Author: Jeff Pederson

Your fast track connection

Arenz stays course to secure IRA top 10s

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 28, 2025 –Travis Arenz battled through a handful of challenges to pile

Travis Arenz turned in two top-10 finishes in a Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series doubleheader at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, May 24 and 141 Speedway in Francis Creek, Wis. on Sunday, May 25. – Victory Imagery photo

up two more top-10 A-main showings during a doubleheader weekend of Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series action at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, May 24 and 141 Speedway in Francis Creek, Wis. on Sunday, May 25.

The 2021 and 2022 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing and Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car champ kicked off the Memorial Day Weekend twin bill by qualifying fifth in the 36-car field at Wilmot Raceway on May 24 with a lap of 12.409 seconds.

After starting on the pole of the second IRA heat race, Arenz cruised to his second heat race victory of the 2025 season to earn a dash position. However, Arenz failed to finish from the fourth starting spot in the first four-lap IRA dash.

The misfortune in the dash prompted the Travis Arenz Motorsports team to prepare the team’s backup car for the 30-lap Founders Night main event. Despite encountering less-than-ideal track conditions for passing, Arenz made the most of it as he blasted the cushion from the 23rd starting position to secure a solid eighth-place showing.

One night later, Arenz qualified 12th in the 30-car field at 141 Speedway. After starting on the pole, the Sheboygan Falls, Wis. driver earned his second heat race victory of the weekend to set himself up for his fifth dash appearance of the 2025 season.

After placing fourth in the first four-lap dash, Arenz rolled off from the seventh starting position for the 30-lap main event. Arenz held his own throughout the first half of the race before coming home seventh on a rubber-down one-lane track surface.

The IRA is off over the next two weeks. In the meantime, check the Travis Arenz Motorsports Facebook and X (Twitter) pages for schedule updates.

Arenz will return to IRA competition on Friday, June 13 at Jacksonville Speedway in Jacksonville, Illinois and Saturday, June 14 at I-55 Federated Auto Parts Raceway Park in Pevely, Missouri.

The 2025 Travis Arenz Motorsports sponsorship partners include Professional Plating Inc., Service One Transportation Inc., Don and Lynn Kiel, Oostburg Concrete, Wittkopp Funeral and Cremation Services, Pfeffer Trucking, Carbliss, Oostburg State Bank, Pallett Works, Jensen Sales and Service, Roth’s Auto Restoration, Sonntag Plumbing Inc., Amy Bruechert Realty, Lake Auto Glass, Fastenal, Hair Fellers Barbershop, Arenz Auto Detailing and Duehring’s Tax Service.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

Additional information on the Travis Arenz Motorsports team can be found by visiting the team’s Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.

Travis Arenz Motorsports Sponsor Showcase – Roth’s Auto Restoration

Travis Arenz Motorsports is pleased to have Roth’s Auto Restoration back as a sponsorship partner for the team’s sophomore season with the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series in 2025.

Located at 113 Balsam Road in Sheboygan Falls, Wis., Roth’s Auto Restoration has specialized in collision and auto body repair since 2008, providing exact color matching, paintless dent repair, car and motorcycle painting among many more services. Roth’s Auto Restoration service technicians are ASE-certified, Axalta paint-certified and PPG paint-certified to ensure the best match for all vehicles. In addition to auto body repair, Roth’s Auto Restoration also offers base mechanical services such as brake work, tires, wheel balances and oil changes, along with free estimates and insurance work.

To contact or learn more about Roth’s Auto Restoration, call 920-980-0098, email tompainter1@yahoo.com or visit www.rothsautorestoration.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970. 

Travis Arenz Motorsports
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 7
IRA Events – 7
A-Main Victories – 1
Podium Finishes – 2
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 3
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 5
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 5
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 6
Heat Race Victories – 3
B-Main Victories – 0
Dash Appearances – 5
Dash Victories – 2
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

May 28, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Hartmann shakes slow start, tallies two top 10s

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Austin Hartmann picked up a pair of top-10 A-main showings in Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series competition at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, May 24 and at 141 Speedway in Francis Creek, Wis. on Sunday, May 25. – HW Designs photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 28, 2025 – After encountering a laundry list of setbacks during the early portion of the 2025 Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association campaign, Austin Hartmann and the members of the 87A Hartmann Racing Team broke through in a big way to register a pair of top-10 A-main showings at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis on Saturday, May 24 and 141 Speedway in Francis Creek, Wis. on Sunday, May 25.

Hartmann kicked off the Memorial Day Weekend doubleheader by timing in eighth in the 36-car field with a time of 12.558 seconds at Wilmot Raceway. After placing third from the fourth starting spot in the fourth IRA heat race, the Plymouth, Wis. driver made his first dash appearance of the 2025 IRA season.

After finishing fifth in the second four-lap dash, Hartmann rolled off from the 10th starting position in the 30-lap A main. The 2020 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing and Midwest Sprint Car Association Rookie of the Year Award winner ran inside the top 10 throughout the main event en route to a solid 10th-place showing.

One night later, the 87A Hartmann Racing Team moved on to the 141 Speedway on Sunday, May 25 where Hartmann earned his second-career IRA fast qualifier award by topping the 30-car field with a quick lap of 12.231 seconds.

Following a fourth-place showing in the first IRA heat race, Hartmann finished third in the first four-lap IRA dash to secure the fifth starting spot in the 30-lap main event.

Austn Hartmann registered his second career Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association fast qualifier award at 141 Speedway in Francis Creek, Wis. on Sunday, May 25. – IRA Sprints photo

Despite challenging track conditions including a single-file, rubber-down surface in the closing stages of the race, Hartmann held strong inside the top 10 throughout the 30-lap headliner on the way to a season-best ninth-place finish for the 87A Hartmann Racing Team’s second top-10 showing of the 2025 campaign.

“Man, it felt good to put together a solid weekend of racing,” Hartmann said. “This car belongs to be running up front, and we proved that during the weekend. My team is relentless. I couldn’t be happier to give them a couple of good nights of racing. With some speed in our pocket, we’re ready to tackle ‘hell week’ with the High Limit and World of Outlaws series as we’re calling it in the state of Wisconsin. However, first up is our racing brat fry this Saturday, May 31 at Holler n Hills.”

After the team holds its 2025 brat fry at Holler n Hills Bar & Grill in Sheboygan on Saturday, May 31, the 87A Hartmann Racing Team will tackle five events in six days starting with the High Limit series on Tuesday, June 3 at 141 Speedway and Wednesday, June 5 at Red Cedar Speedway in Menomonie, Wis, followed by World of Outlaws events on Friday, June 6 at The Plymouth Dirt Track, Saturday, June 7 at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam and Sunday, June 8 at Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie.

87A Hartmann Racing 2025 sponsorship partners include Kristine Hartmann Pleasantview Realty, Shufflebotham Tree Service, The Dispensary, Metalcraft, Ludwig & Sons Trucking, Quasius Construction, Holler n’ Hills, Rich’s Truck & Auto Repair, Gibbsville Cheese, Hepfner Racing Products and Berryman Racing Shocks.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

Additional information on the 87A Hartmann Racing team can be found by visiting the team’s website www.team87a.com and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/87Ahartmannracing.

87A Hartmann Racing Sponsor Showcase – Holler n Hills Bar & Grill

The Austin Hartmann – 87A Hartmann Racing team is pleased to welcome back Holler n Hills Bar & Grill as a sponsorship partner for the 2025 season.

Located at 5837 South Business Drive in Sheboygan, Wis., offers a variety of sandwiches, entrees, appetizers and drink options. In addition, Holler n Hills features live music, karaoke and special events on selected evenings.

To contact Holler n Hills, call (920) 783-8005, email hollernhills3@gmail.com or visit the Holler n Hills Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/hollernhills/.

87A Hartmann Racing Sponsor Showcase – Kristine Hartmann of Pleasant View Realty

KRISTINE HARTMANN, REALTOR OF Pleasant View Realty, better known as “Every Race Fans Realtor,” has 25-plus years of experience selling real estate throughout Wisconsin.

Kristine’s passion for the sport of racing connects with her competitive drive and ambition as a realtor in the community.

Contact Kristine Hartmann with all your real estate needs and ask her about the special racing rates!

You can find her on Facebook @ KRISTINE HARTMANN, REALTOR.  Also, she can be found at the 87A trailer at any IRA race and would be happy to chat about racing and real estate!

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/PVRKRISTINE, call/text 920-980-5542 or email kristine@pleasantviewrealty.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

 

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
Upcoming Schedule

Saturday, May 31 – Team Brat Fry at Holller n Hills in Sheboygan, Wis.
Tuesday, June 3 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (High Limit)
Wednesday, June 4 – Red Cedar Speedway, Menomonie, Wis. (High Limit)
Friday, June 6 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (World of Outlaws)
Saturday, June 7 – Beaver Dam Raceway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (World of Outlaws)
Sunday, June 8 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (World of Outlaws)

 

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 6
IRA Events – 6
World of Outlaws Events – 0
High Limit Evens – 0
A-Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 2
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 2
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 4
B-Main Victories – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
Dash Appearances – 2
Dash Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 1

May 28, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Pokorski caps month with IRA, eyes PDTR 360 debut

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Alex Pokorski is set to make his 2025 season debut with the Akright Auto Plymouth Dirt Track Racing and MMW Industrial Supply Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Cars this Saturday, May 31 at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 27, 2025 – The Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team wrapped up the opening month of the 2025 Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series season with a doubleheader weekend of competition at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. and 141 Speedway in Francis Creek, Wis. on Saturday, May 24 and Sunday, May 25.

The fifth-year Sprint Car competition kicked off the Memorial Day Weekend twin bill by qualifying ninth in the 36-car field with a lap of 12.569 seconds on Founders Night at Wilmot Raceway on Saturday, May 24.

A sixth-place finish in the third IRA heat race gave Pokorski the second starting spot in the 12-lap B main. The West Bend, Wis. native then turned in a second-place B-main showing to earn a spot in the 30-lap main event.

After launching from the 22nd starting position, Pokorski drove a smooth and steady race on a challenging track surface to come home with a 20th place A-main finish.

One night later, the team traveled north where Alex made his first career appearance at the high-banked egg-shaped third-mile 141 Speedway clay oval.

After going out 29th in the 30-car qualifying field on a rapidly drying track surface, Pokorski turned in the 28th fastest qualifying lap with a time of 14.022 seconds.

The 2024 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing runner-up placed eighth in the first IRA heat race from the 10th starting position. He moved on to the 12-lap B main, where he placed seventh to fall just one spot short of gaining a berth in the 30-lap A main.

“We were able to find a baseline for 141,” Pokorski said. “Hopefully, we can use that to improve upon when we go back there in the future.”

With the IRA off, the team is planning to make its first appearance of the 2025 campaign with the Akright Auto Plymouth Dirt Track Racing-MMW Industrial Supply Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Cars this Saturday, May 31 for Autograph Night at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis.

Spectator gates open at 4:30 p.m. with qualifying at 5:30 p.m. and racing at 6 p.m.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team 2025 sponsorship partners are Akright Auto, Mulch Express of Wisconsin, GR8, Lynch Buick, GMC of West Bend, Petersen Septic Systems, Professional Plating, Wisconsin Bank and Trust, Ace Hardware of Kiel and Sheboygan Falls, Novak’s Service Center, Cedar Valley Hunt Club, Germaine/Paul Kaphingst & Susie and Pedal Down Promotions.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

For schedule updates and additional information on the Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team, check out Pokorski Motorsports on Facebook at https://facebook.com/pokorskimotorsports or visit www.pedaldownpromo.com.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team Sponsor Showcase – Professional Plating Inc.

Located at 705 Northway Drive in Brillion, Wis., Professional Plating Inc. was established in 1979 when Bob and Pat Endries, founders of Endries International, were looking for a dependable source of plating for the fasteners supplied to their customers. In May 1979, the zinc plating operation began with the barrel line being Professional Plating’s sole production area. In June 1983, the company expanded its zinc plating capabilities by purchasing a Cyclemaster rack line.

Over the past 46 years, Professional Plating has grown into one of the largest electroplaters in the Midwest, in addition to a large powder coating operation and an electrocoat facility.

Today, Professional Plating offers a wide range of services, including coating and plating, quality systems, trucking, shipping and packaging.

In addition, Professional Plating has been a five-time Products Finishing Top Shops Benchmarking Survey Award winner for both plating and powder coating, taking home the prestigious award each year that it has been offered.

For more information on the top-of-the-line services Professional Plating has to offer, call 920-756-2153, email larry.dietz@proplating.com or visit https://www.proplating.com.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team Sponsor Showcase – Akright Auto

Located at 106 North Bluebird Lane in Sheboygan Falls, Wis., Akright Auto has been a reliable source for auto parts since 1940.

With a highly trained staff of auto parts professionals, Akright Auto is well prepared to assist customers with vehicle repair needs with a wide assortment of affordable, high-quality auto parts available on-site. If a part is not available, Akright Auto offers next-day delivery services.

In addition, Akright Auto provides full auto salvage services and a 90-day standard warranty on all parts purchases.

Contact Akright Auto by phone at 920-467-4201, toll-free at 800-400-4201, via email at dakright12@gmail.com or visit www.akrightauto.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team
Upcoming Schedule

Saturday, May 31-Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360 Sprints)

*** Confirmed schedule updates will be posted on the Pokorski Motorsports Facebook page ***

Alex Pokorski
Akright Auto Racing Team
410 Sprint Car
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 7
Interstate Racing Association Events – 7
A-Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 2
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 5
B-Main Victories – 1
Heat Race Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0
Dash Appearances – 0
Dash Victories – 0

Alex Pokorski
Akright Auto Racing Team
360 Sprint Car Statistics

Total Events – 0
Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Events – 0
Midwest Sprint Car Association Events – 0
A-Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 0
B-Main Victories – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

May 27, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Arenz storms to Plymouth IRA triumph No. 2

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Travis Arenz collected his second career Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, May 17. – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 21, 2025 – Twenty-two months after recording his first career Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis., Travis Arenz found his way back to victory lane at his home track on Saturday, May 17.

The 18th-year racer opened the IRA’s first appearance of the 2025 season at The Plymouth Track by qualifying third in the 32-car field with a lap of 11.367 seconds.

The 2021 and 2022 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing and Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car champ then advanced from fourth to second in the third IRA heat race to earn a berth in the first IRA dash.

After drawing the pole for dash 1, Arenz outdueled 2010 Knoxville Nationals champion Tim Shaffer to claim his second dash victory of the season and earn the pole for the 30-lap Scott Semmelmann Memorial A main.

Arenz used a strong start to seize the lead on the opening lap and was never seriously challenged throughout the main event, building up a sizable 2½ second lead over Scotty Thiel before a caution flag on lap 23.

He again bolted away from Thiel on the restart en route to his second career IRA main event victory and first since July 1, 2023. It was also Arenz’s 72nd overall career main event triumph and 38th career A-main victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track spanning four different divisions – Outlaw Compact 4-Cylinder, B Mod (Sport Mod), 360 Sprint Car and 410 Sprint Car.

“In a perfect world, I would love for every night to go as it did at Plymouth,” Arenz said. “The car felt really good each time I was on the track. I knew I still needed to be smooth and consistent through the feature, and I knew that with starting on the pole, the only option I wanted was a win. Before the last caution, we had a 2.5-second lead over the car in second, which told me I was doing my job well. It felt so good to get a win for my team, sponsors and myself.”

One night later, Arenz ventured to the Angell Park Speedway for the second half of an IRA weekend doubleheader.

However, the results for the 25T Travis Arenz Motorsports Team car were decidedly different from the night before. After qualifying 13th in the 31-car field, Arenz finished sixth from the fifth starting spot in the first heat race to advance to the 30-lap headliner.

After firing off from the 16th starting spot, Arenz’s A main was over before it started as a multi-car melee along the backstretch on the opening lap left his car flipped on its side.

Arenz retreated to the work area to try to repair the car. However, he was unable to return to the track before the race resumed and was credited with a 22nd-place finish.

“Unfortunately, I didn’t have quite enough help as I would have liked at Angell Park for the night to go as smoothly as it did at Plymouth,” Arenz said. “It goes to show how quickly someone can go from winning a feature one night to wrecking the next. Luckily, it looks like I only damaged bolt-on components. We will go through the car and get it ready for this weekend at Wilmot and 141.”

The Travis Arenz Motorsports team will take part in a Memorial Day weekend of doubleheader IRA action starting with Founders Night at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, May 24 and concluding at 141 Speedway in Francis Creek. Wis. on Sunday, May 25.

Spectator gates open at 4 p.m., hot laps/qualifying begin at 5:45 p.m., and racing starts at 6:45 p.m. Saturday, May 24, at Wilmot Raceway.

Check the Bumper to Bumper IRA Sprints Facebook page for starting times at 141 Speedway on Sunday, May 25.

The 2025 Travis Arenz Motorsports sponsorship partners include Professional Plating Inc., Service One Transportation Inc., Don and Lynn Kiel, Oostburg Concrete, Wittkopp Funeral and Cremation Services, Pfeffer Trucking, Carbliss, Oostburg State Bank, Pallett Works, Jensen Sales and Service, Roth’s Auto Restoration, Sonntag Plumbing Inc., Amy Bruechert Realty, Lake Auto Glass, Fastenal, Hair Fellers Barbershop, Arenz Auto Detailing and Duehring’s Tax Service.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com.

Additional information on the Travis Arenz Motorsports team can be found by visiting the team’s Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.

Travis Arenz Motorsports Sponsor Showcase – Carbliss Hand-Crafted Premium Cocktails

Travis Arenz Motorsports is pleased to welcome back Carbliss Hand Crafted Premium Cocktails as a sponsorship partner for the team’s third full season with the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series in 2025.

Carbliss Hand-Crafted Premium Cocktails, featuring a mix of vodka, sparkling water and natural flavor extracts, is the creation of Adam and Amanda Kroener. Each Carbliss hand-crafted cocktail comes with no carbohydrates, no sugars and only 100 calories with a wide range of flavors available.

To view a list of retailers carrying Carbliss Hand-Crafted Premium Cocktails, visit https://drinkcarbliss.com/find-your-bliss/.

For more information on Carbliss, email marketing@drinkcarbliss.com or visit www.drinkcarbliss.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970. 

Travis Arenz Motorsports
2025 Upcoming Schedule

Saturday, May 24 – Wilmot Raceway, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, May 25 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA)

Travis Arenz Motorsports
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 5
IRA Events – 5
A-Main Victories – 1
Podium Finishes – 2
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 3
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 3
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 3
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 4
Heat Race Victories – 1
B-Main Victories – 0
Dash Appearances – 3
Dash Victories – 2
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

May 21, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Hartmann stays the course through motor woes

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Austin Hartmann is planning to compete in a pair of Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series events during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend at Wilmot Raceway on Saturday, May 24 and 141 Speedway on Sunday, May 25. -JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 21, 2025 – For the second consecutive week, the Austin Hartmann-87A Hartmann Racing team had to stare down engine problems, which cut short a planned doubleheader weekend of Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series competition.

On Saturday, May 17, Hartmann and the 87A Hartmann Racing Team returned to its home track – The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. – aiming to shake off the engine issues from the week before at Sycamore Speedway and jump-start an uneven beginning to the 2025 IRA campaign.

However, the mechanical gremlins were evident right from the start of the night as Hartmann was unable to register a qualifying lap due to lingering motor issues.

Following an engine swap, the Plymouth driver came home seventh after starting eighth in the third 8-lap IRA heat race. Hartmann moved up three positions from the ninth starting spot in the B main. However, he finished two spots out of an A-main transfer position with a sixth-place showing.

The persistent engine problems led the team to forgo the following night’s IRA event at Angell Park Speedway to regroup and plan its next steps in securing a new powerplant.

“It’s going to be a busy week, but we will have a fresh Kistler racing engine in for this upcoming weekend and from here on out,” Hartmann said. “Hopefully, the common valve train issues we have been having will stop now.”

The team is planning to be back in action with the IRA during a Memorial Day weekend of doubleheader IRA action starting with Founders Night at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, May 24 and concluding at 141 Speedway in Francis Creek. Wis. on Sunday, May 25.

Spectator gates open at 4 p.m., hot laps/qualifying begin at 5:45 p.m., and racing starts at 6:45 p.m. on Saturday, May 24, at Wilmot Raceway.

Check the Bumper to Bumper IRA Sprints Facebook page for starting times at 141 Speedway on Sunday, May 25.

87A Hartmann Racing 2025 sponsorship partners include Kristine Hartmann Pleasantview Realty, Shufflebotham Tree Service, The Dispensary, Metalcraft, Ludwig & Sons Trucking, Quasius Construction, Holler n’ Hills, Rich’s Truck & Auto Repair, Gibbsville Cheese, Hepfner Racing Products and Berryman Racing Shocks.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

Additional information on the 87A Hartmann Racing team can be found by visiting the team’s website www.team87a.com and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/87Ahartmannracing.

87A Hartmann Racing Sponsor Showcase – Holler n Hills Bar & Grill

The Austin Hartmann – 87A Hartmann Racing team is pleased to welcome back Holler n Hills Bar & Grill as a sponsorship partner for the 2025 season.

Located at 5837 South Business Drive in Sheboygan, Wis., offers a variety of sandwiches, entrees, appetizers and drink options. In addition, Holler n Hills features live music, karaoke and special events on selected evenings.

To contact Holler n Hills, call 920- 783-8005, email hollernhills3@gmail.com or visit the Holler n Hills Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/hollernhills/.

87A Hartmann Racing Sponsor Showcase – Kristine Hartmann of Pleasant View Realty

KRISTINE HARTMANN, REALTOR OF Pleasant View Realty, better known as “Every Race Fans Realtor,” has 25-plus years of experience selling real estate throughout Wisconsin.

Kristine’s passion for the sport of racing connects with her competitive drive and ambition as a realtor in the community.

Contact Kristine Hartmann with all your real estate needs and ask her about the special racing rates!

You can find her on Facebook @ KRISTINE HARTMANN, REALTOR.  Also, she can be found at the 87A trailer at any IRA race and would be happy to chat about racing and real estate!

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/PVRKRISTINE, call/text 920-980-5542 or email kristine@pleasantviewrealty.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
Upcoming Schedule

Saturday, May 24 – Wilmot Raceway, Wis. (IRA 410)
Sunday, May 25 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA 410)

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 4
IRA Events – 4
World of Outlaws Events – 0
A-Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 2
B Main Victories – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
Dash Appearances – 0
Dash Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

May 21, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Pokorski pogos through eventful IRA double dip

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Alex Pokorski racked up his first Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series race victory in the 12-lap B Main at Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie, Wis. on Sunday, May 18. – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 20, 2025 – For drivers and teams up for tackling one of the toughest disciplines of dirt track racing, the first season of 410 Sprint Car competition is typically filled with a wide array of challenges, frustrations and roadblocks sprinkled with breakthroughs, discoveries and successes.

Alex Pokorski and the Akright Auto Racing Team experienced all of that and more during a doubleheader weekend of Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association action at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, May 17 and Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie, Wis. on Sunday, May 18.

In his first appearance of the 2025 season at the team’s home track – The Plymouth Dirt Track – Pokorski opened the night by qualifying 21st in the 32-car field with a lap of 11.875 around the venerable third-mile clay oval.

He went on to place seventh after starting sixth in the first IRA heat race, which put him in the B main lineup. Needing to finish in the top four to earn a transfer to the 30-lap Scott Semmelmann Memorial A main, the 2024 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car division runner-up launched from the seventh starting spot in the B main. However, he fell one position short of transferring to the A-main by registering a fifth-place showing.

“I think we could’ve transferred directly to the A main at Plymouth, if I hadn’t let up on the first lap of the heat race for some radio interference that I thought was calling for a caution,” Pokorski said.

One night later, the team moved on to Angell Park Speedway, where Pokorski made his 410 Sprint Car debut with the IRA in May 2024.

The West Bend, Wis. native timed 19th in the 31-car field with a lap of 12.252 seconds. He then placed seventh in the first IRA heat to move to the B main. After starting on the outside of the front row and outpowering polesitter Bill Rose at the start, Pokorski led all 12 laps of the B main on the way to his first race win in IRA competition.

On the opening lap of the 30-lap A main, Pokorski was involved in a multi-car incident along the back stretch, which left his No. 4 Akright Auto machine with front wing damage and concluded the team’s night with a 20th place showing.

“Angell Park was fun until the A-main crash,” Pokorski said. “I’m not sure what happened in front of me there, but we broke off the rear mounting point for the nose wing. That ended our night. I enjoyed winning the B main. It was neat to share the front row with a driver like Bill Rose, who I watched race with the World of Outlaws growing up.”

The team is set to return to competition with a Memorial Day weekend of doubleheader IRA action starting with Founders Night at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, May 24 and concluding at 141 Speedway in Francis Creek. Wis. on Sunday, May 25.

Spectator gates open at 4 p.m., hot laps/qualifying begin at 5:45 p.m., and racing starts at 6:45 p.m. Saturday, May 24, at Wilmot Raceway.

Check the Bumper to Bumper IRA Sprints Facebook page for starting times at 141 Speedway on Sunday, May 25.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team 2025 sponsorship partners are Akright Auto, Mulch Express of Wisconsin, GR8, Lynch Buick, GMC of West Bend, Petersen Septic Systems, Professional Plating, Wisconsin Bank and Trust, Ace Hardware of Kiel and Sheboygan Falls, Novak’s Service Center, Cedar Valley Hunt Club, Germaine/Paul Kaphingst & Susie and Pedal Down Promotions.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

For schedule updates and additional information on the Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team, check out Pokorski Motorsports on Facebook at https://facebook.com/pokorskimotorsports or visit www.pedaldownpromo.com.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team Sponsor Showcase – Mulch Express of Wisconsin

The Alex Pokorski – Akright Auto Racing Team is excited to have Mulch Express of Wisconsin return as a sponsorship partner for the 2025 season.

Based in Newton, Wis., Mulch Express of Wisconsin was founded in 2000 out of a desire to help control the cost and efficiency of installing mulch, bark, soil and playground chips. Over the past 25 years, the specialty landscaping company has found its niche as the go-to mulching provider for municipalities, school districts, commercial businesses and residences throughout Northeastern Wisconsin. In addition, Mulch Express of Wisconsin has proudly served one of the top motorsports facilities in the world as the official mulch provider of Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wis., as well as providing mulch services at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis.

As a former Wisconsin-based 360 Sprint Car competitor, Mulch Express of Wisconsin owner Russ Wetenkamp is thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with Alex Pokorski and the Akright Auto Racing Team for the remainder of the 2023 Sprint Car campaign.

“We have a strong connection to Sprint Car racing after several years of competing in the 360 Sprint Car division with the number Gr8 car,” Wetenkamp said. “We feel Alex Pokorski is a good, up-and-coming 360 Sprint Car driver and a great individual to represent our Wisconsin-based specialty landscaping company.”

To contact or obtain additional information on Mulch Express of Wisconsin, call 920-726-4840, send an email to mulchexpressofwi@gmail.com or visit Mulch Express of Wisconsin on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team Sponsor Showcase – Akright Auto

Located at 106 North Bluebird Lane in Sheboygan Falls, Wis., Akright Auto has been a reliable source for auto parts since 1940.

With a highly trained staff of auto parts professionals, Akright Auto is well prepared to assist customers with vehicle repair needs with a wide assortment of affordable, high-quality auto parts available on-site. If a part is not available, Akright Auto offers next-day delivery services.

In addition, Akright Auto provides full auto salvage services and a 90-day standard warranty on all parts purchases.

Contact Akright Auto by phone at 920-467-4201, toll-free at 800-400-4201, via email at dakright12@gmail.com or visit www.akrightauto.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team
Upcoming Schedule

Saturday, May 24 – Wilmot Raceway, Wis. (IRA 410)
Sunday, May 25 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA 410)

*** Confirmed schedule updates will be posted on the Pokorski Motorsports Facebook page ***

Alex Pokorski
Akright Auto Racing Team
410 Sprint Car
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 5
Interstate Racing Association Events – 5
Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 2
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 4
B-Main Victories – 1
Heat Race Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0
Dash Appearances – 0
Dash Victories – 0

Alex Pokorski
Akright Auto Racing Team
360 Sprint Car Statistics

Total Events – 0
Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Events – 0
Midwest Sprint Car Association Events – 0
Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 0
B-Main Victories – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

May 20, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Thiel scores PDTR 360 Sprint Car victory

Arenz dominates IRA 410 Sprint Car main event

Heinert earns IRA Lightning Sprints triumph

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Scotty Thiel of Sheboygan collected his fifth career Akright Auto Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint A-main victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, May 17.  – JW’s Car and Raccing photos

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 17, 2025 – In a rare appearance in the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car division, Scotty Thiel of Sheboygan fended off an inspired effort from second-year driver Brady Portschy of Plymouth to claim the victory in the 25-lap Akright Auto-MMW Industrial Supply 360 Sprint Car A main at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, May 17.

Two-time Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car champion Travis Arenz of Sheboygan Falls scored a convincing flag-to-flag victory in the 30-lap Scott Semmelmann Memorial Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car main event.

Mark Heinert of Waukesha led all 20 laps to score the win in the 20-lap Interstate Racing Association Lightning Sprints A main.

Polesitter Bill Taylor of Boltonville grabbed the lead along the low groove on the opening lap of the 25-lap PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Car main event. At the same time, outside front row starter and 2024 IRA champ Scotty Thiel worked the cushion in second.

On lap 3, two-time and defending PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Car champion Ben Schmidt of Plymouth stopped along the backstretch to bring out the first of two caution flags. After a trip to the work area, Schmidt returned to restart at the rear of the field.

Following the restart, fourth starter Brady Portschy worked his way into third while Thiel used the high line to pressure Taylor for the top spot. On lap 9, Thiel used the outer groove to surge ahead exiting turn two.

Thiel pulled away from Taylor over the ensuing five laps before the second caution flag flew for the stalled car of 2008 PDTR champion Lance Fassbender of Burnett on lap 14.

On the restart, Portschy slipped past Taylor to seize second with two-time PDTR 360 Sprint Car champ Kurt Davis, who started ninth, following in third.

Travis Arenz of Sheboygan Falls posted his second career Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car main event win at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, May 17. – JW’s Car and Raccing photos

Two laps later, Portschy utilized the low groove to pull even with the high-riding Thiel. After catching the rear of the field on lap 17, Thiel skillfully sliced his way through slower traffic to build up a half-straightaway advantage over the final eight laps on the way to his fifth career PDTR and 15th career MSA A-main victory.

Portschy posted a career-best second place finish, Davis wound up third, sixth starter Billy Kreutz of Kiel placed fourth and Fassbender, who started 13th, bounced back after stopping on lap 14 to round out the top five.

“I was committed to the top and Brady [Portschy] ran a good race using the bottom,” Thiel said. “I was waiting for him to get to where I needed to change my line. I got a little nervous, but it worked out. I have to thank Randy Sippel for putting this car together. It ran great.”

Travis Arenz took the lead on the initial circuit of the 30-lap IRA Scott Semmelmann Memorial main event with outside front row starter Scotty Broty of Lonsdale, Minn. following in second.

Broty moved to within striking distance on lap 10 before the first of two caution flags was displayed for the slowing car of Waupaca’s Tyler Tischendorf on lap 11.

Following the restart, Arenz powered away from the rest of the field along the cushion as Thiel, who started fifth, worked his way into second. Arenz had built up a huge half-lap 2.5-second lead over Thiel when Max Guilford of Auckland, New Zealand drew the final caution flag when his machine stopped in turn four on lap 23.

Arenz again proved to be the class of the field when the race resumed as he bolted away to earn his second career IRA A-main victory. It was Arenz’s first main event victory since claiming his initial IRA win at The Plymouth Dirt Track on July 1, 2023.

Seven starter Blake Nimee of Yorkville, Ill. used a last lap pass to take second, Thiel wound up third, Kelby Watt of Adel, Iowa took fourth after starting sixth and 2012 Knoxville Nationals champion Tim Shaffer of Aliquippa, Pa., who started third, rallied from a first-lap encounter with the infield tires to finish fifth.

Mark Heinert of Waukesha was victorious in the 20-lap Interstate Racing Association Lightning Sprints division on Saturday, May 17 at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis.  – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

Outside front row starter Mark Heinert of Waukesha surged into the lead on the opening lap of the 25-lap IRA Lightning Sprints A main. Third starter Nick Petska of Spring Grove, Ill. moved in to challenge Heinert for the top spot on lap 12.

However, Heinert fended off Petska’s bid to pull away to the victory. Brian Strane Jr., who started fourth, slipped past Petska in the closing laps to take second, Petska was third, Tucker Richards of Bristol advanced from the ninth starting position to finish fourth and sixth starter Chad Stouthamer of Big Bend rounded out the top five.

Zach Daum of Pocahontas, Ill. posted the victory in the 12-lap IRA B main.

Brandon Berth of Cascade captured the 12-lap PDTR-MSA B main.

Kyle Schuett of Philo, Ill. earned the fast qualifier award in the IRA 410 Sprint Car division in 11.224 seconds.

Brandon Berth claimed fast qualifier honors in the PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Car division with a lap of 12.367.

The third event of the 2025 PDTR campaign, sponsored by Jensen Sales & Service, included 71 total entries, including 32 IRA 410 Sprint Cars, 27 PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Cars and 12 IRA Lightning Sprints.

After taking the Memorial Day weekend off, the next PDTR racing program on Saturday, May 31 is autograph night with kids receiving a free checkered. The night will feature the second appearance of the Seubert Calf Ranches Super Six Late Model Series.

The PDTR Akright Auto 360 Sprint Cars, Oostburg Automotive Grand Nationals and Sheboygan Flooring B Mods will also be featured.

Grandstand gates open at 4:30 p.m. with qualifying at 5:30 p.m. and racing to follow.

Weather information for all Plymouth Dirt Track Racing events will be posted on the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Facebook, X (Twitter) and Instagram pages, as well as the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing website – www.plymouthdtr.com.

The Plymouth Dirt Track at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds is located at 229 Fairview Drive in Plymouth, Wis.

For more information, visit www.plymouthdtr.com or check out Plymouth Dirt Track Racing on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

AKRIGHT AUTO PLYMOUTH DIRT TRACK RACING 360 SPRINT CARS

A Main (25 Laps): 1. 39S-Scotty Thiel [2]; 2. 55P-Brady Portschy [4]; 3. 6K-Kurt Davis [9]; 4. 3BK-Billy Kreutz [6]; 5. 7-Lance Fassbender [13]; 6. 14J-Joseph Hintz [11]; 7. 69-Bill Taylor [1]; 8. 63K-Kevin Karnitz [12]; 9. 09-Clayton Rossmann [19]; 10. 57-Tristan Furseth [3]; 11. 51-Chris Larson [14]; 12. 3-Justin Erickson  [20]; 13. 22B-Brandon Berth [17]; 14. 2-Chris Clayton [21]; 15. 24X-Eric Wilke [10]; 16. 1-Ben Schmidt [15]; 17. 68T-Tyler Davis [7]; 18. 10V-Nathan Crane [22]; 19. 69S-TJ Smith [8]; 20. 46-Steven Ruh [18]; 21. 33M-Josh Bilicki [16]; 22. 08-Katelyn Krebsbach [5]

B Main (12 Laps): 1. 22B-Brandon Berth[2]; 2. 46-Steven Ruh[1]; 3. 09-Clayton Rossmann[3]; 4. 3-Justin Erickson[6]; 5. 2-Christopher Clayton[7]; 6. 10V-Nathan Crane[9]; 7. 11-Tony Wondra[4]; 8. 12P-JJ Pagel[5]; 9. 30-Doug Wondra[8]; 10. 9C-Cole Stella[11]; 11. 7B-Nick Guernsey[10]

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 08-Katelyn Krebsbach[1]; 2. 39S-Scotty Thiel[2]; 3. 14J-Joseph Hintz[3]; 4. 6K-Kurt Davis[6]; 5. 22B-Brandon Berth[4]; 6. 3-Justin Erickson[5]; 7. 2-Christopher Clayton[7]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 55P-Brady Portschy[1]; 2. 57-Tristan Furseth[3]; 3. 1-Ben Schmidt[2]; 4. 7-Lance Fassbender[5]; 5. 09-Clayton Rossmann[4]; 6. 11-Tony Wondra[6]; 7. 30-Doug Wondra[7]

Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 69S-TJ Smith[2]; 2. 3BK-Billy Kreutz[4]; 3. 63K-Kevin Karnitz[3]; 4. 51-Chris Larson[5]; 5. 10V-Nathan Crane[1]; 6. 9C-Cole Stella[7]; 7. (DNF) 7B-Nick Guernsey[6]

Heat 4 (8 Laps): 1. 68T-Tyler Davis[2]; 2. 24X-Eric Wilke[1]; 3. 69-Bill Taylor[4]; 4. 33M-Josh Bilicki[3]; 5. 46-Steven Ruh[5]; 6. 12P-JJ Pagel[6]

Qualifying 1: 1. 22B-Brandon Berth, 12.671[2]; 2. 14J-Joseph Hintz, 12.683[4]; 3. 39S-Scotty Thiel, 12.731[6]; 4. 08-Katelyn Krebsbach, 12.789[5]; 5. 3-Justin Erickson, 12.807[7]; 6. 6K-Kurt Davis, 13.005[1]; 7. 2-Chris Clayton, 13.026 [3]

Qualifying 2: 1. 09-Clayton Rossmann, 12.689[7]; 2. 57-Tristan Furseth, 12.724[1]; 3. 1-Ben Schmidt, 12.821[4]; 4. 55P-Brady Portschy, 12.917[6]; 5. 7-Lance Fassbender, 12.948[2]; 6. 11-Tony Wondra, 12.958[3]; 7. 30-Doug Wondra, 13.062[5]

Qualifying 3: 1. 3BK-Billy Kreutz, 12.705[6]; 2. 63K-Kevin Karnitz, 12.888[3]; 3. 69S-TJ Smith, 13.076[4]; 4. 10V-Nathan Crane, 13.179[1]; 5. 51-Chris Larson, 13.185[2]; 6. 7B-Nick Guernsey, 13.413[5]; 7. 9C-Cole Stella, 13.437[7]

Qualifying 4: 1. 69-Bill Taylor, 12.935[1]; 2. 33M-Josh Bilicki, 13.160[5]; 3. 68T-Tyler Davis, 13.192[4]; 4. 24X-Eric Wilke, 13.238[3]; 5. 46-Steven Ruh, 13.275[2]; 6. 12P-JJ Pagel, 13.548[6]

BUMPER TO BUMPER INTERSTATE RACING ASSOCIATION 410 SPRINT CARS

A Main (30 Laps): 1. 25T-Travis Arenz [1]; 2. 79-Blake Nimee [7]; 3. 51-Scotty Thiel [5]; 4. 1K-Kelby Watt [6]; 5. 17GP-Tim Shaffer [3]; 6. 33-Scott Broty [2]; 7. 3N-Jake Neuman [13]; 8. 85J-Logan Julien [4]; 9. 65-Jordan Goldesberry [16]; 10. 9K-Kyle Schuett [8]; 11. 34-Sterling Cling [9]; 12. 9-Tommy Colburn [11]; 13. 16C-Max Guilford [20]; 14. 5D-Zach Daum [21]; 15. 96-Jake Blackhurst [10]; 16. 2W-Scott Neitzel [14]; 17. 25-Danny Schlafer [22]; 18. 12-Corbin Gurley [19]; 19. 4K-Kris Spitz [18]; 20. 10V-Matt VanderVere [17]; 21. 16TH-Kevin Newton [12]; 22. 21H-TJ Haddy [24]; 23. GR8-Will Gerrits [23]; 24. (DNF) 26-Tyler Tischendorf [15]

B Main (12 Laps): 1. 5D-Zach Daum[4]; 2. 25-Danny Schlafer[1]; 3. GR8-Will Gerrits[5]; 4. 21H-TJ Haddy[2]; 5. 4-Alex Pokorski[7]; 6. 87A-Austin Hartmann[9]; 7. 3BK-Billy Kreutz[3]; 8. 99-Tyler Brabant[6]; 9. 4D-Cruz Dickerson[10]; 10. 3B-Shelby Bosie[8]; 11. 24-Scott Conger[11]; 12. (DNS) 70W-Logan Wienke

Dash 1 (4 Laps): 1. 25T-Travis Arenz[1]; 2. 17GP-Tim Shaffer[2]; 3. 51-Scotty Thiel[5]; 4. 79-Blake Nimee[4]; 5. 34-Sterling Cling[3]

Dash 2 (4 Laps): 1. 33-Scott Broty[3]; 2. 85J-Logan Julien[2]; 3. 1K-Kelby Watt[5]; 4. 9K-Kyle Schuett[1]; 5. 96-Jake Blackhurst[4]

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 85J-Logan Julien[1]; 2. 9-Tommy Colburn[2]; 3. 9K-Kyle Schuett[4]; 4. 79-Blake Nimee[3]; 5. 4K-Kris Spitz[5]; 6. GR8-Will Gerrits[7]; 7. 4-Alex Pokorski[6]; 8. 4D-Cruz Dickerson[8]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 1K-Kelby Watt[1]; 2. 51-Scotty Thiel[4]; 3. 2W-Scott Neitzel[6]; 4. 26-Tyler Tischendorf[2]; 5. 33-Scott Broty[3]; 6. 3BK-Billy Kreutz[5]; 7. 3B-Shelby Bosie[7]; 8. 24-Scott Conger[8]

Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 96-Jake Blackhurst[2]; 2. 25T-Travis Arenz[4]; 3. 34-Sterling Cling[3]; 4. 65-Jordan Goldesberry[6]; 5. 16C-Max Guilford[7]; 6. 5D-Zach Daum[5]; 7. 87A-Austin Hartmann[8]; 8. 21H-TJ Haddy[1]

Heat 4 (8 Laps): 1. 17GP-Tim Shaffer[2]; 2. 16TH-Kevin Newton[1]; 3. 3N-Jake Neuman[3]; 4. 10V-Matt VanderVere[6]; 5. 12-Corbin Gurley[5]; 6. 99-Tyler Brabant[7]; 7. 25-Danny Schlafer[4]; 8. (DNS) 70W-Logan Wienke

Qualifying: 1. 9K-Kyle Schuett, 11.224[5]; 2. 51-Scotty Thiel, 11.318[8]; 3. 25T-Travis Arenz, 11.367[18]; 4. 25-Danny Schlafer, 11.376[10]; 5. 79-Blake Nimee, 11.499[16]; 6. 33-Scott Broty, 11.503[6]; 7. 34-Sterling Cling, 11.517[28]; 8. 3N-Jake Neuman, 11.532[19]; 9. 9-Tommy Colburn, 11.561[13]; 10. 26-Tyler Tischendorf, 11.562[11]; 11. 96-Jake Blackhurst, 11.568[23]; 12. 17GP-Tim Shaffer, 11.579[29]; 13. 85J-Logan Julien, 11.584[3]; 14. 1K-Kelby Watt, 11.636[21]; 15. 21H-TJ Haddy, 11.658[12]; 16. 16TH-Kevin Newton, 11.792[14]; 17. 4K-Kris Spitz, 11.801[7]; 18. 3BK-Billy Kreutz, 11.804[22]; 19. 5D-Zach Daum, 11.828[31]; 20. 12-Corbin Gurley, 11.837[15]; 21. 4-Alex Pokorski, 11.875[27]; 22. 2W-Scott Neitzel, 11.880[24]; 23. 65-Jordan Goldesberry, 11.940[26]; 24. 10V-Matt VanderVere, 11.945[20]; 25. GR8-Will Gerrits, 12.016[32]; 26. 3B-Shelby Bosie, 12.017[4]; 27. 16C-Max Guilford, 12.041[30]; 28. 99-Tyler Brabant, 12.064[1]; 29. 4D-Cruz Dickerson, 12.067[25]; 30. 24-Scott Conger, 12.190 [17]; 31. (DNF) 87A-Austin Hartmann 32. (DNF) 70W-Logan Wienke

INTERSTATE RACING ASSOCIATION LIGHTNING SPRINTS

A Main (20 Laps): 1. 55-Mark Heinert [2]; 2. 22S-Brian Strane Jr. [4]; 3. 18-Nick Petska [3]; 4. 13-Tucker Richards [9]; 5. 5S-Chad Stouthamer [6]; 6. 74-Tim Brannam [1]; 7. 11-Derek Fortier [5]; 8. 18Q-Chris Quillman [7]; 9. 63-Jacob Irwin [10]; 10. 74M-Max Brannam [12]; 11. 01-Ron Brannam [8]; 12. (DNF) 11S-Colin Sivia [11]

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 55-Mark Heinert [3]; 2. 22S-Brian Strane Jr[4]; 3. 11-Derek Fortier[2]; 4. 5S-Chad Stouthamer[1]; 5. 01-Ron Brannam[5]; 6. 74M-Max Brannam[6]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 18-Nick Petska[4]; 2. 18Q-Chris Quillman[1]; 3. 13-Tucker Richards[5]; 4. 74-Tim Brannam[3]; 5. 63-Jacob Irwin[6]; 6. 11S-Colin Sivia[2]

Qualifying: 1. 22S-Brian Strane Jr, 12.919[12]; 2. 18-Nick Petska, 13.019[10]; 3. 55-Mark Heinert, 13.263[2]; 4. 74-Tim Brannam, 13.401[7]; 5. 11-Derek Fortier, 13.482[9]; 6. 11S-Colin Sivia, 13.526[11]; 7. 5S-Chad Stouthamer, 13.585[6]; 8. 18Q-Chris Quillman, 13.640[8]; 9. 01-Ron Brannam, 13.764[1]; 10. 13-Tucker Richards, 13.791[5]; 11. 74M-Max Brannam, 13.851[3]; 12. 63-Jacob Irwin, 14.372[4]

May 18, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Misfortune finds Arenz at Sycamore, IRA tripleheader awaits

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Travis Arenz rallied from an early mishap to record a 16th place finish in a Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association main event at Sycamore Speedway in Maple Park, Ill. on Saturday, May 10. – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 14, 2025 – During his first two seasons of full-time Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series competition, Sycamore Speedway proved to be a natural fit for Travis Arenz with two runner-up showings behind the wheel of his Travis Arenz Motorsports Team 25T car.

The third time wasn’t quite the charm for Arenz at the Maple Park, Ill. three-eighths-mile semi-banked clay oval on Saturday, May 10, as an early mishap in the 30-lap A-main relegated the 18th year driver to a 16th place showing.

Arenz qualified 11th in the 32-car field with a lap of 13.965 seconds. The 2021 and 2022 Akright Auto Midwest Sprint Car Association and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car champion started and finished third to earn a berth in the 30-lap main event.

The Sheboygan Falls, Wis. driver started the 30-lap main event from the 12th starting spot and was settling into the race when he misjudged a turn and was forced to retreat to the work area on lap 5.

After restarting the race at the rear of the field, Arenz weaved through the pack to come home with a respectable 16th-place finish.

“The first half of the night actually went decently with what we had to work with for a track,” Arenz said. “I was bummed we couldn’t make the dash to work on the car for the feature. I got a little too anxious and clipped the infield tire in turns one and two in the feature, and bent the drag link and tie rod. We were able to pass a decent amount of cars back after restarting in the tail. The results don’t show that we actually had a very good, balanced car overall.”

The 25T squad is now set for an IRA tripleheader weekend starting Friday, May 16, for the Harry Neitzel Tribute race at the Dodge County Fairgrounds in Beaver Dam, Wis.

Pit gates open at 3 p.m., and spectator gates open at 5 p.m. On-track action begins at 6 p.m., and opening ceremonies are scheduled for 7:15 p.m.

On Saturday, May 17, the team will head to its home track – The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. – with the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Cars.

Grandstand gates open at 4:30 p.m. with on-track action anticipated at 5:30 p.m.

The tripleheader weekend concludes with IRA competition at Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie, Wis. on Sunday, May 18.

Pit gates open at 1:30 p.m. with spectator gates opening at 4 p.m. Hot laps begin at 5 p.m. with racing to follow.

The 2025 Travis Arenz Motorsports sponsorship partners include Professional Plating Inc., Service One Transportation Inc., Don and Lynn Kiel, Oostburg Concrete, Wittkopp Funeral and Cremation Services, Pfeffer Trucking, Carbliss, Oostburg State Bank, PalletWorks, Jensen Sales and Service, Roth’s Auto Restoration, Sonntag Plumbing Inc., Amy Bruechert Realty, Lake Auto Glass, Fastenal, Hair Fellers Barbershop, Arenz Auto Detailing and Duehring’s Tax Service.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

Additional information on the Travis Arenz Motorsports team can be found by visiting the team’s Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.

Travis Arenz Motorsports Sponsor Showcase – PalletWorks LLC

Travis Arenz Motorsports is pleased to have PalletWorks LLC on board as a sponsorship partner for the team’s 2025 campaign with the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series.

Located at N5826 County Road M in Plymouth, Wis., PalletWorks LLC is a wood container and pallet manufacturing company, specializing in packing and crating materials.

To contact PalletWorks LLC, call 920-467-2600.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970. 

 

Travis Arenz Motorsports
2025 Upcoming Schedule

Friday, May 16 – Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 17 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, May 18 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 24 – Wilmot Raceway, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, May 25 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA)

Travis Arenz Motorsports
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 3
IRA Events – 3
A-Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 1
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 2
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 2
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 2
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 3
Heat Race Victories – 1
B-Main Victories – 0
Dash Appearances – 2
Dash Victories – 1
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

May 14, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

87A Hartmann Racing preps for IRA trifecta

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Austin Hartmann is slated to compete in a Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series tripleheader weekend at the Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway in Beaver Dam, Wis. (Friday, May 16), The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. (Saturday, May 17) and Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie, Wis. (Sunday, May 18). -HW Designs photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 14, 2025 – With the first three events of the 2025 Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series planted in the rearview mirror, the 87A Hartmann Racing team is ready to pick up the pace with Austin Hartmann at the controls for a Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series tripleheader Friday, May 16 through Sunday, May 18.

On Saturday, May 10, the team checked into Sycamore Speedway in Maple Park, Ill., for the third round of the 2025 IRA campaign. Hartmann began the night by qualifying 25th in the 32-car field with a lap of 15.131 seconds. From there, the fifth-year Sprint Car pilot started and finished seventh in the first 8-lap IRA heat race to miss out on an A-main transfer spot.

Finding himself on the outside looking into the 24-car A-main field, the 2020 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing and Midwest Sprint Car Association Rookie of the Year Award winner mounted a spirited attempt to qualify for the main event in the B main.

The Plymouth, Wis. driver rolled off ninth in the 10-lap B main and advanced to within sight of a transfer spot as the laps wound down. Despite a highly determined effort, Hartmann ended up fifth when the checkered flag flew to place one spot short of securing an A-main berth.

“There isn’t much we can take away from Sycamore,” Hartmann said. “We made a solid effort in the B main racing against darts with no fletchings. It’s best to have a short-term memory in this sport. We’ll see what we can do starting at Dodge County and heading through a busy three-race weekend.”

The team will compete in an IRA tripleheader weekend starting Friday, May 16, for the Harry Neitzel Tribute race at the Dodge County Fairgrounds in Beaver Dam, Wis.

Pit gates open at 3 p.m., and spectator gates open at 5 p.m. On-track action begins at 6 p.m., and opening ceremonies are scheduled for 7:15 p.m.

On Saturday, May 17, the team will head to its hometown track – The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. – with the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Cars.

Grandstand gates open at 4:30 p.m. with on-track action anticipated at 5:30 p.m.

The tripleheader weekend concludes with IRA competition at Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie, Wis., on Sunday, May 18.

Pit gates open at 1:30 p.m. with spectator gates opening at 4 p.m. Hot laps begin at 5 p.m. with racing to follow.

87A Hartmann Racing 2025 sponsorship partners include Kristine Hartmann Pleasantview Realty, Shufflebotham Tree Service, The Dispensary, Metalcraft, Ludwig & Sons Trucking, Quasius Construction, Holler n’ Hills, Rich’s Truck & Auto Repair, Gibbsville Cheese, Hepfner Racing Products and Berryman Racing Shocks.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

Additional information on the 87A Hartmann Racing team can be found by visiting the team’s website www.team87a.com and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/87Ahartmannracing.

87A Hartmann Racing Sponsor Showcase – Rich’s Truck and Auto Repair

The Austin Hartmann-87A Hartmann Racing team is pleased to have Rich’s Truck and Auto Repair on board as a sponsorship partner for the 2025 racing season.

Located at W4544 Lakepark Drive in Fond du Lac, Wis., Rich’s Truck and Auto Repair has provided quality auto repair and service to Fond du Lac, Taycheedah, St. Peter, Malone, Lake Winnebago, North Fond du Lac and East Central Wisconsin for over 60 years with a special emphasis on diesel truck and engine repair.

The current owners have worked hard to maintain the reputation Rich worked hard to establish before his passing by servicing all vehicle makes and models, including diesel vehicles and sprinter vans.

Rich’s Truck and Auto Repair’s ASE-certified technicians are committed to the best interest of customers and will complete auto and truck repairs promptly to get vehicle owners back on the road as quickly as possible. In addition, the front-of-house team is professional, friendly and committed to making the experiences of customers pleasant and comforting.

A brand new building has helped the staff of Rich’s Truck and Auto Repair take care of customers with grace and superior service while allowing auto mechanics to do car machining when they are unable to replace a part.

Other service offerings include free bumper-to-bumper comprehensive courtesy inspection with every auto repair service, a 3-year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty through NAPA, loaner vehicles, shuttle service and financing through two trusted sources.

To contact Rich’s Truck and Auto Repair, call 920-922-7171, email richstruckandautorepair@gmail.com or visit www.richstruckandauto.com.

87A Hartmann Racing Sponsor Showcase – Kristine Hartmann of Pleasant View Realty

KRISTINE HARTMANN, REALTOR OF Pleasant View Realty, better known as “Every Race Fans Realtor,” has 25-plus years of experience selling real estate throughout Wisconsin.

Kristine’s passion for the sport of racing connects with her competitive drive and ambition as a realtor in the community.

Contact Kristine Hartmann with all your real estate needs and ask her about the special racing rates!

You can find her on Facebook @ KRISTINE HARTMANN, REALTOR.  Also, she can be found at the 87A trailer at any IRA race and would be happy to chat about racing and real estate!

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/PVRKRISTINE, call/text 920-980-5542 or email kristine@pleasantviewrealty.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
Upcoming Schedule

Friday, May 16 – Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 17 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, May 18 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 24 – Wilmot Raceway, Wis. (IRA 410)
Sunday, May 25 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA 410)

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 3
IRA Events – 3
World of Outlaws Events – 0
A-Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 2
B-Main Victories – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
Dash Appearances – 0
Dash Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

May 14, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Pokorski pushes through Sycamore bad luck, eyes IRA tripleheader

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Alex Pokorski notched an 18th-placed showing in the 30-lap Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series A-main at Sycamore Speedway in Maple Park, Ill. on Saturday, May 10. – RC Custom Design photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 13, 2025 – In their first Sprint Car racing venture outside of the state of Wisconsin, Alex Pokorski and the members of the Akright Auto Racing Team overcame a mechanical issue to pull out a respectable showing in Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association competition at Sycamore Speedway in Maple Park, Ill. on Saturday, May 10.

In the team’s first-ever appearance at the three-eighths-mile semi-banked clay oval, Pokorski opened the night with an impressive ninth-place qualifying effort with the 32-car field with a lap of 13.776 seconds.

Before the start of the first 8-lap IRA heat race, Pokorski suffered a part malfunction on his No. 4 Akright Auto machine, which put him behind the 8-ball for the rest of the evening.

After stopping on the track and receiving repairs in the work area, the West Bend, Wis. native started the race at the rear of the field and finished eighth to miss out on an automatic berth into the A-main field.

Pokorski lined up second in the 10-lap IRA B main and held on to place fourth to grab the final A-main transfer spot. He then started 24th in the 30-lap A main, moving up to 17th in the first 10 laps of the event. Pokorski fell back to 20th on lap 15 and held on over the final 15 laps of the race to record an 18th-place showing.

“We had a bolt break that held the left side radius rod to the chassis as we were on the track, ready to line up for the heat race,” Pokorski said. “That was disappointing because the track wasn’t very receptive to good racing in the heats. It derailed our night a bit. But, I did have fun racing in the first half of the feature.”

The team is now focused on an IRA tripleheader starting Friday, May 16, for the Harry Neitzel Tribute race at the Dodge County Fairgrounds in Beaver Dam, Wis.

Pit gates open at 3 p.m. , and spectator gates open at 5 p.m. On-track action begins at 6 p.m. , and opening ceremonies are scheduled for 7:15 p.m.

On Saturday, May 17, the team will head to The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis., with the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Cars.

Grandstand gates open at 4:30 p.m. with on-track action anticipated at 5:30 p.m.

The tripleheader weekend concludes with IRA competition at Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie, Wis., on Sunday, May 18.

Pit gates open at 1:30 p.m. with spectator gates opening at 4 p.m. Hot laps begin at 5 p.m. with racing to follow.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team 2025 sponsorship partners are Akright Auto, Mulch Express of Wisconsin, GR8, Lynch Buick, GMC of West Bend, Professional Plating, Wisconsin Bank and Trust, Ace Hardware of Kiel and Sheboygan Falls, Novak’s Service Center, Cedar Valley Hunt Club, Germaine/Paul Kaphingst & Susie and Pedal Down Promotions.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

For schedule updates and additional information on the Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team, check out Pokorski Motorsports on Facebook at https://facebook.com/pokorskimotorsports or visit www.pedaldownpromo.com.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team Sponsor Showcase – Lynch Buick GMC West Bend

The Alex Pokorski – Akright Auto Racing Team is excited to have Lynch Buick GMC West Bend back as a sponsorship partner for the 2025 season.

Located at 2275 South Main St. in West Bend, Wis., Lynch Buick GMC West Bend offers new and quality used vehicles, as well as full parts and service departments.

To contact Lynch Buick GMC West Bend, call 262-338-2235 or visit www.lynchbuickgmcofwestbend.com.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team Sponsor Showcase – Akright Auto

Located at 106 North Bluebird Lane in Sheboygan Falls, Wis., Akright Auto has been a reliable source for auto parts since 1940.

With a highly trained staff of auto parts professionals, Akright Auto is well prepared to assist customers with vehicle repair needs with a wide assortment of affordable, high-quality auto parts available on-site. If a part is not available, Akright Auto offers next-day delivery services.

In addition, Akright Auto provides full auto salvage services and a 90-day standard warranty on all parts purchases.

Contact Akright Auto by phone at 920-467-4201, toll-free at 800-400-4201, via email at dakright12@gmail.com or visit www.akrightauto.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team
Upcoming Schedule

Friday, May 16 – Dodge County Fairgrounds, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA 410)
Saturday, May 17 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA 410)
Sunday, May 18 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (IRA 410)
Saturday, May 24 – Wilmot Raceway, Wis. (IRA 410)
Sunday, May 25 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA 410)

*** Confirmed schedule updates will be posted on the Pokorski Motorsports Facebook page ***

Alex Pokorski
Akright Auto Racing Team
410 Sprint Car
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 3
Interstate Racing Association Events – 3
Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 2
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 3
B-Main Victories – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0
Dash Appearances – 0
Dash Victories – 0

Alex Pokorski
Akright Auto Racing Team
360 Sprint Car Statistics

Total Events – 0
Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Events – 0
Midwest Sprint Car Association Events – 0
Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 0
B-Main Victories – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

May 13, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Mullen earns maiden PDTR Super Six Late Model Series triumph

Hintz, Gilles, Long pay victory lane visits

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Mike Mullen of Seymour claimed his first career Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Late Model A-main victory as part of the 2025 Super Six Late Model Series at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, May 10 – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 10, 2025 – Mike Mullen of Seymour held off Mitch McGrath and Nick Anvelink, two of the most accomplished Dirt Late Model competitors in the state of Wisconsin, to record his first career 106.5 The Buzz Late Model A-main victory as part of the 2025 Seubert Calf Ranches Super Six Late Model Series season opener Saturday, May 10 at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis.

In other A-main action, 15-year-old Joseph Hintz of Burnett rolled to victory in the 25-lap Akright Auto 360 Sprint Car A main.

Seven-time Plymouth track champion Brian Gilles of Plymouth collected the victory in the 25-lap Oostburg Auto Grand National main event, which also served as the debut event of the 2025 Dirt Devil Grand National Series.

Spencer Long of Sheboygan Falls claimed the victory in the 25-lap Sheboygan Flooring B Mod headliner.

Mitch McGrath, who claimed the 2014 PDTR Late Model championship, jumped into the lead on the opening lap from the pole position as Mike Mullen, who started third, slotted into second place with fourth starter Nick Anvelink following close behind in third.

On lap 5, Mullen closed the gap on McGrath to mount a charge for the lead. One lap later, Mullen dove low to seize the lead from the cushion-pounding McGrath in turn three.

Following the first of two caution flags for a spin on lap 9, Anvelink used a strong restart to wrestle second away from McGrath before a second caution flag was displayed on lap 11 for a stalled car.

McGrath countered Anvelink’s move by sweeping past the eight-time Dirt Kings Late Model Tour champion on lap 12. As the leaders encountered slower traffic throughout the second half of the race, Mullen skillfully weaved his way around the lapped cars to stretch his advantage over McGrath to a full straightaway in the closing laps on the way to his first career Late Model A-main victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track.

McGrath had to settle for second, Anvelink wound up third, five-time PDTR Late Model champ Justin Schmidt of Cleveland took fourth after starting seventh and 10th starter Taylor Scheffler of Waukesha completed the top five.

Two-time PDTR 360 Sprint Car champ Kurt Davis of South Milwaukee stormed into the lead on lap 1 of the PDTR 360 Sprint Car main event while fourth starter Joseph Hintz mounted immediate pressure for the lead.

Joseph Hintz of Burnett racked up his Plymouth Dirt Track Racing-Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, May 10 – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

After running the outside groove in the early going, Hintz used a low move in turn four to claim the lead from Davis on lap 6. Four laps later, Hintz caught the rear of the field, which gave Davis the chance to cut the gap.

Following tight racing for the top spot between Hintz, a second-year teenage upstart, and Davis, a seasoned veteran in his 40th season of competition, the first of two caution flags appeared on lap 15 for a single-car spin.

After the restart, eighth starter Brandon Berth of Cascade used a stellar outside move in turn two to vault his way from fifth to third in the running order. On lap 16, the hard-charging Berth swept past Davis to claim second.

Berth reeled in Hintz to move within striking distance on lap 19, but a caution for another single-car spin slowed the pace on lap 21.

After a single-file restart, Hintz held strong at the front of the field en route to his second career PDTR-Midwest Sprint Car Association A-main victory.

Berth wound up second, Davis took third, three-time PDTR 360 Sprint Car champ Donny Goeden of Kewaskum bolted up from the 15th starting position to come home fourth and Kevin Karnitz of West Bend started and finished fifth.

Brian Gilles of Plymouth raced to a win in the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Grand National headliner, which also featured the 2025 PDTR Dirt Devil Grand National Series at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, May 10 – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

Jack Wiroll of Sheboygan led the first three laps of the Grand National main event from the pole. On lap 4, two-time PDTR Grand National champ Brian Gilles of Plymouth, who started second, secured the lead by ducking under Wiroll in turn four.

Gilles then proceeded to build up a sizable full-straightaway cushion over Wiroll at the halfway portion of the race.

Former PDTR Grand National champions Tyler Kulow of Sheboygan, who started sixth, and Will Sorce of Franklin, who started 16th, worked their way into second and third, respectively on lap 14.

On the following lap, Sorce snuck past Kulow to earn the runner-up spot. Meanwhile, Gilles drove away to claim his seventh career PDTR Grand National A-main win.

Sorce placed second, Kulow wound up third, Jeff Steenbergen of Johnson Creek raced up from the 10th starting spot to finish fourth and Wiroll completed the top five.

Polesitter Spencer Long grabbed the lead on the opening lap with third starter Matt Urban of Milwaukee taking over the runner-up spot in the B Mod main event. On lap 2, three-time PDTR B Mod champion Tim Warner of Malone claimed third before passing Urban to seize second on lap 4.

Warner quickly closed on Long on lap 6. However, Long held strong along the extreme low groove of the 75-year-old third-mile semi-banked clay oval. Just as the leaders caught slower traffic, the lone caution flag was displayed on lap 14 for a single-car spin in turn two.

Spencer Long of Sheboygan Falls scored his secord career A-main victory in the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing B Mod main event at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, May 10 – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

Following the restart, Warner clipped an infield tire, which damaged the front end of his car and forced him to retire from the race. With Long still out ahead, 10th starter Vince Jung of Iron Ridge slipped past Urban to seize second on lap 18.

Jung gradually cut the gap as Long negotiated slower traffic in the last five laps. Jung mounted an inspired charge on the closing circuit, which came up just one car length short at the checkered flag.

Long held on to secure his second career PDTR B Mod win. Jung had to settle for second, Urban took third, fourth starter Barrett Hummelmeier of Beaver Dam started and finished fourth and 11th starter Geoff Zdroik of Rubicon rounded out the top five.

B-main victories went to Shane Wenninger of Kewaskum subbing for Doug Wondra (360 Sprint Car), Jake Richards of Neshkoro (Grand National 1), Ryan Minster of Sheboygan (Grand National 2) and Travis Kleindl of Beaver Dam (B Mod).

Taylor Scheffler claimed top qualifying honors in the Late Model division with a lap of 13.546 seconds.

Kevin Karnitz and two-time Eastern Wisconsin Stock Car Winged Super Modified champ Billy Kreutz of Kiel tied for the top qualifying time in the 360 Sprint Car division with identical laps of 12.818 seconds.

The second event of the 2025 PDTR campaign, sponsored by the city of Sheboygan Falls Fire Department, drew another strong field of 110 total entries, including 39 Dirt Devil Series Grand Nationals, 29 B Mods, 25 360 Sprint Cars and 17 Super Six Late Model Series cars.

The next PDTR racing program on Saturday, May 17, will feature the first 2025 appearance of the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series.

The PDTR 360 Sprint Cars and IRA Lightning Sprints will also be in action.

Grandstand gates open at 4:30 p.m. with on-track action anticipated at 5:30 p.m.

Weather information for all Plymouth Dirt Track Racing events will be posted on the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Facebook, X (Twitter) and Instagram pages, as well as the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing website – www.plymouthdtr.com.

The Plymouth Dirt Track at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds is located at 229 Fairview Drive in Plymouth, Wis.

For more information, visit www.plymouthdtr.com or check out Plymouth Dirt Track Racing on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

106.5 THE BUZZ SUPER SIX LATE MODEL SERIES

A Main (30 Laps): 1. 99M-Mike Mullen [3]; 2. 74-Mitch McGrath [1]; 3. 15-Nick Anvelink [4]; 4. 97-Justin Schmidt [7]; 5. 10S-Taylor Scheffler [10]; 6. 89-Brad Mueller [8]; 7. D1-Turk Letizia [11]; 8. 70-Justin Ritchie [6]; 9. 9Z-Jayme Zidar [2]; 10. 55B-Joe Bongiorno [15]; 11. 99-Sawyer Specht [12]; 12. 77-Bill Edler [5]; 13. 8R-Bill Rezutek [14]; 14. 10-Paul Parker [9]; 15. 56-Jordan Barkholtz [13]; 16. (DNS) 19J-Justin Green; 17. (DNS) 24S-Jayden Schmidt

Heat 1 (10 Laps): 1. 99M-Mike Mullen[1]; 2. 77-Bill Edler[3]; 3. 10S-Taylor Scheffler[2]; 4. 10-Paul Parker[5]; 5. 55B-Joe Bongiorno[4]; 6. (DNS) 19J-Justin Green

Heat 2 (10 Laps): 1. 74-Mitch McGrath[2]; 2. 15-Nick Anvelink[3]; 3. 70-Justin Ritchie[5]; 4. D1-Turk Letizia[4]; 5. 56-Jordan Barkholtz[6]; 6. (DNF) 24S-Jayden Schmidt[1]

Heat 3 (10 Laps): 1. 9Z-Jayme Zidar[2]; 2. 97-Justin Schmidt[1]; 3. 89-Brad Mueller[3]; 4. 99-Sawyer Specht[4]; 5. 8R-Bill Rezutek[5]

Qualifying 1: 1. 10S-Taylor Scheffler, 13.546[3]; 2. 19J-Justin Green, 14.144[6]; 3. 77-Bill Edler, 14.241[2]; 4. 55B-Joe Bongiorno, 14.300[4]; 5. 10-Paul Parker, 14.446[1]; 6. 99M-Mike Mullen, 1:38.890[5]

Qualifying 2: 1. 15-Nick Anvelink, 13.709[2]; 2. 74-Mitch McGrath, 13.823[1]; 3. 24S-Jayden Schmidt, 13.965[4]; 4. D1-Turk Letizia, 14.037[5]; 5. 70-Justin Ritchie, 14.144[3]; 6. 56-Jordan Barkholtz, 14.176[6]

Qualifying 3: 1. 89-Brad Mueller, 13.690[1]; 2. 9Z-Jayme Zidar, 13.854[3]; 3. 97-Justin Schmidt, 14.177[4]; 4. 99-Sawyer Specht, 14.191[2]; 5. 8R-Bill Rezutek, 14.381[5]

AKRIGHT AUTO PLYMOUTH DIRT TRACK RACING 360 SPRINT CARS

A Main (25 Laps): 1. 14J-Joseph Hintz [4]; 2. 22B-Brandon Berth [8]; 3. 6K-Kurt Davis [1]; 4. 27G-Donny Goeden [15]; 5. 63K-Kevin Karnitz [6]; 6. 3-Justin Erickson [3]; 7. 3BK-Billy Kreutz [13]; 8. 08-Katelyn Krebsbach [7]; 9. 1-Ben Schmidt [11]; 10. 51-Chris Larson [2]; 11. 24X-Eric Wilke [9]; 12. 30-Shane Wenninger [17]; 13. 7-Lance Fassbender [14]; 14. 69-Bill Taylor [12]; 15. 69S-TJ Smith [18]; 16. 55P-Brady Portschy [19]; 17. 2-Chris Clayton [5]; 18. 11-Tony Wondra [22]; 19. 57-Tristan Furseth [21]; 20. 46-Steven Ruh [16]; 21. 12P-JJ Pagel [10]; 22. 68T-Tyler Davis [20]

B Main (12 Laps): 1. 30-Doug Wondra[1]; 2. 69S-TJ Smith[3]; 3. 55P-Brady Portschy[2]; 4. 68T-Tyler Davis[7]; 5. 57-Tristan Furseth[8]; 6. 11-Tony Wondra[4]; 7. 98M-Ron Malec[9]; 8. (DNS) 55S-Ryan Sawusch; 9. (DNS) 5-Kevin Seidler

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 63K-Kevin Karnitz[4]; 2. 24X-Eric Wilke[1]; 3. 69-Bill Taylor[3]; 4. 55P-Brady Portschy[2]; 5. 57-Tristan Furseth[7]; 6. 98M-Ron Malec[6]; 7. (DNF) 68T-Tyler Davis[5]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 3-Justin Erickson[1]; 2. 6K-Kurt Davis[2]; 3. 1-Ben Schmidt[3]; 4. 3BK-Billy Kreutz[4]; 5. 46-Steven Ruh[5]; 6. 5-Kevin Seidler[6]

Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 14J-Joseph Hintz[2]; 2. 12P-JJ Pagel[1]; 3. 08-Katelyn Krebsbach[4]; 4. 7-Lance Fassbender[3]; 5. 30-Shane Wenninger[5]; 6. 55S-Ryan Sawusch[6]

Heat 4 (8 Laps): 1. 2-Chris Clayton[2]; 2. 22B-Brandon Berth[1]; 3. 51-Chris Larson[5]; 4. 27G-Donny Goeden[3]; 5. 69S-TJ Smith[4]; 6. 11-Tony Wondra[6]

Qualifying 1: 1. 63K-Kevin Karnitz, 12.818[5]; 2. 69-Bill Taylor, 13.100[3]; 3. 55P-Brady Portschy, 13.435[6]; 4. 24X-Eric Wilke, 13.510[1]; 5. 68T-Tyler Davis, 13.531[4]; 6. 98M-Ron Malec, 13.872[7]; 7. (DNS) 57-Tristan Furseth

Qualifying 2: 1. 3BK-Billy Kreutz, 12.818[3]; 2. 1-Ben Schmidt, 12.880[4]; 3. 6K-Kurt Davis, 13.221[2]; 4. 3-Justin Erickson, 13.494[1]; 5. 46-Steven Ruh, 13.546[5]; 6. 5-Kevin Seidler, 14.637[6]

Qualifying 3: 1. 08-Katelyn Krebsbach, 12.984[2]; 2. 7-Lance Fassbender, 13.010[1]; 3. 14J-Joseph Hintz, 13.246[4]; 4. 12P-JJ Pagel, 13.709[3]; 5. 30-Shane Wenninger, 13.769[6]; 6. 55S-Ryan Sawusch, 14.741[5]

Qualifying 4: 1. 69S-TJ Smith, 12.947[5]; 2. 27G-Donny Goeden, 13.043[1]; 3. 2-Chris Clayton, 13.112[3]; 4. 22B-Brandon Berth, 13.279[2]; 5. 51-Chris Larson, 13.341[6]; 6. 11-Tony Wondra, 13.478[4]

OOSTBURG AUTOMOTIVE DIRT DEVIL GRAND NATIONAL SERIES

A Main (25 Laps): 1. 89-Brian Gilles [2]; 2. 14X-Will Sorce [16]; 3. 24K-Tyler Kulow [6]; 4. 62S-Jeff Steenbergen [10]; 5. 52W-Jack Wiroll [1]; 6. 72E-Chad Espen [5]; 7. 53B-Brad Weiss [3]; 8. 5M-Jeff Muehlbauer [8]; 9. 11R-Kenny Richards [18]; 10. 80-Luke Scholten [9]; 11. 6-Dick Hed [7]; 12. 37-Ryan Minster [12]; 13. 53W-Dustin Weiss [19]; 14. 82H-Matt Loehr [20]; 15. 13-Josh Pierce [14]; 16. 93-Mavrick Ruh [13]; 17. 8R-Jake Richards [11]; 18. 5R-Nate Ruh [15]; 19. 42-Jason Juech [4]; 20. 4-Darryl Traber [17]

B Main 1 (12 Laps): 1. 8R-Jake Richards[3]; 2. 93-Mavrick Ruh[1]; 3. 5R-Nate Ruh[2]; 4. 4-Darryl Traber[11]; 5. 53W-Dustin Weiss[7]; 6. 25P-Jonathan Persha[5]; 7. 54-Austin Yancey[12]; 8. 19P-Marshall Plate[15]; 9. 79B-Arianna Beattie[10]; 10. 53T-Tanner Lorenz[14]; 11. 22-Randy Dent[9]; 12. 15-Derek Kaat[4]; 13. 21-Philip Meyerhofer[8]; 14. 11-Dylan May[6]; 15. 55W-Shawn Wagner[13]

B Main 2 (12 Laps): 1. 37-Ryan Minster[1]; 2. 13-Josh Pierce[2]; 3. 14X-Will Sorce[5]; 4. 11R-Kenny Richards[9]; 5. 82H-Matt Loehr[3]; 6. 10R-Jeff Richards[13]; 7. 23-Scott Kafka[4]; 8. 95-Donny Kulow[8]; 9. 58-Dave Holm[7]; 10. 17X-Mark Kuhfuss[11]; 11. (DNF) 45-Trent Bogart[14]; 12. (DNF) 25M-Darren Meyer[6]; 13. (DNS) 27-Greg Goschey; 14. (DNS) 3-Jim Wirtz

Heat 1: 1. 52W-Jack Wiroll[1]; 2. 80-Luke Scholten[5]; 3. 93-Mavrick Ruh[3]; 4. 82H-Matt Loehr[7]; 5. 11-Dylan May[2]; 6. 95-Donny Kulow[4]; 7. 4-Darryl Traber[6]; 8. 45-Trent Bogart[8]

Heat 2: 1. 62S-Jeff Steenbergen[5]; 2. 89-Brian Gilles[1]; 3. 37-Ryan Minster[4]; 4. 15-Derek Kaat[3]; 5. 25M-Darren Meyer[2]; 6. 22-Randy Dent[7]; 7. 17X-Mark Kuhfuss[6]; 8. 19P-Marshall Plate[8]

Heat 3: 1. 53B-Brad Weiss[1]; 2. 42-Jason Juech[2]; 3. 5R-Nate Ruh[3]; 4. 23-Scott Kafka[4]; 5. 53W-Dustin Weiss[5]; 6. 11R-Kenny Richards[7]; 7. 54-Austin Yancey[6]; 8. 55W-Shawn Wagner[8]

Heat 4: 1. 72E-Chad Espen[2]; 2. 6-Dick Hed[3]; 3. 13-Josh Pierce[4]; 4. 25P-Jonathan Persha[1]; 5. 58-Dave Holm[6]; 6. 79B-Arianna Beattie[7]; 7. 53T-Tanner Lorenz[8]; 8. (DNF) 10R-Jeff Richards[5]

Heat 5: 1. 24K-Tyler Kulow[2]; 2. 5M-Jeff Muehlbauer[3]; 3. 8R-Jake Richards[5]; 4. 14X-Will Sorce[4]; 5. 21-Philip Meyerhofer[6]; 6. 27-Greg Goschey[1]; 7. (DNF) 3-Jim Wirtz[7]

SHEBOYGAN FLOORING B MODS

A Main (25 Laps): 1. 59S-Spencer Long [1]; 2. 67-Vince Jung [10]; 3. 48-Matt Urban [3]; 4. 33H-Barrett Hummelmeier [4]; 5. 18Z-Geoff Zdroik [11]; 6. 73-Rory Welch [5]; 7. 66-Steve Lorier [7]; 8. 3Z-Austin Zdroik [14]; 9. 19-Parker Glander [2]; 10. 17-Brandon Knepprath [9]; 11. 26-Ryan Pafford [17]; 12. 69-Travis Kleindl [13]; 13. 99-Jordan Gracyalny [18]; 14. 85B-Kevin Braaksma [16]; 15. 4JR-Joel Seegert Jr. [15]; 16. 29S-Scott Quarnstrom [19]; 17. XV-Don Marquart [20]; 18. 89-Logan Brass [6]; 19. 03W-Tim Warner [8]; 20. 6Z-Jim Zdroik [12]

B Main (12 Laps): 1. 69-Travis Kleindl[1]; 2. 3Z-Austin Zdroik[2]; 3. 4JR-Joel Seegert Jr[3]; 4. 85B-Kevin Braaksma[5]; 5. 26-Ryan Pafford[14]; 6. 99-Jordan Gracyalny[4]; 7. 29S-Scott Quarnstrom[11]; 8. XV-Don Marquart[7]; 9. 11B-Brad Buckman[6]; 10. 0-Bill Shavlik[13]; 11. 23S-Scott Ellis[10]; 12. (DNF) 18-Miranda Sandholm[12]; 13. (DNF) 31W-Kelan Wolfe[9]; 14. (DNF) 12D-Chris Gilson[8]; 15. (DNS) 12T-Tim Thrun; 16. (DNS) 1X-Ryan Spoehr; 17. (DNS) 55K-Kyle Dimmick

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 66-Steve Lorier[5]; 2. 33H-Barrett Hummelmeier[4]; 3. 18Z-Geoff Zdroik[6]; 4. 69-Travis Kleindl[3]; 5. 85B-Kevin Braaksma[1]; 6. 31W-Kelan Wolfe[2]; 7. 0-Bill Shavlik[8]; 8. 55K-Kyle Dimmick[7]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 48-Matt Urban[3]; 2. 03W-Tim Warner[5]; 3. 6Z-Jim Zdroik[6]; 4. 3Z-Austin Zdroik[4]; 5. 11B-Brad Buckman[2]; 6. 23S-Scott Ellis[7]; 7. (DNF) 26-Ryan Pafford[1]

Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 59S-Spencer Long[2]; 2. 73-Rory Welch[4]; 3. 17-Brandon Knepprath[5]; 4. 4JR-Joel Seegert Jr[3]; 5. XV-Don Marquart[1]; 6. 29S-Scott Quarnstrom[6]; 7. (DNF) 12T-Tim Thrun[7]

Heat 4 (8 Laps): 1. 89-Logan Brass[3]; 2. 67-Vince Jung[4]; 3. 19-Parker Glander[2]; 4. 99-Jordan Gracyalny[7]; 5. 12D-Chris Gilson[6]; 6. 18-Miranda Sandholm[5]; 7. 1X-Ryan Spoehr[1]

May 11, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

87A Hartmann Racing Team displays grit in IRA Wilmot action

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Austin Hartmann overcame engine woes to come away with a 19th-place showing in Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series competition at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, May 3. – HW Designs photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 7, 2025 – Austin Hartmann and the members of the 87A Hartmann Racing Team persevered through a challenge-filled evening of Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car season competition to pull out a respectable showing in the Dick Colburn Classic at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, May 3.

Hartmann opened the night on a good note by qualifying 12th overall in the large 37-car field with a lap of 13.185 seconds. However, mechanical issues struck the team just as Hartmann was set to push off for the first 8-lap IRA heat race. After changing an MSD box in the work area and pushing off for the race, Hartmann pulled back into the pits without turning a single lap of heat race action.

After diagnosing a motor issue, the members of the 87A Hartmann Racing Team went about changing an engine for the B main. Stellar crew work allowed Hartmann to return to the track and start from the pole in the 12-lap B Main where he wound up second to advance to the Dick Colbun Classic main event.

With a fresh motor under the hood, Hartmann rolled to a 19th place finish in the 30-lap main event.

“It was another night where we struggled,” Hartmann said. “On a good note, we have the balance of the car right, so we are going in the right direction. On the downside, we hurt an engine before the heat race. But the team was able to get it changed in time to get us back out for the B main. It’s been a rough start to the season. One of these races has to go our way soon.”

This Saturday, May 10, Austin Hartmann and the members of the 87A Hartmann Racing Team are scheduled to return to Sycamore Speedway in Maple Park, Ill. with the IRA 410 Sprint Car Seres. The Badger Midgets and IRA Lightning Sprints are also on the card.

87A Hartmann Racing 2025 sponsorship partners include Kristine Hartmann Pleasantview Realty, Shufflebotham Tree Service, The Dispensary, Metalcraft, Ludwig & Sons Trucking, Quasius Construction, Holler n’ Hills, Rich’s Truck & Auto Repair, Gibbsville Cheese, Hepfner Racing Products and Berryman Racing Shocks.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

Additional information on the 87A Hartmann Racing team can be found by visiting the team’s website www.team87a.com and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/87Ahartmannracing.

87A Hartmann Racing Sponsor Showcase – TheD8Dispensary

The Austin Hartmann – 87A Hartmann Racing team is pleased to have TheD8Dispensary back as a sponsorship partner for the 2025 season.

Located at 2113 South Business Drive in Sheboygan, Wis., TheD8Dispensary is a medical cannabis dispensary offering pure Delta-8 THC, Delta-10 THC and THCP products with the largest variety in the surrounding area. TheD8Dispensary features the most compassionate and knowledgeable staff in the industry, which aims to provide assistance and answer questions about the natural benefits of medical cannabis dispensary products.

To contact TheD8Dispensary, call (920) 395-2904 or visit https://www.thed8dispensary.com/sheboygan.

87A Hartmann Racing Sponsor Showcase – Kristine Hartmann of Pleasant View Realty

KRISTINE HARTMANN, REALTOR OF Pleasant View Realty, better known as “Every Race Fans Realtor,” has 25-plus years of experience selling real estate throughout Wisconsin.

Kristine’s passion for the sport of racing connects with her competitive drive and ambition as a realtor in the community.

Contact Kristine Hartmann with all your real estate needs and ask her about the special racing rates!

You can find her on Facebook @ KRISTINE HARTMANN, REALTOR.  Also, she can be found at the 87A trailer at any IRA race and would be happy to chat about racing and real estate!

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/PVRKRISTINE, call/text 920-980-5542 or email kristine@pleasantviewrealty.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

 

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
Upcoming Schedule

Saturday, May 10 – Sycamore Speedway, Sycamore, Ill. (IRA)
Friday, May 16 – Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 17 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, May 18 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 24 – Wilmot Raceway, Wis. (IRA 410)
Sunday, May 25 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA 410)

 

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 2
IRA Events – 2
World of Outlaws Events – 0
A Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A Main Finishes – 0
Top 20 A Main Finishes – 2
B Main Victories – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
Dash Appearances – 0
Dash Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

May 7, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Arenz tallies IRA top five at Wilmot Raceway

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Travis Arenz turned in a fifth-place finish in the 30-lap Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series event at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, May 3. – HW Designs photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 7, 2025 – Travis Arenz and the Travis Arenz Motorsports Team continued their hot start to the 2025 Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series campaign with a strong fifth-place showing in the Dick Colburn Classic on Saturday, May 3 at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis.

The 2021 and 2022 Midwest Sprint Car Association and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car champion bolted out the gate by qualifying second overall in IRA qualifying with a lap of 12.899 seconds.

Arenz started fourth in the second IRA heat race before moving up a spot to record a third-place finish and punch a ticket into the 30-lap main event.

His qualifying and heat race efforts brought Arenz his second consecutive IRA dash appearance, during which he started second and raced to victory in the second four-lap dash to earn the outside front row starting spot in the 30-lap Dick Colburn Classic main event.

The A main proved to be a bit challenging for Arenz as he dropped to fourth after Paul Nienhiser snuck past on lap 11. Following the second of two caution flags, Arenz settled into fifth place, which is where he finished the race to record his second consecutive top-five A-main showing.

“The night went decently,” Arenz said. “We had speed, but not enough at the end to get the job done. I’m happy with the night. But I’m not satisfied.”

This Saturday, May 10, the Travis Arenz Motorsports Team will head back to Sycamore Speedway in Maple Park, Ill. with the IRA 410 Sprint Car Series. The Badger Midgets and IRA Lightning Sprints are also on the card.

Arenz heads into an IRA event at Sycamore Speedway facility this Saturday, May 10 as the runner-up in the last two IRA events at the three-eighths mile semi-banked clay oval track facility in 2023 and 2024.

“I enjoy Sycamore,” Arenz said. “We’ve had two second-place finishes there in the last two years.”  It would be nice to leave that place on top instead of runner-up this year.”

The 2025 Travis Arenz Motorsports sponsorship partners include Professional Plating Inc., Service One Transportation Inc., Don and Lynn Kiel, Oostburg Concrete, Wittkopp Funeral and Cremation Services, Pfeffer Trucking, Carbliss, Oostburg State Bank, Pallett Works, Jensen Sales and Service, Roth’s Auto Restoration, Sonntag Plumbing Inc., Amy Bruechert Realty, Lake Auto Glass, Fastenal, Hair Fellers Barbershop, Arenz Auto Detailing and Duehring’s Tax Service.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

Additional information on the Travis Arenz Motorsports team can be found by visiting the team’s Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.

Travis Arenz Motorsports Sponsor Showcase – Service One Transportation

Located at N5761 County Road M in Plymouth, Wis., Service One Transportation has been a proud supporter of Travis Arenz Motorsports since the team moved into the 360 Sprint Car division in 2018.

Service One Transportation opened its doors in 1997 when Dan Flagstad, Sr. decided to venture out on his own, following a distinguished career in transportation sales. Starting with a single driver and truck, Dan grew the business by providing unsurpassed service to the customers and living by the creed of “doing whatever it takes to get the job done for the customer.”

The customer-first philosophy continues today with current President and Owner Dan Flagstad, Jr., along with his partner, Mike Myszewski, who serves as vice president of operations and logistics. Under Dan’s leadership, Service One Transportation has experienced the innovation of a new generation, while retaining the customer and family-first philosophy started by Dan Sr.

Today, Service One has grown into a full-service logistics and transportation company with a large portfolio of services, including 53-foot dry van, dry bulk with rail car transport, blanket wrap transport and warehousing. Service One can handle all truckload, volume LTL and expedited shipments to 48 states and all Canadian provinces.

For a personalized transportation quote, contact Service One Transportation by phone at 1-888-988-3344 or 920-467-4793, email at dispatch@serviceonetrans.com or visit https://www.serviceonetransportation.com/.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970. 

Travis Arenz Motorsports
2025 Upcoming Schedule

Saturday, May 10 – Sycamore Speedway, Sycamore, Ill. (IRA)
Friday, May 16 – Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 17 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, May 18 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 24 – Wilmot Raceway, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, May 25 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA)

Travis Arenz Motorsports
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 2
IRA Events – 2
A Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 1
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 2
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 2
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 2
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 2
Heat Race Victories – 1
B-Main Victories – 0
Dash Appearances – 2
Dash Victories – 1
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

May 7, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Pokorski posts IRA best at Wilmot, Illinois trip awaits

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Alex Pokorski claimed a 13th-place finish at a Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series event at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, May 3. – HW Designs photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 6, 2025 – Alex Pokorski’s knack for compiling smooth, consistent results was on full display in the second round of the 2025 Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series season as he steered his No. 4 Akright Auto Racing Team machine to an IRA career-best 13th place showing in the Dick Colburn Classic Saturday, May 3 at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis.

In his sixth career start in the seat of a 410 Sprint Car, the West Bend native qualified 15th overall in the stout 37-car field with a lap of 13.370 seconds around the three-eighths-mile semi-banked clay oval.

The sixth-year Sprint Car campaigner was scheduled to start third in the third 8-lap IRA heat race. However, when the pole car was penalized for jumping the initial start, Pokorski moved up a row to lead the field to the green flag from the pole. He fell back to third on the opening lap and held the spot for the duration to earn a transfer spot into the 30-lap Dick Colburn Classic A main.

After firing off from the 14th starting spot in the 24-car field, Pokorski used a strong start to move up to 11th when the first of two yellow flags was displayed on lap 4. On the restart, the 2023 Midwest Sprint Car Association and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Most Improved 360 Sprint Car Driver Award winner surrendered a pair of positions to move into 13th place.

Pokorski endured another caution flag on lap 20 to secure an IRA career-best 13th place A-main finish.

“It was fun racing with the guys around 11th to 14th in the A main,” Pokorski said. “The car felt stable and was better than when we were there last year with the 410.”

This Saturday, May 10, Alex Pokorski and the members of the Akright Auto Racing Team will venture south of the state border into Illinois for their debut appearance at Sycamore Speedway in Maple Park, Ill. with the IRA 410 Sprint Car Series. The Badger Midgets and IRA Lightning Sprints are also on the card.

“This will be the first time I’ve raced out of the state of Wisconsin in a Sprint Car,” Pokorski said. “I haven’t done that since my karting days.”

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team 2025 sponsorship partners are Akright Auto, Mulch Express of Wisconsin, GR8, Lynch Buick, GMC of West Bend, Professional Plating, Wisconsin Bank and Trust, Ace Hardware of Kiel and Sheboygan Falls, Novak’s Service Center, Cedar Valley Hunt Club, Germaine/Paul Kaphingst & Susie and Pedal Down Promotions.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

For schedule updates and additional information on the Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team, check out Pokorski Motorsports on Facebook at https://facebook.com/pokorskimotorsports or visit www.pedaldownpromo.com.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team Sponsor Showcase – Novak’s Service Center

Alex Pokorski and the Akright Auto Racing Team would like to acknowledge the support of long-time sponsor Novak’s Service Center of Manitowoc, which is celebrating its 53rd year in business in 2025.

Novak’s Service Center is a locally owned, second-generation, family-owned, five-bay auto repair center, which has been serving customers in the Lakeshore area since 1972.

Novak’s Service Center offers comprehensive auto repair services, including 4 x 4 services, brakes, car and truck care, domestic cars and trucks, electrical services, electronic services, engine and transmission, engine maintenance, expired warranty care, general service, heating and cooling services, import cars and trucks, quick lube services, tires, towing, transmission and under-car services.

Located at 1320 Washington St. in Manitowoc, Novak’s Service Center is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

To schedule an appointment, call 920-684-5737 or visit www.novaks1320.com.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team Sponsor Showcase – Akright Auto

Located at 106 North Bluebird Lane in Sheboygan Falls, Wis., Akright Auto has been a reliable source for auto parts since 1940.

With a highly trained staff of auto parts professionals, Akright Auto is well prepared to assist customers with vehicle repair needs with a wide assortment of affordable, high-quality auto parts available on-site. If a part is not available, Akright Auto offers next-day delivery services.

In addition, Akright Auto provides full auto salvage services and a 90-day standard warranty on all parts purchases.

Contact Akright Auto by phone at 920-467-4201, toll-free at 800-400-4201, via email at dakright12@gmail.com or visit www.akrightauto.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team
Upcoming Schedule

Saturday, May 10 – Sycamore Speedway, Maple Park, Illinois (IRA 410)
Friday, May 16 – Dodge County Fairgrounds, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA 410)
Saturday, May 17 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA 410)
Sunday, May 18 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (IRA 410)
Saturday, May 24 – Wilmot Raceway, Wis. (IRA 410)
Sunday, May 25 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA 410)

*** Confirmed schedule updates will be posted on the Pokorski Motorsports Facebook page ***

Alex Pokorski
Akright Auto Racing Team
410 Sprint Car
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 2
Interstate Racing Association Events – 2
A Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 2
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 2
B Main Victories – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0
Dash Appearances – 0
Dash Victories – 0

Alex Pokorski
Akright Auto Racing Team
360 Sprint Car Statistics

Total Events – 0
Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Events – 0
Midwest Sprint Car Association Events – 0
A Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 0
B Main Victories – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

May 6, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Hartmann ramps up 2025 IRA campaign at Beaver Dam, eyes Wilmot  

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Austin Hartmann started the 2025 Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series season at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Saturday, April 26. – HW Designs photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) April 30, 2025 – After an offseason filled with anticipation, the 2025 season went off and running for Austin Hartmann and the members of the 87A Hartmann Racing team in the Glenn Hepfner Memorial event at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Saturday, April 26.

The sixth-year Sprint Car competitor kicked off the 2025 campaign by qualifying 15th in the 29-car field with a lap of 11.946 seconds on the high-banked third-mile clay oval.

The 2020 Midwest Sprint Car Association and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car Rookie of the Year Award winner started fifth and came home fourth in the third 8-lap IRA heat race to earn a spot in the 30-lap main event.

After securing the 13th starting spot in the 25-lap A main, the Plymouth, Wis. resident hovered around the top 15 throughout the race before racking up a 17th-place finish.

“It wasn’t a good opening night for us,” Hartmann said. “We struggled with the balance of the car and found some issues. We hope to improve this week at Wilmot.”

87A Hartmann Racing 2025 sponsorship partners include Kristine Hartmann Pleasantview Realty, Shufflebotham Tree Service, The Dispensary, Metalcraft, Ludwig & Sons Trucking, Quasius Construction, Holler n’ Hills, Rich’s Truck & Auto Repair, Gibbsville Cheese, Hepfner Racing Products and Berryman Racing Shocks.

The 87A Hartmann Racing team will head to the IRA Dick Colburn Classic Open Wheel Spectacular at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, May 3.

Non-Wing Crate Sprint Cars, Winged Crate Sprint Cars and Lightning Sprints are also on the card.

Pit gates open at 2 p.m., and spectator gates open at 4 p.m. Hot laps will begin at 5:45 p.m., and racing will begin at 6:45 p.m.

In the event of rain, Sunday, May 4 is the listed rain date.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

Additional information on the 87A Hartmann Racing team can be found by visiting the team’s website www.team87a.com and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/87Ahartmannracing.

87A Hartmann Racing Sponsor Showcase – Shufflebotham Tree Service

Located in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin, Shufflebotham Tree Service specializes in tree trimming, tree removal, brush chipping, lot clearing, stump grinding and snow removal with fully insured service and free estimates.

Contact Andrew Shufflebotham and his highly skilled team, which has accumulated over 20 years of experience in the field, for your next tree trimming, removal or clean-up project by calling 920-627-3849 or checking out the Shufflebotham Tree Service Facebook page.

87A Hartmann Racing Sponsor Showcase – Kristine Hartmann of Pleasant View Realty

KRISTINE HARTMANN, REALTOR OF Pleasant View Realty, better known as “Every Race Fans Realtor,” has 25-plus years of experience selling real estate throughout Wisconsin.

Kristine’s passion for the sport of racing connects with her competitive drive and ambition as a realtor in the community.

Contact Kristine Hartmann with all your real estate needs and ask her about the special racing rates!

You can find her on Facebook @ KRISTINE HARTMANN, REALTOR.  Also, she can be found at the 87A trailer at any IRA race and would be happy to chat about racing and real estate!

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/PVRKRISTINE, call/text 920-980-5542 or email kristine@pleasantviewrealty.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

 

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
Upcoming Schedule

Saturday, May 3 – Wilmot Raceway, Wilmot, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 10 – Sycamore Speedway, Sycamore, Ill. (IRA)
Friday, May 16 – Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 17 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, May 18 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 24 – Wilmot Raceway, Wis. (IRA 410)
Sunday, May 25 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA 410)

 

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 1
IRA Events – 1
World of Outlaws Events – 0
A-Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 1
B-Main Victories – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
Dash Appearances – 0
Dash Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

April 30, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Arenz rockets to IRA runner-up at Beaver Dam Raceway

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Travis Arenz posted a strong second place finish in the 2025 Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series season opener at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Saturday, April 26. – HW Designs photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) April 30, 2025 – Travis Arenz opened his 18th overall season of competition and third full-time campaign with the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series in stellar fashion by guiding his 25T Travis Arenz Motorsports team entry to an impressive second place showing in the Glenn Hepfner Memorial at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Saturday, April 26.

The Sheboygan Falls, Wis. driver turned in a strong seventh-place qualifying run in the 29-car field with a lap of 11.812 seconds on the high-banked third-mile clay oval.

The 2021 and 2022 Midwest Sprint Car Association and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car champion turned an outside front row starting position in the first 8-lap IRA heat race into his first heat race victory of the 2025 campaign.

Arenz then started on the pole in the second 4-lap IRA dash before coming home second to gain the fourth starting spot in the 30-lap headliner.

A wide, slick, multi-groove racing surface proved to be right in Arenz’s wheelhouse as he battled among the lead group of Jake Neuman, Blake Nimee and Scotty Thiel throughout the race. After dueling back and forth with Nimee and Thiel inside the top 10, Arenz finally seized control of the runner-up spot in the closing laps and held on to nail down a second place showing behind race winner Jake Neuman.

“Overall, I’m pleased with how the night went,” Arenz said. “I qualified decent, won my heat race and drew the pole for the dash. That’s pretty much my ideal night. I was happy with how the track progressed throughout the night. It made for good multi-lane racing for the feature. I felt like the car was really good. I can definitely see the 25T being in victory lane this season. To do that, I think I need to be a little more aggressive in traffic than I was on Saturday night.”

Next up for the Travis Arenz Motorsports team is the IRA Dick Colburn Classic Open Wheel Spectacular at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, May 3.

Non-Wing Crate Sprint Cars, Winged Crate Sprint Cars and Lightning Sprints are also on the card.

Pit gates open at 2 p.m., and spectator gates open at 4 p.m. Hot laps will begin at 5:45 p.m., and racing will begin at 6:45 p.m.

In the event of rain, Sunday, May 4 is the listed rain date.

The 2025 Travis Arenz Motorsports sponsorship partners include Professional Plating Inc., Service One Transportation Inc., Don and Lynn Kiel, Oostburg Concrete, Wittkopp Funeral and Cremation Services, Pfeffer Trucking, Carbliss, Oostburg State Bank, Pallett Works, Jensen Sales and Service, Roth’s Auto Restoration, Sonntag Plumbing Inc., Amy Bruechert Realty, Lake Auto Glass, Fastenal, Hair Fellers Barbershop, Arenz Auto Detailing and Duehring’s Tax Service.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

Additional information on the Travis Arenz Motorsports team can be found by visiting the team’s Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.

Travis Arenz Motorsports Sponsor Showcase – Don and Lynn Kiel

Don and Lynn Kiel’s first date came when they attended a race at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. in June 1998 and they have been together ever since, marrying on Feb. 14, 2005. Lynn spent her working career in the banking industry retiring after 39 years in 2017 as an assistant vice-president at a local Manitowoc bank.

Lynn’s interest in racing started when she attended the races at the 141 Speedway as a child with her dad, Andy Endries. RIP ANDY!

Don’s interest in racing started when he bought Dean Divine’s Modified in the early 1970s. Don’s driving experience involved Modifieds and Mini Sprints, as well as 360 Sprint Cars at Manitowoc Expo Speedway in 2011 and 2012.

Don spent four years in the United States Air Force, enlisting the night of his graduation party. He was honorably discharged after four years in 1967 as an Airman First Class. Don was a Minuteman Missile electrician serving as team chief his last year and got to take part in the test firing of four Minuteman Missiles at Vandenburg Air Force Base in Lompoc, Calif. Don was based at F. E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyo. for 41 months.

Don started flying in Cheyenne at the age of 19, secured his first flying job three days after his honorable discharge from the U.S. Air Force at age 22 and retired at age 60. He retired as Senior Captain on the 300-passenger Airbus A 330-300 flying to London, Paris, Rome, Amsterdam and Frankfurt. He has logged over 30,000 hours of flying time with a lot of stories to tell.

For a glimpse of Don’s career, Google Don Kiel Wisconsin Aviation Hall of Fame. For a view of his favorite aircraft that he owned for four years, check out the Warbird Takeoff by looking up Beech 18 Takeoff Great Radial Engine Sound on YouTube. Click on the 32-second video. Don and Lynn continue to fly his 1952 Cessna 170B, both on wheels and skis in the winter.

Don loves to say, “It’s pretty cool when your vocation and avocation are one and the same!”

“We started out sponsoring Travis Arenz by buying him a set of rear tires five years ago and the rest is history,” Don Kiel said. “Travis is a very talented racer from the tiniest detail to the actual racing. I love to watch Travis feel the track out and then work his magic. I sponsor Travis as I feel he is one of the best!”

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

 

Travis Arenz Motorsports
2025 Upcoming Schedule

Saturday, May 3 – Wilmot Raceway, Wilmot, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 10 – Sycamore Speedway, Sycamore, Ill. (IRA)
Friday, May 16 – Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 17 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, May 18 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 24 – Wilmot Raceway, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, May 25 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA)

 

Travis Arenz Motorsports
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 1
IRA Events – 1
A Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 1
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 1
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 1
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 1
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 1
Heat Race Victories – 1
B-Main Victories – 0
Dash Appearances – 1
Dash Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

 

April 30, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Pokorski surges to solid showing in 2025 IRA opener

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Alex Pokorski (4) posted a 14th place showing in the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series 2025 season opener at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Saturday, April 26. – HW Designs photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) April 29, 2025 – In his first full season of 410 Sprint Car competition, Alex Pokorski crafted a smooth start to the 2025 season behind the wheel of the No. 4 Akright Auto machine at the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series Glenn Hepfner Memorial at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Saturday, April 26.

The West Bend native, who recorded in a runner-up showing in the 2024 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car point standings, opened the night by timing in 21st in the 29-car field with a lap of 12.110 seconds around the high banked third-mile clay oval.

After rolling off seventh in the third 8-lap IRA heat race, Pokorski advanced two spots to place fifth and claim a direct transfer spot into the 30-lap A main.

The sixth-year Sprint Car competitor started 17th in the IRA headliner before dropping back to 20th in the early going. He then rallied in the second half of the race to advance six positions and nail down an IRA career best 14th place A-main showing in just his fifth career 410 Sprint Car start.

“It was fun to have the team back together and to be racing again,” Pokorski said. “We put down a solid benchmark to try to improve upon. The team did well with getting the car set up and adjusting as the track changed throughout the night.

“I’m still getting used to the 410 car, so I learned a few things,” he said. “I could have done better in qualifying. When you qualify well, that makes the rest of the night easier. Hopefully, we can do that this week at Wilmot.”

The Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team is set to compete in the IRA Dick Colburn Classic Open Wheel Spectacular at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, May 3.

Non-Wing Crate Sprint Cars, Winged Crate Sprint Cars and Lightning Sprints are also on the card.

Pit gates open at 2 p.m. and spectator gates open at 4 p.m. with hot laps at 5:45 p.m. and racing at 6:45 p.m.

In the event of rain, Sunday, May 4 is the rain date.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team 2025 sponsorship partners are Akright Auto, Mulch Express of Wisconsin, GR8, Lynch Buick, GMC of West Bend, Professional Plating, Wisconsin Bank and Trust, Ace Hardware of Kiel and Sheboygan Falls, Novak’s Service Center, Cedar Valley Hunt Club, Germaine/Paul Kaphingst & Susie and Pedal Down Promotions.

All 2025 IRA events are streamed live on floracing.com

For schedule updates and additional information on the Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team, check out Pokorski Motorsports on Facebook at https://facebook.com/pokorskimotorsports or visit www.pedaldownpromo.com

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team Sponsor Showcase – Mulch Express of Wisconsin

The Alex Pokorski – Akright Auto Racing Team is excited to have Mulch Express of Wisconsin back on board as a sponsorship partner for the 2025 season.

Based in Newton, Wis., Mulch Express of Wisconsin was founded in 2000 out of a desire to help control the cost and efficiency of installing mulch, bark, soil and playground chips. Over the course of the past 25 years, the specialty landscaping company has found its niche as the to-go mulching provider for municipalities, school districts, commercial businesses and residences throughout Northeastern Wisconsin.

In addition, Mulch Express of Wisconsin has proudly served one of the top motorsports facilities in the world as the official mulch provider of Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wis., as well as providing mulch services at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis.

As a former Wisconsin-based 360 Sprint Car competitor, Mulch Express of Wisconsin owner Russ Wetenkamp is thrilled to have the opportunity to once again partner with Alex Pokorski and the Akright Auto Racing Team for the 2025 Sprint Car campaign.

“We have a strong connection to Sprint Car racing after several years of competing in the 360 Sprint Car division with the number Gr8 car,” Wetenkamp said. “We feel Alex Pokorski is a good, up-and-coming Sprint Car driver and a great individual to represent our Wisconsin-based specialty landscaping company.”

To contact or obtain additional information on Mulch Express of Wisconsin, call 920-726-4840, send an email to mulchexpressofwi@gmail.com or visit Mulch Express of Wisconsin on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team Sponsor Showcase – Akright Auto

Located at 106 North Bluebird Lane in Sheboygan Falls, Wis. Akright Auto has served as a reliable source for auto parts since 1940.

With a highly trained staff of auto parts professionals, Akright Auto is well prepared to assist customers with vehicle repair needs with a wide assortment of affordable, high-quality auto parts available on-site. If a part is not available, Akright Auto offers next-day delivery services.

In addition, Akright Auto provides full auto salvage services, along with a 90-day standard warranty on all parts purchases.

Contact Akright Auto by phone at 920-467-4201, toll-free at 800-400-4201, via email at dakright12@gmail.com or visit www.akrightauto.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team
Upcoming Schedule

Saturday, May 3 – Wilmot Raceway, Wilmot, Wis. (IRA 410)
Saturday, May 10 – Sycamore Speedway, Maple Park, Illinois (IRA 410)
Friday, May 16 – Dodge County Fairgrounds, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA 410)
Saturday, May 17 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA 410)
Sunday, May 18 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (IRA 410)
Saturday, May 24 – Wilmot Raceway, Wis. (IRA 410)
Sunday, May 25 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA 410)

*** Confirmed schedule updates will be posted on the Pokorski Motorsports Facebook page ***

Alex Pokorski
Akright Auto Racing Team
410 Sprint Car
2025 Statistics

Total Events – 1
Interstate Racing Association Events – 1
A Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 1
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 1
B Main Victories – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0
Dash Appearances – 0
Dash Victories – 0

Alex Pokorski
Akright Auto Racing Team
360 Sprint Car Statistics

Total Events – 0
Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Events – 0
Midwest Sprint Car Association Events – 0
A Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 0
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 0
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 0
B Main Victories – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

April 29, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Schmidt outduels Goeden to take PDTR 360 Sprint Car season opener

Richards, Zdroik, Zellmer secure A-main wins

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) April 26, 2025 – Two-time and defending Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car champion Ben Schmidt of Plymouth topped five-time track champion Donny Goeden of Kewaskum to fire up the 2025 season in victorious fashion in the 25-lap Akright Auto PDTR-Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car A main on a chilly spring evening at The Plymouth Dirt Track on Saturday, April 26.

Two-time and defending Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car champion Ben Schmidt earned his 26th career PDTR 360 Sprint Car A-main victory in the 2025 season opener at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, April 26.  – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

Jake Richards of Neshkoro won the 25-lap Oostburg Automotive Grand National main event.

Jim Zdroik of Hartford chalked up the win in the 25-lap Sheboygan Flooring B Mod A-main.

Adam Zellmer of Horicon racked up the A-main triumph in the 20-lap Midwest Legends Dirt Series main event.

Polesitter Brandon Berth of Cascade jumped into the lead on the opening circuit of the 360 Sprint Car main event before back-to-back cautions involving Katelyn Krebsbach of Cascade and Joseph Hintz of Burnett bunched the field on lap 2.

On the restart, three-time PDTR 360 Sprint Car champion Donny Goeden, who started outside the front row, bolted in to challenge Berth from the top spot. The two drivers battled side by side over the ensuing lap before Berth clipped an infield tire sending his car flipping in turn two on lap 3.

Former PDTR 360 Sprint Car champion Lance Fassbender of Burnett was also involved in the incident, which forced him to retire from the race on his first night back in his familiar No. 7 car after suffering serious burns last June.

Goeden, who began his racing career in the Eastern Wisconsin Stock Car Winged Super Modified division at Plymouth in 1985, controlled the restart before Ben Schmidt, who started fourth, maneuvered past fifth starter T.J. Smith of Greenville and dove under Goeden to assume the lead exiting turn four on lap 4.

Schmidt fended off Goeden over the next two laps before the race was slowed for the fourth time for Eric Wilke of Genessee, who spun in turn three on lap 6.

Smith and Goeden exchanged second place on the restart, which helped Schmidt build up a half-straightaway cushion. On lap 11, Schmidt caught the rear of the field, which helped Goeden close in to pull even with the two-time PDTR 360 Sprint champion on lap 13 as the two Sprint Car stalwarts weaved their way through lapped traffic.

Schmidt successfully negotiated the slower traffic to stretch his lead to a full straightaway over the final 10 laps en route to his 26th career PDTR 360 Sprint Car A-main victory and 47th Midwest Sprint Car Association triumph. The victory pulled Schmidt into a tie for second on the all-time PDTR 360 Sprint A-main victory list with Kurt Davis of South Milwaukee.

Goeden, who owns 40 career A-main victories and five total track titles in Winged Super Modified (two) and 360 Sprint Car competition (three) at Plymouth, had to settle for second, sixth starter Kevin Karnitz of West Bend placed third, Smith wound up fourth and Clayton Rossmann of Wadsworth, Ill. charged from the 14th starting spot to place fifth.

“We went backward at the start,” Schmidt said. “It took a few laps for us to move forward. Then I was able to get past Donny after an early restart. It’s always good to finish ahead of a great driver like Donny. He’s been doing it really well for a long time here at Plymouth. To me, he’s the G.O.A.T. It feels good to be standing here in victory lane for the sponsors, crew and everyone that supports this team.”

The start of the Grand National main event was delayed by a six-car incident in turn three upon the drop of the original green flag. When the race got underway, polesitter Jake Richards bolted into the lead with fourth starter Jeff Richards of Montello sneaking into second.

After a yellow slowed the race on lap 4 for a spin involving 86-year-old two-time track champion Dick Hed of Plymouth, Jake Richards proved to be the class of the field over the final 21 circuits as he opened up a half-lap gap over Jeff Richards on lap 13 and cruised during the second half of the race to post his second career PDTR Grand National A-main triumph.

Jake Richards of Neshkoro claimed his second career 2025 season opening victory in the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Grand National main event at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, April 26.  – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

Jeff Richards finished second, Dustin Weiss of Iron Ridge drove up from the 13th starting position to place third, Jeff Steenbergen of Johnson Creek advanced 11 spots to take fourth and three-time PDTR Grand National champ Don Sorce Jr. of West Allis placed fifth after starting 16th.

Defending PDTR B Mod track champion Travis Schmidt of Plymouth took the lead of the B Mod main event from the pole with second starter Jim Zdroik of Hartford securing second.

Schmidt opened a solid lead in the first half of the race. However, contact with an infield tire while working through slower traffic forced him out of the race and handed the lead to Zdroik.

Zdroik held tight to the top spot over the final 12 circuits on the way to his first career PDTR B Mod A-main victory.

Geoff Zdroik of Rubicon, who started seventh, finished second, Vince Jung of Iron Ridge moved up from the ninth starting position to place third, 13th starter Cole Thomas of Franklin was fourth and eighth starter Brandon Knepprath of Boltonville wound up fifth.

Jim Zdroik of Hartford notched his initial B Mod A-main triumph in the 2025 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing season opener at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, April 26.  – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

The 20-lap Midwest Legends Dirt Series main event was hindered by five yellow flags and one red flag in the first 10 laps.

Once the race settled into extended green flag action, polesitter Hayden Schmuhl of Beaver Dam held the lead in the closing laps before Zellmer worked his way up from the fifth starting spot to wrestle the lead away from Schmuhl in lapped traffic on lap 17.

Zellmer held on to secure the victory in the lone scheduled Midwest Legends Dirt Series event at The Plymouth Dirt Track in 2025. Alex Haese of Manitowoc claimed second after starting sixth, Schmuhl wound up third, Ryan Sullivan of Waupun worked his way up 10 spots to secure fourth and Cal Swenson of Hortonville took fifth after starting 11th.

Adam Zellmer of Horicon raced to victory in the Wisconsin Legends Dirt Series A-main in the 2025 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing season opener at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, April 26.  – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

Brandon Berth earned the overall PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Car fast qualifier award with a quick lap of 12.926 seconds.

Dustin Weiss won the 12-lap Grand National B Main and Cole Thomas was victorious in the 12-lap B Mod B main.

The first event of the 2025 PDTR campaign, which was sponsored by Mayer Automotive, produced a packed pit area featuring 111 total entries, including 32 Grand Nationals, 30 B Mods, 26 Legends and 23 360 Sprint Cars.

The next PDTR racing program on Saturday, May 3 will showcase the 2025 Seubert Calf Ranches Super Six Late Model Series opener.

The PDTR 360 Sprint Cars, Grand Nationals and B Mods will also be in action.

Grandstand gates open at 4 p.m. with qualifying at 4:30 p.m. and racing to follow.

Weather information for all Plymouth Dirt Track Racing events will be posted on the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Facebook, X (Twitter) and Instagram pages, as well as the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing website – www.plymouthdtr.com.

The Plymouth Dirt Track at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds is located at 229 Fairview Drive in Plymouth, Wis.

For more information, visit www.plymouthdtr.com or check out Plymouth Dirt Track Racing on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

AKRIGHT AUTO PLYMOUTH DIRT TRACK RACING 360 SPRINT CARS

A Main (25 Laps): 1. 1-Ben Schmidt [4]; 2. 27G-Donny Goeden [2]; 3. 63K-Kevin Karnitz [6]; 4. 69S-TJ Smith [5]; 5. 09-Clayton Rossmann [14]; 6. 3-Justin Erickson [8]; 7. 69-Bill Taylor [11]; 8. 2-Chris Clayton [21]; 9. 14J-Joseph Hintz [3]; 10. 3BK-Billy Kreutz [13]; 11. 46-Steven Ruh [20]; 12. 57-Tristan Furseth [19]; 13. 16-Anthony Knierim [12]; 14. 55P-Brady Portschy [16]; 15. 11-Tony Wondra [9]; 16. 51-Chris Larson [17]; 17. 9C-Cole Stella [18]; 18. 30-Doug Wondra [22]; 19. 24X-Eric Wilke [10]; 20. 22B-Brandon Berth [1]; 21. 7-Lance Fassbender [7]; 22. 08-Katelyn Krebsbach [15]; 23. (DNS) 5-Kevin Seidler

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 1-Ben Schmidt[1]; 2. 14J-Joseph Hintz[3]; 3. 24X-Eric Wilke[2]; 4. 69-Bill Taylor[4]; 5. 08-Katelyn Krebsbach[5]; 6. 51-Chris Larson[7]; 7. 9C-Cole Stella[8]; 8. 30-Doug Wondra[6]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 69S-TJ Smith[2]; 2. 7-Lance Fassbender[1]; 3. 27G-Donny Goeden[4]; 4. 3BK-Billy Kreutz[3]; 5. 09-Clayton Rossmann[5]; 6. 55P-Brady Portschy[7]; 7. 2-Chris Clayton[6]; 8. (DNS) 5-Kevin Seidler

Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 63K-Kevin Karnitz[2]; 2. 22B-Brandon Berth[1]; 3. 3-Justin Erickson[3]; 4. 11-Tony Wondra[5]; 5. 16-Anthony Knierim[6]; 6. 46-Steven Ruh[4]; 7. 57-Tristan Furseth[7]

Qualifying 1: 1. 1-Ben Schmidt, 13.309[3]; 2. 24X-Eric Wilke, 13.979[7]; 3. 14J-Joseph Hintz, 14.010[1]; 4. 69-Bill Taylor, 14.132[6]; 5. 08-Katelyn Krebsbach, 14.181[5]; 6. 30-Doug Wondra, 14.321[4]; 7. 51-Chris Larson, 14.354[8]; 8. 9C-Cole Stella, 14.903[2]

Qualifying 2: 1. 7-Lance Fassbender, 13.077[4]; 2. 69S-TJ Smith, 13.114[6]; 3. 3BK-Billy Kreutz, 13.293[8]; 4. 27G-Donny Goeden, 13.337[3]; 5. 09-Clayton Rossmann, 13.387[7]; 6. 2-Chris Clayton, 13.431[1]; 7. 55P-Brady Portschy, 13.792[2]; 8. (DNS) 5-Kevin Seidler

Qualifying 3: 1. 22B-Brandon Berth, 12.926[2]; 2. 63K-Kevin Karnitz, 13.014[4]; 3. 3-Justin Erickson, 13.166[1]; 4. 57-Tristan Furseth, 13.397[7]; 5. 46-Steven Ruh, 13.428[3]; 6. 11-Tony Wondra, 13.443[5]; 7. 16-Anthony Knierim, 13.465[6]

OOSTBURG AUTOMOTIVE GRAND NATIONALS

A Main (25 Laps): 1. 8R-Jake Richards [1]; 2. 10R-Jeff Richards [4]; 3. 53W-Dustin Weiss [13]; 4. 62S-Jeff Steenbergen [15]; 5. 99-Don Sorce Jr [16]; 6. 80-Luke Scholten [7]; 7. 0-Brett Wenzel [5]; 8. 13-Josh Pierce [14]; 9. 14X-Will Sorce [8]; 10. 23-Scott Kafka [20]; 11. 5M-Jeff Muehlbauer [19]; 12. 95-Donny Kulow [18]; 13. 37-Ryan Minster [12]; 14. 6-Dick Hed [17]; 15. K9-Tyler Wilson [6]; 16. 35B-Ethan Beattie [2]; 17. 5R-Nate Ruh [3]; 18. 15-Derek Kaat [9]; 19. 84X-Marcus Hoeppner [10]; 20. 93-Mavrick Ruh [11]

B Main (12 Laps): 1. 53W-Dustin Weiss[6]; 2. 13-Joshua Pierce[1]; 3. 62S-Jeff Steenbergen[4]; 4. 99-Donald Sorce Jr[8]; 5. 24K-Tyler Kulow[2]; 6. 6-Dick Hed[13]; 7. 95-Donny Kulow[3]; 8. 5M-Jeff Muehlbauer[14]; 9. 23-Scott Kafka[11]; 10. 72E-Chad Espen[12]; 11. 42-Jason Juech[9]; 12. 25M-Darren Meyer[5]; 13. 11-Dylan May[10]; 14. 84-Mark Hoeppner[7]; 15. 27-Greg Goschey[17]; 16. 25P-Jonathan Persha[15]; 17. (DNS) 53B-Brad Weiss; 18. (DNS) 52W-Jack Wiroll; 19. (DNS) 45-Trent Bogart; 20. (DNS) 89-Justin Miller

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 37-Ryan Minster[2]; 2. K9-Tyler Wilson[1]; 3. 5R-Nate Ruh[4]; 4. 13-Josh Pierce[5]; 5. 25M-Darren Meyer[7]; 6. 42-Jason Juech[8]; 7. (DNF) 53B-Brad Weiss[3]; 8. (DNF) 89-Justin Miller[6]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 93-Mavrick Ruh[2]; 2. 10R-Jeff Richards[3]; 3. 15-Derek Kaat[6]; 4. 24K-Tyler Kulow[1]; 5. 53W-Dustin Weiss[7]; 6. 11-Dylan May[4]; 7. 27-Greg Goschey[8]; 8. (DNF) 25P-Jonathan Persha[5]

Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 80-Luke Scholten[2]; 2. 0-Brett Wenzel[4]; 3. 84X-Marcus Hoeppner[3]; 4. 95-Donny Kulow[7]; 5. 84-Mark Hoeppner[5]; 6. 23-Scott Kafka[6]; 7. (DNF) 6-Dick Hed[1]; 8. (DNF) 45-Trent Bogart[8]

Heat 4 (8 Laps): 1. 14X-Will Sorce[6]; 2. 8R-Jake Richards[3]; 3. 35B-Ethan Beattie[4]; 4. 62S-Jeff Steenbergen[8]; 5. 99-Don Sorce Jr[2]; 6. 72E-Chad Espen[7]; 7. 5M-Jeff Muehlbauer[1]; 8. (DNF) 52W-Jack Wiroll[5]

SHEBOYGAN FLOORING B MODS

A Main (25 Laps): 1. 6Z-Jim Zdroik [2]; 2. 18Z-Geoff Zdroik [7]; 3. 67-Vince Jung [9]; 4. 91-Cole Thomas [13]; 5. 17-Brandon Knepprath [8]; 6. 66-Steve Lorier [15]; 7. 03W-Tim Warner [10]; 8. 89-Logan Brass [17]; 9. 73-Rory Welch [12]; 10. 3Z-Austin Zdroik [5]; 11. 33H-Barrett Hummelmeier [16]; 12. 67J-Dan Jung [3]; 13. 48B-Brad Keith [11]; 14. 99-Jordan Gracyalny [18]; 15. 14G-Craig Gessner [6]; 16. 4JR-Joel Seegert Jr [4]; 17. 3-Travis Schmidt [1]; 18. 29R-Ryan Kuehn [19]; 19. 48-Matt Urban [14]; 20. 69-Travis Kleindl [20]

B Main (12 Laps): 1. 91-Cole Thomas[1]; 2. 48-Matt Urban[5]; 3. 66-Steve Lorier[8]; 4. 33H-Barrett Hummelmeier[4]; 5. 89-Logan Brass[2]; 6. 99-Jordan Gracyalny[7]; 7. 29R-Ryan Kuehn[3]; 8. 69-Travis Kleindl[6]; 9. 59S-Spencer Long[16]; 10. 19-Parker Glander[11]; 11. 12D-Chris Gilson[12]; 12. 31W-Kelan Wolfe[15]; 13. 11B-Brad Buckman[13]; 14. 1X-Ryan Spoehr[14]; 15. XV-Don Marquart[9]; 16. 26-Ryan Pafford[10]; 17. 85B-Kevin Braaksma[18]; 18. (DNS) 55K-Kyle Dimmick

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 18Z-Geoff Zdroik[2]; 2. 6Z-Jim Zdroik[3]; 3. 3-Travis Schmidt[6]; 4. 91-Cole Thomas[1]; 5. 48-Matt Urban[4]; 6. XV-Don Marquart[7]; 7. 55K-Kyle Dimmick[8]; 8. 31W-Kelan Wolfe[5]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 14G-Craig Gessner[1]; 2. 67-Vince Jung[4]; 3. 3Z-Austin Zdroik[6]; 4. 89-Logan Brass[5]; 5. 69-Travis Kleindl[3]; 6. 26-Ryan Pafford[7]; 7. 85B-Kevin Braaksma[8]; 8. 59S-Spencer Long[2]

Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 67J-Dan Jung[5]; 2. 4JR-Joel Seegert Jr[1]; 3. 17-Brandon Knepprath[3]; 4. 29R-Ryan Kuehn[2]; 5. 99-Jordan Gracyalny[6]; 6. 19-Parker Glander[4]; 7. (DNF) 11B-Brad Buckman[7]

Heat 4 (8 Laps): 1. 03W-Tim Warner[1]; 2. 48B-Brad Keith[3]; 3. 73-Rory Welch[2]; 4. 33H-Barrett Hummelmeier[5]; 5. 66-Steve Lorier[7]; 6. 12D-Chris Gilson[4]; 7. 1X-Ryan Spoehr[6]

106.5 THE BUZZ MIDWEST LEGENDS DIRT SERIES

A Main (20 Laps): 1. 117-Adam Zellmer [4]; 2. 76-Alex Haese [6]; 3. 59S-Hayden Schmuhl [1]; 4. 95-Ryan Sullivan [14]; 5. 19X-Cal Swenson [11]; 6. 87-Dallas Ross [10]; 7. 49-Ayden Erickson[5]; 8. 99-Rob Maule[17]; 9. 54-Nate Werner[18]; 10. 47V-Dominic Van Riper [2]; 11. 51F-Tim Franz [16]; 12. 14T-Talyn Neuman [3]; 13. 78-Carson Grob [23]; 14. 37M-Daniel Mech [20]; 15. 17F-Faith Zellmer Schultz [12]; 16. 80-Art Hahn [7]; 17. 33S-Mike Swenson [15]; 18. 7-Lilly Fassbender [9]; 19. 9D9-Mackenzie Maule [26]; 20. 53-Caleb DeYoung [19]; 21. 27-Russell Loof [24]; 22. 5K-Keith Carey [25]; 23. 80L-Jacob Loof [21]; 24. (DNF) 51S-Charlie Spoonmore [13]; 25. (DNF) 4C-Connor Carey [8]; 26. (DNF) 00B-Oliver O’Brion [22]

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 47V-Dominic Van Riper[2]; 2. 14T-Talyn Neuman[3]; 3. 76-Alex Haese[1]; 4. 87-Dallas Ross[4]; 5. 51S-Charlie Spoonmore[7]; 6. 51F-Tim Franz[5]; 7. 78-Carson Grob[9]; 8. 5K-Keith Carey[8]; 9. 80L-Jacob Loof[6]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 80-Art Hahn[2]; 2. 59S-Hayden Schmuhl[4]; 3. 49-Ayden Erickson[3]; 4. 19X-Cal Swenson[5]; 5. 95-Ryan Sullivan[6]; 6. 99-Rob Maule[7]; 7. 53-Caleb DeYoung[9]; 8. 37M-Daniel Mech[8]; 9. 00B-Oliver O’Brion[1]

Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 117-Adam Zellmer[1]; 2. 7-Lilly Fassbender[4]; 3. 4C-Connor Carey[3]; 4. 17F-Faith Zellmer Schultz[2]; 5. 33S-Mike Swenson[6]; 6. 54-Nate Werner[5]; 7. 27-Russell Loof[8]; 8. 9D9-Mackenzie Maule[7]

April 27, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Wilton explores action romance in new novel ‘On Orion’s Shoulder’  

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) April 17, 2025 – After publishing a pair of interwoven epic fantasy novels, Wisconsin-based author S.L. Wilton travels down a different path with his latest novel, “On Orion’s Shoulder,” which takes a turn into the fast-paced, emotion-tinged world of action romance.

Published through Pedal Down Promotions of Manitowoc, Wis., “On Orion’s Shoulder” comes on the heels of his debut epic fantasy novel, “Queen of Crows” in 2021 and sequel “Crows and Wyverns” in 2024, which were both met with strong reader interest and critical acclaim, including nods as The BookFest Awards prize winners.

Wilton, a retired 20-year U.S. Army veteran, gleaned his inspiration for “On Orion’s Shoulder” from the silver screen.

“I watched the Kurt Russel film, ‘Soldier’ with the premise being soldiers are chosen at birth and raised to be merciless and obey orders through conditioning and training,” Wilton said. “At one point the old soldiers are replaced with new soldiers and their commander says they’re practically manufactured. I thought, what if they were manufactured? As I wrote the story I kept thinking, nature always finds a way, so maybe he changes and gains emotions and empathy. So, a love interest was added and the story fleshed itself out.”

Within the pages of “On Orion’s Shoulder,” Wilton vividly portrays a story brimming with conflict, suspense and love in far-away space.

“A remote mining colony in the Orion nebula comes under attack from an unknown species,” Wilton said. “A genetically engineered clone designed for the military is part of a unit sent to rescue the miners. Events unfold that leave the miners and the clone abandoned to their fate. The clone struggles to protect the miners and along the way learns about the joy and pain love can bring.”

“On Orion’s Shoulder” provides fans of Wilton’s first two novels with a fresh change of pace.

“My first two novels were high fantasy stories told from one point of view,” Wilton said. “‘On Orion’s Shoulder’ is a soft science fiction story with a strong romance thread written from two points of view. It will appeal to science fiction fans that aren’t too concerned with how it works, only that it works. With plenty of action and romance, it will satisfy a wide range of adult readers.”

“On Orion’s Shoulder” is available on several online book sales platforms, including amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com and bookshop.org, as well as at yet-to-be-determined future in-person shows and events.

For more information on S.L. Wilton, his new novel “On Orion’s Shoulder” and previous releases “Queen of Crows” and “Crows and Wyverns,” visit https://slwilton.com, Facebook and X (Twitter).

For more information on “On Orion’s Shoulder” and “Crows and Wyverns” book publisher, Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

April 17, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson

Arenz gears up for third IRA go-around

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Travis Arenz is slated to fire up the 2025 Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series season at 34 Raceway in West Burlington, Iowa Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5. – Travis Arenz Motorsports photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) April 2, 2025 – Following two successful seasons of full-time 410 Sprint Car competition, Travis Arenz and the Travis Arenz Motorsports team are aiming to be nightly contenders in Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series action during the upcoming 2025 campaign.

The 2021 and 2022 Midwest Sprint Car Association and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car champion is slated to open the 2025 season with an IRA-Midwest Open Wheel Association (MOWA) co-sanctioned doubleheader event at 34 Raceway in West Burlington, Iowa on Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5.

After capturing his first career IRA A-main victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track during his 2023 rookie season, Arenz’s top 2024 finishes came in the form of three runner-up showings in IRA action at Sycamore Speedway (May 11) and The Plymouth Dirt Track (Aug. 31) as well as in non-sanctioned competition at Wilmot Raceway (Sept. 21).

In 19 410 Sprint Car events during the 2024 campaign, the 2023 IRA Apple Cup Rookie Award winner collected eight top five A-main showings, 13 top 10 main event finishes and 14 top 15 A-main runs to go along with four heat race victories, 11 dash appearances, one dash victory and one fast qualifier award.

Despite missing nine IRA events primarily due to motor issues, Arenz posted an 11th-place finish in the final 2024 IRA point standings.

“The plan for this season is to complete the full IRA Sprints schedule,” Arenz said. “I am also looking to compete with the High Limit and Worlds of Outlaws series when they come to Wisconsin at a few of my favorite tracks. We’ve worked hard in the off-season to update and replace some equipment. We’re looking forward to getting started.”

The 2025 Travis Arenz Motorsports sponsorship partners include Professional Plating Inc., Service One Transportation Inc., Don and Lynn Kiel, Oostburg Concrete, Wittkopp Funeral and Cremation Services, Pfeffer Trucking, Carbliss, Oostburg State Bank, Pallett Works, Jensen Sales and Service, Roth’s Auto Restoration, Sonntag Plumbing Inc., Amy Bruechert Realty, Lake Auto Glass, Fastenal, Hair Fellers Barbershop, Arenz Auto Detailing and Duehring’s Tax Service.

Additional information on the Travis Arenz Motorsports team can be found by visiting the team’s Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.

Travis Arenz Motorsports Sponsor Showcase – Don and Lynn Kiel

Don and Lynn Kiel’s first date came when they attended a race at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. in June 1998 and they have been together ever since, marrying on Feb. 14, 2005. Lynn spent her working career in the banking industry retiring after 39 years in 2017 as an assistant vice-president at a local Manitowoc bank.

Lynn’s interest in racing started when she attended the races at the 141 Speedway as a child with her dad, Andy Endries. RIP ANDY!

Don’s interest in racing started when he bought Dean Divine’s Modified in the early 1970s. Don’s driving experience involved Modifieds and Mini Sprints, as well as 360 Sprint Cars at Manitowoc Expo Speedway in 2011 and 2012.

Don spent four years in the United States Air Force, enlisting the night of his graduation party. He was honorably discharged after four years in 1967 as an Airman First Class. Don was a Minuteman Missile electrician serving as team chief his last year and got to take part in the test firing of four Minuteman Missiles at Vandenburg Air Force Base in Lompoc, Calif. Don was based at F. E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyo. for 41 months.

Don started flying in Cheyenne at the age of 19, secured his first flying job three days after his honorable discharge from the U.S. Air Force at age 22 and retired at age 60. He retired as Senior Captain on the 300-passenger Airbus A 330-300 flying to London, Paris, Rome, Amsterdam and Frankfurt. He has logged over 30,000 hours of flying time with a lot of stories to tell.

For a glimpse of Don’s career, Google Don Kiel Wisconsin Aviation Hall of Fame. For a view of his favorite aircraft that he owned for four years, check out the Warbird Takeoff by looking up Beech 18 Takeoff Great Radial Engine Sound on YouTube. Click on the 32-second video. Don and Lynn continue to fly his 1952 Cessna 170B, both on wheels and skis in the winter.

Don loves to say, “It’s pretty cool when your vocation and avocation are one and the same!”

“We started out sponsoring Travis Arenz by buying him a set of rear tires five years ago and the rest is history,” Don Kiel said. “Travis is a very talented racer from the tiniest detail to the actual racing. I love to watch Travis feel the track out and then work his magic. I sponsor Travis as I feel he is one of the best!”

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970. 

Travis Arenz Motorsports
2025 Upcoming Schedule

Friday, April 4 – 34 Raceway, West Burlington, Iowa (IRA-MOWA)
Saturday, April 5 – 34 Raceway, West Burlington, Iowa (IRA-MOWA)
Saturday, April 26 – Beaver Dam Raceway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA)

Travis Arenz Motorsports
2024 Final Statistics

Total Events – 19
IRA Events – 18
A Main Victories – 0
Podium Finishes – 3
Top Five A-Main Finishes – 8
Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 13
Top 15 A-Main Finishes – 14
Top 20 A-Main Finishes – 15
Heat Race Victories – 4
B-Main Victories – 0
Dash Appearances – 11
Dash Victories – 1
Fast Qualifier Awards – 1
Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association Points Finish – 11th

Travis Arenz Motorsports
Career Highlights
2008-2024

Total Career A-Main Victories – 71
Outlaw Compact 4-Cylinder A-Main Victories – 20
IMCA Northern Sport Mod/B Mod A-Main Victories – 20
MSA/PDTR 360 Sprint Car A-Main Victories – 30
IRA 410 Sprint Car A-Main Victories – 1
2013 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Outlaw Compact 4-Cylinder Champion
2016 141 Speedway Northern Sport Mod Champion
2021 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car Champion
2021 Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car Champion
2022 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car Champion
2022 Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car Champion
2023 Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Apple Cup Rookie Award

April 2, 2025 / by Jeff Pederson