Midwest Racing Archives

1987 – Mullens Completes Two-Race Sweep

2026-08-08T08:05:06.270-06:00

Wichita, Kan. (August 8, 1987) – Buddy Mullens of Wichita won his second IMCA Modified National Series feature race in two nights as he captured the event Saturday night at 81 Speedway.

A field of 41 IMCA modifieds participated in the program.

Mullens took the lead away from Rick Cox of Davenport, Iowa, on a restart as Cox anticipated another lap under yellow and dropped back to fifth. Larry McDaniels of Wichita also led for a time as he passed Mullens and Cox but dropped out with mechanical problems.

However, Cox worked his way back into second and regained the lead from Mullens a few laps later. The lead lasted only a lap, however, as Mullens found his way around Cox and stayed there to the finish.

Cox wound up second with Steve Echer of Wichita third, Martin Bennett of Des Moines, Iowa, fourth, and current IMCA Modified National Series point leader Ray Cox Jr. of Walcott, Iowa, fifth.

Heats were won by Ted Beaman of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Ray Cox Jr., Van Gemmill of Ponca City, Okla., Walt Schilt of Muskogee, Okla., and Delbert Smith off Wichita.

Gary Dunkle of Chanute won the B-feature.

Results –

1. Buddy Mullens, Wichita
2. Rick Cox, Davenport, Iowa
3. Steve Echer, Wichita
4. Martin Bennett, Des Moines, Iowa
5. Ray Cox Jr., Walcott, Iowa
6. Larry Pankratz, Wichita
7. Joe Reed, Wichita
8. Jess Folk, Iola
9. Rusty Minden, Paola
10.Gary Dunkle, Chanute
11.Tom Yokum, Hillsboro
12.Kenny Thompson, Persia, Iowa
13.Tom Coyan, Wichita
14.Walt Schilt, Muskogee, Okla.
15.Jerry Phillips, Galva

1975 – Blankenship Gets to Top at Valley

2026-08-08T07:58:01.178-06:00

Lem Blankenship

Davenport, Iowa (August 8, 1975) – Lem Blankenship, many times a bridesmaid but never a bride, took his final vows in what he hopes will be a long, happy marriage with the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds.

The veteran Keokuk driver, second so often he was starting to get a complex, simply outran one of the classiest field of the year before 8,000 screaming fans in Friday night’s late model modified feature.

Blankenship’s win, couple with Davenport’s Dave Wheeler’s victory in the sportsman feature, came before the largest crowd of the year, thanks in part to the Great Valley Fair which concludes a 10-day stand on Saturday.

While the two Iowa drivers were rolling in all the marbles, they certainly went in opposite directions to get there.

Blankenship, starting on the front row, got a great jump when the green flag was dropped, moved in front coming out of the second turn, and led a five-car chase that was never interrupted.

Wheeler, meanwhile, began his adventure in the middle of the pack, used two red flags and three yellow flags to cap an uphill climb that resulted in his first feature win of the season as well.

In the late model windup, Blankenship and point leader Ed Sanger ran 1-2 the entire 25 laps. Cedar Rapids’ Darrell Dake, after flirting with third and fourth, finished a strong third with Lisbon’s Roger Dolan following in fourth. Mike Niffenegger of Kalona rounded out the top-five finishers.

“All I had to do was drive the car,” an elated Blankenship said in victory lane. “Its pretty hard not to win when your crew has the car running so well.”

Dake and Blankenship were heat winners while Dolan won the semi-feature.

The sportsman feature was the wildest of the night with a three-car pileup on lap 2 setting the stage for a 45-minute, 16-lap slugfest.

It all started when point leader Gary Kerres of Edgington, Darrell Bidwell of Davenport, and Rapid City’s Gary Henry got tangled up one lap into the race.

All were sidelined at that point, leaving John Simenec of Rock Island in perfect position not only to take the win but overhaul Kerres for the point lead as well.

And it looked like a certainty as Simenec opened up a quarter=lap lead on the rest of the field. But a simple case of over-steering took Simenec off the beaten path in turn three, giving the lead to Phil Larsen of Iowa City.

Larsen held the top spot for the next eight circuits but gave up his lead to the hard-charging Wheeler on lap 13. They crossed the finish line that way a couple of laps later with Ted Claeys taking third.

Results –

Heat #1 – Darrell Dake, Cedar Rapids
Heat #2 – Lem Blankenship, Keokuk
Semi-main – Roger Dolan, Lisbon
Feature –
1. Lem Blankenship
2. Ed Sanger, Waterloo
3. Darrell Dake
4. Roger Dolan
5. Mike Niffenegger, Kalona

1969 – Marshalltown Fair Wins to Keen, LeCroy, Hansen

2026-08-08T07:55:24.247-06:00

By Denny Carter

Marshalltown, Iowa (August 8-12, 1969) – Mike Keen, Jerry LeCroy, and Curt Hansen were feature winners at the Central Iowa Fair in Marshalltown.

Drivers competed for a $1,300 purse on Friday and Saturday night and a $1,200 purse on Tuesday.

Keen, of Marshalltown, worked his way up through the pack to win the late model opener on Friday night. Keen also placed second in his heat and third in the Australian Pursuit.

A really hot driver Friday night was Merle Leonard of Marshalltown who followed Keen in the feature, won the Australian Pursuit and the first heat.

Jerry LeCroy of Des Moines, who took third in the feature, finishing ahead of George Barton of Des Moines and Joel Ramussen of Gilbert to win the third heat.

Paul Uhlenberg of Garwin captured honors over Keen in the second heat.

John Schroyer of Laurel topped the sportsman field, winning his heat and the feature – a repeat performance from last week. Schroyer now has four wins for the season.

LeCroy charged from the rear of the field on Saturday to score the late model feature win on Saturday. Lynn Warden of Marshalltown led the first three laps before Joel Rasmussen took over. Rasmussen’s lead would be short-lived as a broken axle sent him limping to the infield. Warden would take over again and lead one more lap before LeCroy took over for good on lap 8 and led the rest of the way to the checkers.

Chuck Warnhoff of Marshalltown won the Australian Pursuit ahead of Paul Uhlenberg. Warden won the first heat while Jim Cowan of Marshalltown was the second heat winner. Friday night’s feature winner, Keen, won the third heat.

In the sportsman division, Carroll Menter from Marshalltown, a late arrival, won his heat and the feature.

Curt Hansen of Dike would walk off with late model honors on Tuesday and won a $100 bonus for an outsider winning on his first or second time. Hansen became the second driver this season to earn the bonus. Ed Sanger of Waterloo was the first driver to accomplish the feat.

In addition to winning the feature, Hansen also won the first heat.

Joel Ramussen won the B-semi and led all the way in winning the third heat. Arlo Becker of Atkins won the A-semi and Del McDowell of Ames captured the second heat.

In sportsman action, Carroll Menter made it two-in-a-row, winning the feature over Jon Schroyer and George Eruom of Marshalltown.

Results –

Friday –

1. Mike Keen, Marshalltown
2. Merle Leonard, Marshalltown
3. Jerry LeCroy, Des Moines
4. Chris Maurer, Des Moines
5. Del McDowell, Ames
6. Dan Clement, Rhodes
7. Lynn Warden, Marshalltown

Saturday –

1. Jerry LeCroy
2. Dan Clement
3. Mike Keen
4. Paul Uhlenberg
5. Larry DeFrance, Marshalltown
6. Del McDowell
7. Jim Cowan, Marshalltown
8. Ron Witte, Marshalltown

Tuesday –

1. Curt Hansen, Dike
2. Darrell DeVries, Charles City
3. Arlo Becker, Atkins
4. Ed Sanger, Waterloo
5. Jerry LeCroy
6. Del McDowell
7. Chris Maurer

1984 – Swindell Tops ‘Jerry Weld Memorial’

2026-08-07T06:15:56.740-06:00

Sammy Swindell won the ninth annual Jerry Weld Memorial at I-70 Speedway.

Odessa, Mo. (August 7, 1984) – Sammy Swindell of Bartlett, Tenn., had to wrestle with his car most of the night, but finally won over the car and the entire field to score the $6,000 first prize in the ninth annual Jerry Weld Memorial at I-70 National Speedway on Monday night.

Earlier in the evening, the engine on Swindell’s mount let go at the end of the first time trial laps right after he set fourth fastest time, but his crew was able to install a new one before the first heat race. Sammy was able to finish second in his heat and qualify himself a start in the 25-lap feature.

Tim Green of Carmichael, Calif., jumped into the lead at the green but was run down by Bobby Davis Jr. on lap 7. On lap 9 Davis pulled to the inside of the front straight because of inbalance in his right rear tire when it filled with dirt, sending him to the ear of the field joining Swindell, who had been sent back earlier on lap 2 when his tire blew.

That put Green back on top with a charging Doug Wolfgang moving in on his tail and making the lead pass on lap 13. During their battle for first place, Swindell charged his way through heavy traffic up to third, and by lap 24 with the final lap coming, moved in to challenge the leaders.

On the white flag lap, Sammy drove low into turn one to move by Green and then drive even with Wolfgang on the back chute. Wolfgang’s brake lines were gone, leaving him no possibility to drive hard entering the final corners, and Swindell dove low again in turns three and four to take the lead and win on the final turn.

Wolfgang settled for second with Green taking third, Scott Ritchhart fourth, and “The Dude” Danny Lasoski rounding out the top five finishers.

Kenny Jacobs, Junior Parkinson, Davis, and Richard Griffin won heat races while Jimmy “Buckwheat” Sills won the last chance “B” feature.

In time trials, fast time was set by Jacobs, who turned the half-mile in 17.09 seconds.

Results –

1. Sammy Swindell
2. Doug Wolfgang
3. Tim Green
4. Scott Ritchhart
5. Danny Lasoski
6. Greg Wooley
7. Kenny Jacobs
8. Terry Gray
9. Randy Smith
10.Bobby Davis Jr.
11.Richard Griffin
12.Junior Parkinson

1979 - Miller Claims Second ARTGO Carter Classic Win

2026-08-07T06:13:28.496-06:00

Mike Miller captured his second straight ARTGO Wayne Carter Classic at Grundy County Speedway. – Stan Kalwasinski Collection

Morris, Ill. (August 7, 1979) – Repeating last year’s performance, Mike Miller of Wisconsin Rapids, Wis., wheeled his Oldsmobile Cutlass to victory in ARTGO Racing’s Wayne Carter Classic at Grundy County Speedway on Tuesday night.

It was Miller’s second ARTGO win of the ’79 season, giving him the distinction of becoming the first two-time winner of the event, which was originated in 1975 to honor Wayne Carter, who brought auto racing to the area in 1917.

The largest crowd of the season saw defending track champion Ray Young grab the lead from his outside front row starting position at the drop of the green flag. The Chicago-land veteran with more than 20 years of racing experience, quickly began building a commanding lead as the rest of the 25-car field sorted themselves out.

With 25 laps in the books, Young’s lead began to approach the half-lap variety as Rusty Wallace, Mike Miller, Billy Kuhn, Mark Martin, and Tom Reffner gave chase. With no stop in the action, the halfway mark quickly approached with Young still on top and Miller, Martin, Reffner, and now Dick Trickle seemingly moving a little closer with every lap.

Young’s comfortable lead was erased on lap 46 when the yellow flag flew for Bob Strait who spun in turn one.

When the green flag resumed racing, it was Young holding off the pressuring Miller, who was followed closely by Martin. Only seven more laps were completed when the yellow light flashed again, this time for Jerry Kemperman, who came to a halt on the frontstretch.

When the green reappeared, Miller immediately dove underneath Young as thee duo headed for the groove in turn one with the two cars making contact, sending Young high and out of shape between turns one and two.

Taking full advantage of the situation, Martin, Reffner, and Trickle slipped by Young, moving behind Miller who was wasting no time in establishing a commanding lead between himself and the rest of his competitors.

It was Miller the rest of the way as far as first place was concerned as the real battle was for second between Reffner, Trickle, Young, Martin and Larry Detjens. The tightly knit bunch ran bumper-to-bumper for the remaining laps as they battled continuously for position.

At the checkered, it was Miller with almost a half-lap lead advantage over runner-up Reffner who was followed by Trickle and Young, who finished the race with a broken tie rod causing him to drag his smoking left front tire for the final few laps.

Results –

1. Mike Miller, Wisconsin Rapids, Wis.
2. Tom Reffner, Rudolph, Wis.
3. Dick Trickle, Wisconsin Rapids, Wis.
4. Ray Young, Dolton, Ill.
5. Larry Detjens, Wausau, Wis.
6. Mark Martin, Batesville, Ark.
7. Larry Schuler, Lockport, Ill.
8. Dave Watson, Milton, Wis.
9. Ed Hoffman, Niles, Ill.
10.Dave Evans, Crystal Lakes, Ill.

1988 – Belleville Midget Nationals to Knepper

2026-08-06T08:47:45.542-06:00

Steve Knepper proudly displays his trophy for winning the 40-lap Midget Nationals at the Belleville High Banks. – Jim Viviano Photo

By Bryan Gapinski

Belleville, Kan. (August 3, 1988) – Steve Knepper scored the biggest win of his career Saturday night by winning the 40-lap Belleville Midget Nationals feature at the Belleville High Banks. The win was worth $6,500 of the $34,000 purse.

Knepper, who started on the pole, jumped into the lead immediately closely followed by Randy Roberts. The duo pulled away from the rest of the field and battled for the top spot.

By the 10th trip around the half-mile, Knepper increased his lead over Roberts to four-car-lengths as third-place Dan Boorse closed in on Roberts. At the midway point of the race, Knepper’s margin was six-car-lengths.

Former Belleville winner Mike Gregg and Tommy White crashed on lap 29, with Gregg flipping, bringing out the red flag. Neither driver was hurt.

On the restart, defending race winner Ron “Sleepy” Tripp retired to the pits with engine problems and Knepper cruised to the easy win over Roberts, Boorse, Chuck Gurney, and Robby Flock.

Results –

1. Steve Knepper
2. Randy Roberts
3. Dan Boorse
4. Chuck Gurney
5. Robby Flock
6. Palmer Crowell
7. Jon Backlund
8. Mike Brooks
9. Steve Enlow
10.Dean Billings

1968 – Bob Lane Captures D.M. County Fair Win

2026-08-06T08:44:51.526-06:00

Bob Lane

By Duane King

Burlington, Iowa (August 6, 1968) – Fifty-three cars, both modified and cadet class, moved from 34 Raceways Park and took charge at the local Des Moines County Fairgrounds on Tuesday night.

Semi-super modified driver Bob Lane made the adjustment very well to the half-mile oval as he won the match race then went on to take the main event as well.

After winning the match race in short order, Lane picked up the pace again in the feature, demonstrating to everyone in attendance his skill behind the wheel and his masterful moves as he made his way to the front of the 15-car field.

He was aided, however, by a first lap wreck involving Cliff Blundy, Roger Clarke, and Jim Dillon. On the restart, Lane immediately moved to second, passing Starman on the third lap, and then continued his torrid pace, passing early leader Johnn Babby on the fourth lap.

No one would close in on Lane from that point, and the Burlington truck driver would sail home the easy winner. Babb hung on to finish second with Bob Ensminger taking third.

“Wild” Bill Arnold had no difficulty, as usual, in copping the cadet feature. Although Arnold started in the sixth row, he plotted a course the short way around the track and was in the lead after only five laps.

Results –

Semi-Super Modified –

Match race – Bob Lane
Heat #1 – Dean Anderson
Heat #2 – Bob Ensminger
Semi-main – Allen Tee
Feature –
1. Bob Lane
2. Johnny Babb
3. Bob Ensminger
4. Jerry Blundy
5. Dean Anderson

Cadet –

1. Bill Arnold
2. Larry Reighard
3. Ken Haley
4. Jack Alter
5. Ken Reighard

1961 – Jones’ Streak Ended by Foyt

2026-08-06T08:42:18.658-06:00

A.J. Foyt is surrounded by race fans and well-wishers after winning the 30-lap USAC sprint car feature on the high banks of Greater Salem Speedway. – IRMA Photo Collection

Salem, Ind. (August 6, 1961) – National USAC champion and Indianapolis 500 winner A.J. Foyt had a day of revenge at Greater Salem Speedway on Sunday afternoon.

The handsome 26-year-old Texan from Houston swept most of the honors on the United States Auto Club’s fourth sprint program of the year here before a crowd of 4,200.

He drove his Bowes Offenhauser to victory in the 30-lap feature, grabbed the win in the first heat, and also set fast time during qualifying with a time of 18.80 seconds.

And, equally as important, he protected his slight lead over Parnelli Jones in the USAC sprint car standings by handing Jones, of Torrance, Calif., his first defeat after five straight USAC sprint car victories. It also avenged a defeat Jones handed him here on July 4.

Elmer George of Speedway, Ind., finished second in the Tony’s Special and Jones was third in the Chevrolet-powered Fike Plumbing Special as the last seven laps were run under the caution flag.

It was displayed after Dick Pratt of Winchester, Ind., who had set a track record of 3 minutes and 16.68 seconds in the 10-lap semi-feature, blew his engine, and spun while running sixth.

However, Foyt was 100 yards ahead at the time and appeared the certain winner.

All told, it was a bad day for the Chevies.

Bill Cheesbourg of Tucson, Ariz., started the streak when he demolished his Chevy-powered car in a warmup spin when his throttle stuck, and his brakes locked going into the first turn. He suffered a slight concussion with cuts and bruises all over his face. He would be hospitalized overnight.

Jones had handling issues all day long and Don Branson of Champaign, Ill., broke the crankshaft in his Hoover Special just before his qualifying run.

Results –

1. A.J. Foyt, Houston, Tex.
2. Elmer George, Speedway
3. Parnelli Jones, Torrance, Calif.
4. Len Sutton, Portland, Ore.
5. Chuck Hulse, Indianapolis
6. A.J. Shepherd, Gardena, Calif.
7. Al Miller, Roseville, Mich.
8. Jim Hemmings, North Vernon
9. Jack Rounds, Huntington Beach, Calif.
10.Leroy Neumayer, Los Angeles, Calif.
11.Bob Mathouser, Indianapolis
12.Dick Pratt, Winchester
13.Bud Tingelstad, Dayton, Ohio
14.Roy Robbins, Scottsburg

1989 – Hughes, Mitchell Top at Monticello

2026-08-05T05:07:14.999-06:00

Monticello, Iowa (August 5, 1989) – A huge crowd packed the grandstand and the hillside on Saturday, waited out a rain shower, then watched the annual stock car races at the Great Jones County Fair.

Gus Hughes delighted his hometown fans by winning the modified feature, Hughes fought off early challenges by Bill Beckman, also of Monticello, then late in the race, withstood a hard-charging Skip Frey of Ely.

Gayln Mitchell of Decorah made the long tow pay off as he topped a strong field of pro stocks. Dan Bohr, also from Decorah, finished second ahead of Tom Guckenberger of Dubuque.

Fifth-four bombers checked in, and fans witnessed some slam-bang action. Gary Hughes of Monticello took the lead late from Rich Glenn of Olin and held on for the win.

Results –

Modified –

1. Gus Hughes, Monticello
2. Skip Frey, Ely
3. Bill Beckman, Monticello
4. Ryan Dolan, Lisbon
5. Scott Nesteby, Dubuque
6. Jack Roth, Hazel Green, Wis.
7. Jay Hanken, Monticello
8. Johnny Spaw, Cedar Rapids
9. Ed Thomas, Waterloo

Pro Stock –

1. Gayln Mitchell, Decorah
2. Dan Bohr, Decorah
3. Tom Guckenberger, Dubuque
4. Erik Spaw, Cedar Rapids
5. Jerry Miles, Dubuque
6. Phil McDonald, Monticello
7. Jeff Valentine, Dubuque
8. John Charnowski, Hiawatha
9. Bart Miller, Tipton
10.Randy Hansen, Dubuque

Bombers –

1. Gary Hughes, Monticello
2. Rich Glenn, Olin
3. Red Hughes, Monticello
4. Dale Stolte, Martelle
5. Kevin Leonard, Center Junction
6. Matt Sams, Anamosa
7. Pat Murray, Hopkinton
8. Bart Harms, Wyoming
9. Joe Breitbarth, Cascade
10.Larry Appleby, Cedar Rapids

1978 - Shear Edges Miller for Dells Mid-Season

2026-08-05T05:03:56.227-06:00

Joe Shear won the 50-lap late model mid-season championship at Dells Motor Speedway. - Stan Kalwasinski Collection

Wisconsin Dells, Wis. (August 5, 1978) – Joe Shear of South Beloit, Ill., powered his Neilsen Camaro to first place in the 50-lap mid-season championship at Dells Motor Speedway. Steve Carlson of La Crosse was the hobby stock mid-season titlist.

Shear edged fast timer Mike Miller of Wisconsin Rapids at the finish line by two feet. In all, 46 late models and 17 hobby stocks signed in for the Saturday night program that marked the halfway point in the season. Fans were treated to five late model heats and two hobby stock heats along with their respective features.

After Jim Back won the trophy dash, heat wins went to Mike Langsdorf, Richie Bickle, Jim Johnson, Rocky Breezer, and Steve Burgess. Bart Reinen won the 15-lap consolation and Bickle came back to nip Steve Moll for the win in the 25-lap semi-main.

Mike Hennesy was fast timer in the hobby stocks with Rich Blackdeer winning the trophy dash. Ollie Christanson and Steve Carlson were heat winners.

Results –

Late Models –

1. Joe Shear, South Beloit, Ill.
2. Mike Miller, Wisconsin Rapids
3. Tom Reffner, Rudolph
4. Marv Marzofka, Nekoosa
5. Pat Schauer, Watertown
6. Steve Burgess, Eau Claire
7. Larry Detjens, Wausau
8. Fred Bender, Sun Prairie
9. Jim Bohmsach, Wisconsin Rapids
10.Ted Musgrave, Grand Marsh

Hobby Stocks –

1. Steve Carlson, La Crosse
2. Bob Suhr, Cashton
3. Mike Niles, Holmen
4. Rick Wateski, La Crosse
5. Terry Mashak

1967 - Mullink Double Winner at West Liberty

2026-08-05T05:01:12.178-06:00

John Mullink used his driving skill to win the Mississippi Valley Speed Club feature at West Liberty. He’s shown here receiving a certificate from a representative of Wynn’s Friction Proofing, rewarding him with a free trip for two to Florida. – Dick Kleindolph Photo

By Dorothy Mitchell

West Liberty, Iowa (August 5, 1967) – John Mullink of West Liberty was the top man in town Saturday night as he led all 18 laps to win the Mississippi Valley Speed Club feature at the Muscatine County Fairgrounds before 3,000.

And, for his efforts, Mullink also earned a free trip for two to Florida courtesy of Wynn’s Friction Proofing.

“I was pretty happy tonight," Mullink said from victory lane. “The track was awful hard and slick tonight. Eighteen laps tonight seemed a lot longer.”

John Moss of Iowa City was a close second tonight with Mark Mosier an even closer third, right on Moss’s rear bumper the entire time. Bud Darting of Wilton Junction was fourth and Tom Stewart of Washington finished fifth.

Heat winners were Mark Mosier, John Moss, Bob Smith of Mt. Pleasant, and Bud Darting. The semi-main Tom Harris of Iowa City.

All winners received a jacket from Wynn’s Friction Proofing.

Results –

1. John Mullink, West Liberty
2. John Moss, Iowa City
3. Mark Mosier, Washinton
4. Bud Darting, Wilton Junction
5. Tom Stewart, Washington
6. Stan Crooks, Muscatine
7. Ron Hemsted, Lone Tree
8. Larry Jenkins, Wilton Junction
9. Leroy Stutzman, Lockridge
10.Bob Smith, Mt. Pleasant

1989 – Blaney USA Winner at Moberly

2026-08-04T06:07:07.933-06:00

Dave Blaney won the USA sprint car feature at the Moberly Motorsports Park. - Bill Haglund Photo.

Moberly, Mo. (August 4, 1989) – For the second time in as many weeks, the United Sprint Association packed the house at the all-new Moberly Motorsports Park. The star-studded sprint car event produced a record crowd, and a first-time series win for former NCRA driving star, Dave Blaney.

Blaney grabbed the $5,250 first prize in a thrilling drive from his sixth starting position. Steve Kinser took second from his seventh starting position while Mark Kinser took placed third. Sammy Swindell and Danny Lasoski took fourth and fifth, respectively.

Lasoski took the early lead when a yellow flew on lap 3. On the restart, Lasoski continued to lead followed by Mark Kinser, Blaney, Steve Kinser, and Swindell. Popular Jac Haudenschild saw his chance for victory evaporate along with the water coming out of his exhaust.

While the Missouri-bred Lasoski desperately wanted his first USA victory, it was Blaney who had the right setup and used the dangerous but less crowded high line to take the lead on lap 9.

Despite another caution on lap 11, Blaney had the right stuff and cruised to a well-deserved victory ahead of Steve Kinser, Mark Kinser, Swindell and Lasoski.

The last 10 laps provided plenty of excitement as Randy Smith charged from his 14th starting position to finish sixth at the stripe.

Results –

1. Dave Blaney
2. Steve Kinser
3. Mark Kinser
4. Sammy Swindell
5. Danny Lasoski
6. Randy Smith
7. Donnie Beechler
8. Terry Gray
9. Craig Keel
10.Tommie Estes Jr.

1981 - Kosiski Takes Grand National XV

2026-08-04T06:03:38.322-06:00

Joe Kosiski of Omaha won the Grand National XV 50-lap late model feature at Boone Speedway. Joining Kosiski in victory lane is Stacy McDowell, daughter of driver Del McDowell.

Boone, Iowa (August 4, 1981) – Joe Kosiski of Omaha added his name to the winner’s list of the Boone Grand Nationals when he won the rain-delayed 50-lap late model championship Tuesday on the quarter-mile Boone Speedway.

Kosiski was pushed hard the entire way by Al Urhammer of Radcliffe while Randall’s Bob Hill stayed in contention for most of the race and finish third.

Billy Moyer Jr. of Des Moines was fourth and Jerry Holtkamp of Williams rounded out the top five finishers.

The event had been rained out on its original date of July 21, and was again rained out the following night and a second time was rescheduled.

Most of the cars that were qualified to run in the 50-lap open late model competition returned to compete.

In addition to the headliner, a regular program was run as well. The 25-lap late model feature was won by Ray Kinnetz of Webster City while Greg Roorda of Mitchellville won the sportsman main. Larry Embrey of Granger was the thunder car winner.

Results –

1. Joe Kosiski, Omaha
2. Al Urhammer, Radcliffe
3. Bob Hill, Randall
4. Billy Moyer Jr., Des Moines
5. Jerry Holtkamp, Williams
6. Bill Rice, Des Moines
7. Gary Webb, Davenport
8. Dan Nesteby, Waterloo
9. Ken Davidson, Indianola
10.Bill Martin, Council Bluffs
11.Bill Kirk, Salix
12.Tim Murray, Des Moines
13.Rick Wendling, Hazelton
14.Craig Spetman, Council Bluffs
15.Steve Kosiski, Omaha
16.Jerry Parker, Clearfield
17.Gary Pederson, Rutland

1962 – Nelson Wins USAC Race at Illiana

2026-08-04T06:01:32.104-06:00

Norm Nelson accepts his trophy after winning the 100-lap USAC stock car race at Illiana Motor Speedway. – Wayne Bryant Photo/Stan Kalwasinski Collection

Schererville, Ind. (August 4, 1962) – Norm Nelson of Racine, Wis., had his 1962 Ford in tune Saturday night when Illiana Speedway hosted the USAC late model stock cars.

Nelson led all qualifiers with a time of 24.36 seconds and wound up first in the 100-lap feature over the half-mile track with a time of 37 minutes and 57.41 seconds. He lapped 990 percent of the field.

Elmer Musgrave of Niles, Ill., finished second in a 1961 Mercury followed by Don White of Keokuk, Iowa, in a 1962 Ford. Whitey Gerken of Schiller Park, Ill., in a 1962 Chevrolet, and Troy Ruttman of Dearborn, Mich., in a 1962 Mercury, rounded out the top-five finishers.

Heat winners were White, Whitey Johnson of Hammond in a 1961 Pontiac, and Rich Stukus of Oak Lawn, Ill., in a 1961 Ford.

Results –

1. Norm Nelson, Racine, Wis.
2. Elmer Musgrave, Niles, Ill.
3. Don White, Keokuk, Iowa
4. Whitey Gerken, Melrose Park, Ill.
5. Troy Ruttman, Dearborn, Mich.
6. Whitey Johnson, Hammond
7. Paul Goldsmith, St. Clair Shores, Mich.
8. Gene Marmor, Schiller Park, Ill.

1988 - Moyer Takes Wilmot NASCAR 'Tour' Win

2026-08-03T08:29:28.149-06:00

Billy Moyer Jr. won the NASCAR Busch All-Star Tour feature at Wilmot Speedway. It was Moyer’s second “Tour” win of the season. – Mike Napierala Photo

By Pete Pistone

Wilmot, Wis. (August 3, 1988) – Billy Moyer Jr. set a new track record in qualifying, then went on to win Wednesday’s 50-lap NASCAR Busch All-Star Tour feature at Wilmot Speedway.

Moyer’s 16.86-second tour of the flat, 1/3-mile dirt oval set the new mark, easily besting the field of 39 late models who gathered for the Tour’s first-ever visit to the state of Wisconsin.

A field of 26 answered the bell for the 50-lap headliner with Dick Taylor of Springfield, Ill., jumping into the lead. Terry Liebentritt’s spin on lap 2 slowed the pace but Moyer, who started in the fifth row on the inverted lineup, was already on the move.

When the green flag reappeared, Taylor maintained the top spot until the ninth circuit when Moyer took command. A Tom Hearst – Tony Izzo tangle in turn two brought out the yellow once more, and the field, including hard-charging Jim O’Conner, and Minnesota pilot Rick Egersdorf, closed in behind the leader.

Moyer had his hands full on the restart, as O’Conner, who won one of the twin 20-lap qualifiers, kept his car on the Batesville, Ark., speedster’s rear bumper. A red flag appeared on lap 24 as the track’s emergency vehicle attended to a corner worker who was not seriously injured by a flying rock.

The final 25 laps saw Moyer and O’Conner put on a ferocious duel, weaving through lapped traffic in their battle for the lead. O’Conner tried several times to pass on the low side, pulling even with Moyer on numerous attempts, but Moyer’s car performed perfectly on the high groove, and he held on for the win.

The win, worth $3,000, was Moyer’s second of the season on the All-Star Tour. He had won the Miller 100 at Hawkeye Downs Speedway in June.

At the finish, Moyer and O’Conner were followed by Taylor, Egersdorf, and Ray Guss Jr. of Milan, Ill.

Omaha’s Joe Kosiski won the other 20-lap qualifier while Lake Villa, Ill., star and former Wilmot weekly competitor Whitey Harris won the 10-lap consolation.

NASCAR Busch All-Star Tour point leader Steve Kosiski of Omaha broke an axle during the 50-lpper, relegating him to a 21st place finish. His brother Joe took over the series’ point lead.

Results –

1. Billy Moyer Jr., Batesville, Ark.
2. Jim O’Conner, Kankakee, Ill.
3. Dick Taylor, Springfield, Ill.
4. Rick Egersdorf, St. Paul, Minn.
5. Ray Guss Jr., Milan, Ill.
6. John Provenzano, Elk Grove, Ill.
7. Joe Kosiski, Omaha
8. Jeff Hinkemeyer, St. Cloud, Minn.
9. Gary Webb, Davenport, Iowa
10.Al Atkinson
11.Tony Izzo, Bridgeview, Ill.
12.Charlie Sentman, Waveland, Ind.
13.Dennis Erb, Carpentersville, Ill.
14.Whitey Harris, Lake Villa, Ill.
15.Tim Routson, West Chicago, Ill.

1980 - Two Triumphs for Sanger in East Moline Twin 50s

2026-08-03T08:25:06.530-06:00

Ed Sanger

East Moline, Ill. (August 7, 1980) – Ed Sanger of Waterloo, Iowa, drove his Camaro to two feature wins and a $1,200 first place prize Sunday night in East Moline Speedway’s Twin 50s.

Sanger’s 469-cubic0inch powered Camaro left both 20-car fields behind as he grabbed the checkered flags at the popular high-banked quarter mile.

The first 50-lap feature went 19 laps without interruption before Jerry Wolland hit the wall on the grandstand straightaway.

Once restarted, the race continued accident-free and by lap 26, Steve Fraise of Montrose, Iowa, had snuck by Sanger to grab the lead.

Sanger came on strong a lap later to work his way back to the head of the pack and never relinquished it thereafter.

Fraise settled for second while Tom Hearst of Wilton, Iowa, was third, Tom Bartholomew of Waterloo, Iowa, was fourth and Herb Shannon of Hanna City rounded out the top five finishers.

The first race’s order of finish was inverted to determine starting positions for the second 50-lapper and Sanger found himself starting in the 19th position.

Keith Remley of Blue Grass, Iowa, had the pole but it was Denny Miller of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, grabbing the lead at the wave of the green flag. He would lead until lap 9 when Pete Parker of Kaukauna, Wis., took over.

The red flag stopped the race on lap 16, and again on lap 17 when a massive pile-up occurred in the fourth turn.

Three laps later, Ron Weedon of Pleasant Valley, Iowa, tagged the wall in the fourth turn.

Parker’s Camaro maintained a healthy lead throughout the mishaps until lap 29 when Sanger, who had made his way steadily through the field, crept up on Parker and started challenging on the inside grooves of the corners.

Sanger lost little ground on the straights and once switched to an outside groove attack before finally pulling ahead of Parker on lap 39 with a move to the inside of the second turn.

From there, Sanger distanced himself and won handily over Steve Fraise, who had passed Parker on the white flag lap. Parker settled for third, Bartholomew was fourth and Johnny Johnson of Morning Sun, Iowa, was fifth.

Results –

Feature #1 –

1. Ed Sanger, Waterloo, Iowa
2. Steve Fraise, Montrose, Iowa
3. Tom Hearst, Wilton, Iowa
4. Tom Bartholomew, Waterloo, Iowa
5. Herb Shannon, Hanna City

Feature #2 –

1. Ed Sanger
2. Steve Fraise
3. Pete Parker, Kaukauna, Wis.
4. Tom Bartholomew
5. Johnny Johnson, Morning Sun, Iowa

1986 – Keselowski Scores First in Berlin ARCA

2026-08-02T12:06:17.394-06:00

Bob Keselowski scored his first career ARCA Supercar Series victory, winning the Berlin 100 at Berlin Raceway.

Marne, Mich. (August 2, 1986) – Bob Keselowski scored the first ARCA Supercar Series win of his career as he topped the Berlin 100 Saturday night at Berlin Raceway.

Bob Strait took the early lead from polesitter Keselowski, but Keselowski charged back in front on lap 7. Keselowski maintained a sloid cushion over the remainder of the field for the balance of the race to become the ninth different driver to win on the ARCA circuit this season.

Bill Venturini worked his way up to gain second at the wire followed by Strait, defending ARCA series champion Lee Raymond, and Bob Brevak.

“This really gives us a lift,” said Keselowski, who turned 35-years-old the day before the race. “We’ve been fast a lot of times but just couldn’t get the win. The first win is the hardest.”

Keselowski collected $3,605 in prize and contingency money plus $2,100 in bonus awards.

Raymond continues to lead the series’ point standings with 2,175 markers while Bob Schact, who finished sixth after a late race spin, is second with 1,770 points.

Results –

1. Bob Keselowski
2. Bill Venturini
3. Bob Strait
4. Lee Raymond
5. Bob Brevak
6. Bob Schact
7. Scott Stovall
8. Dave Simko
9. Bruce Vanderlaan
10.Mark Gibson
11.Roger Blackstock
12.Rick Jeffrey
13.Jack Wallace
14.Dennis Meldpennigen
15.Don Marmor

1978 - Birkhofer Takes Tipton Fair Race

2026-08-02T12:04:12.568-06:00

Dave Birkhofer took the honors in super stock competition at the Cedar County Fair in Tipton. Cy Bohr is the flagman. – Earl Schwartz Photo

Tipton, Iowa (August 2, 1978) – Dave Birkhofer of Muscatine won the trophy dash, first heat, and the super stock feature at the Cedar County Fair races on Wednesday night.

Birkhofer started on the pole and led green-to-checkered in the 25-lap feature. Mike McGrew of Coal Valley, Ill., was running second in the feature until a power steering belt came loose, knocking out the water pump. The incident turned second place over to Chuck Lukemyre of Tipton with Gus Hughes of Monticello finishing third.

Bruce Current of Maquoketa won the 15-lap sportsman feature over Bill Murray of Hopkinton and Dale Peters of Grand Mound.

Results –

Super Stocks –

Trophy dash – Dave Birkhofer, Muscatine
Heat #1 – Dave Birkhofer
Heat #2 – Jim Reidl, Dubuque
Feature –
1. Dave Birkhofer
2. Chuck Lukemyre, Tipton
3. Gus Hughes, Monticello
4. Jim Reidl
5. Larry Doherty, Marion

Sportsman –

Heat #1 – Randy Mills, Dubuque
Heat #2 – Bill Murray, Hopkinton
Feature –
1. Bruce Current, Maquoketa
2. Bill Murray
3. Dale Peters, Grand Mound
4. Dave Koob, Cascade
5. Ron Fare, Cedar Rapids

1969 – Harrison Wins at Knox County Fair

2026-08-02T12:02:08.581-06:00

Darl Harrison won the 25-lap IMCA sprint car feature at the Knox County Fair. Harrison would go on to win the IMCA national sprint car title for 1969.

Knoxville, Ill. (August 2, 1969) - Darl Harrison of Tiffin, Ohio, fattened his International Motor Contest Association point lead, winning the 25-lap sprint car feature on the half-mile track at the 116th annual Knox County Fair before 3,700 fans.

The Harrison victory copped two nights of spectacular IMCA sprint car racing with over 30 cars on hand from all parts of the United States and Canada. Lyn McIntosh of Fort Williams, Ontario, Canada made his first appearance and won a heat race on Friday.

Following Harrison across the finish line were Benny Rapp of Toledo, Ohio, Jerry Blundy of Galesburg, Ill., Jay Woodside of Kansas City, and Buzz Rose of Lomita, Calif.

Heat winners were Woodside, Bill Utz of Sedalia, Mo., and Don Daniels of St. Paul, Minn. Rose won the STP dash and Harrison was also the consolation winner.

Results –

1. Darl Harrison, Tiffin, Ohio
2. Benny Rapp, Toledo, Ohio
3. Jerry Blundy, Galesburg, Ill.
4. Jay Woodside, Kansas City
5. Buzz Rose, Lomita, Calif.
6. Bill Compton, Sylvania, Ohio
7. Chuck Lynch, Springfield
8. Tom Custer, Rock Island
9. Johnny Babb, Ottumwa, Iowa
10.Chuck Taylor, Alton

1974 - Crash Boosts Mueller at De Pere

2026-08-01T08:59:36.765-06:00

De Pere, Wis. (August 1, 1974) – Harold Mueller, getting a fortunate assist from Lady Luck, turned the 35-lap Wisconsin Late Model Championship Series feature at the Brown County Fairgrounds Thursday night into his own personal benefit race.

Mueller gained the lead on lap 8 after a crash eliminated local favorites Roger Regeth and M.J. McBride.

With the 18-car feature field starting straight up, fast qualifier McBride led the parade for three tours on the half-mile clay oval before Regeth stormed by in the second turn.

As the pair diced furiously three laps later and approached the West turn, Neenah’s Marcus Brei spun his 1972 Camaro in the fourth turn infield. Attempting to return to action, Brei pulled directly into the path of a charging Regeth and McBride.

Running at full throttle, Regeth blasted into the left side of Brei’s racer, shearing the left front tire off. McBride, following on Regeth’s rear bumper, clipped the rear end of Brei’s machine and seriously damaged his own vehicle.

Regeth and Brei escaped with a thorough shaking, but McBride was fitted with a neck brace and sent to a local hospital for observation of a strained neck.

“I thought he (Brei) was going to stay up high, but he all of a sudden dipped inside and there was no way I was going to avoid him,” explained a disgusted Regeth.

For the majority of the 2,890 in attendance, the race was over at this point as the mangled wrecks were towed to the pit area.

Mueller quickly distanced himself from the rest of the field. Eau Claire’s Leon Plank passed Dave Conger of Oshkosh on lap 16 to take over the third spot and set out after Tom Steuding who was holding down second.

Steuding would blow the engine in his 1970 Chevelle six laps later, coast into the pits, and Plank had the runner-up spot.

Tiny Lund, a surprise entry from Cross, S.C., put late pressure on Plank ad his 1974 Chevelle Laguna but finish a car-length down at the checkers. Lund was in the area for Sunday’s USAC stock car race at Shawano and decided to compete in the open competition event in his 1974 Camaro.

Mueller had stretched his margin of victory to eight-car-lengths at the finish. Competing the top-six were Tom Nesbitt of Thunder Bay, Ont., Conger, and Terry Baldry of Winneconne.

A number of regular contenders either failed to qualify for the main event or experienced some sort of difficulty. Roger Paul of New London, the area’s leading feature winner with 11 victories thus far, fell out of the feature on lap 17 and was credited with a 11th place finish. J.J. Smith of Appleton and Jerry Muenster of Green Bay had trouble qualifying on the rain-drenched track and found themselves in the semi-main.

Results –

1. Harold Mueller, Eau Clair
2. Leon Plank, Eau Claire
3. Tiny Lund, Cross, S.C.
4. Tom Nesbitt, Thunder Bay, Ont.
5. Dave Conger, Oshkosh
6. Terry Baldry, Winneconne
7. Axel Dahlberg, Mauston
8. Roger Trapp, Shiocton
9. Tom Steuding, Eau Claire
10.Phil Prusak, Eau Claire
11.Roger Paul, New London
12.George Giesen Jr., Menasha
13.Red Steffen, Eau Claire
14.Roger Regeth, Kimberly
15.M.J. McBride, Shawano

1964 - Lutz Passes Marmor to Win Record O'Hare 500

2026-08-01T08:56:25.309-06:00

Bill Lutz (center) is joined by (from left to right) starter Art Kelly, Joe Koziol of Grand Car Wash, speed shop owner and trophy presenter Bill Von Esser and O’Hare Stadium official Frank “Ham” Lobaza. - Bob Brown Photo

Chicago, Ill. (August 1, 1964) – Bill Lutz of Melrose Park and his 1963 Grand Car Wash-sponsored Chevrolet scored a record-breaking victory in the third annual O’Hare American 500 for late model convertible stocks at O’Hare Stadium before a capacity crowd.

Although the race was slowed twice to clear accidents from the highly banked quarter-mile, Lutz was timed in a record 2 hours, 24 minutes and 17.88 seconds to knock nearly two minutes off Whitey Gerken’s old mark of 2 hours, 26 minutes and 00.61 seconds.

Forty-one cars took part in time trials with the fastest 33 lining up three abreast for the start of the classic. On the pole position was Bill Shoulders of North Chicago who proceeded to bore out to a good lead at the drop of starter Art Kelly’s green flag.

Lutz, who started in the middle of the front row, finally got by the tiring Shoulders on lap 96. Shoulders later called for a relief driver in the person of Bob Urban of Highland Park who figured to be a strong contender in this year’s race until his car blew an engine in warmups.

Close on the heels of Lutz was O’Hare’s defending champion, Gene Marmor of River Grove, who finally nudged his 1964 Chevrolet into the lead on lap 240. On lap 250 – the hallway point – it was Marmor, Lutz, Roy Martinelli of Prairie View, and Elmer Musgrave of Niles in that order.

The yellow came out for the first time on lap 277 when Don Koelling of Wheeling went into a wicked snap triple roll on the backstretch and was struck by Dick Drewws of Chicago.

A few laps later, the green flag was back out and Marmor and Lutz resumed their battle. On several occasions, Lutz would close within a few feet but then Marmor would move back into a comfortable position. This on-again, off-again battle would continue for 200 more laps until the yellow was displayed again.

This was on lap 464 when Jim Vandermeir of Melrose Park broke a rear axle and spun in the west turn. About the same time, Martinelli retired and Musgrave moved up to the third spot with his 1959 Ford. On the restart, it took Lutz only a few laps to finally work his way around Marmor and regain the lead.

At the finish, it was a tired but happy Lutz who crossed the finish line as a popular victor in front of Marmor, and Musgrave who finished third. Rob Chauncey of Elk Grove was fourth and Leroy Roberts of Elmwood Park rounded out the top-five finishers.

The well deserved win was worth $1,000 for Lutz, who also won the first O’Hare American 500 in 1962, and he also netted another $571 in lap money. He also received a TV console, $135 wristwatch, and motel weekend with meals.

Marmor netted $757 in prize money with a total cash payout of $1,462. The only other leader in the event, Bill Shoulders, collected $292.

Despite a total of 13 cautions, Lutz averaged 51.96 miles per hour, nearly three miles an hour faster than his victory rate of 49.15 miles per hour in 1962.

Results –

1. Bill Lutz
2. Gene Marmor
3. Elmer Musgrave
4. Rob Chauncey
5. Leroy Roberts
6. Bill Shoulders
7. Dan Lewand
8. Butch Linden
9. Frank Freda
10.Rich Davis
11.Roy Martinelli
12.Phil Lehman
13.Bob Dotter
14.Bill Finley
15.Jim Vandermeir
16.Barrie Fritsch
17.Eddie Jast
18.Terry Gayne
19.Bob Schultz
20.Dick Triphahn
21.Hal Lehman
22.Don Berggren
23.Whitey Gerken
24.Roy Czach
25.Don Koelling

1985 – Steve Kosiski Wins Busch/Winston Opener

2026-07-31T09:08:17.007-06:00

Steve Kosiski won the inaugural Winston/Busch All-Star Tour feature at Adams County Speedway. – Jerry Adams Photo

By Jim Brennan

Corning, Iowa (July 31, 1985) – After a one-day postponement due to rain, the 1985 Busch/Winston All-Star Tour got underway at Adams County Speedway on Wednesday night.

Winning the first race on the tour was Steve Kosiski of Omaha over Roger Dolan of Lisbon, with Tom Hearst of Wilton finishing third. Ironically, these are the top three drivers in the NASCAR Winston Racing Series Central Region point standing.

A red flag on the opening lap set the tone for the evening as several yellow flags were displayed as well as one more red flag late in the race.

When the green flag waved dropped for the second time, Ken Walton of Viola shot into the lead, followed by Hearst, Steve Kosiski, and Dale Fischlein of Davenport. Walton maintained the lead until lap 4 when Kosiski took over the top spot.

Dolan, who started in the seventh row, made his way quickly through the field and into second place on lap 10. He hounded Kosiski through several more restarts but just didn’t have the power to get by him.

All the time, it appeared that the fastest car on the track belonged to Joe Kosiski of Omaha, who started in the eleventh row after winning the second B-main, as he moved all the way up to third by lap 26.

Trouble struck Joe on lap 30 when he tangled with a slower car sending him int the guardrail and causing a flat tire. He was able to change the tire, rejoin the field in 17th position, and finish eighth in the race.

Results –

Heat #1 – Roger Dolan, Lisbon
Heat #2 – Ken Walton, Viola
Heat #3 – Larry Harvey Jr., Kansas City
Heat #4 – Steve Fraise, Montrose
Heat #5 – Tom Hearst, Wilton
B-main #1 – John Chapin, Nebraska City, Neb.
B-main #2 – Joe Kosiski, Omaha, Neb.
Feature –
1. Steve Kosiski, Omaha, Neb.
2. Roger Dolan
3. Tom Hearst
4. Dave Chase, Council Bluffs
5. Ken Walton
6. Steve Fraise
7. Gene Claxton, Kansas City
8. Joe Kosiski
9. Dale Fischlein, Davenport
10.John Chapin
11.Tom Svoboda, David City, Neb.
12.Keith Leithoff, Omaha, Neb.
13.Jeff French, Mt. Ayr
14.Larry Harvey Jr.
15.Jamie Hager, Kansas City

1987 – Moyer Tops USAC Field at Santa Fe

2026-07-30T07:31:30.962-06:00

Billy Moyer Jr. won the USAC dirt late model feature at Santa Fe Speedway. - Darrel Kennedy Photo

Hinsdale, Ill. (July 30, 1987) – Billy Moyer Jr., of Batesville, Ark., took the lead on the 26th lap and led the final 14 to capture the 40-lap USAC dirt late model feature win Thursday night at Santa Fe Speedway.

Moyer collected $3,000 for the win that was nationally televised on ESPN.

Ray Godsey drove a strong race to finish second, Dick Taylor was third, Ed Bauman fourth, and Jerry Inmon was fifth.

Inmon led the first 21 laps before slowing his pace. Godsey led the next five before Moyer took over for good.

A total of 57 late models were on hand.

Inmon, Moyer Jr., Johnny Johnson, and Bill Bottoms won heat races, while non-qualifiers were won by Santa Fe regulars Larry Jackson and Ken Pohlman. The semi-main was won by Parker.

Results –

1. Billy Moyer Jr.
2. Ray Godsey
3. Dick Taylor
4. Ed Bauman
5. Jerry Inmon
6. Gibby Steinhaus
7. Pete Parker
8. Charlie Sentman
9. Gary Webb
10.Rick Standridge

1978 - Hearst Returns to Winner's Circle

2026-07-29T08:02:08.220-06:00

Tom Hearst won the late model feature at the West Liberty Fair. Joining him is flagman Ed Otten. – Dick Kleindolph Photo

By Ruthann Smith

West Liberty, Iowa (July 29, 1978) – West Liberty Fair fans were treated to an action-packed evening of racing Saturday evening with some keen competition, several close finishes, a couple of spectacular spinouts, and wild and wooly action all night.

Defending track champion Tom Hearst of Wilton returned to the winner’s circle for the second time this season by copping the late model feature.

Pete Parker of Kaukauna, Wis., had the pole position and grabbed the lead early on. Hearst made hiss first big move on lap 10 when he edged into third place behind Parker and Johnny Johnson of Morning Sun.

After riding their bumpers and then getting alongside them, Hearst bounded into the lead a couple of laps later.

On the 17th lap, the action changed rapidly when Larry Jenkins of Wilton Junction and Johnny Johnson, battling for second place, got tangled up on the front straightaway with both cars badly damaged and scratched for the rest of the evening.

John Simenec of Rock Island, Ill., the “Flyin’ Fireman,” climbed into second and took up the challenge on Hearst, and although he made several good attempts, he couldn’t catch him.

At the checkers it was Hearst, Simenec, Phil Larson of Iowa City, Gary Webb of Davenport, and Dave Birkhofer of Muscatine.

Kenny Fenn of Washington continued his domination of the sportsman division, picking up his fourth feature win in a row. Rounding out the top-five was Ron Pallister of Wapello, Ron Becker of Norway, Denny Walker of Riverside, and Charlie Brockert of Muscatine.

Results –

Late Model –

Heat #1 – Johnny Johnson, Morning Sun
Heat #2 – Dave Dodder, Letts
Heat #3 – Tom Hearst, Wilton
Heat #4 – Pete Parker, Kaukauna, Wis.
Semi-main – Ken Walton, Viola
Feature –
1. Tom Hearst
2. John Simenec, Rock Island, Ill.
3. Phil Larson, Iowa City
4. Gary Webb, Davenport
5. Dave Birkhofer, Muscatine
6. Dave Dodder
7. Ron Weedon, Pleasant Valley
8. Duane Steffe, East Moline, Ill.
9. Ken Walton
10.Steve Keppler, Marion

Sportsman –

1. Kenny Fenn, Washington
2. Ron Pallister, Wapello
3. Ron Becker, Norway
4. Denny Walker, Riverside
5. Charlie Brockert, Muscatine
6. Mark Keltner, Morning Sun
7. Mike Phillips, Columbus Junction
8. Ron Boyse, Kalona

1988 – Hodges Wins, Crashes Dot ‘Illinois Swing’

2026-07-28T11:55:32.131-06:00

Rocky Hodges

White City, Ill. July 28, 1988) – Current All Star Circuit of Champions point leader, Rocky Hodges of Des Moines, picked up his eighth win of the season as he led green to checkered in the crash-filled 30-lap main event at Mid-State Raceway’s half-mile dirt oval.

It was the opening night of the fourth annual “Illinois Swing” for the outlaw winged sprints.

Hodges, who vacated the Stan Schoff ride recently, held off the early race challenges om his new ride, the Jasper Pettite owned #3. Jack Hewitt of Troy, Ohio, who had left the Bob Hampshire ride as well, challenged for the lead several times in the Stan Schoff #23S until he tangled with a back marker, flattening his left rear tire, and bringing out the yellow flag as Frank Filsko of Des Plaines spun as a result of the altercation. Hewitt was forced to restart at the rear of the field but dropped out altogether a few laps later with mechanical problems.

Kenny Jacobs gave chase but was unable to match the power of Hodge’s car.

Following Hodges and Jacobs at the checkered were Rodney Duncan, Rod George, and Joe Gaerte.

The 30-lap main was dedicated to Brad Doty, who had been critically injured in the recent King’s Royal event at Eldora. During intermission, drivers went through the grandstands and collected $1,300 for the family of Doty.

The excitement on the opening laps brought out the first of two red flags. Terry McCarl of Des Moines crashed head on into the concrete barrier at the foot of the judge’s stand, causing his sprinter to flip numerous times and landing in the middle of the front straightaway at the start/finish line. McCarl was taken to a local hospital for observation.

The second red flag was also because of aa violent crash on the front straightaway. Fred Rahmer Ardsley Park, Penn., who had been plagued with problems since hot laps, flipped violently after making contact with the outside concrete retaining wall. He barrel rolled twice, with several end-over-end flips before landing right side up. He walked away shaken but uninjured.

Results –

Time Trials – Kenny Jacobs (18.840)
Heat #1 – Kenny Jacobs
Heat #2 – Ron Milton
Heat #3 – Todd Bishop
Fast Dash – Kenny Jacobs
B-Main – Rodney Duncan
Feature –
1. Rocky Hodges
2. Kenny Jacobs
3. Rodney Duncan
4. Rod George
5. Joe Gaerte
6. Larry Hillerud
7. Ron Milton
8. Todd Bishop