towards the 2017 track championship.  Sunday, April 23, Sunday April 30, Sunday May 28, Thursday, June 8, and Monday, July 3.  The driver must register and attempt to qualify (hot laps can count) to receive the 50 points.

D.A.’s Auto Body Rookie Series Race Schedule:
Race #1-Friday, March 24

Race #2-Saturday, April 2

Race #3-Sunday, April 9

Race #4-Saturday, April 15

Race #5-Sunday, April 30

Race #6-Saturday, May 6

Race #7-Sunday, May 28

Race #8-Saturday, June 3

Race #9-Thursday, June 8

Race #10-Saturday, June 17

Race #11-Saturday, June 24 – Rookie Graduation

*On the nights, there are no Rookies scheduled, those following the series are welcomed to race with the regular Crate/Sportsman that evening (March 25, April 23, & May 16).
2017 Tire Rules:  For all Poker, show-up point, and post-season races any modified-style American Stamped Racing Tires are allowed within the correct compounds (33 or harder on fronts, 44 or harder on LR, and 48 or harder on RR).  During regular season point races drivers must have Bridgeport Stamped tires under the correct compounds (44 or harder on fronts, 44 or harder on LR, and 48, 53, 56 or Bridgeport Hard on RR).  New drivers attending Bridgeport should have at least one Bridgeport/Stamped correct compound tire per visit during point shows with each week after adding at least one tire (4 races to have all corners Bridgeport stamped).

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.  16 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.

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In just a few short weeks, the Bridgeport Speedway will honor one of its own when the Fifth Annual 60 Over/Doug Hoffman Memorial Race opens the 2017 season on the 5/8^th mile speedway.

Many credit Doug Hoffman for the resurgence of the Bridgeport Speedway.

The four time track champion took over the reins for the 2012 speedway.  After meeting with (THEN) track owners, Jay James & Brian Ramey, it was clear that Doug Hoffman was the man for the task at hand.

The Big Block Modifieds had been removed from the Saturday night schedule as a last ditch effort on the part of Jay James who had tried just about everything to be successful at the Logan Township race track.  James decided to leave the speedway at the end of the 2011 season, leaving the future of the Bridgeport Speedway as a big question mark as the New Year approached.

James & Ramey met with several interested parties but it was clear that Hoffman was the right man for the job.  “I didn’t know Doug well,” Ramey explained.  “Doug approached us to discuss the possibility of him taking the reins for the 2012 season.  We had several people pursuing the opportunity but none of them had the insight that Doug had.  There was no doubt that he (Hoffman) was the best fit since his heart was in Big Blocks and that is what Bridgeport was designed and built for.”

Hoffman first met with fans and competitors at the Motorsports Show in Oaks, PA in January.  It was a very optimistic and enthusiastic Hoffman that met with the press on Friday night of Motorsports.  He outlined some of his plans for the coming season – the return of the Big Block Modifieds, the introduction of the Poker Series, his plans to make the speedway racier as well as several promotions that were directed for the benefit of the fans at the front gate.

“When people say that Bridgeport is too fast, what they really mean is that there is too much traction,” Hoffman explained.  “We have to produce good racing.  We need a slick surface from top to bottom.  It can’t take down rubber.  It can’t be a one lane track.”  Hoffman talked about how drivers like Tobias, Brightbill, Horton, Pauch and himself as well, traveled to other tracks and won big races, making people sit up and take notice of the drivers who regularly competed at the Bridgeport Speedway.  “It needs to be cool as hell to win at Bridgeport,” Hoffman told the crowd.  He compared it to his induction into the DIRT Hall of Fame in 2011.  “That was freakin’ neat – that’s the feeling we need to create at Bridgeport.”

Afraid that he wasn’t able to meet with everyone during the trade show, Hoffman set up all day meetings the following Saturday at the local Holiday Inn.

As the end of the 2012 season approached, Hoffman could take great pride in what he had accomplished.  Nearly fifty Big Blocks were on hand for the season opener that year – a Race of Champions on Dirt event.  The Poker Series was a huge success when introduced to the fans at Bridgeport.  Hoffman combined efforts with 410 Sprint Car owner, Mike Heffner, to bring the 410s to the Bridgeport Speedway.  He brought the racers to the fans by having the starting line-up stage behind the grandstands, giving the fans a very up close and personal look at the competition.  And he continued a Bridgeport tradition of bringing the top five finishers behind the grandstand after each feature event – a tradition that Hoffman, himself was not a fan of when he competed at Bridgeport.  “I got a lot of heat for that and I deserved it,” Hoffman said of his lack of cooperation as a driver.  “Everybody makes mistakes and I made one with the fans at Bridgeport when I raced there.”  As a promoter, Hoffman saw the other side of the story.

When Hoffman criticized the track preparation during the season, he was told to do it himself – so he did.  If a job needed to be done – cut the grass, pick up trash, talk to a competitor – whatever it was, Hoffman did whatever was needed.

Looking back on the 2012 season, Hoffman said, “The track has raced another year and it didn’t fold on our watch.”   “We’ve had good racing.  I think we put to bed the rumor that you can’t have good racing on a big track.”  Four drivers captured their career first wins that season in Big Block Modified competition – Mike Barone, Eric Kormann, Jesse Hill (with a Small Block) and Stan Frankenfield, Jr.

With ninety-two Bridgeport feature wins and four track championships, Doug Hoffman knew what needed to be done.  While he only had one season as the track’s promoter, there is little doubt that he laid the foundation for what the Ramey family, Keith Hoffman, Dave Adams and Danny Serrano have continued for the last four seasons, since Ramey has taken full ownership of the speedway.

The Bridgeport Speedway will open the gates on the 2017 season with the running of the fifth annual 60 Over Special/Doug Hoffman Memorial Weekend on March 24^th and 25^th.  While it is the fifth year of the race honoring the former track champion and promoter, this will be the first time that the event will be run as a two day event.

Friday night action will see the return of the 358 Small Block Modifieds for a twenty-five lap, $2500 to win main event.  It will be the first race of the season for the DA’s Auto Body & Repair Rookies on the 5/8^th mile track.  All divisions will have the opportunity to participate in the open practice sessions on Friday night so that they can prepare for Saturday’s racing action.  Pit gates will open at 3pm with grandstand access at 6pm.  Racing will get underway at 7:30pm.

On Saturday night, the Spirit Auto Center Big Block Modifieds will compete in qualifying events for a forty-four lap feature event with $4,400 going to the winner.  The Stewart Stainless Crate/Sportsman and PennCo Tech Outlaw Stocks will run qualifying events and features as well.  Saturday’s race card will be the first hand of the 811 Dig Safely/Colonial Pipeline 2017 Poker Series.  Pits will open at noon, grandstands at 2pm and racing will get underway at 4pm.  (There is a rain date set for Sunday, March 26^th should it be needed.)

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

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.”