A reminder to fans that tonight’s racing schedule also includes O’Reilly Midwes All-Star 410 sprint cars. Tonight’s $13,000 purse pays $2,000 to win the feature.

The track is offering a special ticket package for tonight, including:

– Those holding a ticket stub from the May
18 or May 25 race nights will receive a $2 per ticket discount for adult,
senior or teen tickets.

– In addition, all kids 10 and under will get
in free.

– A family ticket will be available for $45 for two
adults and two teens, a $5 savings over individual ticket prices.

– Tonight’s individual ticket prices are adults (16 to 64) $15, seniors (65-over) $12,
teens (11-16) $10.

– The pit gates open
at 3 p.m., spectator gates at 4. Hot laps will start at 6 and racing at 6:30 p.m.

Late models, modifieds and stock cars are also on the menu. The hobby stocks are idle tonight.

 
LET’S GO RACIN’ BOYS!

We’re two months into the dirt-track season, so it can no longer be classified as "early." Trends have developed, disappointments are commonplace and contenders have emerged.

Here’s one man’s opinion on what has come to pass so far at the place we all call our second home — the Broadway Bullring:

LATE MODELS
Top driver: Flip a coin between Jason Frankel and Justin Reed. Frankel is on a roll, leading three different points races and two weeks ago swept Friday-Saturday-Sunday features at Donnellson, West Burlington and Quincy. Reed is tied for first in points at Quincy and has a Deery Brothers Summer Series victory to his credit.

Steven DeLonjay has been a big surprise
in the modified division … or has he?

Biggest surprise: Jason Perry has been steady all spring and currently sits fifth in points, just five from the lead.
What to watch for: Matt Bailey is 21st in points. The move upward will start soon.

MODIFIEDS
Top driver: Michael Long. I hope that selection was not a surprise.

Biggest surprise: Steven DeLonjay. We knew "The Kid" would be good, but THIS quick?

What to watch for: Joe Bliven and Jeff Waterman to begin a steady climb up the points standings. Bliven is currently ninth, Warerman 11th.

STOCK CARS
Top driver: I still like Jeff Mueller to eventually take command of the points. He currently sits third.

Biggest surprise: The struggles of Sarah Woodhurst, who may have already encountered more problems in her rookie season in this class than she did her first years in hornets and hobby stocks combined.

What to watch for: The championship of this series to go down to the final week of points racing.

HOBBY STOCKS
Top driver: Wes Mayfield has been a pleasant surprise as points leader, but I like Aaron Brocksieck’s consistency.

Biggest surprise: I thought Jim Powell would be an immediate contender upon his return to this division, but there have been more downs than ups for the Hannibal, Mo., veteran.

What to watch for: A charge by both Steve Carlin and Bobby Anders toward the top of the points.

QUINCY RACEWAYS SUNDAY NIGHT GUIDE

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Forecast: Temperatures are supposed to be in the 70s with a chance of — surprise, surprise — thunderstorms. If it rains again, it is all Jack Walbring’s fault.

LEADERS

Track Points

Late Models: Jason Frankel 110, Joey Gower 110, Justin Reed 110, Terry Gallaher 107.
Modifieds: Michael Long 129, Tony Dunker 116, Steven DeLonjay 112, Brandon Lennox 109.
Stock Cars: Chris Wibbell 185, John Oliver Jr. 182, Jeff Mueller 181, Abe Huls 179.
Hobby Stocks: Wes Mayfield 118, Aaron Brocksieck 116, Steve Carlin 115.

Feature Points

Late Models: Jason Frankel 106, Joey Gower 104, Terry Gallaher 104, Justin Reed 103.
Modifieds: Michael Long 120, Tony Dunker 113, Steven DeLonjay 110.
Stock Cars: Chris Wibbell 185, John Oliver Jr. 182, Jeff Mueller 181, Abe Huls 179.
Hobby Stocks: Wes Mayfield 115, Aaron Brocksieck 111, Steve Carlin 106.

Heat Points

Late Models: Justin Reed 7, Dustin Neese 6, Joey Gower 6, Lonnie Bailey 5.
Modifieds: Michael Long 9, Joe Bliven 5, Wyatt Lantz 5.
Stock Cars: No heat points awarded in this class.
Hobby Stocks: Steve Carlin 9, Bobby Anders 6, Aaron Brocksieck 5.

Herald-Whig Performance Points

Late Models: Mark Burgtorf 44, Denny Woodworth 42, Robby Warner 24.
Modifieds: Michael Long 80, Brandon Lennox 31, Dave Wietholder 26.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. 32, Jeff Mueller 25, Abe Huls 17.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck 32, Steve Carlin 22, Wes Mayfield 15.

Money Earned (Points races only)

Late Models: Robby Warner $1,155, Jason Frankel 1,110, Joey Gower 1,075.
Modifieds: Michael Long $1,235, Tony Dunker 740, Brandon Lennox 700.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. $1,055, Jeff Mueller 1,035, Chris Wibbell 950.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck $360, James Leffew 300, Wes Mayfield 260.

THE SKINNY

Late Models: Sure, it’s only two months into the season, but have you noticed Jason Frankel is either tied or the sole leader in points at three different tracks — Quincy, West Burlington and Donnellson? No wonder he is No. 1 in those Stevie Dirt Regional Rankings … Never underestimate the importance of those heat races. Although only a handful of points are awarded in comparison to the feature, but it’s the heat races that could ultimately decide a close battle for a track championship. Look at this week’s points, using Justin Reed as an example. Take away his heat points and instead of being tied for first he would be eighth … Mark Burgtorf will not win a track title this year, but will he be on hand enough to earn enough points to maintain his 23-year streak of top-10 finishes? He’s currently 14th.

Most recent feature winner: Jason Frankel, May 18

Pick to click: Justin Reed.

Modifieds: One of the drivers who has enjoyed a solid first two months of the season with little fanfare is Travis Griffith of Liberty. Griffith will enter Sunday night seventh in points … Missouri drivers own just three of the top 20 points positions with No.. 4 Brandon Lennox the highest ranked from across the river … Hannibal, Mo., firefighter Mark Van Winkle is expected to return to the track Sunday, driving a car supplied by Tony Dunker. Van Winkle won the 1996 "A" modified track title.

Most recent feature winner: Michael Long, May 18

Pick to click: Michael Long. Going for sixth straight Sunday night feature victory, which would match his best Quincy streak of 2007. Counting a May 17 Scotland County win, Long enters the weekend with six in a row.

Stock Cars: Don’t be surprised if this series joins the late models and modifieds in 2009 with average weekly car counts of 20 or more. There are still a few more local cars expected before season’s end, and coupled with the natural growth that is expected in the offseason, this could be a heckuva division come April 2009 … There seems to be a strong buzz among spectators and drivers alike concerning the stock cars. Everyone appears to enjoy what they see, especially the door-to-door, highly competitive features. That’s what was missing from the class the stock cars replaced — the four-cylinder hornets, which never really caught on with fans or enough potential drivers.

Most recent feature winner: Jake Wenig, May 18

Pick to click: John Oliver Jr.

Hobby Stocks: Have you noticed the car count improving? The last three shows (that weren’t rained out) have averaged 14.7, quite an improvement over those first two weeks when 9 and 11 hobby stocks showed up … The highest car count of 2007 was 19 on June 3 … Only four different drivers have won heat races, led by Aaron Brocksieck and Steve Carlin with three apiece … There is only one former track champ (Carlin) in this season’s hobby stock lineup. 

Most recent feature winner: Aaron Brocksieck, May 18

Pick to click: Aaron Brocksieck.

STEVIE DIRT REGIONAL RANKINGS

LATE MODELS
Last week’s rankings in parentheses
1. (1.) Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 117 points
2. (2.) Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., 103
3. (4.) Justin Reed, Quincy, Ill., 100
4. (2.) Denny Woodworth, Mendon, Ill., 96
5. (6.) Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 87
6. (5.) Keith Pratt, Mendon, Ill., 68
7. (7.) Tom Darbyshire, Morning Sun, Iowa, 61
8. (8.) Joey Gower, Quincy, Ill., 48
9. (9.) Robby Warner, Quincy, Ill., 47
10. (16.) Matt Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 41

Previous No. 1 Rankings
Week 2: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.
Week 1: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.

 MODIFIEDS
Last week’s rankings in parentheses
1. (1.) Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 170 points
2. (2.) Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa, 97
3. (3.) Brandon Lennox, New London, Mo., 94
4. (5.) Josh Foster, Montrose, Iowa, 86
5-tie. (6.) David Holder, Clarence, Mo., 69
5-tie. (4.) Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill., 69
7. (10-tie.) Tyler Cale, Donnellson, Iowa, 61
8. (7.) Tony Dunker, Quincy, Ill., 57
9. (8.) Dean McGee, Galesburg, Ill., 53
10. (18.) Andy Krieger, Burlington, Iowa, 42

Previous No. 1 rankings
Week 1: Michael Long

I have to admit that when I was fine-tuning the numbers that follow, I was a bit surprised by all of the different drivers who have led feature laps this season.

I would imagine I’m like more than a few of you. It seems like modified standout Michael Long leads every lap of every main event in every class. And if it’s not him, it’s late model legend Mark Burgtorf.

But the numbers show us the wealth has been spread around more than might be imagined. And that’s a good thing.

The most important things to me are:

• 32 different drivers have led a feature during the weekly Sunday night shows, which is close 50 percent of the drivers who frequent the track on a weekly basis.

• 11 different drivers have led at least 20 laps, which is outstanding when you consider there has only been six weeks of Sunday night racing.

On the other hand:

• Long has led 85 of 125 modified feature laps, including 85 of the past 100.

FEATURE LAPS LED
Weekly Sunday shows only

Late Models
Mark Burgtorf, 58 laps
Robby Warner, 30
Jason Frankel, 26
Terry Gallaher, 20
Keith Pratt, 10
Kevin Tomlinson, 4
Dustin Griffin, 1
Jason Perry, 1

Modifieds
Michael Long, 85 laps
Dave Wietholder, 24
Jeff Waterman, 4
Jared Schlipman, 4
Joe Bliven, 3
Bob Woodrow, 3
Robbie Reed, 1
Ronnie Woods, 1

Stock Cars
Jeff Mueller, 21
Jake Wenig, 21
John Oliver Jr., 19
Chris Wibbell, 18
Dave Wietholder, 10
Doug Huls, 9
Levi Long, 5
Chris Webb, 4
Steve Steinkuhler, 2
Bruce Hatfield, 1

Hobby Stocks
Steve Carlin, 29
Bobby Anders, 22
Aaron Brocksieck, 20
Jim Powell, 13
James Lefffew, 6
Travis Booher, 5

Jason Perry is the only late model driver
to complete every lap of every feature.

The following numbers show the total number of feature laps completed. Here are some of the oddities:

• Jason Perry is the only late model driver to complete every lap (150) of every feature. Burgtorf is 120-for-120, but missed one week.

• Long is the only modified driver to stay on the leap of all 125 main event laps this season.

• The Reed that is second in the modified listing is Todd, not former track champ Robbie, who missed two weeks following a kidney operation.

• Chris Wibbell is the only stock car driver with a perfect mark, completing all 110 laps.

• Bobby Anders is the lone hobby stocker to run all 95 laps in what has been an attrition-dominated division. Only nine drivers in this series have completed more than 50 percent of the feature laps.

FEATURE LAPS RUN
Weekly Sunday shows only

Late Models
Jason Perry, 150 laps
Robby Warner, 149
Ron Elbe, 130
Dustin Neese, 127
Lonnie Bailey, 127
Jerry Weisenberger. 125
Terry Gallaher, 123
Jason Frankel, 120
Justin Reed, 120
Joey Gower, 120
Bill Genenbacher, 120
Keith Pratt, 120
Denny Woodworth, 120
Mark Burgtorf, 120
Dustin Griffin, 101
Kevin Tomlinson, 100

Modifieds
Michael Long, 125
Todd Reed, 122
Steven DeLonjay, 117
Shawn Deering, 107
Joe Bliven, 108
Brandon Lennox, 102
Dave Wietholder, 100
Rob Carter, 100
Travis Griffith. 99
Wyatt Lantz, 95

Stock Cars
Chris Wibbell, 110 laps
Marty Hull Jr., 108
Bruce Hatfield, 107
Chris Webb, 102
Dave Wietholder, 96
Jeff Mueller, 95
John Oliver Jr., 92
Steve Steinkuhler, 90
Abe Huls, 85
Doug Huls, 75

Hobby Stocks
Bobby Anders, 95
Wes Mayfield, 91
Steve Carlin, 89
Aaron Brocksieck, 87
James Leffew, 72
Jeremy Buss, 68
Jim Powell, 67
Nathan Anders, 58
Chad Cannady, 49
Travis Booher, 40
Steve Watkins Jr., 40

LATE MODELS RETURN TO DONNELLSON

Late models will run for the second time this season Friday night at Lee County Speedway in Donnellson, Iowa. The two most recent Deery Brothers Summer Series tour winners — Justin Reed and Tom Darbyshire — are expected to be in attendance. Reed and Darbyshire sit in a tie for second behind points leader Jason Frankel.

Reed earned his first career Deery Series checkered flag in Allison, Iowa, on May 21, while 2007 track champion Darbyshire took both the checkered flag and the series points lead at Boone, Iowa, Speedway on Memorial Day. Last time out at Donnellson, nobody was able to handle Frankel, who led every lap of a caution-free 25-lap feature.

The draw/redraw event will pay
$800 to win.

Grandstand general admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors and $7 for students 11-17. Kids 10 and under are free.

Race time is 7:30.

Also in the lineup are IMCA modifieds, sportmods, hobby stocks and wild things.

LEE COUNTY SPEEDWAY LATE MODEL POINTS LEADERS
Donnellson, Iowa

1. Jason Frankel, 43 points
2-tie. Tom Darbyshire, 40
2-tie. Justin Reed, 40
4. Matt Bailey, 39
5. Denny Woodworth, 38
6. Lonnie Bailey, 37
7. Matt Strassheim, 36
8. Terry Gallaher, 34
9. Robby Warner, 32
10. Jay Johnson, 32

34 RACEWAY LATE MODEL POINTS LEADERS
West Burlington, Iowa

1. Jason Frankel, 115 points
2. Tom Bowling, 111
3. Lonnie Bailey, 110
4. Boone McLaughlin, 104
5. Jay Johnson, 100
6. Matt Ryan, 98
7. Tom Goble, 94
8. Keith Pratt, 91
9-tie. Matt Strassheim, 89
9-tie. Stephen Kammerer, 89

WORLD OF OUTLAWS LATE MODEL POINTS LEADERS

1. Steve Francis, 1,449 points)
2-tie. Chub Frank, 1,443
2-tie. Darrell Lanigan, 1,443
4. Josh Richards, 1,439
5. Rick Eckert, 1,415
6. Shannon Babb, 1,413

Since last week’s comment on this blog about Tony Dunker being due to end a 56-feature winless streak at Quincy Raceways, there have been several comments about other drivers in the midst of such runs. There was also a request to run an updated list of drivers seeking to end streaks of similar lengths.

I always aim to please, so here is that updated list of the track’s current — and most notable — winless streaks:

Joe Bliven, modifieds, 68 features
Tony Dunker, modifieds, 56
Justin Reed, late models, 46
Jerry Weisenberger, late models, 32
Brandon Lennox, modifieds, 31

(Note: Joe Hooper, modifieds, has not won in 81 features, and Wyatt Lantz, modifieds, has not won in 54, but neither has raced full-time during those periods.)

All of these streaks should be taken with a grain of salt. Cases in point:

• Bliven has missed a handful of races during those 68 dates due to mechanical issues.

• Dunker, Bliven and Lennox were unfortunate enough to find themselves in the same class as Michael Long and Hank DeLonjay, who, for the most part, have dominated the modified division in recent years. DeLonjay retired after 2007 with 13 track titles (10 of them modified) and Long has been next to unbeatable since the start of 2007, winning 21 features, including 12 of the last 14.

• Reed, Weisenberger and many other late model drivers have found their victories few and far between because of the amount of features won by 14-time track champ Mark Burgtorf. Since 2002, Burgtorf has won 36 features and only one other driver, Lonnie Bailey (16) more than six.

TRACK RECORDS

One of the reasons I’m anxious to see the "new" track surface in action is I think we will witness some — if not all — of these track records fall. It’s been virtually impossible to better some of the early season times because of the roughness of the new .29-mile track in recent weeks.

If the weatherman cooperates Sunday night, here are the marks to beat:

Late models: Mark Burgtorf, 70.091 mph, 14.895 seconds, April 20.
Modifieds: Michael Long, 69.735, 14.971 seconds, April 20
Stock Cars: Chris Wibbell, 61.423 mph, 16.997 seconds, April 20
Hobby Stocks: Steve Carlin, 60.079 mph, 17.377 seconds, April 6

(Note: All times for each series are the best in feature competition only.)

DARBYSHIRE WINS DEERY EVENT

Tom Darbyshire became the sixth different winner in as many events when he won Monday’s Deery Brothers Summer Series late model feature in Boone, Iowa. The victory was Darbyshire’s second career Deery win.

Darbyshire, of Morning Sun, Iowa, led the distance, being able to keep Justin Reed of Quincy in check after a caution late in the contest brought the 40-lapper to a tight green-white-checkered finish.

Iowa drivers Charlie
McKenna of Clear Lake, Terry Neal of Ely and Todd Cooney of Des Moines rounded out the top five. Jason Frankel of Quincy was 13th.

The $2,000 victory also gave Darbyshire a two-point edge over Cooney in the standings.

The next Deery date is June 10 at Marshalltown, Iowa, Speedway. Pit gates open at 5 p.m., hot laps are at 6:30 p.m. and racing starts at 7:30 p.m.

‘KID ROCKET’ READIES FOR ‘THE DREAM’

Josh "Kid Rocket" Richards, the 20-year-old late model driving sensation from Shinnston, W.Va., will be one of the key names to watch in "The Dream," the $100,000 event June 6-7 on the fabled high banks of Eldora Speedway in Rossburg, Ohio. The Dream is one of the crown jewels in late model racing and will draw more than 200 of the nation’s finest dirt-track hotshoes.

Richards officially became one of the favorites when won the 39th annual Johnny Appleseed Classic Sunday at Eldora. The win was Richards’ first at Eldora, where at age 17 three years ago he became the youngest driver ever to qualify for both The Dream and the World 100. This year’s World 100 is Sept. 5-6.

"I love Eldora," Richards said. "I have ever since I ran my first race there … I grew up going to watch all the big races at Eldora and I’d love to win one of them."

LON-N-N-NG TRIP

Rick Eckert, one of the nation’s elite late model drivers, decided to head east after failing to qualify for Saturday’s  Show Me 100 in West Plains, Mo. Eckert and his team motored 14 hours and 900 miles to compete in Sunday night’s Mid-Atlantic Championship Series (MACS) event at Bedford, Pa., Speedway, where he wound up third in the main event.

What a lousy weekend.

What started out with the promise of a spectacular Sunday-Monday holiday dirtfest at Quincy Raceways  ended up being the first complete Memorial weekend washout at 8000 Broadway since 2004.

The main problem was the pit and access areas at the track. The new track — which, I might add, looked bee-you-tee-full — was ready to race.

"The problem was getting the cars to the track," owner Tony Rhinberger said Sunday, about an hour before having to pull the plug.

Late model driver Jason Perry of Payson was on hand early and even walked out onto the racing surface and was pleasantly surprised. But the pit area was a different matter — and then more rain came Sunday night.

Ugh.

Wiped out was Sunday night’s regular weekly show, plus Monday’s $26,000 sprint car and modifed spectacular.

SPRINT CARS RESCHEDULED

The O’Reilly Midwest
410 All-Star Sprints have been rescheduled for Sunday and will be incorporated into a lineup of late models, modifieds and stock cars. The 410 O’Reilly Sprint Cars will be racing for a $2,000 to win, $200 to start main event.

"The
$2,500 to win Modified Shootout will be rescheduled for a later date this summer
and will be announced as soon as a decision has been made on the exact date," said Jack Walbring, a track spokesman.

Quincy Raceways will be offering ticket deal for Sunday. Those spectators holding a ticket stub for either the May 18 or May 25 race nights will receive a $2 per ticket discount for adult, senior or teen tickets. Kids 10 and under will get in free.

Matt Bailey

A family ticket will be available for $45 for two adults and two teens, a $5
savings over individual ticket prices. The Sunday ticket prices are adults (16
to 64) $15, seniors (65-plus) $12, teens (11-16) $10 and kids 10 and under free. The pit gates will open at 3 p.m. and spectator gates at 4. Hot laps will be at 6 and
racing at 6:30.

STEVIE DIRT REGIONAL RANKINGS

Movement was minimal in the Stevie Dirt Regional Rankings for late models and modifieds. Only 34 Raceway in West Burlington, Iowa, dodged the raindrops.

Matt Bailey of Quincy was the big climber in the late model rankings, thanks to a second-place finish behind his dad, Lonnie, in the 21-car main event. Matt Bailey cracked the top 10 for the first time this season, rising to No. 10 from No. 16.

Andy Krieger of Burlington, Iowa, jumped from No. 18 to No. 10 in the modified rankings. Krieger was third in the feature at 34 Raceway.

LATE MODELS
Last week’s rankings in parentheses
1. (1.) Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 117 points
2. (2.) Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., 103
3. (4.) Justin Reed, Quincy, Ill., 100
4. (2.) Denny Woodworth, Mendon, Ill., 96
5. (6.) Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 87
6. (5.) Keith Pratt, Mendon, Ill., 68
7. (7.) Tom Darbyshire, Morning Sun, Iowa, 61
8. (8.) Joey Gower, Quincy, Ill., 48
9. (9.) Robby Warner, Quincy, Ill., 47
10. (16.) Matt Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 41

11-tie. (10.) Jason Perry, Payson, Ill., 38
11-tie. (12.) Boone McLaughlin, Mediapolis, Iowa, 38
13. (11.) Terry Gallaher, New London, Mo., 37
14. (13.) Andy Nezworski, Buffalo, Iowa, 29
15. (18-tie.) Tom Bowling, Danville, Iowa, 16
16-tie. (14-tie.) Kevin Tomlinson, New London, Mo., 23
16-tie. (14-tie.) Dustin Neese, Nebo, Ill., 23
16-tie. (NR) Jay Johnson, West Burlington, Iowa, 23
19. (17.) Steve Grotz, Quincy, Ill., 17
20. (18-tie.) Matt Ryan, Davenport, 16

On the bubble: Sam Halstead, New London, Iowa, 15; Bill Genenbacher, Camp Point, Ill., 13; Mike Garland, De Witt, Iowa, 12.

Previous No. 1 Rankings
Week 2: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.
Week 1: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.

REGIONAL RECAP

34 Raceway, West Burlington, Iowa: The father-son combo of Lonnie and Matt Bailey garnered the top two positions in Saturday night’s feature. Sam Halstead, Jay Johnson and Tom Bowling rounded out the top five. Jason Frankel, track points leader and the No. 1 driver in the SDRR, finished 10th. Matt Bailey’s strong showing, good for 20 SDRR points, catapulted him into the top 10 portion of the rankings.

MODIFIEDS
Last week’s rankings in parentheses
1. (1.) Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 170 points
2. (2.) Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa, 97
3. (3.) Brandon Lennox, New London, Mo., 94
4. (5.) Josh Foster, Montrose, Iowa, 86
5-tie. (6.) David Holder, Clarence, Mo., 69
5-tie. (4.) Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill., 69
7. (10-tie.) Tyler Cale, Donnellson, Iowa, 61
8. (7.) Tony Dunker, Quincy, Ill., 57
9. (8.) Dean McGee, Galesburg, Ill., 53
10. (18.) Andy Krieger, Burlington, Iowa, 42

11. (9.) Steven DeLonjay, Quincy, Ill., 40
12. (19-tie.) Dennis Laveine, Burlington, 38
13. (10-tie.) Rich Smith, Davenport, Iowa, 37
14-tie. (12-tie.) Wyatt Lantz, Augusta, Ill., 36
14-tie. (12-tie.) Mike Weikert Jr., Muscatine, Iowa, 36
16. (14.) Darin Thye, Burlington, Iowa, 35
17. (15.) Jeff Waterman, Quincy, Ill., 31
18. (16.) Gary Blackburn. Fulton, Mo., 30
19. (17.) Joe Bliven, Quincy, Ill., 29
20-tie. (19-tie.) Terry Wilson, Bowling Green, Mo., 26
20-tie. (19-tie.) Vance Wilson, Curryville, Mo., 26
20-tie. (NR) Bill Parks, Colchester, Ill., 26

On the bubble: Scott Hogan, Vinton, Iowa, 25; Brad Carson, Colchester, Ill., 25; Kevin Goben, Sherrard, Ill., 22; Tony Fraise, Donnellson, Iowa, 20; Scotty Roberts, Columbia, Mo., 20; Chris Larson, Keokuk, Iowa, 20.

Previous No. 1 rankings
Week 1: Michael Long

REGIONAL RECAP

34 Raceway, West Burlington, Iowa: Tyler Cale drove to the feature checkered flag Saturday night and climbed to No. 7 in the SDRR. Josh Foster, who won three straight main events in Quincy in 2006, was second. Andy Krieger, Dennis Laveine and Chris Larson completed the top five.

BLOOMQUIST COLLECTS $42,000 PAYCHECK

Dirt late model legend Scott Bloomquist won the 16th annual O’Reilly Show Me 100 Saturday night at West Plains Motor Speedway in West Plains, Mo, en route to the 42,000 first-place payday.

Jimmy Mars, Terry Phillips, Earl Pearson Jr., Shannon Babb and Brian Birkhofer followed Bloomquist across the start-finish line.

There were 79 late models on hand, representing 18 states.

Steve Francis had the fast qualifying time around the .375-mile mile oval with a 14.717 second lap. Francis received $2,000 for his efforts.

QUINCY RACEWAYS SUNDAY/MONDAY GUIDE

Race time: 6:30 p.m. for the regular Sunday show; 6 p.m. Monday for the $26,000 O’Reilly Midwest All Star 410 Sprint Car and Modified shootout. Between 30-40 sprint cars and 50-70 modifieds from five states and Canada are expected.

Weather forecast: Earlier this week, the forecast was great. Now it’s 50-50 whether or not we’ll get in either of the scheduled events. Let’s root for some sort of front from the south to blow all the rain north toward Wisconsin. It’s still winter up there anyway and no one will notice.

10 DRIVERS TO WATCH THIS WEEKEND — AND WHY

1. MICHAEL LONG, modified: Local fans will get a chance to see the unbeatable (well, almost …) No. 18 go up against some of the top drivers in this area of the nation.

2. JUSTIN REED, late model: He won the Memorial Weekend race in Quincy in 2006 and is coming off his first-ever Deery Brothers Summer Series victory Wednesday in Allison, Iowa. The stars look like they could be aligned.

3. JASON FRANKEL, late model: The last driver not named Mark Burgtorf to win back-to-back features at 8000 Broadway was Frankel, Aug. 12-19, 2007. He can repeat that feat with a win Sunday.

4. AARON BROCKSIECK, hobby stock: He’s arguably been the most consistent driver in this class.

It has been 56 main events since
Tony Dunker has won.

5. JEFF MUELLER, stock car: The leader of the Iowa Invasion currently sits third in points, but my money remains on him as the man to beat for the championship.

6. LONNIE BAILEY, late model: The 2004 track champ continues to search for that perfect set-up, and when he finds it we’ll all know.

7. KEITH PRATT, late model: A week ago, No. 33 was riding a tidal wave of momentum but was sidelined following that nasty first-lap crash in the feature. He needs a strong showing Sunday to get back in the points race.

8. TONY DUNKER, modified: He is so-o-o-o-o due for a feature victory. It’s been 56 main events at Quincy since the two-time track champ has taken the checkers.

9. JASON PERRY, late model: That first career feature victory could come any week now.

10. STEVE STEINKUHLER, stock car: He could be the first Quincy area driver to win a feature in this division.

RECENT MEMORIAL WEEKEND FEATURE WINNERS

Late Models
2007: Mark Burgtorf
2006: Justin Reed
2005: Mark Burgtorf
2004: Rained out
2003: Mark Burgtorf
2002: Lonnie Bailey
2001: Brent Slocum
2000: Gary Russell
1999: Tommy Elston
1998: Gary Wilson

Modifieds
2007: Michael Long
2006: Hank DeLonjay

"A" Modified
2005: Mark Burgtorf
2004: Rained out
2003: Vance Wilson
2002: Terry Wilson
2001: Vance Wilson
2000: Mike Karhoff
1999: Mark Burgtorf
1998: Steve Grotz

"B" Modified
2005: Joe Bliven
2004: Rained out
2003: Wyatt Lantz
2002: Gary Dreyer
2001: Joe Hooper
2000: Randy Uppinghouse
1999: Gary Dreyer
1998: Jeff Cooley

Hobby Stock
2007: Richie Wagy Jr.
2006: Adam Birck
2005: Jeff DeLonjay
2004: Rained out
2003: Steve Carlin
2002: Bill Genenbacher
2001: Eddie Dieker
2000: Eddie Dieker
1999: Richie Wagy
1998: Joe Bliven

LEADERS

Track Points

Late Models: Jason Frankel 110, Joey Gower 110, Justin Reed 110, Terry Gallaher 107.
Modifieds: Michael Long 129, Tony Dunker 116, Steven DeLonjay 112, Brandon Lennox 109.
Stock Cars: Chris Wibbell 185, John Oliver Jr. 182, Jeff Mueller 181, Abe Huls 179.
Hobby Stocks: Wes Mayfield 118, Aaron Brocksieck 116, Steve Carlin 115.

Feature Points

Late Models: Jason Frankel 106, Joey Gower 104, Terry Gallaher 104, Justin Reed 103.
Modifieds: Michael Long 120, Tony Dunker 113, Steven DeLonjay 110.
Stock Cars: Chris Wibbell 185, John Oliver Jr. 182, Jeff Mueller 181, Abe Huls 179.
Hobby Stocks: Wes Mayfield 115, Aaron Brocksieck 111, Steve Carlin 106.

Heat Points

Late Models: Justin Reed 7, Dustin Neese 6, Joey Gower 6, Lonnie Bailey 5.
Modifieds: Michael Long 9, Joe Bliven 5, Wyatt Lantz 5.
Stock Cars: No heat points awarded in this class.
Hobby Stocks: Steve Carlin 9, Bobby Anders 6, Aaron Brocksieck 5.

Herald-Whig Performance Points

Late Models: Mark Burgtorf 44, Denny Woodworth 42, Robby Warner 24.
Modifieds: Michael Long 80, Brandon Lennox 31, Dave Wietholder 26.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. 32, Jeff Mueller 25, Abe Huls 17.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck 32, Steve Carlin 22, Wes Mayfield 15.

Money Earned (Points races only)

Late Models: Robby Warner $1,155, Jason Frankel 1,110, Joey Gower 1,075.
Modifieds: Michael Long $1,235, Tony Dunker 740, Brandon Lennox 700.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. $1,055, Jeff Mueller 1,035, Chris Wibbell 950.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck $360, James Leffew 300, Wes Mayfield 260.

THE SKINNY

Late Models: No driver in this series has yet demonstrated the consistency needed to put a headlock on the points lead. Jason Frankel won three features last weekend after struggling for several weeks and all eyes will be on him to see if he can remain running at the front of the pack … Justin Reed is an intriguing name to watch. He has been THAT close to a breakout season for the last couple of years, and could Wednesday’s Deery Brothers Summer Series victory catapult him to such a season? … Have you noticed who is lurking right behind the three drivers tied for the points lead — Frankel, Reed and Joey Gower? Yep, four-time track champ Terry Gallaher. Don’t overlook the Silver Fox.

Most recent feature winner: Jason Frankel, May 18

Pick to click: Jason Frankel.

Modifieds: Brandon Lennox could be the next modified driver to run off some sort of impressive streak. Lennox, fourth in points at Quincy and also running well at Moberly on Saturday nights, might be a good sleeper pick if Michael Long would run into a stretch of bad luck. Lennox’s best season was second in points in 2005 …  It’s refreshing to report that not once this week was I asked if thought Long was running anything illegal. And not once did I have to say, "No he isn’t. He’s just THAT good." … Rookie Steven DeLonjay continues to draw early season raves for his ability to keep that No. 35 up near the front.

Most recent feature winner: Michael Long, May 18

Pick to click: Michael Long. The streak lives.

Stock Cars: Have you noticed how two Quincy area drivers — Steve Steinkuhler and Dave Wietholder — have been doing in this class in recent weeks? Slowly, but surely the local drivers are getting this stock car thing figured out. Second-half points should be interesting to chart this summer … Track owner Tony Rhinberger is excited about how he thinks this class will grow, and well he should be. Not only is this division expected to grow numerically, but when it does those stock car features will become even more exciting. And they’re already pretty sweet from a spectator’s standpoint … Four drivers are within six points of first place.

Most recent feature winner: Jake Wenig.

Pick to click: Jeff Mueller.

Hobby Stocks: Points leader is Wes Mayfield, the former modified driver enjoying a nice comeback season. I think this is Mayfield’s first week atop a points list in his QR career … We hear Aaron Brocksieck might be moving to the stock cars in 2009 … Speaking of Brocksieck, he will be trying to become the first hobby stocker to win back-to-back features this season. Brocksieck’s five total victories tie him for second at track with Jeff Mueller (stock cars) and Mark Burgtorf (late models). Modified ace Michael Long has 11 wins.

Most recent feature winner: Aaron Brocksieck.

Pick to click: Bobby Anders.

STEVIE DIRT REGIONAL RANKINGS
Last rankings in parentheses:

Late Models

Modifieds (first week of rankings)
1. Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 170 points
2. Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa, 95
3. Brandon Lennox, New London, Mo., 94
4. Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill., 69
5. Josh Foster, Montrose, Iowa, 66
6. David Holder, Moberly, Mo., 65
7. Tony Dunker, Quincy, Ill., 57
8. Dean McGee, Galesburg, Ill., 53
9. Steven DeLonjay, Quincy, Ill., 40
10-tie. Tyler Cale, Donnellson, Iowa, 37
10-tie. Rich Smith, Davenport, Iowa, 37

KEY WEEKEND FOR SOME DRIVERS
from "Trouble in Turn Three," www.geoffreystephens.com

If the following drivers cannot step up this weekend, maybe they should just step off.

NASCAR Sprint Cup: Coca-Cola 600

PAUL
MENARD: You drive for Dale Earnhardt, Inc., so why is your claim to
fame the way you wear your hat and your awful sideburns? Menard sits
24th in points and has just one top-10 finish (2007) in 50 career Cup
starts. In 2008, Menard has a best of 14th at Talladega, which
means nothing since my dog could finish 15th there if she caught the
draft.

SAM
HORNISH, JR.: Let’s face it, the "Indy Invasion 2008" has failed
miserably. After his run in the All-Star event last week, Hornish has a
chance to change that statement. At Daytona in February, while teammate
Ryan Newman was victorious, Hornish had a career-best finish of 15th.
This could be the last race in which his Dodge will be allowed to
"slide" around the track like a crab, so why not slide it into the
winner’s circle?

IndyCar: Indianapolis 500

RYAN
BRISCOE: Briscoe is in one of the top rides this season,
owned by
14-time Indy 500 winner Roger Penske. That being the case, why is he in
16th in points? In 2005, Briscoe struggled to make a splash in the
IndyCar with his Chip Ganassi team and was involved in a season-ending
crash late in the year. After that, Briscoe raced part-time until
landing the Penske ride. Aside from failing to qualify with a Foyt
Enterprises entry in 2006, Briscoe has run well at Indy (10th in 2005,
fifth last year). He starts third on Sunday and needs to put that
Penske
where it belongs, in victory lane.

A.J. FOYT IV: An "Indy
miracle" is what the young Foyt needs on Sunday to earn the right to
use his historic last name. In driving for IRL founder Tony George, you
would think his results would be better.  Foyt is 14th in
points — the same position as his career high in 2007. In four career
Indy starts, his high is 14th last year. You’re a Foyt.
Drive like it, son.

Formula One: Grand Prix Of Monaco

NICK
HEIDFELD: The BMW Sauber team has been a breath of fresh air. Heideld
sits fifth in driver points, one spot behind teammate Robert Kubica.
However, after 137 F1 starts it is time for Heidfeld to step up and
take his first checkered flag. He has eight podium finishes but has yet to reach victory lane or finish
higher than fifth in points.

MARK WEBBER: Webber is in position to
have his best F1 season yet, currently seventh in points with the mid-pack
Red Bull Racing Team (which also features the underachieving David
Coulthard, who has yet to score a point in 2008). With 108 career
starts, Webber only has a pair of third-place finishes
to show.

Quincy Raceways will have a new track surface in place before Sunday night’s regularly scheduled show and Monday night’s $26,000 modified/sprint car spectacular.

A variety of crews and specialists have been working at the .29-mile facility all week in an effort to correct the problems that have plagued the facility this season. Track owner Tony Rhinberger says the problem areas between turns three and four, plus those between one and two, will be eliminated before weekend racing.

Construction work on the track last fall, which lengthened and widened the racing area, coupled with this spring’s heavier-than-normal rainfall, helped create an extremely rough racing surface. A large rut between turns three and four has been especially troublesome.

Check Saturday’s edition of The Herald-Whig for more details on the "new" track and more informaton about Monday’s big modified/sprint car show.

REED WINS FIRST DEERY RACE

Quincy Raceways regular Justin Reed rolled to his first-ever Deery Brothers Summer Series late model tour victory Wednesday night.

Justin Reed won a Deery Brothers
race on Wednesday in Allison, Iowa.

Reed led all 40 laps at Highway 3 Raceway in Allison, Iowa, turning back challenges from Clint Wendel, Rob Toland, Boone McLaughlin, Matt Strassheim and Jason Frankel. Frankel was the only other Quincy driver in the top 24.

Reed pocketed $2,000 for the victory in becoming the series’ fourth straight first-time winner. Reed joins Mike Collins, Andy Nezworski and Denny Woodworth as first-time winners.

The streak of consecutive new winners is the longest since 1987, when the series saw different drivers in victory lane through its first six events.

Reed’s previous best Deery finish had been second, in the April 29 show at 34 Raceway in West Burlington, Iowa.

Next on the Deery schedule is a date at Boone Speedway for its traditional Memorial Day show.

QUINCY RACEWAYS PERFORMER OF THE WEEK

Toughest call of the season, but I went with late model driver Jason Frankel, whose impressive Sunday night drive capped a weekend that saw him win three features — Quincy, Saturday at 34 Raceway and Friday Lee County Speedway.

Frankel also moved in the No. 1 position in the Stevie Dirt Regional Rankings.

Honorable mention goes to modified driver Michael Long, who won his fifth straight feature at Quincy. Long also won the main event at Scotland County Speedway.

Previous Racers of the Week
2: Keith Pratt, late models
1: Robby Warner, late models

NATIONAL LATE MODEL RANKINGS
from latemodelracer.com

Last week’s rankings in parentheses
1. (1.) Billy Moyer, Batesville Ark.
2. (2.) Jimmy Owens, Newport, Tenn.
3. (3.) Steve Francis, Ashland, Ky.
4. (4.) Scott Bloomquist, Mooresburg, Tenn.
5. (7.) Josh Richards, Shinnston, W. Va.
6. (6.) Shannon Babb, Moweaqua, Ill.
7. (5.) Earl Pearson Jr., Jacksonville, Fla.
8. (8.) Shane Clanton, Locust Grove, Ga.
9. (14.) Tim McCreadie, Watertown, N.Y.
10. (18.) Jimmy Mars, Menomonie, Wis.

Victory leaders: Moyer 10, Owens 6, Mars 4.

FRANKEL LEADS WEST BURLINGTON LATE MODEL POINTS

1. Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 84 points
2. Tom Bowling, Danville, Iowa, 75
3. Boone McLaughlin, Mediapolis, Iowa, 70
4. Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 70
5. Tom Darbyshire, Morning Sun, Iowa, 69
6. Matt Ryan, Davenport, Iowa, 68
7. Tom Goble, Burlington, Iowa, 65
8-tie. Keith Pratt, Mendon, Ill., 63      
8-tie. Stephen Kammerer, Blue Grass, Iowa, 63
10. Joey Gower, Quincy, Ill., 61

INDIANAPOLIS 500 FORECAST
from "Trouble in Turn Three," www.geoffreystephens.com

We all know that Sunday will be the 92nd annual running of the Indianapolis 500, but who has the best chance at reaching victory lane? Statistically speaking, of course …

Everyone likes statistics, so I will rank the 33 drivers who make up the field using the following formula:

• In past races: 3 points for each pole, 10 points for each win, 5 points for each 2nd-5th place finish, 2 points for each 6th-10th place finish and one point for each finish 11th or lower.

• This month: 10 points for the pole, 5 points for starting second, 4 for third, 3 for fourth, 2 for 5th-11th and one for starting 12th-33rd + 3 points for a driver each time they were fastest in practice for the day during this month excluding "Rookie Orientation" on May 4-5.

• 2008 Starts: 5 points for each IndyCar (excludes Champ Car race at Long Beach) victory in 2008 prior to Indy, 3 points for each 2nd place, 2 points for each 3rd place and 1 point for each finish of 4th or lower.

Helio Castroneves (50) [starts 4th]
Scott Dixon (43) [starts 1st]
Buddy Lazier (42) [starts 32nd]
Dan Wheldon (38) [starts 2nd]
Tony Kanaan (31) [starts 6th]
Buddy Rice (21) [starts 17th]
Marco Andretti (20) [starts 7th]
Danica Patrick (19) [starts 5th]
John Andretti (19) [starts 21st]
Ryan Briscoe (18) [starts 3rd]
Vitor Meira (18) [starts 8th]
Bruno Junqueira (16) [starts 15th]
Tomas Scheckter (14) [starts 11th]
Davey Hamilton (14) [starts 18th]
Ed Carpenter (10) [starts 10th]
A.J. Foyt IV (9) [starts 31st]
Darren Manning (8) [starts 14th]
Graham Rahal (7) [starts 13th]
Sarah Fisher (7) [starts 22nd]
Marty Roth (7) [starts 33rd]
Hideki Mutoh (6) [starts 9th]
Ryan Hunter-Reay (5) [starts 20th]
Townsend Bell (4) [starts 12th]
Justin Wilson (4) [starts 16th]
Will Power (4) [starts 23rd]
Jeff Simmons (4) [starts 24th]
Oriol Servià (4) [starts 25th]
E.J. Viso (4) [starts 26th]
Milka Duno (4) [starts 27th]
Mario Moraes (4) [starts 28th]
Enrique Bernoldi (4) [starts 29th]
Jaime Camara (2) [starts 30th]
Alex Lloyd (1) [starts 19th]

Michael Long’s torrid start to the modified racing season finds him No. 1 in the first Stevie Dirt Regional Rankings.

Long is the defending track champ at Quincy Raceways, where he is currently riding a five-feature victory streak. He also is atop the inaugural Top 20 by a comfortable margin. Long’s 170 points are almost double that of No. 2 Bill Roberts (95) of Burlington, Iowa, and No. 3 Brandon Lennox (94) of New London, Mo.

Rankings points are earned through feature finishes at Quincy, plus Iowa tracks in West Burlington and Donnellson and Missouri stops in Memphis and Moberly. Points are awarded on a 25-20-15-12-10-8-6-4-2-1 scale.

Quincy Raceways regulars occupy only three of the top 14 positions. That is quite different from the SDRR for late models where 10 of the first 11 positions are Quincy-based drivers.

STEVIE DIRT REGIONAL RANKINGS

1. Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 170 points
2. Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa, 95
3. Brandon Lennox, New London, Mo., 94
4. Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill., 69
5. Josh Foster, Montrose, Iowa, 66
6. David Holder, Moberly, Mo., 65
7. Tony Dunker, Quincy, Ill., 57
8. Dean McGee, Galesburg, Ill., 53
9. Steven DeLonjay, Quincy, Ill., 40
10-tie. Tyler Cale, Donnellson, Iowa, 37
10-tie. Rich Smith, Davenport, Iowa, 37

12-tie. Wyatt Lantz, Augusta, Ill., 36
12-tie. Mike Weikert Jr., Muscatine, Iowa, 36
14. Darin Thye, Burlington, Iowa, 35
15. Jeff Waterman, Quincy, Ill., 31
16. Gary Blackburn. Fulton, Mo., 30
17. Joe Bliven, Quincy, Ill., 29
18. Andy Krieger, Burlington, Iowa, 27
19-tie. Terry Wilson, Bowling Green, Mo., 26
19-tie. Vance Wilson, Curryville, Mo., 26
19-tie. Dennis Laveine, Burlington, Iowa, 26

On the bubble: Scott Hogan, Vinton, Iowa, 25; Brad Carson, Colchester, Ill., 25; Kevin Goben, Sherrard, Ill., 22; Tony Fraise, Donnellson, Iowa, 20; Bill Parks, Colchester, Ill., 20; Scotty Roberts, Columbia, Mo., 20.

CLOSING IN ON "THE CRANK"

Long’s five feature victories at Quincy Raceways have pulled him within six (42-36) of retired Hank "The Crank" DeLonjay on the track’s "modern era" modified career list. Statistics have only been kept since 1999. Thanks to his fast start, Long has an opportunity this season to become modern era career leader in total, feature, heat and dash victories. Here’s how the leaders look in those four areas:

Total modified career wins (features, heat races, trophy dashes)
Since 1999, through May 18

Hank DeLonjay, 130
Michael Long, 110
Tony Dunker, 81
Wyatt Lantz, 66
Vance Wilson, 57
Joe Hooper, 47
Brandon Lennox, 42
Joe Bliven, 40
Dave Wietholder, 32
Ryan Meyer, 32

Total modified feature wins

Hank DeLonjay, 42
Michael Long, 36
Vance Wilson, 28
Wyatt Lantz, 21
Joe Hooper, 18
‘Tony Dunker, 12
Joe Bliven, 8
Sam Burgtorf, 8
Gary Wilson, 8
Greg Uppinghouse, 8
Mike Karhoff, 8

Total modified heat wins

Hank DeLonjay, 73
Michael Long, 57
Tony Dunker, 52
Wyatt Lantz, 32
Joe Hooper, 26
Brandon Lennox, 25
Joe Bliven, 23
Rob Carter, 23
Ryan Meyer, 20
Brandon Brown, 20

Total dash wins

Michael Long, 17
Vance Wilson, 16
Tony Dunker, 15
Hank DeLonjay, 15
Brandon Lennox, 11
Wyatt Lantz, 10
Robbie Reed, 8
Joe Bliven, 7
Dave Wietholder, 6
Brandon Brown, 6

"TROUBLE IN TURN THREE"

One of our favorite contributors to this site, Geoffrey Stephens, has changed the name his blog to "Trouble in Turn Three" at www.geoffreystephens.com.

"As you can see, we are now ‘Trouble In Turn Three,’" Sephens said. "This is to avoid any confusion with the Carmageddon video game, which this site is in no way affiliated with."

That aside, he has offered us more insight, this time from the NASCAR All-Star festivities over the weekend and the upcoming Indianapolis 500:

• Dale Jarrett can finally say it’s over.

• (Announcer) Mike Joy can stop trying to get over the annoying catch phrase "checkers
or wreckers" that he used a thousand times on Saturday.

• Sam Hornish, Jr. can
stop wishing he were at Indy this month after proving he can put
together a decent run (second in the Showdown, sixth in the All-Star race).

• Racer-turned announce Jimmy Spencer can add some gray to his toupee since his sideburns are aging.

• NASCAR can hopefully keep the same format for an all-star race two
years in a row. Seriously, it’s abysmal when even the announcers are having
trouble deciphering the rules.

• Do you realize that this year will be the 51st straight Indy 500 that an Unser, Foyt and/or Andretti has been in the field?

• Todd Bodine told a blatant lie following the Craftsman Truck Series race at Charlotte. After
blatantly punting Ron Hornaday, Jr., Bodine said he was just trying to
bump draft. Bump drafting at Lowe’s Motor Speedway? In the dog leg?
Please. Bodine was sent to the back and Hornaday was not
punished for giving Bodine an unfriendly tap under caution. Hornaday
kept the points lead after finishing 23rd, one lap down, and Bodine
remained 3rd after a 12th-place result.

After struggling to find
his place in the Cup series following a stellar Nationwide career,
Bodine has seemingly found his niche in the Trucks. With 13 victories
in 96 starts, along with a championship in 2006, he has found a home in
the pickups. However, if Bodine starts up with the "Cueball" antics once again, he may find himself behind the eight ball once again.

• Following the Craftsman Truck Series event at Lowe’s Motor Speedway
last Friday, here are the updated NASCAR Multiseries Standings:

1. Kyle Busch (4115)
2. Clint Bowyer (3230)
3. Carl Edwards (2990)
4. David Ragan (2787)
5. Kevin Harvick (2672)
6. David Reutimann (2539)
7. Denny Hamlin (2400)
8. Tony Stewart (2398)
9. Jeff Burton (2379)
10. Dale Earnhardt, Jr. (2241)
11. Greg Biffle (1978)
12. Kasey Kahne (1861)
13. Bobby Labonte (1703)
14. Mike Bliss (1700)
15. Travis Kvapil (1670)

Three weekend feature victories
helped Jason Frankel vault
to the top of the Stevie Dirt
Regional Rankings.

Jason Frankel says he has a "meticulous" maintenance program when it comes to his late model.

"I probably spend more hours a week working on my car than I do at my job," he said. "You don’t have the best equipment, but the equipment you have has to work."

Frankel’s maintenance process, coupled with his talent behind the wheel, has seen the Quincy driver rocket to the top of the Stevie Dirt Regional Rankings for late models.

Frankel won weekend features at Quincy and at Iowa tracks in West Burlington and Donnelson. That trio of victories shot him from No. 7 to No. 1 in the SDRR, which awards points on a 25-20-15-12-10-8-6-4-2-1 basis for feature placements at Quincy, West Burlington, Donnellson and Scotland County in Memphis, Mo.

"It had been a long time since I had raced at Lee County, but the track was black and slick, like I like it," Frankel said. "And I just love Burlington. It usually stays nice and slick."

Many of the Quincy Raceways regulars have been frequenting West Burlington (34 Raceway) and Donnellson (Lee County Speedway), which is illustrated in the latest rankings. Quincy hotshoes own the top six and 10 of the first 11 spots.

STEVIE DIRT REGIONAL RANKINGS
Last rankings in parentheses:

1. (7.) Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 116 points
2. (1.) Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., 103
3. (2.) Denny Woodworth, Mendon, Ill., 96
4. (4.) Justin Reed, Quincy, Ill., 92
5. (3.) Keith Pratt, Mendon, Ill., 68
6. (9-tie) Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 62
7. (6.) Tom Darbyshire, Morning Sun, Iowa, 61
8. (5.) Joey Gower, Quincy, Ill., 48
9. (8.) Robby Warner, Quincy, Ill., 47
10. (9-tie) Jason Perry, Payson, Ill., 38

11. (14-tie) Terry Gallaher, New London, Mo., 37
12. (12.) Boone McLaughlin, Mediapolis, Iowa, 32
13. (11.) Andy Nezworski, Buffalo, Iowa, 29
14-tie. (NR) Kevin Tomlinson, New London, Mo., 23
14-tie. (13.) Dustin Neese, Nebo, Ill., 23
16. (NR) Matt Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 21
17. (NR) Steve Grotz, Quincy, Ill., 17
18-tie. (17-tie.) Tom Bowling, Danville, Iowa, 16
18-tie. (14-tie) Matt Ryan, Davenport, Iowa, 16
20. (16.) Bill Genenbacher, Camp Point, Ill., 13

On the bubble: Mike Garland, DeWitt, Iowa, 12;  Gary Russell, Biggsville, Ill., 12; Jay Johnson, Burlington, Iowa, 12;

MODIFIED REGIONAL RANKINGS DEBUT TUESDAY

Come back tomorrow for the inaugural Stevie Dirt Regional Rankings for modifieds, which will use the same point system as the late models. Tracks where features are being scored for the rankings are Quincy, West Burlington, Donnellson, Scotland County and 24 Raceway in Moberly, Mo.

OTHER REGIONAL LATE MODEL WEEKEND RESULTS

LEE COUNTY SPEEDWAY, Donnellson, Iowa: Frankel dominated the caution-free, 25-lap feature after earning a front-row redraw starting position. Matt Bailey had a strong showing in the runner-up position, while defending track champion Tom Darbyshire finished on the podium. Justin Reed and Denny Woodworth completed the top five in the 20-car field.

34 RACEWAY, West Burlington, Iowa: Frankel picked up his second victory of the weekend as Quincy regulars led a sweep of the top three positions. Reed and Steve Grotz followed Frankel across the start-finish line. Frankel already has a healthy, nine-point (84-75) lead in the points race over Tom Bowling.

QUINCY RACEWAYS POINTS LEADERS

Late Models: Jason Frankel 110, Joey Gower 110, Justin Reed 100, Terry Gallaher 107.
Modifieds: Michael Long 129, Tony Dunker 116, Steven DeLonjay 112, Brandon Lennox 109.
Stock Cars: Chris Wibbell 185, John Oliver Jr. 182, Jeff Mueller 181, Abe Huls 179.
Hobby Stocks: Wes Mayfield 118, Aaron Brocksieck 116, Steve Carlin 115.

Feature Points

Late Models: Jason Frankel 106, Joey Gower 104, Terry Gallaher 104, Justin Reed 103.
Modifieds: Michael Long 120, Tony Dunker 113, Steven DeLonjay 110.
Stock Cars: Chris Wibbell 185, John Oliver Jr. 182, Jeff Mueller 181, Abe Huls 179.
Hobby Stocks: Wes Mayfield 115, Aaron Brocksieck 111, Steve Carlin 106.

Heat Points

Late Models: Justin Reed 7, Dustin Neese 6, Joey Gower 6, Lonnie Bailey 5.
Modifieds: Michael Long 9, Joe Bliven 5, Wyatt Lantz 5.
Stock Cars: No heat points awarded in this class.
Hobby Stocks: Steve Carlin 9, Bobby Anders 6, Aaron Brocksieck 5.

OTHER REGIONAL MODIFIED WEEKEND RESULTS

Scotland County Speedway, Memphis, Mo.:  Michael Long regained the lead late in the 20-lap feature and held on to win on opening night at the Scotland County track. Tony Fraise led most of the early part of the race and was holding off Long until they entered lapped traffic on lap 16. That’s when Fraise went high and Long went low to get around the lapped cars. Long emerged with the lead and then kept Fraise at arm’s length over the final four laps to pick up the victory. Tony Dunker was third. Jim Gillenwater won the "B" modified main event.

Lee County Speedway, Donnellson, Iowa: Josh Foster won his second feature of the season at Donnellson, staving off a hard charging Bill Roberts down the stretch. Jim Gillenwater claimed the sport mod feature.

24 Raceway Park, Moberly, Mo.: David Holder took the "A" modified checkers ahead of Scotty Roberts, Gary Blackburn and Brandon Lennox. Gary Wilson was the "B" modified winner over Blake David and David Kinder.

34 Raceway, West Burlington, Iowa: Scott Hogan, Darin Thye and Andy Krieger swept the top three positions in a 24-car feature.

HERALD-WHIG PERFORMANCE POINTS

Late Models: Mark Burgtorf 44, Denny Woodworth 42, Robby Warner 24.
Modifieds: Michael Long 80, Brandon Lennox 31, Dave Wietholder 26.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. 32, Jeff Mueller 25, Abe Huls 17.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck 32, Steve Carlin 22, Wes Mayfield 15.

MONEY EARNED (Points races only)

Late Models: Robby Warner $1155, Jason Frankel 1,110, Joey Gower 1075.
Modifieds: Michael Long $1,235, Tony Dunker 740, Brandon Lennox 700.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. $1,055, Jeff Mueller 1,035, Chris Wibbell 950.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck $360, James Leffew 300, Wes Mayfield 260.

CATEGORY LEADERS

WINS

Total: Mark Burgtorf 5, Jason Frankel 4.
Feature: Mark Burgtorf 2, four with 1.
Heat: Mark Burgtorf 3, Jason Frankel 2, Lonnie Bailey 2, Justin Reed 2.
Dash: Five with 1.

Total: Michael Long 11, Dave Wietholder 3, Steven DeLonjay 3, Brandon Lennox 3.
Feature: Michael Long 5, Dave Wietholder 1.
Heat: Michael Long 5, Robbie Reed 2, Jared Schlipman 2.
Dash: Brandon Lennox 2, three with 1.

Total: Jeff Mueller 5, John Oliver Jr. 5, Chris Webb 2.
Feature: Jeff Mueller 2, three with 1.

Total: Aaron Brocksieck 5, Steve Carlin 4.
Feature: Aaron Brocksieck 2, three with 1.
Heat: Aaron Brocksieck 3, Steve Carlin 3, Corrie Eifert 2.

DRIVER DOMINANCE INDEX

Simply divide the number of points a driver has earned by the
maximum number available. For example, Michael Long has a perfect score
(1.000) because he has earned a maximum 43 points each of the three weeks
since points racing began. A feature victory is worth 40 and a heat win
is worth three. Stock cars are not eligible to be listed since that series’ heat races do not award points.

Here’s a look at the top 10 overall drivers following May 18 races:

Michael Long, modifieds, 129 for 129, 1.000
Wes Mayfield, hobby stocks, 118 of 129, .915
 Tony Dunker, modifieds, 116 of 129, .899
Aaron Brocksieck, hobby stocks, 116 of 129, .899
Steve Carlin, hobby stocks, 115 of 129, .892
Steven DeLonjay, modifieds, 112 of 129, .868
Bobby Anders, hobby stocks, 111 of 129, .861
Joey Gower, late models, 110 of 129, .853
Jason Frankel, late models, 110 of 129, .853
Justin Reed, late models, 110 of 129, .853

YELLOW FEVER

Here are the average number of yellow flags per show:

Modifieds: 11.7
Hobby stocks: 4.6
Stock cars: 3.4
Late models: 3.2

FEATURE WINNERS

Late models
April 6: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.
April 20: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.
April 27: Robby Warner, Quincy, Ill.
April 30: Denny Woodworth, Mendon, Ill.
May 4: Keith Pratt, Mendon, Ill.
May 11: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.

Modifieds
April 6: Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill.
April 20: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
April 27: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
April 30: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
May 4: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
May 11: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.

Stock Cars
April 6: Jeff Mueller, New London, Iowa
April 20: Chris Wibbell, Dallas City, Ill.
April 27: John Oliver, Jr., Danville, Iowa
May 4: Jeff Mueller, New London, Iowa
May 11: Jake Wenig, Burlington, Iowa

Hobby Stocks
April 6: Steve Carlin, Hannibal, Mo.
April 20: Jim Powell, Hannibal, Mo.
April 27: Aaron Brocksieck, Camp Point, Ill.
May 4: James Leffew, Quincy, Ill.
May 11: Aaron Brocksieck, Camp Point, Ill.

CAR COUNTS

The averages

Late models: 23.8
Modifieds: 23.3
Stock cars: 14.4
Hobby stocks: 12.9

WORLD OF OUTLAWS MATE MODEL SERIES

"KID ROCKET" REIGNS: Josh Richards was pretty excited about the
way he won Friday night’s 50-lap World of Outlaws Late Model Series
A-Main at Raceway Park in Attica, Ohio. Flashing a veteran’s poise, the
fast-rising 20-year-old superstar from Shinnston, W.Va., patiently
chased Chub Frank until finally grabbing the lead from his seasoned
rival on lap 44. He then marched away to register his second tour
victory of 2008. Richards, who
started from the pole position but was overtaken by front-row mate
Frank at the initial green flag, earned $10,150 for his eighth career
triumph on the WoO LMS. He became the second repeat winner in 10 tour
events this season, joining four-time victor Billy Moyer of Batesville,
Ark.

"CHUBZILLA" ROARS: Chub "Chubzilla" Frank took the checkers Sunday night at Lincoln Speedway in Lincoln, Ill., denying Josh "Kid Rocket" Richards a second straight World of Outlaws victory. Defending series champion Steve Francis was third.

LUCAS OIL LATE MODEL DIRT SERIES

BIRKHOFER IS THE MAN: Brian Birkhofer grabbed the lead on lap 30 and then
had to fight off a furious late-race charge from Brian Shirley to win the Banner Valley Hauling 50 Friday night at Farley, Iowa,
Speedway for the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series. The victory was
Birkhofer’s first with the series in 2008 as he became the 10th
different winner in the first 14 events held.  Shirley had a six-car length
lead over Birkhofer and Dennis Erb Jr. when a
caution came out with 29 laps scored. On the restart, Birkhofer powered
to the lead which he never relinquished. Shirley cut Birkhofer’s
sizable lead down with less than five laps remaining in the race and
tried valiantly a couple of times to pass Birkhofer, but Birkhofer held
him at bay as he went on to score the $10,000 for his seventh career
Lucas Oil Series triumph.

McCREADIE ROLLS: Tim McCreadie captured the "Spring
Shootout" Saturday night at the LaSalle, Ill., Speedway, winning his first
Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series race since February 2005. McCreadie
took the lead for good on lap 26 after a side-by-side battle that took
place for several laps between himself and Brady Smith. McCreadie is the 11th different winner in 15 series
events this season.

Sure, it’s been frustrating with three of eight scheduled shows at Quincy Raceways having been rained out, but be thankful you are not a fan whose primary track is at 34 Raceway in West Burlington, Iowa, or Lee County Speedway in Donnellson, Iowa, or Scotland County Speedway in Memphis, Mo., or Macomb Raceway in Macomb, Ill.

Here’s a look at the number of nights of racing fans have seen at the following tracks:

Quincy: 5
West Burlington: 2-x
Lee County: 2
Scotland County: 0
Macomb: 0
x-only two classes were run on one of those nights

All of a sudden, 8000 Broadway looks a lot better, eh? And the good news is the weather forecast looks — shall we say it? — GREAT for Sunday night.

LATE MODELS AT LEE COUNTY

The late models will make one of their five appearances of the season tonight at Lee County Speedway in Donnellson, Iowa. This is a makeup of a rained-out date earlier this year. Tom Darbyshire is the defending track champ at Donnellson. Racing starts at 7:30.

QUINCY RACEWAYS SUNDAY NIGHT GUIDE

Race time: 6:30 p.m.

Weather forecast: No rain. The rest is inconsequential.

LATE MODELS

Points: Joey Gower 78, Justin Reed 75, Keith Pratt 73, Dustin Neese 73, Denny Woodworth 72, Jason Frankel 70.

Herald-Whig Performance Points (track regulars): Mark Burgtorf 44, Denny Woodworth 42, Robby Warner 24, Keith Pratt 18, Justin Reed 15, Joey Gower 12.

Stevie Dirt regional rankings (20 or more points): 1.
Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., 95; 2. Denny Woodworth, Mendon, Ill., 86
3. Keith Pratt, Mendon, Ill., 68; 4. Justin Reed, Quincy, Ill., 54; 5.
Joey Gower, Quincy, Ill., 48; 6. Tom Darbyshire, Morning Sun, Iowa, 46;
7. Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 41; 8. Robby Warner, Quincy, Ill., 35;
9-tie. Jason Perry, Payson, Ill., 34; 9-tie. Lonnie Bailey, Quincy,
Ill., 34; 11. Andy Nezworski, Buffalo, Iowa, 29; 12. Boone McLaughlin,
Mediapolis, Iowa, 26; 13. Dustin Neese, Nebo, Ill., 23.

Money earned (points races only): Joey Gower $895, Keith Pratt 860, Robby Warner 830, Denny Woodworth 705, Justin Reed 700.

Most recent winner: Keith Pratt, May 4.

The skinny: Ron Elbe (3,994) is six points shy of becoming the sixth late model driver to reach 4,000 career track points since Quincy adopted IMCA scoring in 1998. Others are Mark Burgtorf (5,960), Denny Woodworth (5,112), Terry Gallaher (4,526), Lonnie Bailey (4,507) and the late Brent Slocum (4,003) …  There have been four different trophy dash winners already this season: Bailey, Clint Kirkham, Woodworth and Robby Warner. Career dash winners (since 1998): Bailey 25, Burgtorf 23, Woodworth 22 …  Ten different local drivers have won heat races, led by Burgtorf (3), Jason Frankel (2), Justin Reed (2) and Bailey (2).

Pick to click: Justin Reed.

MODIFIEDS

Points: Michael Long 86, Tony Dunker 78, Steven DeLonjay 75, Dave Wietholder 73, Wyatt Lantz 72.

Herald-Whig Performance Points (track regulars): Michael Long 69, Dave Wietholder 26, Brandon Lennox 24, Vance Wilson 15, Jeff Waterman 13.

Money earned (points races only): Michael Long, $835, Wyatt Lantz 490, Tony Dunker 490, Steven DeLonjay 400, Dave Wietholder 400.

Most recent winner: Michael Long, May 4.

The skinny: Tony Dunker, currently second in points, has the longest active streaks of both top five (7) and top 10 (8) points finishes … Only two drivers have won more than one heat race: Michael Long (4) and Robbie Reed (2) … Dash winners: Brandon Lennox (2), Steven DeLonjay and Long. Career leaders (since 1998): Long (17), Vance Wilson (16), Hank DeLonjay (15), Dunker (15).

Pick to click: Michael Long. (Duh.)

IMCA STOCK CARS

Points: Abe Huls 152, Jeff Mueller 152, Chris Wibbell 150, John Oliver Jr. 143, Doug Huls 138.

Herald-Whig Performance Points (track regulars): Jeff Mueller 25, John Oliver Jr. 24, Abe Huls 17, Chris Wibbell 16.

Money earned (points races only): Jeff Mueller $950, John Oliver Jr. 830, Chis Wibbell 825, Abe Huls 800, Steve Steinkuhler 545.

Most recent winner: Jeff Mueller, May 4.

The skinny: Jeff Mueller, Abe Huls, Chris Wibbell and Doug Huls are finished on the lead lap of all 85 laps of feature competition this season … Steve Steinkuhler of Camp Point is seventh in points, the highest of any of the Quincy regulars who came to this class from another 2007 series. Dave Wietholder of Liberty is eighth … Only four drivers have won heats, paced by Mueller (3) and John Oliver Jr. (3). 

Pick to click: Doug Huls.

HOBBY STOCKS

Points: James Leffew 82, Wes Mayfield 78, Bobby Anders 75, Aaron Brocksieck 73, Steve Carlin 73, Corrie Eifert 72.

Herald-Whig Performance Points (track regulars): Aaron Brocksieck 21, James Leffew 17, Steve Carlin 14, Bobby Anders 11, Wes Mayfield 11.

Money earned (points races only): James Leffew $250, Aaron Brocksieck
210, Wes Mayfield 180, Bobby Anders 135, Nathan Anders 130, Jeremy Buss
130, Corrie Eifert 130.

Most recent winner: James Leffew, May 4.

The skinny: This series is still waiting for its first two-time feature winner. Aaron Brocksieck, Steve Carlin, Jim Powell and James Leffew have all accepted the checkers once … Brocksieck, Carlin and Corrie Eifert have each won two heats … Travis Booher (2,871) is likely three or four weeks away from becoming the 10th hobby stocker to reach 3,000 career track points. Retired Eddie Dieker (5,692) and Carlin (4,354) are the all-time leaders. 

Pick to click: Bobby Anders. He’s due.

FEATURE WINNERS

Late models
April 6: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.
April 20: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.
April 27: Robby Warner, Quincy, Ill.
April 30: Denny Woodworth, Mendon, Ill.
May 4: Keith Pratt, Mendon, Ill.

Modifieds
April 6: Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill.
April 20: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
April 27: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
April 30: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
May 4: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.

Stock Cars
April 6: Jeff Mueller, New London, Iowa
April 20: Chris Wibbell, Dallas City, Ill.
April 27: John Oliver, Jr., Danville, Iowa
May 4: Jeff Mueller, New London, Iowa

Hobby Stocks
April 6: Steve Carlin, Hannibal, Mo.
April 20: Jim Powell, Hannibal, Mo.
April 27: Aaron Brocksieck, Camp Point, Ill.
May 4: James Leffew, Quincy, Ill.

Ten drivers, in no particular order, I would like to share a trackburger and diet Mountain Dew with while watching a Bristol race:

Joe Bliven epitomizes what
Quincy Raceways is all about.

1. JOE BLIVEN: To me, Joe epitomizes what Quincy Raceways is all about. He races for the love of the sport. It’s not about traveling to all corners of the earth, it’s about showing up every week at your home track and doing the best you can against the guys you call your friends.

2. JERRY WEISENBERGER: "The Hippie," or as he prefers, "The Redneck," has never won a track title and probably never will (although every fan in the stands at 8000 Broadway, including this writer, wishes he would before his career is over). He races hard every lap, every race and every week. I appreciate that, and so do all of those fans in the stands every Sunday night.

3. DUSTIN NEESE: Simply one of the nicest guys to ever frequent the Bullring. He doesn’t realize it, but there a lot of race followers who pull for him each and every week. They know he does not have a big budget or big crew, and they know there may not be a racer who gets more out of what he has than Neese.

4. MARK BURGTORF: I have never encountered an athlete with Burgtorf’s status who is as humble. He never dodges a question and always provides an intelligent, well-thought-out answer that is as educational as it is informative. Mark has proven for years that nice guys CAN finish first.

5. TONY DUNKER: OK, he may be a bit controversial, but what I admire most about him is his passion. He comes to compete each week, not simply ride around and collect a check. If he is second, he wants to be first. If he is 14th, he wants to be 13th. I admire that.

6. KEITH PRATT: He’s one of the young turks at the track, but he respects the tradition and the veterans who have made the place special. He’s also matured quite a bit the last few years and it shows in his on-track abilities. It’s guys like Pratt who make me think the late model division will be strong for years to come.

7. MICHAEL LONG: Controversy seems to find him for the strangest reasons. In his younger days, I seem to remember a memorable feud with Ryan Meyer. Nowadays, it because he’s winning too much. Whaaaat? I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again — let’s enjoy what he is accomplishing. We may never see another streak like this for a long, long time.

8.  ROBBIE REED: He’s currently recovering from kidney surgery, so first and foremost we want to see him behind the wheel again more than anything else. I’ll always remember how he let me have it pretty good late in 2006 after I had written several late-season articles all but awarding another modified title to Hank DeLonjay. Lo and behold, Reed surprised us all and won that championship. I’ll never forget that stretch run of Reed’s — if for no other reason, because he won’t let me.

9. WYATT LANTZ: It’s great to see him running full time against at Quincy. A former track champ and, like Burgtorf, extremely humble. I had one of my most memorable post-race interviews with him a few years ago at the height of his dominance in the old "B" modified class. Wyatt tried to explain to me how he was killing everyone without coming off the least bit arrogant. That, my friends, is the mark of a true champion.

10. TERRY GALLAHER: Can you imagine the stories he has to tell? What a long and crazy ride it’s been for the silver-haired hotshoe from Hannibal. I’ve heard some of those stories, and I would like to hear more.

(To be continued)

NATIONAL RANKINGS

Shannon Babb’s $40,000 victory in the Lucas Oil Diamond Nationals has vaulted him to No. 6 in the latemodelracer.com late model rankings. Here’s a look at the latest top 10, with last week’s ranking in parentheses:

1. (1.) Billy Moyer, Batesville, Ark.
2. (2.) Jimmy Owens, Newport, Tenn.
3. (3.) Steve Francis, Ashland, Ky.
4. (4.) Scott Bloomquist, Mooresburg, Tenn.
5. (5.) Earl Pearson Jr., Jacksonville, Fla.
6. (9.) Shannon Babb, Moweaqua, Ill.
7. (6.) Josh Richards, Shinnston, W. Va.
8. (7.) Shane Clanton, Locust Grove, Ga.
9. (14.) Don O’Neal, Martinsville, Ind.
10. (8.) Ray Cook, Brasstown, N.C.

CENTRAL REGION RANKINGS
For races run inside Central Region only

1. (1.) Dennis Erb Jr., Carpentersville, Ill.
2. (4.) Todd Cooney, Des Moines, Iowa
3. (2.) Darren Miller, Chadwick, Ill.
4. (3.) Al Purkey, Coffeyville, Kan.
5. (7.) Ray Moore, Shreveport, La.
6. (13.) Shannon Babb, Moweaqua, Ill.
7. (14.) Brian Birkhofer, Muscatine, Iowa
8. (-) Lee Davis, Greenwood, La.
9. (5) Jeremy Payne, Springfield, Mo.
10. (6.) Billy Moyer, Batesville, Ark.

Other notable drivers
11. (-) Denny Woodworth, Mendon, Ill.
15. (8.) Boone McLaughlin, Mediapolis, Iowa
24. (-) Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.
31. (-) Justin Reed, Quincy, Ill.
46. (28.) Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.

NEXT BIG EVENT

Ka-ching!

The 16th annual O’Reilly Show Me Late Model 100 in West Plains, Mo., will offer an incredible $42,000 to win and $4,200 to start the main event. The total purse for the May 22-24 big show will exceed $200,000.