Month: June 2008

Crazy night for modified driver Wietholder

Posted by seighinger – June 30, 2008

Cleaning out the Sunday night notebook:

Dave Wietholder may have endured the craziest night of any driver
this season at Quincy Raceways.

Wietholder and his No. 5 blue-and-orange modified went airborn,
then rolled during a hot laps mishap coming out of turn one.
Incredibly, the car started, and Wietholder drove it to the pits and was
ready to race by the first green flag.

Wietholder, who was later involved a couple of on-track skirmishes
during the evening, won a heat race and trophy dash before winding up
11th in the feature. The Liberty resident is No. 8 in this week’s
Stevie Dirt Regional Rankings (see below) and fourth in track points.

KARHOFF BACK ON THE TRACK

It was interesting to see Mike Karhoff once again behind the wheel of a modified. Karhoff, who last year was co-owner of Quincy Raceways, finished 16th in the 22-car feature driving one of Tony Dunker’s cars.

Karhoff is No. 3 in the The Herald-Whig’s career "A" modified driver rankings and No. 5 in the combined career modified rankings. The modifieds were unified after the 2005 season.

Although he never won a track title, Karhoff finished second twice in points, finished in the top five on five occasions and in the top 10 nine times.

Karhoff also enjoyed success in a late model before retiring a few years ago, finishing with 23 total victories at Quincy Raceways. That still ranks him among the top 15 since drivers in the modern (IMCA) era.

NEWLYWED FINISHES FIFTH

Chris Wibbell of Dallas City finished fifth in the stock car feature, then left on his honeymoon. Wibbell, who was married Saturday, is second in points to John Oliver Jr., 332-331.

Wibbell is the only driver at the track to complete all of his series’ feature laps. Wibbell ran his string to 205 Sunday night.

HEAT WINNERS

Late models: Tom Goble, Lonnie Bailey, Terry Neal.

Modifieds: Dave Wietholder, Michael Long, Jared Schlipman.

Hobby stocks: John Oliver Jr., Sarah Woodhurst.

TROPHY DASHES

Late models: Terry Neal.

Modifieds: Dave Wietholder.

ATOP THE POINTS

Michael Long has led the modified points race all seven weeks, the only driver to hold down the No. 1 spot all season. In fact, Long has been perched atop the standings for 25 straight weeks dating back to April 2007.

Here’s a look how many weeks the various leaders have spent atop the points standings this season (ties for the lead are counted as a full week leading):

Late models: Jason Frankel 3, Joey Gower 3, Justin Reed 2, Jason Pery 1.

Modifieds: Michael Long 7.

Stock cars: Chris Wibbell 4, John Oliver Jr. 3, Abe Huls 3, Jeff Mueller 2.

Hobby stocks: Aaron Brocksieck 4, Wes Mayfield 2, James Leffew 2.

STEVIE DIRT REGIONAL RANKINGS

The following late model and modified rankings reflect action through June 29.

LATE MODELS
Previous rankings in parentheses

1. (1.) Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 256 points
2. (2-tie.) Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., 168
3. (2-tie.) Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 161
4-tie. (4.) Denny Woodworth, Mendon, Ill., 128
4-tie. (5.) Justin Reed, Quincy, Ill., 128
6. (7.) Matt Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 117
7. (6.) Keith Pratt, Quincy, Ill., 103
8. (9.) Tom Goble, Burlington, Iowa, 99
9. (8.) Tom Darbyshire, Morning Sun, Iowa, 82
10. (10.) Boone McLaughlin, Mediapolis, Iowa, 66

11. (16-tie.) Tom Bowling, Danville, Iowa, 63
12. (11.) Jay Johnson, West Burlington, Iowa, 62
13-tie. (12-tie.) Robby Warner, Quincy, Ill., 61
13-tie. (12-tie.) Terry Gallaher, New London, Mo., 61
15. (14.) Dustin Griffin, Quincy, Ill., 57
16. (19-tie.) Sam Halstead, New London, Iowa, 53
17. (15.) Jason Perry, Payson, Ill., 50
18-tie. (16-tie.) Kevin Tomlinson, New London, Mo., 48
18-tie. (16-tie.) Joey Gower, Quincy, Ill., 48
20-tie. (19-tie.) Dustin Neese, Nebo, Ill., 41
20-tie. (19-tie.) Matt Ryan, Davenport, Iowa, 41

On the bubble: Matt Strassheim, West Burlington, Iowa, 38; Bill Genenbacher, Camp Point, Ill., 35; Colby Springsteen, Morning Sun, Iowa, 35.

Note: Rankings based on performances at Quincy
Raceways, 34 Raceway, Lee County Speedway. Points awarded on
25-20-15-12-10-8-6-4-2-1 scale for feature placements.

Previous No. 1 Weekly Rankings
Week 7: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 2-tie. Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill.
Week 6: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 2. Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.
Week 5: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 2. Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.
Week 4: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 2. Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.
Week 3: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 2. Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.
Week 2: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 2. Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.
Week 1: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., 2. Denny Woodworth, Mendon, Ill.

Late Model Regional Recap

34 Raceway, West Burlington, Iowa: Matt Bailey continued his strong midseason performance by winning Saturday’s feature over Tom Goble, Tom Bowling, Sam Halstead and Colby Springsteen. Justin Reed was sixth and Jason Frankel seventh.

34 Raceway Late Model Points
West Burlington, Iowa
1. Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 303 points
2. Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 290
3. Tom Goble, Burlington, Iowa, 287
4. Tom Bowling, Danville, Iowa, 277
5. Matt Ryan, Davenport, Iowa, 256

Lee County Speedway, Donnellson, Iowa: Rained out Friday night,
rescheduled for Aug. 22. The other late model events on Lee County
schedule this season are July 18 and Aug. 15.

MODIFIEDS
Previous rankings in parentheses

1. (1.) Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 315 points
2. (2.) Tyler Cale, Donnellson, Iowa, 217
3. (3.) Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa, 192
4. (4.) Dean McGee, Galesburg, Ill., 178
5. (5.) Brandon Lennox, New London, Mo., 171
6. (7.) David Holder, Clarence, Mo., 159
7. (6.) Josh Foster, Montrose, Iowa, 140
8. (8.) Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill., 134
9-tie. (9.) Tony Dunker, Quincy, Ill., 110
9-tie. (10.) Tony Fraise, Donnellson, Iowa, 110

11. (11.) Steven DeLonjay, Quincy, Ill., 107
12. (12-tie.) Wyatt Lantz, Augusta, Ill., 94
13. (15.) Andy Krieger, Burlington, Iowa, 84
14. (12-tie.) Robbie Reed, Quincy, Ill., 82
15-tie. (14.) Scotty Roberts, Columbia, Mo., 73
15-tie. (NR) Dennis Laveine, Burlington, Iowa, 73
17. (17.) Jeff Waterman, Quincy, Ill., 71
18-tie. (16.) Mike Weikert Jr., Burlington, Iowa, 66
18-tie. (NR) Vance Wilson, Currysville, Mo., 66
20. (NR) Brandon Savage, Keokuk, Iowa, 65

On the bubble: Darin Thye, Burlington, Iowa, 59; Chris Larson, Keokuk, Iowa, 56.

Note: Rankings based on performances at Quincy Raceways, 34
Raceway, Lee County Speedway, Scotland County Speedway, 24 Raceway. Points awarded on
25-20-15-12-10-8-6-4-2-1 scale for feature placements.

Previous No. 1 Weekly Rankings
Week 6: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 2. Tyler Cale, Donnellson, Iowa.
Week 5: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 2. Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa.
Week 4: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 2. Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa.
Week 3: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 2. Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa.
Week 2: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 2. Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa.
Week 1: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 2. Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa.

Modified Regional Recap

24 Raceway, Moberly, Mo.: No. 1-ranked Michael Long avenged a DQ from two weeks earlier to win Saturday night’s feature over David Holder, Tony Fraise, Mark Van Winkle and Matt Dotson. Thirty-two cars started the feature. Up next is a July 3 special.

24 Raceway Modified Points
Moberly, Mo.

1. David Holder, Clarence, Mo., 434 points
2. Brandon Lennox, New London, Mo., 410
3. Matt Dotson, Sturgeon, Mo., 294
4. Kelly Smith, Kirksville, Mo., 260
5. Randy Mauzey, Madison, Mo., 254

34 Raceway, West Burlington, Iowa: Dennis Laveine led an Iowa driver domination of the feature. Iowa drivers took the first five positions. Filling out the rest of the top five were Brandon Savage, Kevin Cale, Andy Krieger and Bill Roberts Jr.

34 Raceway Modified Points
West Burlington, Iowa

1. Bill Roberts Jr., Burlington, Iowa, 280 points
2. Andy Krieger, Burlington, Iowa, 264
3. Tyler Cale, Donnellson, Iowa, 263
4. Dennis Laveine, Burlington, Iowa 256
5. Dean McGee, Galesburg, Ill., 253

Lee County Speedway, Donnellson, Iowa: Rained out, next up is Thursday’s Liberty Cup special.

Lee County Speedway Modified Points
Donnellson, Iowa
1. Dean McGee, Galesburg, Ill., 226 points.
2. Tyler Cale, Donnellson, Iowa, 224
3. Josh Foster, Montrose, Iowa, 221
4. Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa, 220
5. Mike Weikert Jr., Muscatine, Iowa, 213

Scotland County Speedway, Memphis, Mo.: No races until July 12, after which track will close indefinitely.

Scotland County Speedway Modified Points
Memphis, Mo.

1. Tony Fraise, Donnellson, Iowa, 295
2. Mike Bennett, Des Moines, Iowa, 258
3. Ryan Meyer, Liberty, Ill., 248
4. Jody Wood, Kahoka, Mo., 243
5. Jeff Waterman, Quincy, Ill., 236

QUINCY RACEWAYS LEADERS

Track Points

Late Models: Jason Frankel 248, Justin Reed 239, Lonnie Bailey 238, Robby Warner 230.
Modifieds: Michael Long 285, Tony Dunker 264, Steven DeLonjay 263, Dave Wietholder 245.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. 332, Chris Wibbell 331, Jeff Mueller 313, Doug Huls 301.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck 268, Steve Carlin 264, Wes Mayfield 259, Jim Powell 248.

Second-Half Points

Late Models: Jason Frankel 40, Mark Burgtorf 38, Lonnie Bailey 38, Justin Reed 37.
Modifieds: Michael Long 43, Wyatt Lantz 40, Vance Wilson 39, Steven DeLonjay 38, Jeff Waterman 38.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. 40, Jeff Mueller 39, Doug Huls 38, Andrew Griffin 37.
Hobby Stocks: Jim Leffew 41, Aaron Brocksieck 40, Jim Powell 40, Steve Carlin 39.

Feature Points

Late Models: Jason Frankel 240, Justin Reed 232, Robby Warner 227, Lonnie Bailey 225.
Modifieds: Michael Long 266, Tony Dunker 254, Steven DeLonjay 244.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. 332, Chris Wibbell 331, Jeff Mueller 313, Doug Huls 301.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck 256, Wes Mayfield 253, Steve Carlin 245.

Heat Points

Late Models: Lonnie Bailey 13, Matt Bailey 11, Dustin Griffin 10, Dustin Neese 9.
Modifieds: Michael Long 19, Wyatt Lantz 12, Tony Dunker 10.
Hobby Stocks: Steve Carlin 19, Bobby Anders 12, Jim Leffew 11, Aaron Brocksieck 11.

Herald-Whig Performance Points

Late Models: Mark Burgtorf 101, Denny woodworth 64, Jason Frankel 54.
Modifieds: Michael Long 137, Dave Wietholder 49, Tony Dunker 45, Robbie Reed 44.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. 78, Jeff Mueller 58, Doug Huls 47, Chris Wibbell 42.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck 77, Jim Leffew 67, Jim Powell 63, Travis Booher 62.

Money Earned (Points races only)

Late Models: Jason Frankel $3,850, Mark Burgtorf 3,035, Robby Warner 2,200, Justin Reed 2,160. (Terry Neal has $3,100 from his Sunday night winnings in the Titan Wheel Shootout, but he is not a track regular.)
Modifieds: Michael Long $2,730, Tony Dunker 1,580, Steven DeLonjay 1,530, Wyatt Lantz 1,470.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. $2,005, Jeff Mueller 1,825, Chris Wibbell 1,585.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck $835, Jim Leffew 720, Travis Booher 690.

Victories

Late Models

Total: Mark Burgtorf 11, Lonnie Bailey 5, Jason Frankel 5.
Feature: Mark Burgtorf 4, seven with 1.
Heat: Mark Burgtorf 5, Lonnie Bailey 4.
Dash: Robby Warner 2, Mark Burgtorf 2.

Modifieds

Total: Michael Long 20, Dave Wietholder 6, Steven eLonjay 5.
Feature: Michael Long 8, two with 1.
Heat: Michael Long 8, Jared Schlipman 4.
Dash: Michael Long 4, Dave Wietholder 2, Brandon Lennox 2.

Stock Cars

Total: John Oliver Jr. 8, Jeff Mueller 7.
Feature: Jefff Mueller 2, John Oliver Jr. 2.
Heats: John Oliver Jr. 6, Jeff Mueller 4.

Hobby Stocks

Total: Aaron Brocksieck 7, Steve Carlin 6.
Feature: Aaron Brocksieck 3, Travis Booher 2.
Heat: Steve Carlin 5, Aaron Brocksieck 4.

RECENT TITAN WHEEL AND TIRE LATE MODEL SHOOTOUT WINNERS

2008: Terry Neal, Ely, Iowa ($3,000)
2007: Tom Darbyshire, Morning Sun, Iowa ($3,000)
2006: Jeff Aikey, Cedar Falls, Iowa ($3,000)
2005: Terry Neal, Ely, Iowa
2004: Jamie Wilson, Quincy, Ill.
2003: Terry Gallaher, Hannibal, Mo.
2002: Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill.
2001: Rained out
2000: Jeff Aikey, Cedar Falls, Iowa
1999: Curt Martin, Independence, Iowa
1998: Tommy Elston, Keokuk, Iowa

Support Series

Modifieds

2008: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
2007: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
2006: Danny Lake, New London, Mo.

"A" Modifieds
2005: Hank DeLonjay, Quincy, Ill.
2004: Jim Roach, St. Patrick, Mo.
2003: Vance Wilson, Curryville, Mo.
2002: Hank DeLonjay, Quincy, Ill.
2001: Rained out
2000: Sam Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.
1999: Series did not race
1998: Sam Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.

"B" Modifieds
2005: Terry Houston, Mount Sterling, Ill.
2004: Jack Evans Jr., Keokuk, Iowa
2003: Terry Houston, Mount Sterling, Ill.
2002: Gary Wilson, Frankford, Mo.
2001: Rained out
2000: Series did not race
1999: Series did not race
1998: Bob Dale, Gorin, Mo.

Hobby Stocks

2008: Aaron Brocksieck, Camp Point, Ill.
2007: Aaron Brocksieck, Camp Point, Ill.
2006: Steve Carlin, Hannibal, Mo.
2005: Eddie Dieker, Plainville, Ill.
2004: Eddie Dieker, Plainville, Ill.
2003: Jim Powell, Hannibal, Mo.
2002: Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill.
2001: Rained out
2000: Bill Genenbacher, Camp Point, Ill.
1999: Jason Fleer, Quincy, Ill.
1998: Jim Gillenwater, Keokuk, Iowa

Stock Cars

2008: John Oliver Jr.

FASTEST LAPS

Features only

The following lists now include fastest laps for all features.
Previous listings had only included those for points races and/or
Sunday nights. I felt this would be a truer representation:

Late Models

April 6: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., 67.916 mph
APRIL 20: MARK BURGTORF, QUINCY, ILL., 70.091 mph (IMCA RECORD)
April 27: Robby Warner, Quincy, Ill., 65.414 mph
April 30: Tom Darbyshire, Morning Sun, Iowa, 63.300 mph
May 4: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., 65.010 mph
May 18: Kevin Tomlinson, New London, Mo., 66.624 mph
June 1: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., 69.125 mph
June 8: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., 62.276 mph
June 10: ED DIXON, WASHINGTON, MO., 72.430 mph (UMP RECORD)
June 22: Kevin Tomlinson, New London, Mo., 65.446 mph
June 29: Terry Neal, Ely, Iowa, 68.752 mph

Modifieds

April 6: Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill., 67.037 mph
APRIL 20: MICHAEL LONG, QUINCY, ILL., 69.735 mph (RECORD)
April 27: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 63.480 mph
May 4: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 62.239 mph
May 18: Michael Long, Quincy Ill., 65.189 mph
June 1: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 67.810 mph
June 10: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 69.125 mph
June 22 (June 8 makeup): Jared Schlipman, Mendon, Ill., 64.889 mph
June 22: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 61.221 mph
June 29: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 63.975 mph

Stock Cars

April 6: Jeff Mueller, New London, Iowa, 61.199 mph
APRIL 20: CHRIS WIBBELL, DALLAS CITY, IILL., 61.423 mph (RECORD)
April 27: John Oliver Jr., Danville, Iowa, 59.575 mph
May 4: John Oliver Jr., Danville, Iowa, 58.451 mph
May 18: Jeff Mueller, New London, Iowa, 60.571 mph
June 1: Chris Wibbell, Dallas City, Ill., 61.325 mph
June 8: Jeff Mueller, New London, Iowa, 59.352 mph
June 22: Doug Huls, Carthage, Ill., 57.243 mph
June 29: John Oliver Jr., Danville, Iowa, 61.207 mph

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 18: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.
June 1: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.
June 8: Dustin Griffin, Quincy, Ill.
June 10: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.
June 22: Kevin Tomlinson, New London, Mo.
June 29: Terry Neal, Ely, Iowa

Feature laps led (weekly Sunday night shows): Mark Burgtorf 62, Terry Neal 46, Kevin Tomlinson 34, Robby Warner 30, Jason Frankel 29.
Feature laps run (weekly Sunday night shows): Jason Perry 275, Robby Warner 268, Dustin Neese 265, Jerry Weisenberger 264, Justin reed 260, Mark Burgtorf 260.

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 18: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
June 1: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
June 10: Ken Schrader, Concord, Ill.
June 22 (June 8 makeup): Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
June 22: Robbie Reed, Quincy, Ill.
June 29: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.

Feature laps led (weekly Sunday night shows): Michael Long 125, Dave Wietholder 24, Jared Schlipman 23, Robbie Reed 20.
Feature laps run (weekly Sunday night shows): Michael Long 212, Steven DeLonjay 208, Dave Wietholder 191, Todd Reed 188, Shawn Deering 185.

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 18: Jake Wenig, Burlington, Iowa
June 1: Steve Steinkuhler, Camp Point, Ill.
June 8: Jeff Mueller, New London, Iowa
June 22: Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill.
June 29: John Oliver Jr., Danville, Iowa

Feature laps led (weekly Sunday night shows): Jeff Mueller 53, Dave Wietholder 28, John Oliver Jr. 26, Steve Steinkuhler 24.
Feature laps run (weekly Sunday night shows): Chris Wibbell 205, Marty Hull Jr. 202, John Oliver Jr. 187, Bruce Hatfield 178.

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 18: Aaron Brocksieck, Camp Point, Ill.
June 8: Travis Booher, Quincy, Ill.
June 10: Travis Booher, Quincy, Ill.
June 22: Wes Mayfield, Hull, Ill.
June 29: Aaron Brocksieck, Camp point, Ill.

Feature laps led (weekly Sunday night shows, plus June 10 points race): Travis Booher 41, Steve Carlin 33, Jim Powell 29, Aaron Brocksieck 23, Bobby Anders 22.
Feature laps run (weekly Sunday night shows, plus June 10 points race): Aaron Brocksieck 154, Steve Carlin 152, Jim Leffew 139, Wes Mayfield 136, Jim Powell 134.

CAR COUNTS

The averages

Modifieds: 24.6 (Season highs: 34, June 1; 33, April 20)
Late models: 22.0 (Season highs: 42, April 27; 27, June 29; 24, April 20.)
Stock cars: 14.2 (Season high: 16, June 1, April 20)
Hobby stocks: 14.2 (Season high: 17, June 8)

TOTAL CARS
Sunday night shows (only) average: 69.9
2007 average: 66.3

Weekly totals
April 6: 59
April 20: 84
April 27: 65
May 4: 81
May 18: 70
June 1: 95 (sprint cars, no hobby stocks)
June 8: 72
June 22: 73
June 29: 77

YELLOW FEVER

These are the average number of cautions per show:

Modifieds: 11.9
Hobby stocks: 4.9
Stock cars: 4.5
Late models: 4.2

2008 total cautions: 262
2007: 493
2006: 448

UMP SUMMER NATIONALS ROUNDUP

Friday, June 27, Lawrenceburg Speedway, Lawrenceburg, Ind.: 1. Dennis Erb Jr., 2. Randy Korte, 3. Steve Sheppard Jr., 4. Wayne Chinn, 5. Steve Casebolt, 6. Jeep Van Wormer, 7. Brian Shirley, 8. Scott James, 9. Brad Neat, 10. Wes Steidinger. Other notables: 12. Will Vaught, 17. Darren Miller. Points: 1. Dennis Erb Jr. 927, 2. Brian Shirley 909, 3. Wes Steidinger 772, 4. Jeep Van Wormer 769, 5. Will Vaught 761.

Thursday, June 26, Paducah International Raceway, Paducah, Ky.: 1. Kevin Claycomb, 2. Dennis Erb Jr., 3. Duke Whiseant, 4. Brian Shirley, 5. Jeff Walston, 6. Kevin Weaver, 7. Wes Steidinger, 8. John Tindal, 9. Dylan Thompson, 10. Jordan Bland. Other notables: 12. Jeep Van Wormer, 14. Darren Miller, 17. Randy Korte.

Wednesday, June 25, Lake Ozark Speedway, Eldon, Mo.: 1. Billy Moyer, 2. Dennis Erb Jr., 3. Darren Miller, 4. Brian Shirley, 5. Randy Korte, 6. Ryan Unzicker, 7. Wes Steidinger, 8. DENNY WOODWORTH, 9. J.D. Hubert, 10. Mike Hammerle. Other notables: 13. Don O’Neal, 17. MARK BURGTORF, 20. Jeep Van Wormer. Points: 1. Brian Shirley 750, 2. Dennis Erb Jr. 751, 3. Will Vaught 658, 4. Wes Steidinger 651, 5. Jeep Van Wormer 649.

Tuesday, June 24, State Fair Speedway, Sedalia, Mo.: 1. Brian Shirley, 2. Billy Moyer, 3. Don O’Neal, 4. Dennis Erb Jr., 5. Jeep Van Wormer, 6. Randy Korte, 7. Steve Sheppard Jr., 8. Darren Miller, 9. Jeremy Payne, 10. Wes Steidinger. Other notables: 11. Will Vaught, 19. Jason Feger.

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Quincy Raceways preview for June 29

Posted by seighinger – June 26, 2008

Starting with Sunday night’s $3,000-to-win Titan Wheel and Tire Shootout, here are my picks for the top 10 storylines to watch play out in the second half of the season:

1. There is only one veteran late model driver — Lonnie Bailey — who will have a chance to stop one of The New Breed from winning a track championship. (As of today, we will be referring to the likes of Jason Frankel, Justin Reed, Keith Pratt, Robby Warner & Co. by that moniker. I think there was an old cop show on ABC in the 1970s by that name.)

Lonnie’s hardly ancient at 43, but compared to those drivers he will be battling for the track championship he might as well apply for an AARP card. Bailey won the title in 2004 and is one of only eight drivers since Quincy Raceways opened in 1975 to win a a track championship, and one of just six since 1979.

2. Will the rain hold off on enough Sunday nights for Michael Long to make a run at 40 victories, a figure that would have once thought impossible to reach? Long has 18 wins, including seven features, with half the season remaining. Just imagine how many wins he could have at this point if there had been FIVE rainouts.

3. Who will be breakout stars of tomorrow in the second half? For example, last year we saw Jason Perry emerge in the late model division. Right now, my picks for the four classes would be Keith Pratt (I like his mental toughness) in late models, Steven DeLonjay (no-brainer) and Travis Griffith in the modifieds, Levi Long in the stocl cars and Bobby Anders in the hobby stocks.

4. Which drivers can toss aside a disappointing first half and rebound strongly? My picks right now are Kevin Tomlinson in late models, Robbie Reed (good health can do wonders) in modifieds, Andrew Griffin in stock cars and Bobby Anders in hobby stocks. Anders’ pick should come with an asterisk. He’s currently fourth in points, but would probably be leading if not for a handful of some bad-luck feature finishes earlier in the season. (I just noticed I picked Anders to be both the breakout and comeback driver alike in the second half. Bobby’s got his hands full.)

5. Steve Carlin’s pursuit of a third hobby stock title, which if won would make him one of only eight drivers to win three or more championships. Carlin missed a 2007 title by one point.

6. Will attendance at the track stay strong in the face of an already brutal economy and the added impact of the flood. My guess is yes. Quincy Raceways fans are a great bunch, not to mention dedicated.

7. Whether or not Mark Burgtorf can finish in the top 10 in late model points a 24th straight year, despite not running a full schedule at QR. My gut feeling is he will be able to do it — somehow. He’s currently 10 points out of 10th, despite finishing an uncharacteristic 13th and 12th the last two points features.

8. Which of the these talented — but so far luckless — drivers will be the first to end their lengthy winless streaks in features? Joe Bliven (72 races), Tony Dunker (60) or Justin Reed (50). All three consistently run up front, but simply haven’t been able to duck under the checkers first.

9. If Michael Long goes on to win a second straight modified title he will be just the third different driver to win back-to-back modified or "A" modified titles. The others were Hank DeLonjay and Sam Burgtorf, who are both retired. Drivers in the now-defunct "B" modified class to go back-to-back were Tony Dunker, and Lonnie Carter.

10. Who will follow Shannon Babb and Randy Korte as UMP Summer National winners at the track? My pick right now would be Brian Shirley.

———————-

Here’s a look at how last year’s Titan Wheel and Tire Shootour played out:

2007 TITAN WHEEL AND TIRE SHOOTOUT
Top 10 finishers

Late Models
1. Tom Darbyshire, Morning Sun, Iowa, $3,000
2. Terry Gallaher, New London, Mo., $1,750
3. Jeff Aikey, Cedar Falls, Iowa, $1,250
4. Justin Reed, Quincy, Ill., $750
5. Matt Strassheim, West Burlington, Iowa, $500
6. Darrel DeFrance, Marshalltown, Iowa, $400
7. Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., $400
8. Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill., $350
9. Denny Woodworth, Mendon, Ill., $300
10. Matt Bailey, Quincy, Ill., $300

Modifieds
1. Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., $500
2. Hank DeLonjay, Quincy, Ill., $350
3. Tony Dunker, Quincy, Ill., $275
4. Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., $200
5. Brandon Lennox, New London, Mo., $175
6. Robbie Reed, Quincy, Ill., $150
7. Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill., $125
8. David Holder, Clarence, Mo., $125
9. Rob Carter, Quincy, Ill., $115
10. Joe Bliven, Quincy, Ill., $115

Hobby Stock
1. Aaron Brocksieck, Camp Point, Ill.
2. Steve Carlin, Hannibal, Mo.
3. Todd Reichert, Quincy, Ill.
4. Michael Lay, Hannibal, Mo.
5. James Leffew, Quincy, Ill.
6. Jared Richie, Quincy, Ill.
7. Bobby Anders, Quincy, Ill.,
8. Bruce Hatfield, Quincy, Ill.
9. Travis Booher, Quincy, Ill.
10. Louis Goodwyn, Hull, Ill.

QUINCY RACEWAYS SUNDAY NIGHT GUIDE

Race time: 6:30 p.m.

Weather forecast: It’s supposed to be "mostly sunny," which I have come to learn in Quincy means "a chance of rain." Temperatures should be in low 60s for racing.

THE SKINNY

Late Models: Last Sunday’s super slick track turned the feature into a follow the leader event. The only real groove was down low. Hopefully, this week’s added moisture from all the rain will help allow for a heavier track, faster times and more side-by-side racing … Feature winner Kevin Tomlinson’s 65.446 mph quick time in the main event was one of the slower late model clockings of the season. Tomlinson was impressive, however, in his flag-to-flag drive to his first checkered flag of the season. He was able to hold his line and hold off hard-charging Terry Gallaher … There has been no back-to-back feature winners since Mark Burgtorf April 6, 20 … Seven different drivers have led 20 or more feature laps this season, the most of any series at the track … Late models are averaging 21.5 cars per show, but just 17.0 over the most recent three, including a season-low 14 on NASCAR Night June 10 … The season-best car count of 42 on April 30 (a Deery Brothers race) might be in jeopardy Sunday.

Most recent feature winner: Kevin Tomlinson, June 22 midseason championship.

Pick to click: Jason Frankel. He looks like he is ready to go on a roll.

Modifieds: The mods continue to pack the pits, averaging a track-high 24.8 cars per show and three times have reached 30 or better … Biggest surprise among last Sunday’s top cars in the feature had to be caution-prone Aura Griffith, who ran a strong sixth. Griffith entered the night 20th in points … Lookalikes: Todd Reed and Jon Bon Jovi … Mods have had 10 or more cautions seven straight Sunday nights … Michael Long has won seven of eight Sunday modified features, but eight different drivers have finished second … Tony Dunker has now earned more modified track points (5,772) than any other driver in the modern era (since 1998) of Quincy Raceways. Retired Hank DeLonjay (5,727) is second … Vance Wilson (2,977) will likely become the 14th driver to reach 3,000 points Sunday.

Most recent feature winner: Robbie Reed, June 22 midseason championship.

Pick to click: Michael Long. He’s due to end his "slump" of only one win in the last three QR features.

Stock Cars: Stock car might have the best argument for what series provides the most exciting finishes at the track. Five stock car features have been decided by under a second … If any class should crown separate first- and second-half champs this is it. It will be extremely interesting to see where Dave Wietholder and Steve Steinkuhler finish in second-half points. Jeff Mueller, John Oliver Jr and Chris Wibbell dominated much of the first half, but in recent weeks it has been Steinkuhler and Wietholder coming on strong … If Doug Huls can keep that No. 10 ride running, he could be another integral part of the second-half mix.

Most recent feature winner: Dave Wietholder, June 22 midseason championship.

Pick to click: Steve Steinkuhler.

Hobby Stocks: James Leffew’s DQ last week after winning the feature may wind up deciding who wins the track title. Leffew would have left the track in first place in points. Instead, he is seventh and barring some unforeseen development, is out of the title pursuit … Steve Carlin (16) and modified driver Michael Long (16) have earned the most heat-race points …The top six drivers in points are all from outside Quincy, led by Aaron Brocksieck (227) of Camp Point … Jim Powell (3,726) should move past Bruce Hatfield (3,744) Sunday night and into the No. 4 all-time position in track points. Powell returned to hobby stocks full time this season after dabbling in modifieds for a few summers. Hatfield left hobby stocks after 2007 and moved to stock cars..

Most recent feature winner: Wes Mayfield, June 22 midseason championship.

Pick to click: Steve Watkins. Call it a hunch.

QUINCY RACEWAYS LEADERS

Track Points

Late Models: Jason Frankel 208, Justin Reed 202, Lonnie Bailey 200, Robby Warner 200.
Modifieds: Michael Long 242, Tony Dunker 229, Steven DeLonjay 225, Dave Wietholder 212.
Stock Cars: Chris Wibbell 295, John Oliver Jr. 292, Jeff Mueller 274.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck 227, Steve Carlin 225, Wes Mayfield 224.

Feature Points

Late Models: Jason Frankel 201, Robby Warner 197, Justin Reed 195.
Modifieds: Michael Long 226, Tony Dunker 221, Steven DeLonjay 216.
Stock Cars: Chris Wibbell 295, John Oliver Jr. 292, Jeff Mueller 274.
Hobby Stocks: Wes Mayfield 218, Aaron Brocksieck 216, Steve Carlin 209.

Heat Points

Late Models: Lonnie Bailey 10, Matt Bailey 9, Dustin Griffin 9.
Modifieds: Michael Long 16, Wyatt Lantz 11, Tony Dunker 9, Steven DeLonjay 9.
Hobby Stocks: Steve Carlin 16, Aaron Brocksieck 11, Bobby Anderson 10.

Herald-Whig Performance Points

Late Models: Mark Burgtorf 86, Denny Woodworth 64, Jason Frankel 33.
Modifieds: Michael Long 109, Dave Wietholder 45, Tony Dunker 38.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. 50, Abe Huls 39, Jeff Mueller 36.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck 52, Travis Booher 50, James Leffew 49.

Money Earned (Points races only)

Late Models: Jason Frankel $2,100, Robby Warner 1,900, Keith Pratt 1,805.
Modifieds: Michael Long $2,230, Tony Dunker 1,445, Steven DeLonjay 1,255.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. $1,605, Jeff Mueller 1,525, Chris Wibbell 1,435.
Hobby Stocks: Travis Booher $590, Aaron Brocksieck 585, James Leffew 570.

Victories

Late Models

Total: Mark Burgtorf 11, Jason Frankel 5.
Feature: Mark Burgtorf 4, six with 1.
Heat: Mark Burgtorf 5, Jason Frankel 3, Lonnie Bailey 3.
Dash: Robby Warner 2, Mark Burgtorf 2.

Modifieds

Total: Michael Long 18, Steven DeLonjay 5.
Feature: Michael Long 7, Dave Wietholder 1, Robbie Reed 1.
Heat: Michael Long 7, three with 3.
Dash: Michael Long 4, Brandon Lennox 2.

Stock Cars

Total: Jeff Mueller 7, John Oliver Jr. 6.
Feature: Jeff Mueller 3, five with 1.
Heats: John Oliver Jr. 5, Jeff Mueller 4.

Hobby Stocks

Total: Aaron Brocksieck 6, Steve Carlin 5.
Feature: Aaron Brocksieck 2, Travis Booher 2
Heat: Aaron Brocksieck 4, Steve Carlin 4.

12 Comments – Feed

One-class modified system has worked out well

Posted by seighinger – June 25, 2008

I have to admit, I miss those crazy "B" modifieds. (And judging by the poll results at the right, so do some other people!)

There always seemed to be a lot of moaning about all of the cautions and delays the "B" mods were guilty of, but there was something special about one of their features. You knew ahead of time there was at least a 50-50 chance there would be a green-white-checkers ending because a "B" mod main event rarely could get done in the allotted time. I remember one that was called at four laps. Man, those were the days, eh?

And you also were guaranteed of at least a couple of quality pileups.

Love ‘em or hate ‘em, the "B" mods were never dull.

But I also have to admit, the one-class modified system began in 2006 has worked out well. We have a deep and talented pool of drivers that is arguably the finest in the region. West Burlington is real close in terms of parity, but I think the weekly regulars at Quincy deserve a slight edge.

While there could be a debate over which track has the most overall quality, there is no room for discussion about who the top modified driver in at least a three-state area is — he resides at 8000 Broadway and his name is Michael Long. If the Stevie Dirt Regional Rankings illustrate nothing else, it’s that Long is head and shoulders above all challengers in this area of the country.

Here’s a look at some numbers involving the single modified class at Quincy Raceways. Since 2006, these are the leaders in the key categories:

MODIFIED TRACK POINTS SINCE 2006
Through June 22, 2008

Tony Dunker, 1,527 points
Robbie Reed, 1,506
Dave Wietholder, 1,437
x-Hank DeLonjay, 1,387
Shawn Deering, 1,260
Jeff Waterman, 1,229
Brandon Lennox, 1,143
Rob Carter, 1,099
Joe Bliven, 1,093
xx-Michael Long, 973

x-retired after 2007 season
xx-did not race at Quincy in 2006

MODIFIED TOTAL VICTORIES SINCE 2006

Michael Long, 54
Hank DeLonjay, 43
Robbie Reed, 22
Tony Dunker, 20
Dave Wietholder, 19
Brandon Lennox, 18
Danny Lake, 9
Joe Bliven, 8
Wyatt Lantz, 7
Ted Allen, 7

MODIFIED FEATURE VICTORIES SINCE 2006

Michael Long, 23
Hank DeLonjay, 11
Dave Wietholder, 5
Josh Foster, 4
Brandon Lennox, 3
Robbie Reed, 3
Vance Wilson, 2
Joe Bliven, 1
Danny Lake, 1
Rob Carter, 1
Mark Burgtorf, 1
Ryan Meyer, 1
Ted Allen, 1

MODIFIED TOTAL HEAT VICTORIES SINCE 2006

Hank DeLonjay, 27
Michael Long, 20
Robbie Reed, 11
Dave Wietholder, 11
Brandon Lennox, 10
Joe Bliven, 7
Danny Lake, 6
Jared Schlipman, 6
Jeff Waterman, 5
Frankie Wellman, 4
Wyatt Lantz, 4
Ted Allen, 4

MODIFIED DASH VICTORIES SINCE 2006

Michael Long, 11
Robbie Reed, 8
Tony Dunker, 6
Hank DeLonjay, 5
Brandon Lennox, 5
Dave Wietholder, 3
Wyatt Lantz, 2
Vance Wilson, 2
Danny Lake, 2
Ted Allen, 2

LATE MODEL NATIONAL RANKINGS

latemodelracer.com

1. Billy Moyer
2. Jimmy Owens
3. Scott Bloomquist
4. Steve Francis
5. Shane Clanton
6. Josh "Kid Rocket" Richards
7. Tim McCreadie
8. Jimmy Mars
9. Shannon Bab
10. Earl Pearson Jr.

hoseheads.com

1. Billy Moyer
2. Jimmy Owens
3. Scott Bloomquist
4. Steve Francis
5. Josh "Kid Rocket" Richards
6. Shannon Babb
7. Tim McCreadie
8. Earl Pearson Jr.
9. Shane Clanton
10. Chris Madden

UMP SUMMER NATIONALS ROUNDUP

Tuesday, June 24, Sedalia State Fair Speedway, Sedalia, Mo: 1. Brian Shirley, 2. Billy Moyer, 3. Don O’Neal, 4. Dennis Erb Jr., 5. Jeep Van Wormer, 6. Randy Korte, 7. Steve Sheppard Jr., 8. Darren Miller, 9. Jeremy Payne, 10. Wes Steidinger. Other notables: 11. Will Vaught, 12. Terry English, 19. Jason Feger.

Summer Nationals Points Leaders

1. Brian Shirley, Chatham, Ill., 698 points
2. Dennis Erb Jr., Carpentersville, Ill., 669
3. Will Vaught, Crane, Mo., 614
4. Jeep Van Wormer, Pinconning, Mich., 606
5. Wes Steidinger, Fairbury, Ill., 591
6. Randy Korte, Highland, Ill., 525
7. Jason Feger, Bloomington, Ill., 511
8. Steve Sheppard Jr., New Berlin, Ill., 500
9. Dewayne Kiefer, Ste. Genevieve, Mo., 402
10. Darren Miller, Milledgeville, Ill., 401

ADVICE IS NICE
From "Trouble in Turn 3," www.geoffreystephens.com

It’s Thursday and I have some advice to hand out:

NASCAR Truck Series: I would say "sayonara" to the pickups and "hello" to a NASCAR dirt series as the new third level circuit.

Tony Stewart: www.apa.org/topics/controlanger.html

Mark Martin: Tell Arlene you wanna go full-time. That elusive championship could be just around the corner.

Joe Gibbs: Explain to everyone why Joey Logano isn’t competing in the next three Nationwide events.

Scott
Speed: You should probably stop being timid when people ask if you are
ready to move to Cup. "I’m not really ready" is not the right answer.

Clint
Bowyer, David Reutimann, Carl Edwards, David Ragan, etc.: I don’t go
back to high school and hang out, so stop robbing the Nationwide Series
of new winners and limiting the efforts of teams who run that specific
circuit.

NASCAR MULTISERIES POINTS STANDINGS
After Sonoma

1. Kyle Busch (5706)
2. Carl Edwards (4451)
3. Clint Bowyer (4430)
4. David Ragan (4046)
5. David Reutimann (3706)
6. Kevin Harvick (3384)
7. Denny Hamlin (3273)
8. Jeff Burton (3215)
9. Greg Biffle (3124)
10. Dale Earnhardt, Jr. (3106)

18 Comments – Feed

Lineup should be loaded for Sunday shootout

Posted by seighinger – June 24, 2008

There’s a chance the late model lineup Sunday night for the Titan Wheel and Tire Shootout could be stronger overall than the July 8 United Midwestern Promoters (UMP) Summer Nationals. At worst, it should be comparable.

Sunday’s annual $3,000 to win event will attract the best the IMCA offers in the Tri-State area. Look for plenty of the Deery Brothers Summer Series tour cars, plus some travelers. All drivers registered with the IMCA have been contacted.

The only larger IMCA purse is the $10,000-to-win Pepsi USA Nationals later this season.

The feature will be 50 laps with a draw/redraw format. This is the third year for the $3,000 first-place paycheck.

There will be plenty of other prize money on the line, too. The modifieds will be vying for $500 to win, stock cars $400 and hobby stocks $250.

This race is normally on the July 4 weekend, but has been moved up a week this year.

RECENT TITAN WHEEL AND TIRE LATE MODEL SHOOTOUT WINNERS

2007: Tom Darbyshire, Morning Sun, Iowa ($3,000)
2006: Jeff Aikey, Cedar Falls, Iowa ($3,000)
2005: Terry Neal, Ely, Iowa
2004: Jamie Wilson, Quincy, Ill.
2003: Terry Gallaher, Hannibal, Mo.
2002: Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill.
2001: Rained out
2000: Jeff Aikey, Cedar Falls, Iowa
1999: Curt Martin, Independence, Iowa
1998: Tommy Elston, Keokuk, Iowa

Support Series

Modifieds

2007: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
2006: Danny Lake, New London, Mo.

Hobby Stocks

2007: Aaron Brocksieck, Camp Point, Ill.
2006: Steve Carlin, Hannibal, Mo.
2005: Eddie Dieker, Plainville, Ill.
2004: Eddie Dieker, Plainville, Ill.
2003: Jim Powell, Hannibal, Mo.
2002: Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill.
2001: Rained out
2000: Bill Genenbacher, Camp Point, Ill.
1999: Jason Fleer, Quincy, Ill.
1998: Jim Gillenwater, Keokuk, Iowa

DRIVER DOMINANCE INDEX

Simply divide the number of points a driver has earned by the
maximum number available. This little statistical toy shows much specific drivers dominate their divisions, in addition to the raw points standings.

Lumping all the drivers together might not be fair, but it illustrates how much some divisions are thoroughly dominated by one or two drivers and what series are more wide open. Obviously, Long (and Tony Dunker is not far behind) stands tall in the modifieds. Notice there is only late model driver listed? That shows how tight the late model title race is.

Long’s near-perfect score took a hit Sunday night when his front end broke late in the feature. Now, we have a race, with several drivers now within striking distance of the top percentage.

Stock cars are not eligible to be listed since that series’ heat races do not award points.

Here’s a look at the top overall drivers following June 22 races:

Michael Long, modifieds, 242 of 258, .938
Tony Dunker, modifieds, 229 of 258, .888
Aaron Brocksieck, hobby stocks, 227 pf 258, .880
Steve Carlin, hobby stocks, 225 of 258, .872
Steven DeLonjay, modifieds, 225 of 258, .872
Wes Mayfield, hobby stocks, 224 of 258, .868
Dave Wietholder, modifieds, 212 of 258, .822
Jason Frankel, late models, 208 of 258, .806
Bobby Anders, hobby stocks, 207 of 258, .802

DEPENDABLE DRIVERS

Looking at the top percentage of feature laps runs shows one extremely important item — which driver(s) can be counted on week in, week out to be there at the checkers. Remember the old axiom "to finish first, first you have to finish."

I find it interesting that only driver, Chris Wibbell in stock cars, has run all possible feature laps. Michael Long in modifieds fell from that accomplishment Sunday night when he bowed out four laps from the end with mechanical issues.

Here are the leaders through June 22

Chris Wibbell, stock cars, 185 of 185, 1.000
Jason Perry, late models, 235 of 240, .9792
Michael Long, modifieds, 187 of 191, .9791
Marty Hull Jr., stock cars, 182 of 185, .984
Steven DeLonjay, modifieds, 185 of 191, .969
Aaron Brocksieck, hobby stocks, 124 of 142, .944
Steve Carlin, hobby stocks, 132 of 142, .930
Ron Elbe, late models, 220 of 240, 917

RUNNER-UP OR JUST THE FIRST LOSER?

Stock car driver John Oliver Jr.’s middle name should be "Almost." No driver at Quincy Raceways has "almost" won as many features as Oliver. He has finished second four times this season. Here’s a look at the runner-up in each series:

Late models: Jason Frankel 1, Terry Gallaher 1, Denny Woodworth 1, Justin Reed 1, Matt Bailey 1, Keith Pratt 1, Kevin Tomlinson 1, Joey Gower 1.

Modifieds: Todd Reed 1, Robbie Reed 1, Tony Dunker 1, Brandon Lennox 1, Steve Arpin 1, Michael Long 1, Joe Bliven 1, Wyatt Lantz.

Stock cars: John Oliver 4, Doug Huls 2, Steve Steinkuhler 1, Abe Huls 1.

Hobby stocks: James Leffew 3, Steve Watkins Jr,. 1, Steve Carlin 1, Wes Mayfield 1, Aaron Brocksieck 1, Bobby Anders 1.

CLOSE CALLS

The closest feature finishes through June 22 (note how many are stock car main events):

1, Jake Wenig, stock cars, 0.096 of a second over John Oliver Jr., May 18
2. Keith Pratt, late models, 0.252 of a second over Justin Reed, May 4.
3. Steve Steinkuhler, stock cars, 0.344 of a second over John Oliver Jr., June 1
4. Travis Booher, hobby stocks, 0.366 of a second over James Leffew, June 8
5. Dave Wietholder, stock cars, 0.387 of a second over Doug Huls, June 22
6. Aaron Brocksieck, hobby stocks, 0.366 of a second over James Leffew, April 27
7. Chris Wibbell, stock cars, 0.434 of a second over Doug Huls, April 20
8. Michael Long, modifieds, 0.452 of a second over Steve Arpin, May 4
9. Dustin Griffin, late models, 0.540 of a second over Jason Frankel, June 8
10. Jeff Mueller, stock cars, 0.549 of a second over John Oliver Jr.

UMP SUMMER NATIONALS ROUNDUP

Sunday, June 22, Vermillion County Speedway, Danville, Ill.: 1. Jeep Van Wormer, 2. Brian Shirley, 3. Will Vaught, 4. Dennis Erb Jr., 5. Scott Bull, 6. Randy Korte, 7. Kevin Claycomb, 8. Terry Casey, 9. Ryan Dauber, 10. Wes Steidinger. Other notables: 12. Steve Sheppard Jr., 14. Jason Feger. Points: 1. Brian Shirley 616, 2. Dennis Erb Jr. 602, 3. Will Vaught 567, 4. Jeep Van Wormer 544, 5. Wes Steidinger 542.

2 Comments – Feed

The Monday after the midseason championships …

Posted by seighinger – June 23, 2008

Before we get to this week’s Stevie Dirt Regional Rankings, let’s tie up the loose ends from Sunday night at 8000 Broadway:

The modifieds continue to bring cars through the pit gate, and they continue to crash ‘em. The mods’ car count is a track-best 24.8. Three times this season there have been 30 or more on hand.

On the other hand, eight times in the last nine shows the modifieds have reached double digits in cautions. Their 11.7 average is 20 percent higher than a year ago. Yikes.

Heat winners:

Late models: Nick Ingalls, Jason Fankel, Dustin Griffin.
Modifieds: Brandon Lennox, Michael Long, Tony Dunker.
Hobby stocks: Bobby Anders, Jim Powell.

Trophy dashes

Late models: Robby Warner.
Modifieds: Dave Wietholder.

Wietholder’s midseason championship victory in the stock cars gives him one of those in two different classes. Seven years ago he was the hobby stock midseason winner. Back then, the class was called bombers.

We’ll have more about this as the week progresses, but next Sunday is must viewing for all late model fans. There could 50 (or more) in the pits with the $3,000-to-win Titan Wheel and Tire Shootout on tap. A track official said e-mails and letters have been sent to every licensed IMCA late model driver in the region.

Transponders are no longer being used on hobby stocks, which is a shame if for no other reason it does not allow us to track fast times, etc. There’s a note about this farther down in the blog.

Of the midseason championship race winners only one probably has a realistic shot at a track "triple crown" — winning the midseason and season title races, plus the points championship. That would be Wes Mayfield in hobby stocks, who is just three points out of first place in the points race. Sunday night’s other winners — Kevin Tomlinson in late models, Robbie Reed in modifieds and Wietholder in stock cars — are likely too far behind in points to seriously challenge.

For those wondering why James Leffew was disqualified after winning the hobby stock feature (and Mayfield declared the winner), track officials said they found spacers under the rear springs. I’ll be honest, I have no idea what that even means, but it’s a no-no they said.

STEVIE DIRT REGIONAL RANKINGS

The following late model and modified rankings reflect action through June 22.

LATE MODELS
Previous rankings in parentheses

1. (1.) Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 230 points
2-tie. (2.) Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., 153
2-tie. (3.) Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 153
4. (4.) Denny Woodworth, Mendon, Ill., 128
5. (5.) Justin Reed, Quincy, Ill., 108
6. (6.) Keith Pratt, Quincy, Ill., 103
7. (8.) Matt Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 91
8. (7.) Tom Darbyshire, Morning Sun, Iowa, 78
9. (14.) Tom Goble, Burlington, Iowa, 69
10. (9.) Boone McLaughlin, Mediapolis, Iowa, 66

11. (10.) Jay Johnson, West Burlington, Iowa, 62
12-tie. (11.) Robby Warner, Quincy, Ill., 61
12-tie. (17-tie.) Terry Gallaher, New London, Mo., 61
14. (12.) Dustin Griffin, Quincy, Ill., 57
15. (13.) Jason Perry, Payson, Ill., 50
16-tie. (NR) Kevin Tomlinson, New London, Mo., 48
16-tie. (15-tie) Joey Gower, Quincy, Ill., 48
16-tie. (15-tie) Tom Bowling, Danville, Iowa, 48
19-tie. (17-tie) Dustin Neese, Nebo, Ill., 41
19-tie. (17-tie) Matt Ryan, Davenport, Iowa, 41
19-tie. (NR) Sam Halstead, New London, Iowa, 41

On the bubble: Matt Strassheim, West Burlinton, Iowa, 34; Bill Genenbacher, Camp Point, Ill., 29; Andy Nezworski, Buffalom Iowa, 29; Colby Springsteen, Morning Sun, Iowa, 25, Cory Richards, Burlington, Iowa, 24.

Note: Rankings based on performances at Quincy
Raceways, 34 Raceway, Lee County Speedway. Points awarded on
25-20-15-12-10-8-6-4-2-1 scale for feature placements.

Previous No. 1 Weekly Rankings
Week 6: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.
Week 5: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.
Week 4: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.
Week 3: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.
Week 2: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.
Week 1: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.

Late Model Regional Recap

34 Raceway, West Burlington, Iowa: Jason Frankel continued to be the dominant drive at this track while also protecting his No. 1 regional ranking. Frankel led another strong Quincy showing when he won the feature ahead of Tom Goble, Lonnie Bailey, Gary Russell and Sam Halstead. Joining Frankel and Lonnie Bailey were fellow Quincy regulars Keith Pratt (seventh) and Matt Bailey (eighth) with top-10 showings.

34 Raceway Late Model Points
West Burlington, Iowa
1. Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 269 poimts
2. Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 261
3. Tom Goble, Burlington, Iowa, 248
4. Tom Bowling, Danville, Iowa, 236
5. Matt Ryan, Davenport, Iowa, 230
6. Keith Pratt, Quincy, Ill., 223

Lee County Speedway, Donnellson Iowa: Late models not scheduled.

Scotland County Speedway, Memphis, Mo.: No races scheduled.

MODIFIEDS
Previous rankings in parentheses

1. (1.) Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 265 points
2. (4.) Tyler Cale, Donnellson, Iowa, 217
3. (2.) Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa, 182
4. (3.) Dean McGee, Galesburg, Ill., 177
5. (5.) Brandon Lennox, New London, Mo., 165
6. (7.) Josh Foster, Montrose, Iowa, 140
7. (6.) David Holder, Clarence, Mo., 139
8. (8.) Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill., 134
9. (11.) Tony Dunker, Quincy, Ill., 104
10. (10.) Tony Fraise, Donnellson, Iowa, 95

11. (9.) Steven DeLonjay, Quincy, Ill., 92
12-tie. (12.) Wyatt Lantz, Augusta, Ill., 74
12-tie. (NR) Robbie Reed, Quincy, Ill., 74
14. (13.) Scotty Roberts, Columbia, Mo., 73
15. (13.) Andy Krieger, Burlington, Iowa, 72
16. (15.) Mike Weikert Jr., Burlington, Iowa, 66
17. (17.) Jeff Waterman, Quincy, Ill., 61
18. (14.) Darin Thye, Burlington, 59
19. (18-tie.) Charis Larson, Keokuk, Iowa, 56
20. (NR) Kevin Cale, Donnellson, Iowa, 55

On the bubble: Vance Wilson, Curryville, Mo., 54; Brad Carson, Colchester, Ill., 50; Scott Hogan, Vinton, Iowa, 50; Dennis Laveine, Burlington, Iowa, 48; Brandon Savage, Keokuk, Iowa, 45.

Previous No. 1 Weekly Rankings
Week 5: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
Week 4: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
Week 3: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
Week 2: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
Week 1: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.

Modified Regional Recap

24 Raceway, Moberly, Mo.: David Holder remained the man to beat with another main event victory, finishing ahead of Scotty Roberts, Kelly Smith, Brandon Lennox and Matt Dotson.

24 Raceway Modified Points
Moberly, Mo.

1. David Holder, Clarence, Mo., 284 points
2. Brandon Lennox, New London, Mo., 276
3. Scotty Roberts, Columbia, Mo., 234
4. Kelly Smith, Kirksville, Mo., 190
5. Kevin Blackburn, Fulton, Mo., 168

34 Raceway, West Burlington, Iowa: Tyler Cale continued his recent hot streak with a feature victory while climbing to No. 2 in the SDRR regional rankings. Kevin Cale, Lonnie Heap, Bill Roberts and Dennis Laveine counded out the top five.

34 Raceway Modified Points
West Burlington, Iowa

1. Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa, 244 points
2. Tyler Cale, Donnellson, Iowa, 240
3. Andy Krieger, Burlington, Iowa, 227
4. Dean McGee, Galesburg, Ill., 222
5. Dennis Laveine, Burlington, Iowa, 216

Lee County Speedway, Donnellson, Iowa (June 20): Dean McGee continued his strong midseason run with a victory over over Tyler Cale, Kevin Cale and Brandon Savage. The top six drivers are now separated by just six points.

Lee County Speedway, Donnellson, Iowa (June 18): Tyler Cale outlasted Josh Foster and Bill Roberts.

Lee County Speedway Modified Points
Donnellson, Iowa
1. Dean McGee, Galesburg, Ill., 226
2. Tyler Cale, Donnellson, Iowa, 224
3. Josh Foster, Montrose, Iowa, 221
4. Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa, 220
5. Mike Weikert Jr., Muscatine, Iowa, 213

Scotland County Speedway, Memphis, Mo. (June 21): No races scheduled.

Scotland County Speedway, Memphis, Mo. (June 17): Tony Fraise claimed the checkers in front of Dave Wietholder and Lynn Monroe.

Scotland County Speedway Modified Points
Memphis, Mo.

1. Tony Fraise, Donnellson, Iowa, 295
2. Mike Bennett, Des Moines, Iowa, 258
3. Ryan Meyer, Liberty, Ill., 248
4. Jody Wood, Kahoka, Mo., 243
5. Jeff Waterman, Quincy, Ill., 236

QUINCY RACEWAYS LEADERS

Track Points

Feature Points

Heat Points

Herald-Whig Performance Points

Money Earned (Points races only)

Victories

Late Models

Total: Mark Burgtorf 11, Jason Frankel 5.
Feature: Mark Burgtorf 4, six with 1.
Heat: Mark Burgtorf 5, Jason Frankel 3, Lonnie Bailey 3.
Dash: Robby Warner 2, Mark Burgtorf 2.

Modifieds

Total: Michael Long 18, Steven DeLonjay 5.
Feature: Michael Long 7, Dave Wietholder 1, Robbie Reed 1.
Heat: Michael Long 7, three with 3.
Dash: Michael Long 4, Brandon Lennox 2.

Stock Cars

Total: Jeff Mueller 7, John Oliver Jr. 6.
Feature: Jeff Mueller 3, five with 1.
Heats: John Oliver Jr. 5, Jeff Mueller 4.

Hobby Stocks

Total: Aaron Brocksieck 6, Steve Carlin 5.
Feature: Aaron Brocksieck 2, Travis Booher 2
Heat: Aaron Brocksieck 4, Steve Carlin 4.

RECENT MIDSEASON CHAMPIONSHIP RACE WINNERS

Late Models

2008: Kevin Tomlinson
2007: Terry Gallaher
2006: Mark Burgtorf
2005: Mark Burgtorf
2004: Mark Burgtorf
2003: Mark Burgtorf
2002: Mark Burgtorf
2001: Terry Schlipman
2000: Thad Trump
1999: Terry Gallaher
1998: Tommy Elston

Modifieds

2008: Robbie Reed
2007: Michael Long
2006: Hank DeLonjay

"A"Modifieds

2005: Hank DeLonjay
2004: Mark Burgtorf
2003: Ryan Meyer
2002: Vance Wilson
2001: Denny Woodworth
2000: Mark Burgtorf
1999: Mike Karhoff
1998: Sam Burgtorf

"B" Modifieds

2005: Wyatt Lantz
2004: Tony Dunker
2003: Marty Hull Sr.
2002: Joe Bliven
2001: Kelly Bartz
2000: Joe Bliven
1999: Greg Uppinghouse
1998: Bob Dale

Hobby Stocks

2008: Wes Mayfield
2007: Steve Carlin
2006: Steve Carlin
2005: Eddie Dieker
2004: Eddie Dieker
2003: Brent Chapman
2002: Bill Genenbacher
2001: Dave Wietholder
2000: Michael Larsen
1999: Eddie Dieker
1998: Jim Gillenwater

Stock Cars

2008: Dave Wietholder

FASTEST LAPS

Features only

The following lists now include fastest laps for all features.
Previous listings had only included those for points races and/or
Sunday nights. I felt this would be a truer representation:

Late Models

Stock Cars

Hobby Stocks

(Transponders are no longer used for hobby stock races, which means no electronic timing is available. Unless transponders are re-installed, we’ll be retiring this hobby stock feature.)

APRIL 6: STEVE CARLIN, HANNIBAL, MO., 60.079 mph (RECORD)
April 20: Jim Powell, Hannibal, Mo., 59.907
April 27: Steve Carlin, Hannibal, Mo., 57.404
May 4: Bobby Anders, Quincy, Ill., 57.397 mph
May 18: Aaron Brocksieck, Camp Point, Ill., 57.913 mph
June 8: Travis Booher, Quincy, Ill., 56.841 mph
June 10: Wes Mayfield, Hull, Ill., 59.254 mph

FEATURE WINNERS

Late models

Feature laps led (weekly Sunday night shows): Mark Burgtorf 62, Kevin Tomlinson 34, Robby Warner 30.
Feature laps run (weekly Sunday night shows): Jason Perry 235, Ron Ekbe 220, Robby Warner 218.

Modifieds

Feature laps led (weekly Sunday night shows): Michael Long 103, Dave Wietholder 24, Jared Schlipman 20, Robbie Reed 20.
Feature laps run (weekly Sunday night shows): Michael Long 187, Steven DeLonjay 183, Dave Wietholder 166.

Stock Cars

Feature laps led (weekly Sunday night shows): Jeff Mueller 53, Dave Wietholder 28, Steve Steinkuhler 24.
Feature laps run (weekly Sunday night shows): Chris Wibbell 185, Marty Hull Jr. 182, John Oliver Jr. 167.

Hobby Stocks

Feature laps led (weekly Sunday night shows, plus June 10 points race): Travis Booher 41, Steve Carlin 33, Bobby Anders 22.
Feature laps run (weekly Sunday night shows, plus June 10 points race): AaronBrocksieck 134, Steve Carlin 132, Bobby Anderson 123.

CAR COUNTS

The averages

Modifieds: 24.8 (Season highs: 34, June 1; 33, April 20)
Late models: 21.5 (Season highs: 42, April 27; 24, April 20.)
Stock cars: 14.4 (Season high: 16, June 1, April 20)
Hobby stocks: 14.1 (Season high: 17, June 8)

TOTAL CARS
Sunday night shows (only) average: 69.2
2007 average: 66.3

Weekly totals
April 6: 59
April 20: 84
April 27: 65
May 4: 81
May 18: 70
June 1: 95 (sprint cars, no hobby stocks)
June 8: 72
June 22: 73

YELLOW FEVER

These are the average number of cautions per show:

Modifieds: 11.7
Hobby stocks: 5.3
Stock cars: 4.6
Late models: 3.7

2008 total cautions: 233
2007: 493
2006: 448

UMP SUMMER NATIONALS ROUNDUP

Sunday, June 22, Vermillion County Speedway, Danville, Ill.: Jeep Van Wormer won the main event, but full results are not yet available. Don’t worry, we’ll track ‘em down.

Saturday, June 21, I-55 Raceway, Pevely, Mo.: Postponed due to flood.

Friday, June 20, Farmer City Raceway, Farmer City, Ill.: 1. Darren "The Thriller" Miller, 2. Jimmy Mars, 3. Brian Shirley, 4. Billy Moyer, 5. Brian Birkhofer, 6. Randy Korte, 7. Wes Steidinger, 8. Scott Bull, 9. Dennis Erb Kr., 10. Jeep Van Wormer.

Thursday, June 19, 1-57/1-64 Raceway, Mount Vernon, Ill.: 1. Darren "The Thriller" Miller, 2. Dennis Erb Jr., 3. Randy Korte, 4. Kevin Claycomb, 5. Rodney Melvin, 6. Jason Feger, 7. Kevin Cole, 8. Steve Sheppard Jr., 9. Wes Steidinger, 10. Terry English. Other notables: 11. Brian Shirley, 19. Mike Hammerle. 21. Jeep Van Wormer. Points: Dennis Erb Jr. 458, 2. Brian Shirley 441, 3. Will Vaught 429, 4. Wes Steidinger 412. 5. Jeep Van Wormer 387.

Schedule

Tuesday: Sedalia State Fair Speedway, Sedalia, Mo.:
Wednesday: Lake Ozark Speedway, Eldon, Ill.
Thursday: Paducah International Raceway, Paducah, Ky.

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How about added incentive for midseason title races?

Posted by seighinger – June 20, 2008

This is midseason championship week at Quincy Raceways, which means a nice big trophy and bragging rights. Oh, and a nice paycheck, too.

But what if there were some added incentive on the line, too? An idea I’d like to float — which will have absolutely no chance of flying, but … — would spice matters up come feature time. My concept would involve not only proclaiming the winner of the main event midseason champ, but awarding him some extra track points. We look at these kind of races as "special," correct? So let’s really make ‘em special.

What if the top five finishers received additional points on, say, a 10-5-3-2-1 scale? Actually, pick any kind of scale you might like (or the amount of drivers receiving the points), but honestly, wouldn’t something along those lines ramp things up even more?

If you like this idea, or have one of your own, leave a comment. You’re probably smarter than I am, so I’m anxious to hear what you think might be feasible.

QUINCY RACEWAYS SUNDAY NIGHT GUIDE

Race time: 6:30 p.m.

Weather forecast: Mostly sunny with evening temperatures in the 60s. We’re due for a dry Sunday.

THE SKINNY

Late Models: We might be seeing the tightest late model points race in track history taking shape. Six drivers are within six points of the top, and only 14 points separate the first 10. That is borderline amazing at this point … The race within the race continues to be to watch 14-time track champ Mark Burgtorf’s position in the points. Can he eventually secure a spot in the top 10 for a record 24th straight year? That will obviously be determined by how much he decides to race in Quincy the second half of the season. He’s currently 13th in points, 10 points away from 10th … I met Mark’s car owner, Todd Nelson, for the first time after the recent NASCAR Night festivities. Great guy.

Most recent feature winner: Mark Burgtorf, June 10.

Pick to click: Jason Frankel.

Modifieds: Don’t forget about the extra modified feature Sunday night. It will be the makeup of the June 8 rainout. Hopefully, Michael Long’s car will be the correct height. Sorry, bad joke there, but I couldn’t resist. I’m just guessing, but I predict Michael will not be exchanging Christmas cards with the tech people at Moberly …Also don’t forget two-time track champ Tony Dunker needs just 36 track points tonight to pass retired Hank
DeLonjay as the top points earner in the IMCA era (since 1998) when the
current method of scoring was adopted. A sixth-place finish or better in the first feature will do the trick for Dunker … Dark horses who might be good bets to win at least one of the two features: Wyatt Lantz and Brandon Lennox, who may have to come from deep in the field because of their point positions (8th and 9th, respectively).

Most recent feature winner: Ken Schrader, June 10.

Pick to click: Michael Long (twice).

Stock Cars: The top three drivers in points — John Oliver Jr., Chris Wibbell and Jeff Mueller — are from flood-ravaged areas, so it is questionable whether they will be able to make it Sunday. Hopefully their families, homes and cars are all safe and we’ll see them on the track … Mueller and Oliver are both in the top three in points in at Lee County Speedway and 34 Raceway … Like last year, we’ll be tracking second-half points after this week, so it will be interesting to see how drivers such as Steve Steinkuhler, Levi Long, Marty Hull Jr. and Dave Wietholder fare in those standings.

Most recent feature winner: Jeff Mueller, June 8.

Pick to click: Jeff Mueller.

Hobby Stocks: Travis Booher, seeking his third straight feature victory, will put his streak of leading 31 consecutive
feature laps on the line. Booher’s two feature victories give him five in his career. He’s one of only nine hobby stockers to win five or more in the last 10 years. Retired Eddie Dieker (39), Steve Carlin (26) and Adam Birck (24) are the leaders in that period. Birck is in his second year of driving a modified … Carlin is gunning for his third straight midseason championship. No other active driver has won a midseason title … Carlin may be the man to watch in the second half of the season. He was the top points earner in the second half of 2007 …

Most recent feature winner: Travis Booher, June 10.

Pick to click: Steve Carlin.

QUINCY RACEWAYS LEADERS

Track Points

Late Models: Justin Reed 172, Dustin Neese 171,
Jason Frankel 170, Lonnie Bailey 169, Jason Perry 168, Robby Warner
162, Keith Pratt 162, Joey Gower 160, Ron Elbe 159, Bill Genenbacher
158.
Modifieds: Michael Long 173, Steven DeLonjay 156, Tony Dunker 149, Dave Wietholder 139.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. 260, Chris Wibbell 258, Jeff Mueller 245.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck 193, James Leffew 190, Steve Carlin 189, Wes Mayfield 184.

Feature Points

Late Models: Jason Frankel 166, Justin Reed 165, Robby Warner 165, Dustin Neese 164.
Modifieds: Michael Long 160, Steven DeLonjay 148, Tony Dunker 143, Dave Wietholder 136.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. 260, Chris Wibbell 258, Jeff Mueller 245.
Hobby Stocks: James Leffew 184, Aaron Brocksieck 183, Wes Mayfield 178.

Heat Points

Late Models: Lonnie Bailey 10, Matt Bailey, four with 7.
Modifieds: Michael Long 13, Wyatt Lantz 11, Steven DeLonjay 8.
Hobby Stocks: Steve Carlin 14, Aaron Brocksieck 10, Correi Eifert 7, Bobby Anders 7.

Herald-Whig Performance Points

Late Models: Mark Burgtorf 85, Denny Woodworth 64, Robby Warner 26, Keith Pratt 23, Jason Frankel 22.
Modifieds: Michael Long 96, Brandon Lennox 32, Dave Wietholder 30.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. 47, Jeff Mueller 36, Abe Huls 21.
Hobby Stocks: Aaron Brocksieck 47, James Leffew 47, Travis Booher 35, Steve Carlin 33.

Money Earned (Points races only)

Late Models: Jason Frankel, $1,785, Robby Warner 1,675, Mark Burgtorf 1,645, Keith Pratt 1,560.
Modifieds: Michael Long $1,695, Steven DeLonjay 880, Tony Dunker 870.
Stock Cars: John Oliver Jr. $1,505, Jeff Mueller 1,440, Chris Wibbell 1,260.
Hobby Stocks: James Leffew $575, Aaron Brocksieck 525, Travis Booher 510.

Victories

Late Models

Total: Mark Burgtorf 11, Jason Frankel 4, Lonnie Bailey 4, Denny Woodworth 4.
Feature: Mark Burgtorf 4, five with 1.
Heat: Mark Burgtorf 5, Lonnie Bailey 3.
Dash: Mark Burgtorf 2.

Modifieds

Total: Michael Long 16, Steven DeLonjay 5.
Feature: Michael Long 6, Dave Wietholder 1.
Heat: Michael Long 6, three with 3.
Dash: Michael Long 4, Brandon Lennox 2.

Stock Cars

Total: Jeff Mueller 7, John Oliver Jr., 6.
Feature: Jeff Mueller 3, four with 1.
Heats: John Oliver Jr., 5, Jeff Mueller 4.

Hobby Stocks

Total: Aaron Brocksieck 6, Steve Carlin 5.
Feature: Aaron Brocksieck 2, Travis Booher 2.
Heat: Aaron Brocksieck 4, Steve Carlin 4, Corrie Eifert 2.

CAR COUNTS

The averages

Modifieds: 24.8 (Season highs: 34, June 1; 33, April 20)
Late models: 21.9 (Season highs: 42, April 27; 24, April 20.)
Stock cars: 14.4 (Season high: 16, June 1, April 20)
Hobby stocks: 13.9 (Season high: 17, June 8)

TOTAL CARS
Sunday night shows (only) average: 75.14
2007 average: 66.3

Weekly totals
April 6: 59
April 20: 84
April 27: 65
May 4: 81
May 18: 70
June 1: 95 (sprint cars, no hobby stocks)
June 8: 72

STEVIE DIRT REGIONAL RANKINGS

The following late model and modified rankings reflect action through June 15.

LATE MODELS
Previous rankings in parentheses

1. (1.) Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 197 points
2. (2.) Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill., 153
3. (4.) Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 137
4. (3.) Denny Woodworth, Mendon, Ill., 128
5. (5.) Justin Reed, Quincy, Ill., 108
6. (6.) Keith Pratt, Quincy, Ill., 91
7. (7-tie.) Tom Darbyshire, Morning Sun, Iowa, 77
8. (7-tie.) Matt Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 75
9. (9.) Boone McLaughlin, Mediapolis, Iowa, 66
10. (13-tie.) Jay Johnson, West Burlington, Iowa, 60

Note: Rankings based on performances at Quincy
Raceways, 34 Raceway, Lee County Speedway. Points awarded on
25-20-15-12-10-8-6-4-2-1 scale for feature placements.

MODIFIEDS
Previous rankings in parentheses

1. (1.) Michael Long, Quincy, Ill., 240 points
2. (2.) Bill Roberts, Burlington, Iowa, 149
3. (3.) Dean McGee, Galesburg, Ill., 148
4. (5.) Tyler Cale, Donnellson, Iowa, 147
5. (4.) Brandon Lennox, New London, Mo., 141.
6. (7.) David Holder, Clarence, Mo., 114
7. (6.) Josh Foster, Montrose, Iowa, 112
8. (8.) Dave Wietholder, Liberty, Ill., 81
9. (12.) Steven DeLonjay, Quincy, Ill., 77
10. (9.) Tony Fraise, Donnellson, Iowa, 70

BOUNTY AT LEE COUNTY

Our buddy Jake "The Snake" Croxton tells us the midseason championships Friday night at Lee County Speedway in Donnellson, Iowa, will have an interesting twist.

There will be a $400 carryover bounty on hobby stock ace Dean Kratzer, meaning the hobby stock competitors will vie for a $625 winner’s share if they stop Kratzer’s drive for six feature wins in a row. Kratzer must finish the race for the bounty to be collected, according to track officials.

The modifieds are another division to watch. Croxton reports they are having one of the closest points battles in Lee County history. Bill Roberts, Dean McGee and Josh Foster are tied for the points lead only one point ahead of Tyler Cale.

All gates open at 5:30 for the five-class show (no late models). Hot laps are scheduled for 7, with racing to follow at 7:30. Grandstand general admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors, $5 for students 11-17 and free for kids 10-under. Pit passes are $20.

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Please let there be racing Sunday night at QR

Posted by seighinger – June 19, 2008

Clearing out the notebook:

– I am SO ready for some dirt-track racing, Broadway Bullring style.

The on-again, off-again season — thanks to all of this ridiculous rain — has been bad enough, but couple that with the constant flood threat hanging over our heads, and there is nothing in the world that sounds better than a Sunday night at 8000 Broadway. And gimme one of those Bullring brats. Puh-leeze.

– I see where Michael Long was disqualified last Saturday at Moberly when during postrace inspection his car was found to be too tall by an inch or something. This came after a pretty decisive feature victory, I am told. Is it just me or does this sound a little suspicious?

Long has been dominant all year, but at no track has he been found guilty of anything illegal. And all of a sudden his car is an inch too high? Maybe Moberly simply didn’t want Michael frequenting that track too often. A couple of questions I would like to see answers to:

Were all cars "measured" in the same manner, such as being on the same type of surface? Or were some measured on a harder/softer/more level surface? That could make a huge difference.

Has this kind of disqualification been common at Moberly?

Are height requirements specifically spelled out in the track rules?

At worst, this appears like a situation that could have been handled with a warning. If I am proven wrong I will gladly say so in this space.

– I wonder how many of the Iowa drivers will be able to make it Sunday? The class that could be hurt the most is the stock car division. The majority of the premier drivers are from up north.

UMP SUMMER NATIONALS ROUNDUP

The United Midwestern Promoters Summernationals, which will stop in
Quincy July 8, is under way. Here’s a look at the latest results to date for
the 27-race, 31-day grind:

Wednesday, June 18, Belle Clair Speedway, Belleville, Ill.: 1. Will Vaught, 2. Brent Kreke, 3. Wes Steidinger, 4. Michael Kloos, 5. Brian Shirley, 6. Jason Feger. 7. Randy Korte, 8. Dennis Erb Jr., 9. Ed Dixon, 10. Jeep Van Wormer. Other notables: 13. Steve Sheppard Jr., 17. Mike Hammerle, 19. Darren Miller, 20. Rodney Melvin.

Tuesday, June 17, Highland Speedway, Highland, Ill.:
1. Terry English, 2. Randy Korte, 3. Will Vaught, 4. Jeep Van Wormer, 5. Brian Shirley, 6. Billy Faust, 7. Kevin Cole, 8. Dennis Erb Jr., 9. Rodney Melvin, 10. Tim Manville. Other notables: 12. Wes Steidinger, 13. Steve Sheppard Jr.

TROUBLE IN TURN 3
www.geoffreystephens.com

Now that Dale Earnhardt, Jr. has won his first points race under the
Hendrick Racing banner, I will compare his effort with the top
performance from the Dale Earnhardt Inc. foursome.

1. Daytona: Dale Jr. 9th, DEI (Martin Truex, Jr.) 20th
2. California: DEI (Truex) 6th, Dale Jr. 40th
3. Las Vegas: Dale Jr. 2nd, DEI (Mark Martin) 10th
4. Atlanta: Dale Jr. 3rd, DEI (Paul Menard) 19th
5. Bristol: Dale Jr. 5th, DEI (Aric Almirola) 8th
6. Martinsville: Dale Jr. 6th, DEI (Regan Smith) 14th
7. Texas: DEI (Martin) 8th, Dale Jr. 12th
8. Phoenix: DEI (Martin) 5th, Dale Jr. 7th
9. Talladega: Dale Jr. 10th, DEI (Menard) 14th
10. Richmond: DEI (Martin) 3rd, Dale Jr. 15th
11. Darlington: Dale Jr. 4th, DEI (Truex) 14th
12. Lowe’s: Dale Jr. 5th, DEI (Martin) 15th
13. Dover: DEI (Truex) 6th, Dale Jr. 35th
14. Pocono: Dale Jr. 4th, DEI (Martin) 10th
15. Michigan: Dale Jr. 1st, DEI (Menard) 11th

The results:

• Dale finished higher than his old team in 10 of the first 15 races this season. Advantage: Jr.
• Dale has an average finish of 10.5 this season. The best DEI finisher has an average finish of 9.9. Advantage: DEI
•
Dale is 3rd in points with 2129. If you accumulate the points earned by
the top DEI finisher in each race, you get 2012 which is good enough
for 4th. Advantage: Jr.
• Dale has one victory, DEI has none. Advantage: Jr.

Even
if Dale Jr. was the top driver at DEI in 2008, he would surely not be
the best finishing driver on the team in each race so these figures are
a little skewed (albeit in Dale’s favor). It is not hard to see,
however, that young Earnhardt made the correct decision.

Stability. Consistency. Maturity. That not only wins races, it wins titles.

Combined Points Standings

Below is an updated look at the combined point standings for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, Nationwide and Craftsman Truck Series:

1. Kyle Busch (5511)
2. Carl Edwards (4118)
3. Clint Bowyer (4100)
4. David Ragan (3795)
5. David Reutimann (3508)
6. Kevin Harvick (3311)
7. Denny Hamlin (3191)
8. Jeff Burton (3091)
9. Greg Biffle (2989)
10. Dale Earnhardt, Jr. (2979)

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Midseason report card time for four QR classes

Posted by seighinger – June 18, 2008

Even though I am having difficulty accepting the fact it’s the midseason point of the local dirt-track season — where did the time go? — I feel I must do my blogging duty and post a halfway report card for each of the four Quincy Raceways classes.

Late Models

Biggest surprise: Dustin Neese, currently second in points. He has been steady all season and managed to avoid any major mishaps.
Best bet to make a move: Joey Gower, who has tumbled from first to eighth in points in recent weeks. He’s too good of a driver and has too good of a car not to turn things around.
Title pick: I’m sticking with my preseason pick of Jason Frankel.
Dark horse: I wouldn’t call him a dark horse, but if not Frankel, I’ll take Justin Reed in the office pool.

Modifieds

Biggest surprise: Rookie Steven DeLonjay’s current second-place standing in points.

Best bet to make a move: Wyatt Lantz is sitting in eighth place in points. That will change, for the better.

Title pick: Michael Long, who looks strong enough to make a run at 40 victories, a mark that would have once been thought unattainable. Of course, we need to avoid as many rainouts in the second half of the season as we have endured in the first half.
Dark horse: Unless Michael Long opts to take a month off this is not a realistic possibility. But if Long is abducted by aliens or asked by Barack Obama or John McCain to be their vice presidential candidate, I would probably pick DeLonjay or Tony Dunker. I think Dunker has a strong second half in him.

Stock Cars

Biggest surprise: Steve Steinkuhler, who has seemingly gotten stronger each week.

Best bet to make a move: Jeff Mueller, who very well could be first in points if he had been able to start the June 1 feature.

Title pick: John Oliver Jr.
Dark horse: Don’t underestimate Steinkuhler.

Hobby stocks

Biggest surprise: Wes Mayfield’s strong — and steady — first-half showing. Mayfield is currently tied for first in points with Aaron Brocksieck.

Best bet to make a move: Bobby Anders, who in his still-fledgling career has always seems to be stronger in the second half of the season.

Title pick: I think Steve Carlin eventually wins title No. 3.
Dark horse: James Leffew, who seems to get better week by week and year by year.

MIDSEASON CHAMPIONSHIP RACES LAST 10 YEARS

Late Models

2007: Terry Gallaher
2006: Mark Burgtorf
2005: Mark Burgtorf
2004: Mark Burgtorf
2003: Mark Burgtorf
2002: Mark Burgtorf
2001: Terry Schlipman
2000: Thad Trump
1999: Terry Gallaher
1998: Tommy Elston

Modifieds

2007: Michael Long
2006: Hank DeLonjay

"A"Modifieds

2005: Hank DeLonjay
2004: Mark Burgtorf
2003: Ryan Meyer
2002: Vance Wilson
2001: Denny Woodworth
2000: Mark Burgtorf
1999: Mike Karhoff
1998: Sam Burgtorf

"B" Modifieds

2005: Wyatt Lantz
2004: Tony Dunker:
2003: Marty Hull Sr.
2002: Joe Bliven
2001: Kelly Bartz
2000: Joe Bliven
1999: Greg Uppinghouse
1998: Bob Dale

Hobby Stocks

2007: Steve Carlin
2006: Steve Carlin
2005: Eddie Dieker
2004: Eddie Dieker
2003: Brent Chapman
2002: Bill Genenbacher
2001: Dave Wietholder
2000: Michael Larsen
1999: Eddie Dieker
1998: Jim Gillenwater

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Midseason championships first leg of ‘triple crown’

Posted by seighinger – June 17, 2008

Sunday night’s midseason championships mark the first leg of Quincy Raceways’ unofficial "triple crown," a feat only a handful of drivers have been able to accomplish in the past 10 years.

The triple crown — winning the midseason championship race, season championship race and points championship — has been managed just eight times. Only one driver, Mark Burgtorf in late models, has done it twice.

Here are the drivers who have turned the trick:

2007: Michael Long (modifieds)
2006: Mark Burgtorf (late models)
2005: Wyatt Lantz ("B" modifieds)
2004: Tony Dunker ("B" modifieds)
2003: Mark Burgtorf (late models)
2001: Dave Wietholder (bombers)
1999: Greg Uppinghouse ("B" modifieds)
1999: Eddie Dieker (bombers)

Of those seven different drivers, five will be in action Sunday. Uppinghouse and Dieker are retired.

UMP SUMMER NATIONALS REPORT

The United Midwestern Promoters Summer Nationals, which will stop in
Quincy July 8, are under way. Here’s a look at the most recent results for
the 27-race, 31-day grind:

Sunday, June 15, Tri-State Speedway, Haubstadt, Ind: 1. Dennis Erb Jr., 2. Randy Korte, 3. Brian Shirley, 4. Billy Moyer, 5. Don O’Neal, 6. Jeep Van Wormer, 7. Wes Steidinger, 8. Kevin Claycomb, 9. Rodney Melvin, 10. Michael Kloos.

Defending champion Dennis Erb Jr. pulled off a dramatic
last-lap pass of Randy Korte to capture Sunday night’s 40-lap main event. Erb, of Carpentersville, Ill., earned $6,000 for his first victory of the
2008 Summer Nationals. Erb’s victory was
the eighth of his career in Summer Nationals action. It also moved him
into the tour’s points lead after three events.

The tour was off Monday night, but returns to the dirt tonight in Highland, Ill.

Points Leaders After 3 Events

1. Dennis Erb Jr., 240 points
2. Billy Moyer, 235
3. Brian Shirley, 235
4. Wes Steidinger, 208
5. Jeep VanWormer, 199
6. Will Vaught, 197
7. Kevin Claycomb, 177
8. Dewayne Keifer, 172
8. Jason Feger, 172
10. Kevin Weaver, 165

This Week’s Summer Nationals Schedule

Tonight: Highland Speedway, Highland, Ill.
Wednesday: Belle Clair Speedway, Belleville, Ill.
Thursday: Jefferson County Speedway, Mt. Vernon, Ill.
Friday: Farmer City Raceway, Farmer City, Ill.
Saturday: I-55 Raceway, Pevely, Mo.
Sunday: Vermilion County Speedway, Danville, Ill.

LATE MODEL NATIONAL RANKINGS
www.latemodelracer.com

1. Billy Moyer
2. Jimmy Owens
3. Scott Bloomquist
4. Steve Francis
5. Shane Clanton
6. Josh Richards
7. Earl Pearson Jr.
8. Shannon Babb
9. Jimmy Mars
10. Eddie Carrier Jr.

www.hoseheads.com

1. Billy Moyer
2. Jimmy Owens
3. Scott Bloomquist
4. Steve Francis
5. Shannon Babb
6. Earl Pearson Jr.
7. Josh Richards
8. Chris Madden
9. Terry Casey
10. Brian Birkhofer

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QR washed out; midseason championships next

Posted by seighinger – June 15, 2008

Sunday’s racing was washed out at Quincy Raceways, mostly because the pits were too wet. A track official told me the track could probably have been gotten ready, but there was no hope for the pits. A late-afternoon rainstorm rolled over the track, although much of Quincy did not receive a drop.

Hard as it is to believe, up next for the boys who make the noise is next Sunday’s midseason championships. Seems like the season just started yesterday, partly because of all the rainouts we’ve had.

To date, there have been five rainouts. In the last five years, there have been 19 washouts, five of them coming in the last 2 1/2 months.

That same track official also told me there were some Iowa drivers planning on attending Sunday night. They had called ahead asking the best route to reach Quincy because they heard both of the bridges across the Mississippi were closed.

STEVIE DIRT REGIONAL RANKINGS

The following late model and modified rankings reflect action through the weekend.

LATE MODELS
Previous rankings in parentheses

11. (10.) Robby Warner, Quincy, Ill., 59
12. (11.) Dustin Griffin, Quincy, 53
13. (12.) Jason Perry, Payson, Ill., 50
14. (13-tie.) Tom Goble, Burlington, Iowa, 49
15-tie. (NR) Tom Bowling, Danville, Iowa, 48
15-tie. (13-tie.) Joey Gower, 48
17-tie. (16-tie.) Matt Ryan, Davenport, Iowa, 41
17-tie. (16-tie.) Terry Gallaher, New London, Mo., 41
17-tie. (16-tie.) Dustin Neese, Nebo, Ill., 41
20. Matt Strassheim, West Burlington, Iowa, 34

On the bubble: Sam Halstead, New London, Iowa, 31; Bill Genenbacher, Camp Point, Ill., 29; Andy Nezworski, Buffalo, Iowa, 29; Colby Springsteen, Morning Sun, Iowa, 25, Kevin Tomlinson, New London, Mo., 23

Note: Rankings based on performances at Quincy
Raceways, 34 Raceway, Lee County Speedway. Points awarded on
25-20-15-12-10-8-6-4-2-1 scale for feature placements.

Previous No. 1 Weekly Rankings
Week 5: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.
Week 4: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.
Week 3: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.
Week 2: Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill.
Week 1: Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.

Late Model Regional Recap

34 Raceway, West Burlington, Iowa: Jason Frankel won Saturday night’s feature and Lonnie Bailey was third, allowing the two Quincy drivers to take command of the points standings. Tom Bowling finished runner-up to Frankel. Four other Quincy drivers raced — Keith Pratt was sixth, Matt Bailey was eighth, Nick Ingalls 14th and Justin Reed 16th.

34 Raceway Late Model Points
West Burlington, Iowa
1. Jason Frankel, Quincy, Ill., 227 points
2. Lonnie Bailey, Quincy, Ill., 223
3. Tom Bowling, Danville, Iowa, 211
4. Tom Goble, Burlington, Iowa, 207
4. Matt Ryan, Davenport, Iowa, 203

Lee County Speedway, Donnellson Iowa: Late models not scheduled.

MODIFIEDS
Previous rankings in parentheses

11. (10.) Tony Dunker, Quincy, Ill., 69
12. (11.) Wyatt Lantz, Augusta, Ill., 68
13. (14-tie.) Andy Krieger, Burlington, Iowa, 64
14. (13.) Darin Thye, Burlington, Iowa, 59
15. (14-tie.) Mike Weikert Jr., Muscatine, Iowa, 56
16. (16.) Scotty Roberts, Columbia, 53
17. (17.) Jeff Waterman, Quincy, 51
18-tie. (16-tie.) Scott Hogan, Vinton, Iowa, 50
18-tie. Brad Carson, Colchester, Ill., 50
18-tie. Chris Larson, Keokuk, Ill., 50.

On the bubble: Robbie Reed, Mexico, Mo., 49; Vance Wilson, Curryville, Mo., 42; Joe Bliven, Quincy, Ill., 41.

Previous No. 1 Weekly Rankings
Week 4: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
Week 3: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
Week 2: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.
Week 1: Michael Long, Quincy, Ill.

Modified Regional Recap

24 Raceway, Moberly, Mo.: David Holder finished first in Saturday night’s main event to pull into a tie for the points lead with Quincy regular Brandon Lennox, who wound up third. Steven DeLonjay’s fifth-place finish was the only other top-10 performance by a Quincy regular.

24 Raceway Modified Points
Moberly, Mo.

1-tie. Brandon Lennox, New London, Mo., 220 points
1-tie. David Holder, Clarence, Mo., 220
3. Scotty Roberts, Columbia., 172
4. Kevin Blackburn, Fulton, Mo., 168
5. Randy Mauzey, Madison, Mo., 136

Scotland County Speedway, Memphis, Mo.: Postponed. Next race Tuesday night.

Lee County Speedway, Donnellson, Iowa: Rained out. Next race Friday night.

UMP SUMMERNATIONALS ROUNDUP

The United Midwestern Promoters Summernationals, which will stop in Quincy July 8, are under way. Here’s a look at the results to date for the 27-race, 31-day grind:

Saturday, June 14, Kamp Motor Speedway, Boswell, Ind.: 1. Wes Steidinger, 2. Mike Mataragas, 3. Brian Birkhofer, 4. Billy Moyer, 5. Dennis Erb Jr., 6. Brian Shirley, 7. Eric Smith, 8. Jordan Bland, 9. Jeep Van Wormer, 10. Jason Feger. Other notables: 11. Don O’Neal, 12. Darren Miller, 16. Kevin Weaver, 20. Tim McCreadie, 21. Steve Sheppard Jr.

Thursday, June 12, Kentucky Lake Motor Speedway, Calvery City, Ky.: 1. Brad Neat, 2. Will Vaught, 3. Brian Shirley, 4. Billy Moyer , 5. Dennis Erb Jr., 6. Jepp Van Wormer, 7. Jeff Walston, 8. Kevin Cale, 9. Dewayne Keifer, 10. Kevin Claycomb. Other notables: 11. John Gill, 14. Keavin Weaver, 16. Darren Miller, 18. Steve Sheppard Jr., 21. Wes Steidinger.

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