Archive for the 'VMRS' Category

Stafford Motor Speedway Next Stop for VMRS Friday

Published at June 18, 2013 in Stafford and VMRS. Closed

STAFFORD SPRINGS, CT — The Valenti Modified Racing Series 10th Anniversary season continues this Friday night with a stop at the famed Stafford Motor Speedway, Stafford, CT.

The June 21 race, an 80-lap event, will be the first of three races this season at the half-mile facility.

Huntingdon Valley, PA, driver Rowan Pennink, and Tyngsboro, MA, veteran Louie Mechalides bring a tie in the point standings to Stafford. Each has 132 points. Pennink was a series winner at Stafford last season.

Tommy Barrett, of Millis, MA, in search of his first win this season, has moved to third in the early ranking based on two-top five finishes and a pair of top-ten finishes. The 18-year old sensation scored a win at Stafford last season.

Continue reading ‘Stafford Motor Speedway Next Stop for VMRS Friday’

Star Speedway SBM 125 Modified Open Early Entry List Released

Published at June 10, 2013 in NASCAR WMT, Star and VMRS. Closed

EPPING, NH — The third annual Star Speedway SBM 125 Modified Open for tour-type Modifieds has grown to well beyond expectations in purse money. With less than one week remaining for race teams to enter the Saturday, June 15 event, 31 drivers from eight different states already preregistered to compete for a payoff of more than $45,000.

Defending SBM 125 race winner Matt Hirschman, who won just under $9,000 in last seasons event, is entered to compete in the J&J Motorsports 59 that he won the race with in 2012. Jon McKennedy won the inaugural race in his own car. He will drive for car owner Art Barry again this season.

McKennedy and Hirschman used different strategies to earn their wins. A pit stop for a new right rear tire past halfway brought Hirschman to victory lane last year, while McKennedy won without a tire change. It remains to be seen which strategy proves to be the winning one on Saturday night.

Continue reading ‘Star Speedway SBM 125 Modified Open Early Entry List Released’

Mechalides Scores Back to Back Wins at Seekonk

Published at June 9, 2013 in Seekonk and VMRS. Closed

Seekonk, MA — Louie Mechalides, of Tyngsboro, MA, took the lead on lap 51 and went on to win his second consecutive “Seekonk 100” Saturday night, June 8, at Seekonk (MA) Speedway. Mechalides captured the June event last season.

Mechalides, while running a strong third, inherited the top spot when leader Todd Annarummo, of Swansea, MA, and Steven Masse, of Bellingham, MA, both victims of a slower car, spun from the lead.

Mechalides then dealt with Dwight Jarvis, of Ascutney, VT, Chris Pasteryak, of Lisbon, CT, and later Tommy Barrett, of Millis, MA, as all took a stab at the lead. Jarvis tried for 38 laps to get by Mechalides but was denied every time.
Continue reading ‘Mechalides Scores Back to Back Wins at Seekonk’

Louie Mechalides Picks Up VMRS Win at Seekonk; DeGasparre, Bruneau and Paiva Celebrate with Victories

Published at June 9, 2013 in Seekonk and VMRS. Closed

SEEKONK, MA — Louie Mechalides picked up his third career Valenti Modified Racing Series win Saturday at Seekonk, holding off some late race charges from Tommy Barrett and Dwight Jarvis. Todd Annarummo jumped out to the lead from his pole position start, and set the pace for the first half of the race. Todd had his hands full, as Stephen Masse made his way through the field from his 11th starting position. By the time the race reached the one-third mark, Masse had closed in on the second generation racer, and put heavy pressure on Annarummo. Todd was able to hold on through a pair of restarts, but it would be lapped traffic that would be their undoing, as just past the half-way point, a car about to go a lap down struggled to find the right groove, causing Annarummo and Masse to get together.

Mechalides took over at the top of the leader board with Jarvis next to him on the restart. The pair raced wheel to wheel for several laps before Jarvis settled in behind. Chris Pasteryak joined the fight for second, taking over the spot for a couple of laps in the latter stages before falling back. With a restart in the final 25 laps, Barret started making a move to the front, and settled into third. At this point, Jarvis was back to trying to find a way by the leader, but Lightning Lou was keeping his hands busy keeping his ground pounder at the front of the pack.

Barret tried a couple of times to squeeze by on the outside, making a strong bid for the lead over the final laps, but Mechalides kept pace at the front, and held on for his first win of the season. Jarvis slid underneath for second by several inches over Barrett. Todd Patnode and Rowan Pennink rounded out the top five.

Continue reading ‘Louie Mechalides Picks Up VMRS Win at Seekonk; DeGasparre, Bruneau and Paiva Celebrate with Victories’

MRS Spotlight: Steve Masse

Published at June 5, 2013 in Seekonk and VMRS. Closed

With our newest spotlight, we focus on one of the top championship contenders in 2013 in Steve Masse.

Steve kicked of the 2013 season in victory lane at Waterford in the VMRS Budweiser Blastoff. After the victory at Waterford, Masse had to come from deep in the field at the series next stop, at Monadnock Speedway, and battled his way to a 13th place finish. Currently, his family run team sits tied for 3rd in Valenti Modified Racing Series point standings with veteran, Mike Holdridge.

Masse continues to assert himself as one the top modified drivers in New England each time he’s on the race track and will always be one to watch when the Valenti Modified Racing Series comes to your home track.

Now lets get to know a bit more about Steve Masse here in the MRS Spotlight.

Continue reading ‘MRS Spotlight: Steve Masse’

Seekonk Set to Host Valenti Modified Racing Series Saturday

Published at June 5, 2013 in Seekonk and VMRS. Closed

Canaan, NH — With only one qualifying heat race contested over two weeks ago, and rain forcing cancellation of that program at Thompson (CT) Speedway, Valenti Modified Racing Series drivers are eager to race this weekend at the famed Seekonk (MA) Speedway, the next stop on the 10th Anniversary tour.

The series last completed race was run April 20.

This Saturday’s race program will feature a 100-lap green flag event for the open-wheel modifieds.

The series top five point men are slated to compete.

[Event Schedule]

Continue reading ‘Seekonk Set to Host Valenti Modified Racing Series Saturday’

VMRS Race at Thompson Washed Out

Published at May 19, 2013 in Thompson and VMRS. Closed

The Valenti Modified Racing Series event at Thompson Speedway, Thompson CT, Sunday May 19, was postponed by heavy rain after one qualifying race won by Max Zachem of Preston, Ct.

The speedway announced ticket stubs and paddock wristbands will be honored at the next VMRS event scheduled Thursday, July 25. Track and VMRS management will also seek a suitable date to reschedule Sunday’s washout if possible.

Continue reading ‘VMRS Race at Thompson Washed Out’

Thompson: Pennink & Casella Look to Repeat in VMRS 75

Published at May 19, 2013 in Thompson and VMRS. Closed

VMRS 75: Today’s Race Marks First of Three Visits to the Big T

THOMPSON, CT — Rowan Pennink is off to a fast start this season. A regular competitor with the VMRS and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, Pennink enters Thompson as the points leader on both circuits. With a combined 4 starts across both series, Pennink has not finished worse than 5th. He was second in Thompson’s Icebreaker and won at Monadnock last month. Pennink has won three of his last five starts on the VMRS. He also picked up his first career win at Stafford Motor Speedway on Friday night.

The Valenti Modified Racing Series will run its third race of the season at Thompson International Speedway today. Pennink hopes to return to victory lane. ”We’re going to Thompson this weekend with the 25 car,” Pennink said. “Hopefully we can put together a strong run up there and come home with a top-5, hopefully a win,  and we’ll go on from there.” Pennink added, “Winning races always builds momentum and I think getting a win like that we can work off that win.” 

Pennink in the Casella #25 has been the driver to beat lately in Thompson VMRS competition. In eight starts, Pennink has recorded three victories, five top-5s and five top-10s. Four of his last five starts have resulted in a 1st or 2nd. The one exception came last July when Pennink led 68 of 75 laps. He finished 17th, 1 lap down, after being black flagged for leaking.  ”Gary’s got his car really hooked up when we go there and Mike Pettit builds up a great motor for up there for that car. And I think the combination it just works out and it seems to always be on point up there.”

Thompson and Stafford are the only tracks a 1/2 mile or larger that the VMRS visits. This season will mark the first time that both venues host three races. ”I definitely think we have a little bit of an advantage going to places like here at Stafford and up at Thompson and a couple of the other bigger tracks and just getting the experience that I have running the Tour car (#93) … (it) puts together for a stronger effort for Gary’s car.” 

 [Event Schedule] [Driver Points] [Owner Points]

Continue reading ‘Thompson: Pennink & Casella Look to Repeat in VMRS 75′

Moniz Team to Make VMRS Debut Sunday at Thompson

Published at May 19, 2013 in Thompson and VMRS. Closed

Preece & Defending Sunoco Modified Championship Team Look to Continue Thompson Success with #31 

THOMPSON, CT — As has been the case for many years, Albert and Cathy Moniz will field their Falmouth Ready Mix team for another full-time effort in the Sunoco Modifieds at Thompson. Ryan Preece of Berlin, CT piloted the #31 Sunoco Modified last season to their first track championship on the strength of 10 victories. “They’re extremely happy, Preece said. “They’re always people that look at the glass half full not half empty; so they’re looking forward to this year, I’m looking forward to this year and hopefully we can repeat it, but if not hopefully we win a few races and have some fun.” 

The team acquired a Tour-Type Modified over the winter. ”Mike Paquette from Chassis Dynamics mentioned to us that this car was for sale,” said Cathy Moniz. “He knew we had an MRS motor and would be a good fit if we were interested. We talked to Ryan and he was excited to run a few races as our schedules permit.”  

The team is looking to run upcoming MRS races at Thompson and Stafford. “I pretty much committed to running Riverhead as many Saturdays as I can besides the Tour, said Preece. “I imagine were only going to do Thompson’s and Stafford’s. I’d like to go to Waterford or Monadnock but it all depends on the schedule, how were doing at Riverhead and just a whole bunch of different things.”

Preece will drive the red and yellow #31 in Sunday’s VMRS 75.  “We’ve been working on the car all week so I hope it runs well. We definitely have plenty of horsepower from Pettit with that. I just hope we unload, we don’t have any problems and we just have a little fun.”

Continue reading ‘Moniz Team to Make VMRS Debut Sunday at Thompson’

Reigning VMRS Champion McKennedy to Make First Start of 2013 Campaign

Published at May 19, 2013 in NASCAR WA-AS, Thompson and VMRS. Closed

McKennedy Returns to Thompson in Art Barry’s #21

Jon McKennedy, the 3-time and reigning Valenti Modified Racing Series champion, will make his first start of the season on Sunday. The Chelmsford, MA driver will pilot Art Barry’s #21 SPAFCO machine at Thompson. “We’re going to see if we can get up there and get a good run out of it,” car owner Art Barry said.

For 2013, McKennedy is not pursuing a fourth series championship in favor of driving an ISMA Supermodified full-time. He will be driving Paul and Helen Dunigan’s #79 car this season. He finished seventh in the season opener as Oswego, NY Speedway earlier this month.

“The Supers are something I’ve always liked,” McKennedy said. “I spent a few years in the Modifieds. I got a good opportunity with the Super. It is time to do something different.” He went on to say, “The plan is to run the Super full time. We’re running for a championship in the Super and just run as many Modified races as I can on the off weeks. I hope to run a few of the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour races. Hopefully the right opportunity, something will come up and I can run a few of those races. But there aren’t that many great rides (available).”

“I’ve been fortunate to have a few good people help me over the years and I’ve been in good quality rides. That helps a lot. I feel that I put a lot of effort into it. You only get what you put into it. It’s a lot of work to be able to adapt to both cars and run good.”

Continue reading ‘Reigning VMRS Champion McKennedy to Make First Start of 2013 Campaign’

Valenti Modifieds Ready To Tackle Thompson on Sunday

Published at May 16, 2013 in Thompson and VMRS. Closed

THOMPSON,CT — The Valenti Modified Racing Series heads to Thompson Speedway this Sunday for the first of three appearances this year at the storied oval. A star-studded field of drivers is expected including defending champion, Jon McKennedy.

McKennedy will make his first start of the season in a Valenti Modified. His car owner, Art Barry, has been sidelined due to illness but he has improved enough to where he not only plans to field a car but fully intends to be at the track. “I’ve got enough guys to put a team together and I’m really looking forward to it,” said the long-time car owner.

The last time the Valenti Modified Racing Series was at Thompson was during the Sunoco World Series of Speedway Racing last October. Rowan Pennink claimed the 75-lap victory and the current VMRS point leader will be looking for a repeat win. That, however, will be a tall order for the Pennsylvania driver who will face stiff competition from a host of extremely competitive VRMS race teams.

Continue reading ‘Valenti Modifieds Ready To Tackle Thompson on Sunday’

Thompson Readies for the Start of the Regular Season

Published at May 13, 2013 in NASCAR WA-AS, Thompson and VMRS. Closed

THOMPSON, CT — All hands are on deck as the Thompson Speedway prepares for the start of its regular season. The track’s schedule of events fills the summer months with a great variety of racing action and special attractions with something for just about everyone.

Sunday, May 19th, is the date that racing returns to the 5/8th mile oval. Headlining that day’s racing will be the Valenti Modified Racing Series with a 75-lap feature event. Joining the VMRS in their first of three appearances this year at the speedway will be Thompson’s weekly NASCAR Whelen All-American Series divisions that include Sunoco Modifieds, Late Models, Lite Modifieds, Xtra Mart Limited Sportsman and Monster Mini Stocks. Each of these six divisions will compete in qualifying races and feature races.

The following Sunday, May 26th, the tack becomes the center of madcap mayhem as the annual Eve of Destruction takes center stage. This Memorial Day weekend tradition will feature Monster trucks including the “World’s Original Monster Truck”, Big Foot. The action packed evening also includes auto thrill shows, motorcycle spectacular, jet powered vehicles, Transaurus, the car eating monster, demo derbies, the ever-popular trailer trash race, kids inflatable fun attractions on the midway and another famous Thompson fireworks display.

[VMRS Roster]
[Parking Map]
[Event Schedule]

Continue reading ‘Thompson Readies for the Start of the Regular Season’

Pennink Looks to Continue Thompson Success

Published at May 12, 2013 in Thompson and VMRS. Closed

Canaan, NH. — Huntingdon Valley, PA, modified driver Rowan Pennink knows the way to victory lane at Thompson International Speedway. He’s won three races at the famed Connecticut oval and will be looking for his second straight win there when the Valenti Modified Racing Series swings into Thompson, Sunday afternoon, May 19, for the first of three scheduled 75-lap events this season. Pennink won the May and October races last year.

Pennink has a slim10-point lead over Louie Mechalides, of Tyngsboro, MA, another previous Thompson winner. Steven Masse, of Bellingham, MA., is ranked third in the standings thanks to his opening day win at Waterford, CT. Masse always runs well at Thompson.

Madison, CT., veteran, Mike Holdridge sits fourth after two races with Tommy Barrett, of Millis, MA, coming off an impressive run last month at Monadnock (NH) Speedway, currently fifth.

[VMRS Roster]
[Parking Map]
[Event Schedule]

Continue reading ‘Pennink Looks to Continue Thompson Success’

MRS Spotlight: Tommy Barrett

Published at May 12, 2013 in Thompson and VMRS. Closed

As a new feature to modifiedracingseries.com, we are going to feature a spotlight on our series drivers and sponsors.

Our first spotlight focuses on one the top young drivers in the country, Tommy Barrett.

Currently, his #9 team sits 5th in Valenti Modified Racing Series point standings. Barrett enters the next event, May 19th at Thompson Speedway, with the momentum of a great 2nd place finish last time out to Rowan Pennink in the Spring Dash 100 at Monadnock Speedway.

Continue reading ‘MRS Spotlight: Tommy Barrett’

Pennink to Lead Valenti Modifieds to Thompson on May 19th

Published at April 29, 2013 in Thompson and VMRS. Closed

THOMPSON, CT — Rowan Pennink, fresh off of a second place finish at the Thompson Speedway’s Icebreaker, will lead a full field of Valenti Modified Racing Series cars and stars to the Thompson Speedway on Sunday, May 19th. The Pennsylvania driver is the current points leader in the VMRS. He gained the top spot as a result of a 4th place finish in the season-opening race at the Waterford Speedbowl and then a win at the Monadnock Speedway. Pennink, like many drivers, competes with the Valenti Modified Racing Series, the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series.

“I think we have a pretty good chance at Thompson”, Pennink said. “With the # 25 car, Thompson seems to be our best track. Gary (Casella) has a really good setup for that track and we have had great motors from Mike Pettit. Generally, we unload the car at Thompson and don’t touch it. The setup has been that good,” Pennink concluded.

When asked about the challenge of competing in every race on both the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and the Valenti Modified Racing Series, Pennink said that they plan to run them all. He did indicate that there are a couple of races that are scheduled pretty close, but he indicated that the teams felt that if all went well they would be able to make every race.

[VMRS Roster]
[Parking Map]
[Event Schedule]

Continue reading ‘Pennink to Lead Valenti Modifieds to Thompson on May 19th’

Valenti Modifieds Next on Thompson Calendar

Published at April 22, 2013 in Thompson and VMRS. Closed

THOMPSON, CT — The Valenti Modified Racing Series will make its first of three stops this year at Thompson Speedway on Sunday, May 19th. The VMRS will headline the six-division race program that will also feature Thompson’s NASCAR Whelen All-American Series weekly divisions.

The VMRS is celebrating its 10th anniversary season and is expected to bring a large field of race teams to Thompson. Over seventy teams have registered this season for VMRS competition with many of them well known to Thompson fans. A host of drivers from the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour are regulars on the VMRS as are a number of All-American Series competitors. Defending WMT champion Doug Coby is a registered VMRS competitor as are Rowan Pennink, Ryan Preece, Keith Rocco, Richard Savary and Woody Pitkat. Some other well-known VMRS regulars are Steve Masse, two-time champions Chris Pasteryak and Kirk Alexander, Todd Owen, Tommy Barrett and many more.

Race number one of the VMRS season was won by Steve Masse and Rowan Pennink picked up the victory in race number two this past weekend. Thompson is the third event on the VMRS schedule and it’s anyone’s guess who will walk away with a victory in the 75-lap main event.

Continue reading ‘Valenti Modifieds Next on Thompson Calendar’

Pennink Celebrates Spring Dash Win at Monadnock

Published at April 21, 2013 in Monadnock and VMRS. Closed

Winchester, NH. – With the Valenti Modified Racing Series celebrating it’s 10th anniversary and where the series got it’s start, Rowan Pennink of Huntingdon Valley, PA, did his own celebrating when he captured the Bond Auto Parts “Spring Dash 100” Saturday night at Monadnock Speedway, Winchester, NH. The victory, Pennink’s eighth series win, makes him the sixth different driver to win the annual April race.

The series second event of the year felt more like a winter-fest as 40-degree temperatures and blustery winds chilled a good crowd on hand considering the conditions.

Pennink took the lead on a lap 94 restart when he bolted by local favorite Todd Patnode, of Richmond, NH. A fast closing late race charge from Tommy Barrett, of Millis Mass, pressured Pennink to the finish.

[Photo Gallery] by Crystal Snape

Continue reading ‘Pennink Celebrates Spring Dash Win at Monadnock’

Valenti Modified Racing Series Champion to Earn $10,000 for Title

Published at April 17, 2013 in VMRS. Closed

Canaan, NH — When the 2013 Valenti Modified Racing Series Champion is introduced at the annual awards banquet in November, Series President and Founder Jack Bateman will hand over a check for $10,000 to the top driver and race team. “ It’s something I wanted to do as part of our 10th anniversary celebration. It will be a special way to honor our champion and close out our 10th season.”

Bateman will make the presentation at the series annual awards banquet to be held this year in Manchester, New Hampshire.

Several drivers have stated their intent to compete for the title and the special championship prize. The banquet date will be announced shortly.

Continue reading ‘Valenti Modified Racing Series Champion to Earn $10,000 for Title’

Monadnock Spring Dash for Valenti Modified Racing Series Saturday

Published at April 15, 2013 in Monadnock and VMRS. Closed

Winchester, NH — When the Valenti Modified Racing Series rolls into Monadnock Speedway, Winchester, NH., Saturday April 20, the New England based organization returns to it’s roots where the series debuted 10 years ago.

The Bond Auto Parts ‘Spring Dash 100’ will be the second event of a 19-race schedule. A strong field of cars is expected to enter the Monadnock program. Five competitors from the first ‘Dash’ in 2004 are slated to compete. All are still involved with the series today.

Popular Dwight Jarvis, of Ascutney, VT., local favorites Rob Goodenough of Swanzey, NH., and Jim Boniface, of Winchester, are entering the 10th anniversary race.

Two retired drivers from the first event will field cars. Gary Casella for Rowan Pennink of Huntingdon Valley, PA., and series founder Jack Bateman, for Todd Owen, of Somers, CT.

Continue reading ‘Monadnock Spring Dash for Valenti Modified Racing Series Saturday’

Testing at Monadnock Speedway

Published at April 14, 2013 in Monadnock, NEMA and VMRS. Closed

Most of the cars were just happy to be out and take a shake down trip around the track a few times. The 81 NEMA car was checking the car over after Waterford last week, found a problem with the wheel. It is all good now and he was enjoying the seat time.

Sean Boudreau was behind the wheel of the 45 Modified. Looks like Mike Stebbins has upgraded from Mini Stock. He was loading when I got to his pit, but took a quick shot of his #66. Being so early in the season, there were a few cars without numbers and/or lettering. Among the familiar faces were Beth Adams, Julia Raymond, Joe Kendall, Tyler Jarvenpaa, Kim Rivera, Bill Kimball, Robert Thompson, Ernie Boudreau, Bruce Clark, Hillary Renaud, and John Lavoie. Next week Monadnock will host the Valenti Modified Racing Series.

Continue reading ‘Testing at Monadnock Speedway’

Rowan Pennink to Take Over Wheel of #89 Hitchcock Motorsports SK Modfied® at Stafford for 2013 Season

Published at April 12, 2013 in NASCAR WMT, Stafford and VMRS. Closed

Stafford Springs, CT — For the 2013 SK Modified® season at Stafford Motor Speedway, the field will be joined by Whelen Modified Tour veteran Rowan Pennink, who will take over the reigns of the #89 Hitchcock Motorsports car formerly driven by Woody Pitkat. In the two seasons that Pitkat drove the #89 car, he posted 4 wins, 22 top-5, and 28 top-10 finsihes in 36 starts. Pennink is looking forward to the opportunity to drive the car this year and says he won’t be putting any pressure on himself.

“This should be a lot of fun, I’m really looking forward to it,” said Pennink. “That car has run strong for a few years now with Woody and hopefully I can keep the car up front this season. Everyone knows that is a front running car, so there is a little pressure there, but I’m not going to be focusing on that. I’m just going to get in the car and do the best that I can and that’s all I can do from my end.”

It was a phone call from engine builder Mike Pettit that turned the wheels in motion for Pennink to land the #89 ride this season.

“I got a call from Mike Pettit who told me there might be an opportunity to drive the #89 car and that I should get in touch with Bob Hitchcock and Kelly Iverson,” said Pennink. “I gave them a call and we talked back and forth for a bit and we were able work out a deal for me to drive the car.”

Continue reading ‘Rowan Pennink to Take Over Wheel of #89 Hitchcock Motorsports SK Modfied® at Stafford for 2013 Season’

Steve Masse Scores Valenti Modified Racing Series Opener at Waterford Speedbowl

Published at April 7, 2013 in VMRS and Waterford. Closed

Waterford, CT — Steve Masse of Bellingham, Massachusetts won the hotly-contested 100-lap Valenti Modified Racing Series feature at the Waterford Speedbowl on Sunday afternoon. It was the first race in an aggressive 2013 schedule for the successful touring series, which is celebrating its 10th Anniversary.

The century-distance grind was the centerpiece of the Connecticut speedplant’s 2013 Budweiser Blast-Off weekend.

Pole sitter Max Zachem led a 26-car field to green, but it was Louie Mechalides quickly assuming the point during the early circuits. With 77-laps remaining, a stout Richard Savary took command followed by Todd Annarummo.

Savary continued building a healthy lead until tangling with lapped traffic on the front- stretch and was forced pitside. He recovered to notch a respectable 11th-place.

 Photo Galleries:
[Sat.] by Adam Fohlin
[Sun.] by Adam Fohlin

[Fri.] by Nicholas Teto
[Sat.] by Nicholas Teto
[Sun.] by Nicholas Teto

Continue reading ‘Steve Masse Scores Valenti Modified Racing Series Opener at Waterford Speedbowl’

Waterford Speedbowl Budweiser Blastoff Results – April 7th

Published at April 7, 2013 in NASCAR WA-AS, NEMA, NEMA Lites, VMRS and Waterford. Closed

Waterford, CT — The 63rd season opener at Waterford Speedbowl wrapped up Sunday with six main events as part of the track’s Budweiser Blastoff Weekend. A total of 13 divisions were on hand for the three-day event, culminating with Sunday’s Valenti Modified Racing Series feature, NEMA Midget race and NASCAR Whelen All-American Series racing. Sunday’s winners included Steve Masse of Bellingham, MA in the 100-lap Valenti Modified Racing Series event, the popular northeastern tour’s 10th anniversary season opener. In NASCAR Whelen All-American Series action Keith Rocco of Meriden scored wins in both the SK Modified® and Bob Valenti Auto Mall Late Model division races, the second consecutive season he has opened the year with wins in each division. Corey Hutchings of Salem was the Street Stock winner and Garrett Denton of Hope Valley, RI won the Mini Stock feature. Todd Bertrand of Suffield took down a popular win in the Northeastern Midget Association race.

Masse made a late race charge in the 100-lap Valenti Modified Racing Series event to come out on top. He started in 13th position and bided his time much of the race. He began his march to the front of the field following a lap-64 caution period for race leader Richard Savary, who spun while working lapped traffic.

Masse restarted the race in fifth position and used another restart following a lap-83 yellow flag to challenge for the top-three. He passed Rowan Pennink for second position on lap-90 and was on leader Todd Annarummo’s bumper by lap-92. The pair made contact racing to lap-93 causing Masse to back off and regain his momentum. He was back to Annarummo’s bumper on lap-95 and made an outside bid for the lead a lap later. After one lap side-by-side, Masse completed the move out of turn two on lap-97 and motored away the final three laps for the victory. Annarummo placed second ahead of Anthony Nocella, Pennink and Mike Holdridge.

 Photo Galleries:
[Sat.] by Adam Fohlin
[Sun.] by Adam Fohlin

[Fri.] by Nicholas Teto
[Sat.] by Nicholas Teto
[Sun.] by Nicholas Teto

Continue reading ‘Waterford Speedbowl Budweiser Blastoff Results – April 7th’

Speedbowl Ready for Blastoff!

Published at April 1, 2013 in NEMA, NEMA Lites, NETS, New England Truck Series, VMRS and Waterford. Closed

Large turnout for open practice this past Saturday

Waterford, CT — A large contingent of racecars and on-lookers turned out this past Saturday at Waterford Speedbowl. Over 125 racecars representing many divisions jammed the pit area to test and tune for the 2013 race season. The Speedbowl opens the New England racing season this coming weekend with Budweiser Blastoff, the track’s 63rd season opener.

The largest turnout on Saturday was made by the Valenti Modified Racing Series. The popular open-wheel series will begin its 10th anniversary season at the Speedbowl as part of Budweiser Blastoff Weekend. Approximately 25 teams attended the practice day to put down laps on the shoreline oval. Series officials anticipate well over 30 teams for Budweiser Blastoff. Race teams from the Northeastern Midget Association (NEMA) and NEMA Lites, plus the New England Truck Series joined several Speedbowl racers in attendance Saturday.

Budweiser Blastoff Weekend takes over the Speedbowl April 5th – 7th. The weekend is highlighted by a 100-lap feature for the Valenti Modified Racing Series and a special 63-lap race for the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series SK Modifieds®. Thirteen divisions in total will each be after the first checkered flags of 2013.

Continue reading ‘Speedbowl Ready for Blastoff!’

Valenti Modified Racing Series Begins 10th Anniversary Season at Waterford

Published at March 31, 2013 in VMRS and Waterford. Closed

Canaan, N H. — The Valenti Modified Racing Series celebrates its 10th year of operation in 2013, and again will open the new season at Waterford, CT, Speedbowl, April 6, and 7, as part of the tracks annual Budweiser Blastoff weekend. The two-day event will be the fifth appearance by the VMRS at the spring race and the first event of a 19-race schedule.

The New England series for modified race cars debuted in 2004 and is popular with fans. Readers of SPEED 51.com recently chose the VMRS as the Top Touring Division.

25 cars signed in on Saturday, March 30, to prepare for the season opener at the Waterford practice session. A strong field of cars is expected this weekend.

Local favorite, and former Blastoff winner Chris Pasteryak, of Jewett City, CT., is an expected entry as is Charlie Pasteryak, of Lisbon, CT. Other series notables expected include Todd Owen, Somers, CT., Mike Holdridge, of Madison, CT., Windsor Locks, CT., veteran Les Hinckley, III, Rowan Pennink, of Huntingdon Valley, PA., and Norm Wrenn, of Nashua, NH.

Continue reading ‘Valenti Modified Racing Series Begins 10th Anniversary Season at Waterford’

Budweiser Blastoff Weekend Event Schedule Published

Published at March 20, 2013 in NEMA, NEMA Lites, VMRS and Waterford. Closed

Budweiser Blastoff Event Schedule

10th Anniversary Valenti Modified Racing Series Logo Debuts

Published at March 10, 2013 in VMRS. Closed

VMRS10thAnnivCanaan, NH — With the start to the 2013 Valenti Modified Racing Series just weeks away, it brings upon the kickoff to the 10th season of competition for the popular New England racing series.

Valenti Modified Racing Series officials look to celebrate this milestone 10th season, with the introduction of a special 10th Anniversary Valenti Modified Racing Series logo and decals. The new series logo will be proudly displayed by competitors and series officials throughout all of New England.

This 10th Anniversary logo was designed by Tapley Designs and will be produced by the Valenti Modified Racing Series’ newest partner, Thirty Two Signs of Baltic, Connecticut., bringing a vibrant and impressive look to every race car that competes in Valenti Modified Racing Series events in 2013.

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Practice Update: 3/9/13

Published at March 9, 2013 in VMRS and Waterford. Closed

The Waterford Speedbowl will be hosting an OPEN PRACTICE on Saturday, March 30th; VMRS teams WILL BE ALLOWED to use this practice session, as it is held before the 2013 season begins. Rotating practice begins at 11am and ends at 6pm.

All testing rules apply (7 days prior to event) once the first race of the season is completed.

Also, like last season, VMRS teams will be allotted a 1-hour practice session (5pm-6pm) at Waterford on Friday April 5th, the day before the season opener.

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Lincoln Tech of East Windsor Returning to Stafford Speedway as Title Sponsor of September VMRS Race

Published at February 8, 2013 in Stafford and VMRS. Closed

Stafford Springs, CT — Stafford Motor Speedway has announced that Lincoln Tech of East Windsor will return as the title sponsor of the track’s Lincoln Tech 80 Valenti Modified Racing Series race on Sept. 14. The 2013 season will be the third consecutive year that Lincoln Tech has sponsored the VMRS event at Stafford, and the fourth consecutive season that Lincoln Tech has been part of the Stafford Speedway family of sponsors.

Lincoln Tech first teamed up with SMS in 2010 when they signed on to be the title sponsor of the track’s 100-lap Late Model race. After the VMRS made its Stafford debut in 2010, the track added a second VMRS race for the 2011 season and Lincoln Tech transferred their title sponsorship to that second race.

“This will be our fourth season together, we’ve received great exposure from our relationship with Stafford,” said Rob Wargo, Eastern Connecticut High School Admissions Reps for Lincoln Tech. “We have several current students as well as graduates that are either racers or crew members at Stafford. We’ve enjoyed a great relationship with the track and Mark and Lisa Arute, and the exposure we’ve gotten for Lincoln Tech has helped us out with admissions. With the race being in September, it’s a perfect lead in to our 2014 high school recruiting class, so it’s a perfect combination for us.”

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2013 Waterford Speedbowl Schedule Announced

Published at January 15, 2013 in ISMA, NASCAR WMT, NEMA, NEMA Lites, NEMST, NETS, New England Truck Series, Pro 4 Mod, VMRS and Waterford. Closed

Fri. 4/5/2013 Blastoff 2013 NWAAS Opener / Practice Practice – Blastoff 2013 weekend divisions only
Sat. 4/6/2013 Blastoff 2013 Qualifying + 7 Features All qual + SKL25, LC20, BL20, NETS25, SX20, XC20, NEMA Lt 25
Sun. 4/7/2013 Blastoff Sunday / 6 Features feat. VMRS 100 VMRS100, SK63, LM50, SS30, MS30 + NEMA25
Sat. 4/13/2013 6 Division – NWAAS + LC + SX SK35, LM30, SS25, MS25, LC20 + SX20
Sat. 4/20/2013 6 Division – NWAAS (SKL) + XC SK35, LM30, SS25, MS25, SKL25 + XC20
Sat. 4/27/2013 6 Division – NWAAS + LC + NETS SK35, LM30, SS25, MS25, LC20 + NETS25
Wed. 5/1/2013 Wild 'n Wacky Wed Opener LC20, BL20, SX20, XC20, Wacky XC
Sat. 5/4/2013 5 Division – NWAAS + LC (SS 50) SK35, SS50, MS25, SKL25, LC20 (LM OFF)
Wed. 5/8/2013 Wild 'n Wacky Wed LC20, BL20, SX20, XC20, Wacky SX
Sat. 5/11/2013 6 Division – NWAAS (SKL) + SX SK35, LM30, SS25, MS25, SKL25 + SX20
Wed. 5/15/2013 Wild 'n Wacky Wed LC20, BL20, SX20, XC20, Wacky XC
Sat. 5/18/2013 6 Division – NWAAS (SKL) + TBA SK35, LM30, SS25, MS25, SKL25 + TBA
Wed. 5/22/2013 Wild 'n Wacky Wed LC20, BL20, SX20, XC20, Wacky SX
Sat. 5/25/2013 5/25 MAYHEM – 5 Division – NWAAS + LC 25 extra feature laps! SK40, LM35, SS30, MS30, LC25
Sun. 5/26/2013 MEMORIAL DAY MADNESS Demo Derby, Trailer Race, Ski Race, E4 50 & more + Fireworks!

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