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THUNDER NEWS….KYLE LARSON HOLDS OFF THE PENNSYLVANIA POSSE’S FINEST
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Thunder on the Hill
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JULY 3, 2017
CONTACT: BOB MILLER 443 513 4456
NAPA AUTO PARTS THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES
LEVAN Machine & Truck Equipment
KYLE LARSON HOLDS OFF THE PENNSYLVANIA POSSE’S FINEST. . . .
WINS THUNDER SERIES PA SPRINT FEATURE AS DUANE HOWARD TOPS 43 CAR MODIFIED FIELD
BECHTELSVILLE, PA (July 4, 2017) -- On a Fourth of July celebration of speed, Kyle Larson wowed a jam-packed NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill Racing Series crowd and claimed his third straight Pennsylvania 410 Sprint Car Speedweek victory, while Duane Howard scored the win in the NASCAR Modified 30-lap event at the Grandview Speedway on Tuesday Night in an event presented by Pioneer Pole Buildings at the Grandview Speedway.
Larson may have taken the checkered flag, but the region’s top Sprint Car aces – dubbed the Pennsylvania Posse – didn’t take it easy on the current NASCAR Cup Series Point Leader.
“I felt like I was playing defense all night, tonight,” Larson said in Victory Lane. “Ryan Smith had a great car. I definitely got a little lucky.”
Ryan Taylor and Greg Hodnett led the field to the drop of the fireworks filled 410 Sprint Car A-Main. On the initial start, Larson – who started in the third position – shot inside Taylor in a three-wide battle for the lead. Hodnett and Larson engaged in an expert duel for the top spot, until contact between the two sent Hodnett’s No. 27 machine spinning towards the outside guardrail.
Larson set a rapid pace on the restart, with TJ Stutts challenging for the lead. A lap 8 caution stacked the field, and a three-wide battle for the second spot ensued with Stutts holding off Taylor and Rico Abreu. It would be Abreu and Stutts with the short straw after contact between the two left both cars spinning.
Maintaining the lead through consecutive yellows, Larson pulled away from the pack at Lap 11 with Taylor battling Ryan Smith for second place. The red flag flew for the first time on the 12th circuit when, three-time Thunder on the Hill winner, Tyler Walker got upside down in spectacular fashion, collecting Brandon Rahmer in the process.
While Larson held a comfortable lead on the restart, Ryan Smith began closing in – looking to end Larson’s five-race Sprint Car win streak.
A full-house of race fans leaped to their feet when Smith muscled around Larson exiting turn 2, carrying that momentum into turn 3 before clipping the wall, sending The Warko Group No. 94 of Smith flipping wildly into the third turn. A dejected – but unscathed -- Smith exited the car to a standing ovation from race fans.
Inaugural Thunder Cup winner, Danny Dietrich would restart in the second position – but Larson was too quick for ‘Double D’. Aside from the leader, Dietrich had his hands full with third-place runner Freddie Rahmer who maneuvered his way into the second spot with five laps remaining.
Larson held the lead for the remaining five circuits claiming his third consecutive Pennsylvania Speedweek win – and his first NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill Racing Series victory. Freddie Rahmer finished in second – from an 18th-place starting position, Danny Dietrich in third, Ryan Taylor in fourth and Alan Krimes fifth.
Oley, PA’s Duane Howard claimed his second consecutive NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill Racing Series win steering the Norm’s Save Station No. 357 machine. Howard – who started in the fourth position – powered around the outside of Craig VonDohren on the 15th lap and went unchallenged throughout the remainder of the 30-lap NASCAR 358 Modified feature event.
VonDohren brought the Dick Biever-owned No. 14s home in the second position, Ryan Godown of Ringoes, NJ finished in third from a 12th-place starting position, popular NY Modified driver Anthony Perrego finished in the fourth spot, and Mike Gular rounded out the top five.
The next NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill Racing Series event at Grandview Speedway takes place on Thursday, August 17. The 3rd Annual Thunder Cup event features the Arctic All Star Circuit of Champions – with 3-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion, Tony Stewart and popular dirt-track driver, Rico Abreu competing in action.
NAPA Auto Parts continues their long run with the Thunder on the Hill Racing Series as the title sponsor joined by Pioneer Pole Buildings, Levan Machine and Truck Equipment and GALCO Business Communications.
Notes:
25 410 Sprint Cars and 43 Modifieds were signed in for Thunder on the Hill Action
NASCAR drivers Kyle Larson and Kasey Kahne greeted fans and signed autographs throughout the evening while competing in the 410 Sprint Car division.
TJ Stutts won the SprintcarUnlimited.com Quick Time Bonus worth $250.
410 SPRINT CARS
Time Trials – 1. TJ Stutts – 11.812 2. Danny Dietrich – 11.822 3. Kyle Larson – 11.824 4. Rico Abreu – 11.841 5. Dale Blaney -- 11.864 6. Ryan Taylor – 11.867 7. Ryan Smith – 11.886 8. Greg Hodnett – 11.893 9. Alan Krimes – 11.927 10. Tyler Walker – 11. 941 11. Lucas Wolfe – 11.947 12. James McFadden – 11.966 13. Jordyn Brazier – 11.967 14. Davey Sammons – 11. 977 15. Freddie Rahmer – 11.988 16. Kasey Kahne – 12.017 17. JJ Grasso – 12.030 18. Kyle Reinhardt – 12.052 19. Brandon Rahmer – 12.095 20. Gerard McIntyre Jr. – 12.153 21. Brock Zearfoss – 12.154 22. Sean Zemunik 23. Jared Esh – 12.282 24. Mitchell Wormall – 12.316 25. George Streaker Jr. – 13.669
Heat 1 (10 Laps) – 1. Rico Abreu 2. Ryan Smith 3. Tyler Walker 4. TJ Stutts 5. Kasey Kahne 6. Brandon Rahmer 7. Sean Zemunik 8. Jordyn Brazier DNF: George Streaker Jr.
Heat 2 (10 Laps) – 1. Greg Hodnett 2. Dale Blaney 3. Danny Dietrich 4. Lucas Wolfe 5. Davey Sammons 6. JJ Grasso 7. Jared Esh 8. Gerard McIntyre Jr.
Heat 3 (10 Laps) – 1. Ryan Taylor 2. James McFadden 3. Kyle Larson 4. Alan Krimes 5. Kyle Reinhardt 6.
Freddie Rahmer 7. Brock Zearfoss 8. Mitchell Wormall
410 A-Main (35 Laps) – 1. Kyle Larson 2. Freddie Rahmer 3. Danny Dietrich 4. Ryan Taylor 5. Alan Krimes 6. James McFadden 7. JJ Grasso 8. Dale Blaney 9. Brock Zearfoss 10. Rico Abreu 11. Lucas Wolfe 12. Gerard McIntyre Jr. 13. Kasey Kahne 14. Mitchell Wormall 15. Jordyn Brazier 16. Sean Zeumunik 17. George Streaker Jr. 18. Ryan Smith 19. Davey Sammons 20. Tyler Walker 21. Brandon Rahmer 22. TJ Stutts 23. Kyle Reinhardt 24. Greg Hodnett 25. Jared Esh
NASCAR 358 MODIFIEDS
Modified Heat 1 (10 Laps) – 1. Brett Kressley 2. Danny Bouc 3. Tim Buckwalter 4. Dominick Buffalino 5. Kevin Hirthler 6. Ryan Grim 7. Ryan Beltz 8. Clay Butler 9. Ron Haring Jr. 10. Jeff Strunk
Modified Heat 2 (10 Laps) – 1. Ryan Godown 2. Anthony Perrego 3. Craig VonDohren 4. Doug Manmiller 5. Chris Esposito 6. Kyle Weiss 7. Jimmy Reppert 8. Heath Metzger DNF: Steve Davis, Rick Laubach, Frank Yankowski
Modified Heat 3 (10 Laps) – 1. Ray Swinehart 2. Duane Howard 3. Brian Hirthler 4. Kenny Gilmore 5. Craig Whitmoyer 6. Steve Swinehart 7. Mike Lisowski 8. Joe Fanelli 8. Briggs Danner 10. Kyle Lilick DNF: Bobby Trapper
Modified Heat 4 (10 Laps) – 1. John Willman 2. Frank Cozze 3. Billy Pauch, Jr. 4. Jared Umbenhauer 5. Mike Gular 6. Kyle Borror 7. Ryan Watt 8. Kevin Beech 9. Blaine Bracelin
Consi 1 – 1. Kyle Weiss 2. Ryan Grim
Consi 2 – 1. Kyle Borror 2. Ryan Watt
Modified Feature (30 Laps) – 1. Duane Howard 2. Craig VonDohren 3. Ryan Godown 4. Anthony Perrego 5. Mike Gular 6. Jared Umbenhauer 7. Brett Kressley 8. Kyle Weiss 9. Billy Pauch, Jr. 10. Dominick Buffalino 11. Tim Buckwalter 12. John Willman 13. Frank Cozze 14. Danny Bouc 15. Kyle Borror 16. Ryan Grim 17. Brian Hirthler 18. Chris Esposito 19. Ryan Watt 20. Doug Manmiller 21. Ray Swinehart 22. Craig Whitmoyer 23. Jeff Strunk 24. Kenny Gilmore 25. Kevin Hirthler.
2017 Thunder Racing Series Schedule:
3rd Annual Thunder Cup Arctic Cat All-Star Circuit of Champions - Thursday, August 17 7:30 PM - 410 Sprint Cars & Sportsman* Levan Machine and Truck Equipment present Smoke on the Hill. . Tony Stewart and Rico Abreu racing 410 sprint cars.
Mods at the Madhouse Halloween Party - Saturday, October 14 6 PM - Big-Block/358 Modifieds 40 Laps, Sportsman & MASS Sprints
THUNDER ON THE HILL
Posted by: | CommentsThunder on the Hill
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JULY 3, 2017
CONTACT: BOB MILLER 443 513 4456
NAPA AUTO PARTS THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES
LEVAN Machine & Truck Equipment
HOT LAPS: NAPA AUTO PARTS THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES PRESENTS PA SPRINT CAR SPEEDWEEK ACTION ON TUESDAY, JULY 4 AT GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY
BECHTELSVILLE, PA (July 4, 2017) – NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill Racing Series brings the twenty-third running of Pennsylvania Sprint Car Speed week to Grandview Speedway on Tuesday, July 4.
To put some heat in your motors, here are the top stories heading into the Grandview Speedweek event.
THE ACTION -- The 35-lap, $5,000-to-win 410 Sprint Car event is the fifth of a ten-race stretch for competitors, while the 358 NASCAR Modified’s $3,000-to-win race allows Grandview’s premier weekly division to show off their action-enticing style.
Both divisions will participate in a full qualifying program. The 410s will time trial, to set up heat race line-ups, and then compete in a B-Main to line up the A-Main. Inversions will mix the line-ups throughout the night.
For the Modifieds, a blind draw will set the heat race line-ups, and a top-12 redraw will set the feature event, with the consolations filling in the remaining qualifying spots.
NEUTRAL GROUND – This Season, Pennsylvania Sprint Car Speedweek makes up the first of two 410 Sprint Car events at Grandview Speedway. Without weekly 410 competition, Grandview becomes a level playing field for all competitors – which means anything can happen on the one-third mile.
FROM DAYTONA TO DIRT – Race fans are buzzing with excitement for NASCAR Cup Series competitors Kyle Larson and Kasey Kahne. Both drivers competed Saturday night at Daytona International Speedway before heading out to start their Pennsylvania Speedweek.
Larson claimed Sunday’s win at Path Valley Speedway – his first in Central Pennsylvania. With two Cup Series victories, Larson currently leads the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Standings. Larson’s previous Grandview Speedway start resulted in a third-place finish in 2012.
In 2003, Kahne finished in 13th position at Grandview Speedway.
PERFECT 10 – Greg Hodnett has dominated at Grandview Speedway the past few years, claiming five of the past nine 410 Sprint Car main events. A win in Tuesday’s Speedweek event will mark Hodnett’s tenth Thunder on the Hill victory, leaving him tied for second place on the All-Time Sprint Car win list. Billy Pauch is the winningest Sprint Car driver with 11 victories.
ALL EYES ON DOUBLE D – Danny Dietrich’s 2015 win in the Inaugural Thunder Cup ended Greg Hodnett’s 5-Race win streak, Dietrich became the first driver since 2011 to beat Hodnett. Dietrich will be one to watch on Tuesday.
WALKER SPRINT CAR RANGER – Before Dietrich ended Hodnett’s win streak, it was California-native Tyler Walker who picked up two consecutive PA Speedweek wins in 2010 and 2011. Walker returns to the Bechtelsville oval for the first time in five years.
FAST FREDDIE REDUX – His last name is Rahmer, his first name is Freddie, but he doesn’t have 30 Speedweek wins -- He’s the 21-year-old son of the Sprint Car legend, and he picked up the opening night Speedweek win at Williams Grove Speedway. Dubbed ‘Faster Freddie’ by race fans, Rahmer leads the PA Speedweek Championship standings heading into Monday’s Lincoln Speedway event.
THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER – When you think Pennsylvania Speedweek at Grandview your first thought isn’t James McFadden – but in his only Grandview Speedway start (2012) McFadden brought home an impressive second-place finish. Such a strong run on ‘The Hill’ makes you a threat for the $5,000 Speedweek win.
FAN INFORMATION – General Admission gates open at 5 PM on Tuesday, July 4. The Low Down and Dirty Radio Show Driver Meet and Greet will take place from 5-6 PM and feature the popular driver of The Warko Group No. 94, Ryan Smith. Warm-Ups will start at 6:45 PM, with 410 Sprint Car Time Trials at 7:30 PM.
General Admission tickets are $25 for Adults, $10 for Children (6-11), and Kids under 6 are always FREE! Pit Admission is $35, and no license is required.
Fans may camp out at the Speedway for the ultimate Speedweek experience. Campers are asked to park in the turn 4 parking area, there are no hook-ups available, and no box camping allowed. Track officials ask that all fires be contained. There is no fee for camping.
THUNDER ON THE HILL FAN FUN – Fans are encouraged to sign-up for the Inside-Out Program, a free fan experience that allows you to watch 410 Sprint Car and Modified Warm-Ups from the infield of Grandview Speedway.
Along with Inside-Out fans are encouraged to sign-up for free tours of the jam-packed pit area. Sign Ups are available inside the main gate with the Thunder Girls.
JOE THE PIZZA DUDE – Joe ‘The Pizza Dude’ will offer up delicious (and Free!) pizzas to the rowdiest of race fans. Keep an eye out after the National Anthem, when Kressley Auto and Truck Center, along with Harry’s U-Pull-It and Northern Valley Erectors present Joe ‘The Pizza Dude’.
FAN PHOTO CONTEST – Stay engaged with the NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill team at the track by following @TOTHRACING on Instagram and Twitter. Take a photo and use #TOTHRACING to enter our Fan Photo Contest – whether it be the crowd, the pits, the parking lot, or your favorite driver. The winner will receive a FREE General Admission to our Thursday, August 17 All Star Circuit of Champions Sprint Car event.
NAPA Auto Parts continues their long run with the Thunder on the Hill Racing Series as the title sponsor joined by Pioneer Pole Buildings, Levan Machine and Truck Equipment and GALCO Business Communications.
2017 Thunder Racing Series Schedule:
Pennsylvania Sprint Car Speedweek - Tuesday, July 4 7:30 PM - 410 Sprint Cars & 358 Modifieds*
3rd Annual Thunder Cup Arctic Cat All-Star Circuit of Champions - Thursday, August 17 7:30 PM - 410 Sprint Cars & Sportsman* Levan Machine and Truck Equipment present Smoke on the Hill Tony Stewart and Rico Abreu racing 410 sprint cars.
Mods at the Madhouse Halloween Party - Saturday, October 14 6 PM - Big-Block/358 Modifieds 40 Laps, Sportsman & MASS Sprints
*NASCAR Points event
Grandview Speedway
GPS USERS: 43 Passmore Road, Bechtelsville, PA 19505
Located less than a mile off Route 100, 10 miles north of Pottstown, PA
Speedway Phone: 610-754-7688
Thunder on the Hill Racing Series Phone: 443-513-4456
Series Website: Track Website: www.grandviewspeedway.com
Twitter/Instagram: @TOTHRACING
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/thunderonthehill
About Thunder on the Hill Racing Series
The brainchild of Grandview Speedway owner Bruce Rogers, special events promoter Bob Miller and local driving star Dave Kelly, the Thunder on the Hill Racing Series celebrates 28 years of the most anticipated events of the racing calendar year after year. In 125 events over $4.2 million dollars has been divvied up among the area's fastest racers. What started as a single 410 Sprint Car event in 1990 has blossomed to feature a variety of racing action including 358 Modifieds, USAC Wingless Sprints, All-Star Circuit of Champions, 360 & 410 Sprint Cars, Sportsman, Late Models, Midgets, Legends Cars, DIRTcar and ROC Modified events.
About Grandview Speedway
Grandview Speedway is a high-banked one-third mile clay oval, celebrating their 55th Anniversary season in 2017. The facility offers free parking, quality food at reasonable prices (be sure to try the french fries), a program book, Grandview Speedway and Thunder on the Hill race wear and great viewing from every seat in the house. Race fans may take part in the Inside/Out promotion, where you can sign up (no charge) to watch warm-ups from inside turn four. Race fans are also invited to victory lane following the racing program and, race fans may enter the pits after the races to meet the drivers. Be ready to enjoy the spine-tingling fireworks salute on the feature event parade lap.
Thunder on the Hill News
Posted by: | CommentsJUNE 24, 2017
CONTACT: BOB MILLER 443 513 4456
THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES
INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION . . . . .
410 SPRINTS & 358 MODIFIEDS MAKE THUNDER ON THE HILL AT GRANDVIEW TUESDAY, JULY 4
BECHTELSVILLE, PA (JUNE 24, 2017) – The NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill Racing Series returns to the Grandview Speedway Tuesday night, July 4 when the annual Pennsylvania Sprint Speed Week Series invades the Hill. The 358 Modifieds will also be on the race card presented by Pioneer Pole Buildings. Gates open at 5 PM with race time set for 7:30 PM. Advance tickets may be reserved by calling 443 513 4456. Please provide your name, phone number and the number of tickets you will need. Tickets may be paid for and picked up on race night at the Will Call Window after 4 PM. Advance ticket holders may enter the grandstands at 4:30 PM.
One of the biggest dirt track racing events of the season will showcase the 23rd running of the Grandview Speed week event features a 35-lap Sprint Car A-Main -- the fifth race of a ten-race stretch for the winged warriors. Drivers from across the region will compete for a $5,000 winner’s share. Tenth place will pay $1,000 with $400 to start the A-main. For Grandview’s own NASCAR 358 Modifieds, they will battle in a 30-lap feature event, with $3,000 going to the winner.
Fans can get up-close to the drivers and their mighty machines with the Low Down and Dirty Meet and Greet kicking off at 5:00 PM at the main entrance. Sign up when you arrive at the front gate to do a free pre-race pit tour or do the Inside/Out promotion, where you can watch warm-ups from the infield. You will feel the ground shake when the 410 sprints go at the drop of the green.
General Admission Adult tickets are $25, Children ages 6-11 are $10, and Under 6 is Free of charge! Pit admission is $35, and a license is not required.
Expected 410 sprint entrants include: 2015 Thunder Cup Champion, Danny Dietrich; Greg Hodnett, an 8-time winner at Grandview Speedway; Lucas Wolfe, Ryan Smith, Freddie Rahmer, Brandon Rahmer, Alan Krimes, Aaron Ott and Davey Sammons.
The Grandview small-block Modified stars will be out in full force defending their home turf: Current weekly series point leader, Craig VonDohren; 10-time Track Champion, Jeff Strunk; 2017 Thunder Modified winner, Duane Howard; and 4-time Thunder on the Hill winner, Doug Manmiller.
The area's top modified competitors are marking their calendars. Rick Laubach, Ryan Watt, Billy Pauch Jr., Mike Gular, Ryan Godown, and Kevin Hirthler are all expected to be in attendance.
Fans may camp out at the Speedway for the ultimate Speedweek experience. Campers are asked to park in the turn 4 parking area, there are no hook-ups available, and no box camping allowed. Track officials ask that all fires be contained. There is no fee for camping.
NAPA Auto Parts continues their long run with the Thunder on the Hill Racing Series as the title sponsor joined by Pioneer Pole Buildings, Levan Machine and Truck Equipment and GALCO Business Communications.
2017 Thunder Racing Series Schedule:
Pennsylvania Sprint Car Speedweek - Tuesday, July 4 7:30 PM - 410 Sprint Cars & 358 Modifieds*
3rd Annual Thunder Cup Arctic Cat All-Star Circuit of Champions - Thursday, August 17 7:30 PM - 410 Sprint Cars & Sportsman* Levan Machine and Truck Equipment present Smoke on the Hill Tony Stewart and Rico Abreu racing 410 sprint cars.
Mods at the Madhouse Halloween Party - Saturday, October 14 6 PM - Big-Block/358 Modifieds 40 Laps, Sportsman & MASS Sprints
*NASCAR Points event
Grandview Speedway
GPS USERS: 43 Passmore Road, Bechtelsville, PA 19505
Located less than a mile off Route 100, 10 miles north of Pottstown, PA
Speedway Phone: 610-754-7688
Thunder on the Hill Racing Series Phone: 443-513-4456
Series Website: Track Website: http://www.grandviewspeedway.com
Twitter/Instagram: @TOTHRACING
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/thunderonthehill
About Thunder on the Hill Racing Series
The brainchild of Grandview Speedway owner Bruce Rogers, special events promoter Bob Miller and local driving star Dave Kelly, the Thunder on the Hill Racing Series celebrates 28 years of the most anticipated events of the racing calendar year after year. In 125 events over $4.2 million dollars has been divvied up among the area's fastest racers. What started as a single 410 Sprint Car event in 1990 has blossomed to feature a variety of racing action including 358 Modifieds, USAC Wingless Sprints, All-Star Circuit of Champions, 360 & 410 Sprint Cars, Sportsman, Late Models, Midgets, Legends cars, DIRTcar and ROC Modified events.
About Grandview Speedway
Grandview Speedway is a high-banked one-third mile clay oval, celebrating their 55th Anniversary season in 2017. The facility offers free parking, quality food at reasonable prices (be sure to try the french fries), a program book, Grandview Speedway and Thunder on the Hill race wear and great viewing from every seat in the house. Race fans may take part in the Inside/Out promotion, where you can sign up (no charge) to watch warm-ups from inside turn four. Race fans are also invited to victory lane following the racing program and, race fans may enter the pits after the races to meet the drivers. Be ready to enjoy the spine-tingling fireworks salute on the feature event parade lap.
LINCOLN SPEEDWAY AMSOIL USAC EASTERN STORM RESULTS
Posted by: | CommentsJUNE 14, 2017
CONTACT: BOB MILLER 443 513 4456
AMSOIL USAC NON WING SPRINTS
THOMAS “T-MEZ” MESERAULL POCKETS $6,000 IN LINCOLN SPEEDWAY AMSOIL USAC EASTERN STORM
Abbottstown, PA June 14, 2017 . . .“This 27 car was on fire tonight”, commented feature winner Thomas “T-Mez” Meseraull in the Lincoln Speedway victory lane Wednesday night. This was the second race of the 2017 Amsoil USAC Non-Wing Eastern Storm and “T-Mez” out-classed the twenty-eight car field. “Special thanks to Gene Franckowiak, Sean Michael and the entire Heffner team for this great car tonight and it’s exciting to win here in Pennsylvania”, said a joyful Meseraull who made the trip from his hometown of San Jose, California. In the 20 lap 358 Sprint feature, Brie Hershey took the win leading wire-to-wire over a challenging Adrian Shaffer.
The USAC Amsoil non-wing sprints saw Justin Grant set fast time, stopping the clock with a time of 15.847. Shane Golobic, Chris Windom and Aaron Farney were heat race winners as Robert Ballou took the win the B Main.
At the start of the feature, Jarett Andretti set the pace for the first five circuits but all eyes were on Thomas “T-Mez” Meseraull. By lap seven, “T-Mez” was the new leader. A caution on lap eight brought the field together for the final time, as the race go non-stop to the checker flag.
On the restart, “T-Mez” ran to hide from the rest of the field, leaving Andretti and Chad Boespflug to battle for second. By the halfway mark, “T’Mez” had check out with Andretti and Boespflug still in a battle for second followed by Kevin Thomas Jr and Chris Windom.
“T-Mez” was just awesome threading his way through lapped traffic. The battle for second continued but now Kevin Thomas was racing in third by lap seventeen.
Thomas pulled a few slide-jobs on Andretti but with each attempt, Andretti held on to the runner-up spot.
With the checker flag waiving, T-Mez was all alone to collect the $6,000 first place prize money in the 30 lap feature. Andretti finished second followed by Kevin Thomas Jr., Chad Boespflug and Chris Windom.
A field of twenty-eight 358 Sprints competed in heat race qualifying events with victories going to Phil Walter, Adrian Shaffer and Doug Hammaker as Todd Rittenhouse took the win in the B Main.
In the twenty lap 358 Sprint feature Brie Hersey immediately took the lead from her front row starting position. Hershey immediately had to deal with a challenging Adrian Shaffer with Ashley Cappetta making up the top three. Phil Walter was working his way to the front racing in third by lap five.
Hershey ran a flawless race shaking off a determined Shaffer with each lap. At halfway the top five remained unchanged with countless shuffling for positions taking place in the middle of the field. Shaffer again began to reel in the leader but Hershey was not about to hand over the lead. Meanwhile, Phil Walter was closing in on the leaders and now Brent Shearer was in the hunt.
Through the closing laps, Hershey ran a flawless race to earn the $1,000 first place prize followed by Adrian Shaffer, Phil Walter, Brent Shearer and Ashley Cappetta.
USAC FEATURE $6,000 TO WIN FINISH: Thomas Meseraull, Jarett Andretti, Kevin Thomas, Jr., Chad Boespflug, Chris Windom, Tyler Courtney, Shane Golobic, CJ Leary, Kyle Robbins, Jerry Coons Jr, Alex Bright, Chase Stockon, Robert Ballou, Brady Bacon, Kyle Moody, Aaron Farney, Issac Chapple, Carmen Perigo, Dave Darland, Justin Grant, Dustin Smith, Danny Dietrich.
Fast Time: Justin Grant 15.874
USAC Heat Winners Shane Golobic, Chris Windom, Aaron Farney, B Main Winner –Robert Ballou
358 SPRINT FEATURE FINISH: Brie Hershey, Adrian Shaffer, Phil Walter, Brent Shearer, Ashely Cappetta, Doug Hammaker, Tyler Ross, Kyle Denmyer, Ryan Higgins, Todd Rittenhouse Jr., Dalton Dietrich, Landon Myers, Matt Findley, Zack Eucalano, Cody Fletcher, Steve Wilbur, T.J. DeHaven, Zack Allman, Jeff Halligan, Trey Hivner, Jordan Givler, Mike Bittinger, Troy Wagaman Jr., Ryan Quackenbush.
Heat Winners: Phil Walter, Adrian Shaffer, Doug Hammaker, B Main Winner – Todd Rittenhouse Jr.
Eastern Storm Results
Posted by: | CommentsJUNE 13, 2017
CONTACT: BOB MILLER 443 513 4456
THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES
NAPA AUTO PARTS NIGHT ON THE HILL. . . . .
BRADY BACON SIZZLES ON HOT THUNDER ON THE HILL NIGHT; DUANE HOWARD TOPS GRANDVIEW MODS; EASTERN STORM ROLLS ONTO LINCOLN SPEEDWAY WEDNESDAY NIGHT, JUNE 14
BECHTELSVILLE, PA (JUNE 13, 2017) – It was a hot NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill Racing Series night at Grandview Speedway and a packed house witnessed Broken Arrow, Oklahoma’s Brady Bacon collecting the USAC AMSOIL National Sprint Car Series win, claiming the $6,000 to win Jesse Hockett Classic. Oley, PA’s Duane Howard claimed the win in the 30 lap $3,000 to win NASCAR 358 Modified feature, an event presented by Pioneer Pole Buildings.
This year’s Jesse Hockett Classic marked Bacon’s 18th career USAC AMSOIL National Sprint Car Series and his first NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill Racing Series win. A field of thirty-two USAC sprints cars and thirty-two 358 Modifieds took part in the program. Even with extremely warm temperatures and a 50% chance of rain, the show did go on.
Greenfield, IN’s CJ Leary charged from the top starting spot battling with current USAC AMSOIL National Sprint Car Series Point Leader, Justin Grant. Leary and Grant pulled away from the 23-car starting field gaining a sizable advantage before a lap 7 yellow.
Leary maintained control on the restart, with Grant hot on his heels and Chad Boespflug close for third. But as the leaders pulled away from the pack, a three-car battle for fourth-place ensued as Bacon challenged Dave Darland and Kevin Thomas, Jr.
Just prior to half-way a turn-1 flip ended Carlisle, PA’s Chandler Leiby run. The red flag for Leiby, and an incident grandstand side halted the action for a lengthy period of time.
The open red, allowed crews to adjust their cars moving furiously around the open-wheel beasts and preparing for the second half of the feature event.
On the restart, Leary held the top spot, but all eyes were on Brady Bacon. Bacon charged three-wide with Grant and Kevin Thomas, Jr.
Bacon overtook Leary holding the inside line on lap 24 but Leary held on rim-riding the top side. Bacon charged alongside Leary as the two diced side-by-side for nearly 10 laps. Leary overtook Bacon with four-laps remaining, but an altercation with a lapped car slowed Leary and gave Bacon the opportunity to pounce forward for the $6,000 victory. Leary settled for second, Chris Windom finished in a hard-fought third place, Kevin Thomas Jr. came home in fourth and Justin Grant finished fifth.
The Eastern Storm continues on Wednesday at the Lincoln Speedway featuring the USAC Non-wing sprints cars and the 358 wing sprint cars. Gates open at 5 PM with race time set for 7:30 PM.
Oley, PA’s Duane Howard claimed his 10th Thunder on the Hill Racing Series win leading the Norm’s Save Station No. 357 to the checkered flag in the non-stop 30-lap 358 Modified feature event.
Mike Gular quickly took the lead from his front row starting position and battled back-and-forth with John Willman. Howard moved into the second-position on lap nine with Craig VonDohren and Jeff Strunk quickly on his tail.
The leaders hit lapped traffic on the 14th circuit, and Howard closed quickly on Gular as VonDohren hammerd the cushion around the top side. Howard’s No. 357 slipped inside Gular with 10-laps remaining and VonDohren followed closely winding up the top side of the 1/3-mile oval.
Howard held on for the win, VonDohren came home second, Gular third, Jeff Strunk in the fourth position and Ryan Godown rounded out the top five finishers.
The NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill Racing Series returns to action on Tuesday, July 4 for Pennsylvania Sprint Car Speedweek. The 410 Sprint Cars compete in a double header with the NASCAR 358 Modifieds. Gates open at 4 PM with race time set for 7:30 PM.
For more information visit www.thunderonthehillracingseries.com
AMSOIL USAC Time Trials:
Chase Stockon - 13.830 2. Brady Bacon - 13.854 3. Kevin Thomas Jr. - 13.871 4. Kyle Moody - 13.892 5. Thomas Meseraull - 13.893 6. Jarrett Andretti - 13.905 7. Robert Ballou - 13.978 8. Dave Darland - 13.993 9. Justin Grant - 14.062 10. Trevor Kobylarz - 14.100 11. Tony DiMattia - 14.106 12. Kyle Robbins - 14.141 13. Jerry Coons, Jr. - 14.148 14. Chris Windom - 14.153 15. Isaac Chapple - 14.182 16. Alex Bright - 14.196 17. Chad Boespflug - 14.210 18. Aaron Farney - 14.217 19. Joey Biasi - 14.228 20. Tyler Courtney - 14.241 21. C.J. Leary - 14.266 22. Carmen Perigo - 14.365 23. Matt Westfall - 14.419 24. Chandley Leiby - 14.530 25. Shane Golobic - 14.531 26. Danny Dietrich - 14.596 27. Dustin Smith - 14.653 28. Austin Burke - 15.095 29. Kyle Lick - 15.219 30. Chad Wilson - 15.234 31. Steve Wilbur - 15.248 32. Trey Hivner - 15.691
Heat 1 (8 Laps) – 1. Isaac Chapple 2. Chandler Leiby 3. Chad Boespflug 4. Tony DiMattia
Heat 2 (8 Laps) – 1. Tyler Courtney 2. Alex Bright 3. Justin Grant 4. Jarrett Andretti
Heat 3 (8 Laps) – 1. Aaron Farney 2. Matt Westfall 3. CJ Leary 4. Kevin Thomas, Jr.
Heat 4 (8 Laps) – 1. Chris Windom 2. Dave Darland Joey Biasi 4. Trevor Kobylarz
B-Main (12 Laps) – 1. Chase Stockon 2. Robert Ballou 3. Brady Bacon 4. Thomas Meseraull 5. Kyle Robbins 6. Jerry Coons, Jr.
A-Main (40 Laps) – 1. Brady Bacon 2. CJ Leary 3. Chris Windom 4. Kevin Thomas, Jr. 5. Justin Grant 6. Robert Ballou 7. Chase Stockon 8. Jerry Coons, Jr. 9. Tyler Courtney 10. Jarrett Andretti 11. Matt Westfall 12. Aaron Farney 13. Thomas Meseraull 14. Alex Bright 15. Kyle Robbins 16. Dave Darland 17. Chad Boespflug 18. Isaac Chapple 19. Tony DiMattia 20. Trevor Kobylarz 21. Chandler Leiby 22. Joey Biasi
358 Modifieds
Heat 1 (10 Laps) – 1. Craig VonDohren 2. Duane Howard 3. Doug Manmiller 4. Jeff Strunk 5. Danny Erb 6. Ryan Beltz
Heat 2 (10 Laps) – 1. Brett Kressley 2. Rick Laubach 3. Danny Bouc 4. Frank Cozze 5. Ryan Godown 6. Blaine Bracelin
Heat 3 (10 Laps) – 1. Kenny Gilmore 2. John Willman 3. Mike Gular 4. Ryan Watt 5. Chris Esposito 6. Jared Umbenhauer
CONSOLATION: (10 Laps) – 1. Kyle Borror 2. Brian Hirthler 3. Ryan Grim 4. Brandon Grosso 5. Clay Butler 6. Mark Kratz
Feature (30 Laps) – 1. Duane Howard 2. Craig VonDohren 3. Mike Gular 4. Jeff Strunk 5. Ryan Godown 6. Doug Manmiller 7. Kenny Gilmore 8. Rick Laubach 9. John Willman 10. Danny Bouc 11. Danny Erb 12. Brett Kressley 13. Kyle Borror 14. Frank Cozze 15. Ryan Watt 16. Chris Esposito 17. Jared Umbenhauer 18. Brandon Grosso 19. Ryan Grim 20. Clay Butler 21. Brian Hirthler 22. Ryan Beltz 23. Blaine Bracelin 24. Mark Kratz
2017 Thunder Racing Series Schedule:
Pennsylvania Sprint Car Speed Week - Tuesday, July 4 7:30 PM - 410 Sprint Cars & 358 Modifieds*
3rd Annual Thunder Cup Arctic Cat All-Star Circuit of Champions - Thursday, August 17 7:30 PM - 410 Sprint Cars & Sportsman SMOKE ON THE HILL . . . . 410 Sprint car entries Tony Stewart and Rico Abreu
Mods at the Madhouse Halloween Party - Saturday, October 14 6 PM - Big-Block/358 Modifieds 40 Laps, Sportsman & MASS Sprints
EASTERN STORM NEWS
Posted by: | CommentsJUNE 10, 2017
CONTACT: BOB MILLER 443 513 4456
THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES
AMSOIL USAC NON-WING SPRINT EASTERN STORM HEADING EAST, GRANDVIEW & LINCOLN TO OPEN SERIES TUESDAY, JUNE 13 AND WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14
USAC DRIVER NICKNAMES, DO THEY TELL A STORY ABOUT THE DRIVERS?
We’re just days away from the arrival of USAC drivers from California to Pennsylvania, heading east to open the 11th Annual Eastern Storm, getting underway at the NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill Racing Series event at the Grandview Speedway on Tuesday night, June 13. The following night, Lincoln Speedway in Abbottstown, PA will showcase this traveling series of non-wing 410 sprint cars joined by the 358 wing sprint cars. Both nights of racing will get underway at 7:30 PM.
The Eastern Storm will continue on Thursday night, June 15 at Williams Grove then close out the weekend on Saturday night, June 17 at Port Royal and Sunday night, June 18 at the Susquehanna Speedway. This will mark the eleventh annual swing of USAC here in the east, a tour organized by local special events organizer Bob Miller.
Nationally known drivers from numerous states are heading east for this five race series offering over $135,000 in prize money. Many of these drivers are heading to town with a nickname attached to them for one reason or another. But what do these nicknames tell us about these drivers?
We can start with Chris Windom from Canton, IL who is known as “The Bear”. There is also Robert Ballou from Rocklin, CA who earned the nickname “The Madman”, certainly explainable if you watched him power his way through Pennsylvania on previous Eastern Storms. One other point, Ballou sustained injuries last year in a crash that put him on the sidelines the balance of the year. In just his second start since the crash, “The Madman” was a feature winner. Is that mad or what?
Carmen Perigo of Stoystown, PA is labeled with, “Wind it Up and Watch Him Go”, not much to explain on this one. Now a little more interesting is Tyler Courtney of Indianapolis, IN who is known as “Sunshine”. What’s the story on that one?
Driver’s names also have something to do with those labels or nicknames. For example, Thomas Meseraull of San Jose, CA goes by “T-Mez”, the very popular Jerry Coons, Jr of Tucson, AZ known as “Coon Dog” as Kevin Thomas Jr of Cullman, AL goes by “KTJ”.
Perhaps your hometown has something to do with your nickname, like Chad Boespflug of Hanford, CA. Chad is well recognized as the “Hanford Hornet”, known for stinging the competition and stirring a buzz with the crowd. There is also Tony Dimattia of Malvern, PA, known as the “Malvern Missile”.
Now there are still two drivers that you might want to ask about their nicknames. First, Brady Bacon of Broken Arrow, CA who goes by, “The Macho Man” and local favorite Danny Dietrich is “Double D”. How did those nicknames come about?
Last but certainly not least, one of the most recognized USAC drivers, Dave Darland of Lincoln, IN was named by the race fans, “The People’s Champ”.
The Amsoil USAC Non-Wing Sprints Eastern Storm will open at the Grandview Speedway on Tuesday, June 13. This will also mark the opening event of the NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill Racing Series presented by Pioneer Pole Buildings. If you have never seen a non-wing 410 sprint car race (especially at Grandview Speedway) this is the show to see.
The Tuesday, June 13 event at Grandview Speedway will get underway at 7:30 PM. Joining the USAC non-wing sprints on the program will be the 358 Modifieds chasing a $3,000 payday for the 30 lap run. Craig VonDohren, Duane Howard, Jeff Strunk, Ryan Godown, Billy Pauch Jr., Ryan Watt, Rick Laubach and Frank Cozze, are some of the expected modified entries. Qualifying will take place for both divisions.
Other USAC entries to expect include Fort Branch, Indiana’s Chase Stockon, Kokomo, IN driver Shane Cottle, Sikeston, MO favorite Hunter Schuerenberg, and Landon Simon of Tipp City Ohio. I’m sure we all remember the 2016 Grandview performance by Mooresville, North Carolina’s driver Jarett Andretti, almost taking the win. Tyler Courtney of Indianapolis, IN, and Greenfield, IN driver C.J. Leary are hoping to break through for an Eastern Storm taste of victory.
On the local scene, Danny Dietrich a 410 sprint car feature winner at Grandview and the winner of the 2016 National Open at Williams Grove, plans to make his initial foray into USAC for Eastern Storm on the “hill” at Grandview. Defending ARDC Midget champion and 2016 Chili Bowl Midget Nationals preliminary feature winner Alex Bright, is a regular in USAC’s midget division, and will try his hand for the first time in a USAC Sprint Car.
Advance tickets for the Grandview USAC/358 Modified events are available by calling 443 513 4456. Please leave your name, phone number and the number of tickets you need. You may pay for and pick-up your tickets on race night at the Grandview Speedway WILL CALL window after 4 PM. Advance ticket holders may enter the grandstand at 4:30 PM with General Admission tickets going on sale at 5 PM.
Grandview Speedway
GPS USERS: 43 Passmore Road, Bechtelsville, PA 19505
Located less than a mile off Route 100, 10 miles north of Pottstown, PA
Speedway Phone: 610-754-7688
Thunder on the Hill Racing Series Phone: 443-513-4456 (Call for advance tickets)
Series Website: Track Website: www.grandviewspeedway.com
Twitter/Instagram: @TOTHRACING
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/thunderonthehill
Thunder News Tony Stewart & Rico Abreu
Posted by: | CommentsThunder on the Hill
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JUNE 1, 2017
CONTACT: BOB MILLER 443 513 4456
NAPA AUTO PARTS THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES
LEVAN Machine & Truck Equipment bring
“SMOKE ON THE HILL” TO GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY;
TONY STEWART & RICO ABREU JOIN ALL STAR SPRINTS IN THUNDER SHOW THURSDAY, AUGUST 17
BECHTELSVILLE, PA (June 1, 2017) – Two of the country’s most popular drivers head towards ‘The Hill’ in a special event of epic proportions.
When the NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill Racing Series heads to Grandview Speedway on Thursday, August 17, three-time NASCAR Cup Champion Tony Stewart and two-time Chili Bowl Nationals champion, Rico Abreu, will strap into a 410 sprint car and compete with the Arctic Cat All Star Circuit of Champions.
Tony Stewart
Rico Abreu
Brought to you by Levan Machine & Truck Equipment, you’ll find “Smoke on the Hill” and Rico Abreu when the green flag falls for the third Annual Thunder Cup -- a 30 lap, $5,000 to win 410 sprint car special event.
Levan Machine & Truck Equipment located in Fleetwood, PA (just outside of Reading, PA) is part of the Thunder on the Hill family of sponsors. Levan Machine & Truck Equipment is a full-service machine shop and custom truck up-fitting center for Central Pennsylvania. Levan also provides a full line of truck bodies, van interiors, and utility and service bodies. They are the local Boss Snowplow distributor including snowplows and salt spreaders; a Knapheide retailer for truck bodies and lift gates, and a Weatherguard distributor for van and truck interior products. Levan Machine & Truck Equipment also provides repair as an ASE Blue Seal recognized service location. For full details on all of Levan Machine & Truck Equipment products and services log onto www.levanmachine.com
The Levan Machine & Truck Equipment visit will mark Tony Stewart’s first in action racing appearance at the Grandview Speedway located about 50 miles south of NASCAR mainstay, Pocono Raceway.
"Grandview was one of the first events I added to my schedule this year,” Tony Stewart explained. “After attending the race last year as a spectator and owner of the All Stars, I knew I had to participate in the race this year. As a sprint car fan, it is one of the most exciting tracks to watch a sprint car race. I cannot wait to get my [No.] 14 car unloaded on the Hill. The competition will be nothing short of spectacular. I hope we can have a good night and put ourselves in a position to compete for the win.”
Abreu, one of the most exciting and most popular Sprint Car drivers in the country is anxious to get to the Berks County dirt track.
“I’m really excited to get to Grandview, I've heard a lot of great things about the track,” Abreu stated. “I've got a lot of fans in Pennsylvania and I don't get to race that far east too much, but definitely look forward to that night with the All Stars and all the tough Pennsylvania cars. It's always fun going to new tracks especially in an area known for some of the best sprint car drivers in the country."
Stewart and Abreu join more than 15 full-time Arctic Cat All Stars competitors, but while the All Stars bring an elite group of drivers, a battalion of Central Pennsylvania’s top stars are prepared to defend their home turf – and when the greatest Sprint Car drivers in the world do battle it is sure to be unpredictable, especially “on the hill”.
Expected top guns include nine-time Grandview 410 Sprint Car winner and six-time Thunder on the Hill Champion, Greg Hodnett; along with past Thunder Cup winner Danny Dietrich, Lucas Wolfe, Freddie Rahmer, Alan Krimes, Brandon Rahmer. While series regulars include Chad Kemenah, Caleb Armstrong, Ryan Smith, Max Stambaugh, T.J. Michael and Caleb Helms.
Additional news and updates about this event will be available on all of the NAPA Auto Parts Thunder on the Hill Racing Series social media channels.
NAPA Auto Parts continues their long run with the Thunder on the Hill Racing Series as the title sponsor joined by Pioneer Pole Buildings, Levan Machine and Truck Equipment, Quaker Steak & Lube, and GALCO Business Communications.
2017 Thunder Racing Series Schedule:
11th Annual Jesse Hockett Classic - Tuesday, June 13 7:30 PM -- USAC National Wingless Sprint Car Series Eastern Storm and 358 Modifieds*
Pennsylvania Sprint Car Speed Week - Tuesday, July 4 7:30 PM - 410 Sprint Cars & 358 Modifieds*
SMOKE ON THE HILL. . .. 3rd Annual Thunder Cup Arctic Cat All-Star Circuit of Champions - Thursday, August 17 7:30 PM - 410 Sprint Cars & Sportsman* Tony Stewart & Rico Abreu racing on the Hill
Mods at the Madhouse Halloween Party - Saturday, October 14 6 PM - Big-Block/358 Modifieds 40 Laps, Sportsman & MASS Sprints
*NASCAR Points event
Grandview Speedway
GPS USERS: 43 Passmore Road, Bechtelsville, PA 19505
Located less than a mile off Route 100, 10 miles north of Pottstown, PA
Speedway Phone: 610-754-7688
Thunder on the Hill Racing Series Phone: 443-513-4456
Series Website: Track Website: www.grandviewspeedway.com
Twitter/Instagram: @TOTHRACING
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/thunderonthehill
About Thunder on the Hill Racing Series
The brainchild of Grandview Speedway owner Bruce Rogers, special events promoter Bob Miller and local driving star Dave Kelly, the Thunder on the Hill Racing Series celebrates 28 years of the most anticipated events of the racing calendar year after year. In 124 events over $4.2 million dollars has been divvied up among the area's fastest racers. What started as a single 410 Sprint Car event in 1990 has blossomed to feature a variety of racing action including 358 Modifieds, USAC Wingless Sprints, All-Star Circuit of Champions, 360 & 410 Sprint Cars, Sportsman, Late Models, Midgets, Legend Cars, DIRTcar and ROC Modified events.
About Grandview Speedway
Grandview Speedway is a high-banked one-third mile clay oval, celebrating their 55th Anniversary season in 2017. The facility offers free parking, quality food at reasonable prices (be sure to try the french fries), a program book, Grandview Speedway and Thunder on the Hill race wear and great viewing from every seat in the house. Race fans may take part in the Inside/Out promotion, where you can sign up (no charge) to watch warm-ups from inside turn four. Race fans are also invited to victory lane following the racing program and, race fans may enter the pits after the races to meet the drivers. Be ready to enjoy the spine-tingling fireworks salute on the feature event parade lap.
About the Arctic Cat All Star Circuit of Champions
All Star Enterprises, LLC, owned by Tony Stewart, d/b/a the All Star Circuit of Champions, is a winged sprint car series. The All-Star Circuit of Champions Sprint Car Series is one of the oldest traveling 410 sprint car organizations and is a staple of grassroots, open-wheel racing. Formed in 1970 by Bud Miller, the series has largely been considered the first 'outlaw' Sprint Car organization of the modern era. After a 10 year stint as owner of the All Stars, Miller passed control of the series to Bert Emick in 1980; a reign that would continue through 2002. Guy Webb then purchased the series from Emick in the summer of 2002 and served as the series President for the next 12 years. Motorsports entrepreneur Tony Stewart agreed to terms with Guy Webb to become the sole owner of the original winged sprint car tour in January of 2015.
