Sat 25-Oct OCTOBERFAST 2014 - 3rd It was a result that had been witnessed before, but as usual at the Mahoning Valley Speedway (PA) bullring the win did not come easy for Matt Hirschman. Two-time Modified track champion Eric Beers drew the pole after winning his heat race for Octoberfast 2014, and easily looked to be the car to beat pulling ahead from the competition on each restart for the first 99 laps. Coming around to 30 laps to go things would drastically change.After making a pit stop about 50 laps earlier, the first two Octoberfast winners Zane Zeiner and Matt Hirschman began marching through the field and closed on the back of Beers, an April 100-lap race winner at the track. Wall Stadium Speedway (NJ) regular Shawna Ingraham ran up front for the early portion of the night after winning her heat race, but the car began to fade and began to slow immediately before lap 100. Although track officials had motioned the field to slow for a yellow, the reaction time needed between the leaders turned out to be too quick upon approaching Ingraham, setting off a chain reaction. Beers would drift high to avoid her and slow for the caution, and contact ensued from Zeiner sending around the race’s only leader up until that point. In the process, Hirschman received damage due to running into the back of Zeiner as well as contact that occurred behind him. Since the caution was displayed prior to the incident the leaders were allowed to keep their positions; however, Beers was forced to pit with a flat tire. Despite climbing back to a third place finish, the 2013 track champion was not pleased about what happened. “We were just riding and saving the tires, because I knew at the end Matt would be getting there,” Beers told Speed51.com powered by JEGS. “(Ingraham) was on the bottom there. I moved up like four feet and Zane must have thought my car got tight, because he rolled over my left rear tire going into the corner. He just drove right into me and knocked my tire right off the rim.”It was the end to a hard luck season that started off promising, but was filled with ups and downs.“Every week your luck changes,” said Beers. “Last year we got through every wreck, we had no issues with anything, and it’s just one of those deals. It happens, but tonight it sucked because the race track didn’t beat us, none of the racers beat us. We just got taken out by a racer—if you can call him that.”The good news is that unlike the end of last year when he was uncertain of his 2014 plans, the outlook for 2015 is almost set. “It looks like we’re going to be back (at Mahoning) next year,” said Beers. “I have a good time racing here; David and Laura (DeLange) are the greatest car owners I’ve ever had. Great people, nice team here, plus both of my kids are going to be racing here next year.”2013 Octoberfast winner Zeiner acknowledged the unfortunate contact, but claimed there was nothing else he could have done.“I just see it as a racing incident,” explained Zeiner. “I was trying to make the move on Eric for the lead and everything happens so fast, especially here. I didn’t quite see (Ingraham) when we came off the turn. All I heard was (Race Director) Timmy (Santee) yelling ‘yellow, 66’ and by that time I was too late trying to jam on the brakes. Matt (Hirschman) didn’t know what was happening either and we all sort of went in and collided with Eric. Didn’t want to see that, but it happened.”With still another 30 laps remaining to settle who would be hoisting the $5,000 big check, it became a duel between Zeiner and Hirschman. Zeiner would hold the lead until one minor error with 17 laps remaining when Hirschman would dive low and by the next circuit around would have sole possession of the lead on his way to another big win. Runner-up Zeiner still believed he had a better car at the end, but one wrong move ultimately was the difference between first and second.“Believe it or not, I talked to Matt after the race and asked if he was playing with me but that’s all he had,” said Zeiner. “I screwed up and got free off of two and he saw that and took advantage of it and made a nice move. The longer we went it felt like our car got better and he just backed up. I was hoping for another chance to at least take a shot at him but it didn’t happen.”For Hirschman it was another case of being in the right place at the right time and taking full advantage of it, and agreed that Zeiner had a slightly better car on the long run.“I guess you could say Eric got the worst of it, but that could have went any way,” said Hirschman. “All three of us could have been done. That could have been a fourth or fifth place car at that time that could have won because of that. It’s just fortunate the way it worked out the way it did.“It was one of them nights that I really didn’t feel too confident about winning until we took the lead, and even at that point I wasn’t sure if we were going to finish the deal.”This may have also been the swan song for the J&J Motorsports No. 59 that has an exceptional track record in Mahoning events as well as the Tri Track Open Modified Series and more for nearly a decade.“That’s what they say, and if it is I appreciate all the years and wins we had together,” said Hirschman. “I think we’ve been racing together since 06 or 07. I’ll believe it when next year comes around, but either way it was a great way to finish for them for the season and we’ll just see what the off-season brings.”New Jersey drivers Anthony Sesely and Don Wagner rounded out the top five, and Zeiner rebounded from coming up short in the Modified race to win the 60-lap Late Model feature in convincing fashion over Mike Sweeney. It was another night where the best car may not have won in a longer distance race, but the one that made the best out of what they had to work with did.
"MONEY MAN MATT" WINS MAHONING OCTOBERFAST 130 Matt Hirschman Collects $5000 In Season Ending Race
It comes as no surprise that whenever there is an extra distance high paying race at Mahoning Valley Speedway, you can expect Matt Hirschman to be vying for the win. And, when the checkered flag waved on the Gary Lee’s Brown-Daub KIA Octoberfast Modified 130, sure enough there was Hirschman gracing Victory Lane, something that the Northampton driving star has turned into an art form at the paved 1Ž4-mile Lehighton oval.Fresh off a 100 lap win three weeks earlier, Hirschman drove his J & J Motorsports No. 59 to a rousing $5000 triumph, giving him $9000 in that same span. He has become the career wins leader in 100-plus features at the track with 11 total. In July he won a 100 lapper and another $4000.Hirschman, who started ninth, drove by defending Octoberfast winner Zane Zeiner with 17 laps to go and after several side-by-side laps, went to the front uncontested over the final 10 circuits and then onward to score his second win in the season ending racing.“What a way to finish the season here. I wasn’t here much this year but we sure made it count the last three or four times. It was a great run and a great way to finish the season,” said 31-year old Hirschman, who won the inaugural Octoberfast 130 in 2012.“I don’t know if I had the best strategy or even the best car today but it worked out that we won.”For the first 99 laps Eric Beers was far and away the car to beat. From the drop of Bobby Stull’s race commencing green he quickly put everyone in his dust as the Dave and Laura DeLange owned No. 45 had loads of power and Beers wasn’t shy in showing it.There were several who tried to make a challenge such as John Bennett, Nevin George and Earl Paules but none could come close enough to attempt a pass.Then after a restart on lap 44, Austin Kochenash showed his face after putting on a fine run through the pack. He was in second and stuck right with Beers in a stretch of 46 nonstop laps. Although they ran very close, the leader still demonstrated he wasn’t ready to relinquish his stop spot.On lap 90 the action slowed when Kyle Strohl spun in turn two. That yellow would also trigger the start of several more over slowdown periods over the next nine laps that produced drastic changes to the running order.On the restart Kochenash’s hopes of winning where dashed when he got tagged by then third place running Todd Baer and spun.Anthony Sesely had come from 17th and took over second after the demise of Kochenash. Hot on his tail was Zeiner and Hirschman.A few more yellows would wave for minor incidents but then came the game changer on lap 99. Shawna Ingraham had come to a halt on the back straight. As the leaders where coming full steam off turn two the caution was then displayed. With Ingraham sitting idle on the inside lane, Beers had to quickly move up in order to avoid hitting her. In second at that point was Zeiner with Hirschman third.For Zeiner there was little time to react and he made contact with Beers who then spun. Hirschman got caught in as well. Unfortunately for Beers he had to relinquish the lead due to a flat tire.When the action resumed Zeiner was the new pace setter with Hirschman second. They would then go into a torrid dogfight for a number of laps in side-by-side formation. With laps running out Hirschman knew the time to make his move was at hand and after the race winning pass on lap 114, there would be no looking back.“We survived a close call on the back straight with that stack-up. My front bumper is all smashed in and that could have easily been a radiator and we would have been done. I was fortunate that it all worked out,” said Hirschman.“I had to be patient and slowly work our way to the front. I got to about fifth and there was still about 40 laps to go and that’s plenty of time here. We had swapped it back and forth before that and it was good racing against Zane (Zeiner).”Beers drove back to a solid third with Sesely and Don Wagner completing out the top five. Baer, Strohl, Dave Sapienza, Kochenash and George rounded out the top 10.“I slipped up and Matt (Hirschman) got a run underneath us,” said Zeiner. Reflecting on the back straight incident that took out Beers he added, “I really do feel bad for Eric (Beers). That wasn’t supposed to happen. You have a spit-second decision to make and I made a decision and it probably was the wrong decision at the time and hey, I have to live with it.”For the third time in the Octoberfast race Beers had to settle for third. He led last year but was passed by Zeiner with a dozen laps to go.“We had the car to beat tonight,” bottom lined Beers. “I gave him (Zeiner) enough room to see that lapped car and he drove into my left rear and that’s basically what happened. I think I had the field covered tonight but it was just one of those unfortunate things.”
Heat wins went to Chip Santee, Beers, Ingraham and Paules. Sesely annexed the consi.
Modified Feature Finish (130 Laps): 1. Matt Hirschman, 2. Zane Zeiner, 3. Eric Beers, 4. Anthony Sesely, 5. Don Wagner 6. Todd Baer, 7. Kyle Strohl, 8. Dave Sapienza, 9. Austin Kochenash, 10. Nevin George, 11. John Markovic, 12. Bobby Jones, 13. Jimmy Zacharias, 14. John Bennett, 15. Roger Coss, 16. Shawna Ingraham, 17. Rusty Smith, 18. Earl Paules, 19. Andrew Krause, 20. Terry Markovic, 21. Brandon Oltra, 21. Chip Santee, 22. TJ Zacharias DNQ: Wilton Nickerson, Barry Callavini, Pat Verwys, Brent Wentz, Chip Wanamaker
Sat 4-Oct Modified 100L $4000 Points Finale - 11
What a day it was Saturday for Matt Hirschman. He was up bright an early and headed to upstate New York with the intention of competing in the U.S. Open at Lancaster Raceway Park, however, when that show, an R.O.C. Asphalt Modified Tour Series race was canceled due to rain, Hirschman did an about-face back to Pennsylvania and proceeded to Mahoning Valley Speedway.With a 100-lap, $4000 paying Modified feature on tap it was a decision well worth the nearly 600 mile round trip journey. A true master when it comes to extra distance, big money races at Mahoning Valley, Hirschman capped off his arduous trek by taking the checkered flag in a spectacular 20th to first place run.“I just needed a chance. Mother Nature helped us and we had a lot of miles to come from near Buffalo and back to here. But I was confident the whole time as long as I got in the show I could start last and win. It’s been a long day but I’m glad everyone put the effort in,” said Hirschman, who won his second straight Mahoning 100-lapper and 10th overall.Hirschman may not have started last but it was close to it. Once he learned that the Lancaster race was canceled, he immediately called down to Mahoning to say he would be heading their way. Hirschman, who lives just 25 miles from the track, had his Mahoning car already loaded and thanks to a few extra hands, the car was hauled to the speedway waiting his arrival.He made it just as the heats where getting underway and although there was time to run in his qualifier, he opted out and did not get on track until the consi. Starting last, he advanced to fifth and was safely in the show.For the 100-lap feature he would line up in row 10. Once the race began he carefully strategized his every move. Going against a solid field of contenders, making his way to the front would be no easy task. His first big break came on a lap 20 caution as several cars in front of him went pit-side and Hirschman methodically moved up a few spots. Another yellow on lap 33 and another break as several more cars pitted, allowing advances with the J & J Motorsports No. 59, this time reaching into the top 10.All the while Hirschman was working his way to the front, Nevin George was turning in a superb performance as the race leader, building a comfortable lead over such challengers as Earl Paules and Zane Zeiner.On lap 49 George’s commanding lead was wiped out when Don Wagner spun and prompted a caution. At that point Hirschman was running sixth and on the restart he would begin to take action on chasing down the leaders.One by one he picked off cars, taking Roger Coss, Kyle Strohl and Zeiner in succession and was now third by lap 57 and racing closely behind Paules. Meanwhile George continued to cruise out-front and looked invincible.Noticeably, though, Hirschman was on a mission. After a 10 lap duel with Paules he secured second spot and set his sights on George who by that time had a half track lead.Hirschman would get some help from Eric Beers who came to a halt on lap 72 and brought out a caution. When the race got back underway it was a matter of a few laps before he would make his race winning move, taking the lead on the 77th circuit. Once in the lead he effortlessly pulled away and went on to a convincing 3.170-second margin of victory over George. Zeiner, Paules and Strohl completed the top five.“We’ve been fortunate enough to win some of these 100 lap races but this one will be special just because of the day we had and how it worked out. It’s amazing and I love being close to home. We probably put on about 600 miles today but it’s going to be a nice 10 miles to home tonight,” said Hirschman.George did a great job holding off a number of heavy hitters and running one of his best races of the season. However, he admitted that his downfall in the end was tire wear which cost him his shot at winning. “We were really good and we got to the front first soon enough where we had to set the pace and maybe I should have slowed it down a bit. He (Hirschman) clearly had better tires than me in the end. I really think that him being stuck in the back for the first 20 or 30 laps, he was able to capitalize on that with his tires and that was the difference,” said George.With a sixth place finish, Kris Graver becomes the 2014 track champion and at 21 years of age he is the youngest driver to win a Modified title at Mahoning Valley.
Modified Feature Finish (100 Laps): 1. Matt Hirschman, 2. Nevin George, 3. Zane Zeiner, 4. Earl Paules, 5. Kyle Strohl, 6. Kris Graver, 7. Don Wagner, 8. John Markovic, 9. Todd Baer, 10. Chip Santee, 11. Eric Beers, 12. Mike Quinn, 13. Bobby Jones, 14. Brain Romig, 15. Rick Reichenbach, 16. Paul Hartwig Jr., 17. Rusty Smith, 18. Brian DeFebo 19. Joe Mooney, 20. Roger Coss, 21. John Bennett, 22. Francis Gross III DNQ: Anthony Sesely, Pat Verwys, Alan Creveling, Terry Markovic, Matt Higgins
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Nick Baer, 2. Jake Kibler, 3. Dave Chapman, 4. Cody Kohler, 5. Jesse Snyder, 6. Bill Rooney, 7. Jason Muffley, 8. Gary Shock, 9.kailyn Beers DQ: Tyler Stangle
Sat Sept 27: Bob “Heavy” Scherer Memorial 50 Lap Modified feature/$2000 to win - 12
When Roger Heffelfinger Jr., won the Bob “Heavy” Scherer Memorial race Saturday night at Mahoning Valley Speedway, there was so much meaning that went with it. First of all it had been over 27 years since Heffelfinger won a feature at Mahoning Valley. If that wasn’t emotional enough there was the fact of winning the 50 lap event named in honor of Scherer.He was a former racer who drove for the late Dale Beers Sr., his father-in-law. At the start of the 1990s Scherer turned his attention to wrenching for his brother-in-law, Eric Beers, which led to countless wins and track championships. In May of this year Scherer passed away after a brief bout with cancer.There is also the close family connection between the Beers’ and Heffelfinger’s. Roger Heffelfinger Sr., had at one time drove for the elder Beers and even won a memorial race at Dorney Park Speedway in his car, which was the Dale Beers Jr. Memorial. Now some four decades later and Heffelfinger Jr., was gracing Victory Lane in a race that was again affiliated with the Beers clan.“First of all I’m glad the Beers and Scherer family got together along with Floyd Santee and Dave and Laura DeLange to run this race. You never heard a bad word about Heavy Scherer. Everyone liked him, they respected him and he was a true class act,” said Heffelfinger,” who won $2000 in the process.At the outset it was Joe Mooney, driving Geary Rhinehimer’s No. 39m, who led the opening circuits. He was closely followed by Lou Strohl. Strohl was actually running alongside Mooney and that would set the tone for some intense action.After a lap six restart Strohl moved into the lead but just slightly. Keeping pace from the inside groove Mooney was able to grab back the top spot within two laps. Close at hand was Chip Santee while several other top contenders where prowling about near the leaders. Don Wagner, Nevin George, Eric Beers and Kyle Strohl started to come into play.As Mooney continued to fend off L. Strohl, Santee was showing his strength as well as he went even for second spot. Santee’s fight came to a halt when he spun while trying to maintain third over George.On the ensuing restart Mooney still held his ground but for L. Strohl he had a handful to deal with. George, K. Strohl, Beers and Heffelfinger all ran under a blanket with him.Running in such tight quarters, Heffelfinger’s defining moment would come on lap 32. George and L. Strohl touched in turn two sending both of them spinning. K Strohl and Beers would also be collected in the melee sending all four to the tail of the field.Heffelfinger managed to squeeze by and when the action got back underway he was lined up next to Mooney. “Actually what I saw was Kyle Strohl had moved up. When he did Nevin (George) and Lou (Strohl) got sucked in and they tangled,” said Heffelfinger. “When he (K. Strohl) moved up I went to go underneath him. Had he not moved up I probably would have been a half a lane higher and I would have been involved in the accident.”;For the next several laps Heffelfinger gave Mooney everything he had. With his car working perfectly from the outside he finally made the race winning pass with 10 laps remaining.“I give Joe Mooney a lot of credit. We ran side-by-side for so many laps. He gave me a lane to race and he didn’t get into me or rub me. He showed that he’s a racer to me,” said Heffelfinger.That wasn’t the end of his drive, however. In the final four laps Mooney began to back pedal and coming on strong were Bobby Jones and Zane Zeiner. Being away from victory for so long, Heffelfinger wasn’t about to give in as he drove his Performance Driveline No. 31 across the stripe ahead of all others in what was one of the most gratifying wins to ever take place at the paved quarter mile oval. “You can say this was the monkey off our back but to tell the truth 10 gorillas doesn’t equal what’s been on my back. It was a long time coming to say the least,” said Heffelfinger, who last won a race in 1997 at Evergreen Raceway.“Honestly this meant a lot to me. This is the biggest race I ever won just because of what it stood for. I won my share at Evergreen but this was the ONE in my book.”
Jake Kibler took the lead from JD Light on lap 12 and from there he was no match for the rest of the pack, scoring his sixth Pro 4 win of the season. Even though he won it wasn’t enough to keep pace in the points with Nick Baer who’s fourth place tally earned him the division title.
Modified Feature Finish (50 Laps): 1. Roger Heffelfinger Jr., 2. Bobby Jones, 3. Zane Zeiner, 4. Roger Coss, 5. Kris Graver, 6. Joe Mooney, 7. Mike Quinn, 8. Matt Hirschman, 9. Rick Reichenbach, 10. Nevin George, 11. Earl Paules, 12. Eric Beers, 13. Terry Markovic, 14. Don Wagner, 15. Todd Baer, 16. Brian Romig Sr., 17. John Markovic, 18. Chip Santee, 19. Lou Strohl, 20. Kyle Strohl DNQ: Kevin Rex Jr., Brian Romig Jr.
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Jake Kibler, 2. JD Light, 3. Cody Kohler, 4. Nick Baer, 5. Tyler Stangle, 6. Bill Rooney, 7. Bobby Kibler Jr., 8. Jesse Snyder, 9. Dave Chapman, 10. Kailyn Beers, 11. Robert Miller DNS: Gary Shock
Sat 20-Sep Regular show all divisions - 8 Leading the list of feature winners was Lafayette, NJ’s Roger Coss who showed that nice guys do finish first. Coss is one of the most personable, smooth and cleanest racers in the business. He has also fought back from adversity, having crashed hard back in June, missed two weeks to rebuild his car then rebounded steadily in getting back to being a front runner.In the 35-lap Modified feature Coss started fourth and was able to slip underneath early leader Brian Romig with 13 laps complete. He then stayed unruffled the rest of the way for the $1800 triumph.I can’t thank everyone enough, especially the fans who compliment my driving, how clean I am so I guess nice guys do win,” said Coss. “Ever since that (June) wreck and we rebuilt it the car has been great.”; When the event got underway Romig jumped into the lead followed by John Markovic and Coss. It remained in that order until lap 10 when Markovic went high to try and pass Romig. Aiming to protect his spot, Romig stepped up just slightly in order to fend off Markovic. That was all Coss needed as he quickly seized the opening on the bottom groove and surged into the lead at the completion of lap 13. Markovic did get by Romig as did Kyle Strohl. Strohl was strong and if anyone had a shot at getting by Coss it appeared to be him. Strohl had just made a pass for second on lap 18 and the next time around the caution was out for a minor incident. Lining up next to Coss for the restart it was now or never for Strohl. When the race resumed they both ran two-wide but after a few laps Coss showed that this was going to be his night as he powered ahead and left Strohl and all others battle for the second and beyond. “I felt I was better once I got my rhythm going. I knew Kyle (Strohl) was moving up and he got alongside of me earlier in the race so I knew his car was good, but here’s all that matters, being in Victory Lane,” said Coss.“I started racing in 1995 and I’ve won a feature every year since then and I’m cutting it a little close this year but the streak is still going.” Kris Graver finished third and holds a slim lead in the points over Earl Paules with two races remaining. Making his first start of the season, Zane Zeiner had a solid run and was fourth while Markovic rounded out the top five.
With three laps to go Cody Kohler made a daring inside pass for the lead over Bobby Kibler Jr., and went on to score his second straight win and third of the year in the Pro 4 feature. Point leader Nick Baer was second with Dave Chapman third
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. Roger Coss, 2. Kyle Strohl, 3. Kris Graver, 4. Zane Zeiner, 5. John Markovic, 6. Nevin George, 7. Earl Paules, 8. Eric Beers, 9. Don Wagner, 10. Todd Baer, 11. Mike Quinn, 12. Joe Mooney, 13. Chip Santee, 14. Francis Gross III, 15. Bobby Jones, 16. Brain Romig Sr., 17. Terry Markovic, 18. Lou Strohl, 19. Roger Heffelfinger Jr., 20. Wilton Nickerson, 21. Scott Meckes DNQ: Kevin Rex Jr., Brian Romig Jr.
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Cody Kohler, 2. Nick Baer, 3. Dave Chapman, 4. Bill Rooney, 5. JD Light, 6. Jake Kibler, 7. Kailyn Beers, 8. Bobby Kibler Jr., 9. Bobby Kibler Sr., 10. Tyler Stangle, 11. Jason Muffley, DNS: Gary Shock
Sat Sept 13: Bob “Heavy” Scherer Memorial 50 Lap Modified feature/$2000 to win - RAIN Sat 6-Sep Regular show all divisions : RAIN
Sat 30-Aug St Stk Memorial Triple 19s $419 each + all regular divisions +4c Mods $15: 2nd
In what was nothing short of one very thrilling race, Don Wagner eked out a grueling, hard fought win over Kris Graver and Eric Beers and recorded his third win of the season on Saturday night at Mahoning Valley Speedway.The trio made it anyone’s race as they all wheeled under the tight quarter’s right down to the finish. Wagner and Graver went at it at in a two-by-two battle while Beers was persistently peeking to their inside.Wagner, who started from the pole, took the early lead while third starting Graver and fifth starting Beers merged in line with him by completion of lap one. Graver then went to the outside and would have his bumper in front of the pack at the start of lap six.From there he was able to pull to a slightly comfortable lead until the race went under a red flag situation on lap 19. Several cars had tangled on the back straight with the worst of them being Eric Kocher who had a grinding hit against the wall. He was unscathed but his car’s front end was badly mangled.When the race resumed Graver had concerns. Running with an older set of Hoosier tires, he knew the restart would be make or break for him. Unfortunately it would be the latter. While he did hold off Wagner, it was a second restart on lap 22 that would be his demise. It was at that instant Wagner was able to recapture the top spot.“I knew as soon as that red flag came out we were in trouble. We were on used tires so that put an extra heat cycle in them and I knew he (Wagner) was going to be better on the restart because of that and I’m way underpowered compared to him,” said Graver.With a dozen laps to run, Graver, as well as Beers, stayed glued to Wagner. Graver for the most part was right alongside. Beers also had a shot at the lead when the front dual battled off the preferred line and opened up the inside lane. Beers made a brief attempt to pass them but used his better judgment to back off at the last second when room had run out.“It shows that starting on the pole with this group of racers at this place is not easy. This is probably the worst place I can start on the pole. I’m a bad leader and a better follower,” said Wagner.“We’ve been working on our car lately and we want to win races. You win them on the last lap and not the first one lap. We’re strong in the end now.”;While settling for second, Graver has jumped back into the point’s lead over Earl Paules with five races to go. “I’ll take second, we’re in one piece and it was tough work out there. I don’t care about the points. I care about getting the good finishes and bringing it home. I come here to race and that’s what I do,” added Graver.
In Pro 4’s it was Cody Kohler notching a second win of ’14. Kohler led every lap but it was no easy task as he held back the top two class contender Jake Kibler and Nick Baer enroute to the win.
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. Don Wagner, 2. Kris Graver, 3. Eric Beers, 4. Earl Paules, 5. Rick Reichenbach, 6. John Bennett, 7. Kyle Strohl, 8. John Markovic, 9. Nevin George, 10. Chip Santee, 11. Brian Romig, 12. Lou Strohl, 13. Scott Meckes, 14. Mike Quinn, 15. Joe Mooney, 16. Paul Frantz, 17. Bob Snyder, 18. Roger Coss, 19. Eric Kocher, 20. Terry Markovic DNQ: Alan Creveling, Francis Gross III, Joe Stamm
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Cody Kohler 2. Jake Kibler, 3. Nick Baer, 4. JD Light, 5. Bobby Kibler Jr., 6. Dave Chapman, 7. Kevin Hoffman, 8. Chad Miller, 9. Jesse Snyder, 10. Kailyn Beers, 11. Tyler Stangle
Sat 23-Aug Regular show all divisions + Micro Stocks RAIN
Saturday August 16 - Mahoning Speedway - 4th
Lou Strohl Ends Five Year Dry Spell With An Exciting Drive In Mahoning Modified Action It had been five years since veteran Lou Strohl last won a Modified race at Mahoning Valley Speedway but on Saturday night his long overdue visit to Victory Lane came to an end as he posted his33rd career win at the Lehighton paved quarter mile oval and first since May 9, 2009.And oh what a race it was. In the final 10 laps Strohl would battle intensely with another well-experienced hand, John Markovic, trying every way possible to get by. With two laps to run Strohl finally snuck underneath and would hold on for one more lap, earning the very popular win.“That was one awesome race and Johnny (Markovic) and I had one hell of a race. He did what he had to do to protect the lead and I did what I had to do to pass him,” said Strohl.Markovic was leading after eclipsing Scott Meckes from the head of the pack on lap 23. Eighth starting Strohl would follow suite and from then on the dogfight was in motion.Be it high or low Strohl attempted to drive around Markovic but it was no doing as the multi-time champion was steadfast in his protection of first place. Strohl would not give up, however, and showed that he still had the knack of how to win a race, finally gaining the lead with two to go.“Wow what a car I had tonight. That was awesome,” explained Strohl who got his third top five in four races since getting behind the wheel of a second Earl Paules owned car.“There is a lot of talent here and I have to thank Earl Paules for putting me in his car. He still believed in me and I wanted to show him that his decision wasn’t the wrong one.”;Markovic had worked his tail off running with Meckes and then dealing with Strohl. He was just a half car length from a third ’14 win, yet it was a race that had so much excitement and thrills that second place was just as rewarding.“Scott (Meckes) ran me tough and my car was just so tight by the time I got the lead. My hat’s off to Louie (Strohl). He was faster than me and deserved to win. I just gave him the bottom and it’s something I should never have done. I’m glad to see him win.”;Chip Santee ran in the lead group throughout the race and scored third at the finish with Eric Beers and Nevin George completing the top five.
Pro 4 point leader Nick Baer, after making an exciting inside pass on Cody Kohler at lap 14 for the lead, then having to do the same type move on lap 19 over Jake Kibler, went on to score a big 35-lap win. It was his sixth win of the seaso
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. Lou Strohl, 2. John Markovic, 3. Chip Santee, 4. Eric Beers, 5. Nevin George, 6. Scott Meckes, 7. Kyle Strohl, 8. Roger Coss, 9. Kris Graver, 10. Eric Kocher, 11. Earl Paules, 12. Terry Markovic, 13. John Bennett, 14. Joe Mooney, 15. Brain Romig, 16. Mike Quinn, 17. Don Wagner, 18. Jarred Nace, 19. Roger Heffelfinger Jr., 20. Joe Stamm
Pro 4 Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. Nick Baer, 2. Jake Kibler, 3. Dave Chapman, 4. Bobby Kibler Jr., 5. Kevin Hoffman, 6. Cody Kohler, 7. Jesse Snyder, 8. Barry Christman Jr., 9. Chad Miller, 10. Kailyn Beers, 11. TJ Kemmerer, 12. JD Light, 13. Bobby Kibler
Sat 2-Aug Regular show all divisions - 13th Todd Baer won Saturday night’s Modified feature a Mahoning Valley Speedway, his first of the season at the Lehighton paved quarter mile oval and it was quite the thriller as he squared off against hard charging Roger Coss in garnering the verdict.Baer started third and by lap two pulled behind leader Chip Santee. He then took the lead on a lap six restart but was far from in the clear as Coss took over second on lap eight and from there to the finish they engaged in an exciting dogfight. Coss was looking at every possible angle to wheel by but Baer was able to shield himself lap after lap. Even on the final lap Coss would make one last try by peeking inside through the final two corners but the effort would fall short and the victory was Baer’s in what was a good, clean hard fought race between them. The margin of victory was a mere .156-second.“Roger (Coss) gave it a hell of shot there at the end and I can’t blame him for anything, we both had to do what we had to do,” said Baer. “He was giving me all kinds of pressure and I just figured I need to run my line and hope that this would be the outcome.”; That line meant trying to stay low but with Coss’ persistent attacking Baer required his car to ride in both high and low groove’s as his course of defense.“We tried a couple new things with the setup. My crew chief Kevin Hoffman had a few ideas and I was strapping in the car and still disagreeing on what to do. He (Hoffman) won so I won. You come to this place and it’s all out to the end,” said Baer. It was undeniably a tough loss for the affable Coss. In the previous event, a 100 lapper, Coss passed Baer for the lead and was cruising out front until 12 laps from the end when a power steering hose let go, yielding the lead to eventual winner Matt Hirschman. Although he has had regular finishes this season in the top five, he seems to be snake bitten when it comes to the elusive top spot.“Other than wrecking him (Baer) which I wouldn’t do there wasn’t much else I could have done out there,” said Coss. “We were so close the last time we raced and then so close tonight, I don’t know what more we need to do to get a win. We’ll get there but it’s such a heartbreaker. Todd did a good job and we’ll come back and try again next week.”; With his third place finish Earl Paules has moved back into the point lead. Santee and Lou Strohl rounded out the top five.
Jake “The Snake” Kibler steered away from a bevy of bumping and banging in the Pro 4 feature and won for a fifth time this season. Kibler took the lead after nipping Tyler Stangle at the conclusion of lap one. Although Stangle and Dave Chapman would stay in pursuit, Kibler was way too strong for them both as neither could step in mount a serious effort.
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. Todd Baer, 2. Roger Coss, 3. Earl Paules, 4. Chip Santee, 5. Lou Strohl, 6. Kris Graver, 7. Kyle Strohl, 8. Nevin George, 9. Don Wagner, 10. Scott Meckes, 11. Brain Romig, 12. Chris Young, 13. Eric Beers, 14. Terry Markovic, 15. John Markovic
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Jake Kibler, 2. Dave Chapman, 3. Tyler Stangle, 4. Bill Rooney, 5. Jason Muffley, 6. Bobby Kibler Jr., 7. Nick Baer, 8. Jesse Snyder, 9. Chad Miller, 10. Kailyn Beers, 11. Cody Kohler, 12. Eric Dandeluck
Sat 2-Aug Regular show all divisions - RAIN
Sat 26-Jul Mods 100L $3500 + all regular divisions- 9th When it comes to 100 lap Modified features at Mahoning Valley Speedway, Matt Hirschman knows a thing or two about winning them and he showed his prowess yet again in the popular extra distance runs when he drove his J & J Motorsports No. 59 to a 10th career 100 lap victory Saturday night worth $3500. Coming from 15th, Hirschman used a restart with 11 laps to go to get by impressive Roger Coss and then went on to his 12th Mahoning win. Talk about biding you time, Hirschman never entered the top 10 until just prior to halfway but once he did there was no stopping his charge to the front. In a fast paced race that had minimum cautions, Hirschman took advantage of long green flag runs to pick off cars.Just ten laps after motoring into the top 10, he only needed another 10 to crack the top 5. After that there was a holdup as he was gripped in a close battle with Don Wagner, Lou Strohl and Earl Paules. While that was taking place, Coss, who had been out front since lap 22, was cruising way ahead of the pack. For all intent and purposes, this was his race. After he took the lead from Todd Baer, Coss established himself as the car to beat. He built a lead of over three seconds and only saw challenges when the field would regroup under a caution, which wasn’t often.Meanwhile Hirschman stayed focused to racing hard to get by cars. Strohl was taken care of on lap 62 and then Wagner in another two afterwards. That left just Paules to handle before pursuing the leader but this would take a little time. Once again with a stretch of green flag laps Hirschman finally raced by Paules with 15 to go. Coss was still cruising comfortably but it was evident that Hirschman had the afterburners on. Right after Hirschman drove to second spot, a billow of smoke released from Coss’s front end. A power steering hose had come loose. However, there still seemed enough time for him to hold on as 11 laps remained. Unfortunately, the caution was out as Kris Graver slammed hard into the back straight wall. It would be on that restart that Hirschman would make the determining pass for the win.“Actually the deciding factor was just breaking through the pack. It was real close with five or six of us right together. We were able to break through and reel in the top three,” said Hirschman.“The 17 (Coss) was smoking and I’m not sure what it was. I had almost caught him when the caution came out. I don’t know what would have happened had that yellow not waved. 15th to first is nothing to shake your head at. There was a lot of good battling in the pack.”;It also marked the end of a two month dry spell for the Northampton Modified star who last won in May when he won five straight races.“Man, I’ve been in a slump and there’s nothing better than coming home and winning one here. Hopefully this gets our season turned back round. It’s always such a great crowd and I miss racing at Mahoning Valley,” said Hirschman.John Markovic got second while Paules, L. Strohl and Kyle Strohl rounded out the top five.
Modified Feature Finish (100 Laps): 1. Matt Hirschman, 2. John Markovic, 3. Earl Paules, 4. Lou Strohl, 5. Kyle Strohl, 6. Nevin George, 7. Todd Baer, 8. Brian DeFebo, 9. Eric Beers, 10. Roger Coss, 11. Brian Romig, 12. Scott Meckes, 13. Kris Graver, 14. Don Wagner, 15. Bobby Jones, 16. Chip Santee, 17. Terry Markovic, 18. Joe Stamm, 19. Matt Wentz, 20. Brain Sones DNQ: Kevin Rex Jr., Pat Verwys
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. JD Light, 2. Nick Baer, 3. Bill Rooney, 4. Chad Miller, 5. Jake Kibler, 6. Cody Kohler, 7. Jesse Snyder, 8. Kailyn Beers, 9. Tyler Stangle
Sat 19-Jul Regular show all divisions + ATQMRA- WIN
Eric Beers Puts A Halt To Kris Graver’s Win Streak
Three weeks ago Eric Beers was involved in an altercation that did something which has rarely occurred over the course of his career, it sidelined him due to a busted left hand.One week as a spectator was more than he could take. Beers returned to finish a solid sixth the next race out and was back in top form on Saturday night as he easily went on to win for a fourth time this season.“My hand is still a little sore but winning makes it a lot easier to deal with,” said Beers, who has now won 40 Modified features at Mahoning Valley.During Beers’ brief downslide, Kris Graver emerged as the star, winning three straight weeks and taking over as the point leader. Graver was leading yet again but two laps after a lap 21 restart, Beers simply powered by and drove on to victory. “Kris (graver) has been kicking everyone’s butt the last month and I just wanted to show him that I’m still a bit of the king and he’ll have to work harder,” said Beers.When the race began Roger Coss took the early lead and had Lou Strohl tracking him. Kyle Strohl and Graver raced alongside each other while in the shadows of the front two.One of the cleanest, smoothest drivers in the business, Coss was enjoying his best run to date. He nicely held off L. Strohl and began to pull ahead of the pack. Graver took over second by lap nine and was starting to reel in Coss.The first caution waved on lap 18 when L. Strohl spun in turn two. It was a big break for Graver as on the restart he was able to hustle by Coss. With Graver leading there was an immediate feel of a fourth win in the past five races. But, when Graver took over the lead, Beers also passed Coss and then sprang right towards the front-runner.A second and final caution then came out with 20 laps complete. On the continuation Graver protected his spot but Beers was able to overtake him the next time around. Once in front there was no countering from as Beers pulled away for the win.“I sat in the grandstands two weeks ago and watched these guys out here and it wasn’t easy for me,” admitted Beers. “The long runs actually helped us dice through the field. Our car was hooked up tonight.” Graver, K. Strohl, Coss and Nevin George completed the top five. “Eric Beers has been doing this longer than I’ve been alive and he had the better car. I can’t make up excuses. We’ll just have to go home and do our homework a little bit better and hopefully we’ll be able to come back and get him next time,” said Graver.
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. Eric Beers, 2. Kris Graver, 3. Kyle Strohl, 4. Roger Coss, 5. Nevin George, 6. Earl Paules, 7. Bobby Jones, 8. Don Wagner, 9. Lou Strohl, 10. Brain Romig, 11. John Bennett, 12. Kevin Rex Jr., 13. Brandon Kressler, 14. Rick Reichenbach, 15. Scott Meckes, 16. Terry Markovic, 17. John Markovic, 18. Mike Quinn, 19. Todd Baer, 20. Chip Santee DNQ: Jim Bojohnny, Joe Mooney
Sat 12-Jul Regular show all divisions + Small Car Enduro - 6th
Once again Kris Graver topped the Modified field at Mahoning Valley Speedway, winning for a third straight weekend and with this score came a bonus as he becomes the new point leader.After prevailing in the first of Twin 50 lap features on June 21, Graver has parked in Victory Lane every week since. Along with his three Modified conquests is a SpeedSTR victory on June 29.In this, his third Modified success run of the year, arguably it was his toughest as a very thrilling feature took place. Graver battled with early leader Brian Romig until six laps to go. That’s when he went to Romig’s outside and took control. He then had to retain Nevin George at the finish.“Wow! I guess you could say this has been my month. It would be awesome if I could keep doing this but it’s getting tougher and tougher,” said Graver, who won $1800 for his effort.“Its only halfway into the season and it’s way too early to be worrying about points. I’m more focused on bringing the car home in one piece and collecting the money, that’s what we need the most.”;Chip Santee led for the first three laps then Romig made a pass for the lead and was looking to notch his career first win at the track. As he led, the opposition on his rear tail was as fierce as could be, with Santee, Kyle Strohl, George and Graver all packed together.That was pretty much the tone for the race, close tight action, and for the second half it became even more intensified. Romig was clinging to the lead while Strohl and Graver went two-wide for second. Then George got into the thick of things. Four cars with 10 laps to go and anyone’s guess as to who would win.With six to go Graver stepped it up and throttled by Romig for the lead. With four laps remaining George did the same and then hung on his rear bumper right to the finish.“I really had to work hard for it tonight. Everyone really ran strong. Brian (Romig) ran me very clean as did everyone,” said Graver.Strohl came in third while Romig had a season high fourth. Lou Strohl completed the top five
Dave Chapman crossed the finish line first in the Pro 4 feature but what would have been his second feature was negated after he failed post-race inspection.Leading from the outset, Chapman was holding his own until point leader Nick Baer zeroed in on him with five laps to go and stayed glued to the checkered flag. The win was awarded to Baer, his fifth of the year.
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. Kris Graver, 2. Nevin George, 3. Kyle Strohl, 4. Brian Romig, 5. Lou Strohl, 6. Eric Beers, 7. Todd Baer, 8. Chip Santee, 9. Scott Meckes, 10. Kevin Rex Jr., 11. Brandon Oltra, 12. Bobby Jones, 13. Earl Paules, 14. Roger Coss, 15. Don Wagner, 16. Todd Geist, 17. Joe Mooney Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Dave Chapman, 2. Nick Baer, 3. Jake Kibler, 4. Cody Kohler, 5. Jason Muffley, 6. Chad Miller, 7. Kailyn Beers, 8. Jesse Snyder DNS: Tyler Stangle
During two incidents on Saturday June 28th Eric got his thumb caught in the steering wheel and is being evaluated and what is causing the swelling. Stay tuned
July 5 - Mahoning Regular show Talk about being on a roll. Lehighton’s Kris Graver has won for a third straight week and second time in a Modified.The second year division driver has been wicked fast in the past month. In four features over a three week span he clicked off two Modified victories and was second and fifth in the others. Plus he annexed the SpeedSTR victory last Sunday. In the process Graver has pocketed in excess of $7000 in earnings and is only 14 points behind standings leader Earl Paules.“The wins are good but we need the cash more than anything. Personally I don’t worry about the points. As long as I get the good finishes then the points will come right along with it,” said 21-year old Graver.Starting 10th, by lap five Graver was in the top five. Racing at the front was Lou Strohl who had Chip Santee right next to him as well as Kyle Strohl. Santee and K. Strohl went back and forth for second while also in two-wide action was Nevin George and Graver. Frontrunner L. Strohl was trying to end a five year winless spell but Santee and K. Strohl where making it extremely difficult on him. Still he managed to guard himself against the nonstop blitz.As the race was nearing the end, things looked as though L. Strohl was going to pull off the overdue win. However, the unending battle between K. Strohl and Santee became a three car fight after Graver replaced George for fourth and the pressure on the leader now tripled. For Santee, he backed out of the fight due to a broken sway bar. That gave Graver the chance to take third on lap 27. With four laps to go he passed K. Strohl and one lap later made quick work of L. Strohl with a turn three pass the next time around. Graver and L. Strohl did touch slightly but stayed concentrated on their route.“I’m pretty sure we touched a little bit. I knew if I would have pulled alongside of Louie (Strohl) he would have got a little antsy. It was just racing. We were really close and we’re turning 9-seocnd laps and you can’t help that, you’re going to bump and bang,” noted Graver.K. Strohl nipped L. Strohl on the final lap while George and Don Wagner rounded out the top five.Graver almost made it three weeks in a row of winning with the Modified. He was leading in last Saturday night’s main when Wagner sprung past him on a restart with four laps to go and he settled for second.“This really helps to put all that behind us. Like I said I can’t thank my crew enough and we have this thing honking right now,” said Graver.“These past few weeks have been amazing. I needed just a little bit of room to get by Chip (Santee) there. I got that room and then took off,” said Graver.
ake Kibler won a Pro 4 feature for a fourth time this season but he felt he didn’t have the best car in doing. Watching him lead every lap one would beg to differ.
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. Kris Graver, 2. Kyle Strohl, 3. Lou Strohl, 4. Nevin George, 5. Don Wagner, 6. Earl Paules, 7. Kevin Rex Jr., 8. Brandon Oltra, 9. John Markovic, 10. Rick Reichenbach, 11. Brian Romig, 12. Chip Santee, 13. Todd Baer, 14. Mike Quinn, 15. Roger Coss, 16. Terry Markovic, 17. Joe Mooney
Pro 4 Feature Finish (18 Laps): 1. Jake Kibler, 2. Nick Baer, 3. JD Light, 4. Jesse Snyder, 5. Chad Miller, 6. Tyler Stangle, 7. Cody Kohler, 8. Kailyn Beers DNS: Dave Chapman
Sat 28-Jun Regular show all divisions : 18th
Don Wagner won for the second time this year in the Modifieds but never mind that he almost lost it control when he got into Lou Strohl while racing for the lead. Never mind the fact that he and Kris Graver had one whale of a battle. And never mind that when he took the lead from Graver after a restart with six laps to go that there were some who felt he may have jumped.No, the first thing he spoke about after exiting his car was his son, DJ Wagner, who raced to a second place tally in his very first Street Stock feature. “Let’s talk about my kid. I’m so proud of him. I have so much respect for the Street Stock division here. It’s such a close-knit field of cars and they run very clean. Floyd (Santee, promoter) and I were watching them run three wide at times and the respect they show for each other is amazing,” said Wagner. And what about that Modified race? Wagner and Graver simply amazed the crowd with their continuous two-wide racing that began on lap nine and lasted until lap 29 when the final caution waved.Graver had been holding off the advances of Wagner but when they lined up for the final restart, Wagner spurted past and took the lead which led him to the win.“I’m sure there where some sparks flying but that’s why we have bumpers. We can loosen each other up and not turn each other around and race good and hard,” commented Wagner.Graver was fresh off a 50-lap win the previous week and had a prime opportunity to go for another conquest. He had taken the lead from Wagner on lap nine and then made good use to the bottom lane to protect his spot. He and Wagner would essentially run side-by-side from there on until the caution flag flew at lap 29.As the green waved to restart the race Wagner dashed by Graver and made him settle for second. “I don’t know how they (officials) let that last restart go but it is what it is. We’ll take this and move on. I have to thank my crew and sponsors for keeping me coming here again and again. Sooner or later I’m sure we’ll get another win. The car is in one piece and I’m trying to think positive,” said Graver.Roger Coss was a very close third with John Markovic and Bobby Jones rounding out the top five.Taking sixth was Earl Paules and coupled with the 18th place tally of Eric Beers, he took over the point lead for the first time since his championship season of 2012.Beers was involved in a lap 28 altercation that put him out to the event. When he got back to his pit it was discovered that he had badly sprained his left hand and went to the emergency room for further evaluation.
Pro 4 point leader Nick Baer took the lead on lap six and once there let everyone else sort out the spots behind him as he went on to his fourth victory of the season. While Baer was leading numerous cautions waved as cars where beating and banging and because of that the race was called two laps short of the original 20 lap distance.
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. Don Wagner, 2. Kris Graver, 3. Roger Coss, 4/John Markovic, 6. Bobby Jones, 6. Earl Paules, 7. Nevin George 8. Joe Mooney, 9. Matt Wentz, 10. Lou Strohl, 11. Kyle Strohl, 12. Brian DeFebo, 13. Scott Meckes, 14. Brandon Oltra, 15. Brian Romig, 16. Chip Santee, 17. Gene Bowers, 18. Eric Beers, 19. Brandon Kressler, 20. Terry Markovic DNQ: Bob Snyder
Pro 4 Feature Finish (18 Laps): 1. Nick Baer, 2. Tyler Stangle, 3. Jake Kibler, 4. Chad Miller, 5. Kailyn Beers, 6. Jesse Snyder, 7. Cody Kohler, 8. JD Light, 9. Dave Chapman
June 21 MahoningSpeedway - Twin 50's - 12th and Win Kris Graver and Eric Beers shared the wealth during the Twin 50s Modified features on Saturday night at Mahoning Valley Speedway, each earning $2000 for their respective victories.Graver’s win was his first of the season with the class. He came into the night having had some very decent outings including three of his four top five finishes in third place. Beers, who is the point leader, notched his third verdict of ’14 and it may very well have been considered one of the hardest fought wins of his career as he and Nevin George had an amazing battle. In race one Brian Romig led the first two laps but then Graver, who started second, went to the front. The sophomore Modified driver then had several others step in to challenge and each time he boldly shielded his place.Romig kept with him Graver for quite a few laps but then gave way to Scott Meckes. Roger Coss also moved up and was racing together with Meckes. While those two wrestled for second, Graver was able to comfortably maintain first place with just enough of a gap ahead of them.Coss finally took over second by mid-race but his only legitimate shots at Graver would come during restarts.However, the 2013 Rookie of the Year was making his first time leading this season count and drove to a solid win. “I finally got out front and actually showed what the car can do. The car’s been awesome, we just haven’t been catching breaks. I have to give all the credit to my crew and it was great racing with Roger Coss, he’s someone you know you can always race clean with,” said Graver. For the second 50 the field was inverted with Kyle Strohl and Brandon Oltra sharing the front row. When the action began Strohl jumped out front first but Oltra used his momentum from the outside lane to take over on lap three and lead a feature for the first time at Mahoning Valley.Austin Kochenash was quick to get by Strohl for second and then had a clear shot at Oltra on a lap six restart. However, as he was making a valid attempt for the lead, there was some subsequent bumping with everyone so tightly grouped. Kochenash got out of shape and with the approaching traffic he was unable to make a save and veered into the front straight wall, ending his run. On the restart Oltra had Strohl next to him but George, who has been plenty fast in recent weeks, made quick work of the rookie and took second. Oltra then had a handful as George was insistently forceful in his bid to get by.The opportunity came to George after a lap nine restart. Beers was now third and also had a spell in getting around Oltra, needing every bit of the next ten laps to do so.Once Beers got behind George it became a very intense contest. George was doing all he could to resist as Beers tried every angle possible to make a pass. Seeing that the outside wasn’t the way, Beers drove to the low lane and with eight laps to go he was finally able to put his No. 45 out-front. Not backing down George kept his front bumper right on Beers and did all he could to reclaim the lead but it was not to be. Beers just barely took the checkers for his 39th career Mahoning win. “That was one tough race. Hats off to Nevin, he ran a great race. He’s one of the classiest guys you can race with here. He runs you to the brink of no room but he’ll give you just enough,” said Beers.“We just snuck under him and then ran clean side-by-side from there on. I lost power steering by lap four so it was a bear to drive but I manned up and brought it home.”;
If ever there was a driver who had to fight hard for his career first win it was Cody Kohler. On two green-white-checker runs he was over taken but each time the passer lost control and spun. The third time was charm as he stood solid and held on for the elusive first win.
1st Modified Feature Finish (50 Laps): 1. Kris Graver, 2. Roger Coss, 3. Scott Meckes, 4. Earl Paules, 5. Don Wagner, 6. John Markovic, 7. Brian DeFebo, 8. Nevin George, 9. Brian Sones, 10. Brian Romig, 11. Austin Kochenash, 12. Eric Beers, 13. Brandon Oltra, 14. Kyle Strohl, 15. Matt Wentz, 16. Chip Santee, 17. Lou Strohl, 18. Terry Markovic, 19. Todd Baer, 20. Randall Richard DNQ: Mike Quinn, Joe Mooney, Gene Bowers, Pat Verwys
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Cody Kohler, 2. Jesse Sndyer, 3. Tyler Stangle, 4. Bobby Kibler, Jr., 5. Nick Baer, 6. Kailyn Beers, 7. Dave Chapman DNS: Jake Kibler
June 14 MahoningSpeedway - 10
John Markovic is off to his best season in years. Saturday night he became a winner for the second time this year and for the first time in over a decade he has recorded multiple wins in the same season. The celebrated veteran used a lap 15 restart to get by Scott Meckes for the lead and then had to hold back a strong effort by Earl Paules and Nevin George en route to the victory.Meckes shot to the early lead and took command of the race by pulling to a huge lead. Brian Romig was keeping second while sixth starter Markovic, Chip Santee and George where putting the strain on him. With ten laps complete Markovic finally got by Romig. Two laps later Meckes’ big gap was wiped out when the caution waved after Kris Graver had a hard hit against the back stretch wall.On the restart Meckes was able to hold off Markovic. However, when the field was reset for a second time three laps later, the re-go went the way of Markovic and Santee followed. The two prominent champions then wheeled around the in close two-wide fashion.On lap 24 there was another slowdown period and when the action resumed Markovic moved up just enough to make a bump on Santee who then got a bit loose. With the field heading full steam into turn one, Santee was trying to correct his car but the back end broke loose and into a spin he went. One of the on-comers then struck him and in turn his left front wheel assembly broke and ended a strong run.“I really didn’t mean to get into Chip (Santee). We were side-by-side and I slipped up a little bit. He’s a good friend of mine and I feel awful about that,” said Markovic.Meckes was now next to Markovic as too were George and Paules from his rear bumper. In the final 11 laps there would be no room for error as they all raced tightly packed together. As Markovic showed the way there was quite the clash for second. Paules would finally get around Meckes with four laps to go. Try as he may he could not get past Markovic who went on to score his 34th feature win at Mahoning Valley. It was the second straight runner-up for Paules.“I just tried to protect the bottom as best I could after I got the lead. I’m really happy,” said Markovic. “It’s a tough group of racers here and I respect them and love racing with them all.”;George nipped Meckes on the final lap to take third with Mike Quinn completing the top five.
In the Pro 4s it was Jake Kibler scoring his third win of 2014. Kibler passed Bobby Kibler, Jr., for the lead on lap two and then fought off Tyler Stangle and Nick Bare the rest of the way.
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. John Markovic, 2. Earl Paules, 3. Nevin George, 4. Scott Meckes, 5. Mike Quinn, 6. Todd Baer, 7. Lou Strohl. 8. Brandon Oltra, 9. Kyle Strohl, 10. Eric Beers, 11. Brian Romig, 12. Terry Markovic, 13. Don Wagner, 14. Rick Reichenbach, 15. Vinny Biondolillo, 16. Chip Santee, 17. Kris Graver
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Jake Kibler, 2. Tyler Stangle, 3. Nick Baer, 4. Bobby Kibler, Sr., 5. Bobby Kibler, Jr., 6. Jesse Snyder, 7. Cody Kohler, 8. Kailyn Beers DNS: Dave Chapman
June 7 Mahoning- Fan Appreciation - $8 Ticket - 12 14-year Old Kyle Strohl Is The Real Deal…Wins Second Mahoning Modified Feature In 8th Starts
He’s done it again. 14-year old Kyle Strohl of Palmerton won for a second time this season with a Modified, backing up his first victory from April 26. On Baltimore Life Insurance Fan Appreciation Night, the rookie showed a great crowd and his competitors that he is indeed, “The Real Deal.”;When he won that first race he defeated none other than track champion Eric Beers. This time it was another champ whom he got the better of, Earl Paules K. Strohl started on the front next to Lou Strohl (no relation) and once the action got underway he was planted firmly in second.Early in the race Chip Santee kept pace with the front two until his car tightened and gradually slipped back. Earl Paules raced by Santee on lap 11 which, on the same circuit, a caution waved for a skirmish between point leader Beers and Troy Bollinger.It was on the restart that K. Strohl made his move for the lead after L. Strohl got loose just as the field was completing lap 12. With the advantage of running on the outside lane, K. Strohl whizzed past and into the top spot.“I was just bidding my time and waiting for the right moment to make a pass on Lou (Strohl). When he got loose I knew that was my chance and I took it,” said K. Strohl.Paules and Don Wagner also drove by L. Strohl and the two well-versed veterans began a torrid pursuit on the young talent. Paules was glued his bumper and year of experience notwithstanding, the kid kept him at bay. “What an amazing feeling to win with a Modified again. We had a real good car in the heat and it stayed perfect throughout the feature,” said K. Strohl.“To be able to beat guys like Earl Paules and Don Wagner is unbelievable to me. We’re still learning things about the Modified and I can’t thank my dad and all the crew for the work they put into all this.”Paules did all he could but had to settle for second. He made several stabs at the lead and with laps running out a caution with five to go gave an edge to the winner as it was a single file restart which made things just a bit easier to the finish.“I was just protecting the bottom line,” said K. Strohl.
In the Pro 4s Nick Baer has done it again, winning for a second straight week and third time this year. Baer ran behind early leader Bobby Kibler, Jr., and waited until two laps to go to make his move for the lead. Afterwards he cruised to his unprecedented seventh straight top two finish.
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. Kyle Strohl, 2. Earl Paules, 3. Don Wagner, 4. Lou Strohl, 5. Brandon Oltra, 6. Kris Graver, 7. Scott Meckes, 8. Todd Baer, 9. Rick Reichenbach, 10. Chip Santee, 11. Terry Markovic, 12. Eric Beers, 13.Brian Romig, 14. Nevin George, 15. John Markovic, 16. Brent Wentz, 17. Brandon Kressler, 18. Jim Bojohnny, 19. Troy Bollinger
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Nick Baer, 2. Jesse Snyder, 3. Jake Kibler, 4. Tyler Stangle, 5. Bobby Kibler, Jr., 6. Chad Miller, 7. Kailyn Beers, 8. Cody Kohler DQ: Dave Chapman
31 Sat May Mahoning Speedway Double 30's - $1500 to win each - 2nd and 8th Regular Modified 35 lap features at Mahoning Valley Speedway are filled with excellent action and drivers know they must work hastily to get the job done. However, take away five laps and the level of intensity for the checkered flag becomes increasingly higher. That’s exactly what fans got too and not once but twice as Twin-30 lap races showcased the cream of the crop.Don Wagner and Nevin George scored the popular wins respectively and took home $1500 each for their efforts.In the first race Wagner had to pull out all the stops in order to fend off Eric Beers while the nightcap saw George withstand several restart attempts by Chip Santee in pulling off his second win in three weeks.In the first 30 Wagner started outside of Terry Markovic on the front row and immediately darted into the lead once the action began. Within in a lap’s time he had heavy company from Kris Graver and the twosome where then locked in a sizzling battle for the lead. Add Earl Paules into the mix and that mention of high intensity became clear. At the same time John Markovic and Eric Beers ran side-by-side right behind the front trio.By the halfway mark Wagner was able to shake off Graver. Part of that came from Graver slugging it out with Paules. Beers and Markovic never ceased their duel as well.As the start of the last ten laps began, Beers knew that time would be of the essence and went to work, first clearing himself from Markovic and then powering past Paules and Graver.A week prior Beers had taken the lead from Wagner and drove on to win. This time, however, Wagner wasn’t budging. Beers would try everything he could to race around but it would not happen. He nearly pulled off a pass numerous times in turn two but Wagner was getting better grip in (turns) three and four.In the end Wagner held on by a bumper and ended a 35 race winless streak.The second 30 lapper was lined up by inverting the top 15 from race one and George was both lucky and good. With four laps to go in race one he spun while racing for fourth with John Markovic. That was a blessing in disguise as he wound up as the pole sitter for the second feature.Once underway George took control and was being tailed by Santee. Several times Santee would try the outside but George was quick to shield him off.Restarts also became a factor in this contest. Seeing that George had Santee covered under green flag racing, the next best thing would be on two abreast restarts but try as he may, including the final time with six laps to go, George again laid down the power to keep the front spot and go on to collect the victory.
1st Modified Feature Finish (30 Laps): 1. Don Wagner, 2. Eric Beers, 3. Kris Graver, 4. John Markovic, 5. Earl Paules, 6. Brian DeFebo, 7. Kyle Strohl, 8. Brandon Oltra, 9. Terry Markovic, 10. Eric Kocher, 11. Brian Romig, 12. Mike Quinn, 13. Chip Santee, 14. Lou Strohl, 15. Nevin George, 16. Joe Stamm, 17. Troy Bollinger, 18. Roger Coss, 19. Matt Wentz, 20. Scott Meckes DNS: Rick Reichenbach
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Nick Baer, 2. Dave Chapman, 3. Jake Kibler, 4. Jesse Snyder, 5. Robert Miller, 6. Tyler Stangle, 7. Cody Kohler, 8. Kailyn Beers, 9. Chad Miller, 10. Bobby Kibler, Jr.
Bob “Heavy” Scherer Passing
(NORTHAMPTON, PA 5-25-14) Bob “Heavy” Scherer, a longtime fixture on the Eastern Pennsylvania asphalt short track circuit, passed away on Saturday evening, May 24 after a brief bout with cancer.A former driver, 57-year old Scherer is best recognized for his years of work as the chief mechanic for his brother-in-law, champion pavement Modified star Eric Beers.Scherer passed away while in hospice care shortly after Beers had won that same evening’s Modified feature at Mahoning Valley Speedway.“I’ve known him (Scherer) since I was six years old. I watched him race growing up and watched him in the garage with his work ethic, everything he did throughout his life. To find out the news two weeks ago that he had cancer, it makes you cherish every moment you have we each other,” said Beers, who dedicated the win to Scherer.“If it wasn’t for him I wouldn’t have one career victory. He puts our cars together and throughout the winter he works countless hours and is irreplaceable.”;As a member of the infamous “Beers Gang” Scherer started racing for the late Dale Beers in a Late Model at Dorney Park Speedway. He then progressed into a Modified at Dorney, did some dirt racing at Nazareth and returned to the pavement at Mahoning Valley Speedway and Evergreen Raceway. His final win took place on June 3, 1989 at Mahoning.Afterwards he began working hand-in-hand with Eric Beers as his career was beginning at that period. As the top wrench for Beers, wins started to come early and often. Scherer was instrumental in Beers’ twice being track titlist at Mahoning and Evergreen as well as his success with the RoC Pavement and NASCAR Modified Tours. A crowning moment came in 2004 when Beers won the Sunoco Race of Champions 200. He was quick to credit Scherer for the work he performed on his car that memorable day.In the past few years while Beers was racing on the NASCAR Modified Tour for the DeLange Racing Team, Scherer opted to stay at home but his nightly efforts in the garage played a key to the on track achievements.Scherer also put his expertise to good use with the third generation of Beers racers, Kailyn and Austin, when they began running Quarter Midgets at Blue Mountain. Kailyn now races in the Pro 4 division at Mahoning Valley and Scherer had his hands in that car’s set-up as well.He is survived by his wife, JoAnn and three daughters, Bobbi Jo, Beverly and Brandi. His viewing will be held on Tuesday evening, May 27 from 6-8 pm at Reichel Funeral Home, 326 E 21st St, Northampton, PA 18067. There will also be a viewing on Wednesday, May 28 from 11-12 am. The service will follow at the funeral home.
24 Sat May Mahoning Speedway Mods - WIN For Eric Beers, his win in Saturday’s Mahoning Valley Speedway Modified main was all about Bob “Heavy” Scherer, his brother-in-law and longtime crew member who was under hospice care, suffering from cancer.Thus when Beers took his place on the starting grid he knew there would be only one position he would settle for.Starting eighth, he took advantage of a lap 17 restart to unseat Don Wagner and after some close action with Earl Paules, pulled away to his second win of the season.In victory lane a teary eyed Beers was surrounded by family and friends all overcome with emotion.“I’ve known him (Scherer) since I was six years old. I watched him race growing up and watched him in the garage with his work ethic, everything he did throughout his life. To find out the news two weeks ago that he had cancer, it makes you cherish every moment you have we each other,” said Beers in dedicating the race to Scherer.“If it wasn’t for him I wouldn’t have one career victory. He puts our cars together and throughout the winter he works countless hours and is irreplaceable.”;Sadly, by the end of the evening as teams where filing out of the track, Beers got the call that Scherer had passed away.When the race began pole sitter Wagner jumped out to the early lead and was quickly in defense mode as Paules was looking to get by in any way possible. Kyle Strohl turned the race into an excellent three car battle. Just as it seemed Wagner and Paules would be the ones dueling for the lead, Strohl slipped under Paules and started after Wagner.Beers burst onto the scene by lap 14 as he went by Paules and two laps later his victim was Strohl. Far from done, he hunted down Wagner and was just about to strike when the caution flew on lap 17.A break for Wagner yes, but on the restart there was no question where this feature was headed. Beers got the lead and then left no guessing as to who had the strongest car.“We were on a mission from the start and weren’t holding back anything. I wanted to win this so bad for him (Scherer). Earl (Paules) and Donny (Wagner) are some of the toughest guys here and they didn’t make it easy,” said Beers who won for the 38th time at Mahoning. Paules, Wagner, Kris Graver and Nevin George rounded out the top five.
In the Pro 4 event it was Tyler Stangle who captured a long overdue career first win. Stangle had to hold back the repeated challenges of Nick Baer and did so perfectly in finally earning his place victory lane.
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. Eric Beers, 2. Earl Paules, 3. Don Wagner, 4. Kris Graver, 5. Nevin George, 6. Bobby Jones, 7. Roger Coss, 8. Chip Santee, 9. John Markovic, 10. Lou Strohl, 11. Francis Gross II, 12. Terry Markovic, 13. Kyle Strohl DNS: Joe Stamm
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Tyler Stangle, 2. Nick Baer, 3. Cody Kohler, 4. Jake Kibler, Jr., 5. Bobby Kibler, Jr., 6. Jesse Snyder, 7. Kailyn Beers, 8. Chad Miller, 9. Dave Chapman
17 Sat May Mahoning Speedway Mods - 3rd
Nevin George was undeniably above the rest of his Modified counterparts in winning his first feature of the year Saturday night at Mahoning Valley Speedway. With heavy hitters John Markovic, Eric Beers and Earl Paules trying all they could to unseat him from the lead, George was above and beyond no matter what they threw at him. “I was never worried at all about them. On a lengthy green flag run our car only got better and we never ran more than a 10 lap run. The longer we ran the better we progressed,” said George. Starting seventh, he raced to the front after an intense duel with Paules over laps 9-15. They would actually swap the lead over that span until George landed at the helm for good on lap 15. “We had a good car all night right from the heat (race). The tires we have on where for the 100 lapper that got rained out multiple times and we decided to put them on tonight. I knew we would have a decent starting spot so we put the stickers on and took advantage of all that and here we are,” said George. George indeed had the strongest car but with a number of cautions that dotted the race it kept him from showing just how much he had. Plus there was a water issue in turn four from the heavy rain that hit the track on Friday, making matters interesting to say the least. “The track was a little uncertain tonight because of the water that was laying in turn four and you didn’t know what to expect from one lap to the next and then there was a little mist coming down,” said George. “But our car stuck and when I get to the front it’s hard to get around me.”; Nevertheless despite all the obstacles, George was close to perfect. His restarts where spot on as he soundly held off his attackers and drove on to victory. “You plan for this all winter and you come into the season with high expectations. It took us four weeks but I’m glad it’s done and now we’ll get ready for the next one.”; Markovic edged Beers for second while Paules nipped Chip Santee in rounding out the top five.
After three straight second place finishes, Pro 4 point leader Nick Baer used a lap three restart to grab the lead from Jesse Snyder and then had to work hard in holding off Bobby Kibler, Sr., for his first win of the year.
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. Nevin George, 2. John Markovic, 3. Eric Beers, 4. Earl Paules, 5. Chip Santee, 6. Kyle Strohl, 7. Roger Coss, 8. Kris Graver, 9. Eric Kocher, 10. Brian Romig, 11. Don Wagner, 12. Mike Quinn, 13. Jason Zatsko, 14. Francis Gross III, 15. Glenn Slocum, 16. Terry Markovic, 17. Tony Zatsko, 18. Joe Stamm
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Nick Baer, 2. Bobby Kibler, Sr., 3. Dave Chapman, 4. Cody Kohler, 5. Jake Kibler, 6. Bobby Kibler, Jr., 7. Joe Stangle, 8. Jesse Snyder, 9. Chad Miller, 10. Kailyn Beers, 11. Tyler Stangle 10Sat May Mahoning Speedway Mods 100L $3500 + all divisions + Micro Stocks $20 RAIN
Sat 3 May Mahoning Speedway Mods 100L $3500 + all divisions + Micro Stocks $20 - RAIN Sat 26-Apr Mahoning Speedway - 2nd Youth has been served in the Modified ranks at Mahoning Valley Speedway as 14-year old Kyle Strohl became the youngest driver to win a feature race in the division, capturing the checkers in Saturday’s 35-lap main. And he beat none other than the mentor who guided him through the first few weeks, current class champion Eric Beers.Strohl showed his mettle the previous race when he went wheel-to-wheel with seasoned veteran John Markovic, only to fall short after his car lost power late in that event. Markovic went on to win the race.He got a second chance to prove that run was no fluke. Starting from the pole Strohl jumped out front over Kris Graver and held the point with precise accuracy over each lap turned. Despite Graver giving him some stiff competition, Strohl never flinched.In third was Nevin George, however, under a lap 17 caution he gave up the spot after having to pit. Beers was the benefactor and when the action resumed he began a great duel with Graver. As they ran two-wide Strohl was able to extent his lead.For a dozen laps Graver and Beers battled and it wasn’t until six to go that the champ broke free to lay claim to the spot. With time of the essence he then charged towards Strohl but the fast-rising star wasn’t about to let Beers or anyone else steal away his thunder. “This really is so amazing. I have to thank Eric Beers for helping us these past few weeks getting started,” said Strohl, who was making just his third start in a Modified.“I knew he was coming too but I’m just trying my best to run my line and hope no one passes me. This feels great and it’s a dream come true.
In the Pro 4 main Dave Chapman won by giving Tyler Stangle a great run for his money. Stangle had led from the drop of the green but was under heavy weight the whole time by Chapman. With two laps to go the door opened and in went Chapman for the pass and the win
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. Kyle Strohl, 2. Eric Beers, 3. Kris Graver, 4. John Markovic, 5. Roger Coss, 6. Terry Markovic, 7. Chip Santee, 8. Bobby Jones, 9. Nevin George, 10. Brian Romig, 11. Jarred Nace, 12. Earl Paules, DNS: Don Wagner
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Dave Chapman, 2. Nick Baer, 3. Tyler Stangle, 4. Jesse Snyder, 5. Jake Kibler, 6. Chad Miller, 7. Kailyn Beers, 8. Cody Kohler, 9. Bobby Kibler, Jr., DNS: Jason Muffley
Sat 19-Apr Mahoning Speedway - 5th
A week ago during the season opener, John Markovic was qualified but missed the feature. The reason – he was rushed to Lehigh Valley Medical Center in Allentown because of an irregular heartbeat. He spent the rest of the weekend in the hospital and thankfully was released and back at work by Monday. Returning to race this past Saturday night, Markovic’s clean bill of health was put to the test. Despite having the luxury of starting from the pole, once the race got underway he competed in 35 heart pounding laps and eked out a win over Chip Santee and prior to that went head-to-head with 14-year old rookie Kyle Strohl. “Last week at this time I was in the hospital with a 250-beat per minute heartbeat and my blood pressure was way high so this is a big turnaround from then to know,” said the well-respected veteran Markovic. With Strohl flanked to his outside for the start, the pair quickly went into an outstanding duel for the lead with Markovic maintaining the advantage but just slightly. Markovic is over 40 years older than the upstart but the young lion, driving a Modified for just the second time, was wheeling alongside the master craftsman with precision and accuracy that only comes from years of experience. “Kyle Strohl is a fantastic driver and one day maybe he can drive for me,” remarked Markovic. And as they put on their crowd pleasing race for the lead, Santee was closely trailing while clashing with Kris Graver for third. Under a lap 28 caution any chance of winning suddenly vanished for Strohl when his car lost power and he had to be pushed behind the wall. His demise allowed Santee the runner-up spot for the restart and once the action resumed he was fast enough to surge past Markovic and take the lead. Markovic was quick to return the favor on the ensuing lap and retook his position. From there to the finish he held off Santee to laim the hard earned victory. “I was just trying to take it easy. I didn’t want to use up the 44 (Strohl) and I know I did with Chip (Santee). He had a little better start on that last restart,” said Markovic, who garnered his 33rd track win. Graver, Nevin George and Eric Beers completed the top five. Jke Kibler has gotten off to a great start in the Pro 4 division as he collected his second straight win. Kibler took the lead on a lap 13 restart from early pacesetter Dave Chapman. He then held off Nick Baer who for the second time.
Modified Feature Finish (35 Laps): 1. John Markovic, 2. Chip Santee, 3. Kris Graver, 4. Nevin George, 5. Eric Beers, 6. Roger Coss, 7. Matt Hirschman, 8. Brandon Oltra, 9. Earl Paules, 10. Brain DeFebo, 11. Glenn Slocum, 12. Bobby Jones, 13. Brian Romig, 14. Terry Markovic, 15. Jim Bojonny, 16. Don Wagner, 17. Kyle Strohl, 18. Troy Bollinger DNS: Rick Kirkendall
Pro 4 Feature Finish (20 Laps): 1. Jake Kibler, 2. Nick Baer, 3. Bobby Kibler, Jr., 4. Jason Muffley, 5. Dave Chapman, 6. Cody Kohler, 7. Jesse Snyder, 8. Tyler Stangle, 9. Chad Miller, 10. Kailyn Beers
APRIL 12: Mahoning Speedway - 100 Lap - WIN When Eric Beers climbed from his race car after winning the Opening Night 100-lap feature at Mahoning Valley Speedway, the defending track champion explained how out of shape he felt from the grind of the century run. His performance, however, showed otherwise. Without missing a beat from his record setting season of a year ago, Beers took the lead from Austin Kochenash on lap 36 then set sail in claiming his 10th win in a Mahoning extra distance event. The victory was worth a cool $4000, the largest amount ever awarded for a 100-lapper. “I am really spent after that one,” said Beers while in Victory Lane. “I realize now how out of shape I am but wow what a way to start off the season. My hat’s off to Floyd Santee (promoter) who did an awesome job putting this night together. We have a full house of fans and a super field of cars.”; After a straight-up start from the heat finishes Beers started sixth and needed just three laps to make his way into the top five. Pole sitter Rick Kirkendall jumped into the early lead with Matt Hirschman and Kochenash running a close second and third respectively. Next in line came Roger Coss. Through the beginning laps Kirkendall was holding off repeated attempts by Hirschman and Kochenash. But, a game changer took place while under a lap 14 caution. Scott Meckes brought out the yellow when he dumped liquid in turn three. During the extended cleanup Hirschman had to pit for a right front flat. A few moments later Kirkendall when off after overheating. That allowed Kochenash to advance to first place with Beers second. When the race resumed Kochenash was firm and looking to repeat his Opening Night win from a year ago. Beers, though, had other thoughts as by lap 20 he went to the high side and began a torrid side-by-side battle for the lead. Kochenash was holding his line and made Beers work hard on every lap they raced together. Beers even backed off a time or two in order to refocus his route of attack but it was soon evident that if he was going to complete the pass it had to come from the outside lane. He again took to the high road and this time used a surge of momentum to leap by and take the lead as 36 laps went into the books. “Austin (Kochenash) is always tough to pass especially at this place. We ran clean and I’m sure the fans got a thrill from how close we were. It was just good hard racing which is what you get here. This is why we don’t run the (NASCAR) Whelen Modified Tour anymore, we love being back here at Mahoning,” said Beers, who won for the 37th time at Mahoning. Once in the lead there would be no stopping him. That included a late caution with eight laps to go. Kochenash knew that would be perhaps his last chance at Beers on the restart but it was to no avail as the champ showed no signs off backing off and went on to score the win. “Second was good tonight especially when you look at all the cars here and the competition,” said Kochenash. “We just didn’t have the car to run with Eric (Beers). He drove a great race. That last restart was a chance to get him but I had used up a lot on the previous restart.”;
Modified Feature Finish (100 Laps): 1. Eric Beers, 2. Austin Kochenash, 3. Nevin George, 4. Matt Hirschman, 5. Roger Coss, 6. Don Wagner, 7. Brian DeFebo, 8. Kris Graver, 9. Earl Paules, 10. Shawna Ingram, 11. Brian Romig, 12. Chip Santee, 13. Glenn Slocum, 14. Rick Kirkendall, 14. Todd Baer, 15. Jason Zatsko, 17. Scott Meckes, 18. Terry Markovic, 19. Troy Bollinger, 20. Kyle Strohl DNS: John Markovic DNQ: Tony Zatsko, Eric Mauriello
Pro 4 Feature Finish (18 Laps): 1. Jake Kibler, 2. Nick Baer, 3. Bobby Kibler, Jr., 4. Tyler Stangle, 5. Jesse Snyder, 6. JD Light, 7, Chad Miller, 8. Cody Kohler, 9. Dave Chapman, 10. Kailyn Beers