WRS Modifieds Attracting Young Talent
Stafford Springs, CT — Change in Stafford’s WRS Modified division isn’t only in the air, it’s blowing like a hurricane. Stafford’s premier division is currently experiencing an influx of young and talented drivers with the ultimate goal of becoming the next Steve Park or Tony Stewart. These aspiring kids are turning to the open-wheel Modifieds as a means to bolster a career behind the wheel.
With four drivers in their teens and many more in their early twenties, WRS Modifieds are cultivating the future talent of racing’s big leagues. “WRS Modifieds will provide me with the necessary skills and regard needed to compete at higher levels,” answers 23 year old Rookie of the Year candidate Jamie Asklar. “These cars are the most logical step towards a Modified Tour career.”
Asklar’s future career ambitions mirror that of Stafford’s other “young guns”; to compete in NASCAR’s upper echelon or, for some, the Indy Racing League.
“It’s a great way to learn about a race car,” states 19 year old Eric Berndt. “Just look at the names that have come out of the Modified ranks.” Berndt’s statements are reinforced by former Modified competitor and 1997 Gargoyles 300, Daytona Busch Series winner Randy Lajoie.
“Everyone should drive a Modified to gain respect for the open wheeled cars,” states the former Connecticut resident. “I think a lot of guys would have more respect for the fenders if they knew open wheel racing. Everyone should drive a Modified because it’s intense and a whole lot of fun.” Stafford’s teenage brother duo, Jeff and Scott Johnson, believe in what NASCAR’s open wheel division can teach them.
“We could have turned to other divisions,” remarks 18 year old Scott Johnson. “Modifieds teach you good habits. You can’t throw them around like a Late Model, they teach control and respect.”
Other rising stars of Stafford’s WRS Modified contingent include Don Sandow, Eric White and Ken Barry. And with a near record number of entries for ’97, the division is certain to generate more young racing talent. “It’s encouraging to see these kids in NASCAR Modifieds,” relays Stafford’s CEO Mark Arute. “They see what the division has done for Mike McLaughlin, Jeff Fuller and Steve Park. The next ‘Steve Park’ is in this division, time will tell who it is.”
The chase for the WRS Modified title begins on April 26th and 27th, as the CARQUEST Spring Sizzler kicks off the ’97 Stafford season. Tickets for ‘The Greatest Race in the History of Spring’ are now on sale at the Speedway boxoffice by calling (860)684-2783.
Sources: Stafford Motor Speedway PR