Matt Hirschman bags fourth Mahoning Valley Speedway Octoberfast win…- AUSTIN GREAT 3rd Place
From Austin: "Another top 5 tonight at Mahoning for the Octoberfast 150! Started 6th and was running at about that spot when I get out in the wall on the front stretch and on the next restart the car didn’t turn and I almost got turned and fell all the way to to the back. Then I got up to 4th when everyone started to pit and had to come from the back again which killed my right front. Made my way up to 2nd with a lap 142 restart and the car was to loose to do anything with it. Just thankful for my opportunity, all my guys, and my sponsors! Hopefully we can go get the win next week at Evergreen!"
Octoberfast 2019 at Mahoning Valley Speedway showcased a talent laden field of Modified drivers that saw a number of top contenders in position for the $5000 win but when the checkers fell on the 150 contest it was yet another victory going to perennial favorite Matt Hirschman as he scored an unprecedented fourth Octoberfast in the eight year history of the event. Hirschman took the lead from Austin Kochenash 25 laps from the finish and then stayed solid the rest of the way to earn his 14th overall win of 2019 and 18th at Mahoning Valley. Kochenash made a great run back towards the front after a spin and pit stop with 13 laps to go for an impressive runner-up. Austin Beers showed lots of potential and was third, Earl Paules, who was a factor throughout notched fourth while Don Wagner completed the top five. “Everything just worked out well for us tonight, being in the right spots at the right times. What a way to bookend the season here, winning the 100 lap opener and now back-to-back in the Octoberfast,” said Hirschman. “This a good paying race and we really appreciate Mahoning Valley Speedway putting on the event. It’s a nice crowd that’s here, a nice day and very glad to be here.” A redraw after qualifying heats saw BJ Wambold and Paules on the front row and when chief starter Bob Stull, who was flagging his final race at Mahoning, waved the race commencing green, it was Paules who hurried to the early lead. Wambold settled into second with 2019 division champion Bobby Jones, Tyler Haydt and Brian DeFebo closely in tow. As Paules was running a rapid pace he was also getting plenty of pressure from Wambold. Likewise Jones had his nose stuck in with the front pair which produced some very exciting action. On lap 17 Wambold aimed to the inside of Paules and was able to grab the lead, but it would be short lived as Jones made his way to the front three laps later. Unfortunately for the newly crowned champ his hopes for a second Octoberfast where dashed when he got caught up in a wreck on the back straight from cars from the tail end of the field. At the resumption Paules was back in front and again had Wambold on his tail. By lap 44 Kochenash and Hirschman had motored into second and third respectively, however, Paules pressed on as the leader despite the heavy company. After a great 41 lap stint at the head of the pack, Paules gave way to Kochenash who drove to his inside on lap 72. Paules would not waver from second and stayed close with Kochenash while holding off the advances from Hirschman.On lap 95 a caution waved for a spinning John Markovic and it would be at that period that most of the front runners opted to make a pit stop for new tires. Kochenash though remained on track. “When I saw all of those cars pit I knew I was in trouble at that point because they didn’t have to use their cars as hard with the new tires on. But my tires where still good so we elected to stay out,” said Kochenash. Indeed Kochenash was correct about those with fresh American Racer rubber. Paules was back to second 12 laps in and soon after Hirschman ran third and before long that trio was battling for the lead. Hirschman and Paules where running side-by-side in the direct path of Kochenash. By lap 124 Hirschman, who was on the low lane, nipped Paules and on the ensuing circuit was able to complete the race winning pass on Kochenash.
There was no looking back from there on as the No. 60 showed the prowess that has become the trademark in win after win when it comes to high stake races. “It was a good racing all night and guys raced clean and when you do that here you can always go side-by-side and run two grooves-plus and after we came back through I was able to make passes and do them clean and get to the lead and keep it to the finish,” said Hirschman. Following a lap 134 restart Kochenash while fighting for second with Paules spun under tight conditions on the front straight. He then dove to the pits, changed tires and made an incredible charge back before time ran out and had to settle for runner-up. “Right before that restart my tires began going away and I was running for second and then the spin happened and it was just racing hard at that point. We came back through though,” offered Kochenash who recorded his sixth second place tally of the year. “We were here for the $5000 but still second is decent. We lost a real good friend this week, Mitch Green, and I really wanted to win this for him but second was the best we could do tonight.” 16-year old Beers had come from the back several times and was hoping to make up for the Octoberfast that got away from him last year when Hirschman passed him with six laps to go. He was as high as second with five laps remaining before Kochenash passed him for the spot. “We just had a half inch too much stagger at the end and the car was really loose. It was a tough race coming from the back because of (pit) stops. I thought it would be pretty cool if I could have passed Matt for the win like he did to me last year but his car was really good and I had nothing for him,” said Beers. DeFebo, Todd Baer, Wambold, Gene Bowers and Haydt rounded out the top ten. Annexing heat wins where Haydt, Kochenash and Jones.
Modified Feature Finish (150-laps): 1. Matt Hirschman, 2. Austin Kochenash, 3. Austin Beers, 4. Earl Paules, 5. Don Wagner, 6. Brian DeFebo, 7. Todd Bear, 8. BJ Wambold, 9. Gene Bowers, 10. Tyler Haydt, 11. John Markovic, 12. Lorin Arthofer, 13. Jake Kibler, 14. Kevin Graver, 15. Kyle Strohl, 16. Terry Markovic, 17. Eric Kocher, 18. Mike Sweeney, 19. Bobby Jones, 20. Ron Haring Jr.
Eric falls just short in the effort to capture 2nd Race of Champions win - Austin an awesome 5th place run
Despite a constant threat of rain that eventually temporarily delayed the Race of Champions 250, “Big Money” Matt Hirschman wouldn’t let it rain on his parade, scoring his seventh Race of Champions 250 win at Lake Erie Speedway Saturday. Hirschman set the pace from the start, managing his tires while leading the field from the drop of the green flag. His red 60 modified would go on to lead through the fuel stop, before finally pitting for tires during a caution on lap 157. George Skora III would inherit the lead during the pit cycle, taking the lead just in time for a quick lake effect rain shower to douse the Erie, PA facility on lap 171. Despite Skora III’s prayers for the event to end, a valiant effort by track officials was able to dry the track through spitting precipitation and fog that had rolled in off the track’s namesake lake. Skora led briefly following the rain delay, but Hirschman had no problem cutting through the field with fresh tires. Hirschman fell to tenth on the pit cycle, but returned to the lead just 15 laps later. Despite late charges by Skora III and Eric Beers, Hirschman never looked back, leading the last 60 laps to score his fifth straight Race of Champions 250 win, adding to his wins at Oswego and Chemung. Hirschman was fully aware of his accomplishment in victory lane. “It’s incredible, taking a moment just to think about it," said Hirschman. "There are races that are run every year and I know there are some that I’ve gone back-to-back, sometimes three in a row. Never a race to win five straight years in a row, at different tracks. Records are made to be broken, but that one’s going to be a tough one to beat. There are so many things that have to align, regardless if you have a car that’s fast enough to win, a pit crew that’s fast enough to get you out of the pits, so many stars need to align to win a race like this.” Hirschman was grateful of the effort put in by the track crew to get the track ready for racing after the rain moved through on lap 171. “When we went back green the track was as good if not better than it was earlier in the race. The outside was actually cleaner from the marbles and things when we went back green. It was the right thing to do to wait it out and get the race in. Had another shot of rain come through, it probably would have been over. I would have shaken the 65’s (Skora III) hand, can’t control the weather. If he had been the winner because of that, hey, go down in history, can’t take that away from him. I would have been deflated; I knew we had a car certainly better than where we were.”Hirschman was not the only winner following the Race of Champions 250, as the Race of Champions Modified Series handed their 2019 championship trophy to Patrick Emerling for the second time. Emerling missed the first race of the season due to schedule conflicts, but managed to string together a series of consistently good finishes throughout the remaining campaign. Andy Jankowiak entered the race with the championship lead, but fell out early with mechanical issues, handing the championship to Emerling. Emerling was excited to have prevailed in the championship but was cognizant of the effort made to come from behind and win the championship. “There’s awesome competition in this series. Skipping the first race, we were 100 points down right off the bat, was going to be really tough for us to come back. We just had really solid runs week in and week out, we’d show up to the track and be in contention to win. I think pretty much every race was a podium finish for us. I think my team, we earned it. It just comes to show what we can do. We’re going to continue to get better here.”
Race of Champions 250 Results
1 – Matt Hirschman
2 – Eric Beers
3 – George Skora III
4 – Scott Wylie
5 – Austin Beers
6 – Chuck Hossfeld
7 – Patrick Emerling
8 – Daren Scherer
9 – Mike Leaty
10 – Randall Richard
11 – Kyle Ebersole
12 – Daryl Lewis Jr.
13 – Chris Risdale
14 – Chris Finnachario
15 – Dan Majchrzak
16 – Jack Ely
17 – Andy Jankowiak
18 – Jimmy Zacharias
19 – David Kozlowski
20 – Jeff Szafreniec
21 – Kevin Timmerman
22 – Kevin Miller
23 – Jake Wylie
24 – Mike Ramos
25 – Ricky Knapp
Brian DeFebo wins Mahoning Modified 50 on September 21 - Austin gets a great 4th place finish
Saturday night’s 50-lap Modified feature at Mahoning Valley Speedway won by Brian DeFebo served as a prelude to the marquee Octoberfast 150 on October 12 and the indication for the $5000-to-win event will be an outstanding display of racing evidenced by the great exhibit of competition throughout the field.
DeFebo withstood a throng of pressure from runner-up Kyle Strohl, newly crowned champion Bobby Jones and Austin Beers before pulling away late for a two car length margin of victory worth $2000. It was his third win of 2019 and 105th overall. DeFebo took the reins of the race on lap nine from a very impressive running BJ Wambold. Afterwards he began to check out on the pack. Wambold stayed strong holding onto second before Strohl unseated him 21 laps in. Still at that point DeFebo was the dominant car as Strohl was several lengths back. It wouldn’t be until a restart on lap 32 that DeFebo was under the gun as Strohl and Jones stepped up their game and stayed hot on the leader’s tail and it shortly thereafter Beers hitched along and made it a close four car battle. DeFebo had no choice but to guard both high and low lanes as the trio continued coming on strong against him. Strohl was able to secure second spot within the closing laps while Beers was ever-so-close to unseating Jones. By that point, however, DeFebo wasn’t having any parts of that as he pulled slightly ahead by the time the checkers waved. “This is really exciting and I love racing here,” said DeFebo. “I didn’t want to lead that early on and I knew the car was very good but you have to take advantage of it when can to get out front and set your own pace. This is definitely a warm-up for that 150 (lapper) and we are hoping for the same results.” Runner-up Strohl, who locked the Sportsman Modified title the week prior when rain cancelled that show, was the only other driver that had a shot at Jones for the Modified crown. Jones’ third place earned him his first track championship in 25 years and first here in a Modified. Beers was advancing nicely before the race ended and is a pre-race favorite for Octoberfast where he was second to Matt Hirschman a year ago. Wambold meanwhile turned plenty of heads with his fine drive as he recorded his first top five with a Modified.
Feature Finish (50-laps): 1. Brian DeFebo, 2. Kyle Strohl, 3. Bobby Jones, 4. Austin Beers, 5. BJ Wambold, 6. John Markovic, 7. Earl Paules, 8. Lorin Arthofer, 9. Josh Scherer, 10. Eric Kocher, 11. Stacey Brown, 12. Jarred Nace, 13. DJ Wagner, 14, Terry Markovic, 15. Corey Edelman, 16. Austin Kochenash, 17. Nick Bear, 18. Anthony Sesely, 19. Heath Metzger, 20. Don Wagner, 21. Todd Bear
US OPEN at Lancaster Speedway goes to Patrick Emerling on September 15 - Eric comes home 7th
Patrick Emerling of Orchard Park, N.Y. won the 31st annual U.S. Open 125 Race of Champions Modified Series event on Sunday afternoon at Lancaster Speedway @ New York International Raceway Park. It was the second career U.S. Open win for Emerling, after winning the event back in 2016. In supporting action from the final day of the U.S. Open, Eldon King III of Freedom, N.Y. won the Race of Champions Late Model Series feature. Rich Sharpe of Lancaster won the U.S. Open Street Stock feature for the fourth-straight year, and for the fifth time in the last six years. Andy Jankowiak and Timmy Catalano led the field of 24 Modifieds to the opening green flag of the U.S. Open 125. Jankowiak led the opening lap before giving way to Catalano. Catalano controlled the pace through the first 20 laps of the event. The yellow flag was displayed for the first time on lap 20 when Chris Ridsdale spun. Mike Leaty started fourth after setting fast time in qualifying and winning his heat race. He moved into second behind Catalano when the race restarted on lap 27. Leaty took the lead on the following restart 11 laps later. Catalano did not let Leaty get away without a fight, however, as he chased Leaty for 15 laps before recapturing the lead on 53. His brother, Tommy Catalano, was running third until a mechanical issue took him out contention on lap 57. The caution flag was displayed again when Catalano stopped on the race track, which set off the first round of pit stops. Catalano, Emerling, Jankowiak, Scott Wylie and Owen Bednasz were among the ten cars that decided to pit. Leaty was handed the lead back as Catalano made his pit visit. He was joined at the front of the field by Eric Beers, Matt Hirschman, George Skora III and TJ Potrzebowski when the race restarted just after the halfway point. The misfortune for the Catalano family continued on lap 76 when Amy Catalano stopped on the track with an issue to bring out the yellow flag again. Leaty and Skora came to the pits during this caution period, which gave the lead to Beers and moved Hirschman to second. Hirschman, the defending and five-time U.S. Open winner, didn’t waste time on the restart as he pulled away from Beers. It looked like Hirschman could be on his way to a sixth win on lap 87 when Chuck Hossfeld and Timmy Catalano made contact in turn one to signal the final caution period of the race. Hirschman and Beers pitted at this time to try and set themselves up for about a 30-lap dash through the field. Emerling was handed the lead when Hirschman and Beers, which were the final two cars in the field to pit. Jankowiak lined up second followed by Hossfeld, Kevin Miller and Timmy Catalano. The race restarted with 31 laps to go, and Emerling and Jankowiak took off from the field as they turn things into a two car battle for the win. Jankowiak appeared to have the stronger car early in the stretch run as he pressed Emerling especially on the outside through turns one and two. Emerling ran that outside line to block the advances of Jankowiak. merling began to pull away in the final 15 laps as Jankowiak’s car started to fade. He pulled out to over a one second advantage as Emerling worked through lapped traffic. Emerling cruised to the checkered flag for his second win in the U.S. Open 125. His victory, combined with a second place run in Friday’s Tommy Druar/Tony Jankowiak Memorial 110, has allowed Emerling to close within two points of Jankowiak for the RoC Modified Series points lead.
Jankowiak finished second after a strong showing. Leaty came home third to give his L2 Autosport team two cars in the top three. Hirschman finished fourth after his strategy to pit late did not go as well as he had hoped. He got hung up in traffic, and wasn’t able to move through the field until very late. Chuck Hossfeld finished fifth in what could be his final U.S. Open start as he has announced he will retire from driving full-time at the end of this season.
RACE OF CHAMPIONS MODIFIED SERIES
Fast Qualifier: Mike Leaty – 17.041 seconds
Heat Winners: Mike Leaty, Andy Jankowiak, Patrick Emerling
U.S. Open 125 Finish: PATRICK EMERLING, Andy Jankowiak, Mike Leaty, Matt Hirschman, Chuck Hossfeld, George Skora III, Eric Beers, Timmy Catalano, Kevin Miller, Owen Bednasz, Scott Wylie, Tyler Rypkema, Daren Scherer, Amy Catalano, Dan Majchrzak, T.J. Potrzebowski, Chris Ridsdale, Austin Beers, Tommy Catalano, Daryl Lewis, Jr., Mark Tychoniewicz, Dave DiPietro, Jake Rought, Andy Lewis
Matt Hirschman of Northampton, PA wins the 30th annual Tommy Druar/Tony Jankowiak Memorial on September 13 at Lancaster Speedway @ New York International Raceway Park Eric gets 3rd while Austin gets 12th
The 110-lap race originally started on August 17, but was halted after six laps after a crash by Karl Hehr damaged the catch fence on the front straightaway. The race resumed on Friday night to kick off the 31st annual U.S. Open weekend at Lancaster. When the race was stopped Eric Beers was scored as the leader followed by Chuck Hossfeld, Patrick Emerling, Daren Scherer and Daryl Lewis, Jr. The race resumed 27 days after it was halted, and Beers retained his command of the field followed by Hossfeld and Emerling. Hossfeld developed an issue around lap 20 and began dropping through field. He eventually spun out in turn two on lap 24 to bring out the yellow flag. Hossfeld would be in and out of the pits throughout the rest of the race. Several of the front runners pitted during the caution period, including Emerling, Daren Scherer, Amy Catalano and Kevin Miller. The race restarted on lap 32, but was quickly under the caution flag again when RoC Series points leader Andy Jankowiak, Chris Ridsdale and George Skora III tangled in turn three. Jankowiak’s car drove over the front end of Ridsdale. He went to the pits, but came back out with something dragging from the rear of the car. Beers continued to lead the race with Tommy Catalano now in second place followed by Matt Hirschman and Amy Catalano. Jankowiak stopped on the track to bring out the yellow flag again on lap 41. The race went past the halfway point with Beers still leading. Catalano and Hirschman traded the runner-up position back and forth. Emerling led the cars that pitted earlier in the race, and was up to fourth place by lap 57. Owen Bednasz spun out on lap 71 to bring out the caution flag after just over 20 laps of racing under green. This gave Beers and Hirschman the opportunity to pit for a new tire while Catalano elected to stay out. Catalano inherited the lead when Beers pitted, which also moved Emerling to second followed by Scherer, Skora, Hirschman and Beers. It took Emerling just three laps to get by Catalano when the race restarted. Hirschman quickly moved his way to the front of the field, and he passed Catalano for second lap 83. Emerling and Hirschman eventually pulled away from the pack. Skora and Miller tangled on lap 97 to cause another caution period. Hirschman continued to pursue Emerling when the race restarted. On lap 100, Hirschman got a run to the inside of Emerling down the frontstretch. He was able to stay to the inside of Emerling going into turn one, and took the lead for good by the time they exited turn two.
One final caution with five laps to go was all that separated Matt Hirschman from his fourth career win in the Tommy/Tony 110. He pulled away in the final circuits to secure his first RoC Modified Series win of 2019. Emerling had to settle for second, but he managed to cut Andy Jankowiak’s series points lead to just 12. Beers finished third with Kevin Miller and Tommy Catalano rounded out the top five.
RACE OF CHAMPIONS MODIFIED SERIES RESULTS
Fast Qualifier: Mike Leaty – 17.123 seconds
Heat Winners: Chuck Hossfeld, Mike Leaty, Amy Catalano
30th annual Tommy Druar/Tony Jankowiak Memorial 110 finish: MATT HIRSCHMAN, Patrick Emerling, Eric Beers, Kevin Miller, Tommy Catalano, Daren Scherer, Owen Bednasz, Amy Catalano, George Skora III, Alan Bookmiller, Chris Ridsdale, Austin Beers, Andy Jankowiak, Chuck Hossfeld, Scott Wylie, Bobby Hanel, Timmy Catalano, Dave Kozlowski, Daryl Lewis, Jr., Mike Leaty, Tyler Catalano, Karl Hehr, Bill Mislin, Randall Richard
Austin races to 4th place Finish at Evergreen Raceway - September 6
Modifieds (50)
1- Roger Coss
2- Matt Hirschman
3- Anthony Sessely
4- Austin Beers
5- Austin Kichenash
6- James Pritchard Jr
7- Don Wagner
8- Jonathan Mandato
9- Earl Paules
10- Brian Sones
11- Bobby Jones
12- Josh Scherer
13- Paul Monkoski
14- Broc Brown
15- Tommy Wanick III
16- Brandon Oltra
17- Ron Haring
18- Brian DeFebo
19- Ricky Ross Jr
Karl Hehr accident postpones Lancaster Race of Champions Race on August 17 to September 13 while Eric was leading
By Larry Ott
A frightening accident involving Karl Hehr Saturday evening caused the postponement of the remainder of the Race of Champions Asphalt Modified Series Tommy Druar/Tony Jankowiak Memorial 110 at New York International Raceway Park. Hehr started Saturday's annual event from the outside pole. He was racing in the top 10 when his car suddenly veered head on into the front stretch wall at the exit of Turn Four on lap six of the scheduled 110-lap distance. The high speed impact sent the protective foam blocks that line the wall flying, and a large section of the wheel fence was also torn down and heavily damaged. Hehr's car then overturned and came to rest upside down. The red flag was displayed. The NYIRP safety team headed by Mike Myers was immediately on the scene. A few minutes later after the car was turned back over, Hehr exited the car under his own power and received a large ovation from the relieved grandstand spectators as he walked to the ambulance. After an evaluation, Hehr was transported to Erie County Medical Center for observation. No spectators were injured in the incident. Hehr spoke briefly with The News on Sunday from ECMC where he was still recovering. "I'm still in the hospital with a possible lower back issue today," Hehr said. "I will be further examined on Monday and hopefully can be released Monday. I'm still very sore. I sincerely want to thank the fans and everyone else in the racing community for all the concern they have shown to me and my family since the accident. I'm also very grateful to the safety crew who handled my situation very well. They're the best." Hehr is a successful veteran driver who is extremely popular with both the fans and the participants in the pits. He is the 1993 and 1995 track Sportsman champion and a past winner of the Modified portion of the U.S. Open. Due to the extensive damage to the wheel fence, the amount of time it would take to fix it and with it already being after 11 p.m., ROC and NYIRP stock car coordinator Joe Skotnicki decided to postpone the rest of the race distance until Sept. 13, the first day of NYIRP's annual U.S. Open Weekend. When the race resumes, the running order at the time of the red flag will find Eric Beers, Chuck Hossfeld, Patrick Emerling, Daren Scherer and Daryl Lewis Jr. comprising the top five for the restart. Skotnicki explained his rationale behind his decision to postpone. "The fans and the racers' safety is paramount," Skotnicki said. "The fans of course come first. Although I'm sure some fans aren't happy, it's a decision we had to make. Structurally, could we have repaired it? Maybe. But then you're putting people at a later and later hour. The decision with an open night and I surveyed a couple of folks and came to the conclusion that the postponement is the right thing to do." Skotnicki also praised the NYIRP safety crew and race officials who worked quickly and efficiently in a difficult scenario. "Those guys are the best," Skotnicki said. "Mike Myers and that whole operation that Mike's created is great. I've seen racing at so many places and there's crews that will rival them but none better. Hats off to those guys because they make sure they've got everything buttoned up every night. "Friday night (Sept. 13) of the U.S. Open we will still have practice," Skotnicki said. "We're going to host practice for all the teams. The teams that weren't here tonight will obviously have to pay to get into the pits, but the fans will be admitted free and we'll restart this race from lap six at 8 p.m. that evening and finish it up. Then maybe we'll have a little party and celebrate the rest of it. "The hard part of this decision is that some people will be cynical and critical about it, but this could have happened at 8 o'clock at night or 9 o'clock at night or 10:30. It didn't matter. The decision would have been the same because we're thinking big picture and not just trying to get the race done. We want everybody to get home with the best experience possible and that certainly wasn't the best experience tonight." The postponement also means that the ROC Modifieds will race the remaining 104 laps on that Friday and in short order have to return two days later on September 15 to run the previously scheduled U.S. Open 125 weekend headlining finale event.
EVERGREEN AUGUST 9 - AUSTIN RUNNING GOOD RAN INTO SOME TROUBLE
Had a tough night last night at Evergreen Speedway. Started 10th and slowly worked up to 4th and was passing for 3rd and really wasn’t given enough room to make a pass and ended losing a couple positions because of it. Then I was working my way back up and a car got loose in front of me hit his brakes and I had no where to go and got sent to the rear but recovered for a 9th place finish. Thank you to all my sponsors and crew and can’t wait for Lancaster next Saturday!
WHAT A NIGHT AT CHEMUNG SPEEDWAY ON AUGUST 3 - ERIC GETS CAUGHT UP IN WRECK - AUSTIN SOLID 17th
Patrick Emerling of Orchard Park, N.Y., earned his 16th career Race of Champions Asphalt Modified Series victory this past Saturday in the Rod Spalding Classic at Chemung (N.Y.) Speedrome. Emerling’s win ties him with his crew chief, Jan Leaty of Williamson, N.Y., for fourth on the all-time win list.
Emerling started 10th and methodically worked his way through the field, ultimately wrestling the lead away from TJ Potrzebowski of Elmira, N.Y., on lap 45 and heading to victory lane. “We’ve been challenged here, looking for speed,” stated Emerling from victory lane. “But we found it tonight. The car was good throughout the race and I just used some patience to get into a position to win. It can get wild here. I’m proud of my team, we’ve had a long weekend and this is a good way to end it.” Owen Bednasz of Lakeview, N.Y., led the field to the green and led the first circuit before Potrzebowski claimed the top spot. Tyler Rypkema of Owego, N.Y., took his turn out front after passing Potrzebowski, while the action was fast and furious behind him. Potrzebowski then slipped back into the lead just before halfway and led until Emerling went in to the top spot for good. Matt Hirschman of Northampton, Pa., finished second, while Austin Kochenash of Danielsville, Pa., finished third. Brian Defebo of Scranton, Pa., came home fourth while Scott Wylie of Blasdell, N.Y., finished fifth. Hirschman posted the fastest time during group qreen-white-checker qualifying with a time of 14.903 (90.586 mph). Rypkema, Chuck Hossfeld of Ransomville, N.Y., Mike Leaty of Williamson, N.Y., and Jack Ely of Wall Township, N.J., won the qualifying races.
1 10 07 Patrick Emerling
2 5 60 Matt Hirschman
3 6 66 Austin Kochensash
4 18 53 Brian Defebo
5 19 88 Scot Wyle
6 17 12 Andy Jankowiak
7 2 72 TJ Potrzebowski
8 3 22 Chuck Hossfeld
9 12 25 Mike Leaty
10 13 10l Daryl Lewis, Jr.
11 4 32 Tyler Rypkema
12 11 45 Eric Beers
13 15 95 Bryan Sherwood
14 14 3 Daren Scherer
15 22 2 Kevin Miller
16 21 9 Brandon Oltra
17 20 19 Austin Beers
18 1 48 Owen Bednasz 74
19 16 40r Jake Rought
20 8 4 Zack Knowlden 73 Accident
21 24 6 Scott Hossfeld 67
22 9 54e Jack Ely 50 Mechanical
23 7 5 Kyle Ebersole 36 Mechanical
24 23 94 Zack Curren 26 Mechanical
40-year veteran John Markovic still as good as ever after dazzling Modified verdict at Mahoning Valley Speedway on July 27th as Austin goes from 17th to 4th
John Markovic has been racing for 40 years, amassing a distinguished career over that span of countless wins, numerous championships and respect amongst his peers. Saturday night at Mahoning Valley Speedway in front of packed grandstand for Fan Appreciation Night, his years of experience shined with a brilliant drive over hard charging Austin Kochenash and Kevin Rex Jr. Markovic nabbed the lead from Nick Baer on lap 12. For the balance of the race he was lodged in a torrid battle with Kochenash, who made frequent attempts to gain the lead. Under intense conditions both thrilled the enthusiastic crowd in a spectacular double-wide formation. Late into the going Rex joined in the fight as he and Kochenash traded back and forth for second spot all while looking for the opportunity to advance past Markovic. After a grueling battle among the trio, Markovic finally powered far enough ahead over the waning laps to secure his second win of the season and 38thoverall at Mahoning Valley. In the meanwhile Kochenash and Rex remained locked neck and neck to the finish with Kochenash earning the spot by a bumper. Austin Beers and Baer completed the top five.
Modified Feature Finish (35-laps): 1.John Markovic, 2. Austin Kochenash, 3. Kevin Rex, 4. Austin Beers, 5. Nick Baer, 6. Kyle Strohl, 7. Lou Strohl, 8. Bobby Jones, 9. Beau Drobot, 10. Heath Metzger, 11. Jacob Kerstetter, 12. Terry Markovic, 13. Brett Wentz, 14. BJ Wambold, 15. Corey Edelman, 16. Ron Haring Jr., 17. Brian DeFebo, 18. Earl Paules, 19. Todd Bear, 20. Gene Bowers, DNS: Eric Kocher
Eric has a strong run at Spencer with a top 5 finish while Austin stayed out of trouble to finish 14th
Andy Jankowiak of Buffalo, N.Y., turned in a dominating performance to win the Race of Champions Asphalt Modified Series Spencer Speedway presented by Wilbert’s U-Pull It 65th Anniversary 100 this past Friday. It was the 9th victory of Jankowiak’s career, but first at Spencer. Jankowiak drew the pole, used a timely pitstop and went on to win the 100-lap event. “This was big for us,” stated Jankowiak. “We had a great car all night. Spencer has presented me with its challenges however tonight we were able to overcome them and end up in victory lane. I’m proud of our entire team. Everything went our way. I’m lucking to get to drive this car. Tonight was an awesome victory for this team and we’re going to celebrate this one.” Jankowiak, flanked by Scott Wylie of Blasdell, N.Y., led the field to the green. Jankowiak had to withstand the advances of Chuck Hossfeld of Ransomville, N.Y., to hang on to the top spot. After a series of mid-race pitstops Jankowiak worked his way back to the spot and took command until the checkers flew. Wylie ended up second. Daryl Lewis of Ontario, N.Y., finished third.
Amy Catalano of Ontario, N.Y., finished fourth with Eric Beers of Northampton, Pa., rounding out the top-five. Chuck Hossfeld of Ransomville, N.Y., posted the Speed51.com “Top of the Board” overall fast time in group time trials with a lap of 19.085 seconds with an average speed of 94.315 mph.
Austin Beers and Brian DeFebo share Modified spotlight at Evergreen Raceway on July 19 -
Austin gets his first Tour Type Modified Win
Evergreen Raceway staged twin-25 lap Modified features Friday night and although there was a great field of cars on hand with any number of potential winners, the outcome saw two formidable names gracing Victory Lane as Austin Beers and Brian DeFebo picked up respective wins. For Beers, it marked his second straight track win but career first in a full Modified. Two weeks ago he had just won for the first time in B-mod. DeFebo, who is the track’s all-time career wins leader, won for the 58th time in a Modified at Evergreen and 86th time at the 1/3-mile paved oval. In the first feature Bobby Jones jumped ahead of Randal Richards for the opening lap lead and by lap three Beers was controlling second. Soon after began a torrid battle between Jones and Beers as they exchanged the lead several times over the next 10 laps. On lap 14 the battle paused due to a three car collision in turn three. It would be on that that restart that Beers executed his race winning move. As the pair took the green to resume the action, Beers used the outside lane to beat Jones into turn one. Unlike before when they were swapping the top spot, Beers was able to hammer down and pull away from Jones and the rest of the pack for the popular verdict. Matt Hirschman drove from 16th to third while John Markovic and Lou Strohl completed the top five. “This is awesome and I honestly didn’t think we’d have a chance with my second time in a Tour Mod here but the pieces fell in place and we got it done. The car was on rails and perfect everywhere,” said 16-year old Beers. “Racing with Bobby (Jones) was great. We touched once but it was nothing huge, we raced with respect.” For the second feature Todd Baer outgunned John Markovic for the early lead. Eighth starting DeFebo was picking his way forward and by lap 13 was second and approaching Baer quickly until a caution thwarted his effort. On the restart there would be no denying his strong running No. 53 as he blasted past Baer for the lead. Once in front it was no contest as he extended comfortably ahead en route to his 103rd overall feature victory. “We didn’t touch a thing from the first race. I was just waiting in the first feature but then got hit and that just set us back there,” said DeFebo. “Once I got in the lead I was in cruise control. We came here with a plan and at least we got half that plan.” Hirschman came home second after starting 12th. Unfortunately time wasn’t on his side in the night cap to mount a challenge to DeFebo. He ended his night passing the most cars in the combined twin-bill. Roger Coss, Don Wagner and Baer rounded out the top five.
TOMMY CATALANO TAKES HOME FIRST RACE OF CHAMPIONS ASPHALT MODIFIED SERIES WIN AT JUKASA ON JULY 13
With a pair of fierce Modified competitors breathing down his nick, Tommy Catalano broke through to score his first Race of Champions (RoC) Asphalt Modified Series victory Saturday night at Jukasa Motor Speedway. The 21-year-old racer from Ontario, New York fended off a vicious charge from Andy Jankowiak over the final laps before parking his No. 54 Modified in victory lane in Hagersville, Ontario. “They may have been breathing down my neck but I don’t know if I was breathing at all,” Catalano joked after the race. “That was definitely huge.”
Catalano’s path to victory lane was anything but ordinary After starting sixth, he began methodically making his way to the front during the first half of the race. As dark clouds began approaching the race track with Chuck Hossfeld leading the race, Catalano knew it was time to get up and go. He closed in on the back of Hossfeld’s No. 22 just before rain drops started falling and race officials sent the field to pit road. Following a rain delay that last just over an hour, the race resumed with heavy smoke coming from the rear of Hossfeld’s Modified. On the restart, Hossfeld drifted up just high enough for Catalano to fill the hole and power to his inside down the backstretch to challenge for the lead. Catalano completed the pass in turn four to take the lead for the first time on Lap 67.A late restart with 11 laps to go stacked the field back up with Emerling and Jankowiak right behind Catalano. When Emerling’s bid came up short on the restart, Jankowiak charged by Emerling to take over second and begin challenging Catalano for the lead. After trying high, low and everywhere in between, Jankowiak’s vicious bid for the lead came up just short. The result: a very happy Tommy Catalano and family celebrating the rising star’s first RoC Asphalt Modified Series victory. “This is huge. At the beginning of this race I said it’s a long race and I just wanted to take it easy for a few. I wanted to get to (lap) 60 and try to save a little bit. Last year we had a good car and just burned it up way early,” Catalano explained. “When the rain was coming in tonight and it was close to halfway, I said it was time to go, so I started putting the pressure on Chuck. I knew I wanted to be leading if it started raining and I kind of dropped the ball on that. When we ended up in the rain delay and they said we were going to go back racing, that was when I knew it was my redemption shot. “That start he pushed up just a touch and I knew that was my opportunity so I filled the hole the best I could. We never touched so it was awesome.”
Jankowiak, like most racers would be, was disappointed to finish second but was happy for Catalano. “I hate finishing second but congrats to Tommy Catalano,” Jankowiak said. “He ran a heck of a race and his big RoC win has been coming, so today is his day. Congratulations to him. It was fun racing. He was defending it perfect. I don’t know if I was going to get him but I had a good run down here on the last lap and the car jumped out of gear when it hit the apron. I wasn’t going to get him down the frontstretch so I figured I had one more shot down the backstretch and we were going to go race for it.” Emerling completed the podium in the third spot, while early race leader Chuck Hossfeld and Scott Wylie completed the top five.
Pos Start Driver Hometown Car
1 6 Tommy Catalano Ontario, NY 54C
2 11 Andy Jankowiak Tonawanda, NY 12X
3 10 Patrick Emerling Orchard Park, NY 07
4 1 Chuck Hossfeld Ransomville, NY 22
5 12 Scott Wylie Blasdell , NY 88
6 3 Owen Bednasz New York, NY 48
7 4 Eric Beers North Hampton, PA 45B
8 2 Daren Scherer Binghamton, NY 3
9 8 Amy Catalano Ontario, NY 64
10 17 Kevin Miller Rochester, NY 2
11 15 George Skora III Eden, NY 65
12 7 Jack Ely Wall, NJ 54E
13 9 Bill Mislin Buffalo, NY 99
14 21 Randall Richard 0
15 14 Karl Hehr Cheektowaga, NY 59
16 13 AJ Emms 14
17 18 Timmy Catalano Ontario, NY 45C
18 22 Austin Beers Northampton, PA 573X
19 5 Mike Leaty Williamson, NY 25
20 19 Andy Lewis Ontario, NY 65L
21 16 Paul Townson Guelph, ON 2T
22 20 Daryl Lewis Jr. Ontario, NY 10
YOUNG AUSTIN BEERS HAS A GREAT DAY AT EVERGREEN RACEWAY ON JUNE 30 -Win and 2nd
Awesome day at Evergreen Raceway today. Started 2nd in the make up feature and the car was a little tight and couldn’t complete the pass on the leader and ended up 2nd. Won my heat and redrew the pole for the regular feature. Car was tight but was in a great battle for the win and won it! Can’t thank all my sponsors and crew for all that they do!
BEERS BOYS HAVE A GOOD NIGHT AT ROC LANCASTER RACE - Austin gets 13th Eric gets 5th
June 27, 2019 . . A near capacity crowd welcomed the 60th consecutive season of stock car racing at Lancaster Speedway @ New York International Raceway Park on Thursday night as Andy Jankowiak of Tonawanda, N.Y. won the 5th annual Ol’ Boy Cup 60 Bill Colton Memorial race for the Race of Champions Modified Series.The event was the first stock car race held under the New York International Raceway Park (NYIRP) ownership group, which purchased the facility in late April. NYIRP has partnered with the management and staff of the Race of Champions to put on a six-race schedule of stock car races in 2019.
A total of 25 RoC Modifieds were on hand for the first of three visits by the series this season at Lancaster. Timmy Catalano and Daryl Lewis, Jr. were scheduled to lead the field to the opening green flag. Things did not go as planned for Lewis, however, as he pulled out of line just as the field came out of turn four to take the green. He stopped on the track to put the start of the race on hold.This moved Scott Wylie to the front row for the second attempt to start the race. Wylie capitalized on this as he grabbed the lead from Catalano when the race got under way. Eric Beers eventually settled into second followed by Patrick Emerling, Catalano and Chuck Hossfeld.Emerling, a former Ol’ Boy Cup winner, wasted little time as he moved from his seventh starting position to take over second from Beers on lap 6. The race continued just past the halfway point without another caution as Wylie and Emerling pulled out to a slight advantage over the field.Jankowiak started 10th after winning his heat race. He passed Hossfeld for third on lap 14, but was over a second behind the leaders at this point. Jankowiak made up the ground, and was challenging Emerling for second right before the caution came out on lap 31 for a spin by Jake Rought.The race took a dramatic turn following a restart on lap 34. Wylie and Emerling were racing for the lead in turn two when the pair made contact. Wylie suffered a damaged left front wheel, and lost control of the car. A few cars were caught up in the chaos the ensued. Daryl Lewis, Jr. hit a Thermal Foam block protecting an infield light pole, but was able to drive away. Jack Ely suffered the worst damaged, which ended his night. Wylie’s night was also done after leading the first 34 laps.Emerling lost momentum when he made contact with Wylie and slipped back to second place. Jankowiak was scored as the leader when the race restarted followed by Emerling, Catalano, Hossfeld and Beers.Catalano got past Emerling for second on the restart. This allowed Jankowiak to pull away as the pair battled for position. He looked to be on cruise control to an easy victory when a pair of yellow flags on lap 48 bunched the field up one more time.
Emerling regained second on the restart, and then went after Jankowiak to try and take the lead. He hounded Jankowiak throughout the final 10 laps, looking to make an inside move. While Emerling looked to have the stronger car, Jankowiak did a masterful job of not relinquishing the inside line. Jankowiak held on to capture the Ol’ Boy Cup V for his fourth career RoC Modified win at Lancaster. He has won four of the last ten RoC races at Lancaster dating back to the start of the 2017 season.While he has done a lot of traveling to other tracks up and down the East Coast this season, Jankowiak was happy to be back in victory lane at the track he grew up at.“It is fun going in the truck to Riverhead, Bowman Gray and Seekonk, but this is home, and I’m glad so many fans came out to support this race tonight at Lancaster,” said Jankowiak.Emerling had to settle for second followed by Hossfeld, Catalano and Beers. The RoC Modifieds return to Lancaster on August 17 for the 30th annual Tommy Druar/Tony Jankowiak Memorial 110.
RESULTS
RACE OF CHAMPIONS MODIFIED SERIES
Fast Qualifier: Mike Leaty – 17.232
Heat Winners: Eric Beers, Andy Jankowiak, Tommy Catalano
Ol’ Boy Cup V Finish: ANDY JANKOWIAK, Patrick Emerling, Chuck Hossfeld, Tommy Catalano, Eric Beers, Amy Catalano, Daren Scherer, Daryl Lewis, Jr., Owen Bednasz, John Barber, Chris Ridsdale, Dan Majchrzak, Austin Beers, Mike Leaty, Jake Rought, Bobby Weber, Timmy Catalano, Alan Bookmiller, Chris Finocchario, Scott Wylie, Jack Ely, Karl Hehr, Kevin Miller, George Skora III, Danny Knoll, Jr.
Hirschman shows cards late for first win of the year at Evergreen on June 14
Austin's thoughts: Ended up 12th at evergreen last night for my first tour mod race there. Started second and got an early lead and was very comfortable with the car. Fell to second on a restart. Then on the next restart the car got very tight and I had to hold on till the end. Still very thankful for all my crew and for this opportunity.
After two foiled attempts the American Property Solutions Modifieds finally had an opportunity to hit the 1/3 asphalt oval in Drums Pennsylvania. Chris Ridsdale and Austin Beers would draw the top two starting spots for the 75-lap main event. Beers a modified rookie jumped out to the early lead and led the first nine circuits before the first yellow slowed the field. Beers and Ridsdale would find themselves side by side for the ensuing restart. On lap 14 with an outside power move, Brian Defebo would find some racing room and dart into P2. During the next 27 laps of green flag racing we would see several battles throughout the field for track position. At the halfway point, Defebo would be our race leader over Beers, John Markovic, Earl Paules and Austin Kochenash. Buddy Miller & Paul Frantz would bring out the caution on lap 41 regrouping the field. Pits open and a fury of pit stops ensue: Paules, Hirschman, Mandato and Pritchard would head pit side for new right rear rubber. As we go back green, Kochenash quickly worked his way into second stalking down Defebo in the Defebo Graphics #53. Lap 55 and we find Kochenash leading the field. Lap 60 brings out a brief caution as Hirschman would just crack the top 5 with less than ten laps remaining. The next two laps would steal the show, as Kochenash, Pritchard, Paules and Hirschman would duke it banging wheels for the lead. Hirschman would prevail and find the top spot on lap 68. On lap 73 we would see the yellow flying again setting up a double file green, white, checkered with Hirschman cruising to victory over Kochenash and Mandato.
Modifieds (75 Laps). 1. Hirschman. 2. Kochenash. 3. Mandato. 4. Don Wagner. 5. Roger Coss. 6. Earl Paules. 7. James Pritchard. 8. Brian Sones. 9. Todd Baer. 10. Brian Defebo. 11. John Markovic. 12. Austin Beers. 13. Buddy Miller. 14. Chris Ridsdale. 15. Wayne Szerencsits. 16. Bobby Jones. 17. Randel Richard. 18. Paul Frantz.
Kyle Strohl holds off Lou Strohl in thrilling Mahoning Valley Speedway Modified action on June 8; Mike Sweeney takes Late Model laurels after leader Matt Wentz is crashed out
Kyle Strohl raced to a thrilling win over Lou Strohl for his second Modified win of the season Saturday night at Mahoning Valley Speedway. Both drivers displayed amazing car control while going double-wide over most of the later stages of the 35-lap contest. At the outset L. Strohl jumped out to a descent lead over Nick Baer but coming through swiftly was K. Strohl who by lap 10 was running second. There was still a sizable gap between first and second at that point but K. Strohl continued to chip away with each passing lap and when the 18th circuit went into the books the lead changed hands with an inside pass in turn four. On a restart with 10 laps remaining L. Strohl powered back to the lead but the ensuing tour K. Strohl regained the spot. From there to the finish it remained exceedingly close. “He (Lou Strohl) was on his set-up tonight and we were getting a little loose as he night went on and he really contested me for the victory but I wasn’t giving an inch,” said K. Strohl. “The track was really good tonight. That last restart helped him and I was nervous but luckily we got back on top. I want to say thanks to Lou for a running me clean and giving me a great race.” Interestingly for L. Strohl he almost thought about packing up and not racing after coming out to early practice and being completed unsatisfied with the results of that session. However, car owner Matt Higgins swayed him to stick around and with minimal adjustments when the night got underway, he won his heat and then drove to the near feature win. “We were honestly debating about loading up and going home that’s how bad the car was,” admitted L. Strohl. “But after we put on a different set of tires for the heat everything clicked and the car was just amazingly fast from that point. We tried and it wasn’t for the lack of effort on my part.” Not to be undone by the close action between the front pair, there was just as much of a tight battle for third between Austin Kochenash and Josh Scherer who raced to the wire for the spot. Brian DeFebo came from 13th to fifth at the end.
Modified Feature Finish (35-laps): 1. Kyle Strohl, 2. Lou Strohl, 3. Austin Kochenash, 4. Josh Scherer, 5. Brian DeFebo, 6. Bobby Jones, 7. Gene Bowers, 8. Earl Paules, 9. John Markovic, 10. Terry Markovic, 11. Nick Baer, 12. Anthony Sesely, 13. Ron Haring Jr., 14. Jacob Kerstetter, 15. Kevin Rex Jr., 16. BJ Wambold, 17. Wes Gilbert, 18. Lorin Arthofer II, 19. Austin Beers DNS: Heath Metzger
Dramatic Move Leads Emerling to RoC Victory at Spencer Speedway on May 31 - Eric finishes 2nd
It was a great night for the Beers Delange Team - Eric made the right changes to get up to second but was better on the short run and Patrick was better on the long run. Austin was running 15ht when an electrical issue shut off the motor and was unable to finish.
Patrick Emerling of Orchard Park, N.Y., made a dramatic move in traffic to get past Andy Jankowiak of Buffalo, N.Y., to take the lead and go on and win the Tribute to Don Pratt ‘62’ at Spencer Speedway presented by Wilbert’s U Pull-It in Williamson, N.Y., which began the tracks 65th consecutive season of competition. The win was the 15th of Emerling’s Race of Champions career and his third Series victory at Spencer. He’s just 1 win away from tying his crew chief, Jan Leaty, for 4th on the all-time win list.
“We had a good night tonight,” stated Emerling in victory lane. “Things went our way. We raced Andy (Jankowiak) really hard and I knew Eric (Beers) and Mike (Leaty) my teammate were coming behind me. It’s great to pay tribute to another great Modified competitor in Don Pratt and thank you to Curt Tooley for working extra hard to raise additional lap money.” Jankowiak ended up in the turn four wall on a restart, before Eric Beers of Northampton, Pa., gave Emerling a challenge to the finish. Beers finished second with Mike Leaty of Williamson, N.Y., recovering from an early race spin to finish third. Daren Scherer of Binghamton, N.Y., finished fourth and Daryl Lewis, Jr., of Ontario, N.Y., rounded out the top-five. Chuck Hossfeld of Ransomville, N.Y., posted the Speed51.com “Top of the Board” overall fast time in group time trials with a lap of 18.893 seconds with an average speed of 95.273 mph.
Leaty; Tommy Catalano of Ontario, N.Y., and Hossfeld won the qualifying races.
Chemung Speedrome’s season opener was everything a track would hope for – a nice turnout of race teams and fans, competitive racing, and beautiful weather to boot on May 18
The 75-lap RoC Modified season opener drew a field of 26 cars. Qualifying wins went to Mike Leaty, Tyler Rypkema, Zane Zeiner and Chuck Hossfeld. The top 3 in each heat drew for the top 12 starting spots during intermission and the field was set for the feature. Tyler Rypkema drew the pole and led the way, chased early on by Mike Leaty and Chuck Hossfeld. The race itself was slowed by 14 cautions, most of which were for spins in turns three and four. Andy Jankowiak, who broke into the top five about 20 laps into the race, gradually worked his way to the front of the pack and took the lead from Rypkema on lap 46. While just two drivers led, running among the top five proved to be risky behavior Saturday afternoon. Mike Leaty, Matt Hirschman and Zane Zeiner all learned that the hard way, and restarted at the back after being involved in cautions Andy Jankowiak took the lead from Rypkema on lap 46 and never looked back. He held on and picked up the win over Zack Curren, Bryan Sherwood, Zeiner and Hirschman. “I didn’t have the fastest car, but I avoided the trouble,” Jankowiak said following the win. “I didn’t pass anyone ‘til I got to third,” he said regarding the many wrecks he avoided. Staying out of trouble was key for Curren and Sherwood as well. Both mentioned how that contributed to their podium finishes.
Results:
RoC Modifieds (75 Laps): ANDY JANKOWIAK, Zack Curren, Bryan Sherwood, Zane Zeiner, Matt Hirschman, TJ Potrzebowski, Tyler Rypkema, Chris Finocchairo, Daren Scherer, George Skora III, Scott Wylie, Daryl Lewis, Jr., Mike Leaty, Donny Hartzell, Jake Rought, Austin Beers, Owen Bednasz, Eric Beers, Chuck Hossfeld, Kevin Miller, Kyle Ebersole, Brian DeFebo, Austin Kochenash, Chris Ridsdale, Karl Hehr, Ken Canestrari (DNS)
Heats: Leaty, Rypkema, Zeiner, Hossfeld
Kyle Strohl holds off Bobby Jones for Mahoning Modified top honors as Austin get 10th on May 11 at Mahoning Valley Speedway
Over the first few weeks of the 2019 season Kyle Strohl had a presence among the leaders but knew he was just a tad off in hammering the right set-up to where he wanted to be. Continuing to tweak his Paul’s Towing No. 44, the 19-year old from Palmerton finally nailed it right and the effort paid off in the form of his first Modified win of the year. “It felt pretty good out there tonight and the car was working perfectly. We had been struggling for the first few weeks but we hit on the right adjustments tonight and it finally paid off,” said Strohl. With only two cautions that slowed the action, both on lap 23, Strohl, who started sixth, had to race flat out to the front and he would battle a pair of venerable veterans in doing so, first taking on Terry Markovic and then contending down to the wire against point leader Bobby Jones. Markovic jumped to the opening lap lead and then set sail. Within four laps Strohl had advanced to third and was in close formation with Kevin Rex Jr. As Markovic showed notable speed at the helm, Rex and Strohl began a two-wide duel. Directly behind them was Jones. It would take Strohl 10 laps to annex second spot. He then continued his frontward charge and went immediately after Markovic. After a few looks from the outside, Strohl got a shot to go underneath the leader by the completion of lap 17. “Terry is a classy guy and we had to work hard to pass him but it was clean and after that away we went. The track was really good tonight and there was a lot of grip on both the outside and inside grooves.” said Strohl. By lap 20 Jones had motored up to second and was able to quickly pull alongside Strohl. On lap 23 a pair of cautions paused the action and on the second restart Jones fired past Strohl for the lead, however, the favored was returned the next time by. Try as he may from there to finish Jones looked for every opportunity to get by but Strohl had this one in hand and would record his 12th Modified win and 36th overall. Earlier this season he had scored a Sportsman Modified victory. “Bobby (Jones) was tough and that’s what you come to expect from him. He’s been the guy who’s been up front each week but tonight we hit on the right set-up and got the job done,” proclaimed Strohl. “It’s been real tight, clean hard racing and it seems everyone has figured it out all around with the Modifieds this year.” Rex stayed steady in garnering third while Earl Paules and Gene Bowers rounded out the top five.
Modified Feature Finish (35-laps): 1. Kyle Strohl, 2. Bobby Jones, 3. Kevin Rex Jr., 4. Earl Paules, 5. Gene Bowers, 6. Josh Scherer, 7. Brian DeFebo, 8. Lou Strohl, 9. Don Wagner, 10. Austin Beers, 11. Nick Baer, 12. John Markovic, 13. Terry Markovic, 14. Gary Wentz, 15. Jacob Kerstetter
Bobby Jones has week two figured out at Mahoning Valley…wins for third straight year in a thriller - Austin is 10th on April 20
(LEHIGHTON, PA. 4-20-19) It seems that week two at Mahoning Valley Speedway has become a favorite for Bobby Jones as for the third straight season the classy veteran picked up a win in the Modified feature. The 35-lap main turned out to be a great showdown as well between him and Earl Paules as they battled down to the wire. “For three years in a row we were terrible on opening night and I could never understand why. After this year’s opener we went back and did a lot of tweaking,” said Jones who won for the 23rd time at Mahoning in a Modified and recorded his 40th career overall victory. Jones, who started second to pole sitter Ron Haring Jr., would place his No. 1J into the lead with a quick diving move off turn two on lap six. Two laps later after a restart Paules advanced to second and from there on it was a cat and mouse game between the two journeymen. Paules tried numerous attempts to get by but as Jones would admit afterwards he was being very protective, especially on the inside lane where he choose to remain for most of the race.
“I slowed down to protect the bottom – I didn’t want to give that up because here once someone gets position on you on the bottom they got you,” said Jones. For Jones, it wasn’t just about keeping his lane but restarts were a factor as well. Paules, who clocked faster times throughout the event, showed several times that if he could just get the run needed after restarting that the outcome would certainly have been in his favor. “I told him (Paules) when he came alongside me on the restarts I had to be up on the wheel because he’s no slouch. He’s been at this game a long time and knows the tricks and the things to try and help yourself and I knew I had to be at my best in that situation against him,” bottom lined Jones. Over the final laps the excitement was rousing, most notably on the last circuit. With the front pair locked tight they came upon a slower car in turns 3 and 4. Jones had to react quickly as to not get trapped as Paules had a clear line from the topside to make a pass. As fate would have it for Jones he wisely stepped out enough to safeguard his spot but just barely as he held off Paules by a mere half car length. “I actually thought we were okay and we were just going to relax and stay there and I kind of relaxed too much and shouldn’t have,” explained Jones. “At the last minute I was going to go out on the lapped car because Earl was coming. As soon as I started to step out I seen him and didn’t go out as high as I should to give him room. There was a lot of respect and it was fun and good racing for both of us.” Josh Scherer and Anthony Sesely had great dogfight themselves and would finish third and fourth respectively. For Sesely, who is back racing at Mahoning for the first time in years, the placing elevated him into the point lead. Gene Bowers had a respectable run in rounding out the top five.
Modified Feature Finish (35-laps): 1. Bobby Jones, 2. Earl Paules, 3. Josh Scherer, 4. Anthony Sesely, 5. Gene Bowers, 6. Kyle Strohl, 7. Todd Baer, 8. Brian DeFebo, 9. Austin Beers, 10. Kevin Rex Jr., 11. John Markovic, 12. Terry Markovic, 13. Jacob Kerstetter, 14. Ron Haring Jr., 15. Heath Metzger DNS: Scott Adams
Austin was running a steady race until a mid race crash in front of him puts him out for the Night at Mahoning - APRIL 6
(LEHIGHTON 4-6-19) Matt Hirschman opened up Mahoning Valley Speedway’s 2019 Opening Night the same as he left for the season finale Octoberfast 2018 by parking his No. 60 in Victory Lane. The talented driver who travels and wins throughout the Eastern Seaboard, came to the track that sits closest to his Northampton home, making the 30-minute trek a profitable $3000 one after he secured victory in the 100-lap contest. Hirschman would come from 8th on the 19-car grid, taking the lead from Earl Paules while engaged in heavy lapped traffic. He then had number of close restart battles with eventual runner-up Austin Kochenash but by the later stages it was clear the race was his to lose. Hirschman crossed the finish line several car lengths ahead of Kochenash for his 17th win at Mahoning, 13 of them coming in 100+ lap events. Kyle Strohl showed good strength late in settling for third while Todd Baer ran consistently steady in securing fourth. Anthony Sesely in his return to Mahoning after a number of years away rounded out the top 5. “It was a great night. The last several Opening Nights here I watched from the grandstands and this was a lot more fun for sure although a lot harder work,” said Hirschman, who was fresh off a win a week early at Richmond International Raceway and third consecutive. “I enjoy the traveling thing but it is nice to race close to home. We had a lot of supporters who came out tonight from many different states and we’re having a great start to the season but there’s a long way to go. I look forward to be back here later this year for a few more shows.” Determined by luck of the draw and leading the field to the green was two-time and defending track champion Brian DeFebo with Kochenash flanked to his outside. DeFefo would jump out front early on while Kochenash, Paules and Hirschman began a tight battle right behind. By lap 10 Paules was getting a good run on the top side and began reeling in DeFebo. Three laps later the leader had a glitch coming off turn four which allowed Paules to seize the lead. One lap later Hirschman was second and for the next 22 laps it was close action with that pair. With no cautions during that stretch lapped traffic became a factor and for the strong running Paules it would ultimately be his downfall after what appeared to be a very promising night. As lap 36 was recorded the leaders came upon a group of cars running two abreast. Paules was holding a line to the outside but just before clearing there was contact made after the car of Nick Baer shot across his path due to a bump that he received. Paules wound up spinning while miraculously Hirschman stayed low enough to just barely avoid the situation. “My eyes where definitely looking out the right side and it was just one of those things were we caught some lapped cars that were racing ahead of us and they were telling them on the scanner to try and get signal file but it didn’t happen and unfortunately for Earl (Paules) he kind of washed up some and got clipped. I just missed him and I’m glad we did otherwise we would have been wrecked too,” explained Hirschman. When the field was reset Kochenash was now second and through a series of restarts he made some valiant attempts to sneak underneath Hirschman for the lead, successfully doing so on one of those tries only to be thwarted on the ensuing lap. “I knew on the restarts I felt pressure from behind and we got a little crossed up a couple times but once we got going the car was great but you can never let your guard down here at Mahoning,” said Hirschman. It would be perceptible over the final 25 tours that Hirschman had a lock as he was hitting his stride with each passing lap. For Kochenash he showed that 2019 has the makings of a rewarding season as he ran the entire race from no lower than third. “We just ran the tires off near the end and the clutch began slipping early on so that hurt quite a bit and it just didn’t play out today. Second (place) is not bad and well get some money and go on to the next one,” said Kochenash.
Modified Feature Finish (100-laps): 1.Matt Hirschman, 2. Austin Kochenash, 3. Kyle Strohl, 4. Todd Bear, 5. Anthony Sesely, 6. Gene Bowers, 7. Brian DeFebo, 8. Josh Scherer, 9. Don Wagner, 10. John Markovic, 11. Bobby Jones, 12. Joey Jarowicz, 13. Earl Paules, 14. Heath Metzger, 15. Nick Bear, 16. Austin Beers, 17. Scott Adams, 18. Jacob Kerstetter, 19. Ron Haring Jr.
From Austin: "Another top 5 tonight at Mahoning for the Octoberfast 150! Started 6th and was running at about that spot when I get out in the wall on the front stretch and on the next restart the car didn’t turn and I almost got turned and fell all the way to to the back. Then I got up to 4th when everyone started to pit and had to come from the back again which killed my right front. Made my way up to 2nd with a lap 142 restart and the car was to loose to do anything with it. Just thankful for my opportunity, all my guys, and my sponsors! Hopefully we can go get the win next week at Evergreen!"
Octoberfast 2019 at Mahoning Valley Speedway showcased a talent laden field of Modified drivers that saw a number of top contenders in position for the $5000 win but when the checkers fell on the 150 contest it was yet another victory going to perennial favorite Matt Hirschman as he scored an unprecedented fourth Octoberfast in the eight year history of the event. Hirschman took the lead from Austin Kochenash 25 laps from the finish and then stayed solid the rest of the way to earn his 14th overall win of 2019 and 18th at Mahoning Valley. Kochenash made a great run back towards the front after a spin and pit stop with 13 laps to go for an impressive runner-up. Austin Beers showed lots of potential and was third, Earl Paules, who was a factor throughout notched fourth while Don Wagner completed the top five. “Everything just worked out well for us tonight, being in the right spots at the right times. What a way to bookend the season here, winning the 100 lap opener and now back-to-back in the Octoberfast,” said Hirschman. “This a good paying race and we really appreciate Mahoning Valley Speedway putting on the event. It’s a nice crowd that’s here, a nice day and very glad to be here.” A redraw after qualifying heats saw BJ Wambold and Paules on the front row and when chief starter Bob Stull, who was flagging his final race at Mahoning, waved the race commencing green, it was Paules who hurried to the early lead. Wambold settled into second with 2019 division champion Bobby Jones, Tyler Haydt and Brian DeFebo closely in tow. As Paules was running a rapid pace he was also getting plenty of pressure from Wambold. Likewise Jones had his nose stuck in with the front pair which produced some very exciting action. On lap 17 Wambold aimed to the inside of Paules and was able to grab the lead, but it would be short lived as Jones made his way to the front three laps later. Unfortunately for the newly crowned champ his hopes for a second Octoberfast where dashed when he got caught up in a wreck on the back straight from cars from the tail end of the field. At the resumption Paules was back in front and again had Wambold on his tail. By lap 44 Kochenash and Hirschman had motored into second and third respectively, however, Paules pressed on as the leader despite the heavy company. After a great 41 lap stint at the head of the pack, Paules gave way to Kochenash who drove to his inside on lap 72. Paules would not waver from second and stayed close with Kochenash while holding off the advances from Hirschman.On lap 95 a caution waved for a spinning John Markovic and it would be at that period that most of the front runners opted to make a pit stop for new tires. Kochenash though remained on track. “When I saw all of those cars pit I knew I was in trouble at that point because they didn’t have to use their cars as hard with the new tires on. But my tires where still good so we elected to stay out,” said Kochenash. Indeed Kochenash was correct about those with fresh American Racer rubber. Paules was back to second 12 laps in and soon after Hirschman ran third and before long that trio was battling for the lead. Hirschman and Paules where running side-by-side in the direct path of Kochenash. By lap 124 Hirschman, who was on the low lane, nipped Paules and on the ensuing circuit was able to complete the race winning pass on Kochenash.
There was no looking back from there on as the No. 60 showed the prowess that has become the trademark in win after win when it comes to high stake races. “It was a good racing all night and guys raced clean and when you do that here you can always go side-by-side and run two grooves-plus and after we came back through I was able to make passes and do them clean and get to the lead and keep it to the finish,” said Hirschman. Following a lap 134 restart Kochenash while fighting for second with Paules spun under tight conditions on the front straight. He then dove to the pits, changed tires and made an incredible charge back before time ran out and had to settle for runner-up. “Right before that restart my tires began going away and I was running for second and then the spin happened and it was just racing hard at that point. We came back through though,” offered Kochenash who recorded his sixth second place tally of the year. “We were here for the $5000 but still second is decent. We lost a real good friend this week, Mitch Green, and I really wanted to win this for him but second was the best we could do tonight.” 16-year old Beers had come from the back several times and was hoping to make up for the Octoberfast that got away from him last year when Hirschman passed him with six laps to go. He was as high as second with five laps remaining before Kochenash passed him for the spot. “We just had a half inch too much stagger at the end and the car was really loose. It was a tough race coming from the back because of (pit) stops. I thought it would be pretty cool if I could have passed Matt for the win like he did to me last year but his car was really good and I had nothing for him,” said Beers. DeFebo, Todd Baer, Wambold, Gene Bowers and Haydt rounded out the top ten. Annexing heat wins where Haydt, Kochenash and Jones.
Modified Feature Finish (150-laps): 1. Matt Hirschman, 2. Austin Kochenash, 3. Austin Beers, 4. Earl Paules, 5. Don Wagner, 6. Brian DeFebo, 7. Todd Bear, 8. BJ Wambold, 9. Gene Bowers, 10. Tyler Haydt, 11. John Markovic, 12. Lorin Arthofer, 13. Jake Kibler, 14. Kevin Graver, 15. Kyle Strohl, 16. Terry Markovic, 17. Eric Kocher, 18. Mike Sweeney, 19. Bobby Jones, 20. Ron Haring Jr.
Eric falls just short in the effort to capture 2nd Race of Champions win - Austin an awesome 5th place run
Despite a constant threat of rain that eventually temporarily delayed the Race of Champions 250, “Big Money” Matt Hirschman wouldn’t let it rain on his parade, scoring his seventh Race of Champions 250 win at Lake Erie Speedway Saturday. Hirschman set the pace from the start, managing his tires while leading the field from the drop of the green flag. His red 60 modified would go on to lead through the fuel stop, before finally pitting for tires during a caution on lap 157. George Skora III would inherit the lead during the pit cycle, taking the lead just in time for a quick lake effect rain shower to douse the Erie, PA facility on lap 171. Despite Skora III’s prayers for the event to end, a valiant effort by track officials was able to dry the track through spitting precipitation and fog that had rolled in off the track’s namesake lake. Skora led briefly following the rain delay, but Hirschman had no problem cutting through the field with fresh tires. Hirschman fell to tenth on the pit cycle, but returned to the lead just 15 laps later. Despite late charges by Skora III and Eric Beers, Hirschman never looked back, leading the last 60 laps to score his fifth straight Race of Champions 250 win, adding to his wins at Oswego and Chemung. Hirschman was fully aware of his accomplishment in victory lane. “It’s incredible, taking a moment just to think about it," said Hirschman. "There are races that are run every year and I know there are some that I’ve gone back-to-back, sometimes three in a row. Never a race to win five straight years in a row, at different tracks. Records are made to be broken, but that one’s going to be a tough one to beat. There are so many things that have to align, regardless if you have a car that’s fast enough to win, a pit crew that’s fast enough to get you out of the pits, so many stars need to align to win a race like this.” Hirschman was grateful of the effort put in by the track crew to get the track ready for racing after the rain moved through on lap 171. “When we went back green the track was as good if not better than it was earlier in the race. The outside was actually cleaner from the marbles and things when we went back green. It was the right thing to do to wait it out and get the race in. Had another shot of rain come through, it probably would have been over. I would have shaken the 65’s (Skora III) hand, can’t control the weather. If he had been the winner because of that, hey, go down in history, can’t take that away from him. I would have been deflated; I knew we had a car certainly better than where we were.”Hirschman was not the only winner following the Race of Champions 250, as the Race of Champions Modified Series handed their 2019 championship trophy to Patrick Emerling for the second time. Emerling missed the first race of the season due to schedule conflicts, but managed to string together a series of consistently good finishes throughout the remaining campaign. Andy Jankowiak entered the race with the championship lead, but fell out early with mechanical issues, handing the championship to Emerling. Emerling was excited to have prevailed in the championship but was cognizant of the effort made to come from behind and win the championship. “There’s awesome competition in this series. Skipping the first race, we were 100 points down right off the bat, was going to be really tough for us to come back. We just had really solid runs week in and week out, we’d show up to the track and be in contention to win. I think pretty much every race was a podium finish for us. I think my team, we earned it. It just comes to show what we can do. We’re going to continue to get better here.”
Race of Champions 250 Results
1 – Matt Hirschman
2 – Eric Beers
3 – George Skora III
4 – Scott Wylie
5 – Austin Beers
6 – Chuck Hossfeld
7 – Patrick Emerling
8 – Daren Scherer
9 – Mike Leaty
10 – Randall Richard
11 – Kyle Ebersole
12 – Daryl Lewis Jr.
13 – Chris Risdale
14 – Chris Finnachario
15 – Dan Majchrzak
16 – Jack Ely
17 – Andy Jankowiak
18 – Jimmy Zacharias
19 – David Kozlowski
20 – Jeff Szafreniec
21 – Kevin Timmerman
22 – Kevin Miller
23 – Jake Wylie
24 – Mike Ramos
25 – Ricky Knapp
Brian DeFebo wins Mahoning Modified 50 on September 21 - Austin gets a great 4th place finish
Saturday night’s 50-lap Modified feature at Mahoning Valley Speedway won by Brian DeFebo served as a prelude to the marquee Octoberfast 150 on October 12 and the indication for the $5000-to-win event will be an outstanding display of racing evidenced by the great exhibit of competition throughout the field.
DeFebo withstood a throng of pressure from runner-up Kyle Strohl, newly crowned champion Bobby Jones and Austin Beers before pulling away late for a two car length margin of victory worth $2000. It was his third win of 2019 and 105th overall. DeFebo took the reins of the race on lap nine from a very impressive running BJ Wambold. Afterwards he began to check out on the pack. Wambold stayed strong holding onto second before Strohl unseated him 21 laps in. Still at that point DeFebo was the dominant car as Strohl was several lengths back. It wouldn’t be until a restart on lap 32 that DeFebo was under the gun as Strohl and Jones stepped up their game and stayed hot on the leader’s tail and it shortly thereafter Beers hitched along and made it a close four car battle. DeFebo had no choice but to guard both high and low lanes as the trio continued coming on strong against him. Strohl was able to secure second spot within the closing laps while Beers was ever-so-close to unseating Jones. By that point, however, DeFebo wasn’t having any parts of that as he pulled slightly ahead by the time the checkers waved. “This is really exciting and I love racing here,” said DeFebo. “I didn’t want to lead that early on and I knew the car was very good but you have to take advantage of it when can to get out front and set your own pace. This is definitely a warm-up for that 150 (lapper) and we are hoping for the same results.” Runner-up Strohl, who locked the Sportsman Modified title the week prior when rain cancelled that show, was the only other driver that had a shot at Jones for the Modified crown. Jones’ third place earned him his first track championship in 25 years and first here in a Modified. Beers was advancing nicely before the race ended and is a pre-race favorite for Octoberfast where he was second to Matt Hirschman a year ago. Wambold meanwhile turned plenty of heads with his fine drive as he recorded his first top five with a Modified.
Feature Finish (50-laps): 1. Brian DeFebo, 2. Kyle Strohl, 3. Bobby Jones, 4. Austin Beers, 5. BJ Wambold, 6. John Markovic, 7. Earl Paules, 8. Lorin Arthofer, 9. Josh Scherer, 10. Eric Kocher, 11. Stacey Brown, 12. Jarred Nace, 13. DJ Wagner, 14, Terry Markovic, 15. Corey Edelman, 16. Austin Kochenash, 17. Nick Bear, 18. Anthony Sesely, 19. Heath Metzger, 20. Don Wagner, 21. Todd Bear
US OPEN at Lancaster Speedway goes to Patrick Emerling on September 15 - Eric comes home 7th
Patrick Emerling of Orchard Park, N.Y. won the 31st annual U.S. Open 125 Race of Champions Modified Series event on Sunday afternoon at Lancaster Speedway @ New York International Raceway Park. It was the second career U.S. Open win for Emerling, after winning the event back in 2016. In supporting action from the final day of the U.S. Open, Eldon King III of Freedom, N.Y. won the Race of Champions Late Model Series feature. Rich Sharpe of Lancaster won the U.S. Open Street Stock feature for the fourth-straight year, and for the fifth time in the last six years. Andy Jankowiak and Timmy Catalano led the field of 24 Modifieds to the opening green flag of the U.S. Open 125. Jankowiak led the opening lap before giving way to Catalano. Catalano controlled the pace through the first 20 laps of the event. The yellow flag was displayed for the first time on lap 20 when Chris Ridsdale spun. Mike Leaty started fourth after setting fast time in qualifying and winning his heat race. He moved into second behind Catalano when the race restarted on lap 27. Leaty took the lead on the following restart 11 laps later. Catalano did not let Leaty get away without a fight, however, as he chased Leaty for 15 laps before recapturing the lead on 53. His brother, Tommy Catalano, was running third until a mechanical issue took him out contention on lap 57. The caution flag was displayed again when Catalano stopped on the race track, which set off the first round of pit stops. Catalano, Emerling, Jankowiak, Scott Wylie and Owen Bednasz were among the ten cars that decided to pit. Leaty was handed the lead back as Catalano made his pit visit. He was joined at the front of the field by Eric Beers, Matt Hirschman, George Skora III and TJ Potrzebowski when the race restarted just after the halfway point. The misfortune for the Catalano family continued on lap 76 when Amy Catalano stopped on the track with an issue to bring out the yellow flag again. Leaty and Skora came to the pits during this caution period, which gave the lead to Beers and moved Hirschman to second. Hirschman, the defending and five-time U.S. Open winner, didn’t waste time on the restart as he pulled away from Beers. It looked like Hirschman could be on his way to a sixth win on lap 87 when Chuck Hossfeld and Timmy Catalano made contact in turn one to signal the final caution period of the race. Hirschman and Beers pitted at this time to try and set themselves up for about a 30-lap dash through the field. Emerling was handed the lead when Hirschman and Beers, which were the final two cars in the field to pit. Jankowiak lined up second followed by Hossfeld, Kevin Miller and Timmy Catalano. The race restarted with 31 laps to go, and Emerling and Jankowiak took off from the field as they turn things into a two car battle for the win. Jankowiak appeared to have the stronger car early in the stretch run as he pressed Emerling especially on the outside through turns one and two. Emerling ran that outside line to block the advances of Jankowiak. merling began to pull away in the final 15 laps as Jankowiak’s car started to fade. He pulled out to over a one second advantage as Emerling worked through lapped traffic. Emerling cruised to the checkered flag for his second win in the U.S. Open 125. His victory, combined with a second place run in Friday’s Tommy Druar/Tony Jankowiak Memorial 110, has allowed Emerling to close within two points of Jankowiak for the RoC Modified Series points lead.
Jankowiak finished second after a strong showing. Leaty came home third to give his L2 Autosport team two cars in the top three. Hirschman finished fourth after his strategy to pit late did not go as well as he had hoped. He got hung up in traffic, and wasn’t able to move through the field until very late. Chuck Hossfeld finished fifth in what could be his final U.S. Open start as he has announced he will retire from driving full-time at the end of this season.
RACE OF CHAMPIONS MODIFIED SERIES
Fast Qualifier: Mike Leaty – 17.041 seconds
Heat Winners: Mike Leaty, Andy Jankowiak, Patrick Emerling
U.S. Open 125 Finish: PATRICK EMERLING, Andy Jankowiak, Mike Leaty, Matt Hirschman, Chuck Hossfeld, George Skora III, Eric Beers, Timmy Catalano, Kevin Miller, Owen Bednasz, Scott Wylie, Tyler Rypkema, Daren Scherer, Amy Catalano, Dan Majchrzak, T.J. Potrzebowski, Chris Ridsdale, Austin Beers, Tommy Catalano, Daryl Lewis, Jr., Mark Tychoniewicz, Dave DiPietro, Jake Rought, Andy Lewis
Matt Hirschman of Northampton, PA wins the 30th annual Tommy Druar/Tony Jankowiak Memorial on September 13 at Lancaster Speedway @ New York International Raceway Park Eric gets 3rd while Austin gets 12th
The 110-lap race originally started on August 17, but was halted after six laps after a crash by Karl Hehr damaged the catch fence on the front straightaway. The race resumed on Friday night to kick off the 31st annual U.S. Open weekend at Lancaster. When the race was stopped Eric Beers was scored as the leader followed by Chuck Hossfeld, Patrick Emerling, Daren Scherer and Daryl Lewis, Jr. The race resumed 27 days after it was halted, and Beers retained his command of the field followed by Hossfeld and Emerling. Hossfeld developed an issue around lap 20 and began dropping through field. He eventually spun out in turn two on lap 24 to bring out the yellow flag. Hossfeld would be in and out of the pits throughout the rest of the race. Several of the front runners pitted during the caution period, including Emerling, Daren Scherer, Amy Catalano and Kevin Miller. The race restarted on lap 32, but was quickly under the caution flag again when RoC Series points leader Andy Jankowiak, Chris Ridsdale and George Skora III tangled in turn three. Jankowiak’s car drove over the front end of Ridsdale. He went to the pits, but came back out with something dragging from the rear of the car. Beers continued to lead the race with Tommy Catalano now in second place followed by Matt Hirschman and Amy Catalano. Jankowiak stopped on the track to bring out the yellow flag again on lap 41. The race went past the halfway point with Beers still leading. Catalano and Hirschman traded the runner-up position back and forth. Emerling led the cars that pitted earlier in the race, and was up to fourth place by lap 57. Owen Bednasz spun out on lap 71 to bring out the caution flag after just over 20 laps of racing under green. This gave Beers and Hirschman the opportunity to pit for a new tire while Catalano elected to stay out. Catalano inherited the lead when Beers pitted, which also moved Emerling to second followed by Scherer, Skora, Hirschman and Beers. It took Emerling just three laps to get by Catalano when the race restarted. Hirschman quickly moved his way to the front of the field, and he passed Catalano for second lap 83. Emerling and Hirschman eventually pulled away from the pack. Skora and Miller tangled on lap 97 to cause another caution period. Hirschman continued to pursue Emerling when the race restarted. On lap 100, Hirschman got a run to the inside of Emerling down the frontstretch. He was able to stay to the inside of Emerling going into turn one, and took the lead for good by the time they exited turn two.
One final caution with five laps to go was all that separated Matt Hirschman from his fourth career win in the Tommy/Tony 110. He pulled away in the final circuits to secure his first RoC Modified Series win of 2019. Emerling had to settle for second, but he managed to cut Andy Jankowiak’s series points lead to just 12. Beers finished third with Kevin Miller and Tommy Catalano rounded out the top five.
RACE OF CHAMPIONS MODIFIED SERIES RESULTS
Fast Qualifier: Mike Leaty – 17.123 seconds
Heat Winners: Chuck Hossfeld, Mike Leaty, Amy Catalano
30th annual Tommy Druar/Tony Jankowiak Memorial 110 finish: MATT HIRSCHMAN, Patrick Emerling, Eric Beers, Kevin Miller, Tommy Catalano, Daren Scherer, Owen Bednasz, Amy Catalano, George Skora III, Alan Bookmiller, Chris Ridsdale, Austin Beers, Andy Jankowiak, Chuck Hossfeld, Scott Wylie, Bobby Hanel, Timmy Catalano, Dave Kozlowski, Daryl Lewis, Jr., Mike Leaty, Tyler Catalano, Karl Hehr, Bill Mislin, Randall Richard
Austin races to 4th place Finish at Evergreen Raceway - September 6
Modifieds (50)
1- Roger Coss
2- Matt Hirschman
3- Anthony Sessely
4- Austin Beers
5- Austin Kichenash
6- James Pritchard Jr
7- Don Wagner
8- Jonathan Mandato
9- Earl Paules
10- Brian Sones
11- Bobby Jones
12- Josh Scherer
13- Paul Monkoski
14- Broc Brown
15- Tommy Wanick III
16- Brandon Oltra
17- Ron Haring
18- Brian DeFebo
19- Ricky Ross Jr
Karl Hehr accident postpones Lancaster Race of Champions Race on August 17 to September 13 while Eric was leading
By Larry Ott
A frightening accident involving Karl Hehr Saturday evening caused the postponement of the remainder of the Race of Champions Asphalt Modified Series Tommy Druar/Tony Jankowiak Memorial 110 at New York International Raceway Park. Hehr started Saturday's annual event from the outside pole. He was racing in the top 10 when his car suddenly veered head on into the front stretch wall at the exit of Turn Four on lap six of the scheduled 110-lap distance. The high speed impact sent the protective foam blocks that line the wall flying, and a large section of the wheel fence was also torn down and heavily damaged. Hehr's car then overturned and came to rest upside down. The red flag was displayed. The NYIRP safety team headed by Mike Myers was immediately on the scene. A few minutes later after the car was turned back over, Hehr exited the car under his own power and received a large ovation from the relieved grandstand spectators as he walked to the ambulance. After an evaluation, Hehr was transported to Erie County Medical Center for observation. No spectators were injured in the incident. Hehr spoke briefly with The News on Sunday from ECMC where he was still recovering. "I'm still in the hospital with a possible lower back issue today," Hehr said. "I will be further examined on Monday and hopefully can be released Monday. I'm still very sore. I sincerely want to thank the fans and everyone else in the racing community for all the concern they have shown to me and my family since the accident. I'm also very grateful to the safety crew who handled my situation very well. They're the best." Hehr is a successful veteran driver who is extremely popular with both the fans and the participants in the pits. He is the 1993 and 1995 track Sportsman champion and a past winner of the Modified portion of the U.S. Open. Due to the extensive damage to the wheel fence, the amount of time it would take to fix it and with it already being after 11 p.m., ROC and NYIRP stock car coordinator Joe Skotnicki decided to postpone the rest of the race distance until Sept. 13, the first day of NYIRP's annual U.S. Open Weekend. When the race resumes, the running order at the time of the red flag will find Eric Beers, Chuck Hossfeld, Patrick Emerling, Daren Scherer and Daryl Lewis Jr. comprising the top five for the restart. Skotnicki explained his rationale behind his decision to postpone. "The fans and the racers' safety is paramount," Skotnicki said. "The fans of course come first. Although I'm sure some fans aren't happy, it's a decision we had to make. Structurally, could we have repaired it? Maybe. But then you're putting people at a later and later hour. The decision with an open night and I surveyed a couple of folks and came to the conclusion that the postponement is the right thing to do." Skotnicki also praised the NYIRP safety crew and race officials who worked quickly and efficiently in a difficult scenario. "Those guys are the best," Skotnicki said. "Mike Myers and that whole operation that Mike's created is great. I've seen racing at so many places and there's crews that will rival them but none better. Hats off to those guys because they make sure they've got everything buttoned up every night. "Friday night (Sept. 13) of the U.S. Open we will still have practice," Skotnicki said. "We're going to host practice for all the teams. The teams that weren't here tonight will obviously have to pay to get into the pits, but the fans will be admitted free and we'll restart this race from lap six at 8 p.m. that evening and finish it up. Then maybe we'll have a little party and celebrate the rest of it. "The hard part of this decision is that some people will be cynical and critical about it, but this could have happened at 8 o'clock at night or 9 o'clock at night or 10:30. It didn't matter. The decision would have been the same because we're thinking big picture and not just trying to get the race done. We want everybody to get home with the best experience possible and that certainly wasn't the best experience tonight." The postponement also means that the ROC Modifieds will race the remaining 104 laps on that Friday and in short order have to return two days later on September 15 to run the previously scheduled U.S. Open 125 weekend headlining finale event.
EVERGREEN AUGUST 9 - AUSTIN RUNNING GOOD RAN INTO SOME TROUBLE
Had a tough night last night at Evergreen Speedway. Started 10th and slowly worked up to 4th and was passing for 3rd and really wasn’t given enough room to make a pass and ended losing a couple positions because of it. Then I was working my way back up and a car got loose in front of me hit his brakes and I had no where to go and got sent to the rear but recovered for a 9th place finish. Thank you to all my sponsors and crew and can’t wait for Lancaster next Saturday!
WHAT A NIGHT AT CHEMUNG SPEEDWAY ON AUGUST 3 - ERIC GETS CAUGHT UP IN WRECK - AUSTIN SOLID 17th
Patrick Emerling of Orchard Park, N.Y., earned his 16th career Race of Champions Asphalt Modified Series victory this past Saturday in the Rod Spalding Classic at Chemung (N.Y.) Speedrome. Emerling’s win ties him with his crew chief, Jan Leaty of Williamson, N.Y., for fourth on the all-time win list.
Emerling started 10th and methodically worked his way through the field, ultimately wrestling the lead away from TJ Potrzebowski of Elmira, N.Y., on lap 45 and heading to victory lane. “We’ve been challenged here, looking for speed,” stated Emerling from victory lane. “But we found it tonight. The car was good throughout the race and I just used some patience to get into a position to win. It can get wild here. I’m proud of my team, we’ve had a long weekend and this is a good way to end it.” Owen Bednasz of Lakeview, N.Y., led the field to the green and led the first circuit before Potrzebowski claimed the top spot. Tyler Rypkema of Owego, N.Y., took his turn out front after passing Potrzebowski, while the action was fast and furious behind him. Potrzebowski then slipped back into the lead just before halfway and led until Emerling went in to the top spot for good. Matt Hirschman of Northampton, Pa., finished second, while Austin Kochenash of Danielsville, Pa., finished third. Brian Defebo of Scranton, Pa., came home fourth while Scott Wylie of Blasdell, N.Y., finished fifth. Hirschman posted the fastest time during group qreen-white-checker qualifying with a time of 14.903 (90.586 mph). Rypkema, Chuck Hossfeld of Ransomville, N.Y., Mike Leaty of Williamson, N.Y., and Jack Ely of Wall Township, N.J., won the qualifying races.
1 10 07 Patrick Emerling
2 5 60 Matt Hirschman
3 6 66 Austin Kochensash
4 18 53 Brian Defebo
5 19 88 Scot Wyle
6 17 12 Andy Jankowiak
7 2 72 TJ Potrzebowski
8 3 22 Chuck Hossfeld
9 12 25 Mike Leaty
10 13 10l Daryl Lewis, Jr.
11 4 32 Tyler Rypkema
12 11 45 Eric Beers
13 15 95 Bryan Sherwood
14 14 3 Daren Scherer
15 22 2 Kevin Miller
16 21 9 Brandon Oltra
17 20 19 Austin Beers
18 1 48 Owen Bednasz 74
19 16 40r Jake Rought
20 8 4 Zack Knowlden 73 Accident
21 24 6 Scott Hossfeld 67
22 9 54e Jack Ely 50 Mechanical
23 7 5 Kyle Ebersole 36 Mechanical
24 23 94 Zack Curren 26 Mechanical
40-year veteran John Markovic still as good as ever after dazzling Modified verdict at Mahoning Valley Speedway on July 27th as Austin goes from 17th to 4th
John Markovic has been racing for 40 years, amassing a distinguished career over that span of countless wins, numerous championships and respect amongst his peers. Saturday night at Mahoning Valley Speedway in front of packed grandstand for Fan Appreciation Night, his years of experience shined with a brilliant drive over hard charging Austin Kochenash and Kevin Rex Jr. Markovic nabbed the lead from Nick Baer on lap 12. For the balance of the race he was lodged in a torrid battle with Kochenash, who made frequent attempts to gain the lead. Under intense conditions both thrilled the enthusiastic crowd in a spectacular double-wide formation. Late into the going Rex joined in the fight as he and Kochenash traded back and forth for second spot all while looking for the opportunity to advance past Markovic. After a grueling battle among the trio, Markovic finally powered far enough ahead over the waning laps to secure his second win of the season and 38thoverall at Mahoning Valley. In the meanwhile Kochenash and Rex remained locked neck and neck to the finish with Kochenash earning the spot by a bumper. Austin Beers and Baer completed the top five.
Modified Feature Finish (35-laps): 1.John Markovic, 2. Austin Kochenash, 3. Kevin Rex, 4. Austin Beers, 5. Nick Baer, 6. Kyle Strohl, 7. Lou Strohl, 8. Bobby Jones, 9. Beau Drobot, 10. Heath Metzger, 11. Jacob Kerstetter, 12. Terry Markovic, 13. Brett Wentz, 14. BJ Wambold, 15. Corey Edelman, 16. Ron Haring Jr., 17. Brian DeFebo, 18. Earl Paules, 19. Todd Bear, 20. Gene Bowers, DNS: Eric Kocher
Eric has a strong run at Spencer with a top 5 finish while Austin stayed out of trouble to finish 14th
Andy Jankowiak of Buffalo, N.Y., turned in a dominating performance to win the Race of Champions Asphalt Modified Series Spencer Speedway presented by Wilbert’s U-Pull It 65th Anniversary 100 this past Friday. It was the 9th victory of Jankowiak’s career, but first at Spencer. Jankowiak drew the pole, used a timely pitstop and went on to win the 100-lap event. “This was big for us,” stated Jankowiak. “We had a great car all night. Spencer has presented me with its challenges however tonight we were able to overcome them and end up in victory lane. I’m proud of our entire team. Everything went our way. I’m lucking to get to drive this car. Tonight was an awesome victory for this team and we’re going to celebrate this one.” Jankowiak, flanked by Scott Wylie of Blasdell, N.Y., led the field to the green. Jankowiak had to withstand the advances of Chuck Hossfeld of Ransomville, N.Y., to hang on to the top spot. After a series of mid-race pitstops Jankowiak worked his way back to the spot and took command until the checkers flew. Wylie ended up second. Daryl Lewis of Ontario, N.Y., finished third.
Amy Catalano of Ontario, N.Y., finished fourth with Eric Beers of Northampton, Pa., rounding out the top-five. Chuck Hossfeld of Ransomville, N.Y., posted the Speed51.com “Top of the Board” overall fast time in group time trials with a lap of 19.085 seconds with an average speed of 94.315 mph.
Austin Beers and Brian DeFebo share Modified spotlight at Evergreen Raceway on July 19 -
Austin gets his first Tour Type Modified Win
Evergreen Raceway staged twin-25 lap Modified features Friday night and although there was a great field of cars on hand with any number of potential winners, the outcome saw two formidable names gracing Victory Lane as Austin Beers and Brian DeFebo picked up respective wins. For Beers, it marked his second straight track win but career first in a full Modified. Two weeks ago he had just won for the first time in B-mod. DeFebo, who is the track’s all-time career wins leader, won for the 58th time in a Modified at Evergreen and 86th time at the 1/3-mile paved oval. In the first feature Bobby Jones jumped ahead of Randal Richards for the opening lap lead and by lap three Beers was controlling second. Soon after began a torrid battle between Jones and Beers as they exchanged the lead several times over the next 10 laps. On lap 14 the battle paused due to a three car collision in turn three. It would be on that that restart that Beers executed his race winning move. As the pair took the green to resume the action, Beers used the outside lane to beat Jones into turn one. Unlike before when they were swapping the top spot, Beers was able to hammer down and pull away from Jones and the rest of the pack for the popular verdict. Matt Hirschman drove from 16th to third while John Markovic and Lou Strohl completed the top five. “This is awesome and I honestly didn’t think we’d have a chance with my second time in a Tour Mod here but the pieces fell in place and we got it done. The car was on rails and perfect everywhere,” said 16-year old Beers. “Racing with Bobby (Jones) was great. We touched once but it was nothing huge, we raced with respect.” For the second feature Todd Baer outgunned John Markovic for the early lead. Eighth starting DeFebo was picking his way forward and by lap 13 was second and approaching Baer quickly until a caution thwarted his effort. On the restart there would be no denying his strong running No. 53 as he blasted past Baer for the lead. Once in front it was no contest as he extended comfortably ahead en route to his 103rd overall feature victory. “We didn’t touch a thing from the first race. I was just waiting in the first feature but then got hit and that just set us back there,” said DeFebo. “Once I got in the lead I was in cruise control. We came here with a plan and at least we got half that plan.” Hirschman came home second after starting 12th. Unfortunately time wasn’t on his side in the night cap to mount a challenge to DeFebo. He ended his night passing the most cars in the combined twin-bill. Roger Coss, Don Wagner and Baer rounded out the top five.
TOMMY CATALANO TAKES HOME FIRST RACE OF CHAMPIONS ASPHALT MODIFIED SERIES WIN AT JUKASA ON JULY 13
With a pair of fierce Modified competitors breathing down his nick, Tommy Catalano broke through to score his first Race of Champions (RoC) Asphalt Modified Series victory Saturday night at Jukasa Motor Speedway. The 21-year-old racer from Ontario, New York fended off a vicious charge from Andy Jankowiak over the final laps before parking his No. 54 Modified in victory lane in Hagersville, Ontario. “They may have been breathing down my neck but I don’t know if I was breathing at all,” Catalano joked after the race. “That was definitely huge.”
Catalano’s path to victory lane was anything but ordinary After starting sixth, he began methodically making his way to the front during the first half of the race. As dark clouds began approaching the race track with Chuck Hossfeld leading the race, Catalano knew it was time to get up and go. He closed in on the back of Hossfeld’s No. 22 just before rain drops started falling and race officials sent the field to pit road. Following a rain delay that last just over an hour, the race resumed with heavy smoke coming from the rear of Hossfeld’s Modified. On the restart, Hossfeld drifted up just high enough for Catalano to fill the hole and power to his inside down the backstretch to challenge for the lead. Catalano completed the pass in turn four to take the lead for the first time on Lap 67.A late restart with 11 laps to go stacked the field back up with Emerling and Jankowiak right behind Catalano. When Emerling’s bid came up short on the restart, Jankowiak charged by Emerling to take over second and begin challenging Catalano for the lead. After trying high, low and everywhere in between, Jankowiak’s vicious bid for the lead came up just short. The result: a very happy Tommy Catalano and family celebrating the rising star’s first RoC Asphalt Modified Series victory. “This is huge. At the beginning of this race I said it’s a long race and I just wanted to take it easy for a few. I wanted to get to (lap) 60 and try to save a little bit. Last year we had a good car and just burned it up way early,” Catalano explained. “When the rain was coming in tonight and it was close to halfway, I said it was time to go, so I started putting the pressure on Chuck. I knew I wanted to be leading if it started raining and I kind of dropped the ball on that. When we ended up in the rain delay and they said we were going to go back racing, that was when I knew it was my redemption shot. “That start he pushed up just a touch and I knew that was my opportunity so I filled the hole the best I could. We never touched so it was awesome.”
Jankowiak, like most racers would be, was disappointed to finish second but was happy for Catalano. “I hate finishing second but congrats to Tommy Catalano,” Jankowiak said. “He ran a heck of a race and his big RoC win has been coming, so today is his day. Congratulations to him. It was fun racing. He was defending it perfect. I don’t know if I was going to get him but I had a good run down here on the last lap and the car jumped out of gear when it hit the apron. I wasn’t going to get him down the frontstretch so I figured I had one more shot down the backstretch and we were going to go race for it.” Emerling completed the podium in the third spot, while early race leader Chuck Hossfeld and Scott Wylie completed the top five.
Pos Start Driver Hometown Car
1 6 Tommy Catalano Ontario, NY 54C
2 11 Andy Jankowiak Tonawanda, NY 12X
3 10 Patrick Emerling Orchard Park, NY 07
4 1 Chuck Hossfeld Ransomville, NY 22
5 12 Scott Wylie Blasdell , NY 88
6 3 Owen Bednasz New York, NY 48
7 4 Eric Beers North Hampton, PA 45B
8 2 Daren Scherer Binghamton, NY 3
9 8 Amy Catalano Ontario, NY 64
10 17 Kevin Miller Rochester, NY 2
11 15 George Skora III Eden, NY 65
12 7 Jack Ely Wall, NJ 54E
13 9 Bill Mislin Buffalo, NY 99
14 21 Randall Richard 0
15 14 Karl Hehr Cheektowaga, NY 59
16 13 AJ Emms 14
17 18 Timmy Catalano Ontario, NY 45C
18 22 Austin Beers Northampton, PA 573X
19 5 Mike Leaty Williamson, NY 25
20 19 Andy Lewis Ontario, NY 65L
21 16 Paul Townson Guelph, ON 2T
22 20 Daryl Lewis Jr. Ontario, NY 10
YOUNG AUSTIN BEERS HAS A GREAT DAY AT EVERGREEN RACEWAY ON JUNE 30 -Win and 2nd
Awesome day at Evergreen Raceway today. Started 2nd in the make up feature and the car was a little tight and couldn’t complete the pass on the leader and ended up 2nd. Won my heat and redrew the pole for the regular feature. Car was tight but was in a great battle for the win and won it! Can’t thank all my sponsors and crew for all that they do!
BEERS BOYS HAVE A GOOD NIGHT AT ROC LANCASTER RACE - Austin gets 13th Eric gets 5th
June 27, 2019 . . A near capacity crowd welcomed the 60th consecutive season of stock car racing at Lancaster Speedway @ New York International Raceway Park on Thursday night as Andy Jankowiak of Tonawanda, N.Y. won the 5th annual Ol’ Boy Cup 60 Bill Colton Memorial race for the Race of Champions Modified Series.The event was the first stock car race held under the New York International Raceway Park (NYIRP) ownership group, which purchased the facility in late April. NYIRP has partnered with the management and staff of the Race of Champions to put on a six-race schedule of stock car races in 2019.
A total of 25 RoC Modifieds were on hand for the first of three visits by the series this season at Lancaster. Timmy Catalano and Daryl Lewis, Jr. were scheduled to lead the field to the opening green flag. Things did not go as planned for Lewis, however, as he pulled out of line just as the field came out of turn four to take the green. He stopped on the track to put the start of the race on hold.This moved Scott Wylie to the front row for the second attempt to start the race. Wylie capitalized on this as he grabbed the lead from Catalano when the race got under way. Eric Beers eventually settled into second followed by Patrick Emerling, Catalano and Chuck Hossfeld.Emerling, a former Ol’ Boy Cup winner, wasted little time as he moved from his seventh starting position to take over second from Beers on lap 6. The race continued just past the halfway point without another caution as Wylie and Emerling pulled out to a slight advantage over the field.Jankowiak started 10th after winning his heat race. He passed Hossfeld for third on lap 14, but was over a second behind the leaders at this point. Jankowiak made up the ground, and was challenging Emerling for second right before the caution came out on lap 31 for a spin by Jake Rought.The race took a dramatic turn following a restart on lap 34. Wylie and Emerling were racing for the lead in turn two when the pair made contact. Wylie suffered a damaged left front wheel, and lost control of the car. A few cars were caught up in the chaos the ensued. Daryl Lewis, Jr. hit a Thermal Foam block protecting an infield light pole, but was able to drive away. Jack Ely suffered the worst damaged, which ended his night. Wylie’s night was also done after leading the first 34 laps.Emerling lost momentum when he made contact with Wylie and slipped back to second place. Jankowiak was scored as the leader when the race restarted followed by Emerling, Catalano, Hossfeld and Beers.Catalano got past Emerling for second on the restart. This allowed Jankowiak to pull away as the pair battled for position. He looked to be on cruise control to an easy victory when a pair of yellow flags on lap 48 bunched the field up one more time.
Emerling regained second on the restart, and then went after Jankowiak to try and take the lead. He hounded Jankowiak throughout the final 10 laps, looking to make an inside move. While Emerling looked to have the stronger car, Jankowiak did a masterful job of not relinquishing the inside line. Jankowiak held on to capture the Ol’ Boy Cup V for his fourth career RoC Modified win at Lancaster. He has won four of the last ten RoC races at Lancaster dating back to the start of the 2017 season.While he has done a lot of traveling to other tracks up and down the East Coast this season, Jankowiak was happy to be back in victory lane at the track he grew up at.“It is fun going in the truck to Riverhead, Bowman Gray and Seekonk, but this is home, and I’m glad so many fans came out to support this race tonight at Lancaster,” said Jankowiak.Emerling had to settle for second followed by Hossfeld, Catalano and Beers. The RoC Modifieds return to Lancaster on August 17 for the 30th annual Tommy Druar/Tony Jankowiak Memorial 110.
RESULTS
RACE OF CHAMPIONS MODIFIED SERIES
Fast Qualifier: Mike Leaty – 17.232
Heat Winners: Eric Beers, Andy Jankowiak, Tommy Catalano
Ol’ Boy Cup V Finish: ANDY JANKOWIAK, Patrick Emerling, Chuck Hossfeld, Tommy Catalano, Eric Beers, Amy Catalano, Daren Scherer, Daryl Lewis, Jr., Owen Bednasz, John Barber, Chris Ridsdale, Dan Majchrzak, Austin Beers, Mike Leaty, Jake Rought, Bobby Weber, Timmy Catalano, Alan Bookmiller, Chris Finocchario, Scott Wylie, Jack Ely, Karl Hehr, Kevin Miller, George Skora III, Danny Knoll, Jr.
Hirschman shows cards late for first win of the year at Evergreen on June 14
Austin's thoughts: Ended up 12th at evergreen last night for my first tour mod race there. Started second and got an early lead and was very comfortable with the car. Fell to second on a restart. Then on the next restart the car got very tight and I had to hold on till the end. Still very thankful for all my crew and for this opportunity.
After two foiled attempts the American Property Solutions Modifieds finally had an opportunity to hit the 1/3 asphalt oval in Drums Pennsylvania. Chris Ridsdale and Austin Beers would draw the top two starting spots for the 75-lap main event. Beers a modified rookie jumped out to the early lead and led the first nine circuits before the first yellow slowed the field. Beers and Ridsdale would find themselves side by side for the ensuing restart. On lap 14 with an outside power move, Brian Defebo would find some racing room and dart into P2. During the next 27 laps of green flag racing we would see several battles throughout the field for track position. At the halfway point, Defebo would be our race leader over Beers, John Markovic, Earl Paules and Austin Kochenash. Buddy Miller & Paul Frantz would bring out the caution on lap 41 regrouping the field. Pits open and a fury of pit stops ensue: Paules, Hirschman, Mandato and Pritchard would head pit side for new right rear rubber. As we go back green, Kochenash quickly worked his way into second stalking down Defebo in the Defebo Graphics #53. Lap 55 and we find Kochenash leading the field. Lap 60 brings out a brief caution as Hirschman would just crack the top 5 with less than ten laps remaining. The next two laps would steal the show, as Kochenash, Pritchard, Paules and Hirschman would duke it banging wheels for the lead. Hirschman would prevail and find the top spot on lap 68. On lap 73 we would see the yellow flying again setting up a double file green, white, checkered with Hirschman cruising to victory over Kochenash and Mandato.
Modifieds (75 Laps). 1. Hirschman. 2. Kochenash. 3. Mandato. 4. Don Wagner. 5. Roger Coss. 6. Earl Paules. 7. James Pritchard. 8. Brian Sones. 9. Todd Baer. 10. Brian Defebo. 11. John Markovic. 12. Austin Beers. 13. Buddy Miller. 14. Chris Ridsdale. 15. Wayne Szerencsits. 16. Bobby Jones. 17. Randel Richard. 18. Paul Frantz.
Kyle Strohl holds off Lou Strohl in thrilling Mahoning Valley Speedway Modified action on June 8; Mike Sweeney takes Late Model laurels after leader Matt Wentz is crashed out
Kyle Strohl raced to a thrilling win over Lou Strohl for his second Modified win of the season Saturday night at Mahoning Valley Speedway. Both drivers displayed amazing car control while going double-wide over most of the later stages of the 35-lap contest. At the outset L. Strohl jumped out to a descent lead over Nick Baer but coming through swiftly was K. Strohl who by lap 10 was running second. There was still a sizable gap between first and second at that point but K. Strohl continued to chip away with each passing lap and when the 18th circuit went into the books the lead changed hands with an inside pass in turn four. On a restart with 10 laps remaining L. Strohl powered back to the lead but the ensuing tour K. Strohl regained the spot. From there to the finish it remained exceedingly close. “He (Lou Strohl) was on his set-up tonight and we were getting a little loose as he night went on and he really contested me for the victory but I wasn’t giving an inch,” said K. Strohl. “The track was really good tonight. That last restart helped him and I was nervous but luckily we got back on top. I want to say thanks to Lou for a running me clean and giving me a great race.” Interestingly for L. Strohl he almost thought about packing up and not racing after coming out to early practice and being completed unsatisfied with the results of that session. However, car owner Matt Higgins swayed him to stick around and with minimal adjustments when the night got underway, he won his heat and then drove to the near feature win. “We were honestly debating about loading up and going home that’s how bad the car was,” admitted L. Strohl. “But after we put on a different set of tires for the heat everything clicked and the car was just amazingly fast from that point. We tried and it wasn’t for the lack of effort on my part.” Not to be undone by the close action between the front pair, there was just as much of a tight battle for third between Austin Kochenash and Josh Scherer who raced to the wire for the spot. Brian DeFebo came from 13th to fifth at the end.
Modified Feature Finish (35-laps): 1. Kyle Strohl, 2. Lou Strohl, 3. Austin Kochenash, 4. Josh Scherer, 5. Brian DeFebo, 6. Bobby Jones, 7. Gene Bowers, 8. Earl Paules, 9. John Markovic, 10. Terry Markovic, 11. Nick Baer, 12. Anthony Sesely, 13. Ron Haring Jr., 14. Jacob Kerstetter, 15. Kevin Rex Jr., 16. BJ Wambold, 17. Wes Gilbert, 18. Lorin Arthofer II, 19. Austin Beers DNS: Heath Metzger
Dramatic Move Leads Emerling to RoC Victory at Spencer Speedway on May 31 - Eric finishes 2nd
It was a great night for the Beers Delange Team - Eric made the right changes to get up to second but was better on the short run and Patrick was better on the long run. Austin was running 15ht when an electrical issue shut off the motor and was unable to finish.
Patrick Emerling of Orchard Park, N.Y., made a dramatic move in traffic to get past Andy Jankowiak of Buffalo, N.Y., to take the lead and go on and win the Tribute to Don Pratt ‘62’ at Spencer Speedway presented by Wilbert’s U Pull-It in Williamson, N.Y., which began the tracks 65th consecutive season of competition. The win was the 15th of Emerling’s Race of Champions career and his third Series victory at Spencer. He’s just 1 win away from tying his crew chief, Jan Leaty, for 4th on the all-time win list.
“We had a good night tonight,” stated Emerling in victory lane. “Things went our way. We raced Andy (Jankowiak) really hard and I knew Eric (Beers) and Mike (Leaty) my teammate were coming behind me. It’s great to pay tribute to another great Modified competitor in Don Pratt and thank you to Curt Tooley for working extra hard to raise additional lap money.” Jankowiak ended up in the turn four wall on a restart, before Eric Beers of Northampton, Pa., gave Emerling a challenge to the finish. Beers finished second with Mike Leaty of Williamson, N.Y., recovering from an early race spin to finish third. Daren Scherer of Binghamton, N.Y., finished fourth and Daryl Lewis, Jr., of Ontario, N.Y., rounded out the top-five. Chuck Hossfeld of Ransomville, N.Y., posted the Speed51.com “Top of the Board” overall fast time in group time trials with a lap of 18.893 seconds with an average speed of 95.273 mph.
Leaty; Tommy Catalano of Ontario, N.Y., and Hossfeld won the qualifying races.
Chemung Speedrome’s season opener was everything a track would hope for – a nice turnout of race teams and fans, competitive racing, and beautiful weather to boot on May 18
The 75-lap RoC Modified season opener drew a field of 26 cars. Qualifying wins went to Mike Leaty, Tyler Rypkema, Zane Zeiner and Chuck Hossfeld. The top 3 in each heat drew for the top 12 starting spots during intermission and the field was set for the feature. Tyler Rypkema drew the pole and led the way, chased early on by Mike Leaty and Chuck Hossfeld. The race itself was slowed by 14 cautions, most of which were for spins in turns three and four. Andy Jankowiak, who broke into the top five about 20 laps into the race, gradually worked his way to the front of the pack and took the lead from Rypkema on lap 46. While just two drivers led, running among the top five proved to be risky behavior Saturday afternoon. Mike Leaty, Matt Hirschman and Zane Zeiner all learned that the hard way, and restarted at the back after being involved in cautions Andy Jankowiak took the lead from Rypkema on lap 46 and never looked back. He held on and picked up the win over Zack Curren, Bryan Sherwood, Zeiner and Hirschman. “I didn’t have the fastest car, but I avoided the trouble,” Jankowiak said following the win. “I didn’t pass anyone ‘til I got to third,” he said regarding the many wrecks he avoided. Staying out of trouble was key for Curren and Sherwood as well. Both mentioned how that contributed to their podium finishes.
Results:
RoC Modifieds (75 Laps): ANDY JANKOWIAK, Zack Curren, Bryan Sherwood, Zane Zeiner, Matt Hirschman, TJ Potrzebowski, Tyler Rypkema, Chris Finocchairo, Daren Scherer, George Skora III, Scott Wylie, Daryl Lewis, Jr., Mike Leaty, Donny Hartzell, Jake Rought, Austin Beers, Owen Bednasz, Eric Beers, Chuck Hossfeld, Kevin Miller, Kyle Ebersole, Brian DeFebo, Austin Kochenash, Chris Ridsdale, Karl Hehr, Ken Canestrari (DNS)
Heats: Leaty, Rypkema, Zeiner, Hossfeld
Kyle Strohl holds off Bobby Jones for Mahoning Modified top honors as Austin get 10th on May 11 at Mahoning Valley Speedway
Over the first few weeks of the 2019 season Kyle Strohl had a presence among the leaders but knew he was just a tad off in hammering the right set-up to where he wanted to be. Continuing to tweak his Paul’s Towing No. 44, the 19-year old from Palmerton finally nailed it right and the effort paid off in the form of his first Modified win of the year. “It felt pretty good out there tonight and the car was working perfectly. We had been struggling for the first few weeks but we hit on the right adjustments tonight and it finally paid off,” said Strohl. With only two cautions that slowed the action, both on lap 23, Strohl, who started sixth, had to race flat out to the front and he would battle a pair of venerable veterans in doing so, first taking on Terry Markovic and then contending down to the wire against point leader Bobby Jones. Markovic jumped to the opening lap lead and then set sail. Within four laps Strohl had advanced to third and was in close formation with Kevin Rex Jr. As Markovic showed notable speed at the helm, Rex and Strohl began a two-wide duel. Directly behind them was Jones. It would take Strohl 10 laps to annex second spot. He then continued his frontward charge and went immediately after Markovic. After a few looks from the outside, Strohl got a shot to go underneath the leader by the completion of lap 17. “Terry is a classy guy and we had to work hard to pass him but it was clean and after that away we went. The track was really good tonight and there was a lot of grip on both the outside and inside grooves.” said Strohl. By lap 20 Jones had motored up to second and was able to quickly pull alongside Strohl. On lap 23 a pair of cautions paused the action and on the second restart Jones fired past Strohl for the lead, however, the favored was returned the next time by. Try as he may from there to finish Jones looked for every opportunity to get by but Strohl had this one in hand and would record his 12th Modified win and 36th overall. Earlier this season he had scored a Sportsman Modified victory. “Bobby (Jones) was tough and that’s what you come to expect from him. He’s been the guy who’s been up front each week but tonight we hit on the right set-up and got the job done,” proclaimed Strohl. “It’s been real tight, clean hard racing and it seems everyone has figured it out all around with the Modifieds this year.” Rex stayed steady in garnering third while Earl Paules and Gene Bowers rounded out the top five.
Modified Feature Finish (35-laps): 1. Kyle Strohl, 2. Bobby Jones, 3. Kevin Rex Jr., 4. Earl Paules, 5. Gene Bowers, 6. Josh Scherer, 7. Brian DeFebo, 8. Lou Strohl, 9. Don Wagner, 10. Austin Beers, 11. Nick Baer, 12. John Markovic, 13. Terry Markovic, 14. Gary Wentz, 15. Jacob Kerstetter
Bobby Jones has week two figured out at Mahoning Valley…wins for third straight year in a thriller - Austin is 10th on April 20
(LEHIGHTON, PA. 4-20-19) It seems that week two at Mahoning Valley Speedway has become a favorite for Bobby Jones as for the third straight season the classy veteran picked up a win in the Modified feature. The 35-lap main turned out to be a great showdown as well between him and Earl Paules as they battled down to the wire. “For three years in a row we were terrible on opening night and I could never understand why. After this year’s opener we went back and did a lot of tweaking,” said Jones who won for the 23rd time at Mahoning in a Modified and recorded his 40th career overall victory. Jones, who started second to pole sitter Ron Haring Jr., would place his No. 1J into the lead with a quick diving move off turn two on lap six. Two laps later after a restart Paules advanced to second and from there on it was a cat and mouse game between the two journeymen. Paules tried numerous attempts to get by but as Jones would admit afterwards he was being very protective, especially on the inside lane where he choose to remain for most of the race.
“I slowed down to protect the bottom – I didn’t want to give that up because here once someone gets position on you on the bottom they got you,” said Jones. For Jones, it wasn’t just about keeping his lane but restarts were a factor as well. Paules, who clocked faster times throughout the event, showed several times that if he could just get the run needed after restarting that the outcome would certainly have been in his favor. “I told him (Paules) when he came alongside me on the restarts I had to be up on the wheel because he’s no slouch. He’s been at this game a long time and knows the tricks and the things to try and help yourself and I knew I had to be at my best in that situation against him,” bottom lined Jones. Over the final laps the excitement was rousing, most notably on the last circuit. With the front pair locked tight they came upon a slower car in turns 3 and 4. Jones had to react quickly as to not get trapped as Paules had a clear line from the topside to make a pass. As fate would have it for Jones he wisely stepped out enough to safeguard his spot but just barely as he held off Paules by a mere half car length. “I actually thought we were okay and we were just going to relax and stay there and I kind of relaxed too much and shouldn’t have,” explained Jones. “At the last minute I was going to go out on the lapped car because Earl was coming. As soon as I started to step out I seen him and didn’t go out as high as I should to give him room. There was a lot of respect and it was fun and good racing for both of us.” Josh Scherer and Anthony Sesely had great dogfight themselves and would finish third and fourth respectively. For Sesely, who is back racing at Mahoning for the first time in years, the placing elevated him into the point lead. Gene Bowers had a respectable run in rounding out the top five.
Modified Feature Finish (35-laps): 1. Bobby Jones, 2. Earl Paules, 3. Josh Scherer, 4. Anthony Sesely, 5. Gene Bowers, 6. Kyle Strohl, 7. Todd Baer, 8. Brian DeFebo, 9. Austin Beers, 10. Kevin Rex Jr., 11. John Markovic, 12. Terry Markovic, 13. Jacob Kerstetter, 14. Ron Haring Jr., 15. Heath Metzger DNS: Scott Adams
Austin was running a steady race until a mid race crash in front of him puts him out for the Night at Mahoning - APRIL 6
(LEHIGHTON 4-6-19) Matt Hirschman opened up Mahoning Valley Speedway’s 2019 Opening Night the same as he left for the season finale Octoberfast 2018 by parking his No. 60 in Victory Lane. The talented driver who travels and wins throughout the Eastern Seaboard, came to the track that sits closest to his Northampton home, making the 30-minute trek a profitable $3000 one after he secured victory in the 100-lap contest. Hirschman would come from 8th on the 19-car grid, taking the lead from Earl Paules while engaged in heavy lapped traffic. He then had number of close restart battles with eventual runner-up Austin Kochenash but by the later stages it was clear the race was his to lose. Hirschman crossed the finish line several car lengths ahead of Kochenash for his 17th win at Mahoning, 13 of them coming in 100+ lap events. Kyle Strohl showed good strength late in settling for third while Todd Baer ran consistently steady in securing fourth. Anthony Sesely in his return to Mahoning after a number of years away rounded out the top 5. “It was a great night. The last several Opening Nights here I watched from the grandstands and this was a lot more fun for sure although a lot harder work,” said Hirschman, who was fresh off a win a week early at Richmond International Raceway and third consecutive. “I enjoy the traveling thing but it is nice to race close to home. We had a lot of supporters who came out tonight from many different states and we’re having a great start to the season but there’s a long way to go. I look forward to be back here later this year for a few more shows.” Determined by luck of the draw and leading the field to the green was two-time and defending track champion Brian DeFebo with Kochenash flanked to his outside. DeFefo would jump out front early on while Kochenash, Paules and Hirschman began a tight battle right behind. By lap 10 Paules was getting a good run on the top side and began reeling in DeFebo. Three laps later the leader had a glitch coming off turn four which allowed Paules to seize the lead. One lap later Hirschman was second and for the next 22 laps it was close action with that pair. With no cautions during that stretch lapped traffic became a factor and for the strong running Paules it would ultimately be his downfall after what appeared to be a very promising night. As lap 36 was recorded the leaders came upon a group of cars running two abreast. Paules was holding a line to the outside but just before clearing there was contact made after the car of Nick Baer shot across his path due to a bump that he received. Paules wound up spinning while miraculously Hirschman stayed low enough to just barely avoid the situation. “My eyes where definitely looking out the right side and it was just one of those things were we caught some lapped cars that were racing ahead of us and they were telling them on the scanner to try and get signal file but it didn’t happen and unfortunately for Earl (Paules) he kind of washed up some and got clipped. I just missed him and I’m glad we did otherwise we would have been wrecked too,” explained Hirschman. When the field was reset Kochenash was now second and through a series of restarts he made some valiant attempts to sneak underneath Hirschman for the lead, successfully doing so on one of those tries only to be thwarted on the ensuing lap. “I knew on the restarts I felt pressure from behind and we got a little crossed up a couple times but once we got going the car was great but you can never let your guard down here at Mahoning,” said Hirschman. It would be perceptible over the final 25 tours that Hirschman had a lock as he was hitting his stride with each passing lap. For Kochenash he showed that 2019 has the makings of a rewarding season as he ran the entire race from no lower than third. “We just ran the tires off near the end and the clutch began slipping early on so that hurt quite a bit and it just didn’t play out today. Second (place) is not bad and well get some money and go on to the next one,” said Kochenash.
Modified Feature Finish (100-laps): 1.Matt Hirschman, 2. Austin Kochenash, 3. Kyle Strohl, 4. Todd Bear, 5. Anthony Sesely, 6. Gene Bowers, 7. Brian DeFebo, 8. Josh Scherer, 9. Don Wagner, 10. John Markovic, 11. Bobby Jones, 12. Joey Jarowicz, 13. Earl Paules, 14. Heath Metzger, 15. Nick Bear, 16. Austin Beers, 17. Scott Adams, 18. Jacob Kerstetter, 19. Ron Haring Jr.