Chemung Looks Ahead to Big Shows After Break This Weekend; Kamden Wheeler and Mother Nature Won Friday Night by Carol Houssock (2024-07-07)
Upcoming events: Saturday, July 20th ROC Sportsman, ROC Super Stocks, and FOAR Score Four Cylinders, 6 PM start Friday, July 26th Regular show plus three make-up features from July 5th, 7 PM start.
Chemung Speedrome, presented by Jim Bronson and Ferrario Auto Team of Sayre, is quiet this Friday (July 12th) but returns to action beginning Saturday, July 20th with back-to-back big shows. On the 20th the late Ed McGuire is remembered with a special ROC show including a pair of 51-lap features for the ROC Sportsman and ROC Super Stock divisions, plus the FOAR Score Four Cylinders all on tap. Admission for this one is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors 65+, $7 for kids ages 6-12, and free to kids ages 5 and under. Gates open at 4:00 PM, practice begins at 5 PM, and racing will start at 6 PM.
The following week, the Speedrome will run a total of eight features, including three of the four features not run this past Friday night. "On July 26th, we will run our regular five-division show, kicked off with the make-up features for the Buckley's Automotive Modifieds, Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks, and Geneís Automotive 4 Cylinders," stated Promoter Ray Hodge.
The Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stock makeup is not part of that show, for good reason. "The Jim Potrzebowski Memorial is a special show for the Hobby Stocks on the 26th, so we're looking at doing their makeup on a different night. That'll give all the Hobby Stock drivers a shot at the big special Memorial race. If we run the makeup race first, we take a chance at losing some for the special show. To be fair to all of them, we will look at possibly running that make up on Friday, August 2nd", he added. Racers should watch the track's Facebook page for more information. "This is subject to change, once we get some feedback from everyone involved. This Memorial race is happening, and it's going to be a great big event for a great Hobby Stock Class, and a great man and racing family."
When the show on July 5th was officially called, fans were advised to hang on to their wrist bands for a discount on July 26th. "With your wrist band from the 5th, you will receive $3.00 off your general admission on the 26th only," Hodge explained. That show, being sponsored by Zack's Bar & Grill and Pick's Pub, is now bigger than ever. Race time is 7 PM sharp on the 26th.
The only feature run July 5th on Marion Decker Agency Night was the 8-lap JRC Cleaning Services Bandolero event. Point leader Leevi Sharpsteen won the battle, the heat race, and the first half of the feature. But Kamden Wheeler led the second half and won the war. She had competed earlier in the week in Charlotte but returned on Friday night to capture her third feature win in a row.
For information, log on to the track's website: chemung-speedrome.com, "like" us on Facebook: Chemung Speedrome - Racing at the Drome, or call Ray Hodge, Promoter, at 607-483-3468.
Of Note:
As announced and posted, those who purchased 50/50 tickets on Friday should bring them on the 20th for a drawing. If no one present claims the 50/50, we will post the winning number on our Facebook page for people who bought tickets and could not come back. If not claimed either way, we will add the total to a regular show in August.
Veterans received free admission on July 5th as the track saluted and honored those who have served our country. Hobby Stock racer Sidnie Decker, along with Davis Morais, Chase Daudelin, and Brielle Arias from 698 Quarter Master Company, arrived via a Hummer and stood at attention at the base of the flagpole while Beth Bailey sang the national anthem.
Marion Decker Agency Night Results 7/05/24:
JRC Cleaning Bandoleros: KAMDEN WHEELER, Leevi Sharpsteen
Heat: Sharpsteen
Other Divisional Heat Winners:
Buckley's Automotive Modifieds: Tony Hanbury, TJ Potrzebowski
Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks: Tim Gullo, Geary Rinehimer, Jr.
Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks: Devin Gullo, Mike Nickels, Gil Sharpsteen
Gene's Automotive 4 Cylinders: Kyle Mortimer, Greg Moldt
Knowlden Holdin' Strong For Second-Straight At Chemung (2024-06-28)
Race Report by Steven Ovens - June 28, 2024
Zach Knowlden scored his second-straight Buckley's Automotive Modified victory at Chemung Speedrome on Friday night- but it was no runaway by any means. A packed house for kiddie rides night enjoyed incredible racing from start to Knowlden's run to the checkered flag.
Knowlden started fifth on the field while Charlie Sharpsteen and Nick Morich led the field to Troy McDonald's green flag for the 35-lap Feature. Morich led the opening lap but Lee Sharpsteen made quick work of claiming the top spot on the second lap. Sharpsteen set a comfortable pace and was plenty happy parking his No. 17 right along the bottom lane.
While an intense battle took place inside the top five it was Knowlden who came out with the runner up spot and set out for the leader Sharpsteen. Knowlden got as close as the back bumper several times but the yellow on Lap 20 was the reset the June 14 winner needed.
Knowlden got the advantage on the restart and would lead the rest of the way. An untimely yellow with two to go gave Sharpsteen and Jesse Kent one last opportunity at Knowlden. Kent and Sharpsteen would battle hard over a green-white-checkered finish while Knowlden cruised away for his second-straight victory.
Kent would secure the second spot on the final lap beating out Sharpsteen, TJ Potrzebowski and Kevin Youngs.
Tim Gullo also scored his second-straight win on this night as well, holding off a hard-charging Mike Nichols. It was Joe Lane and Frank Chapman III showing the Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks to the green for their 25-lap main event with Chapman grabbing the early race lead.
Gullo methodically worked his way from his fourth starting spot, bringing Nichols along who started behind him in sixth. The familiar No. 71 took the race lead officially on Lap 7 and wouldn't look back and it is likely a good thing that he didn't. Nichols threw everything the black and green No. 72 had at Gullo late in the race. The two traded paint, used the bumpers and had the crowd buzzing at the finish.
Some pre-Fourth of July fireworks ensued on the backstretch after the race with Gullo taking his spot in Ferrario Victory Lane. Following Victory Lane ceremonies, a protest was filed against the winning car and the finish remains unofficial at time of press. Stay tuned for official results.
Twenty-two Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks filled the infield pit area and set the bar high for great races. Two fans from the grandstands, John McAdam and Shane Palmer posted an additional $100 for the winner's share of the purse and they along with the rest of the fans were treated to a dandy for twenty laps.
Ben Perry and Mark Taylor showed the field to the green with Mark Taylor claiming the top spot on the opening lap. Cullen Sharpsteen capitalized on a starting spot of third to battle for the race lead with Taylor, Dave Decker, Kalysta DeMark, Gil Sharpsteen and Anthony Gullo. Gullo started deep in the pack from tenth after winning the last two Hobby Stock features.In a race that truly felt like anyone could have won from inside the top five to six cars, it was Gullo who sliced his way to the lead by Lap 13. However, Gullo didn't just take the lead and walk away. DeMark was on a mission with a grandstand of people waving their arms and emotionally trying to push the No. 5 past the No. 51. Veteran driver Dave Yehl carved his way from thirteenth on the starting grid to fourth before trouble found one of the leaders.
As the field took the white flag, DeMark gave Gullo a shot in the back bumper in the first turn that saw Gullo's car march high up the track. Unfortunately for DeMark, the bump and run turned into the bump and spin as her car lost control in the apex of the corner as she tried to complete the pass. This set up a green-white-checkered attempt with the race extended to twenty-one laps.
On the first attempt at running to the finish, Decker hit the wall hard coming off turn four, collecting Ethan Roberts with both cars sustaining damage and laying fluid on the home stretch. All of the altercations moved Yehl to the front row for the final green-white-checkered run.
Yehl would hold even terms with Gullo on the restart and would lead the field at the white flag. Gullo sent it into turns one and two on the final lap on the bottom lane and it stuck to perfection while Yehl was pedaling hard to keep the runner up position. Gullo would streak away to his third-straight Chemung Hobby Stock victory over Yehl, Gil Sharpsteen, Cullen Sharpsteen and "Bam Bam" Brandon Amiegh completing the Top 5.
In a race to the front, Nick Robinson and Greg Moldt duked it out for the win in the Gene's Automotive Four Cylinders. Robinson got his second win in as many starts this year in his No. 15. Moldt continued his streak of not finishing lower than second this season with two wins and now his third second place finish of 2024.
Jason Peck led the opening lap of their twenty-lapper but Robinson and Moldt wasted no time from their fourth and sixth place starting spots to make it three-wide for the lead. Robinson came out on top and would pull away once the leaders hit slower traffic to secure the victory. Joey Bevaqua saw the leaders battle but could only watch from third while Peck and Matt Jenkins put on the second-best race in the division to finish fourth and fifth.
Not to be outdone by the adults- the JRC Cleaning Bandoleros stole the hearts of the Speedrome crowd as the first feature of the night. The crowd cheered all eight laps of the event as Kamden Wheeler, Dallas Harbst and Leevi Sharpsteen battled each other hard and clean throughout their main event. Don't tell these kids you need twenty-four cars to put on a great race!
At one point in the race, each driver looked to be on their way to victory lane. Sharpsteen went for the lead several times but lost the handle. On the final lap Harbst looked to have Wheeler set up for a last lap, last corner pass but it was not to be. The Chemung crowd celebrated with Wheeler as she emerged from her No. 23 with her second-straight win in the division. Harbst and Sharpsteen completed the finishing order.
Coming up next Friday, July 5 at Chemung Speedrome the Marion Decker Agency presents Veterans Night with free general admission offered to any military veteran with proper identification. Without the sacrifices and battles fought by our military veterans, activities like racing in a free country wouldnít be possible! A complete card of Modifieds, Super Stocks, Hobby Stocks, Four Cylinders and Bandoleros is planned.
CHEMUNG SPEEDROME OFFICIAL RESULTS- Friday June 28th, 2024:
BUCKLEY'S AUTOMOTIVE MODIFIEDS (35 Laps): ZACH KNOWLDEN (2), Jesse Kent, Lee Sharpsteen, TJ Potrzebowski, Kevin Youngs, Charlie Sharpsteen, Nick Morich, Jody Buckley, JP Harbst, Chase Sinsabaugh, DNF: Tyler Harbst
Heat winners: Lee Sharpsteen, TJ Potrzebowski
BLAUVELT FUNERAL HOME SUPER STOCKS (25 Laps): Unofficial pending post-race tech/protest- TIM GULLO (2), Mike Nichols, Charlie Sharpsteen, Nick Robinson, Frank Chapman III, Frank Chapman Jr., Chad Lane, Joe Lane, Abe Romanik, DNF: Bradley Mister, Derrick Tarbox
Heat winners: Nick Robinson, Tim Gullo
MARION DECKER AGENCY HOBBY STOCKS (20 Laps): ANTHONY GULLO (3), Dave Yehl, Gil Sharpsteen, Cullen Sharpsteen, Brandon Ameigh, Luke Nickels, Josh Parker, Sidnie Decker, Chuck Nickels, Mike Bailey, George Nichols, Kalysta DeMark, Mark Taylor, Mike Kintner, DNF: Dave Decker, Ethan Roberts, Devin Gullo, Mike Nickels, M.R. Taylor, Ben Perry, Doug Dekay
Heat Winners: Kalysta DeMark, Anthony Gullo, Cullen Sharpsteen
GENE'S AUTOMOTIVE FOUR CYLINDERS (20 Laps): NICK ROBINSON (2), Greg Moldt, Joey Bevacqua, Jason Peck, Matt Jenkins, Ryan Purvis, Ricky Lane, Augustine Worden, Ron Manwaring, DNF: Herb Green, Kyle Mortimer
Heat Winners: Nick Robinson, Greg Moldt
JRC CLEANING BANDOLEROS (8 Laps): KAMDEN WHEELER (3), Dallas Harbst, Leevi Sharpsteen
Heat Winner: Kamden Wheeler
Zeiner, Robinson and Gullo Rule on Chemung's Day 2 Program by Carol Houssock (2024-06-15)
Day two of the Chemung Speedrome, Presented by Jim Bronson and Ferrario Auto Team of Sayre, PA, double-header was a huge success for all. The weather was perfect, and the pits were packed with cars racing in three divisions. Winners were Zane Zeiner (Race of Champions Modifieds), Nick Robinson (ROC FOAR Score 4 Cylinders) and Anthony Gullo (Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks).
Zane Zeiner used superb tire strategy and saved his car for the final 25 laps of the 75 laps ROC Modified feature. The race was plagued by yellow flags that eliminated perennial favorites such as Matt Hirschman and TJ Potrzebowski, and played a factor over the final laps. Jack Ely and Jake Lutz, who were solidly in the top five all evening, ran out of gas and failed to finish. When it was over, the defending ROC series champion, Zeiner, took the win over Austin Beers (last yearís event winner), Paulie Hartwig III, Roger Coss, and Andy Jankowiak. Zeiner dedicated the win to the Canfield family following the loss of their patriarch. Earlier in the day Hirschman, Zeiner and Ely won the heats, while Ely drew the pole.
In FOAR Score 4 Cylinder action, Corey Edelman and Gene Purvis won their heats while Trisha Connolly and Greg Moldt drew the front row starting positions. Connolly was challenged early on by Moldt, but Nick Robinson was on the move. Once up to second, he and Connolly put on a great show of driver respect as Robinson waited for the right moment and made his race-winning pass at his home track. Connolly's strong run earned her a runner-up finish, followed to the line by Moldt, Edelman, and Purvis.
In the track's regular Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks, Kalysta DeMark, Anthony Gullo, and Dave Yehl won the three heat races. Yehl started from the pole alongside Devin Gullo. It was Yehl, who has run a total of eight asphalt races in his lifetime of dirt racing, who led the way. He survived two restarts following the pair of cautions and kept young Gullo at bay. Following a lap 13 restart, Devin drifted just high enough for his older brother, Anthony, to get by. He was then able to pass Yehl to pick up the win, this one over Yehl, Mike Nickels, D. Gullo and DeMark. When interviewed, all three said how much they enjoy racing in a class where drivers show respect for each other and where the rules are enforced.
The Speedrome is quiet this Friday (June 21st) but returns to action on Friday, June 28th. It's a night the youngsters have the chance to ride in the race cars during intermission of the regular five-division program. Pits open at 4:30, grandstand at 5, practice at 6, and racing at 7 PM. Admission is $15 for adults, $13 for seniors ages 65+, $5 for kids ages 6-12, and free for kids ages 5 and under. For information, log on to the track's website: chemung-speedrome.com, "like" us on Facebook: Chemung Speedrome - Racing at the Drome, or call Ray Hodge, Promoter, at 607-483-3468.
Of Note:
"Storm", a gentleman from Elmira, won the 50/50 and took home $1,121.
Brett Bodine and his family were on hand, returning home from a trip to Canada. His interview solidly confirmed his appreciation for the track and its success. Bodine still works for NASCAR.
Chemung Speedrome í24 apparel (hoodies, t-shirts and hats, along with bumper stickers) are available exclusively at the 07 Collectibles trailer on site.
Results 6/15/24:
Race of Champions Modified Series (75 Laps): ZANE ZEINER, Austin Beers, Paulie Hartwig III, Roger Coss, Andy Jankowiak, Tony Hanbury, Bryan Sherwood, Mike Leaty, Brian DeFebo, Daren Scherer, Bryce Bailey, Don Wagner, Jack Ely, Jake Lutz, Tommy Rought, Zack Curren, Jayden Harman, Lou Strohl, Kyle Strohl, Chris Finocchario, TJ Potrzebowski, Matt Hirschman, Daryl Lewis, Jr., Austin Kochenash
Heats: Hirschman, Zeiner, Ely
ROC FOAR Score 4 Cylinders (20 Laps): NICK ROBINSON, Trisha Connolly, Greg Moldt, Corey Edelman, Gene Purvis, Cody Boehm, Matt Jenkins, Monica Robinson, Augie Worden, Ryan Purvis
Heats: Edelman, G. Purvis
Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks (20 Laps): ANTHONY GULLO, Dave Yehl, Mike Nickels, Devin Gullo, Kalysta DeMark, Gil Sharpsteen, Gene Purvis, Sydnie Decker, Cullen Sharpsteen, Chuck Nichols, Doug DeKay, Dave Decker, Ben Perry, Mike Bailey, Mike Kintner, George Nichols, Jr., Mark Taylor, Brandon Ameigh, Randy Mathews
Heats: DeMark, A. Gullo, Yehl
Zach is Back - Knowlden Wins Chemung Mods After 3-Year Absence by Carol Houssock (2024-06-14)
Day one of the Chemung Speedrome, Presented by Jim Bronson and Ferrario Auto Team of Sayre, PA, double-header went off without a hitch. On Thursday, it was a certain washout, but the forecast changed overnight and provided a perfect setting for the four-division show. Winners on Skyworks Equipment Rental night included Zach Knowlden (Buckley's Automotive Modifieds), Tim Gullo (Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks), Gene Purvis (Gene's Automotive 4 Cylinders), and Kamden Wheeler (JRC Cleaning Bandoleros).
The headline Buckley's Automotive Modified division got rolling with Lee Sharpsteen and point leader TJ Potrzebowski winning their heat races. Pole-sitter Nick Morich capitalized on that starting spot and led the opening few laps with Jesse Kent in pursuit. On the ninth lap, Kent made a pass for the lead, leaving Morich in a battle with Zach Knowlden for second. A caution on lap 10 shuffled the deck a bit, but Kent held on to his lead. The second, and final, caution came when Sharpsteen tagged Potrzebowski. He pitted but was done for the night. Back up front Kent was holding off Knowlden, with Morich still in third. Jody Buckley and Charlie Sharpsteen were also in the top five. At the halfway point, Knowlden made his race-winning pass and maintained about four car lengths ahead of Kent for the duration.
Knowlden's return to victory lane came after a three-year absence and in just his second race. "This win feels really good. The car wasn't perfect, but it still felt great, and it's good to be back" he said from victory lane. Kent held on for second, ahead of Morich and Buckley.
Veteran racer Tim Gulloís crew has had a busy start this season, but their hard work paid off Friday night with a win in the 25-lap Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stock feature. Heat winner Bradley Mister led the first two laps but Gulloís powerful #71 drove past him on lap three. Nick Robinson was running second, with heat winner Mike Nichols up to third at the halfway point. The only caution came out when Chad Lane spun in turn four. Ten laps remained, and Gullo never surrendered the lead. Nichols did find his way around Robinson for second, leaving him in a battle with Frank Chapman, Jr. for third. Gullo scored the win over Nichols, Robinson, Chapman, and Brian DeMark. Gullo thanked his crew for their hard work during the first three races this year, all of which has kept him solidly in the championship chase.
Twelve years have passed since Gene Purvis piloted his way around the track in a 4 Cylinder car. He proved to be as strong now as he was then, sweeping the night in Nick Robinson's stout #15. Matt Jenkins and Greg Moldt led early, before Purvis got around both and took over the top spot. As the laps went on in the caution-free 20-lap Geneís Automotive feature, his lead grew and he started to lap cars. Behind him, Jenkins and Moldt ran together, ahead of Jason Peck and heat winner Kyle Mortimer. Purvis got the win over Moldt, Jenkins, Mortimer and Peck. "Nick has given me lots of pointers. I tried to be smooth," he said after his extremely smooth win.
The 8-lap JRC Cleaning Bandolero feature was slowed just once when Leevi Sharpsteen spun in turn four. Throughout the event, the lead swapped several times between Kamden Wheeler and Dallas Harbst. Kamden, who had led the most laps, also led the one that mattered most. She went on to win her second race of the year, followed by Harbst and heat winner Sharpsteen.
The Speedrome is quiet on June 21st but roars back into action on Friday, June 28th. It's a night the youngsters wait for every year, featuring kids race car rides during intermission of the regular five-division program. Pits open at 4:30, grandstand at 5, practice at 6, and racing at 7 PM. Admission is $15 for adults, $13 for seniors ages 65+, $5 for kids ages 6-12, and free for kids ages 5 and under. For information, log on to the trackís website: chemung-speedrome.com, "like" us on Facebook: Chemung Speedrome - Racing at the Drome, or call Ray Hodge, Promoter, at 607-483-3468.
Of Note:
A member of the Harbst racing family from Waverly took home the 50/50 proceeds.
Chemung Speedrome í24 apparel (hoodies, t-shirts and hats, along with bumper stickers) are available exclusively at the 07 Collectibles trailer on site.
Skyworks Equipment Rental Night Results:
Buckleyís Automotive Modifieds (35 Laps): ZACH KNOWLDEN, Jesse Kent, Nick Morich, Jody Buckley, Lee Sharpsteen, Charlie Sharpsteen, Chase Sinsabaugh, Tom Shaffer, TJ Potrzebowski, JP Harbst
Heats: L. Sharpsteen, Potrzebowski
Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks (25 Laps): TIM GULLO, Mike Nichols, Nick Robinson, Frank Chapman, Jr., Brian DeMark, Frank Chapman III, Charlie Sharpsteen, Abe Romanik, Joe Lane, Bradley Mister, Chad Lane
Heats: Mister, Nichols
Gene's Automotive 4 Cylinders (15 Laps): GENE PURVIS, Greg Moldt, Matt Jenkins, Kyle Mortimer, Jason Peck, Ryan Purvis, Ricky Lane, Chris Deyoe, Ausie Worden, Ron Mainwaring, Herb Green, Joey Bevacqua
Heats: Mortimer, Purvis
JRC Cleaning Bandoleros (8 Laps): KAMDEN WHEELER, Dallas Harbst, Leevi Sharpsteen
Heat: Sharpsteen
TJ Potrzebowski Celebrates 2nd Chemung Mod Win, Nick Robinson Dominates Super Stocks (2024-06-11)
Another gamble. Another win. Track promoter Ray Hodge rolled the dice and went for it on a very iffy Friday night. While a slight shower did delay the action for a few minutes, the whole show is now in the history books. Winners included TJ Potrzebowski (Buckley's Automotive Modifieds), Nick Robinson (Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks), Anthony Gullo (Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks), Greg Moldt (Geneís Automotive 4 Cylinders), and Leevi Sharpsteen (JRC Cleaning Bandoleros).
TJ Potrzebowski celebrated his second 2024 win, as a sweep, in the Buckley's Automotive Modified division. It was not without some drama, however. The 35-lap race took three tries to get going, after spins by Tom Shaffer and JP Harbst. Nick Morich, who started outside the front row, led until his car shut off in turn two after just four laps. Potrzebowski and heat winner/defending champion Lee Sharpsteen had front row seats for the restart and put on a show for the fans. Contact in turn one, side-by-side, then contact again in turn four. Both went into the foam blocks then pitted under caution. Jesse Kent then took over the top spot, while Jody Buckley and Charlie Sharpsteen pressured Potrzebowski back to fourth. With five laps remaining TJ was up to second, closed the gap, and set up a drag race with Kent off turn four on the final lap. Potrzebowski prevailed over Kent, C. Sharpsteen, Buckley, and L. Sharpsteen.
Things got rough during qualifying in the Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks. On the first of eight laps Mike Nichols, who had won the first two features this season, and Tim Gullo got together. Gullo hit the wall and was towed to the pits with damage. Nichols went on to win that heat while defending track champ, Nick Robinson, won the other. It was the first half of a Speedrome sweep for Robinson. He, along with Jim Steffenhagen, Charlie Sharpsteen and Nichols ran together for the first few laps until Sharpsteen spun off the front bumper of Nichols. Both restarted at the rear, leaving Robinson pretty much alone in this one and he scored his first win of the year. Brian DeMark was back and his solid run resulted in a runner-up finish. Frank Chapman, Jr., Nichols, Joe Lane rounded out the top five.
In Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stock action Kalysta DeMark, Cullen Sharpsteen and Gene Purvis won the three heats. Chuck Nichols and Mark Taylor led the way early on, with side-by-side action in the first several rows that ended, briefly, when the first caution came out. Back to green meant back to two-wide and sometimes three-wide racing. Devin Gullo, Anthony Gullo, Gil Sharpsteen and Dave Yehl were running among the top six. DeMark was charging through the field but a lap 11 multi-car pileup in turn four took her, Yehl, Joe Lane and Mike Nichols. On the restart, D. Gullo and Gil Sharpsteen led the way until A. Gullo made it a three-wide battle for the lead. He did take over the top spot while his brother was holding off Sharpsteen. With six laps remaining, Sharpsteen got into young Gullo and turned him around. Both restarted at the rear. Over those remaining laps A. Gullo pulled away and left behind a great battle for second. He got the win over Mark Taylor, Chuck Nichols, Bruce Kintner and Dave Decker.
Greg Moldt may have won the Gene's Automotive war/feature, but heat winner Herb Green won the battle. Longtime Speedrome fans remember the late Herbie Green tearing up the track in his famed #88. In just his second time ever in a race car, he won the heat race. The crowd loved it. Last year's champ, Joey Bevacqua, started last in the feature and drove to second, getting alongside Moldt a couple times. But Moldt is tough to pass when caught, and no one did. He won the 20-lap race, his scored win in three weeks. Bevacqua was second, followed by Matt Jenkins, Green, and Jason Peck, Leevi Sharpsteen also swept the JRC Cleaning Bandolero action. He won the 5-lap heat, then started their 10-lap feature from pole position. The caution-free event denied Dallas Harbst and Kamden Wheeler the opportunity to go for a win in this one. Harbst tried in the closing laps but the gap was too large with too little time remaining. However, both Sharpsteen and Wheeler did park in victory lane - his for the completed feature, and hers for the last feature when she had been transported to the hospital following a race-ending wreck.
The Speedrome is now in "go" mode for a big weekend double-header, and the weather looks perfect. On Friday Skyworks Equipment Rental presents the Buckley's Automotive Modifieds, Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks, Geneís Automotive 4 Cylinders, and JRC Cleaning Bandoleros, all going to season points. Pits open at 4:30, grandstand at 5, practice starts at 6 and racing begins at 7 PM. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $3 for kids ages 6 to 12, and free for kids ages 5 and under.
But that's not all! On Saturday, the roar of the ROC Modifieds returns to Chemung for the 75-lap race rained out earlier this year. Joining them will be the ROC FOAR Score 4 Cylinders and the track's Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks running for track points. Pits open at 2 PM on Saturday, grandstand at 4, and racing at 6 PM. Admission is $25 for adults, $23 for seniors, $15 for kids ages 6-12, and free for kids ages 5 and under. Free camping is available starting Thursday night.
For information, log on to the track's website: chemung-speedrome.com, "like" us on Facebook: Chemung Speedrome - Racing at the Drome, or call Ray Hodge, Promoter, at 607-483-3468.
Of Note:
A fan from Elmira took home the 50/50 proceeds. Chemung Speedrome í24 apparel (hoodies, t-shirts and hats, along with bumper stickers) are available exclusively at the 07 Collectibles trailer on site.
Thanks to Morgan Colegrove, who filled in for announcer Carol Houssock and provided the race details included in this recap.
Chemung Speedrome is proudly sponsored by Jim Bronson and Ferrario Auto Team of Sayre, PA.
Results:
Buckley's Automotive Modifieds (35 Laps): TJ POTRZEBOWSKI, Jesse Kent, Charlie Sharpsteen, Jody Buckley, Lee Sharpsteen, Chase Sinsabaugh, Tom Shaffer, Tyler Harbst, JP Harbst, Dakota Anderson, Nick Morich
Heats: Potrzebowski, L. Sharpsteen
Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks (25 Laps): NICK ROBINSON, Brian DeMark, Frank Chapman, Jr., Mike Nichols, Joe Lane, Tim Gullo, Frank Chapman III, Chad Lane, Charlie Sharpsteen, Abe Romanik, DJ Shaw, Bradley Mister, Jim Steffenhagen
Heats: Robinson, Nichols
Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks (20 Laps): ANTHONY GULLO, Mark Taylor, Chuck Nichols, Bruce Kintner, Dave Decker, Josh Parker, Doug DeKay, Mike Bailey, Kalysta DeMark, George Nichols, Jr., Gil Sharpsteen, Devin Gullo, Ethan Roberts, Benn Perry, Mike Kintner, Cullen Sharpsteen, Dave Yehl, Mike Nickels, Gene Purvis, Randy Mathews
Heats: DeMark, C. Sharpsteen, Purvis
Gene's Automotive 4 Cylinders (15 Laps): GREG MOLDT, Joey Bevacqua, Matt Jenkins, Herb Green, Jason Peck, Ricky Lane, Augie Worden, Dustin Pruyne, Ryan Purvis
Heat: Green
JRC Cleaning Bandoleros (10 Laps): LEEVI SHARPSTEEN, Dallas Harbst, Kamden Wheeler
Heat: Sharpsteen
Lee Sharpsteen Wins Modified Feature at Chemung on Main Sponsor's Race Night by Carol Houssock (2024-05-24)
Fan Appreciation night at Chemung Speedrome Presented by Jim Bronson and Ferrario Auto Team of Sayre included a 5-division race card and an extended intermission. Cars lined up four-deep for fans to see the cars and stars lined up 4-deep on the front stretch. With a great crowd of amazing fans on hand, they saw defending track champion, Lee Sharpsteen, take the win in the headline Buckley's Automotive Modified division. Other winners on Sam's Bar & Grill night included Mike Nichols (Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks), Anthony Gullo (Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks), Greg Moldt (Geneís Automotive 4 Cylinders), and Kamden Wheeler (JRC Cleaning Bandoleros).
The ability to put one rough week behind you and focus on the next challenge is key to racing success. Such was the case in the Buckley's Automotive Modified division and defending track champ Lee Sharpsteen. The car that let him down on opening night was perfect and earned him a sweep of the action. He and last week's winner, TJ Potrzebowski, won the heats in a 35-lap feature with Zach Knowlden and JP Harbst starting from the front row. Knowlden, who last raced at Chemung in 2021, took off and led the way ahead of Jesse Kent. In the first 10 laps they restarted beside each other after a trio of cautions. Each time Knowlden held off Kent, but Sharpsteen was lurking and closing in on the leader. A lap prior to halfway, Knowlden gave Sharpsteen the room he needed in turn one to overtake him. Potrzebowski was also on the move and cleared both Kent and Knowlden. Now second, he started to reel in Sharpsteen, but he ran out of time. Lee got the win in this one over Potrzebowski, Knowlden, Kent, and Nick Morich. "The car ran super tonight and to win in front of your sponsor on their race night is hard to do. I canít thank everyone enough," he said after the win. He also credited Knowlden for racing him clean.
Caution-free sums up the 25-lap Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stock feature, although a few drivers were hoping for one. Tim Gullo and Nick Robinson won their heats and lined up beside each other in row three. Row one consisted of Frank Chapman, Jr. and his son, Frank III. The elder Chapman led the first couple laps before Frank III got around him. Right behind them was opening night winner, Mike Nichols, who passed the pair and led at lap eight. Gullo and Robinson were also moving toward the front, and they were running second and third by lap 10. At the halfway point about six car lengths separated Nichols from Gullo, and Gullo from Robinson. The gap widened a bit, and Nichols picked up his second win in as many weeks. Gullo, Robinson, Chapman, Jr., and Jason Duke, Sr. all finished in the top five. When asked about making a habit of parking in victory lane, Nichols said "I love these kind of habits, and will try to make it work each week." He then said he was off a bit tonight. The Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks ran three heats, won by Brandon Ameigh, Mike Nickels and Kalysta DeMark. An invert number of 12 put Devin Gullo on the pole and Dave Decker outside the front row. While Decker led the opening lap, Anthony Gullo took over on the second lap. The brothers Gullo started beside each other three times in the first seven laps when cautions came out for spins. By lap 10, Gene Purvis had made his way to second, ahead of Gil Sharpsteen and Decker. Three more cautions came out in the second half of the race and Sharpsteen took second from Purvis. He tried everything and, even though he stayed with Gullo, couldn't get around him. Gullo, who won eight features last year, went on to win his first of 2024. Sharpsteen had to settle for second, ahead of Purvis, Mike Nickels and Dave Yehl. "This was great, with lots of cautions you really have to race. It's never easy but everyone raced me clean," he told the crowd.
In the Gene's Automotive 4 Cylinder division it was sweep night for Greg Moldt. He and Kyle Mortimer won the two heats, but Moldt took the caution-free 15-lap feature. He wasted no time pulling away from the field, leaving behind a battle between Matt Jenkins and Mortimer. While Jenkins faded, Moldt started to lap slower cars. When it was over, Moldt, who led all competitors with eight feature wins last year, got his first of í24. Mortimer was second, followed to the line by teammates Jason Peck and Ricky Lane. Newcomer Augie Worden rounded out the top five. "The car handles really well, which is good since I'm down 60 HP from the others," Moldt said from victory lane.
Imagine winning your career-first feature and not being there, in victory lane, to celebrate. Such was the case for 12-year-old Kamden Wheeler, who won the 10-lap JRC Cleaning Bandolero race. She took the lead on the second lap, but caution came out when Dallas Harbst and Max Morich drove each other into the foam blocks on lap seven. The drivers were ok. but Morich was done. The race restarted and Kamden appeared to have a safe advantage over Sharpsteen. Coming off turn three on the last lap he hit the rear of her car, which rolled and came to rest near his in turn four. The race was declared over at lap nine, and Kamden got the win. She went by ambulance to the hospital as a precaution and was released after being checked out. Division sponsor, JRC Cleaning, is owned by Kamden's father.
There won't be any racing this weekend but action resumes on Friday, June 7th with a regular five-division regular program of Modifieds, Super Stocks, Hobby Stocks, 4 Cylinders and Bandoleros. Pits open at 4:30, grandstand at 5, practice starts at 6 and the first green flag flies at 7. Grandstand admission is $15 for adults, $13 for seniors, $5 for kids ages 5 to 12, and free for kids ages 5 and under. For information, log on to the track's website: chemung-speedrome.com, "like" us on Facebook: Chemung Speedrome - Racing at the Drome, or call Ray Hodge, Promoter, at 607-483-3468.
Of Note:
The entire program was live on Racing America, a subscription service. Chemung's action was one of 12 events covered live by the service over the weekend.
Chuck Aumick from Pine City won $520 in the 50/50 drawing. Chuck's Pine City Tool is a longtime sponsor of several cars competing at the track. Staff and special guests of Sam's Bar & Grill partied all evening in a suite.
Chemung Speedrome í24 apparel (hoodies, t-shirts and hats, along with bumper stickers) are available exclusively at the 07 Collectibles trailer on site.
Sam's Bar & Grill Night Results:
Buckley's Automotive Modifieds (35 Laps): LEE SHARPSTEEN, TJ Potrzebowski, Zach Knowlden, Jesse Kent, Nick Morich, Chase Sinsabaugh, Justin Teresak, Charlie Sharpsteen, Tyler Harbst, JP Harbst
Heats: L. Sharpsteen, Potrzebowski
Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks (25 Laps): MIKE NICHOLS, Tim Gullo, Nick Robinson, Frank Chapman III, Jason Duke, Sr., Frank Chapman, Jr., Chad Lane, Joe Lane, Bradley Mister, Charlie Sharpsteen, Abe Romanik
Heats: Gullo, Robinson
Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks (20 Laps): ANTHONY GULLO, Gil Sharpsteen, Gene Purvis, Mike Nickels, Dave Yehl, Cullen Sharpsteen, Devin Gullo, Doug DeKay, Dave Decker, Chuck Nichols, Brandon Ameigh, Kalysta DeMark, Ben Perry, Luke Nickels, Mike Bailey, George Nichols, Jr., Ethan Roberts, Mike Kintner, Mark Taylor, Randy Mathews
Heats: Ameigh, M. Nickels, DeMark
Gene's Automotive 4 Cylinders (15 Laps): GREG MOLDT, Kyle Mortimer, Jason Peck, Ricky Lane, Augustine Worden, Ryan Purvis, Matt Jenkins
Heats: Mortimer, Moldt
JRC Cleaning Bandoleros (10 Laps): KAMDEN WHEELER, Leevi Sharpsteen, Dallas Harbst, Max Morich
Heat: Sharpsteen
TJ Potrzebowski Goes 3-for-3, in 3, at Chemung Opener by Carol Houssock (2024-05-20)
Chemung Speedrome Presented by Jim Bronson and Ferrario Auto Team of Sayre was finally able to open the gates for the season opener. This, after two rainouts, made the third try the charm. And, for the third year in a row, it was TJ Potrzebowski who parked his bright #72 in victory lane. It was still a bit of a gamble to go for it, with evening showers possible. But the gamble was on, and the track won. Other winners on Firehouse Subs night included Mike Nichols (Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks), Brandon Ameigh (Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks), Nick Robinson (Gene's Automotive 4 Cylinders), and Leevi Sharpsteen (JRC Cleaning Bandoleros).
Luck of the draw put Evan Rygielski and TJ Potrzebowski on the front row for their 35-lap main event and the outside provided momentum for TJ to take over the top spot. He never surrendered from that point and stayed in the lead after five restarts. The first three cautions came in the first three laps, forcing Tony Hanbury, Charlie Sharpsteen and Chase Sinsabaugh to restart at the rear. Newcomer Dakota Anderson was responsible for the last two cautions, but in none of those were cars unable to return and compete. Early on Rygielski was right there with Potrzebowski and Lee Sharpsteen. For Lee, the defending track champion, the night went sour during the last caution. Fluid leaking from his car forced a pit stop. The crew tried to correct the problem, but he pulled off a lap after the race restarted. The final 25 laps went caution-free, with great moves by heat winners Nick Morich and Hanbury had them up to second and third and in a battle of their own. For Potrzebowski, he built up a nice lead until Hanbury got around Morich and started to close the gap. He got it down to a car length, but Potrzebowski stayed out front and took the win. "The car got a little loose, especially in turn four, but Tony ran me clean. Racing clean like that is a lot of fun," TJ said after his third opening night win in as many years. Hanbury, Morich, Rygielski and C. Sharpsteen made up the top five. Great repair work took former track champion Mike Nichols from a broken transmission to a car he described as a rocket ship. The Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stock feature was tough one to watch, as the caution-plagued event slowed the action. The upside, however, was watching drivers restart and work their way back into contention. The 25-lap feature began with heat winners Jason Duke, Sr. and Tim Gullo making up row one. Gullo got the better of Duke, who got tapped by Nick Robinson, with both forced to the rear after that first caution. On the restart Frank Chapman, Jr. was responsible for a melee as they came off turn two, involving leader Gullo, Chapman III, Duke, and Abe Romanik. That gave the top spot to Cameron Nichols, with his father, Mike, alongside for the restart. From lap six on, this one was all Mike Nichols while Robinson and Gullo worked back toward the front. Gullo brought out the fourth caution with a flat, sending him to the rear once again. It was still far from over, with the final caution flag thrown when Sharpsteen got into C. Nichols on the restart. Gullo had already passed Robinson for second. Over the remaining laps Mike Nichols held on and got the win over Gullo, Robinson, Chapman, Jr., and Chapman III.
The track's newest and fastest growing division, the Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks, lived up to the hype in every way. Anthony Gullo, Gene Purvis and Kalysta DeMark won the three heats, while Brandon Ameigh and Dave Yehl lucked out and started from row one. The race took three tries to get going, after a solo and then a multi-car tangle, but once it did get going, they ran all 20 laps under green. Ameigh led the way, but he was challenged throughout by the father/son duo of Cullen and Gil Sharpsteen. Cullen did some great driving, staying with the leader while holding off his father. DeMark worked the traffic beautifully and moved up from her P10 starting spot, while Gullo took over fifth. At the finish, Brandon "Bam Bam" had his career-first win in the division after some wise strategy. "I deliberately didn't go out for practice tonight," he said while clutching the checkered flag. Cullen finished ahead of Gil, with Kalysta DeMark in fourth and Gullo in fifth.
Gene's Automotive came on board to sponsor the track's 4 Cylinder division. Defending track champion Joey Bevacqua earned the first win, in his heat, under that sponsorship with Greg Moldt winning heat two. Nick Robinson started from pole position, a spot he lost to Moldt for three laps near the end of the 20-lap feature. He and Moldt, who put on a great show in their heat, ran one-two the entire distance in this one, while Jason Peck was third until he lost the spot to the charging duo of Kyle Mortimer and Bevacqua. At the finish, Robinson had the win over Moldt, Mortimer, Bevacqua, and Peck. Since he's running the Super Stocks full-time, Robinson is limited to five races and will earn no points. But it's a division he loves. "It's a blast racing with Greg Moldt. I missed a gear and gave up the lead but got it back," he said. Robison also dedicated the race to Jeff Noe, who just rang the bell to complete treatments for cancer. The track's beginner Bandolero often brings back the next generation in racing families. Under the new sponsorship of JRC Cleaning, "next gens" included Max Morich and Leevi "Hammer" Sharpsteen. They, plus newcomer Kamden Wheeler ran heat, won by Sharpsteen. Veteran driver Dallas Harbst joined them for their 10-lap feature, arriving in his baseball uniform after a game. While race procedures will be carefully reviewed at this week's driver's meeting, fans did get to watch an event that is fun for kids. Sharpsteen took off and gapped Wheeler at the green. When he spun twice in turn four, she had the top spot for both restarts. Her time in front was short, as Sharpsteen again took over and scored the win over Harbst, Wheeler, and Morich.
This Friday, Sam's Bar & Grill presents the five-division regular program of Modifieds, Super Stocks, Hobby Stocks, 4 Cylinders and Bandoleros. Pits open at 4:30, grandstand at 5, practice starts at 6 and the first green flag flies at 7. Grandstand admission is $15 for adults, $13 for seniors, $5 for kids ages 5 to 12, and free for kids ages 5 and under. For information, log on to the trackís website: chemung-speedrome.com, "like" us on Facebook: Chemung Speedrome - Racing at the Drome, or call Ray Hodge, Promoter, at 607-483-3468.
Of Note:
Firehouse Subs, the race night sponsor, brought with them their SmokeEater Donuts food truck.
The track's 2024 apparel (hoodies, t-shirts and hats, along with bumper stickers) are available exclusively at the 07 Collectibles trailer on site.
A fan from Horseheads pocketed $466 from the 50/50.
Firehouse Subs Night Results:
Buckley's Automotive Modifieds (35 Laps): TJ POTRZEBOWSKI, Tony Hanbury, Nick Morich, Evan Rygielski, Charlie Sharpsteen, Jody Buckley, Justin Teresak, Chase Sinsabaugh, Dakota Anderson, Lee Sharpsteen, Jesse Kent, Tyler Harbst, Tom Shaffer
Heats: Morich, Hanbury
Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks (25 Laps):
MIKE NICHOLS, Tim Gullo, Nick Robinson, Frank Chapman, Jr., Frank Chapman III, Cameron Nichols, Charlie Sharpsteen, Abe Romanik, Joe Lane, Chad Lane, Jason Duke, Sr., Bradley Mister
Heats: Duke, Gullo
Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks (20 Laps):
BRANDON AMEIGH, Cullen Sharpsteen, Gil Sharpsteen, Kalysta DeMark, Anthony Gullo, Gene Purvis, Doug DeKay, Sidnie Decker, Mark Taylor, Dave Decker, Luke Nickels, Larry Miller, Chuck Nickels, Mike Bailey, Devin Gullo, Mike Kitner, Ben Perry, Ethan Roberts, George Nichols, Dave Yehl, Randy Mathews
Heats: A. Gullo, Purvis, DeMark
Gene's Automotive 4 Cylinders (20 Laps):
NICK ROBINSON, Greg Moldt, Kyle Mortimer, Joey Bevacqua, Jason Peck, Matt Jenkins, Ricky Lane, Augustine Warren, Herb Green, Ryan Purvis, Dustin Pruyne (DNS)
Heats: Bevacqua, Moldt
JRC Cleaning Bandoleros (10 Laps):
LEEVI SHARPSTEEN, Dallas Harbst, Kamden Wheeler, Max Morich
Heat: Sharpsteen
Rain Stops Chemung Opener Again; ROC Mods on Tap This Saturday By Carol Houssock (2024-05-06)
There's no other way to say it. It sucks to lose your much-anticipated opener. All week the weekend forecast was iffy, with rain showers likely to put a real damper on things. But on Friday things changed, and it appeared all systems were "go" for a Saturday afternoon opener. By early Saturday morning, the one system that mattered most, the weather system, had changed again. Track promoter, Ray Hodge, had no choice but to cancel.
This Saturday the track welcomes the Race of Champions Modified Series for a 75-lap event. A year ago, fans watched Austin Beers dominate the event in the family-owned #9. His father, Eric, had won countless races in the familiar blue car. Austin held off Zane Zeiner in the first half of what became an Austin Beers ROC sweep at the Speedrome in '23.
The Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks, Gene's Automotive 4 Cylinders and JRC Cleaning Bandoleros will also hit the track on May 11th for their first races of the year. Each of those divisions has new competitors lined up to debut their cars and take on veteran racers. While three regular divisions will run that day, fans will have to wait until the first Friday night show (May 17th) to cheer on the Buckley's Automotive Modifieds and Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks.
Everyone is reminded that the upcoming big show on Saturday, May 11th, has a revised start time. Pits will now open at 3 PM, grandstand and practice at 5, and racing begins at 6 PM. Admission is $25 for adults, $22 for seniors ages 65+, $10 for kids ages 6-12, and free for kids ages 5 and under.
For information, log on to the track's website: chemung-speedrome.com, "like" us on Facebook: Chemung Speedrome - Racing at the Drome, or call Ray Hodge, Promoter, at 607-483-3468.
Season Opener Coming up at Chemung By Carol Houssock (2024-04-11)
The track management team has been busy preparing for the 2024 season since the last checkered flag flew back in September. Ray and Ellen Hodge, promoters of the 3/8-mile paved oval, have made some exciting changes for the upcoming season. "First and foremost, we've had a solid relationship with Jim Bronson and his nearby business. He's stepped up in a big way, so we're now Chemung Speedrome Presented by Jim Bronson and Ferrario Auto Team of Sayre, PA," Ray stated.
Hodge is pleased with the level of support from area businesses. Three businesses are returning to sponsor divisions (Buckley's Automotive Modifieds, Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stocks, and Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stocks). This year they'll be joined by a new sponsor for the Bandolero division, JRC Cleaning from Athens, PA. Many other businesses provide support in the form of billboard signage and/or sponsorship of race nights or products throughout the year.
Race teams can get ready for the season with single car open practice on Friday, April 19th from 1 PM until dark, or during a regular test and tune for all divisions on Saturday, April 20th from 3 PM until 7 PM. Pit passes for each day are $10, with a $25 per car fee each day. Grandstand viewing is free to the public during those practice times.
That all sets the stage for the season opener on Saturday, May 4th. The opener, sponsored by Buckley's Automotive, includes Modifieds, Super Stocks, Hobby Stocks, 4 Cylinders and Bandoleros. The grandstand opens at 1 PM, with racing beginning at 2 PM. Admission is $15 for adults, $13 for seniors ages 65 and older, $5 for kids ages 6 to 12, and free for kids ages 5 and under. A year ago, TJ Potrzebowski won his second consecutive season opener over eventual 2-time track champion, Lee Sharpsteen in the Buckley's Automotive Modifieds.
The following weekend Chemung will also run on Saturday afternoon, with the first of four appearances by various divisions operating under the Race of Champions banner. This one, the first of two for the Modifieds, has the same 2 PM start and is $25 for adults, $22 for seniors 65+, $10 for ages 6-12 and free for 5 and under. Austin Beers won the 75-lap event last year, in a race that became the first half of his ROC sweep at Chemung. Zane Zeiner finished second to Beers a year ago in this one.
Racing switches back to Chemung's regular Friday night schedule on May 17th, with a regular show presented by returning sponsor Firehouse Subs. Another longtime supporter, Sam's Bar & Grill presents Fan Appreciation Night with a Meet & Greet and regular show on Friday, May 24th. Regular Friday shows will begin at 7 PM.
"We're looking forward to kicking off the season, and this year we reverted back to building in an off week each month for the racers," Hodge explained. Those off nights are May 31st, June 21st, July 12th, and August 16th. "But the weeks we're racing will be great for the fans and our race night sponsors. We're also looking forward to 2 ROC Modified shows and 2 for their Sportsman division this year."
Once again, the track expects newcomers in each class. The Bandolero division continues to serve as a launching point for many drivers. Over the winter the Sinsabaugh and Gullo families were busy preparing a Modified for former champ Chase, and a Hobby Stock for last year's champ Devin. Several others are moving on up, something the fans appreciate seeing as well.
Anyone seeking more information on operations or track sponsorship can contact Ray Hodge (607-483-3468). or Jerry Sinsabaugh (607-738-8829. Current information is always on the track's official Facebook page (Chemung Speedrome - Racing at the Drome) or website (www.chemung-speedrome.com).
2024 Schedule (2024-03-20)
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...download>>Chemung Banquet Honors Racing Excellence in 2023 and Before by Carol Houssock (2024-01-05)
(Chemung, NY) Chemung Speedrome's 2023 banquet completed business for the year. A packed house gathered at the Best Western Grand Victorian ballroom in Sayre, PA for the event. Promoter Ray Hodge dedicated the banquet to the late Peyton Shaw, last year's 4 Cylinder Rookie of the Year and Waverly High School senior killed in a tragic car accident just before Christmas.
Lee Sharpsteen backed up last year's title by earning another in the Buckley's Automotive Modified division. In 11 races, he picked up 4 wins and in 3 other races he was among the top five. In addition to running for the title, Lee's family also ran up and down the Interstates so his son, Leevi, could compete at Millbridge Speedway in NC. The family also experienced tremendous sorrow with the death of Peyton Shaw, whose relationship with their children was more like family than many have with blood relatives. Sharpsteen plans to defend his title, and to bring Leevi on board in a Bandolero this year. He'll also hope to capture the title at New Smyrna Speedway in Florida, where he'll race in their Speedweeks for the 602 Modifieds beginning this weekend.
Nick Robinson started 2023 with a DQ, essentially missing the entire first race in the Blauvelt Funeral Home Super Stock division. He came back and won the next two races and two others later in the year. From week two on, in the 11 other events, he never finished lower than third in a division packed with hard-hitters and talent. Robinson also won the ROC Foar Score championship in '23. He is weighing options for the upcoming season.
Josh Parker is now three-for-three. Parker won his third championship in the Marion Decker Agency Hobby Stock division. In its three years of existence at Chemung, it's the fastest-growing division and he's the only champion ever crowned. In the 13 races run, Parker never finished outside the top five, and he picked up two feature wins along the way. He is also unsure of his plans for 2024.
When the season began, Joey Bevacqua had some big events coming up, such as leaving to attend UNOH in August. They sold the Super Stock and he focused on his 4 Cylinder he would run when he could. He ran the full season and was one of just two drivers to park in victory lane. He did that four times and put together a solid season to earn his first championship. Now part of an ARCA team through UNOH, he said he will race when he can this season.
In the Serendipity Ice Cream Bandolero division, Devin Gullo claimed the overall championship running in the Bandit age group. Joey Allowatt, last year's overall winner, won the Outlaw title. Both young men dominated the action in '23 and both visited victory lane as either the overall or division winner in 8 of the 9 features. Gullo will join his older brother, Anthony, in the Hobby Stock division this season.
Special awards: Rookie of the Year, Tyler Harbst (Modified); Best Appearing Car, Brandon Ameigh (Hobby Stock); Mechanic of the Year, George Kent (Modified); and Sportsmanship, Modified car owner Frank Morich.
Track promoter, Ray Hodge, thanked the track's sponsors and employees, and spoke of some new sponsors coming on board for this year. Both Ray and Operations Manager Jerry Sinsabaugh provided some comic relief, with random pictures and unique captions and some light-hearted digs. Hodge mentioned that racers will have one week off in May, June, July and August again this year, something that gives everyone a break. He added that the ROC will be at the track four times, two with the Modified Tour and two with the Sportsman Series. The schedule has been out but will soon include greater detail. Begun last year, Hodge then presented two awards to loyal fans. They went to Jim Monaco and to Mark and Lilly Taylor.
Emcee and track announcer Carol Houssock mentioned that George Kent from Horseheads, NY was inducted into the Eastern Motorsport Press Association's Hall of Fame. Houssock, an EMPA Board member, presented Kent with his award since he had been unable to attend the organization's banquet last month. She highlighted his Hall of Fame-worthy career. Kent was thankful to be recognized for his decades in the sport.
Houssock highlighted many of the special moments everyone experienced at the Speedrome in 2023, both light-hearted and serious. She also thanked all the race teams, Ray and Ellen Hodge, sponsors, and everyone at the track for their hard work and investment in racing at the Speedrome.
Race teams and fans are encouraged to watch for the detailed 2024 schedule and other news on the track's website†www.chemung-speedrome.com and on the official Facebook page - Chemung Speedrome - Racing at the Drome. Anyone having questions regarding the schedule, rules, track rental, or track operations can call Ray Hodge at 607-483-3468.
Photos:
Track champions (L to R): Joey Allowatt (Bandolero Outlaw); Josh Parker (Hobby Stock); Lee Sharpsteen (Modified); Joey Bevacqua (4 Cylinder); Nick Robinson (Super Stock). Missing from photo Devin Gullo (Bandolero Bandit/Overall Champion).
Track announcer and Board member of the Eastern Motorsport Press Association presented George Kent his EMPA Hall of Fame award.
