Thompson, CT: On Friday and Saturday, January 27 & 28, 2012, Thompson International Speedway crowned champions in its six NASCAR Whelen All-American Series divisions. Keith Rocco of Wallingford, CT, took center stage on Saturday night as the Sunoco Modified champion. Late Model titlist Tommy O’Sullivan of Springfield, MA, and Keith “Cam” McDermott of Scituate, [...]]]>

Thompson, CT: On Friday and Saturday, January 27 & 28, 2012, Thompson International Speedway crowned champions in its six NASCAR Whelen All-American Series divisions. Keith Rocco of Wallingford, CT, took center stage on Saturday night as the Sunoco Modified champion. Late Model titlist Tommy O’Sullivan of Springfield, MA, and Keith “Cam” McDermott of Scituate, RI, also received accolades. On Friday night, Larry Gelinas of Buxton, ME, shined as the Super Late Model champion. Sharing the spotlight were Chris “Moose” Douton of Waterford, CT, for his Limited Sportsman title and Danny Field of Deep River, CT, for his Mini Stock championship.

In looking back on the 2011 season, despite significant weather problems, the Thompson Speedway faithful were treated to some truly exceptional racing. Week-after-week, the level of excitement was equal only to that of the level of competition. Championships in four of the six divisions were not determined until the very last Thursday night race event; some came down to the final laps.

The competition at Thompson Speedway is unparalleled; proving once again that a championship at the historic facility is a tremendous accomplishment.

Keith Rocco of Wallingford, CT, has become synonymous with winning at Thompson. The Sunoco Modified 2011 title was his second championship in three years at the Speedway (and third overall). The title was a hard-fought one for Rocco and company. Many nights the battle for victory came down to the final turn of the final lap. Intense competition from the likes of runner-up Ryan Preece, Woody Pitkat, Danny Cates, Rick Fuller, and Todd Ceravolo brought fans to their feet time and time again.

“Whether there are 10 cars or 30 cars, on the last lap the fans are always on their feet,” said the champion from the podium at the Raceway Golf Club, “because you never know what is going to happen. That is why I love racing here at Thompson.”

In sixteen races Rocco secured 15 top-five finishes including six victories. Despite the impressive numbers, the championship came down to the final point race. Mechanical woes on Rocco’s #57 early in the race made for some drama. In the end, Rocco earned his car owners Mark and Mike Payne and the M&M Stone Creations team the title by six points over Preece.

For his efforts, Rocco received a bronze eagle trophy from Thompson Speedway. He also received hardware from NASCAR and a champion’s jacket from Hoosier Racing Tires to commemorate his achievement.

Young gun Ryan Preece of Berlin, CT, took over the Falmouth Ready Mix #31 for owners Al & Cathy Moniz at the start of the 2011 season. It became evident early in the season that the new combination would be a force to be reckoned with; giving Rocco and others a run for the money. At season’s end, Preece had earned 15 top-five finishes in 16 starts including three wins. Danny Cates, of Chaplin, CT, continued to develop as an open-wheel driver posting 14 top-ten and 11 top-five finishes with one victory to finish third in the final point standings. Carl Oberg Sutton, MA, rode consistency to fourth place in the final point standings. He was also recognized as the divisions “Most Improved Driver”.

Former divisional champion, Woody Pitkat of Stafford, CT, had an eventful season taking over the potent ride for owner Jimmy Paige on June 16, 2011. After debuting with a victory, Pitkat went on to score 12 top-ten finishes, 11 top-five finishes and three additional wins; finishing fifth in the final point standings. George Wilkinson of Pawcatuck, CT, who finished eighth in the final point standings, earned Rookie-Of-The-Year honors.

Always a strong competitor Tommy O’Sullivan of Springfield, MA, turned in one great performance after another on Thursday nights in 2011 to earn the title of Late Model Champion. In fourteen races, the T&E Motorsports Team recorded 13 top-five finishes. A handful of victories proved to be insurmountable as O’Sullivan cruised to the championship.

“This championship gives my parents seven total as car owners,” said O’Sullivan. “My brother Mike and I now both have championships adding our three to the four earned by Tom Rosati. I am so proud to be a part of that.”

During the presentation, O’Sullivan received awards from the Speedway, NASCAR and Dave Lind Racing.

O’Sullivan bested a history-laden crop of competitors. Rick Gentes, who sits second on the all-time win list at Thompson, came home as the runner-up. The well-deserved “Most Improved Driver” Mike Scorzelli of Malta, NY, finished third in the season-long standings. John Falconi of Oakham, MA, continued a family legacy of racing success in New England that spans many decades with his fourth-place honors. Falconi was also presented with the Chief Starter’s Award for Sportsmanship. Accomplished competitor Phil Rondeau of Baltic, CT, returned for a full assault on the Late Models in 2011 to round out the top-five in the final point standings.

The Late Model division did not have a rookie contender in the field in 2011.

Keith “Cam” McDermott of Scituate, RI, had been “the bridesmaid” finishing second in the TIS Modified championship chase two consecutive years. At the start of the 2011 season, his sheer determination to make the ultimate leap was evident. Each week, amidst a tight point battle, McDermott seemed to get more focused. And, after 15 top-ten and 14 top-five finishes (in 15 starts) including four victories, the championship accolades belonged to McDermott.

McDermott shared the limelight with his car owners, parents Keith and Calista McDermott.

“We left Little ‘T’ six years ago, “said McDermott, a former quarter midget competitor, during his acceptance speech. “The first time we drove into the big track we had no clue what we were doing. It took us three years to figure it out. For the last three years we have been in contention. My parents stuck with me through it all. This championship would not have been possible without them.”

McDermott also acknowledged that the advice and assistance from Charlie, Chris, and Carl Pasteryak was instrumental in his success.

McDermott also received champion’s laurels from Thompson Speedway, NASCAR, and Dave Lind Racing.

Only four points was the difference between first and second place in the Thompson Modified Division’s final standings. Glenn Boss gave it a valiant effort with 15 top-ten and 13 top-five finishes and six wins. He claimed victory in the final point race only to come up four-points (two positions) short in the season-long chase for the championship. By virtue of his six wins in 2011 Boss’ career win total is now 52; placing him in the top-5 of all-time winners at Thompson.

Another former champ R.J. Marcotte of Millville, MA and two up-and-comers Jason Sundeen of Douglas, MA, and Ryan Morgan of Mystic, CT, rounded out the top-five in the final Thompson Modified point standings.

At Thompson, the Most Improved Driver Award is not decided simply by the advancement in points from year-to-year but by careful consideration by both track officials and fellow competitors. In the Thompson Modifieds Ryan Morgan was recognized as the division’s “Most Improved Driver”. Again, at Thompson, the Rookie-of-the-Year is not simply the rookie driver finishing the highest in points at year’s end. It is the driver that exhibits skill, respect, and sportsmanship. John Lowinski-Loh, Jr. was honored as such in the Thompson Modifieds for the 2011 season.

The previous evening, Friday, January 27, competitors in the Super Late Models, Limited Sportsman, and Mini Stocks were honored with a ceremony of their own.

Super Late Model champion Larry Gelinas of Buxton, ME, was honored for prevailing in what was one of the tightest point battles in recent history at the Speedway. On the final night of points competition, there were three teams in the hunt for the title-Gelinas, Mike O’Sullivan, and Derek Ramstrom. In the end, 12 points separated the top 3 with Gelinas’ margin of victory a mere 6 points over O’Sullivan. Gelinas and car owner NEAR Hall-of-Famer Rollie Lindblad earned the top-honor by virtue of his 13 top-ten and 12 top-five finishes including three wins.

“I have raced at 25 different race tracks and earned five championships at three different tracks,” said Gelinas. “Thompson will always be one of my favorites. The competitors in this division race hard but keep it clean.”

Gelinas received hardware from Thompson and NASCAR along with a championship jacket from Dave Lind Racing. Gelinas was also recognized with the Chief Starter’s Award.
The last two divisional champions, O’Sullivan of Springfield, MA, and Ramstrom of Worcester, MA, settled for second and third respectively in the season-long chase for the championship.

“The competition is wicked,” added Gelinas. “O’Sullivan and Ramstrom were always faster than me. I just got luckier.”

Ramstrom’s crew chief, his father Rick, was honored with the NASCAR Craftsmen Mechanic of the Year. Jim Banfield of S. Glastonbury, CT and Scott Rutherforth of Glastonbury, CT, rounded out the top-five in the point standings. Rutherforth was also recognized at the “Most Improved Driver”. Rookie-Of-The-Year honors went to Jeff Hartwell of E. Putnam, CT.

The Limited Sportsman Division, with its “no holds barred” style of racing, is a fan-favorite at Thompson International Speedway. Divisional champion Chris “Moose” Douton of Waterford, CT, love him or hate him, is masterful at this brand of racing.

Douton, in 15 races, earned 14 top-five finishes and three victories. The veteran competitor and his car owner Don Stebbins where honored with awards from Thompson Speedway, NASCAR, and Dave Lind Racing.

Former champ Scott Sundeen of Douglas, MA, chased Douton all season to finish second in the final point standings. Shawn Monahan of Waterford, CT, Jason Chicolas of Sutton, MA and Brandon Chamberland of Moosup, CT, completed the top-five in the standings. Chamberland was also recognized as the “Most Improved Driver”. Rookie-of-the-Year honors went to Michael Malbaurn of Sterling, CT.

Mini Stock Champion Danny Field of Deep River, CT, was a dominant force in the Mini Stocks in 2011 with a total of eleven wins in 15 races including seven in a row. All totaled Fields posted 14 top-five finishes.

“It doesn’t get any better than this,” said Field. “It was the perfect season.”

Leo Defevers, of Moosup, CT, Tyler Poulin of Pascoag, RI; Joe Baxter, also of Pascoag, and Eric Bourgeois of Moodus, CT, rounded out the top-five in the final point standings for the Mini Stocks. Specialty awards were presented to Joe Baxter as “Most Improved Driver” and Travis Jurcik as Rookie-Of-The-Year. Jurcik scored a win during his rookie season.

On both evenings, the top-fifteen in each division received recognition. Trophies were presented to all drivers in the top-ten in the final point standings. The Management of the Speedway presented Specialty Awards including “Dedicated to Thompson’ Award. This year’s recipients were George Sawyer, Norbert “Metz” Santerre, and Herb Sward. The coveted John Hoenig Memorial Award was presented to Tom Stroiney.

Master of Ceremonies Russ Dowd ended the festivities both evenings with a message of appreciation on behalf of the Hoenig Family and the entire staff of the Speedway and a warm welcome to all for the upcoming 2012 season that gets underway in less than nine weeks at the Icebreaker. The 2012 schedule can be found at thompsonspeedway.com
Sunoco Modifieds (Top 15) 2011 Final Point Standings: 1. Keith Rocco, Wallingford, CT; 2. Ryan Preece, Berlin, CT; 3. Danny Cates, Chaplin, CT; 4. Carl Oberg, Sutton, MA; 5. Woody Pitkat, Stafford, CT; 6. John Catania, Agawam, MA; 7. Todd Ceravolo, Gales Ferry, CT; 8. George Wilkinson, Pawcatuck, CT; 9. Rick Fuller, Auburn, MA; 10. Shelly Perry, Westerly, RI; 11. Rick Shawn, Bradford, RI; 12. Andrew Charon, Thompson, CT; 13. Joe Allegro, Jr., Vernon, CT; 14. Ted Christopher, Plainville, CT; 15. David Morgenstein, Taftville, CT.

Super Late Model (Top-15) 2011 Final Point Standings: 1. Larry Gelinas, Buxton, ME; 2. Mike O’Sullivan, Springfield, MA; 3. Derek Ramstrom, Worcester, MA; 4. Jim Banfield, S. Glastonbury, CT; 5. Scott Rutherforth; Glastonbury, CT; 6. Jeff Hartwell, E. Putnam, CT; 7. Jeff Connors, Ellington, CT; 8. George Bessette, Danbury, CT; 9. Keith Caruso, Millbury, MA; 10. Mike Stefanik, Coventry, RI; 11. Michael Rivard, N. Scituate, RI; 12. Tom Metcalf, N. Stonington, CT; 13. John Materas, Voluntown, CT; 14. Greg Nanigian, Braintree, MA; 15. Scott Foster, Broadbrook, CT.

Late Models (Top 15) 2011 Final Point Standings: 1. Tommy O’Sullivan, Springfield, MA; 2. Rick Gentes, Woonsocket, RI; 3. Mike Scorzelli, Malta, NY; 4. John Falconi, Oakham, MA; 5. Phil Rondeau, Baltic,CT; 6. Damon Tinio, Mendon, MA; 7. Randy Tucker, Millis, MA; 8. John Materas, Voluntown, CT; 9. Jeremy Sadowski, Voluntown, CT; 10. Mark Oliveira, Blackstone, MA; 11. Mark Palmisano; Hadley, MA; 12. Wayne Coury, Sr., Milford, CT; 13. Ryan Waterman, Danielson, CT; 14. Corey Hutchings, Salem, CT; 15. Robert O’Connell, Wretham, MA.

Thompson Modifieds (Top 10) 2011 Final Point Standings: 1. Keith McDermott, Scituate, RI; 2. Glenn Boss, Danielson, CT; 3. R.J. Marcotte; Millville, MA; 4. Jason Sundeen; Douglas, MA; 5. Ryan Morgan; Mystic, CT; 6. John Lowinski-Loh, Jr., Milford, MA; 7. John Studley, Framingham, MA; 8. Brian Tagg, Oxford, CT; 9. Chad Labastie, Uxbridge, MA; 10. Denis Legere, N. Reading, MA.

Limited Sportsman (Top-15) 2011 Final Point Standings: 1. Chris Douton, Waterford, CT; 2. Scott Sundeen, Douglas, MA; 3. Shawn Monahan, Waterford, CT; 4. Jason Chicolas, Sutton, MA;5. Brandon Chamberland, Moosup, CT; 6. Joe Coates, Groton, CT; 7. John Carpenter, Danielson, CT; 8. Dwayne Dorr, Ledyard, CT; 9. Art Moran III, Waterford, CT; 10. Michael Malbaurn, Sterling, CT; 11. Larry Barnett, Moosup, CT; 12. Tom Shea, New London, CT; 13. Diego Monahan, Quaker Hill, CT; 14. Chris Bisson, Putnam, CT; 15. Joe Plonski; Worcester, MA.

Mini Stocks (Top-15) 2011 Final Point Standings: 1. Danny Field, Deep River, CT: 2. Leo Defevers, Moosup, CT; 3. Tyler Poulin, Pascoag, RI; 4. Joe Baxter, Pascoag, RI; 5. Eric Bourgeois, Moodus, CT; 6. Mike Viens, Seekonk, MA; 7. Tim Armstrong, Uxbridge, MA; 8. Brent Gleason, Norwich, CT; 9. Roger Ducharme, Foster, RI; 10. Chad Baxter, Pascoag, RI; 11. Travis Jurcik, Chaplin, CT: 12. Steve Romjue, Coventry, RI; 13. Lloyd Anderson, Jr, Wauregan, CT; 14. Louis Bellisle III, Lisbon, CT; 15. Alicia Thatcher, Pascoag, RI.

THOMPSON, CT. The 2012 NASCAR racing schedule at the Thompson International Speedway has been released. The twenty race lineup has generated considerable excitement as it contains a wide variety of racing programs for both competitors and fans.

The 2012 racing season at Thompson will kick off with the traditional Icebreaker event on the [...]]]>

THOMPSON, CT. The 2012 NASCAR racing schedule at the Thompson International Speedway has been released. The twenty race lineup has generated considerable excitement as it contains a wide variety of racing programs for both competitors and fans.

The 2012 racing season at Thompson will kick off with the traditional Icebreaker event on the weekend of April 14-15 which will mark the opening of both the Thompson season and that of the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour. The season will conclude with the traditional World Series of Speedway Racing in October. Competitors and fans are urged to download a copy of the 2012 schedule so that they can see the entire, season-long lineup of racing action at the historic speedway.

Some of the highlights of the all-new Thompson race schedule include four events for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour including the return of the UNOH Showdown event that features both the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and the NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour. The format will remain similar to the inaugural UNOH Showdown including the 50-lap, $50,000.00+ showdown between the two tours. There will also be two appearances of the Modified Racing Series, extra distance races for each NASCAR Whelen All-American Series divisions plus the addition of the Lite Modified division as part of the track’s Thursday Night Thompson Thunder lineup. The popular Mini Stock Northern Twin Challenge will return for the third time in 2012 and some additional events are still in the works by track management for the Thursday night weekly race programs.

In adding the Lite Modifieds to the weekly lineup, track owner, Don Hoenig, said that the Lite Modifieds had been part of both the Icebreaker and the World Series recently and the positive response from both competitors and fans made the decision to add the Lite Mods to the weekly program an easy one. “This is an exciting division to watch and it has caught the imagination of all of us. We are looking forward to having the Lite Modifieds join us on a weekly basis and we anticipate that the division will grow and become a real fan favorite,” said Hoenig.

In other off-season activity, Thompson’s web site has the 2012 general safety rules that apply to all divisions along with the specific rules for each of the tracks NASCAR Whelen All-American Series race cars. Late Model competitors will also want to become familiar with the proposed rules for their division in 2013-2014.

The track is accepting car number registrations in all divisions. Racers are reminded that car numbers should be renewed by January 15th if they wish to keep their car number. Competitors who earned NASCAR points in 2011 will have their car numbers held until the January 15th date. However, after that date, any numbers not renewed will be available on a first come, first served basis. Renewal forms are available for download from the Thompson web site.
Thompson’s Banquets of Champions are scheduled for Friday, January 27th and Saturday, January 28th. Tickets are available to all competitors that finished in the top ten in points in their respective divisions. The tickets are going fast and race teams are urged to contact Thompson’s Office Manager, Mary Ann Rossi, to place their orders.

The 2012 racing schedule, car number renewal forms and racing rules are all available on the track’s web page. www.thompsonspeedway.com

It wasn’t a tremendous surprise to anyone when Chris Perley of Amesbury, MA pulled the Vic Miller 11 (Plaistow, NH) into victory lane on Sunday at Thompson Speedway. After all he’d been there eight times before. His first World Series ISMA 50 win came on Oct. 15, 2000 and he’s only been out of [...]]]>

It wasn’t a tremendous surprise to anyone when Chris Perley of Amesbury, MA pulled the Vic Miller 11 (Plaistow, NH) into victory lane on Sunday at Thompson Speedway. After all he’d been there eight times before. His first World Series ISMA 50 win came on Oct. 15, 2000 and he’s only been out of the winner’s circle at that Connecticut oval three times since. He only took seven laps to move into the frontrunner spot from his 11th place starting position. His complete domination of the Super Modified portion of the famous Thompson World Series is undeniable, as the record books show, but Perley himself can’t quite explain why.

He shook his head in victory lane and admitted, “I don’t think the domination here has a lot to do with me. Every time we unload here I just can’t believe it. I just sit in the car and drive it. The car seems to love it here. I don’t know what to say really. We don’t break down. The crew gives me an awesome car. Thompson has been just great to come to every year. I kind of wish we came here more often but I wouldn’t want to take anything away from what we have right now. I don’t want to wear it out. It’s just incredible. Happy to see the weather came out great this weekend and all the fans who all came out to see us. I’m happy my family made it too. It’s just that I have a great car, great sponsors, great motors for a great track and it’s a great day. Congratulations to my car owner Vic Miller on his seventh ISMA car owner title. It was great to race for him when I could this year and it’s been great every year. You just can’t beat all of this.”

Having an exciting run to finish second was Raymond, NH’s Jeff Locke who got to lead one lap before the 11 stormed by. Locke had some strong challenges, especially toward the end of the 50-lapper from Timmy Jedrzejek of Ohio, but he held onto the runner-up spot. He said after the race, “This was awesome. I have to thank Richard (Witkum). The car was really good. I didn’t have a whole lot for Chris. I could stay with him but that was about it. Congratulations to him and the whole team. They obviously have this place figured out. I’m really happy to come home second. I have to thank my father and my family for sticking with me. This is a great finish to a pretty crummy year for us. I’m very happy.”

Also very happy was third place finisher, Jedrzejek, who finished up a pretty good year with his new car owner Dan Soule (Clay, NY). “This was a real good run for us. The whole team did a great job today. We adjust yesterday and I hadn’t been to this place in ten or twelve years. So we’re pleased with what we have as a crew. We started off the race a little slow and I think I dropped back maybe to tenth or so. Then the car started to come to me and we weren’t so concerned about being fast at the start of the race but we knew we had to be fast at the end. I thought Jeff and I had a pretty good battle for a while there for second. I just couldn’t hold it with him. I’d get there on those last couple restarts and he’d just pull back around me on the next lap and then I couldn’t do anything after that. Congratulations to Chris and Jeff for first and second and we’ll go happily home to Ohio with third.”

Canadian Craig Rayvals (Brockville, Ont.) had the pole for the ISMA 50 and took advantage of the spot to take the early lead but on lap 7 the 37 of Locke took over and only one lap later Perley absconded with the point and the eventual win. Locke would have to contend with a strong runner Jon Gambuti in his 14, a former Cicconi-owned machine. Behind Jon were the likes of Rob Summers (Vernon, CT), Rayvals, Mike Lichty, Johnny Benson, Jedrzejek and Russ Wood (Pelham, NH). Dave Sanborn, in the Lane 9, flew the first yellow on lap 15 with several pit stops made in the ensuing slowdown by Ben Seitz (Bourne, MA), Brandon Bellinger and then Johnny Benson Jr. Benson had unintentionally tagged his own teammate Lichty, cutting a tire.

Those last couple of restarts bunched the field and although Perley pulled away cleanly, some torrid racing ensued between Locke and Jedrzejek and Lichty and Witkum, which continued to race end. At the checkered Perley had done it again, picking up his fifth in a row with Locke, Jedrzejek, Lichty and Ed Witkum (Westford, MA) the top five.

Vic Miller, whose 11 car was credited with 7 wins in 2011 thanks to Perley and Lou Cicconi, has clinched the ISMA Car Owner of the year title, his seventh. He said briefly amidst the chaos of pits at tech, “That was a great run Chris had here today. I finished up a good year. I wish he could have run all the races this year, but we had a bunch of different guys that really helped out like Louie Cicconi, Vern Romanoski and Otto Sitterly, so it was a great year. We’re really happy. It couldn’t have been better. And, it’s great to get a 7th car owner title.”

In his hauler, Russ Wood also acknowledged what should be his 8th ISMA Driver Championship and giving his car owner Jeff Holbrook a runner-up spot in the Car Owner division. “We finished sixth today and we did what we had to do. Everybody did a good job and we’re just happy to get the driver’s points deal. Congratulations to Chris and Vic. They had a really super year. That’s about it. It’s over and done with and now we relax. It’s a little odd to be the driver champion and have someone else be the owner champion but it’s a team sport and even though it’s a driver’s championship, this team is 100 percent behind it. So it is what it is. Even though we made the sacrifice to go to all the races, we did well and this is the end result. We’ll take it.”

Summary ISMA Event #14. Thompson Sunoco World Series
Heat 1: Chris Perley, Johnny Benson, Timmy Jedrzejek, Craig Rayvals, Jamie Timmons, Ray Graham, Jr., Dave Duggan, Brian Sobus, Joey Scanlon (dnf).
Heat 2: Jeff Locke, Jon Gambuti, Russ Wood, Mike Lichty, Mark Sammut, Dave Sanborn Moe Lilje, Bob Bond, Kody Graham
Heat 3: Ben Seitz, Rob Summers, Jon McKennedy, Bob Dawson, Lou Cicconi, Brandon Bellinger, Justin Belfiore, Eddie Witkum and Dan Bowes (last 2 dns).
ISMA 50: 1. Chris Perley (11), 2. Jeff Locke (37), 3. Timmy Jedrzejek (32), 4. Mike Lichty (84), 5. Eddie Witkum Jr. (97), 6. Russ Wood (29), 7. Mark Sammut (78), 8. Joey Scanlon (88), 9. Jon Gambuti (14), 10. Dan Bowes (18), 11. Craig Rayvals (04), 12. Kody Graham (21), 13. Jamie Timmons (27), 14. Brian Sobus (79x), 15. Brandon Bellinger (02), 16. Dave Duggan (51), 17. Moe Lilje (08), 18. Jon McKennedy (79), 19. Bobby Dawson (28), 20. Rob Summers (35), 21. Johnny Benson Jr. (74), 22. Ray Graham Jr. (90), 23. Bobby Bond (25), 24. Ben Seitz (17), 25. Dave Sanborn (9), 26. Lou Cicconi (66).

Lafayette & Lindeman Share Truck Series Honor; Cardile Lite Winner
Meservey Tops in Pro-Fours; Outlaw Victors Gentes, O’Sullivan & Fournier

Thompson, CT: (October 15, 2011): A raining Friday could not dampen the spirits of fans and competitors on hand for Day #2 of the 38th Annual World Series of Speedway Racing presented by [...]]]>

Lafayette & Lindeman Share Truck Series Honor; Cardile Lite Winner
Meservey Tops in Pro-Fours; Outlaw Victors Gentes, O’Sullivan & Fournier

Thompson, CT: (October 15, 2011): A raining Friday could not dampen the spirits of fans and competitors on hand for Day #2 of the 38th Annual World Series of Speedway Racing presented by Sunoco. Following a full day of practice and qualifying, Saturday night included ten (10) feature events.

In Whelen Modified Tour Time Trials, Ryan Preece of Berlin, CT, made his debut in the Flamingo Racing #16 turning a lap at 18.634 seconds at a speed of 129.747 miles per hour to earn the Coors Light Pole Award. Doug Coby of Milford, CT, and Ted Christopher of Plainville, CT, rounded out the top three in qualifying. Championship contenders Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, CT, qualified eighth while Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, CT, will start Sunday’s event from the fourth position.

In Thompson regular weekly divisions it was Scott Sundeen scoring the victory in the Limited Sportsman division; Cam McDermott of Scituate, RI, in the TIS Modifieds; and Chad Baxter of Pascoag, RI, in the Mini Stocks. Scoring Outlaw division victories were Rick Gentes of Woonsocket, RI (Late Models), Mike O’Sullivan of Springfield, MA (Street Stocks) and Richard Fournier of Warwick, RI (Mini Stocks).
Frank Cardile of Bolton, CT, capitalized in the Sunoco Lite Main event to score the victory. Jason Lafayette of Somers, CT, opened up the World Series feature festivities with a victory in the N.E. Trucks Series on Saturday night. Andy Lindeman of Poestenkill, NY, led green-to-checker to win the companion Truck Series Shootout. Dan Meservey, Jr. of W. Chatham, MA, earned the victory in the Harry Kourafas Memorial event for the Pro-Four Modifieds.

Scott Sundeen of Douglas, MA, turned back all challengers in a caution-marred main event for the Limited Sportsman. Sundeen of Douglas, MA, had to unseat divisional champion Chris Douton to run in the top spot in the Limited Sportsman feature event. A wreck in turn two for Jason Galvin necessitated the caution on lap eight. On the restart, Sundeen had his hands full with Douton. A multi-car incident in turn three slowed the action once again. Another attempt at green was stalled by an incident on the front stretch. Under the caution, second-running Douton headed into the pit area for service. He was not able to rejoin the field. Sundeen was pitted against Jesse Gleason on the lap 11 restart.

Larry Barnett had come from deep in the field to run in third. Barnett and Gleason were locked in a heated battle for second. Barnett had the momentum to take over second. Sundeen enjoyed several car lengths over Barnett. Gleason ran in third ahead of a fast-approaching Puleo. Al Stone joined the fray; making it a three-car battle for third.

Over the final laps, Sundeen could not shake Barnett. Gleason, in turn, kept step with Barnett. After a late race caution, Stone headed to pit road with apparent mechanical problems. In the end, it was Sundeen taking down the victory. Barnett settled for second over Gleason. Puleo and Kevin Mason completed the top five.

Cam McDermott of Scituate, RI, capped off a championship season with a World Series victory. McDermott passed Jay Sundeen for the win; not on the track, but in tech to score the win. Youngster Ryan Morgan led the opening laps of the 20-lapper while second-running Jay Sundeen and 2011 division champion Cam McDermott battled for position. Sundeen was able to hold off the champ and then made tracks to the front. Sundeen was the new leader on lap three. McDermott followed through relegating Morgan to third. Glenn Boss was able to get by Morgan to run in third. Sundeen was able to stretch his advantage over McDermott. Boss reeled in McDermott but could do little by way of making a pass. Morgan headed to pit road.

Sundeen continued to stretch his advantage during the extended green flag run. He held a half-straight away advantage when he cruised under the checkers. In post race technical inspection, Sundeen’s car was found to be in violation of the rules and was disqualified from the event. McDermott was awarded the victory. Boss finished second. Payton Henry finished a distant third followed by Chad LaBastie and Danny Gamache, Jr.

Chad Baxter of Pascoag, RI, scored his second win of the season in the Mini Stocks. Louie Bellisle, III, took advantage of his front-row starting spot to lead the main event. Bellisle immediately ran out to a comfortable lead over Brent Gleason, Travis Jurcik, Mike Gorgievski and Eric Bourgeois. A potentially good run came to an end for Jurcik on lap two when his mount went up in smoke in turn four; bringing out the caution on lap two.

A pair of cautions set up a heated battle for the top spot between Bellisle, Gorgievski, Bourgeois, and C. Baxter. Bellisle held the point but with persistent pressure from Gorgievski. After some bumper tag, Gorgievski set his car to the outside of Bellisle. On lap seven, Gorgievski lost the handle on his mount exiting turn four; losing several positions. Free of Gorgievski, C. Baxter, who had passed Bourgeois, began his assault on the leader Bellisle.

C. Baxter got along side of Bellisle coming to the stripe on lap 16. He made the pass look easy taking the lead on the front stretch. A fully recovered Gorgievski had passed both Gleason and Bourgeois to run third. On the white flag lap, Bellisle made a last ditch effort to steal his lead back; to no avail. C. Baxter easily held back the advances to score the victory. Bellisle had to settle for second. Gorgievski, Bourgeois and Gleason completed the top-five.

The elder statesmen of the Sunoco Lite Modified division showed their prowess on Saturday night. Frank Cardile of Bolton, CT, edged out Earl Pelletier to score the World Series victory. Cardile held off serious advances from Zachary Asklar in the opening laps to gain the lead. Asklar was relentless in his pursuit. While the two went wheel-to-wheel for the top spot, Jay Goff was able to get in on the action.

On lap five, Asklar got the break he needed and motored into the lead. Goff came along for the ride relegating Cardile to third. Cardile immediately fell into the clutches of Dylan Kopec. Goff continued his march to the front taking over the top spot on lap seven. A determined Asklar came back on Goff.

The battle erupted when Goff and Asklar made contact exiting turn two. Goff made hard contact with the inside wall on the backstretch. Asklar was collected by Kyle Spencer. Both Asklar and Spencer were able to continue. Cardile was once again the leader on the restart. Cardile gained a five-car length advantage while Earl Pelletier and Kopec duked it out for second. Kopec watched his good night come to an end when his car dropped off the pace on the backstretch. Cardile stretched his advantage over Pelletier and now third running Dylan Liseo.

Over the final five laps Pelletier was able to run down Cardile. On the final lap, Pelletier was glued to the back bumper of Cardile. Liseo was also in striking distance. Pelletier got up the rear tire of Cardile as they exited turn four. But that was the extent of his advancement as Cardile took down the victory. Pelletier settled for second over Liseo. Asklar was able to come back to finish fourth. Tony Santangelo completed the top five.

A mid-race caution proved to be the catalyst that Dan Meservey, Jr., of W. Chatham, MA, needed to score the victory in the Harry Kourafas, Jr. Memorial for the Pro-Four Modifieds. Frank Perry jumped out to the early lead in the 20-lapper. In the opening laps, Perry was able to stretch his advantage. As the race approached halfway, Dan Meservey, Jr., Brian Vincent, and Norm Wrenn began to cut into that advantage.

The first yellow of the event flew at lap 10 after contact between Vincent and Wrenn sent Vincent spinning. Wrenn was placed at the rear of the field for his action. On the restart, Perry faltered allowing Meservey to take over the lead. A hard-charging David Richardi had worked his way into second. The lead duo quickly got away from the pack. A caution on lap 13 could not slow the duo down. Back under green, the two edged ahead again. Perry continued to run in third followed by Phil Lausier while earlier combatants Vincent and Wrenn battled for the fifth spot.

Over the final laps, Meservey had walked away from D. Richardi. Richardi enjoyed a sizeable advantage over a developing battle between Perry, Lausier, Wrenn, and Vincent. Meservey went unchallenged to the checkers. D. Richard came home second followed by Perry, Lausier, and Wrenn inside the top-five.

Jason Lafayette of Somers, CT, capitalized on a mistake by the early leader to take the lead and the victory in the N.E. Truck Series feature event. Nate Bubello jumped to the early lead while a three-car battle brewed for the second spot between Jason Lafayette, Andy Lindeman and Duane Noll. The three waged a heated battle for several laps; allowing Gee Perry to join the fray. A bobble by Bubello opened the flood gates. Lafayette grabbed the top spot bringing Lindeman, Knoll and Perry along for the ride. Lafayette withstood the pressure from Noll to grab the win. Noll settled for second followed by Lindeman, Perry, and Bubello.

Andy Lindeman took the top honors in the second Truck Series event that pitted the New England Truck Series regulars against the Long Island contingent out of Riverhead Raceway. In this companion Truck Series race it was familiar faces making a bid for the top spot. Lindeman held the top spot while Lafayette and Roger Turbush applied repeated pressure. A great battle was brewing for the third spot as well. Michael Power held the position with Bert Ouellette and Frank Dumicich, Jr., taking chase.

On lap 16, Powers had trouble, making hard contact with the outside wall in turn three to bring out the caution. On the single file restart, Lindeman rocketed out to the lead once again. Turbush was able to grab the second spot away from Lafayette. Ouellette headed to pit road with a problem with only a few laps to go. Turbush and Lafayette duked it out for second allowing Lindeman to gain some breathing room. Lindeman went on to take the victory over Turbush and Lafayette. Dumicich Sr. and Dumicich, Jr. rounded out the top-five.

Rick Gentes of Woonsocket, RI, continued his strong hold on the Outlaw Late Model division with his fourth win in the last five World Series events. Jerry DeGasparre, Jr. rocketed past Gentes after the initial start to take command of the Outlaw Late Model event. In pursuit of the top spot, Gentes was relentless in his pursuit of DeGasparre. The two ran nose-to-tail lap-after-lap. Damon Tinio had his hands full with Marc Curtis for the third spot. Jeramee Lillie was gaining ground as the two battled.

Contact between Tinio and Curtis sent Tinio’s #45 into the wall. Curtis was penalized for his involvement. Gentes had something for DeGasparre on the ensuing restart. Gentes put his #70 in the top on lap ten. Once out front, Gentes easily motored away from DeGasparre. Lillie began to make his presence known in third; catching the back bumper of DeGasparre.

Gentes ran away from the field to score his third-straight Outlaw Late Model victory. DeGasparre came home second over Lillie and Curtis. Thompson Sunoco Modified regular Danny Cates made a rare Late Model appearance to complete the top five.

A battle between brothers was the deciding factor in the Outlaw Street Stock event with Mike O’Sullivan of Springfield, MA, taking the victory. The opening lap of the Outlaw Street Stock main was full of excitement. The leader Andrew Durand was sliding in front of the pack. It was three wide for second and the # 8 of Ryan Bell went up in flames. When things settled down it was the Thompson Late Model champion Tommy O’Sullivan with the lead. Sean Foster dogged O’Sullivan from second. The lead duo continued to run nose to tail as Mike O’Sullivan, brother the leader and Super Late Model ace at Thompson, tried to real in the leaders as they entered lapped traffic.

A single-car incident found the caution flying on lap 12. When the green flew again
T. O’ Sullivan held back Foster. M. O’Sullivan got a great run to steal second from Foster. A little brotherly love found some contact between the O’Sullivan Brothers. Big Brother Mike was the new leader while Tommy got shuffled back to third. Foster, now second, tried in vain to catch Mike. Mike O’Sullivan took home the win. Foster came home second. Tommy O’Sullivan had to settle for third. Ryan Lineman and Josh King completed the top five.

Richard Fournier of Warwick, RI, led only the final lap and only by a few inches to take the win in the Outlaw Minis. Waterford regular Phil Evans set sail at the head of the pack; quickly working his way out to a half straight-away advantage. Behind the leader, Chris Williams, Joe Kendall, Eric Bourgeois, and Richard Fournier ran together in a tight pack. Beth Adams caught the pack. Williams slid up the track coming off turn four on lap 11 to shake up the running order. Fournier meticulously picked his way through to move into second. Kendall had his hand full with Bourgeois for third. Adams pressured Williams.

Evans watched as his sizable lead dissipated once Fournier was free of the pack. On lap 17, he had erased the gap completely. On lap 18, Fournier was glued to the back bumper. On lap 19, he got alongside Evans. The duo went door-to-door on the backstretch.

The two made contact exiting turn four. The machines got locked together. With smoke pouring off the #12 the two cars slowed with the remainder of the pack bearing down. Fournier was awarded the win. Evans was scored second. Kendall had closed in third. Bourgeois and Williams completed the top five.

Qualifying was held earlier in the day for the International Super Modified Association (ISMA) and the North Eastern Midget Association (NEMA). Earning heat race victories for ISMA was Chris Perley of Rowley, MA, Jeff Locke of Raymond, NH, and Ben Seitz of Bourne, MA. In NEMA qualify it was John Zych, Jr., of Liverpool, NY, and Mike Horn of Ashland, MA, scoring victories.

The crown jewel of the Thompson Speedway schedule continues on Sunday with features for the NASCAR All-American Series Sunoco Modifieds, Late Models and Super Late Models. The NEMA championship will be decided with a 25-lapper. An ISMA Super modified will be crowned following their 50-lapper. The Whelen Modified Tour will conclude the weekend of activities with a 150-lapper with the championship on the line. All the action gets underway at noon with pre-race festivities. For a complete schedule visit thompsonspeedway.com or call 860.923.2280.

N.E. Trucks Series Feature #1 Finish: 1. Jason Lafayette, Somers, CT; 2. Duane Noll, Monroe, CT; 3. Andy Lindeman, Poestenkill, NY; 4. Gee Perry, Granby, CT; 5. Nate Bubello, Holliston, MA; 6. Bert Ouellette, Dayville, CT; 7. Craig Cashman, Marlboro, NH; 8. Derek Chriss, Averill Park, NY.

Pro-Four Modifieds (Top Ten) Feature Finish: 1. Dan Meservey, Jr., W. Chatham, MA; 2. David Richardi, N. Easton, MA; 3. Frank Perry, Holbrook, MA; 4. Phil Lausier, Hudson, NH, 5. Norm Wrenn, Nashua, NH; 6. Brian Vincent, W. Warwick, RI; 7. Tyler Anderson, Nashua, NH; 8. Jim Darlington, Foxboro, MA; 9. Eric McGovern, N/A; 10. Mark Giordano, W. Haven, CT.

Mini Stock (Top Ten) Feature Finish: 1. Chad Baxter, Pascoag, RI; 2. Louie Bellisle, III, Versailles, CT; 3. Mike Gorgievski, Auburn, MA; 4. Eric Bourgeois, Moodus, CT; 5. Brent Gleason, Norwich, CT; 6. Joe Baxter, Pascoag, RI; 7. Alicia Thatcher, Pascoag, RI; 8. Mike Viens, Seekonk, MA; 9. Roger Ducharme, Foster, RI; 10. Tim Armstrong, Uxbridge, MA.

N.E. Trucks Series (Top Ten) Feature #2 Finish: 1. Andy Lindeman, Poestenkill, NY; 2. Roger Turbush, Riverhead, NY; 3. Jason Lafayette, Somers, CT; 4. Frank Dumicich, Sr., East Quogue, NY; 5. Frank Dumicich, Jr., East Quogue, NY; 6. Dave Koenig, Freeport, NY; 7. Nate Bubello, Holliston, MA; 8. Erin Dumicich, East Quogue, NY; 9. Keith Rotzi, Islip Terrace, NY; 10. Bert Ouellette, Dayville, CT.

TIS Modifieds Feature Finish: 1. Cam McDermott, Scituate, RI; 2. Glenn Boss, Danielson, CT; 3. Payton Henry, Willington, CT; 4. Chad LaBastie, Uxbridge, MA; 5. Danny Gamache, Jr., Manville, RI; 6. Ryan Morgan, Mystic, CT; 7. J.P. Lowinski-Loh, Jr., Milford, MA. DQ-Jay Sundeen, Douglas, MA.

Sunoco Lite Modifieds (Top Ten) Feature Finish: 1. Frank Cardille, Bolton, CT; 2. Earl Pelletier, 3. Dylan Liseo, E. Hartford, CT; .4. Jamie Asklar, Wallingford, CT; 5. Tony Santangelo, Middlefield, CT; 6. Victoria Bergenty, Plainville, CT; 7. Ronnie Williams, Tolland, CT; 8. Harry Wheeler, Stafford, CT; 9. Dylan Kopec, Palmer, MA; 10. Kyle Spencer, Montgomery, MA.

Limited Sportsman (Top Ten) Feature Finish: 1. Scott Sundeen, Douglas, MA; 2. Larry Barnett, Moosup, CT; 3. Jess Gleason, Lisbon, CT; 4. Ed Puleo, Branford, CT; 5. Kevin Mason, W. Warwick, RI; 6. Ray Downing, Jr., Clinton, CT; 7. Leo Adams, Putnam, CT; 8. Lloyd Anderson, Jr., Wauregan, CT; 9. Tom Shea, New London, CT; 10. Bill McNeil, Stonington, CT.

Outlaw Mini Stock (Top Ten) Feature Finish: 1. Richard Fournier, Warwick, RI; 2. Phil Evans, Uncasville, CT; 3. Joe Kendall, Winchendon, MA; 4. Eric Bourgeois, Moodus, CT; 5. Chris Williams, Waterford, CT; 6. Beth Adams, W. Swanzey, NH; 7. Roger Ducharme, Foster, RI; 8. Tim Smith, Hope Valley, RI; 9. J.T. Surprenant, Central Village, CT; 10. Neil Anderson, Pawtucket, RI.

Outlaw Late Model (Top Ten) Feature Finish: 1. Rick Gentes, Woonsocket, RI; 2. Jerry DeGasparre, Jr., Pawtucket, RI; 3. Jeramee Lillie, W. Warwick, RI; 4. Marc Curtis, Worcester, MA; 5. Danny Cates, Chaplin, CT; 6. Tyler Thompson, Somerset, MA; 7. Rob Visconti, Lindenhurst, NY; 8. Ryan Waterman, Danielson, CT; 9. Damon Tinio, Mendon, MA. DNS-Bill Ahern, Billerica, MA.

Outlaw Street Stock (Top Ten) Feature Finish: 1. Mike O’Sullivan, Springfield, MA; 2. Sean Foster, Ellington, CT; 3. Tommy O’Sullivan, Springfield, MA; 4. Ryan Lineman, Coventry, RI; 5. Josh King, Vernon, VT; 6. Kevin Gambacorta, Ellington, CT; 7. Andrew Durand, Chicopee, MA; 8. Michael Taschereau, W. Warwick, RI; 9. Andy Brooks, Jr., Winchendon, MA; 10. Jesse Hinze, Farmington, CT.

Brockton, MA – Per usual, the Northeastern Midget Association point battle goes to the final race, Thompson’s World Series. Thompson, the fastest venue on the NEMA docket, has been the ultimate test for the midgets for decades.

Thompson has been hosting Midgets since 1940. NEMA has been a mainstay since 1960.

Randy Cabral takes [...]]]>

Brockton, MA – Per usual, the Northeastern Midget Association point battle goes to the final race, Thompson’s World Series. Thompson, the fastest venue on the NEMA docket, has been the ultimate test for the midgets for decades.

Thompson has been hosting Midgets since 1940. NEMA has been a mainstay since 1960.

Randy Cabral takes a 38 point bulge on Greg Stoehr into the 25 lap feature. Russ Stoehr sits 44 back in third place. With eight different winners, the most competitive NEMA campaign in several years comes to an end at Thompson.

Mike Horn (Horn 93x) will be looking to repeat his July 7 victory. Horn and Cabral, Thompson’s all-time NEMA winner with nine, staged an epic battle. Cabral and the Bertrand team will be looking for a second straight and fifth overall World Series win.

The Stoehr brothers are familiar with the Thompson asphalt as well. Russ (Dumo’s Desire), who clinched the title at last year’s World Series, has three Thompson wins. Greg, who’ll most likely be driving Jim Miller’s 3m, has one.

“Thompson Midget winners is one of most impressive lists in all of racing,” says NEMA President Mike Scrivani Jr. “All the greats are there.” Scrivani has tasted victory at Thompson with several drivers including Dave Humphrey, Nokie Fornoro and Gene Bergin.

With lap time often in the high seventeen/low eighteens, experience is a powerful weapon at Thompson. In addition to Cabral and the Stoehr boys, Keith Botelho (Stoehr 25), Lou Cicconi (Cicconi 75), Jeff Horn (Horn A1), Ben Seitz (Cantor 7ny), BJ MacDonald (MacDonald 49) and Joey Payne (Breault 44) are all Thompson tested.

Other contenders are John Zych (Zych 9), Barry Kittredge (Kittredge 8), Chris Leonard (Leonard 22) and Todd Bertrand (Bertrand 39).

Thompson Speedway
NEMA Winners

No. Driver First Last

9 Randy Cabral 2001 2008

6 Johnny Mann 1972 1978

5 Drew Fornoro 1985 2003

5 Nokie Fornoro 1982 2009

4 Johnny Coy Sr. 1969 1981

4 Armond Holley 1976 1977

3 Bob Cicconi 1978 1987

3 Ben Seitz 2005 2007
3 Russ Stoehr 1994 2002

2 Mark Buonomo 2001 2004

2 Dave Humphrey 1970 1971

2 Russ Klar 1969 1972

2 Hank Rogers 1980 1980

2 Bobby White 1979 1979

One-time Thompson winners: Gene Bergin (1969), Lennie Boyd (1979), Kyle Carpenter (2002), Joey Coy (1992), Johnny Coy Jr. (1981), Ryan Dolan (2002), Leigh Earnshaw (1979), Ronnie Evans (1970), Mike Favulli (1989), George Ferguson Jr. (1978), Walt Gale (1968), Mike Horn (2011),George Monsen (1978), Joey Payne Jr. (2000), Bobby Santos III (2003), Dutch Schaefer (1960), Greg Stoehr (1993), Butch Walsh (1986), Hank Williams (1960).

THOMPSON, CT. The 38th annual Sunoco World Series of Speedway Racing will be held this weekend at the Thompson International Speedway. This incredible race program will run Friday through Sunday, October 14-16, and will feature hundreds of race cars representing some 15 different divisions.

The Sunoco World Series of Speedway Racing presented by [...]]]>

THOMPSON, CT. The 38th annual Sunoco World Series of Speedway Racing will be held this weekend at the Thompson International Speedway. This incredible race program will run Friday through Sunday, October 14-16, and will feature hundreds of race cars representing some 15 different divisions.

The Sunoco World Series of Speedway Racing presented by Town Fair Tire and XTRA/MART is the only race program of its kind in the northeast. The Speedway is converted into a small city of racing enthusiasts from Florida to Canada who faithfully make the trip to Thompson every October. They come in droves to watch great racing and to enjoy the party atmosphere that is a big part of this very special weekend.

This three-day high speed extravaganza brings nearly every type and style of oval track race car and race truck to Thompson Speedway for the traditional season-ending grand finale. Headlining the racing action is the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, the ultra fast Super Modifieds of ISMA, the NEMA Midgets, and Thompson’s “Super6” NASCAR Whelen All-American Series divisions. Add to that the Sunoco Lite Modifieds, Pro 4 Modifieds, New England Race Trucks and three “outlaw” racing divisions and you have an amazing lineup ready for exciting high speed action.

Grandstands open at 4:30 PM on Friday so that fans can watch qualifying races for eight different divisions that will be competing for starting spots in feature event racing on Saturday evening. On Saturday, grandstands will open at 9 AM with practice running until 2 PM. Once Saturday practice is completed, qualifying for the Whelen Modified Tour will kick off the competition part of the day. WMT time trials will be followed by qualifying races for the ISMA Super Modifieds, the NEMA Midgets, Sunoco and Sunoco Lite Modifieds, Super Late Models and Thompson Late Models. At roughly 5:45 PM the first of nine feature events will roll onto the speedway for their special moment in the World Series.

Sunday’s activities at the track begin when the grandstands open at 9 AM. Pre-race ceremonies are slated for 11:30 AM with the first sound of racing engines coming to life at 12 Noon. Feature events on Sunday include ISMA Super Modifieds, NEMA Midgets, Sunoco Modifieds, Super Late Models, Sunoco Lite Modifieds and Late Models. The entire weekend comes to a close with the WMT 150-lap race that will determine the 2011 WMT champion. Points leader Ron Silk and Todd Szegedy are in a close points battle for that title. If Silk prevails, it will be his first ever WMT championship. Szegedy is looking for his second title. It will all come down to the final race of the season for the “Tour” at Thompson. Championships are also on the line in many other of the participating divisions including the coveted ISMA and NEMA titles.

Racing is the main attraction at the Sunoco World Series but the good time party atmosphere marking the end of another racing season takes a close second. Activities in the Thompson Club House provide great food and entertainment all weekend long. A great dinner Friday night is followed by an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet on both Saturday and Sunday morning. The highlight at the Club House comes Saturday night with a great World Series dinner menu along with music and dancing until the wee hours of Sunday morning. Hundreds of fans take full advantage of the free camping policy at the track. All units, however, must be self-contained.

Tickets are available for advance purchase through Thursday afternoon at 4 PM at the Thompson Speedway track office. Walk-ins and credit card calls are welcome. 860-923-2280. Fans and competitors can find complete details of available activities and the race weekend schedule on the Thompson Speedway web site. www.thompsonspeedway.com

Thompson, CT (October 6, 2011): After three consecutive rain-outs, Thompson International Speedway finally was able to put the finishing touches on the regular season. Six-divisions vied for feature victories and championship laurels. When the [...]]]>
Ramstrom, Palmisano, Barnett, Boss & Jurcik Also Victorious;
Rocco, Gelinas, O’Sullivan, Douton, McDermott & Field Crowned ‘11 Champs

Thompson, CT (October 6, 2011): After three consecutive rain-outs, Thompson International Speedway finally was able to put the finishing touches on the regular season. Six-divisions vied for feature victories and championship laurels. When the final checkered flag of 2011 Thursday Night Thompson Thunder it was Woody Pitkat of Stafford, CT (Sunoco Mods), Derek Ramstrom of Worcester, MA, (Super Late Models), Marc Palmisano of Hadley, MA, (Late Models), Larry Barnett of Moosup, CT (Limited Sportsman) and Travis Jurcik of Chaplin, CT, (Mini Stocks) scoring feature victories.

Earning championships for the 2011 season where Keith Rocco of Wallingford, CT, in the Sunoco Modifieds, Larry Gelinas of Buxton, ME, in the Super Late Models and Tommy O’Sullivan of Springfield, MA in the Late Models. Chris “Moose” Douton was crowned the Limited Sportsman champ for 2011; Cam McDermott of Scituate, RI reigned in the TIS Modifieds; and Danny Field, Deep River, CT, earned top-honors in the Mini Stock division.

Woody Pitkat of Stafford, CT, led only one lap in the final Sunoco Modified point race of the 2011 season – the final one. There was plenty of drama during the feature event as Keith Rocco appeared to suffer mechanical troubles taking the chase to the championship down to the wire. Rocco salvaged a 12th place finish; enough to score his second-straight championship by a mere six points.

John Catania watched as a great start was for naught as the caution was waving before the completion of the first lap could be completed for an incident involving George Wilkinson and Carl Oberg. Catania would not be so lucky on the second attempt at the start. Rick Fuller rocketed to lead the opening lap bringing Keith Rocco, and Ryan Preece along for the ride. Catania continued to slide backward.

On lap three, Rocco was the new leader. Preece was in hot pursuit in second. A brewing battle was cooled for a single-car incident involving Shelly Perry. On the ensuing restart on lap four, Rocco was able to maintain his lead. Rocco had plenty of company in Preece. Fuller ran in third ahead of a great battle for fourth between Todd Ceravolo and Woody Pitkat.

Rocco bobbled on the backstretch handing the led over Preece. There looked to be a problem on Rocco’s #57 as he lost positions to Fuller and Ceravolo. An advantageous spin by Wilkinson found the caution waving before the completion of the lap. Going back to the last completed green flag lap, Rocco was able to restart in the second position.

Preece maintained his lead for only a half a lap. In turn two Preece slid high in the corner opening the door for both Fuller and Rocco. Fully recovered, Preece drove by Fuller on lap 10 for the top spot once again. Again, Rocco began to slide backward. A spin by Jay Goff found the caution flying once again on lap 11. Under the caution, Fuller was brought to pit road with reports of leaking fluid. Officials found fluid coming from Fuller’s car; ending his bid for a feature win in 2011.

Danny Cates lined up beside Preece for the restart on lap 11. Preece was up for the challenge and back into the lead. On the restart Rocco faltered. Rocco lost a lap to the leaders on lap 16. Back up front, Preece was able to get away from Cates and Pitkat. Pitkat jockeyed for position behind Cates looking for an opening. Pitkat was able to get by Cates with five laps remaining. Pitkat immediately tracked down Preece.

Pitkat caught Preece with two laps remaining. The duo entered heaving lapped traffic on the white flag lap. Pitkat got alongside Preece coming out of two making it three-wide with a lapped car. The duo went wheel-to-wheel through turn three and into four. Pitkat came out of turn four to grab the lead and ultimately the win. Preece had to settle for second. Cates earned a podium finish. Preece’s teammate for the night Todd Ceravolo and Rick Shawn completed the top give.

Derek Ramstrom of Worcester, MA, turned in a flawless performance to score a commanding victory in Super Late Models. Ramstrom cruised out to the lead in the opening laps of the Super Late Model event. He stretched his advantage as Larry Gelinas, George Bessette and Mike O’Sullivan waged a heated battle for the second position. Gelinas, who entered the final point race of the season by a mere four points over Mike O’Sullivan, was the first to get by Bessette. His rival O’Sullivan was not far behind; taking the position away from Bessette a lap later.

Back up front, Ramstrom continued to enjoy a huge advantage over second-running Gelinas. Gelinas held a 10-car length advantage over O’Sullivan. Meanwhile, Bessette and Jim Banfield duked it out for fourth. The duo went fender-to-fender for many laps before Banfield settled back in line behind Bessette.

At halfway, Ramstrom ran alone up front clicking off fast laps at the head of the field. O’Sullivan, who needed to advance two positions over Gelinas for his shot at the championship, could not cut into the distance to Gelinas in second. It was smooth sailing for Ramstrom as he cruised to his fifth victory of the 2011 season. Gelinas finished second to secure the 2011 Super Late Model championship for car owner Rollie Lindblad. Mike O’Sullivan had to settle for third. Banfield was able to steal the fourth position away in the closing laps. Bessette rounded out the top five.

Marc Palmisano of Hadley, MA, an infrequent visitor to Thompson over the last several seasons, visited victory lane in the Late Models for the first time since 2008. The Late Models had a tough time getting going on Thursday night. When the smoke cleared it was Corey Hutchings in command. During the first stretch of green flag racing, Marc Palmisano was getting racy with leader Hutchings. Tommy O’Sullivan, who clinched the championship by simply starting the event, made it a three-car battle for the lead.

After running side-by-side for a pair of laps, Palmisano established himself as the new leader. Hutchings fell into the clutches of O’Sullivan. After a quick battle, O’Sullivan freed himself of Hutchings. The early leader was falling back when Kevin Bowe made significant contact with the turn four wall to bring out the caution. Hutchings headed down pit road under the caution and would not return to the event.

Palmisano retained his lead when the race returned to green. O’Sullivan remained in striking distance while the battle for third raged between John Falconi and Rick Gentes. Just after halfway, Gentes was able to gain the advantage and sole possession of third. Up front, Palmisano appeared to be inching away from O’Sullivan. Gentes continued to run in third a distance behind O’Sullivan.

Palmisano turned it on late in the race and motored away from O’Sullivan to post the victory. O’Sullivan finished the battle in second but won the war as he crossed the stripe as the 2011 Late Model champion. Rick Gentes came home third followed by Falconi and Phil Rondeau inside the top-five.

Larry Barnett of Moosup, CT, earned a hard-fought victory in a wild Limited Sportsman main event. Tommy Shea led the opening lap of the Limited Sportsman main event. He was able to maintain his lead through a two-fold assault by Corey Fanning and Art Moran III. A lap later, Shea lost the battle to a hard-charging Chris Douton, who went from fourth to the lead in a single-lap. Moran was able to get by Shea to run second. Larry Barnett was making his way into contention. Early contender Fanning spun in turn two on lap six to bring out the caution.

On the restart, Douton had his hands full with Moran. Barnett made it a three-car battle for the top-spot. Dwayne Dorr, who had been in contention early, and the early leader Shea tangled in turn two to bring out the event’s third caution. An overzealous Moran went early on the ensuing restart. He received the consolation flag and was penalized to the rear of the field. Douton was now pitted against Barnett.

Douton was quick on the draw to retain his lead. Scott Sundeen jumped into second ahead of Barnett. Sundeen was glued to the back bumper of Douton. Sundeen dove below leader Douton entering turn one on lap 14. Sundeen was carrying too much speed and made contact with the leader Douton. Simultaneously at the back of the pack, contact between Shea and Dorr found the yellow flying. Douton was saved as the caution was on the speedway as the leader spun. Dorr was sent to the pits for his involvement in the incident.

When things finally settled down and back to green it was all Douton. The battle for second waged between Barnett and Sundeen. On lap 15, Douton slipped up in turn two opening the door for Barnett. Barnett got the advantage to take the lead on lap 16. Douton immediately had his hands full with Sundeen. Moran had worked his way back into the fourth position. Barnett stretched his advantage by two car-lengths. Douton motored ahead of Sundeen for second. Moran dogged Sundeen in third.

Barnett earned his second win of the year holding back the division’s 2011 champion Douton to score the victory. Douton capped off his title season finishing second. Sundeen, Moran and Leo Adams completed the top five.

Glenn Boss of Danielson, CT, scored his sixth win of the 2011 season in the TIS Modifieds. Brian Tagg led the field of TIS Modifieds to the green. He held the top spot over J.P. Lowinski-Loh, Jr. Glenn Boss, John Studley, and Cam McDermott ran in a tight pack to complete the top-five. Dermott entered the night six-points ahead of Boss in the chase for the 2011 TIS Modifieds championship.

Tagg continued to lead on lap five but had his hands full with Boss. McDermott had also worked past Lowinski-Loh, Jr. Boss easily took over the lead from Tagg. McDermott made quick work of Tagg as well. McDermott had his sights set on Boss when the caution flew for a major incident exiting turn four. Tagg and Ryan Morgan locked bumpers sliding sideways with the remainder of the pack bearing down. Morgan shot straight into the wall. John Studley and Jay Sundeen sustained heavy damage. Chad LaBastie was also involved. Quick work by Morgan’s crew got the young driver back into the action.

Boss was ready on the restart on lap nine getting away from McDermott by a car length. McDermott appeared to be content to chase Boss once the duo took the crossed flags. Lowinski-Loh ran all alone in third while Tagg, LaBastie and Payton Henry had their own battle for fourth. Tagg held the position with persistent pressure from LaBastie. The battled boiled over as the two went spinning entering turn two to bring out the caution again on lap 17.

The restart with three laps remaining found Boss retaining his lead over McDermott. Boss had the race in hand taking the victory over McDermott. Lowinski-Loh, Payton Henry, and LaBastie had career nights finishing inside the top-five.

Travis Jurcik of Chaplin, CT, capped of his rookie season in the Mini Stock with his first career win. Jurcik jumped out to an early lead in the Mini Stock main event. Once out front, Jurcik set sail. He enjoyed a sizeable lead through lap five when Chad Baxter joined the fray. Lap-after-lap the margin between the Jurcik and second-running C. Baxter narrowed. By halfway, C. Baxter had found the back bumper of Jurcik; dogging him for the lead.

C. Baxter dove low on consecutive laps; to no avail. Each time C. Baxter settled back in line. He made a last ditch effort on the lead exiting turn four. Jurcik rocketed out of the turn heading to the checkers for his first career victory. C. Baxter had to settle for second. Louie Bellisle edged out Eric Bourgeois for third. Tyler Poulin rounded out the top five.
By virtue of his dominating season, Danny Field had previously clinched the divisional championship.

Next up for the Thompson International Speedway is the annual World Series Of Speedway Racing, Friday, Saturday & Sunday, October 14-15-16, 2011. The final point race for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour (150 Laps) will highlight a weekend that will feature 15 divisions. The schedule includes a 50-lap main for the ISMA Super Modifieds and a 25-lapper for the NEMA Midgets. Also on tap are the Sunoco Modifieds (30 Laps), Sunoco Lite Modifieds (20 Laps), Super Late Models (30 Laps), Late Models (25 Laps), TIS Modifieds (20 Laps), Ltd. Sportsman (20 Laps), Mini Stocks (20 Laps), Pro 4 Modifieds (25 Laps), and the N. E. Truck Series (25 Laps). The ever-popular Outlaw divisions will see the Outlaw Late Models (25 Laps), Outlaw Street Stocks (20 Laps), and Outlaw Mini Stocks (20 Laps) in competition. For a complete details visit thompsonspeedway.com. Fans are reminded to keep their general admission ticket from October 6th to receive a $5.00 discount off World Series general admission!

Sunoco Modified (Top Ten) Feature Finish: 1. Woody Pitkat, Stafford, CT; 2. Ryan Preece, Berlin, CT; 3. Danny Cates, Chaplin, CT; 4. Todd Ceravolo, Gales Ferry, CT; 5. Rick Shawn, Bradford, RI; 6. Joe Allegro, Jr., Vernon, CT; 7. John Catania, Agawam, MA; 8. Carl Oberg, Sutton, MA; 9. Jay Goff, Stafford, CT; 10. Shelly Perry, Westerly, RI.

Super Late Model Feature Finish: 1. Derek Ramstrom, Worcester, MA; 2. Larry Gelinas, Buxton, ME; 3. Mike O’Sullivan, Springfield, MA; 4. Jim Banfield, S. Glastonbury, CT; 5. George Bessette, Danbury, CT; 6. Scott Rutherforth, S. Glastonbury, CT, 7. Jeff Hartwell, E. Putnam, CT.

Late Model (Top Ten) Feature Finish: 1. Marc Palmisano, Hadley, MA; 2. Tommy O’Sullivan, Springfield, MA; 3. Rick Gentes, Woonsocket, RI; 4. John Falconi, Oakham, MA; 5. Phil Rondeau, Baltic, CT; 6. Damon Tinio, Mendon, MA; 7. Randy Tucker, Millis, MA; 8. Ryan Waterman, Danielson, CT; 9. Randy Waterman, Danielson, CT; 10. Corey Hutchings, Salem, CT.

Limited Sportsman (Top Ten) Feature Finish: 1. Larry Barnett, Moosup, CT; 2. Chris Douton, Waterford, CT; 3. Scott Sundeen, Douglas, MA; 4. Art Moran, III, Preston, CT; 5. Leo Adams, Putnam, CT; 6. Tommy Shea, New London, CT; 7. Mike Palin, Dudley, MA; 8. Jared Edson, Winchendon, MA; 9. Brandon Chamberland, Moosup, CT; 10. Chris Bisson, Putnam, CT.

TIS Modifieds (Top Ten) Feature Finish: 1. Glenn Boss, Danielson, CT; 2. Cam McDermott, Scituate, RI; 3. J.P. Lowinski-Loh, Jr., Milford, MA; 4. Payton Henry, Willington, CT; 5. Chad LaBastie, Uxbridge, MA; 6. Brian Tagg, Oxford, MA; 7. R.J. Marcotte, Millville, MA; 8. Ryan Morgan, Mystic, CT; 9. John Studley, Framingham, MA; 10. Jay Sundeen, Douglas, MA.

Mini Stock (Top Ten) Feature Finish: 1. Travis Jurcik, Chaplin, CT; 2. Chad Baxter, Pascoag, RI; 3. Louie Bellisle, III, Versailles, CT; 4. Eric Bourgeois, Moodus, CT; 5. Tyler Poulin, Pascoag, RI; 6. Leo Defevers, Brooklyn, CT; 7. Mike Anzalone, Griswold, CT; 8. Brent Gleason, Norwich, CT; 9. Danny Field, Deep River, CT; 10. Joe Baxter, Pascoag, RI.

THOMPSON, CT. The World Series of Speedway Racing will once again be more than a spectacular weekend of auto racing. The three-day race fest will determine divisional championships for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, the ISMA Super Modifieds, NEMA Midgets, Pro 4s and the New England Truck Series.

Ron Silk, the current points [...]]]>

THOMPSON, CT. The World Series of Speedway Racing will once again be more than a spectacular weekend of auto racing. The three-day race fest will determine divisional championships for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, the ISMA Super Modifieds, NEMA Midgets, Pro 4s and the New England Truck Series.

Ron Silk, the current points leader on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, will enter the Sunoco World Series of Speedway Racing presented by Town Fair Tire and XTRA/MART with an advantage of 57 points over Todd Szegedy. Silk will be seeking his first Tour title while Szegedy, the 2003 champion, will be looking for his second. It will all come down to the WMT 150-lap feature event slated for Sunday, October 16th. Both Silk and Szegedy will have plenty of competition as the best drivers on the WMT are expected for the season finale at Thompson.

The ISMA Super Modifieds will also determine a champion at the Sunoco World Series. Russ Wood will be seeking his 7th ISMA title. He leads Mike Lichty by a slim margin in the points going into the Thompson race. Unlike the WMT, the Supers have only 50 laps to sort things out. This should make for another great championship run for the incredibly fast winged Super Modifieds.

Three drivers will be in contention for the NEMA title in one of the tightest points races in recent memory for NEMA. Midget aces Randy Cabral, Russ and Greg Stoehr will all bring their best efforts to Thompson in an attempt to win the laurels of the storied Midget organization. Cabral holds an 8 points advantage over Russ Stoehr and an eleven points edge over Greg Stoehr.

The most hotly contested championship might just be in the Pro 4 Modified division. With two races remaining on their 2011 schedule, five drivers find themselves with a shot at the top spot. Tyler Anderson, Phil Lausier, Rob Richardi, Jr., Dick Dubois and Norm Wrenn are separated by a mere 48 points. Andy Linderman looks to be in a position to wrap up another title in the New England Truck Series.

Typically, Thompson’s World Series of Speedway Racing offers, in many divisions, the classic race within a race; a race for the win and a race for a championship. Fans travel from Canada and all up and down the east coast to attend this annual event. Tickets are available by calling the track office. 860-923-2280. The complete three-day schedule of events is available at www.thompsonspeedway.com

THOMPSON, CT. Baseball and auto racing at Thompson International Speedway have one big thing in common. Both present an amazing post season event known as the World Series. In the case of the Thompson Speedway, it’s the 38th annual Sunoco World Series of Speedway Racing presented by Town [...]]]>
POST SEASON MEANS WORLD SERIES

THOMPSON, CT. Baseball and auto racing at Thompson International Speedway have one big thing in common. Both present an amazing post season event known as the World Series. In the case of the Thompson Speedway, it’s the 38th annual Sunoco World Series of Speedway Racing presented by Town Fair Tire and XTRA/MART on the weekend of October 14th-16th.

Racing’s World Series at Thompson is a massive three-day racing spectacle that features 15 different divisions of race cars and trucks. Topping the bill will be the Super Modifieds of ISMA, the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, NEMA Midgets, Thompson’s ‘Super 6” NASCAR Whelen All-American Series divisions and many more.

The final race event of the season at Thompson begins on Friday, October 14th, when a dozen of the participating divisions will have the opportunity to practice. Eight of those will have qualifying races on Friday for their main events on Saturday. Things get busier on Saturday when the remaining divisions take to the track for practice. They will then qualify in heat races or time trials for their Sunday feature races. Once Saturday qualifying is wrapped up, those divisions that qualified on Friday will be lined up for their feature event races. In all, nine of the 15 divisions will compete in Saturday evening main events.

Sunday, October 15th, is when the big guns roll out. The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour will wrap up its season with a 150-lap event. ISMA’s winged Super Modifieds will also end their season at Thompson with their traditional 50-lap main. The curtain will fall on the season for the NEMA Midgets when they take to the track for their Sunday 25-lap feature event. Thompson’s Sunoco Modifieds, Super Late Models and Late Model divisions will share the Sunday lineup.

Tickets for the Sunoco World Series of Speedway racing are good for all three days with grandstands opening at 4:30 PM on Friday and at 9 AM on both Saturday and Sunday. The track offers free camping for hundreds of race fans who arrive with self-contained units.

In addition to the three days of non-stop action on the speedway, the Raceway Restaurant and Lounge will be fully staffed to provide breakfast both Saturday and Sunday along with the traditional Saturday night dinner and entertainment provided by a live band.

The Sunoco World Series of Speedway Racing is an event like no other. Each year, racers and fans travel from Canada and all over the eastern United States to be part of this amazing event. Thousands of fans and hundreds of race teams gather each year at Thompson’s World Series to crown champions, celebrate another racing season and to be part of a very special gathering of friends and family.

Fans have the opportunity to purchase their tickets in advance and thus avoid the typical long lines at the ticket booth on race weekend. A simple phone call to the track office (860-923-2280) will secure tickets that can be mailed directly or held at “will call”. The complete three-day schedule of events is available on the Thompson web site. www.thompsonspeedway.com

The amazing string of rainy Thursdays has frustrated racers, fans and track management. However, [...]]]>
THOMPSON, CT. For the third consecutive week, rain has forced the postponement of Thompson Speedway’s Thursday Night Thunder race program. The track will attempt to run the final track points race of the year next Thursday, October 6th.

The amazing string of rainy Thursdays has frustrated racers, fans and track management. However, Thompson Owner and Promoter, Don Hoenig, today expressed his thanks to loyal fans and competitors for their understanding and said that he hopes that we all will get a break in a weather pattern that has targeted Thursdays in New England.

Four of Thompson’s NASCAR Whelen All-American Series divisions still have championship battles that Hoenig would like to see settled on the race track. “We have had so many shows rained out that it seems only the right thing to do to keep trying to give our competitors every chance possible to settle their quests for a division championship. We have one more Thursday night before the Sunoco World Series of Speedway Racing and we hope that the weather will finally cooperate,” he said.

Grandstands will open at 4 PM with racing at 5:45 PM. The entire schedule of events for the October 6th date is posted on the Thompson web site. www.thompsonspeedway.com