Accord, NY- Track Champ Anthony Perrego Scores First Win In Accord Speedway Modified Action
By: Steve Pados, Accord Speedway Media

The Catskill Mountain area of New York offers many spectacular views and exciting things to do for vacationers. However, Fridays are reserved for the exciting action only exciting high level short track racing can provide. The Accord Speedway has been doing just that, giving the loyal racing fans some great racing action when Mother Nature does not rain on their parade. The first really good weather Friday evening brought in another great roster of driving talent and the fans went away satisified they had witnessed another great night of dirt track racing. The evening of speed was sponsored by Powder Tech Powdercoating from Duanesburg, New York. Their website is: www.powdertechinc.com. The checkered flag bonus was sponsored by Behrents Speed Center.

When all was said and done, The "Montgomery Missile" Anthony Perrego clicked for his first win of the season in the United Pump & Tank Modifieds. Tony Kowalchuk led only the last lap in scoring his first win of the season in the Arkel Motors Sportsman. Travis Brockner had the hot hand as he captured his first win in the Upstate Auto Pure Stocks. Eric Jennings made it two in a row in the WRWD Radio NEWS Sprint Cars. "The Cold Spring Kid" Jake Mason made it three in a row as he once again dominated the action in the Want Ad Digest Junior Slingshots. "The Jersey Force" Anthony Recchio scored his second win of the season in claiming the win in the WRWD Radio Rookie Sportsman. Dave Donovan captured another win in the Emmanuel's Marketplace 4-Cylinder Enduro finale at the speedway even though he was not the first one across the finish line.

Jimmy Wells and Tommy Johnson brought the United Pump & Tank Modified field down for the start of the 30-lap main event. At the drop of the green it was Well getting the jump on the field and grabbed the lead coming out of turn two on the initial lap. Wells would lead the event through lap ten when he was out-powered by the strong running Perrego. The action was hot and heavy as many drivers tried to punch their ticket to the number one spot. Perrego held off comers but as the race hit the latter stages, Brad Rothaupt was pesky and fast as he tried to wrestle way the top spot. Rothaupt would pull just about even at times but Perrego would prevail and in doing so, captured his first win of the season at Accord. Rothaupt did an excellent job and finished in the runner-up role. Danny Tyler hustled to a third place finish. Brian Krummel was fourth and Mike Ricci finished fifth. Jesse Marks headed up the second five with Danny Creeden, Richard Smith, Richie Eurich and Eddie Burgess rounding out the top ten.

In the Arkel Motors Sportsman action, "The Little Rock" Matt Shultz hustled into the lead at the drop of the green flag. Shultz would race to daylight ahead of the field and built up a huge lead. Things would change quickly on lap ten as two-time winner Kyle Rohner raced through the pack and became a contender until turned around by Phil Goetchius. The big lead evaporated for Shultz but as the green flag was displayed he once again ran to daylight but moving into second place with a good car under him was Tony Kowalchuk. The race slowed down with a few cautions but Shultz was steady and holding off the baseline advances of Kowalchuk. Shultz still held the lead on the white flag lap but bobbled a bit between turns one and two and Kowalchuk seized the opportunity to blast by and lead the final lap to score his first Accord win in quite some time. Shultz, although disappointed, was a strong runner-up with the returning Chris Stevens racing to third place, Tyler Johnston fourth and Cole Hentschel completing the top five. Rohner recovered from his early misfortune and raced back to sixth whil Jim Johnson, Winter Mead, BRandon McGill and Ralph Ronk completed the top ten.

Anthony Recchio put on a great show as he led all of the way in scoring his second win of the season in the WRWD Rookie Sportsman main event. "The Hurricane" Hunter Lapp was solid with a strong runner-up finish. Kenny Ryder was third with Kevin Stevens fourth and Bobby Flood fifth after running with the leaders, spinning and then making a solid comeback.
Jake Granacker headed up the second five with RJ Daley, Mike Corbin, Brandon Daley and newcomer Chet Doolan following.

Emerson Cargain led the first lap of the Upstate Auto Pure Stock feature before yielding to a hot running Travis Brockner. Once in front, Brockner built up a healthy lead with Ray Tarantino giving chase late in the event. Brockner scored his first win of the season with Tarantino second, Emerson Cargain third, John Hechinger fourth and Steve Williams rounding out the top five.

The WRWD Radio NEWS Sprint Cars found Eric Jennings starting up front and that was all he needed to score his second consecutive win at the speedway by leading all laps on his way to victory. Larry McVay was the runner-up for the second week in a row and Heidi Hedin scored her second straight third place finish. Andrew Davis was fourth.

Jake Mason was victorious in the Want Ad Digest Junior Slingshot event and he did it by leading all laps on his way to victory and score his third win in succession. Ashton DeWitt made his first appearance a good one as he finished second with Jaden Sleight third, Wyatt Hager fourth, newcomer RJ Sherman fifth and Brock Pinkerous sixth.

Jeff DeGroat crossed the finish line first but over aggression on the part of a few drivers resulted in some penalties that altered the outcome of the event. Dave Donovan was declared the winner of the event. Jerry Kinteger was second with Paul Harding, Gene Helms and Cody DeMarmels completing the top five.

Gemstones:

Modified heats were captured by Jimmy Wells, Mike Ricci and Danny Creeden. Sportsman heat wins were claimed by Tyler Johnston, Ralph Ronk and Matt Shultz. Eric Jennings claimed the NEWS Sprint heat win. Rookie Sportsman heats went to Jimmy Devitt and Ryan McCartney. Pure Stock heats were captured by Steve Williams and Emerson Cargain. Jake Mason was victorious in the preliminary for the Junior Slingshots.

New cars and drivers galore were on hand for the evening and included John Woinoski in the Pure Stocks, Bob Tersillo returned to the seat of the Porco Energy sprinter in the NEWS Sprints. Ashton DeWitt, Wyatt Hager and RJ Sherman were new in the Junior Slingshots. Sherman is related to noted retired Modified campaigner Stan Sherman, who competed at OCFS, Accord and Nazareth back in the day. Rookie Sportsman were Chet and Jamie Doolan. Chris Stevens, Austin Smith and Chris Van Duser made their first starts of the season in the Sportsman division.

Defending Pure Stock track champion Bob Sleight was driving the Kanuk Motorsports entry. "Flyin" Brian Malcolm returned to the speedway and had a great run going until a late caution put him to the rear. A few drivers were missing on Friday and hopefully will have their problems sorted out for next Friday's "Salute to the Veterans" event.

Promoter Gary Palmer had the track and the grounds in their usual pristine condition.

As intermission got underway, Announcer Steve Pados brought the Junior Slingshot winner Jake Mason into the tower for an impromptu interview session and the budding driving star handled the questions with ease.

Jonathan McGibbons is the new flagger for 2017 at the speedway

RESULTS:

United Pump & Tank Modifieds: Anthony Perrego, Brad Rothaupt, Danny Tyler, Brian Krummel, Mike Ricci, Jesse Marks, Danny Creeden, Richard Smith, Richie Eurich, Eddie Burgess, Brian Malcolm, Ed Dachenhausen, Scott Ferrier, Jimmy Wells, Tommy Johnson, Joe Judge, Tyler Treacy, Kenny Ferrier, Corey Lowitt

Arkel Motors Sportsman: Tony Kowalchuk, Matt Shultz, Chris Stevens, Tyler Johnston, Cole Hentschel, Kyle Rohner, Jim Johnson, Winter Mead, Brandon McGill, Ralph Ronk, Robbie Knipe, Corey Cormier, Phil Goetchius, Austin Smith, Jimmy Kraus, Mike Murphy, Chris Van Duser, Milton Mann, Nick Johnson, Dave Demorest, Rafael Carson

WRWD Radio NEWS Sprint Cars: Eric Jennings, Larry McVay, Heidi Hedin, Andrew Davis, Bob Tersillo, Don Smith Jr

Upstate Auto Pure Stocks: Travis Brockner, Ray Tarantino,
Emerson Cargain Jr, John Hechinger, Steve Williams, Jimmy Sykes, Livy Johnson, John Woinoski, Harry Bachman, Bob Sleight Jr

WRWD Radio Rookie Sportsman: Anthony Recchio, Hunter Lapp, Kenny Ryder, Kevin Stevens, Bobby Flood, Jake Granacker, RJ Daley, Mike Corbin, Brandon Daley, Chet Doolan, Vinny Visconti, Ryan McCartney, Jimmy Devitt, Jamie Doolan, Fred Smith

Want Ad Digest Junior Slingshots: Jake Mason, Ashton DeWitt, Jaden Sleight, Wyatt Hager, RJ Sherman, Brock Pinkerous

Emmanuels Marketplace 4-Cylinder Enduro: Dave Donovan, Jerry Kinteger, Paul Harding, Gene Helms, Cody DeMarmels

Racing is on tap every Friday night at Accord Speedway from April through September. Please make note of the new starting times: Pit Gates open at 5:00; Spectator Gates open at 5:30; Hot Laps begin at 7:00 and the racing begins at 7:30 PM. Admission for Adults $14.00; Seniors (65+) $12.00; Children $3.00 (11+ under) Indoor Seating $20.00; Family four pack special: 2 Adults + 2 Children and $20.00 in Accord Bucks for $44.00 (a savings of $10.00)

Special event shows do have an increase in admission.

May 26th brings in all regular divisions for action. WRWD Radio 107.3 FM is the headline sponsor for the evening of speed and celebrating with a salute to all Veterans.

For further updates and information regarding all of the news and additions to the Accord Speedway, log on to their well documented website at: www.accordspeedway.com or call the speedway hotline at: 845 626 3478.
At the Accord Speedway............................................

A TRAIL OF DIRT LEADS RIGHT TO OUR DOOR

Accord, NY- "The Statesman" Jerry Higbie Collects Accord Modified Gold; Kyle Rohner Scores Again in Sportsman
By: Steve Pados, Accord Speedway Media

The always unpredictable weather pattern in the Northeast had rain scheduled in the forecast at some point on Friday, but Accord Speedway Promoters Gary and Donna Palmer threw caution to the wind and put on a great show last night at the speedway. A good sized racing crowd came out to witness the spirited action and rain did begin to fall as this writer headed home.

Hard working Accord promoter Gary Palmer continues to work overtime to give his driving roster the best possible racing facility he can and the race to the walls speed channels were a true testament to his dedication to his craft as the speedway offered many racing seams for the drivers to display their speed and guile. The evening was sponsored by HO Penn Machinery and Arkel Motors. The Checkered Flag Bonus was sponsored by Dreaming of the Mouse Travel.

The solid six feature race card found "The Statesman" Jerry Higbie returning to the WRWD Radio Victory Lane for the first time in many seasons after a torrid battle with early leader Ken Ferrier in the United Pump and Tank Modified division. "The Bushkill Bullet" Kyle Rohner made it two in a row after heat problems forced him to qualify through the consolation event and he came through the pack from 18th starting position to claim the win in the Arkel Motors Sportsman division finale. "The Intimidator" Ray Tarantino was fast and then some as he top-sided his way to victory in the Upstate Auto Pure Stock Division feature event. Eric Jennings was lightning fast as he grabbed up his win of the season in the WRWD Radio NEWS Sprint Cars. "The Cold Spring Kid" Jake Mason made it two in a row as claimed the win in the Want AD Digest Junior Slingshots. Stan Vishinski IV captured the WRWD Radio Rookie Sportsman feature event in an event that changed leaders a few times before Vishinski took over the lead for good just before the midway point.

Ken Ferrier and Eddie Burgess brought the United Pump & Tank Modified starting field to the line for the start of the 30-lap main grind. Jimmy Wells shot between the two out of turn two to lead the first laps of the event. A restart brought the field together and Ken Ferrier assumed command of the event. Restarts would bring the field back together with Ferrier now holding on to the slimmest margin of the lead with Jerry Higbie making his presence known to all and pressuring Ferrier at every corner. On lap-26, Higbie found the sweet spot he needed to slip under Ferrier and take command of the event and go on for the win. Ken Ferrier was second in a great run with Jesse Marks finishing third after starting eighth. Scott Ferrier was fourth and Danny Tyler hustled from a 19th place start to claim fifth. Opening night winner Brian Krummel was sixth with Mike Ricci (20th), Ed Dachenhausen, Danny Creeden and Richie Eurich completing the top ten.

The Arkel Motors Sportsman event was a true to life barnburner as a fast field of race cars highlighted another great event. An eight car skirmish at the start would eliminate some cars but when the racing got rolling it was all-go on the speedway. Nick Plumstead would lead the event through the first ten laps until Phil Goetchius and he got together sending both to the rear. Kyle Rohner inherited the lead and would work his own brand of magic through slower traffic towards the end of the event to claim his second win in a row at Accord in 2017. Jimmy Johnson was the runner-up with Jared LaBagh, Tyler Johnston and Winter Mead completing the top five. Heading up the second five were the returning Daniel Morgiewicz, Greg McCloskey, Brandon McGill, Robbie Knipe and Tony Kowalchuk.

Eric Jennings led all fifteen laps of the WRWD Radio NEWS Sprint Car division to claim his first Accord Speedway win of the season. Newcomer Larry McVay was second with Heidi Hedin third, Corey Wood fourth, Don Smith Jr fifth.

Jake Mason made it two in a row in the Want AD Digest Junior Slingshot event with a solid run over Tyler Banks. Jaden Sleight was third and newcomer Brock Pinkerous was fourth.

The Upstate Auto Pure Stock main event began with Ray Tarantino seizing command of the event on the first lap and driving to an easy win in the 15-lap feature. Emerson Cargain Jr was the runner-up with Travis Brockner third, John Hechinger fourth and Steve Williams completing the top five. Livy Johnson, Harry Bachman, Jimmy Sykes and Steve Kanuk followed.

The WRWD Radio Rookie Sportsman feature found Ryan McCartney leading the way for the first five laps. He gave way to Jimmy Devitt who would lead the next two circuits. Stan Vishinski took over the lead on lap eight and would go to victory despite many challenges coming from Kenny Ryder. Ryder wound up second with McCartney third, Chris VanDuser fourth and Tighe Sherlock completing the top five. Hunter Lapp, newcomer Fred Smith, RJ Daley, Chad Jashembowski and Anthony Recchio completed the top ten.

Gemstones:

Heat winners for the evening included Jake Mason in the Junior Slingshots. Heidi Hedin captured the Sprint heat. Emerson Cargain and Ray Tarantino scored wins in the Pure Stock division. The Sportsman ranks found Phil Goetchius, Nick Plumstead and Rich Ricci III scoring victories. Enjoying wins in the Modified heats were Jimmy Wells, Jerry Higbie and Jesse Marks. Rookie heats went to Anthony Recchio and Tighe Sherlock. Two B-Mains were run with Danny Tyler winning the Modified and Robbie Knipe claiming the Sportsman.

New cars on hand included Jerry Higbie, Mark Pullen, Don Smith III and Robbie Rowe in the Modifieds. Daniel Morgiewicz, Mike Senecal, Dave Demorest, Jared LaBagh, Lem Atkins, Greg McCloskey, Brad Horton and Robbie Knipe made their first starts of the season in the Sportsman ranks. Tyler Banks, who has been running well at Hamlin and Brock Pinkerous made their first starts in the Junior Slingshots. Chad Jashembowski, Vinny Visconti, RJ Daley, Fred Smith, Jake Granaker, Brandon Daley, Chris VanDuser and Stan Vishinski made their first rookie starts. James Maroney, Don Smith and Larry McVay were new additions to the Sprint division.

A tip of the fedora to Promoter Gary Palmer for having the speedway groomed to perfection for the evening of speed. The track was racy from top to bottom and three and four wide racing were commonplace throughout the night.

HO Penn Machinery brought out a couple of pieces of equipment so the fans could see what they are all about. They also raffled off a garage stool and had giveaway items for the fans.

Many thanks to Mike DuBois and Randy Brundage for working on the caution lights prior to the racing action.

Happy Birthday wishes go out to "The Gentleman" Ed Dachenhausen

The Grandma Anne's Pies were back in the house and all feature winners and two lucky fans were the recipients.

RESULTS:

United Pump & Tank Modifieds: Jerry Higbie, Ken Ferrier, Jesse Marks, Scott Ferrier, Danny Tyler, Brian Krummel, Mike Ricci, Ed Dachenhausen, Danny Creeden, Richie Eurich, Joe Judge, Robbie Rowe, Anthony Perrego, Richard Smith, Brad Rothaupt, Jimmy Wells, Dan Humes, Eddie Burgess, Tommy Johnson, Chad Loidice, Kyle Van Duser

Arkel Motors Sportsman: Kyle Rohner, Jimmy Johnson, Jared LaBagh, Tyler Johnston, Winter Mead, Daniel Morgiewicz, Greg McCloskey, Brandon McGill, Robbie Knipe, Tony Kowalchuk, Collin DuBois, Cole Hentschel, Jim Kraus, Nick Plumstead, Phil Goetchius, Rich Ricci III, Nick Johnson, Milton Mann, Brad Horton

WRWD Radio NEWS Sprint Cars: Eric Jennings, Larry McVay, Heidi Hedin, Corey Wood, Don Smith Jr, James Maroney, Andrew Davis

Upstate Auto Pure Stocks: Ray Tarantino, Emerson Cargain Jr, Travis Brockner, John Hechinger, Steve Williams, Livy Johnson, Harry Bachman, Jimmy Sykes, Steve Kanuk

WRWD Radio Rookie Sportsman: Stan Vishinski, Kenny Ryder, Ryan McCartney, Chris Van Duser, Tighe Sherlock, Hunter Lapp, Fred Smith, RJ Daley, Chad Jashembowski, Anthony Recchio, Jake Granaker, Jimmy Devitt, Vinny Visconti

Want Ad Digest Junior Slingshots: Jake Mason, Tyler Banks, Jaden Sleight, Brock Pinkerous

Racing is on tap every Friday night at Accord Speedway from April through September. Please make note of the new starting times: Pit Gates open at 5:00; Spectator Gates open at 5:30; Hot Laps begin at 7:00 and the racing begins at 7:30 PM. Admission for Adults $14.00; Seniors (65+) $12.00; Children $3.00 (11+ under) Indoor Seating $20.00; Family four pack special: 2 Adults + 2 Children and $20.00 in Accord Bucks for $44.00 (a savings of $10.00)

Special event shows do have an increase in admission.

May 19th brings all regular divisions in action. PowderTech is the headline sponsor for the evening of speed. The second Enduro Event will take place on the 19th sponsored by Emmanuel's Marketplace

For further updates and information regarding all of the news and additions to the Accord Speedway, log on to their well documented website at: www.accordspeedway.com or call the speedway hotline at: 845 626 3478.
At the Accord Speedway............................................

A TRAIL OF DIRT LEADS RIGHT TO OUR DOOR

Accord, NY- "BK Speed" Brian Krummel Captures Exciting Opening Night Accord Speedway Modified Win
By: Steve Pados, Accord Speedway Media

The Catskills Mountains of New York State finally sprung back to life Friday evening as the the sounds of race cars and the mighty cheering of happy fans opened up the Accord Speedway for the 2017 racing season. Promoters Gary and Donna Palmer ushered in the long-awaited season opener at their pristine racing facility located in the area once known as the "Borscht Belt." The speedway opened last evening to a cast of familiar and new driving stars and these stars offered high speed action with daredevil skills on a race track like no other found on the entire East Coast. A great opening night crowd delayed the opening but once inside they witnessed seven race divisions on a day that was excellent weather wise throughout the evening. The racing action was sponsored by Fast Signs of Kingston, New York www.fastsigns.com and Mombaccus Excavating www.mombaccussandandgravel.com

Capturing opening night wins at the speedway were "BK Speed" Brian Krummel in the United Pump & Tank Modifieds, "The Bushkill Bullet" Kyle Rohner in the Arkel Motors Sportsman, Bob Sleight Upstate Auto Pure Stocks, "The Radical One" Thomas Radivoy in the WRWD Radio NEWS Sprint Cars, "The Cold Spring Kid" Jake Mason in the Want Ad Digest Junior Slingshots and "The Jersey Force" Anthony Recchio in the WRWD Radio Rookie Sportsman and Johnny Bankich in the Emmanuel's Marketplace 4-Cylinder Enduro main event.

Brian Krummel and the returning "Statesman" Jerry Higbie brought the starting field to the green flag for the start of the 30-lap Modified headliner. Higbie wasted no time in blasting to the front of the pack with Krummel in hot pursuit. Higbie blasted off of the top of the raceway like a man possessed only to pull to the infield before ten laps were completed with motors troubles. Krummel inherited the lead and would go on to capture the opening win with "Iron" Mike Ricci in hot pursuit for much of the event finishing second. Local ace "Little Richard" Smith was third with a great strong run while the unheralded "Concrete Kid" Kyle Van Duser was equally as strong in fourth place and "The Chairman of the Board" Rich Ricci racing from 22nd starting spot to round out the top five in a splendid driver to the front. Danny Creeden was sixth with invader Brian Malcolm seventh, Danny Tyler eighth from 21st, Anthony Perrego ninth and Richie Eurich finishing tenth.

The Arkel Motors Sportsman feature headliner found a pole start and a fast hot rod the instant formula for success as Kyle Rohner grabbed the lead at the start of the event raced away at will from the rest of the field as he captured his opening night win. Rohner, a former two time champion at Accord, showed the right stuff with a strong run to the win with "The Otisville Outlaw" Corey Cormier finding runner-up honors. Milton Mann was strong all night and finished third while Brandon McGill hustled from 16th starting place to finish fourth with Tony Kowalchuk returning to action and finishing fifth. Jim Johnson, Collin DuBois, Leo Fotopolous, Winter Mead and Tyler Johnston completed the top ten.

Bob Sleight led all laps to triumph in the Upstate Auto Pure Stock feature race. While Sleight led all of the laps, Steve Williams kept it interesting throughout the event as he challenged for most of the event only to have Livy Johnson slip past him late in the race to capture runner-up honors. Williams would finish a hard fought third place with Travis Brockner fourth and Jim Maher completing the top five. Newcomer John Hechinger, Ray Tarantino, Emerson Cargain Jr, Jay Smalley and Chris Kanuk completing the top ten.

The Want Ad Digest Junior Slingshots found Jake Mason wiring the field as he led all laps on his way to victory. Jayden Sleight Was the runner-up.

The WRWD Radio NEWS Sprint Cars found Eric Jennings leading for two laps before Thomas Radivoy found the sweet line at the top of the raceway to pull even and then go past Jennings. Jennings would keep it close throughout with much pressure also coming from Keystone State star Heidi Hedin. Radivoy would earn his first career win at Accord with Jennings second, Hedin third while "The Breadman" Corey Wood was fourth and Brett Graham completed the top five.

The WRWD Rookie Sportsman field was a good one and even though the attrition rate was a bit high on opening night, there is a good deal of talented future stars in the group. The night belonged to Anthony Recchio as the high school student lead all laps to capture his first win at Accord. Recchio was coming off a win on the previous Saturday night at the Hamlin Speedway. "The Flash" Bobby Flood kept pace throughout the event to finish second with Kenny Ryder third, Hunter Lapp fourth, and returning from a ten year layoff Jimmy Devitt was fifth.

A new winner graced victory lane in the Emmanuel's Marketplace Enduro showdown. Dave Donovan had things going his way up until the white flag lap when Johhny Bankich overhauled him and led the final lap to claim the popular victory. Donovan was second with Paul Harding, Jeff DeGroat and Cody Helms completing the top five.

GEMSTONES:

Heat winners for the opening night event included Kyle Rohner, Milton Mann and Cole Hentschel in the Sportsman division. Pure Stock heats were won by Bob Sleight and Steve Williams. Three heats were needed to set the field for the Modified division with Brian Krummel, Jerry Higbie and Richard Smith claiming wins while the consolation win went to Chad Loidice. In the Junior Slingshot heat it was Jake Mason in for the win. Eric Jennings capture the lone heat in sprint car action. Rookie Sportsman heats were claimed by Bobby Flood and Anthony Recchio

The start of the event was delayed for a few minutes to allow the crowd a chance to find their way to their seats in a solid opening night event for the speedway and the Palmer Family. The Palmer Family is celebrating their seventeenth anniversary as the owners and promoters of the Accord facility.

The Accord concession stands were at full tilt as the hardworking staff busted their humps to cover the hungry racing crowd that came out to support the speedway.

The speedway itself was in spectacular condition as Promoter Gary Palmer spent the entire week in working his magic on the multi-channeled raceway that saw three and four wide action throughout the evening of events. All of the drivers offered their praises for the well groomed facility.

Many new cars and paint schemes were the order of the day for the pit area that bustled all evening long. Eleven time Accord Modified Champion Rich Ricci Jr was back in action and Allison Ricci was on board for opening night. Sportsman Champion "Jammin" Jimmy Wells moved into the Modified division but suffered from a lost wheel early on in the feature event. Bob Tersillo, Corey Wood and winner Thomas Radivoy were all new faces for the sprints while Brett Graham, a Modified campaigner at Accord is trying the sprint division with a non traditional look racer. It was good to see "Tommy Gun" Tommy Johnson return to the Modifieds. While running well, he too felt the mechanical gremlins and fell from the event. It was nice return to action for Jay Smalley in the Pure Stocks while new faces included Tanner Granaker and John Hechinger. Rookie Sportsman newcomers found former regulars Jimmy Devitt and Tom Vasta returning to the racing wars while Hunter Lapp, the defending Junior Slingshot Champ, finishing fourth in his new division.

All in all it was a great opening night event. Grandma Annie's pies were distributed to all of the feature winners.

RESULTS:

United Pump & Tank Modifieds: Brian Krummel, Mike Ricci, Richard Smith, Kyle Van Duser, Rich Ricci Jr, Danny Creeden, Brian Malcolm, Danny Tyler, Anthony Perrego, Richie Eurich, Scott Ferrier, Ed Dachenhausen, Jesse Marks, Joe Judge, Allison Ricci, Dan Humes, Chad Loidice, Brad Rothaupt, Tommy Johnson, Corey Lowitt, Jerry Higbie, Jimmy Wells, Ken Ferrier (DNQ), Kevin Krom (DNQ), Eddie Burgess (DNQ), Tyler Treacy (DNQ)

Arkel Motors Sportsman: Kyle Rohner, Corey Cormier, Milton Mann, Brandon McGill, Tony Kowalchuk, Jim Johnson, Collin DuBois, Leo Fotopolous, Winter Mead, Tyler Johnston, Jim Kraus, Cole Hentschel, Matt Shultz, Nick Johnson, Mike Murphy, Ralph Ronk, Phil Goetchius, Rich Ricci III, Nick Plumstead, Rafael Carson, Mike DuBois

WRWD Radio NEWS Sprint Cars: Thomas Radivoy, Eric Jennings, Heidi Hedin, Corey Wood, Brett Graham, Andrew Davis, Bob Tersillo

Upstate Auto Pure Stocks: Bob Sleight, Livy Johnson, Steve Williams, Travis Brockner, Jim Maher, John Hechinger, Emerson Cargain Jr, Jay Smalley, Chris Kanuk, Harry Bachman, Jimmy Sykes, Tanner Granaker

WRWD Radio Rookie Sportsman: Anthony Recchio, Bobby Flood, Kenny Ryder, Hunter Lapp, Jimmy Devitt, Michael Corbin, Tom Vasta, Tighe Sherlock, Sarah Smith, Kevin Stevens, Mike Dubois Jr, Ryan McCartney

Want Ad Digest Junior Slingshots: Jake Mason, Jaden Sleight

Emmanuel's Marketplace Fireball 4-Cylinder Enduro: Johnny Bankich, Dave Donovan, Paul Harding, Jeff DeGroat, Cody Helms

Racing is on tap every Friday night at Accord Speedway from April through September. Please make note of the new starting times: Pit Gates open at 5:00; Spectator Gates open at 5:30; Hot Laps begin at 7:00 and the racing begins at 7:30 PM. Admission for Adults $14.00; Seniors (65+) $12.00; Children $3.00 (11+ under) Indoor Seating $20.00; Family four pack special: 2 Adults + 2 Children and $20.00 in Accord Bucks for $44.00 (a savings of $10.00)

Special event shows do have an increase in admission.

May 5th brings in all regular divisions in action. HO Penn is the headline sponsor for the evening of speed.

For further updates and information regarding all of the news and additions to the Accord Speedway, log on to their well documented website at: http://www.accordspeedway.com or call the speedway hotline at: 845 626 3478.
At the Accord Speedway............................................

A TRAIL OF DIRT LEADS RIGHT TO OUR DOOR

Accord, NY- "The Chairman Of The Board" Rich Ricci Dominates King Of The Catskills At Accord Speedway
By: Steve Pados, Accord Speedway Media

The Ulster County weather was perfectly warm and breezy, the Accord Speedway was in top form and a great roster of drivers and a standing room only crowd proved to be a win/win for Promoters Gary and Donna Palmer to host their annual King of the Catskills event at the speedway. Working right up until race time, Gary Palmer had the pristine quarter mile clay speedplant in impeccable condition and the attention to detail enabled the stout field of Modified and Sportsman competitors to race wall to wall throughout the evening of racing events. The evening of speed was headlined by sponsor Bruce Insinger and his Insinger Fuel Team. Check them out on the web at: www.insingerperformance.com

When all was said and done, Modified short track specialist "The Chairman of the Board" Rich Ricci jumped on the talented Modified field at the drop of the green flag and never looked back as he dominated the racing action in a wire to wire triumph at the speedway. The win for Ricci was his fourth King of the Catskills triumph and Ricci walked away with the $5,000.00 prize that went along with it. In the Healey Brothers Group Sportsman Joe Giachinta Memorial 30-lap shootout, Chris Stevens led only the final turn and one half to nip Corey Cormier at the finish line to capture the win and the $1,500.00 pay day that awaited him in the Lucas Oil Products Victory Lane. In the Nightcap for the Emmanuel's Marketplace Fireball Four Cylinder Enduros, George Zeininger continued his mastery over the rest of the Enduro field to go on and win his third Enduro event of the season and with the win walk away with a hefty haul of money.

Twenty-four of some of the finest Modifieds on the East Coast today took off in a run for the roses in the King of the Catskills headliner with Rich Ricci wasting no time to blast out into the lead. Pole Sitter Jeff Strunk followed and stayed close early in the event. A few early skirmishes dropped some quality talent from the field as Danny Creeden, Anthony Perrego, Joey Grammes and Mike Colsten were some of the early casualties. On each restart Ricci was able to get the great starts and by the midpoint of the event had stepped away from the field.

Things were beginning to heat up as Mike Ricci made a run for the front and Jimmy Horton was working the baseline of the speedway as if he were on rails. Mike Ricci slipped past Strunk and a few laps later Horton was able to do the same. Tommy Meier, Andy Bachetti, Brian Krummel and Nick Rochinski were in the hunt as well and after forty laps things began to change rapidly in the make-up of the event. Mike Ricci raced into second place only to lose the spot a few laps later to Jimmy Horton who had gotten past Strunk. Tommy Meier came back to life as slipped by Bachetti. Horton closed the distance on Rich Ricci quickly and they were nose to tail on lap-48. Horton slowed for a slower car in front of him and seemed to lose a bit of momentum. The final ten laps found Rich Ricci uncontested as he drove to a convincing win in a dominating effort for the New Paltz, New York resident. Jimmy Horton began his drive to the front from eleventh starting place and did a great job of mastering the baseline of the speedway for runner-up honors. Mike Ricci was third with a real strong run. Jeff Strunk, the defending champion of the event in 2015, ran a strong fourth and Tommy Meier completed the top five finishers. Brian Krummel headed up the second five with Andy Bachetti seventh, Nick Rochinski eighth, Donnie Elliott ninth and Danny Tyler completing the top ten. Ricci turned the fastest time during the event with a 13.184 second clocking and Strunk was right behind with a 13.386 time.

Aaron Doolittle and Joe Conklin made up the front row for the Sportsman main event named in honor of the late Joe Giachinta. Giachinta was a true gentleman and friend of the speedway and lost his life in an industrial accident last November. Conklin outhustled Doolittle for the point and led the first five laps until Kenny Hinsch used the bottom of the speedway to get past him. The next time around would prove the undoing of Conklin as a skirmish removed him to the sidelines. Hinsch would lead the way until lap seventeen as Corey Cormier went topside to take command of the event and Hinsch would meet the inside barrier and be done for the evening.

On the restart it would Cormier showing the way with Chris Stevens taking up the chase from 14th starting position. Cormier was back at the top of the speedway and as the leaders came upon slower traffic, Stevens was working the bottom to erase any lead Cormier had built up. Slower traffic would come into play quickly as a pack of cars were running together and Cormier went to the top to slip past them. As the white flag flew Cormier and Stevens were nose to tail and dodging traffic left and right. As they reached turn three, Cormier went to the top and Stevens went to the baseline with Stevens sliding up and Cormier driving down and the two cars touched and it would be Stevens just nipping Cormier for the win.

Joey Bruning from 13th starting position would finish third with Tyler Johnston fourth and Allison Ricci from 17th completing the top five. The second five were steady Milton Mann, Daniel Morgiewicz, Chris Lynch, Nick Plumstead and Phil Goetchius. Corey Cormier turned the fastest lap when he clocked 13.557 seconds.

The veteran campaigner George Zeininger wasted no time in charging to the front in the 50-lap Emmanuel's Marketplace Fireball Four Cylinder Enduro excursion. Zeininger, who captured two wins earlier in the 2016 season and the defending champion of the event last year, had himself a stout race car and was able to drive away from the field and go on to victory. Former Street Stock campaigner Gene Helms has found a new place to race with the Enduros as he enjoyed a solid run for runner-up honors. Johnny Bankich paced himself throughout the event and finished just behind Helms for third place money.

GEMSTONES:

The showcased event of the season at Accord for the Palmer Family was another spectacular event for the successful promotional team now in their 16th season at operating their Ulster County facility. The racing was superb as every Modified and Sportsman heat resembled a mini feature event. The standing room only crowd came from far and wide with as many as twelve states representing the statewide support of the tremendous racing activity. Parking was at a premium and the grounds were abuzz with excitement for the long awaited evening of racing at the "Gem in the Catskills". The turnstiles of fans filled the concession areas all night long as they devoured the great cuisine offered up by the speedway concessions.

41 Modifieds made their way to the pit area along with 39 sportsman and 31 Four Cylinder Enduros. Five heats were needed for the Modifieds with Joey Grammes, Ed Dachenhausen, Brian Krummel, Mike Ricci and Nick Petrilak scoring wins. The Sportsman division cars also ran five heats with Aaron Doolittle, Joe Conklin, Corey Cormier, Brandon McGill and Tyler Boniface capturing the wins. Three B-Mains were needed for the Modifieds with Danny Creeden, Brain Malcolm and Danny Tyler collecting the wins. Three Sportsman B-Mains were needed and won by Leo Fotopolous, Jimmy Johnson and Rich Ricci III.

Both divisions were in abundance with drivers on this evening and many did not make the final transfer into the feature and the speedway management would like to thank everyone for making a fine effort to get into the lineup. Brad Szulewski, Ken Ferrier, Mike Butler, Bobby Trapper, Bob Hentschel, Chris Shultz, Chuck McKee, Kurt Hundeland, Danny Kronk, Brett Graham, Ray See, Richard Smith, Ed Burgess, Brad Rothaupt and Joe Judge. Sportsman drivers included Jamie Yannone, Vinnie Gress, Stan Vishinski, Mike Murphy, Ryan McCartney, Phil Johnson, Jim Introne, Kyle Rohner, Mark Connolly, Matt Shultz, Dave Demorest and Travis Codswell.

Grandma Annies Pies were back in victory lane last evening courtesy of Liggan Insurance, Wright's Farm Market, Rosendale Farmers Market and Cousin Pete Donohue.

Condolences go out to the Tyler Racing Team as Mike Edwards, the longtime crew chief for Doug Tyler, passed away during the past week.

"Uncle" Mike Hansen from WRWD Radio 107.3 FM was back in the house and once again enjoyed the show as he helped out with commentary throughout the evening.

The Giachinta Family was at the speedway and presented the Joe Giachinta Cup to the winner Chris Stevens.

Speedway management thanks all of our drivers and fans for a great season at the speedway.

Halloween Havoc is next up on the Accord Speedway schedule. The date is October 29th with a full itinerary of racing and fun things for the families of racing to enjoy. Hay Rides, Balloon Sculpturing, Pumpkin Painting, Kid's Costume Parade, Bike Raffle Give-a-ways courtesy of Upstate Auto and just a part of some great fall fun.

RESULTS:

United Pump and Tank Modifieds: (60 laps $5,000.00) Rich Ricci, Jimmy Horton, Mike Ricci, Jeff Strunk, Tommy Meier, Brian Krummel, Andy Bachetti, Nick Rochinski, Donnie Elliott, Danny Tyler, Scott Ferrier, Jesse Marks, Nick Petrilak, Rob Rowe, Brian Malcolm, Ed Dachenhausen, Richie Eurich, Joey Grammes, Danny Creeden, Anthony Perrego, Jimmy Wells, Bobby Trapper Jr, Mike Colsten, Mike Kolka

Healey Brothers Sportsman: (30 Laps $1,500.00) Chris Stevens, Corey Cormier, Joey Bruning, Tyler Johnston, Allison Ricci, Milton Mann, Daniel Morgiewicz, Chris Lynch, Nick Plumstead, Phil Goetchius, Troy Arnold, Ralph Ronk, Jimmy Johnson, Brandon McGill, Leo Fotopolous, Connor Otten, Rich Ricci III, Jim Kraus, Frank Venezia, Brad Horton, Robbie Knipe, Jimmy Wells, Kenny Hinsch, Tyler Boniface, Joe Conklin, Aaron Doolittle

Emmanuel's Marketplace Fireball Four Cylinder Enduros: George Zeininger, Gene Helms, Johnny Bankich

Racing every Friday night from April through September.
Saturday, October 29th finds the speedway swinging back into action for the Halloween Havoc spectacular at the speedway sponsored by the Liggin's Insurance Agency. More information regarding the event will follow.

For more information regarding the great racing action found at the Accord Speedway, call the speedway hotline at: 845 626 3478 or log-on to their newly designed and well documented website at: http://www.accordspeedway.com We are easy to find at 299 Whitfield Road, two miles off Route 209. At the Accord Speedway..................................

A Trail Of Dirt Leads Right To Our Door

Accord, NY- All Systems Go For The King Of The Catskills September 16th At Accord Speedway
By: Steve Pados, Accord Speedway Media

Accord Speedway is coming off a very successful last weekend in which six division champions were named for the 2016 racing season and a spectacular patriotic intermission tribute absolutely rocked the house. The Accord Speedway management team has the "House in order" in preparing for the biggest event of the season at the speedway. Promoters Gary and Donna Palmer and staff have burned the midnight oil and have been working hard to greet the participants who will be working their magic on the Accord clay. The highly anticipated evening of racing excitement and the expected huge crowd will have the opportunity to see many of their favorite stars in action on the pristine, semi-banked quarter mile speedplant on September 16th. Gary Palmer will attend to his duties with an all-out effort in giving the combatants a moist and tacky track surface they can race from wall to wall throughout the evening. The action on the speedway will be brisk and it will be thrill a second when the King of the Catskills event is unleashed. Donna Palmer and her staff will work their magic with great attention to detail from ticket sales to the food concessions as the well noted kitchen at Accord has been serving up great cuisine all season long. The weekend of racing excitement is sponsored by Bruce Insinger and his Insinger Fuel and Performance Team.

The Friday night show in 2016 will bring in three divisions of hot rod racers and all with special events to try their hand at winning some high paying dollars on the quarter mile, clay cushioned speedway. The evening will bring in the King of the Catskills 60 lap event Modified event that will pay $5,000.00 to the first driver under the checkered flag at the end of 60 laps of the hard driving excitement.

Accord Speedway offers some great in-house driving talent as the newly crowned United Pump and Tank track champion, "The Montgomery Missile" Anthony Perrego will be out to defend his turf as the 2016 speedway champion. "Iron" Mike Ricci, who scored two wins during the season and fell just a few points short of the 2016 title, is a master of the short track real estate and will be well prepared for the event. "The DC Express" Danny Creeden, has enjoyed a great season at Accord as has "Showtime" Danny Tyler. The brothers Ferrier, "Primetime" Scott Ferrier and "The KF Flyer" Kenny Ferrier, "The Iceman" Dom Roselli, "The Legend" Richie Eurich, "Double J" Joe Judge, "The Rhinebeck Rocket" Brad Rothaupt, Jesse Marks, Brett Graham, Mark Pullen, Ed Dachenhausen and Corey Lowitt and bolstered late in the season with the addition of Mike Butler, Donnie Elliott, Chuck and Tyler McKee, Bobby Hentschel, Ray See Jr and Ed Burgess.

Defending King of the Catskills winner "The Bechtelsville Bullet" Jeff Strunk has informed speedway management he will be back to defend the crown. Strunk is coming off one of his greatest triumphs in his illustrious career last Saturday night when he captured the coveted "Freedom 76" event at the Grandview Speedway to the tune of $25,000.00. Strunk will be aboard the powerful Glenn Hyneman owned 126 for the event. Jeff will face plenty of opposition as New Jersey racing legend Jimmy Horton will come into the event flying the colors of the Orange County Fair Speedway where he captured an earlier qualifier for the event. Orange County Speedway Big Block Modified and 358 Modified Champion Tommy Meier will be in competition at Accord on Friday. "The Wild Child" Andy Bachetti is coming off a superb season in which he captured the 2016 I-88 Speedway track championship and will be making a return to the speedway for the event. Bachetti is a two-time track champion at Accord and a past winner of the King of the Catskills. "Flyin" Brian Malcolm, "The Shohola Slingshot" Brad Szulweski, "The Speed Trap" Bobby Trapper, Bobby Trapper Jr, Jeff Rudalavage and many are expected in for this event.

The Healey Brothers Group Sportsman will be in action and pointing towards a $1,500.00 prize as the speedway offers a memorial event to one of the truly good guys in racing, Joe Giachinta. Joe lost his life last year in an industrial accident after the season ended but was instrumental in assisting the Accord Speedway with his innovative Redi Rock International concrete blocks that make up the speedway retaining barriers from turn three all of the way into turn one. Joe competed at Accord since 2003 and his missing name on the driving roster is heart breaking to everyone who knew him. Joe assisted with the career of "Jumpin" John McGill and followed up by helping Sportsman racer Brandon McGill and Junior Slingshot racer Jake Mason. All those who have come in contact with Joe Giachinta knew he was a great guy from the first Hello. He is truly missed by his family and his family of friends from the Accord Speedway.

The new crowned Sportsman track champion "Jammin" Jimmy Wells will head up a top flight contingent of drivers seeking to pull off the big win. Wells earned ten wins during the season in his Backwoods Blends/Rycor HVAC sponsored racer to earn his first track title at Accord. Plenty of competition will arrive to try to tip Wells off his pedestal and included in the group are track regulars Phil Goetchius, Chris Stevens, Corey Cormier, Ralph Ronk, Connor Otten, Brandon McGill, Nick Johsnon Dave Demorest and Nick Plumstead. Joey Bruning, "Mr Excitement" Kevin Ward, Milton Mann, Tyler Johnston, Jim Introne, Brad Cicio, Mike Senecal and last season's winner of the event, "The K-Man" Robbie Knipe, who has raced on a limited schedule this season. Winter Mead, who captured a win last season, has been working the gremlins out of her racer the past few weeks.

Former two-time speedway champion "The Bushkill Bullet" Kyle Rohner has signed on for the event. Rohner is coming off a season in which he captured the Five Mile Point Sportsman title.

The thrill a second Emmanuel's Marketplace Fireball Four Cylinder Enduro gang will also be on the race card. One hundred laps of racing on the Accord clay will determine the winner of the $2,000.00 prize offered up by the speedway. There have been five events in 2016 with George Zeininger winning the first two events. Dave Donovan captured the next two features and was on his way to a third win until fuel woes placed him on the sidelines. Derek Delaney would go on to win the feature and all three winners are expected back for the big money event.

Racing is on tap every Friday night from April through September. The King of the Catskills event is this week for the speedway on Friday evening, September 16th. Pit Gates will open at 5:00; Spectator Gates open at 5:30; Hot Laps are at 7:00 and the racing begins at 7:30 PM. Admission at the gate for the spectacular show is Adults $24.00 Seniors $22.00 (12+) Children $5.00 (11+ under) Reserved Indoor Seating $30.00; Family four pack special: 2 Adults + 2 Children and $20.00 in Food Vouchers for $68.00 (a savings of $10.00)

The always spectacular King of the Catskills weekend lands on Friday evening at the speedway. The date is September 16th with a rain date in place for September 23th. The multi-division show will feature the United Pump and Tank Modifieds in a 60 lap feature attraction with $5,000.00 on the line for the winner and presented by Insinger Fuel and Performance. The Joe Giachinta Memorial for the Sportsman division will offer a $1,500.00 to win prize and the Emmanuel's Markeplace Fireball Four Cylinder Enduros will duke it out for $2,000.00 for the winner.

For further updates and information regarding all of the news and additions to the Accord Speedway, log on to their very well documented website at: http://.accordspeedway.com or call the speedway hotline at: 845 626 3478. At the Accord Speedway............................................

A TRAIL OF DIRT LEADS RIGHT TO OUR DOOR