Pipe Smoke 05-01-02
by John “Pipe Smoke”
Welcome to this, the first edition of Pipe Smoke to appear on the YankeeRacer.com website. In October 2000, I started this column as an independent site and now it is time to move to the big time. There are three things that I hope to do here, carry the message of recovery from alcoholism, highlight some of the best drivers and teams coming from Western Ma., and just have some fun. If you like racing, welcome. If you are in recovery, welcome. If you, like yours truly happen to be sober and involved in auto racing, welcome, you have found a home.
Who the heck is, “The Pipe”. My name is John and I am a recovering alcoholic and a member of the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous. In keeping with the A.A. tradition of anonymity, I have adopted “The Pipe”as my screen name, so that I can write about my experiences during mydrinking years and in recovery.
Originally from Northern R.I., I was active in both racing and drinking from 1972 until 1979. From 1979-82, I served with the RIANG and the U.S. Army. I began getting sober in May of 1982 and have remained so since. My anniversary date is May 16th. Upon returning to the states from Germany, I stayed out of racing for a while. From the mid 80s through the 90 season, I was back on track. A highlight of this era was working with Rev Pat Evans of Racing With Jesus Ministries. Pat is a long time friend and mentor. A marriage forced me into retirement during 1990, butwhen the internet appeared, I was ready. A few attempts at on-line groups, led to the start of “Pipe Smoke”
Today I am married to my wife of ten years. I reside with her, threepoodles, an African gray parrot and numerous smaller birds in Springfield Ma. I am employed by Topor Dodge of Chicopee, Ma. and Dominos Pizza of Springfield.
Let’s Go Racing!!!
No news from Monadnock or Claremont this week. Monadnock opened on 4/20 and two WMA drivers scored top 20s. In Pro Stock action it was Barry Gray of Belchertown scoring a 3rd. In the LMs John Warren made his debut with an 11th place finish. Claremont opened 4/27 but no results via email or on their site.
The highlight of the weekend was to be the Spring Sizzler at the Stafford Motor Speedway which was rained out. Saturday action included qualification for the FMS and LMs along with heats at features for the DARE stocks and SK modifieds.
Western Ma. drivers had a great day on Saturday. In FMS qualifying Chris Wenzel of Holyoke was the only local driver to make the field. He willstart 13th which is quite a victory for this underfunded team. Among not timing in were local legend Bob Polverari and Chris Kopec. In theSK mod feature it was a 2nd for Chuck Docherty while Johnny Lobo finished 11th. DARE stock action saw three WMA teams in the top 10. Andrew Durand of Chicopee finished 2nd, Mike Como of Warren, 5th and Eric Wesson of Monson 8th.
Topor Dodge returns to racingTopor Dodge of Chicopee Ma. has returned to racing. For the 2002 season, John Warren of Chicopee Ma. will carry the Topor logoduring his rookie run in the Monadnock late models. Both John and his sponsor are veterans of the former Riverside Park Speedway. John was the “Rookie of the Year” in the Super Stock division in 1999.
Topor Motor Sales, sponsored an entry in the truck class, driven by Brian Merchant and owned by Brad Lavalliee. Look for the red #55 Dodge Avenger to be on top in 2002.
That raps up this one. Till next week, stay straight, turn left, lets go racin!!
For more of Pipe Smoke please visit http://www.angelfire.com/ma/kokoracer/.
Sources: John “Pipe Smoke”/YankeeRacer.com