Archive for Grandview Speedway
JEFF STRUNK WINS FREEDOM 76, 50TH ANNUAL, FOR THE EIGHTH TIME AT GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY
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NEWS FROM ROGERS FAMILY GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY, Bechtelsville, PA
Presenting Saturday night NASCAR stock car racing plus a variety of special events. Our 58th consecutive season.
Track office: General Manager: Tina Rogers@ 610.754.7688 - Public relations: Ernie Saxton: Email: Esaxton144@aol.com – Cell phone: 267.934.7286
Results by Vicki Gehris
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JEFF STRUNK EARNS POT OF GOLD WITH 8TH FREEDOM 76 VICTORY IN THE 50TH ANNUAL EVENT
BECHTELSVILLE, PA September 20, 2020 . . . It seems as if Jeff Strunk rises to the top in big money paying events. Saturday night in the 50th Annual Freedom 76, a 76-lap Modified race started by the late promoter Bruce Rogers in 1971, the 10 time T.P.Trailers NASCAR track Modified point champion held true to form performing in front of a huge crowd. A fierce battle with guaranteed starter Brett Kressley, winner of the Forrest Rogers Memorial, started on the 37th lap after Strunk reeled him in and it wasn’t until the 64th lap that Strunk actually succeeded in becoming the fourth different leader.
Positions were constantly changing until the wave of the checkered when Strunk prevailed as the winner for the eighth time earning a $35,550 payday. He also garnered extra lap money in addition to a Bob Hilbert jacket. Chasing him across the line were N.Y. invader Matt Sheppard and defending race winner and former point champion Mike Gular.
Polesitter Briggs Danner set the pace for one lap before Bobby Varin overtook him.
Within a few laps Varin opened daylight over his fellow competitors. The battle for second brewed between Danner, Brandon Grosso and Sheppard while Lauden Reimert, Richie Hitzler, 2020 Modified point champion Craig Von Dohren and Cory Merkel diced for the remaining positions.
Merkel’s night ended when he hit the third turn wall for the first caution on the 13th lap. Varin maintained the lead on the restart with Grosso now second.
Strunk advanced to the runner-up spot on the 18th lap restart needed when Mike Maresca spun in the first turn allowing him challenge Varin.
Von Dohren’s night was over early when he jumped the cushion in turn three and hit the wall finally coming to a stop in the second turn for the 22nd lap caution. Varin was still the leader when action resumed, but it was Kressley in pursuit of the leader.
Kressley passed Varin on the 26th lap and second through fifth was now comprised of Varin, Strunk, Sheppard and Gular.
It wasn’t until the 31st lap that Strunk motored into second again and set his sights on Kressley, who was on the move from 20th.
The yellow was flying again for Ryan Lilick on the 38th lap when he stopped along the backstretch. At this time a fuel stop was called for the four cars of Danner, Justin Grim, Keith Hoffman and Dave Dissinger that were running alcohol and could not last the distance. The majority of competitors had switched to gas. On the restart Strunk took the lead, but it was short-lived since Kressley was back on top the following lap around the 1/3-mile oval.
Kressley ran the outside lane while Strunk stuck to the low groove as the battle progressed with each driver determined to be first.
It wasn’t until the 64th lap that Strunk, who started 12th, put the Glenn Hyneman-owned Bicknell chassis No. 126 in the number one position.
Sheppard and Gular passed Kressley for second and third respectively with five laps to go when Kressley fell to fourth.
Strunk continued his pace to chalk up his second win of the season at Grandview with the last one coming August 15, 2020. Second through fifth were Sheppard, Gular, Kressley and Varin. Rounding out the top ten were Duane Howard, who had to get into the race through the Schaeffer Racing Minuteman 20; Ryan Godown, Stewart Friesen coming from last in the 32-car grid following a quick pit stop prior to the start; Reimert and Frank Cozze.
Andy Bachetti, Merkel, Godown, Frank Yankowski, Anthony Perrego and Lilick won the six 12-lap heats for the close to 70 cars that attempted to qualify. Ray Swinehart and Billy Pauch Jr. won the consies to enter the Minuteman 20.
The non-stop Minuteman 20, the last chance to get into the Freedom that qualified five cars was won by Maresca followed by Howard, Max McLaughlin, Keith Hoffman and Ryan Krachun.
The $1,000 to win Kirsten Snyder Web Design and Photography 10-lap Cash Dash went to Godown.
Howard was the recipient of the $500 Hard Charger award from Bobby Gunther and sponsors. Howard went from 29th to sixth for 23 positions.
Next event coming up, now that the very successful Freedom 76 weekend is complete, is the Mods at the Mad House on Saturday, October 17th. Included will be three 20-lap features for Small Block/Big Block Modified racers each paying $2000 to win. A driver winning all three earns a Pioneer Pole Building Triple Sweep Bonus of $2500. And if someone falls short of the three wins and claims two wins there is a PPB Double Sweep Bonus of $500. And for the Sportsman racers there is $1,300 to win their feature. Details can be found at www.grandviewspeedway.com.
RACE RESULTS
50TH ANNUAL FREEDOM 76 (76-Laps): 1. Jeff Strunk, 2. Matt Sheppard, 3. Mike Gular, 4. Brett Kressley, 5. Bobby Varin, 6. Duane Howard, 7. Ryan Godown, 8. Stewart Freisen, 9. Louden Reimert, 10. Frank Cozze, 11. Kevin Hirthler, 12. Jared Umbenhauer, 13. Briggs Danner, 14. Mike Maresca, 15. Andy Bachetti, 16. Danny Bouc, 17. Dylan Swinehart, 18. Ryan Lilick, 19. Justin Grim, 20. John Willman, 21. Dave Dissinger, 22. Max McLaughlin, 23. Frank Yankowski, 24. Brandon Grosso, 25. Keith Hoffman, 26. Richie Hitzler, 27. Mark Kratz, 28. Craig Von Dohren, 29. Ryan Krachun, 30. Andy Perrego, 31. Doug Manmiller, 32. Cory Merkel. DNQ: Neil Williams, Cory Cormier, Bryan Kuhl, Ryan Beltz, Darrin Schuler, Brett Gilmore, Scott Frack, Joe Funk III, Craig Whitmoyer, Kyle Weiss, Ryan Grim, Steve Young, Kevin Hartnett, Alex Yankowski, Brian Hirthler, Ron Haring Jr., Bobby Trapper Jr., Ron Kline, Eric Kormann, Nate Brinker, Colt Harris, Bobby Gunther Walsh, Dom Buffalino, , Mike Mahaney, Danny Creeden, Billy Decker, Tyler Dippel, Rick Laubach, Kenny Gilmore, Dillon Steuer, Ray Swinehart, Billy Pauch Jr., Mike Lisowski, Brad Brightbill, Matt Stangle and Jordan Henn.
Schaeffer Motorsports Minuteman 20: 1. Mike Maresca, 2. Duane Howard, 3. Max McLaughlin, 4. Keith Hoffman, 5. Ryan Krachun.
Cash Dash (10 Laps): 1. Ryan Godown, 2. Craig Von Dohren, 3. Brett Kressley, 4. Cory Merkel, 5. Mike Gular, 6. Andy Bachetti, 7. Ryan Lilick, 8. Brett Kressley, 9. Frank Yankowski.
MEDIA NOTE: On behalf of all of us involved with the 50th running of the Freedom 76 and other events presented throughout the challenging season at Grandview please accept out thanks for the support. Much appreciated------ Ernie Saxton
THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES
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SEPTEMBER 20, 2020
CONTACT: BOB MILLER 443 513 4456
THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES
THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES NEWS. . . . . . .
BIG BLOCK/SMALL BLOCK MODIFIED TRIPLE 20’S SWEEP WORTH $8,500 PLUS SPORTSMAN TO CLOSE OUT GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY SEASON SATRUDAY, OCTOBER 17
BECHTELSVILLE, PA . . . . . A possible $8,500 payday awaits any modified driver who can pull off a sweep of the Trick or Treat Triple 20’s in the Thunder on the Hill season finale at the Grandview Speedway Saturday night, October 17. Each Modified feature will pay $2,000 to the winner and with thanks to Pioneer Pole Buildings, a $2,500 bonus is posted to any driver who can sweep the three features. If one driver wins two features, PPB will add an additional $500 in bonus money. Each feature offers an attractive payoff with $200 being paid to start. As in past years, this October event will allow both Big Block and 358 Modifieds to compete together in a unique rules package. Also on the program will be the sportsman competing in a series of qualifying events leading up to a $1,300 win 20 lap feature.
On race night, Saturday, October 17, the front gate will open at 4 PM with qualifying getting underway at 6:00 PM. The pit gate will open at 2:30 PM.
Pioneer Pole Buildings is the premier builder of post frame buildings in PA, NJ, DE, MD, WV, VA and NY. Pioneer was founded in 1998, and has since built their business and quality reputation on providing customers with top quality buildings at very competitive prices. Pioneer Pole Buildings is located on South Route 183 in Schuylkill Haven, PA. For more information, please call 888-448-2505 or visit their website at:
Qualifying for the Modifieds will determine the starting field with the top 12 finishers from the heat race events, drawing the top 12 starting positions in the opening feature. The winner of the first and second feature will then draw an invert number of 8, 10 or 12. This makes a sweep of the Pioneer Pole Buildings $2,500 bonus extremely possible.
A special rules package is offered as a ‘treat’ to the region’s competitors, with both American Racer and Hoosier tires allowed for competition, and either Big-Block or Spec Small-Block engines permitted. An event sheet with the complete payoff, rules, and details is available at www.thunderonthehillracingseries.com There is no entry fee but drivers must pre-enter to be eligible for the posted payoff and to draw. Drivers may pre-enter by calling 443 513 4456.
For the Saturday, October 17 event, adult admission tickets are $25, Children 6 to 11 are $10, Children 5 and under will be admitted free. The pit fee is $40, and a license is not required.
Advance tickets are available by calling 443 513 4456. Please speak clearly and provide your first and last name and the number of tickets you need. Tickets may be paid for a at 3:30 PM. Advance tickets orders can be processed up to the day before the race. We apologize, but advance tickets will NOT be available on race day. You may pick-up and pay for your tickets on race night at 3:30 PM and enter the grandstands immediately.
The conditions and requirements under the COVID-19 situation are ever-changing, and we will provide updates as we approach race night. To offer the safest possible conditions for our fans, competitors, officials, safety crew, and track employees, we are making the following requests.
Please bring exact change when purchasing general admission tickets or pit passes.
We also advise that you wear a face mask, although not mandatory.
When possible, especially when standing in line, practice social distancing, and be considerate of the individuals around you.
Also, as much as we want you to join us if you are not feeling well, please do not attend.
2020 Thunder on the Hill Race Dates:
Saturday, October 17 THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES 6 PM
MODS AT THE MADHOUSE Trick or Treat Triple 20's & Sportsman
Grandview Speedway Contact Information
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: www.thunderonthehillracingseries.com
Track Website: www.grandviewspeedway.com
Twitter/Instagram: @TOTHRACING
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thunderonthehill
50th Annual Feedom 76 At Grandview Speedway
Posted by: | CommentsKEVIN HIRTHLER WINS FREEDOM 38 SPORTSMAN RACE AT GRANDVIEW, RECORD FIELD OF ENTRIES
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NEWS FROM THE ROGERS FAMILY OPERATED GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY, BECHTELSVILLE, PA
ASSISTANT TRACK MANAGER – TINA ROGERS
TRACK PHONE: 610.754.7688 or visit www.grandviewspeedway.com
MEDIA CONTACT: Ernie Saxton @ esaxton144@aol.com, 215.752.7797 or 267.934.7286
Results by Randy Kane
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KEVIN HIRTHLER CLAIMS FREEDOM 38 SPORTSMAN VICTORY FRIDAY NIGHT AT GRANDVIEW
BECHTELSVILLE, PA September 19, 2020 . . . On a cool and breezy evening the action on the track was hot-and-heavy, Friday night at Grandview Speedway, with the seventh annual Freedom 38’er featuring Sportsman racers on the menu. A total of 55 cars in action made up the largest field ever assembled for the event, paying a healthy $3,550 to the winner of the 38-lap event on the high-banked third-mile clay covered lightning-fast oval in Bechtelsville, PA.
Following a luck-of-the-draw line-up for the 27 car starting field, second-place starter Steve Davis, of Jackson, N.J., aboard the Howie Finch owned Ice Less backed No. 4 mount, took the lead with the initial green waving with pole starter Joe Toth and third-place starter 28-year-old Brett Kressley, of Orefield, PA, in tow for the first four circuits before a caution appeared for Brad Arnold slowing with a flat tire.
The new green showed Toth moving out in front on the restart, followed by Kressley and Davis for lap 5, with Davis knifing his way back out in front for lap 6, with Kressley and Toth battling for the runner-up spot. On lap 7, Kressley powered his way out in front steering the Keith Hoffman owned No. 6 Over entry, as Toth and Davis trailed. By lap 9, Mike Gular, of Sassamansville, PA, who started from fourth-place, advanced into the runner-up role, with Toth and Davis following.
A caution on lap 11 for Ryan Beltz slowing to a stop in turn 2 forced the field to regroup, once again.
Kressley remained the race leader for lap 12, with a quick caution for Lex Shive spinning in turn 4 again bunching up the competition.
With racing back underway, it was Kressley again in command, followed by Davis and Kevin Hirthler, who started the event from eighteenth-place, looking strong as he quickly cut his way through the field, now running in third aboard his self-owned Pioneer Pole Building backed Bicknell chassied Crate powered No. 117 ride. Hirthler and Davis battled side-by-side for a couple of tours, with Davis fighting off every challenge.
At the halfway point, it was Kressley, Davis, Hirthler, Gular and fifth-place starter 17-year-old Kyle Smith, of Kutztown, PA, making up the top five.
Hirthler ducked underneath Davis exiting turn 2 on lap 25 to steal second-place, as the leaders now got into the slower lapped traffic, making things interesting.
“You could move anywhere you wanted to. The top, bottom or middle tonight,” revealed Hirthler. “The track was great and I used the top side in the beginning and, later, the bottom to cut through the traffic. My car felt great all night and we rolled the dice before the feature trying to decide if we’d run the hard tire or try the softer tire. I knew the car would get beat up pretty good coming through traffic from the back and I guess we made the right choice?”
Hirthler challenged Kressley racing through heavy lapped traffic for laps 27, 28 and 29 and on lap 30 they crossed the stripe running wheel-to-wheel. On lap 31 racing through turns 1 and 2, Hirthler made a nice move getting underneath Kressley and became the new race leader down the back chute. A yellow on lap 32 for Cole Stangle slowing with a broken left rear suspension bunched up the field for one final time.
“It certainly was a hard fought battle there with Brett. A great job tonight turned in by him. He was really fast,” Hirthler said.
The new green showed Hirthler taking the lead over Kressley, Davis and Gular for lap 33, with Gular slipping by Davis for third on lap 35.
“We had a great starting spot and I was just out there riding around, honestly, when out of nowhere along came Kevin with his Crate engine and he just smoked us all,” commented Kressley. “I was out there searching around and not paying attention to the lap counter as I should’ve been. We’re all good though. It was a good night.”
Hirthler went unchallenged for the final circuits to easily put a W in the win column. Kressley, Gular, Davis and Smith rounded out the top five at the checkered.
“Those guys that started up front were just out there riding around so we took a gamble on what tire to run,” noted the 40-year-old race winner from Boyertown, PA. “I am truly honored to be the first to win this race twice. It means a lot to me.”
Hirthler, who previously won the event back in 2018, became the first driver to repeat as a race winner in the event.
The triumph by Hirthler was his first in a Sportsman car since April 6, 2019 and the win pushed his career win total up to four. Being the first Crate powered car to cross the line, Hirthler was awarded an additional $100 bonus, bringing his total for the win up to $3,650 for his efforts.
“We put a brand-new Crate motor in the car for tonight right out of the box from Chevrolet,” offered Hirthler. “We just picked it up earlier this week off the shelf and put it in the car this week.”
The fifth-place finisher Kyle Smith was awarded an additional $100 as well for being the first weekly Sportsman racer to cross the line.
The 10-lap heat race winners were Brandon Edgar, Cole Stangle, Ryan Beltz, Tom Miller, Brett Kressley and Brett Gilmore. The 10-lap consolation race winners were Lex Shive, Kevin Hirthler and Ryan Higgs.
A total of 53 358 Modified cars took part in practice sessions throughout the evening, preparing for the 50th annual Freedom 76 event scheduled for the following night. Again, it produced the largest field of cars for practice since the “Night before the Freedom 76” events began back in 2014.
Next event coming up, after the Freedom 76 weekend is complete, is the Mods at the Mad House on Saturday, October 17th. Included will be three 20-lap features for Small Block/Big Block Modified racers each paying $2000 to win. A driver winning all three earns a Pioneer Pole Building Triple Sweep Bonus of $2500. And if someone falls short of the three wins and claims two wins there is a PPB Double Sweep Bonus of $500. And for the Sportsman racers there is $1,300 to win their feature.
Freedom 38 Feature Finish, 38 laps
1)Kevin Hirthler, 2) Brett Kressley, 3) Mike Gular, 4) Steve Davis, 5) Kyle Smith, 6) Jack Butler, 7) Brad Brightbill, 8) Ryan Lilick, 9) Dakota Kohler, 10) Jimmy Leiby, 11) Brandon Edgar, 12) Joe Toth, 13) Nate Brinker, 14) Nathan Mohr, 15) Ryan Higgs, 16) Jesse Leiby, 17) Ken Eckert Jr., 18) Tyler Peet, 19) Tom Miller, 20) Chris Esposito, 21) John McGovern, 22) Matt Peck, 23) Lex Shive, 24) Cole Stangle, 25) Jordan Henn, 26) Ryan Beltz, 27) Brad Arnold
DNS-Brett Gilmore (scratched due to engine issues). Matt Peck (first alternate) started the race as a result.
DNQ-Derrick Smith, Brian Hirthler, Mike Laise, Matt Brooke, Doug Snyder, Joey Vaccaro, Mike Schneck, Jim Housworth, Joe Brown, Bob Lineman Jr., Kenny Bock, Brianna James, Kyle Lilick, BJ Joly, Jesse Landis, Decker Swinehart, Tyler James, Cody Manmiller, Parker Guldin, Ray Woodall Jr., Bryan Rhoads, Skyler Sheriff, Steve Young, Mark Kemmerer, Chuck Eckert, Mark Gaugler, Scott Kohler.
VON DOHREN AND BRIAN HIRTHLER NASCAR TRACK CHAMPS; LATEST NEWS ON 50TH ANNUAL FREEDOM 76
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NEWS FROM ROGERS FAMILY GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY, Bechtelsville, PA
Presenting Saturday night NASCAR stock car racing plus a variety of special events. Our 58th consecutive season.
Track office: General Manager: Tina Rogers@ 610.754.7688 - Public relations: Ernie Saxton: Email: Esaxton144@aol.com – Cell phone: 267.934.7286
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CRAIG VON DOHREN AND BRIAN HIRTHLER EARN GRANDVIEW CHAMPIONSHIPS
BIG MONEY ACTION FEATURING FREEDOM 38 ON FRIDAY AND 50TH ANNUAL FREEDOM 76 ON SATURDAY—PAST WINNER STEWART FRIESEN ENTERS ALONG WITH BILLY PAUCH JR, BOBBY VARIN, MIKE MARESCA AND MANY OTHERS
BECHTELSVILLE, PA September 14, 2020 . . . Consistency had great rewards for Craig Von Dohren and Brian Hirthler. Even though they each only won one feature this season in each of their divisions of competition they were each able to walk off with Grandview Speedway championships.
For Craig Von Dohren the 2020 T.P.Trailers NASCAR Track Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series marked the 11th time in his storied career that he was able to walk off with the title wheeling the Harring Transportation entry. The last time the Oley, PA racer walked off with the title was 2017. With a total of 3153 points Von Dohren topped his Oley neighbor Duane Howard who was the defending champion. Howard also won a feature and was able to tally 2906 points with one feature win. Doug Manmiller grabbed third with 2694 followed by Jared Umbenhauer with 2691 and rounding out the top five was 10 time champion Jeff Strunk with 2669 points. A total of 50 racers earned points.
In the T.P.Truck Equipment Sportsman division Brian Hirthler survived a difficult night of racing that almost cost him the championship after having led most of the season. Hirthler, a champion in 2017, earned 2258 points with one feature win to his credit with the Alpine Truck Repair entry. The Green Lane, PA racer edged out Brad Arnold by just five points. Others who finished close to the champion were Ryan Beltz with 2230 counters, Kyle Lilick earned 2227 points while Jack Butler tallied 2114. Close to 60 racers competed in the Sportsman division with only Kyle Lilick winning more than once.
The excitement is continuing to build for two big nights of auto racing action, September 18 and 19, at the popular banked clay oval topped by the 50th Annual Freedom 76 Modified Classic that rewards the winner with $35,550 plus lap money on Saturday night. This race is expected to attract many of the top names in dirt track Modified racing.
The weekend kicks off with the action packed Freedom 38 for Sportsman stock cars paying the winner of the 38-lapper $3,550. This race is also expected to attract many visitors to test their skills.
Also on Friday night, action starting at 7:30 p.m., the Modified racers planning to participate in the Freedom 76 will be given practice time during the evening’s events.
Pits open at 3 p.m. and main grandstand gates open at 5:30 p.m.
Adult admission is $15 with youngsters 6 through 11 paying $5 and kids under 6 admitted free. Pit admission for Friday is $35 and there is no license required.
Tickets for the Freedom 76 will sell for $40. Youngsters, 6 through 11, on Saturday will pay $10 while kids under 6 are admitted free. Pit admission will be $45 with no license required. There are no advance tickets being offered.
Saturday will see pit gates open at 9 a.m. Ticket windows open at 3:00 p.m. Fans will be able to enter the speedway at the first turn and fourth turn spectator gates to reserve seats with blankets between 9am and 12noon.
On track action will get started at 7 p.m. as top Modified racing talents participate in qualifying events, the $1,000 to win Kirsten Snyder Web Design & Photography Cash Dash, the Schaffer Racing Minuteman 20 and top it all off with the 50th edition of the Freedom 76, “The Granddaddy of Modified Stock Car Classics”.
A large amount of lap money will be divided amongst lap leaders during the big race and the racer gaining the most positions during the 76 laps will receive $500 from Bobby Gunther Walsh and his sponsors as the Hard Charger.
Competition Carburetion Fast Lap of $50 will be awarded Friday, Sept. 18 for the Freedom 38 and for the Saturday September 19th Freedom 76.
All winners are entered into a random drawing at the end of the season for a Grand prize of $500.00
Freedom Fest will take place from 10 AM to 12 NOON in the first turn pavilion area and will feature music by Maddie Pearl a group that includes front man Colby Knappenberger, Roger Knappenberger (1973 Freedom 76 winner), Pete Knappenberger and young Rian Stevens. Race cars driven by Ryan Grim, Colt Harris and Dylan Swinehart will be on display.
Bob Hilbert Sportswear will present a jacket to the winner of the Freedom 76.
🚨ATTENTION RACE TEAMS: Due to the right rear tire shortage. The tire stamp will be open for Friday, Sept 18th Sportsman 38er, and Saturday Sept 19th, Freedom 76. It must be an American Racer, Grandview tread pattern and compounds. Right rears 48 and 50. Any questions please reach out to Ed Scott at: 484-239-7583. We have been told from the distributor we will have tires available at the track this weekend.
Full information on the weekend of racing is available at www.grandviewspeedway.com, Facebook or telephone 610.754.7688. Racers will find entry information the website.
UNOFFICIAL FINAL POINT STANDINGS FOR NASCAR MODIFIEDS AS OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2020
1. Craig Von Dohren, Oley, PA #1C 3153*
2. Duane Howard, Oley, PA #66/357H 2906*
3. Doug Manmiller, Shoemakersville, PA #44M 2694
4. Jared Umbenhauer, Richland, PA #19 2691
5. Jeff Strunk, Boyertown, PA #126 2669*
6. Mike Gular, Fredrick, PA #2A 2583*
7. Ryan Grim, Laury’s Station, PA #17 2541
8. Brett Kressley, Orefield, PA #19K 2362***
9. Louden Reimert, Oley, PA #16 2343
10. Rick Laubach, Hellertown, PA #7L/18/14 2059
11. Craig Whitmoyer, Hamburg, PA #99 2046
12. Kevin Hirthler, Boyertown, PA #117 2012***
13. Justin Grim, Orefield, PA #61 1960
14. Ron Kline, Salford, PA #3 1486
15 Briggs Danner, Allentown, PA #78 1437
16. Ryan Lilick, Collegeville, PA #49 1432
17. Kyle Weiss, Hamburg, PA #21K 1374
18. Dylan Swinehart, Fleetwood, PA #81 1277*
19. Dillon Steuer, Stoudsburg, PA #17Z 1270
20. Ray Swinehart, Perkiomenville, PA #33 1223*
21. Dan Waisempacher, Springtown, PA #01 1132
21. Brad Grim, Coplay, PA #23 1132
23. Mike Lisowski, Minersville, PA #15 1066
24. Kenny Gilmore, Fleetwood, PA #7K 1040
25. Brett Gilmore, Fleetwood, PA #7B 1001
26. Eric Biehn, Barto, PA #87 1000
27. Richie Hitzler, Lebanon, PA #3/22 878
28. John Willman, Birdsboro, PA #74W 859
29. Carroll Hine III, Reading, PA #114 844
30. Ryan Watt, Boyertown, PA 14W 837
UNOFFICIAL FINAL POINT STANDINGS FOR NASCAR SPORTSMAN AS OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2020
1. Brian Hirthler, Green Lane, PA #4* 2258*
2. Brad Arnold, Bethel, PA #27 2253*
3. Ryan Beltz, Barto, PA #221 2030*
4. Kyle Lilick, Collegeville, PA #104 2227**
5. Jack Butler, Phillipsburg, NJ #5 2114*
6. Mark Kemmerer, Green Lane, PA, PA #F10 1993
7. Kyle Smith, Fleetwood, PA #77 1907
8. Chris Esposito, Hatfield, PA #31A 1855
9. Nate Brinker, Allentown, PA #14 1832
10. Jesse Leiby, Milford, NJ #9 (332) 1653
11. Jimmy Leiby, Milford, NJ #9L 1415
12. Dakota Kohler, Kutztown, PA #59K 1304*
13. Brad Brightbill, Sinking Springs, PA #19 1250*
14. Cole Stangle, Neshanic Station, NJ #20C 1229
15. Kenny Bock, Birdsboro, PA #6 1126*
16. Nathan Mohr, Exeter, PA #17M 1118
17. Jesse Landis, Gilbertsville, PA #973 1069
18. Tom Miller, Gilbertsville, PA #77T 974*
19. John McGovern, Bechtelsville, PA #327 967
20. Scott Kohler, Kutztown, PA #12S 869
21. Brandon Edgar, Lehighton, PA #57 866
22. Parker Guldin, Fleetwood, PA #11 851
23. Lex Shive, Pennsburg, PA #5K 849
24. Mike Mammana, Nazareth, PA #31 824
25. Derrick Smith, Telford, PA #20 818
Ken Eckert Jr. #29,* - * Also a feature winners.
* denotes feature win (Feature wins listed are only for those that are
NASCAR point events.)
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NEWS FROM ROGERS FAMILY GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY, Bechtelsville, PA
Presenting Saturday night NASCAR stock car racing plus a variety of special events. Our 58th consecutive season.
Track office: General Manager: Tina Rogers@ 610.754.7688 - Public relations: Ernie Saxton: Email: Esaxton144@aol.com – Cell phone: 267.934.7286
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CRAIG VON DOHREN EARNS HIS 11TH T.P.TRAILERS NASCAR TRACK MODIFIED TITLE AND BRIAN HIRTHLER COLLECTS SECOND T.P.TRUCK EQUIPMENT SPORTSMAN CHAMPIONSHIP AT GRANDVIEW
RAY SWINEHART AND KYLE LILICK HIT PAY DIRT WITH GRANDVIEW FEATURE VICTORIES SATURDAY
BECHTELSVILLE, PA. September 13, 2020 . . . The 2020 Grandview Speedway racing season shortened by the virus has been a series of ups and downs for two time former Modified point champion Ray Swinehart.
Numerous occasions Swinehart had his No. 33 hooked up and appeared to be on the way to a possible victory only to be hampered with some form of problem that eliminated his chances.
Saturday night in the activities sponsored by Hope Mortgage Team that sponsors Sportsman drivers B.J. Joly and Lex Shive, Swinehart took the early lead in the 30-lap T.P. Trailers Modified NASCAR Advance Auto Parts feature and stayed there until the drop of the checkered to go home $3,850 richer for his first win of the year. He received $2,500 to win, plus $300 from T.P., $1,000 from Hope Mortgage and an extra $50 for third in the Cash Dash also from Hope Mortgage.
Kyle Lilick took advantage of the lane leader Jesse Landis opened up with one lap remaining in the 25-lap T.P. Truck Equipment NASCAR Sportsman feature and went on to claim his second triumph. The win, his second of the season, was worth $1,800 – $600 to win, $200 from TP and $1,000 from Hope Mortgage.
The highlight of the evening activities was the crowning of the point champions in each class.
Craig Von Dohren finished fifth in the Modified feature, but it was enough to rack up his 11th title with a total of 3133 points which was 227 points ahead of runner-up and defending champion Duane Howard.
The Sportsman chase had a closer point difference between first and second. Brian Hirthler had to fix two broken axles while in the pits under caution in the feature and was one lap down, but with an 18th place finish he was able to finish with 2258 points, just five points ahead of second place finisher Brad Arnold.
At the onset of the Modified feature Swinehart was off and running with John Willman, recently released by the doctors to race following a gall bladder surgery; Justin Grim, Rick Laubach and Ron Kline in tow.
Within seven laps Swinehart had a comfortable lead built up leaving a three-way battle for second between Willman, J. Grim and Laubach. Attempting to get in the mix were Craig Whitmoyer and Ryan Grim.
By the Dan’s Deli ½-way hoagie mark the order behind Swinehart was now Laubach, Willman, Mike Gular and J. Grim.
The first caution was brought out on the 17th lap when Louden Reimert slowed in the fourth turn with a right rear flat tire. The restart was void after Meme DeSantis and Joe Funk III tangled in turn four. Swinehart continued his rapid pace when action continued, but by this time Laubach, Brett Kressley, Gular and J. Grim held down second through fifth. Von Dohren was trying aimlessly to move into fifth, but to no avail.
Even though lapped traffic was among the front runners Swinehart could run the top and bottom lanes to get by them.
All the suspension changes tried throughout the year which was a learning curve paid off for Swinehart as he pulled into victory lane for the first time since September 1, 2018 when he won the Forrest Rogers Memorial race. Placing second was Laubach, for his best finish, trailed by Kressley, Gular and Von Dohren. Sixth through tenth were J. Grim, last week’s feature winner Kevin Hirthler, Whitmoyer, Dillon Steuer and Jeff Strunk. Jared Umbenhauer who started 27th and finished 16th received $250 as the Hard Charger from Hope Mortgage.
Qualifying heat winners were J. Grim, Louden Reimert, Swinehart and Ryan Grim. Dylan Swinehart and Doug Manmiller won the consies. R. Grim won the Hope Mortgage 3-lap Cash Dash for $300.
Polesitter Bryan Rhoads led the Sportsman feature for seven laps until Steve Young, who previously won the Hope Mortgage Cash Dash for $300, passed him on the outside on the restart needed when Brandon Edgar stopped in turn one.
Hirthler pulled into the homestretch infield close to the edge of the track on the ninth lap, but it wasn’t until the 10th lap the yellow was thrown putting him a lap down. Hirthler went pit side and in that time the red was thrown for a fire in Chris Esposito’s car ending his night. This mishap allowed Hirthler more time to work on his car and return. Young remained first with Landis trying to overtake him.
Landis became the new leader on the 12th lap restart needed when Tommy Scheetz Sr. and Scott Kohler tangled in the second turn. Behind him Cole Stangle, Lilick, Young and Ryan Beltz diced for the remaining top five positions.
The yellow was waving again on the 14th lap after Brett Gilmore stopped in the fourth turn. Hirthler went pit side once again and while he was in the staging lane along the back pits waiting to return modified drivers Jeff Strunk and Mike Lisowski noticed a broken axle and along with brother Kevin Hirthler quickly changed it and he came back out. On the Dan’s Deli ½-way restart Landis was now being chased by Lilick, Beltz, Young and Stangle.
Lilick made several bids to take control, but Landis, in search of victory, kept him behind.
With one lap to go Landis opened up the proper line which was the break Lilick needed and got past him.
Lilick never looked back and went on to his second win of the season followed by Landis, for his best finish, Beltz, Stangle, the highest crate engine finisher earning an extra $100 from the track and Jack Butler. Rounding out the top ten were Kyle Smith, Lex Shive, John McGovern, Mark Kemmerer, who started 23rd and received $250 from Hope Mortgage as the Hard Charger, and Brad Arnold. Lilick was the only repeat feature winner of the season in the Sportsman division.
Esposito, Young and Shive won the heats. Consi winners were Dylan Hoch and Kenny Bock.
Coming up on Friday, September 18 is the Freedom 38 for Sportsman with the winner earning $3,550. In addition to the regulars several visitors are expected to test their talents with action set to get under way at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 19 the 50th Annual Freedom 76 Modified race that rewards the winner with $35,550 plus lap money. The action set to start at 7 p.m. Fans are invited to enter the speedway grounds between 9 a.m. to 12 noon to reserve seats. Saturday action will include qualifying events, the $1,000 to win Kirsten Snyder Web Design & Photography Cash Dash, the Schaeffer Racing Minuteman 20 topped off with the 50th Annual Freedom 76.
Bobby Gunther Walsh and his sponsors will sponsor the Hard Charger Award worth $500. Bob Hilbert Sportswear will present a jacket to the winner.
RACE RESULTS
Hope Mortgage Team Night T. P. Trailers Modified Feature (30-laps): 1. Ray Swinehart, 2. Rick Laubach, 3. Brett Kressley, 4. Mike Gular, 5. Craig Von Dohren, 6. Justin Grim, 7. Kevin Hirthler, 8. Craig Whitmoyer, 9. Dillon Steuer, 10. Jeff Strunk, 11. Ryan Grim, 12. Duane Howard, 13. John Willman, 14. Ron Kline, 15. Brad Brightbill, 16. Jared Umbenhauer, 17. Louden Reimert (provisional), 18. Doug Manmiller, 19. Bobby Trapper Jr., 20. Brad Grim, 21. Richie Hitzler, 22. Carroll Hine III, 23. Joe Funk III, 24. Mike Lisowski, 25. Kenny Gilmore, 26. Meme DeSantis, 27. Mark Kratz, 28. Dylan Swinehart, 29. Ryan Lilick. DNQ: Mark Levy, Mark Kratz, Eric Biehn, Ron Haring Jr., Bobby Gunther Walsh, Dan Waisempacher, Colt Harris and Darrin Schuler.
Hope Mortgage Team Night T.P. Trailers Truck Equipment Sportsman Feature (25-laps): 1. Kyle Lilick, 2. Jesse Landis, 3. Ryan Beltz, 4. Cole Stangle, 5. Jack Butler, 6 Kyle Smith, 7. Lex Shive, 8. John McGovern, 9. Mark Kemmerer, 10. Brad Arnold, 11. Nathan Mohr, 12. Brett Gilmore, 13. Brandon Edgar, 14. Dylan Hoch, 15. Dakota Kohler, 16. Scott Kohler, 17. Ryan Rhoads, 18. Brian Hirthler, 19. Steve Young, 20. Jesse Leiby, 21. Nate Brinker, 22. Tommy Scheetz Sr., 23. Chris Esposito, 24. Kenny Bock. DNQ: Parker Guldin, Derrick Smith, Mike Schneck, Tom Miller, Tyler James, Troy Conrad and Cody Manmiller.
THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES NEWS
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SEPTEMBER 9, 2020
CONTACT: BOB MILLER 443 513 4456
THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES
PIONEER POLE BUILDINGS POST BONUS. . . . . . .
POSSIBLE $8,500 TO SWEEP MODIFIED TRIPLE 20’S AS THUNDER SERIES CLOSES OUT 2020 SEASON AT GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17
BECHTELSVILLE, PA . . . . . The 31st season of Thunder on the Hill will close out the 2020 season at the Grandview Speedway on Saturday night, October 17. The season finale will showcase qualifying events for the Modifieds and Sportsman, leading up to a 20 lap feature for the sportsman and triple twenty lap features for the Modifieds. Each Modified feature will pay $2,000 and with thanks to Pioneer Pole Buildings, a $2,500 bonus is posted to any driver who can sweep the three features. If one driver wins two features, PPB will add an additional $500 in bonus money. Each feature will pay $200 to start.
On race night, the front gate will open at 4 PM with qualifying getting underway at 6:00 PM. The pit gate will open at 2:30 PM.
Pioneer Pole Buildings is the premier builder of post frame buildings in PA, NJ, DE, MD, WV, VA and NY. Pioneer was founded in 1998, and has since built their business and quality reputation on providing customers with top quality buildings at very competitive prices. Pioneer Pole Buildings is located on South Route 183 in Schuylkill Haven, PA. For more information, please call 888-448-2505 or visit their website at:
Qualifying for the Modifieds will determine the starting field with the top 12 finishers from the heat race events, drawing the top 12 starting positions in the opening feature. The winner of the first and second feature will then draw an invert number of 8, 10 or 12.
A special rules package is offered as a ‘treat’ to the region’s competitors, with both American Racer and Hoosier tires allowed for competition, and either Big-Block or Spec Small-Block engines permitted. An event sheet with the complete payoff, rules, and details is available at www.thunderonthehillracingseries.com There is no entry fee but drivers must pre-enter to be eligible for the posted payoff and to draw. Drivers may pre-enter by calling 443 513 4456.
For the Sportsman, qualifying heat race events will also determine the starting line-up with the top 12 from the heats, drawing for the top 12 spots in the feature starting line-up. The Sportsman feature will go a distance of 20 lap and pay $1,300 to the winner.
For the October 17 event, adult admission tickets are $25, Children 6 to 11 are $10, Children 5 and under will be admitted free. The pit fee is $40, and a license is not required.
Advance tickets are available by calling 443 513 4456. Please speak clearly and provide your first and last name and the number of tickets you need. Tickets may be paid for a at 3:30 PM. Advance tickets orders can be processed up to the day before the race. We apologize, but advance tickets will NOT be available on race day. You may pick-up and pay for your tickets on race night at 3:30 PM and enter the grandstands immediately.
The conditions and requirements under the COVID-19 situation are ever-changing, and we will provide updates as we approach race night. To offer the safest possible conditions for our fans, competitors, officials, safety crew, and track employees, we are making the following requests.
Please bring exact change when purchasing general admission tickets or pit passes.
We also advise that you wear a face mask, although not mandatory.
When possible, especially when standing in line, practice social distancing, and be considerate of the individuals around you.
Also, as much as we want you to join us if you are not feeling well, please do not attend.
2020 Thunder on the Hill Race Dates:
Saturday, October 17 THUNDER ON THE HILL RACING SERIES 6 PM
MODS AT THE MADHOUSE Trick or Treat Triple 20's & Sportsman
Grandview Speedway Contact Information
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: www.thunderonthehillracingseries.com
Track Website: www.grandviewspeedway.com
Twitter/Instagram: @TOTHRACING
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thunderonthehill