Children’s book author Karen Meyer unveils ‘Papa Bear’s Fence’

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) April 11, 2024 – To commemorate her 10th year of creating children’s books designed to capture the imagination of the entire family, Plymouth, Wis. Author Karen Meyer has released “Papa Bear’s Fence” as her 16th book publication.

Published through Pedal Down Promotions of Manitowoc, Wis., Meyer’s whimsical new children’s picture book showcases Meyer’s engaging storytelling coupled with the vivid hand-drawn illustrations of Joan Graven.

“‘Papa Bear’s Fence’ is the story of a bear family and their efforts to work together to protect their house after reading in the newspaper about a girl who went into a bear family’s house and caused trouble,” Meyer said. “Most of my picture books offer humor for adults and pictures and stories for children. ‘Papa Bear’s Fence’ is a book for the whole family.”

Meyer says writing children’s books has allowed her to utilize her love of writing to help entertain her grandchildren.

“Papa Bear’s Fence” author Karen Meyer

“My introduction to writing was from high school writing assignments,” Meyer said. “The teacher encouraged me to continue writing.

“When our grandson was seven, he asked us if hyenas were real,” she said. “We took him to the zoo. There were two hyenas who offered a number of different poses. I took pictures. A few years later, I put captions under selected poses and wrote a sweet family hyena story, ‘Hootch’, which was published in 2015.”

Meyer has excelled in the children’s book genre since debuting “Hootch” nine years ago.

“Papa Bear’s Fence” illustrator Joan Graven

“I have released picture books for young children and chapter books for tweens over the years,” Meyer said. “A medieval knight story is waiting to be published, and I’m presently writing a romantic comedy for adult readers.

“Writing books gives me an opportunity to use my imagination,” she said. “I also enjoy connecting with readers.”

For more information on Karen Meyer and how to order her new book, “Papa Bear’s Fence,” visit www.karenmeyerbooks.com, www.amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com.

For more information on “Papa Bear’s Fence” publisher Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

Hartmann pushes off 2024 campaign with Farmington top-10 run

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Austin Hartmann earned a seventh place-showing in a 25-lap 410 Sprint Car A main at Farmington Empire Speedway in Farmington, Mo. on Saturday, April 6. – RC Custom Design photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) April 10, 2024 – After unfavorable weather conditions derailed their initial plans to start the 2024 campaign, Austin Hartmann and the 87A Hartmann Racing Team ventured to the state of Missouri for back-to-back events at US 36 Raceway in Osborn, Mo. on Friday, April 5 and Farmington Empire Speedway in Farmington, Mo. on Saturday, April 6 to fire off the team’s third full season of 410 Winged Sprint Car competition.

The team was slated to compete in the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association (IRA)-Midwest Open Wheel Association (MOWA) doubleheader event at 34 Raceway in West Burlington, Iowa on Friday, April 5 and Saturday, April 6. However, uncooperative weather led to the cancellation of the event and sent Hartmann and the team seeking a Plan B racing option.

The 2024 lid lifter came at not only a new track for Hartmann, but also against the best drivers and teams in the Winged Sprint Car racing business as the Plymouth, Wis. competitor signed in for a NOS Energy Drink World of Outlaws Series event at US 36 Raceway.

With 41 cars on hand, Hartmann timed 21st in qualifying group A before starting 11th and moving up two spots to place ninth in his heat race. After starting on the pole of the C Main, Hartmann finished fourth to miss transferring to the Last Chance Showdown by two positions.

The 87A Hartmann Racing team moved on to Farmington Empire Speedway on Saturday, April 6 for a weekly 410 Sprint Car program, which featured a 24-car field.

After drawing the pole position, Hartmann placed second in the first 10-lap heat race. He then lined up fifth in the 25-lap A main and came home with a seventh-place finish to secure the eighth top-10 A-main showing of his 410 Sprint Car career.

“It was a hell of a weekend,” Hartmann said. “Not much went our way, from engine problems on Friday night to truck problems on Saturday morning. After dealing with those issues, it was good to finish the weekend with a top-10 finish at Farmington.

“With adding Ian Schultz to the team this year, along with Eric Bergschultz and myself, we’ve been gelling quick as a crew and looking forward to getting the IRA started,” he said.

The 87A Hartmann Racing Team will hold a brat fry fundraiser on Saturday, April 13 at Holler n Hills, located at 5837 South Business Drive in Sheboygan, Wis., starting at 11 a.m. with food and raffles available all day.

The team is scheduled to open its third full-time season of Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series competition on Friday, April 19 with the IRA Spring Sizzler Presented by Kickass Beef Jerky at Mississippi Thunder Speedway in Fountain City, Wis.

Also on the card are Modifieds, USRA B Mods and USRA Hobby Stocks.

Pit gates open at 4 p.m. with spectator gates opening at 5:30 p.m., followed by hot laps at 6:45 p.m., IRA qualifying at 7 p.m. and opening ceremonies at 7:15 p.m.

The following night, the team will compete in the IRA Spring Trifecta at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis. with pit gates open at 2:30 p.m. and spectator gates opening at 3:30 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m.

The Dirt Kings Late Model Series and Badger Midgets will join the Bumper to Bumper IRA 410 Sprint Car Series for the three-division program.

All Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association events will be streamed live on FloRacing.

The sponsorship partners for the 2024 87A Hartmann Racing team include Kristine Hartmann of Pleasant View Realty, Shufflebotham Tree Service, Competition Specialists, Feldmann Sales & Service, Holler n Hills, Quasius Construction Inc., TheD8Dispensary, AF Inc., Metalcraft, Rich’s Truck and Auto Repair, Fastenal of Plymouth, Waldo Oil, RC Custom Design, Hepfner Racing Products, Maxim Chassis, Berryman Racing Shocks and My Race Pass.

The 2024 87A Hartmann Racing team consists of Eric Bergschultz, Ian Schultz, Karlee Hartmann, Andrew Shufflebotham and Kristine Hartmann.

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 – 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 for 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 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.comvisit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970. 

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
2024 Schedule 

Saturday, April 13 – Brat Fry at Holler n Hills, Sheboygan, Wis., 11 a.m.
Friday, April 19 – Mississippi Thunder Speedway, Fountain City, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, April 20 – Beaver Dam Raceway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA)
Friday, May 3 – Ogilvie Raceway, Ogilvie, Minn. (IRA)
Saturday, May 4 – Cedar Lake Speedway, New Richmond, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 11 – Sycamore Speedway, Sycamore, Ill. (IRA)
Saturday, May 18 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, May 19 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, May 25 – Wilmot Raceway, Wilmot, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, May 26 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA)
Friday, May 31 – Beaver Dam Raceway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (World of Outlaws)
Saturday, June 1 – Beaver Dam Raceway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (World of Outlaws)
Saturday, June 8 – Plymouth Dirt Track Racing, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, June 9 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, June 15 – Wilmot Raceway, Wilmot, Wis. (IRA)
Thursday, June 20 – Lincoln Park Speedway, Putnamville, Ind. (IRA-Maverick)
Friday, June 21 – Bloomington Speedway, Bloomington, Ind. (IRA-Maverick)
Saturday, June 22 – Tri-State Speedway, Haubstadt, Ind. (IRA-Maverick)
Sunday, June 23 – Terre Haute Action Track, Terre Haute, Ind. (IRA-Maverick)
Friday, June 28 – Outagamie Speedway, Seymour, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, June 29 – Beaver Dam Raceway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA)
Friday, July 12 – Wilmot Raceway, Wilmot, Wis. (World of Outlaws)
Saturday, July 13 – Wilmot Raceway, Wilmot, Wis. (World of Outlaws)
Thursday, July 18 – Norman County Raceway, Ada, Minn. (IRA-Red River SS)
Friday, July 19 – River Cities Speedway, Grand Forks, N.D. (IRA-NOSA)
Saturday, July 20–River Cities Speedway, Grand Forks, N.D. (IRA-NOSA)
Friday, July 26 – Dodge County Speedway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, July 27 – The Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, Aug. 17 – Wilmot Raceway, Wilmot, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, Aug. 18 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, Aug. 24 – To Be Determined (IRA)
Saturday, Aug. 31 – The Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)
Sunday, Sept. 1 – The Hill Raceway, Sturgeon Bay, Wis. (IRA)
Friday, Sept. 6 – Gondik Law Speedway, Superior, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, Sept. 7 – Cedar Lake Speedway, New Richmond, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, Sept. 14 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, Sept. 28 – The Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)
Friday, Oct. 18 – Dirt Oval at Route 66, Joliet, Ill. (World of Outlaws)
Saturday, Oct. 19 – Dirt Oval at Route 66, Joliet, Ill. (World of Outlaws)

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
2024 Statistics

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

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
Final 2023 Statistics

Total Events – 33
IRA Events – 27
World of Outlaws Events – 3
All Star Events – 4
A Main Victories – 0
B Main Victories – 0
Top Five A Main Finishes – 1
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 6
Top 15 A Main Finishes – 12
Top 20 A Main Finishes – 23
Heat Race Victories – 2
Dash Appearances – 6
Dash Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0
Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association Points Finish – 9th

Alex Pokorski plans full 2024 MSA slate, select 410 Sprint Car starts

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Alex Pokorski is set to run the full Midwest Sprint Car Association schedule during the upcoming 2024 racing season. -RC Custom Design photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) April 10, 2024 – Coming off of a breakthrough 2023 Akright Auto Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car season, the Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team is gearing up to contest the full MSA schedule, while mixing in a handful of 410 Sprint Car events during the upcoming 2024 campaign.

The 2023 season saw Pokorski entrench himself as a top contender in the MSA and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car ranks in his fourth overall and second full-time season in the Sprint Car ranks.

Following a 2022 campaign that yielded a mixed bag of results, as well as a 15th place showing in the final MSA point standings and a 14th place finish in the PDTR points race, Pokorski took a big leap forward throughout the 2023 campaign displaying both speed and consistency in the seat of the Spyder Akright-owned Akright Auto Racing Team No. 4 360 Sprint Car.

Along with capturing his first career MSA 360 Sprint Car A-main victory at the Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Friday, June 2, Pokorski tallied a total of 12 top-five, 21 top-10 and 23 top-15 A-main showings in 24 MSA events during his 2023 campaign. In addition, Pokorski collected four heat race victories and two fast qualifier awards in MSA 360 Sprint Car action.

After advancing from 14th in 2022 to fourth in the 2023 PDTR 360 Sprint Car point standings and moving up from 15th to fourth in the final 2023 MSA 360 Sprint Car Series points race, Pokorski secured the 2023 Most Improved Driver Award in both PDTR and MSA competition.

In addition to another full season of MSA 360 Sprint Car action, Pokorski will dip his toes into the 410 Sprint Car waters by running 4-5 events in 2024.

The Akright Auto Racing Team’s first event of the 2024 season will mark Pokorski’s first career 410 Sprint Car start with the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association Series at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Saturday, April 20.

On Saturday, April 27, Pokorski will launch the 24-race 2024 MSA-PDTR campaign at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis.

“The off-season has been a lot of work getting two cars together [360 and 410 Sprint Car], but we have been fortunate to have plenty of help,” Pokorski said. “We are planning to run the full MSA schedule as well as 4-to-5 IRA shows.

“My goals for the 2024 season are to improve on what we did last year, win a couple more races and get some experience in the 410,” he said.

In addition, Pokorski’s father, Paul, who wrapped up his stellar career as a regular full-time competitor at the conclusion of the 2021 season, is expected to make selected starts in the seat of Spyder Akright’s 53A PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Car in 2024.

The 32-year veteran competed in 11 PDTR-MSA events during the 2023 campaign, posting one top-five, four top-10 and six top-15 A-main finishes to go along with one B main victory.

The highlight of Paul’s 2023 season was a third-place podium A-main finish at The Plymouth Dirt Track on Aug. 12. With Paul sharing driving duties with Spyder Akright, the 53A Akright Auto car finished 14th in the 2023 PDTR and MSA 360 Sprint Car point standings while competing in all 17 PDTR and 21 of 24 MSA events in 2023.

Sponsors and supporters for Alex Pokorski and the 2024 Akright Auto Racing Team include Akright Auto, Mulch Express of Wisconsin, Countryside Designs, Goeden Auto Body, Petersen Septic Systems, Wisconsin Bank and Trust, Professional Plating, Ace Hardware (Kiel and Sheboygan Falls locations), Cedar Valley Hunt Club, Real Estate Property Shop-Sue Erdmann, Bonafide Security Solutions, Novak’s Service Center, RC Custom Design and Pedal Down Promotions.

For more information on Alex Pokorski and the No. 4 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 – 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 4
2024 Schedule

Saturday, April 20 – Beaver Dam Raceway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA 410)
Saturday, April 27 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Saturday, May 4 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Saturday, May 11 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Saturday, May 18 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Saturday, June 1 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Sunday, June 2 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (MSA 360)
Saturday, June 8 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Saturday, June 15 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Saturday, June 22 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Saturday, June 29 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Saturday, July 6 – Eagle River Speedway, Eagle River, Wis. (MSA 360)
Saturday, July 13 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Sunday, July 14 – Angell Park Speedway, Sun Prairie, Wis. (MSA 360)
Saturday, July 20 – Plymouth Dirt Track Racing, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Friday, July 26 – Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (MSA 360)
Saturday, July 27 – Plymouth Dirt Track Racing, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Saturday, August 3 – Plymouth Dirt Track Racing, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Saturday, August 10 – Plymouth Dirt Track Racing, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Saturday, August 17 – Plymouth Dirt Track Racing, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Friday, August 23 – Plymouth Dirt Track Racing, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Saturday, August 24 – To Be Determined (MSA 360)
Saturday, August 31 – Plymouth Dirt Track Racing, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)
Friday, September 20 – Wilmot Raceway, Wilmot, Wis. (MSA 360)
Saturday, September 28–Plymouth Dirt Track Racing, Plymouth, Wis. (PDTR-MSA 360)

 Additional 410 Sprint Car races to be announced

Alex Pokorski
Akright Auto Racing Team 4
Final 2023 Statistics

Total Events – 24
A Main Victories – 1
B Main Victories – 0
Top Five A Main Finishes – 12
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 21
Top 15 A Main Finishes – 23
Heat Race Victories – 4
Fast Qualifier Awards – 2
Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car Points Finish – 4th
Midwest Sprint Car Association Points Finish – 4th

Paul Pokorski
Akright Auto 53A
2023 Season
By The Numbers

Total Events – 11
A Main Victories – 0
B Main Victories – 1
Top Five A Main Finishes – 1
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 4
Top 15 A Main Finishes – 6
Heat Race Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0
PDTR 360 Sprint Car Points Finish co-driving with Spyder Akright – 14th
MSA 360 Sprint Car Points Finish co-driving with Spyder Akright – 14th

S.L. Wilton returns with epic fantasy novel sequel ‘Crows and Wyverns’

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) April 8, 2024 – Three years after releasing his debut epic fantasy novel, S.L. Wilton is back to take readers on another suspense-filled journey through the complex, mysterious and dangerous world he created in “Queen of Crows” with a multi-faceted female main character once again at the forefront in his second novel, a sequel titled “Crows and Wyverns”.

Published through Pedal Down Promotions of Manitowoc, Wis., “Crows and Wyverns” showcases Wilton’s unique ability to weave together epic fantasy and magical realism storytelling, while detailing a highly intricate and vividly defined world filled with power struggles, passionate encounters and ominous forces.

The Wisconsin resident drew on his love of reading to release “Queen of Crows” in 2021, which was met with both strong reader interest and critical acclaim, including a spring 2023 nod as The BookFest Awards prize winner.

A retired 20-year U.S. Army veteran, being an avid reader all his life, Wilton thought about writing an epic fantasy novel for many years before unleashing his creative vision in “Queen of Crows”.

“I had the basic idea for my first novel in my head for a while,” Wilton said. “Then I read a poorly constructed fantasy novel and thought I could do better. Most fantasy stories are formulaic with a male lead. I thought a female lead should step up to save the world and herself.

Like his first novel, “Crows and Wyverns” is a fantasy novel set in a medieval European setting.

“It follows a character from the first book, but rounds out the first book’s main character’s story,” Wilton said. “It also expands the world the story takes place in. For me, it’s very satisfying to see a complex story idea get fleshed out and come to an appropriate end.

“I write with an adult audience in mind, but I tell people, mature young readers of 14 or older will find the books enjoyable,” he said. “There is violence and some sexual innuendo, but no on-the-page sex.”

“Crows and Wyverns” 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.

“The book will be available on most online outlets,” Wilton said. “I do several in-person book sale/signing events each year in Wisconsin and have a few scheduled this year with the plan of adding more.”

For more information on S.L. Wilton, author of “Crows and Wyverns, and Queen of Crows” visit https://slwilton.com, Facebook and X (Twitter).

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

Everlasting Living Memories captures life’s cherished moments

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Daryl Duchatschek launched Everlasting Living Memories in March 2021 as a videography business focusing on legacy, sports and tribute videos designed to preserve the memories of loved ones. – Everlasting Living Memories photo

OSHKOSH, WIS. (January 26, 2024) – The colorful, complex and everlasting fabric of life is commonly weaved together with memories of loved ones, special events and key moments in time.

With over 10 years of experience in the videography field, Oshkosh, Wis. resident Daryl Duchatschek is aiming to produce videos highlighting the people, places and things, which hit close to the heart, mind and soul through his video-creation business – Everlasting Living Memories.

Launched in March 2021, Everlasting Living Memories features a range of video packages designed to appeal to a wide variety of individuals, businesses, organizations and teams.

“Everlasting Living Memories offers Legacy Videos, which provide an opportunity to give someone the gift of a lifetime by capturing their life story recorded on film,” Duchatschek said. “A Legacy Video includes a filmed and edited interview with those who live in senior living, assisted living or in hospice. The biography is put together with family photos, documents, maps and other sources of information. We will also add titles and music throughout the video. The result is a video that captures loved ones as they recount their life story and family history. This is a one-hour video collection filmed either on location or on Zoom ranging from early childhood up to the present day.

“I have to credit Jeff Larson for giving me this idea,” he said. “I thought it was a great idea to give people the opportunity to obtain a video created for their loved ones to pass on to family and friends, which can be remembered for many years after the video recording ends.”

In addition to traditional, life-spanning Legacy Videos, the Oshkosh native also shoots, edits and produces Sports Legacy Videos and Video Tributes.

Everlasting Living Memories owner Daryl Duchatschek of Oshkosh gained valuable experience serving as the official videographer for the weekly races at the Oshkosh Speedway dirt race track. – Everlasting Living Memories photo

“A Sports Legacy Video is a filmed and edited interview of an individual, along with family, friends and colleagues, with a legacy in a given sport,” Duchatschek said. “In addition, someone can be honored by telling their story in a Video Tribute, which typically captures comments from family and friends, along with photos, home movies and new video footage set to music and narrated by a loved one, who will tell the individual’s story. The Video Tribute provides an amazing keepsake featuring long-lasting memories of the individual when they are gone.”

Duchatschek’s passion for videography stems from his initial introduction to the world of video creation as a teenager.

“In high school we had an in-school television station,” Duchatschek said. “My interest started there. After moving away from it for a period of time, I got back into videography in 2014 when I became the lead videographer for dirt track races at the Oshkosh Speedzone.”

Over the past 12 years, Duchatschek has cultivated valuable video training and videography experience in a broad array of settings.

“In 2012, I had a friend who worked at a local peg [public access] channel called Oshkosh Media,” Duchatschek said. “I became a volunteer to learn how video production works in all of the phases. I attended Full Sail University for some time, so I was able to learn about storytelling and how to work in the video production industry.”

“My video portfolio consists of videography work for some businesses like the Oshkosh Speedzone,” he said. “I would video record the racing events of the evening and send footage to the race promoters and also to drivers and fans who wanted a video product of the races. I would edit the footage that was made available for purchase. I did an internship at 4Imprint where I learned to conduct a session with a person from the company, create storytelling and organize the shoot. After the shoot was completed, I would edit the video product and place it on the 4Imprint YouTube channel. I am also experienced in live streaming through the work I do at my church. In this role, I set up the live stream and camera angles and prepare to launch the video recording just before the service starts.”

Duchatschek is eager to carry his videography talents forward in creating videos, which pull on heartstrings while telling intriguing life stories.

“When I do videography, I think my passion for doing something I really like to do is on full display,” Duchatschek said. “Helping those interested in having a video done for them, filming projects and video editing are passions I truly enjoy.

“My long-term goal is to be successful in the video business industry,” he said. “The overall goal is to help clients showcase memories by sharing their loved ones’ experiences in life in video form. My hope is to keep Everlasting Living Memories going strong for generations to come.”

Snippets of Duchatschek’s videography work can be viewed on the Everlasting Living Memories YouTube Channel.

“Everlasting Living Memories has a YouTube Channel where samples can be viewed to get a better understanding of what we have to offer,” Duchatschek said. “The YouTube link is https://www.youtube.com/@darylduchatschek6935/videos.”

For more information on Everlasting Living Memories, call 920-410-4379, email everlastinglivingememories@gmail.com or visit everlastinglivingmemories.com.

Local racing legends poised for Plymouth Racing Class of 2024 Wall of Fame induction

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions 

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) December 11, 2023 – A new group of eight drivers, three track workers and one racing family will join an esteemed list of dirt track racing standouts enshrined on the Plymouth Racing Wall of Fame as part of the Class of 2024 induction ceremony Saturday, July 13, 2024 at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis.

In recognition of the spirit of competition and outstanding achievements at the Plymouth racing facility over the past 74 years, the Plymouth Racing Wall of Fame Committee formed in late 2021 with a goal of recognizing individuals who have exemplified dirt track racing at the highest level since The Plymouth Dirt Track’s inception in 1950.

The members of the Plymouth Racing Wall of Fame Class of 2024 will be recognized during a special induction ceremony at intermission of the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing program at The Plymouth Dirt Track at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, July 13, 2024.

The Plymouth Racing Wall of Fame Class of 2024 includes the following eight drivers.

                        Fuzzy Fassbender

FUZZY FASSBENDER – Nicknamed “The Hound,” the Rubicon, Wis. driver began his highly successful racing career in 1949 comparing primarily at tracks throughout the Milwaukee area, while topping the Milwaukee Stock Car circuit point standings in 1962. Fassbender began racing at Plymouth in 1975 finishing third in the final Eastern Wisconsin Stock Car Winged Modified point standings in 1975 and 1976, while winning four feature races in 1976. Fassbender piloted purple cars throughout his career, including a well-known Gremlin model.

                         Donny Goeden

DONNY GOEDEN – The Kewaskum, Wis. driver began racing in the Eastern Wisconsin Stock Car Winged Modified division in 1985 and won two feature races in 1987. Goeden earned back-to-back EWSC Winged Modified titles in 1992 and 1993, while collecting two feature wins in 1992 and four main event victories in 1993. Goeden collected four feature wins in 1994 before turning his attention to the Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series. Goeden later returned to compete regularly at Plymouth in the 360 Sprint Car division winning three straight track championships in 2014, 2015 and 2016 and tallying a total of 21 career PDTR 360 Sprint Car A-main victories.

                              Dave Haag

DAVE HAAG – The Plymouth, Wis. driver opened his racing career in the EWSC Hobby Stock division in 1980, earning feature victories during the 1980 and 1982 seasons. After finishing second in the EWSC Hobby Stock division in 1982, Haag was crowned as the Hobby Stock track champion at Plymouth in 1983, while capturing four feature victories. He went on to compete for a number of years in the EWSC Sportsman division.

                           Steve Hoffmann

STEVE HOFFMANN – The Plymouth, Wis. competitor began racing at The Plymouth Dirt Track in 1981 before capturing three straight Eastern Wisconsin Stock Car Limited Late Model championships at Plymouth in 1996, 1997 and 1998. Hoffmann’s three straight track titles ties him with Gary Laack and Donny Goeden for the third most consecutive championships in track history.

                     Randy Markwardt

RANDY MARKWARDT – Hailing from Sheboygan, Wis., “The Mighty” Markwardt, who began his racing career in 1977, won the EWSC Sportsman title at Plymouth in 1993 and captured an EWSC Limited Late Model crown in 1999. A fan favorite throughout his lengthy racing career, Markwardt placed sixth in the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Late Model division in 2017. To promote his Markwardt Sales & Service family business, Markwardt carried a Mighty Mouse with wheels holding a wrench logo on some of his race cars.

                          Pete Ostrowski

PETE OSTROWSKI – After competing in Sprint Cars and Modifieds primarily at Wilmot Raceway in the early portion of his racing career, the Milwaukee, Wis. driver started racing full time at The Plymouth Dirt Track in 1991, claiming one fast time and one feature victory in his debut season. Utilizing an aggressive, cushion-pounding driving style, Ostrowski went on to become one of the most accomplished EWSC Winged Super Modified drivers in the history of The Plymouth Dirt Track. He captured a total of four track championships at Plymouth in 1994, 1996, 1997 and 2001 and won four main events in 2003 before claiming his 50th career feature victory in 2004.

                             Steve Schad

STEVE SCHAD – Racing out of Cleveland, Wis., Schad placed second in the EWSC Hobby Stock division in 1983, while racking up seven feature race victories. He then won back-to-back Hobby Stock track titles at Plymouth in 1984 and 1985, while tallying a total of 14 main event wins over the course of both championship seasons.

                               K.J. Skelton

K. J. SKELTON – The Cascade, Wis. driver began his career in the EWSC Winged Super Modified division as a teenager in 1987. His hard charging nature netted him runner-up showings in the highly competitive Winged Super Modified division at The Plymouth Dirt Track in 1991, 1992 and 1993, while claiming two feature victories and eight fast qualifier awards during the 1993 campaign. Skelton finally broke through to capture the 1995 EWSC Winged Super Modified track title on the strength of five feature victories and three fast qualifier awards. His final EWSC Winged Super Modified feature victory came in 1996 before moving on to compete in the 360 and 410 Sprint Car ranks.

Plymouth Racing Wall of Fame Class of 2024 inductees in the Dedication to Racing category include longtime flagman Bill Krueger, who also served as a pit crew member and car sponsor, along with track workers Lee Glomski and John Laack.

               McMullen Family

In addition, the McMullen family, which features three generations of racers (Jerry, Tim and Brandon) will be inducted as part of the Plymouth Wall of Fame Class of 2024 in the Racing Families category. After Jerry forged the way for the McMullen family as a competitor in the early days of racing at the Plymouth Dirt Track, Tim was a top competitor in the EWSC Winged Super Modified division from 1993 through the mid-2000s. In recent years, Tim’s son, Brandon, has been a force in the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car division, earning three track titles in 2017, 2020 and 2023, while claiming a division record 33 PDTR 360 Sprint Car A-main victories.

The names of each Class of 2024 inductee will be permanently etched on the Plymouth Racing Wall of Fame, located underneath the grandstand at The Plymouth Dirt Track racing facility.

The Plymouth Racing Wall of Fame Class of 2024 Induction Night event is scheduled to include a driver meet-and-greet and autograph session prior to the racing program, as well as photo and memorabilia displays showcasing the racing careers and accomplishments of the Class of 2024 Wall of Fame honorees.

In addition, past Plymouth Racing Wall of Fame inductees are invited to take part in the evening’s festivities, including the meet-and-greet autograph session. In the event of inclement weather on Saturday, July 13, a make-up date for the Plymouth Racing Wall of Fame Class of 2024 Induction Ceremony has been set for Saturday, July 20, 2024.

Family members of 2024 Plymouth Racing Wall of Fame inductees and past Class of 2022 and Class of 2023 Wall of Fame inductees are encouraged to attend the induction event at The Plymouth Dirt Track on Saturday, July 13, 2024.

Family members of Class of 2024 inductees and past Plymouth Racing Wall of Fame inductees wishing to attend are asked to contact Ken Schulz in advance of the Class of 2024 Wall of Fame Induction Night event at kenschulz91@gmail.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.

Arenz makes his mark in rookie IRA 410 Sprint Car campaign

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Travis Arenz (25T) capped off his rookie season of full-time Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series competition with a third place finish in the final 2023 point standings. – RC Custom Design photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) November 30, 2023 – After claiming back-to-back Midwest Sprint Car Association and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car titles in 2021 and 2022, Travis Arenz and the Travis Arenz Motorsports team made a successful leap to 410 Sprint Car competition as a full-time entrant with the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series during the 2023 season.

Arenz’s first full season in the 410 Sprint Car ranks turned heads as he earned his first career IRA A-main victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, July 1 to go along with a total of 12 top-five and 15 top-10 A-main showings, as well as three heat race victories, seven dash appearances and two dash victories in 28 410 Sprint Car events in 2023.

On the strength of his impressive third place showing in the final 2023 Bumper to Bumper IRA 410 Sprint Car Series point standings, Arenz claimed the Sage Fruit-Hepfner Racing Products Apple Cup Award for finishing as the second-highest point-earning rookie driver in the final 2023 IRA point standings.

The 16th-year racer opened the 2023 IRA campaign with a doubleheader weekend at 34 Raceway in West Burlington, Iowa, during which he missed an A-main transfer spot by one position with a third place finish in the first B main on Friday, April 7 before placing fifth in the second B main on Saturday, April 8.

On April 15, Arenz returned to more familiar territory as he charged from his 15th starting spot to place fifth in IRA A-main action at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis.

After starting sixth in a non-sanctioned 410 Sprint Car A-main event at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on May 6, the Sheboygan Falls, Wis. driver finished in the runner-up spot behind race winner Bill Balog. The second place showing equaled Arenz’s previous career-best 410 Sprint Car finish, which also came at Wilmot Raceway in a Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series event on Aug. 27, 2022.

In his Tezos All Star Circuit of Champions 410 Sprint Car Series debut, Arenz placed 14th in A-main action at Wilmot Raceway on May 13.

After suffering a blown motor in hot laps, Arenz switched to a backup car for the remainder of an IRA event at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on May 20. However, contact in heat race competition resulted in a flip, which relegated Arenz to the B main where he ended his night with an eighth-place finish. Arenz rebounded the following night to finish seventh in A-main action at Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie, Wis. on May 21.

During an IRA doubleheader weekend at Wilmot Raceway on May 27 and 141 Speedway in Francis Creek, Wis. on May 28, Arenz posted eighth place and fifth place A-main showings respectively.

Arenz, who began his racing career in the Outlaw Compact 4-cylinder division at The Plymouth Dirt Track in 2008, entered a pair of All Star-IRA events at the Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on June 1 and The Plymouth Dirt Track for the annual Rayce Rudeen Foundation race on June 2, during which he finished fifth in the B main to just miss out on an A-main transfer spot at Dodge County and placed 20th in A-main action at Plymouth.

Travis Arenz and the members of the Travis Arenz Motorsports team celebrated their first career Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series A-main victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, July 1, 2023.  – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

In his Sycamore Speedway debut on June 10, Arenz won the second IRA dash to start second and equal his career-best IRA finish with a second place A-main showing at the Maple Grove, Ill. facility before placing fifth in A-main action at Angell Park Speedway on June 11.

Arenz then earned a fourth place finish in IRA A-main competition in his first appearance at Fairbury American Legion Speedway in Fairbury, Ill. on June 24.

The highlight of Arenz’s 2023 season came on July 1 when he advanced from the sixth starting spot to claim his first career IRA 410 Sprint Car Series A-main victory in the 30-lap Scott Semmelmann Memorial event at The Plymouth Dirt Track. The win marked Arenz’s 37th overall career A-main victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track in four different divisions (Outlaw Compact 4-Cylinder, B Mod (Sport Mod), 360 Sprint Car and 410 Sprint Car), as well as his 71st career A-main triumph.

After starting 14th in an IRA-NOSA main event at I-94 emr Speedway in Fergus Falls, Minn. on July 13, Arenz retired from the race with a broken throttle linkage and was scored 23rd. During an IRA-NOSA doubleheader at River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks, N.D. on July 14-15, Arenz posted 12th and 11th place A-main finishes respectively.

An IRA doubleheader weekend at The Plymouth Dirt Track and Wilmot Raceway on July 28 and July 29, netted Arenz a pair of fifth place A-main showings.

After turning in a 22nd to 11th place A-main charge during the annual Kenosha County Fair race at Wilmot Raceway on Aug. 19, Arenz posted a second place showing during the IRA Corn Fest event at Angel Park Speedway on Aug. 20.

Five days later, Arenz notched a ninth place finish in IRA’s return visit to 34 Raceway on Aug. 25. On Sept. 1 at the Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway, Arenz turned to a backup car for the A main, after his primary car suffered engine issues in heat race action. In the main event, Arenz came home 15th.

Arenz returned to his home track – The Plymouth Dirt Track – during the Sheboygan County Fair on Sept. 2, during which he won the first IRA dash and led the first four laps of the A main from the pole before settling for a fourth place finish.

In his debut at Gondik Law Speedway in Superior, Wis. on Sept. 8, Arenz placed fourth in the main event. However, a serious motor issue was discovered prior to the Jerry Richert Memorial IRA race at Cedar Lake Speedway on Sept. 9, which forced the team to scratch from the event and left it without a 410 motor for the remainder of the 2023 season.

With an underpowered 360 motor bolted in for the 2023 lid-sealing IRA Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track on Sept. 30, Arenz started 18th and advanced to seventh in the B main to fall three spots short of earning an A-main transfer spot.

“I learned a lot in my rookie season with the IRA,” Arenz said. “I’m also proud of what we accomplished with the small budget we had this year compared to others that we race with. I want to thank all of our great sponsors, especially those who have stuck with us over all these years. They are very much appreciated. I also want to thank our many, many fans and, of course, all my crew members. Plans for 2024 are uncertain at the moment. Regardless, we will still have a 410 car in the shop.”

The 2023 Travis Arenz Motorsports sponsorship partners include Professional Plating Inc., Service One Transportation, Inc, Don and Lynn Kiel, Oostburg Concrete, Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Schoen’s Wildlife Removal, Premier Insurance Solutions-Craig Ladwig, Pallet Works, DW Fence, Little Bears Tree Service LLC, Lake Auto Glass and Service, Myhre Construction LLC, Roth’s Auto Restoration, Hair Fellers Barbershop, Fastenal of Plymouth, Jensen Sales and Service, Humphrey’s Turner Hall Bar & Grill, Carbliss Hand Crafted Cocktails, Amy Bruechert Reality, Cornwell Tools-Paul Epping, Advanced Engine Concepts, Inc., Duehring’s Tax Service, Everhope Show Cattle, HRP Wings and Behling Racing Equipment.

The 2023 Travis Arenz Motorsports team consists of pit crew members Greg Piedot, Jerrod Gamb, Emily Stadler, Cameron Fritz, Bobby Bonelli and Trevor Hittman (public relations).

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 – Duehring’s Tax Service

Travis Arenz Motorsports would like to acknowledge Duehring’s Tax Service for its support during the team’s rookie season of competition with the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series in 2023.

Located at 615 South Eighth St., Suite 110-6 in Sheboygan, Wis., Duehring’s Tax Service is a local, family-owned business specializing in tax preparation services.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Duehring’s Tax Service via email at bneils09@gmail.com or by calling 920-452-8665.

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
410 Sprint Car
Final 2023 Statistics

Total Events – 28
IRA Events – 27
All Star Events – 3
A Main Victories – 1
Top Five A Main Finishes – 12
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 15
Top 15 A Main Finishes – 20
Top 20 A Main Finishes – 21
Heat Race Victories – 3
B Main Victories – 0
Dash Appearances – 7
Dash Victories – 2
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0
Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association Final Points Finish – 3rd

 

Travis Arenz Motorsports
360 Sprint Car
Final 2023 Statistics

Total MSA-PDTR Events – 2
A Main Victories – 0
Top Five A Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
B Main Victories – 1
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

 

Travis Arenz Motorsports
Career Highlights
2008-2023

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

Hartmann’s sophomore 410 Sprint Car season nets second top-10 IRA points showing

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

In his second season of full-time 410 Sprint Car competition, Austin Hartmann earned a ninth place showing in the final 2023 Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series point standings. – RC Custom Design photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) November 29, 2023 – After a completing a promising rookie Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series campaign in 2022 in just his third year behind the wheel of a race car, Austin Hartmann came back to register a solid second season in the seat of the 87A Hartmann Racing 410 Sprint Car during the 2023 campaign.

In all, Hartmann’s demanding six-month 2023 season schedule featured trips to 14 different tracks in six states with the team placing ninth in the final IRA point standings. Along with completing the full IRA slate, Hartmann mixed in additional races with the NOS Energy Drink World of Outlaws 410 Sprint Car Series and Tezos All Star Circuit of Champion 410 Sprint Car Series, while sprinkling in non-sanctioned events at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. and Butler Speedway in Quincy, Mich.

In 33 410 Sprint Car events during the 2023 season, Hartmann tallied one top-five, six top-10 and 12 top-15 A-main showings, while recording two heat race victories and six IRA dash appearances.

After turning in a 10th place showing in the 2022 IRA 410 Sprint Car Series point standings during his rookie season, Hartmann closed out his second full season of IRA 410 Sprint Car Series action one spot better with a ninth place showing in the final 2023 point standings.

The Plymouth, Wis. driver opened the 2023 IRA schedule with a ninth place effort in B-main competition at 34 Raceway in West Burlington, Iowa on April 7 before placing sixth in B-main action on April 8.

After finishing fifth in the second IRA dash to claim the 10th A-main starting spot in the 30-lap A-main event at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on April 15, Hartmann did not turn another competitive lap for the remainder of the program. Shortly after pushing off for the 30-lap A main, a broken component in the driveline of the 87A Hartmann Racing machine forced Hartmann to leave the track and retire to the pit area for the remainder of the event. He was listed 22nd in the final race rundown.

The highlight of Hartmann’s 2023 season followed on May 6 as he turned in a career-best fifth place showing in a non-sanctioned 410 Sprint Car A-main event at Wilmot Raceway.

A doubleheader weekend of competition with the Tezos All Star Circuit of Champions netted a ninth place B main showing at Jacksonville Speedway in Jacksonville, Ill. on Friday, May 12 and a 20th place A-main finish in a co-sanctioned All Star-IRA event at Wilmot Raceway on Saturday, May 13.

Hartmann’s best A-main showing of the 2023 IRA season came one week later as he turned in an eighth place finish at The Plymouth Dirt Track on May 20.

The ensuing three IRA events netted a 17th place finish at Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie, Wis. on May 21, a 12th place showing at Wilmot Raceway on May 27 and a 13th place finish at 141 Speedway in Francis Creek, Wis. on May 28.

Another doubleheader weekend of Tezos All Star Circuit of Champions action resulted in a 10th place B-main showing at the Dodge County Fairgrounds in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Friday, June 2 before Hartmann came home 25th in the annual Rayce Rudeen Foundation A-main event at The Plymouth Dirt Track on Saturday, June 3.

The following weekend saw Hartmann tally a pair of top-15 A-main finishes in IRA competition as he came home ninth at Sycamore Speedway in Maple Grove, Ill. on June 10 and placed 12th at Angell Park Speedway on June 11.

Hartmann joined the NOS Energy Drink World of Outlaws Series for a pair of events at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on June 16-17, coming away with 20th place finishes in both A-main events.

After taking 10th place in IRA A-main competition at Fairbury Speedway in Fairbury, Ill. on June 24, Hartmann finished 15th in IRA main event action at The Plymouth Dirt Track on July 1.

A stirring heat race run saw Hartmann qualify directly into a NOS Energy Drink World of Outlaws Series A main at Wilmot Raceway on July 8. A lap 6 heat race pass for fifth place earned Hartmann his third World of Outlaws series A-main start of the 2023 season and his first interview with World of Outlaws Pit Reporter Chase Raudman before capping the night with a 19th place finish in A-main action.

A long trip to Minnesota and North Dakota followed with Hartmann placing 19th in IRA A-main action at I-94 emr Speedway in Fergus Falls, Minn. on July 13 before taking 10th in main event competition at River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks, N.D. on July 14 and a 20th place A-main finish on July 15.

After qualifying third in the 25-lap field, rain washed out main event action at Outagamie Speedway in Seymour, Wis. on July 21, Hartmann and the 87A Hartmann Racing team notched a strong sixth place A-main showing in a non-sanctioned 410 Sprint Car event at Butler Speedway in Quincy, Mich, on July 22.

Hartmann then posted 22nd and 19th place A-main finishes in IRA events at The Plymouth Dirt Track and Wilmot Raceway respectively on July 28 and July 29.

Following a two-week break from competition, Hartmann finished 10th in an IRA B main at Wilmot Raceway on Aug. 19 before placing 14th in an IRA A main at Angell Park on Aug. 20.

Hartmann escaped without injury, following a hard crash and ensuing fire in his No. 87 machine, during IRA heat race action at 34 Raceway on Aug. 25.

The final month of the 2023 season saw Hartmann record top-20 A-main finishes in IRA events at Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway on Sept. 1 (19th), The Plymouth Dirt Track on Sept. 2 (19th), Gondik Law Speedway in Superior, Wis. on Sept. 8 (15th), Cedar Lake Speedway in New Richmond, Wis. on Sept. 9 (15th) and The Plymouth Dirt Track on Sept. 30 (20th).

“I would like to thank all of the sponsors, crew members, family, friends and fans, who have helped me live out my dream of racing a 410 Sprint Car at track across the Midwest,” Hartmann said. “I appreciate everything they have done over the past two years.”

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.

The sponsorship partners for the 2023 87A Hartmann Racing team include Kristine Hartmann of Pleasant View Realty, Shufflebotham Tree Service, Competition Specialists, Schmidt’s Landscaping, Feldmann Sales & Service, Holler n Hills, Steinpreis Trucking, KSI Supply Inc., Quasius Construction, SwitchGear Brewing LLC, TheD8Dispensary, AF Inc., Hopf Farms, RC Custom Design, Hepfner Racing Products, Berryman Racing Shocks and Maxim Chassis.

The 2023 87A Hartmann Racing team consists of Hunter Annis, Eric Bergschultz, Parker Annis, Karlee Hartmann, Andrew Shufflebotham and Kristine Hartmann.

87A Hartmann Racing Sponsor Showcase – TheD8Dispensary

The Austin Hartmann – 87A Hartmann Racing team was thrilled to have TheD8Dispensary on board as a sponsorship partner for the 2023 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.

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
Final 2023 Statistics

Total Events – 33
IRA Events – 27
World of Outlaws Events – 3
All Star Events – 4
A Main Victories – 0
B Main Victories – 0
Top Five A Main Finishes – 1
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 6
Top 15 A Main Finishes – 12
Top 20 A Main Finishes – 23
Heat Race Victories – 2
Dash Appearances – 6
Dash Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0
Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association Points Finish – 9th

Breakthrough 2023 campaign vaults Alex Pokorski to most improved, top-five status  

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Alex Pokorski earned his first career Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car Series A-main victory at the Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Friday, June 2. – RC Custom Design photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) November 28, 2023 – In his fourth overall and second full-time season behind the wheel of a 360 Sprint Car, Alex Pokorski firmly established himself as a consistently strong, top-flight competitor in the Akright Auto Midwest Sprint Car Association and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car competition throughout the 2023 campaign.

Following an up-and-down debut season in the seat of the Spyder Akright-owned Akright Auto Racing Team No. 4 car, which saw him place 15th in the final MSA point standings and 14th in the PDTR points race in 2022, the West Bend, Wis. driver showcased his skills out right of the gate with a new Triple X chassis, fresh motor and updated equipment at his disposal in 2023.

While competing in all 24 events during the 2023 MSA-PDTR campaign, Pokorski earned his first career MSA 360 Sprint Car A-main victory at the Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Friday, June 2, while notching a total of 12 top-five, 21 top-10 and 23 top-15 A-main showings. In addition, Pokorski tallied four heat race victories and two fast qualifier awards during the 2023 season.

After advancing from 14th in 2022 to fourth in the 2023 PDTR 360 Sprint Car point standings and moving up from 15th to fourth in the final 2023 MSA 360 Sprint Car Series points race, Pokorski claimed the 2023 Most Improved Driver Award in both PDTR and MSA competition.

In addition, Pokorski’s father, Paul, who wrapped up his stellar career as a regular full-time competitor at the conclusion of the 2021 season, returned to the cockpit on a limited basis in Spyder Akright’s 53A PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Car. The 31-year veteran competed in 11 PDTR-MSA events during the 2023 campaign, posting one top-five, four top-10 and six top-15 A-main finishes to go along with one B main victory.

The highlight of Paul’s 2023 season was a third-place podium A-main finish at The Plymouth Dirt Track on Aug. 12. With Paul sharing driving duties with Spyder Akright, the 53A Akright Auto car finished 14th in the 2023 PDTR and MSA 360 Sprint Car point standings while competing in all 17 PDTR and 21 of 24 MSA events in 2023.

Alex Pokorski roared out of the gate to record a career-best equaling fifth place showing in the 2023 PDTR 360 Sprint Car season opener at The Plymouth Dirt Track on Saturday, May 6.

One week later, Pokorski charged from his 10th starting position to earn his first career A-main podium finish with a third place effort at The Plymouth Dirt Track on Saturday, May 13.

On Saturday, May 20, Pokorski was running second in A-main action when he was collected in an incident involving two slower cars. After the crew made repairs in the pit area, the fourth-year 360 Sprint Car racer rebounded to salvage a 14th place finish.

The Alex Pokorski-Akright Auto Racing Team ventured to Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. for an MSA event on Saturday, May 27, which saw Pokorski pick up a ninth place showing.

The crowning achievement of Pokorski’s Sprint Car racing career thus far came six days later in an MSA event at the sprawling half-mile Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Friday, June 2, as Pokorski led all 20 laps of the A main from the pole to notch his first career MSA A-main triumph.

Pokorski capped off a tripleheader weekend of action with a fifth place A-main showing at Plymouth on June 3 and a 10th place finish at Angell Park Speedway in Angell Park, Wis. on June 4.

After placing seventh in a PDTR 360 Sprint Car A main on June 10, Pokorski led the first 18 laps of the June 17 A main at The Plymouth Dirt Track before settling for a third place finish. He went one spot better on June 24 to record a second-place A-main showing at Plymouth.

Following a sixth place A-main showing at Plymouth on July 1, Pokorski tallied his first career fast qualifier award at Plymouth on July 8 before placing eighth in the main event.

Alex Pokorski (4) and his father, Paul Pokorski (53A), battle near the front of the field in Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car competition at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. during the 2023 season. – RC Custom Design photo

After enduring a flip and several caution flags in A-main action at the Plymouth Dirt Track on July 15, Pokorski rallied to earn a 10th place showing before coming home sixth in MSA competition at Angell Park Speedway on July 16.

Alex then placed fifth at Plymouth on July 28 before recording a fourth place showing in the MSA’s first-ever appearance at Eagle River Speedway in Eagle River, Wis. on July 29.

On Aug. 5, Pokorski improved 10 spots in the main event, advancing from his 17th starting spot to place seventh in PDTR 360 Sprint Car action at The Plymouth Dirt Track.

Both Alex and his father, Paul Pokorski, enjoyed a memorable night on Aug. 12 at Plymouth as Paul led the first five laps from the pole before recording a strong third place A-main finish in Spyder Akright’s 53A car, while Alex followed close behind to finish fourth in the main event.

Paul and Alex recorded a pair of top-10 A-main showings at Plymouth on Aug. 19 with Paul placing ninth and Alex taking 10th. One week later, Alex finished third at Plymouth on Aug. 25 before rebounding from an early incident in the A main to place 14th in MSA A-main action at Wilmot Raceway on Aug. 26.

Alex Pokorski earned the 2023 Akright Auto Midwest Sprint Car Association Most Improved Driver Award at the annual Midwest Sprint Car Association Awards Banquet held Saturday, Nov. 11 at Amore Banquet Hall in Plymouth, Wis. – RC Custom Design photo

Alex placed fourth in A-main action at the Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway on Friday, Sept. 1 before leading the first eight laps and coming home second in A-main competition at The Plymouth Dirt Track during the annual Sheboygan County Fair on Saturday, Sept. 2.

The 2023 PDTR-MSA season came to a close with Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at Plymouth on Saturday, Sept. 30 as contact with the back stretch wall in the early stages of the A main ended Alex’s night early with a 21st place finish. The race marked the only time Alex failed to finish an A-main and his lone time placing outside of the top 15 in MSA 360 Sprint Car main event action during the 2023 campaign.

Alex Pokorski is grateful for the support of the team’s sponsors, crew members, family, friends and fans during the 2023 season.

“The 2023 season was a lot of fun,” Pokorski said. “I feel blessed to have had all the people around me who made it possible. I hope they all enjoyed it as well. We had a big improvement from last year, which got us up to a fourth place finish in MSA points. I will be back racing with Spyder and the Akright Auto Racing Team again in 2024. I’m really excited to have that opportunity again, and I am looking forward to improving further.

“Our plan for the 2024 season is to run the MSA schedule again and do a few 410 races as well,” he said.

After competing in just two 360 Sprint Car events in 2022, Paul Pokorski relished the opportunity to race Spyder Akright’s 53A car in 11 events during the 2023 season.

“The season was a lot of fun,” We all had a good time. The entire Akright Auto Racing and Pokorski Motorsports team is looking forward to 2024.”

Sponsors and supporters for Alex Pokorski and the 2023 Akright Auto Racing Team include Akright Auto, Petersen Septic Systems, Goeden Auto Body, Novak’s Service Center, Mulch Express of Wisconsin, Countryside Designs, Wisconsin Bank and Trust, Homestead Auto, Cedar Valley Hunt Club, Bumper to Bumper Auto Parts, RC Custom Design and Pedal Down Promotions.

For more information on Alex Pokorski and the No. 4 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 51st year in business in 2023.

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 undercar 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 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 4
Final 2023 Statistics

Total Events – 24
A Main Victories – 1
B Main Victories – 0
Top Five A Main Finishes – 12
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 21
Top 15 A Main Finishes – 23
Heat Race Victories – 4
Fast Qualifier Awards – 2
Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car Points Finish – 4th
Midwest Sprint Car Association Points Finish – 4th

Paul Pokorski
Akright Auto 53A
2023 Season
By The Numbers

Total Events – 11
A Main Victories – 0
B Main Victories – 1
Top Five A Main Finishes – 1
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 4
Top 15 A Main Finishes – 6
Heat Race Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0
PDTR 360 Sprint Car Points Finish co-driving with Spyder Akright – 14th
MSA 360 Sprint Car Points Finish co-driving with Spyder Akright – 14th

Mulch Express of Wisconsin bolsters high-tech specialty landscaping equipment fleet

Mulch Express of Wisconsin recently added an Express Blower TR-HD to its specialty landscaping equipment fleet.

(NEWTON, WIS.) November 17, 2023 – Since its inception in 2000, Mulch Express of Wisconsin has thrived on the leading edge of the specialty landscaping service industry through an unwavering dedication to expanding and enhancing its multifaceted capabilities for delivering maximum quality satisfaction to its legion of customers.

Over the past 23 years, the Newton, Wis.-based state-of-the-art specialty landscaping company has found its niche as the to-go mulching provider for municipalities, school districts, commercial businesses and residences throughout Northeastern Wisconsin and beyond.

As the lid closes on the 2023 specialty landscaping season, Mulch Express of Wisconsin staff is already looking forward to 2024 with a new piece of high-tech equipment added to its arsenal, designed to help make the material application process even more efficient, effective and eye-pleasing.

“We recently purchased a new piece of equipment that expands our material application capabilities for our customers,” Jensen Wetenkamp of Mulch Express of Wisconsin said. “It is an Express Blower TR-HD. With this piece, we can blow materials more than 20 stories high and 2,000-plus feet away from the machine. With this machine, we can blow aggregate, soil, compost and mulches. We are looking to use it on specialty jobs that consist of high-volume material applications that are typically hard to reach.”

According to Wetenkamp, the newly purchased Express Blower TR-HD has already turned heads for its ability to deliver high octane results for a wide range of projects.

Click here to check out the Express Blower TR-HD in action

“Through the use of the Express Blower TR-HD machine, we have completed jobs such as green roofs, rooftop gardens, high-volume mulch applications, bio retention ponds and a recent job where we installed more than 250 cubic yards of stone into a former storage pit underneath a building,” Wetenkamp said. “This saved the customer thousands of dollars, as we were able to fill the void without having to remove the existing concrete floor.”

Formed in 2000 out of the desire to control the cost and efficiency of installing mulch, bark, soil and playground chips, Mulch Express of Wisconsin has established a strong reputation for offering top-quality mulch, bark, chip and soil blowing services from early spring through late fall, thanks in large part to the expansive spreading capabilities of its top-of-the-line blower truck.

“When we set out to start Mulch Express of Wisconsin, our goal was to reduce the cost of the mulching process and make it more efficient to install,” Wetenkamp said. “We offer pneumatic installation of mulch, bark, chip and soil products to our commercial, residential and institutional customers in our service area.

“We provide a more efficient and cheaper service to the customer,” he said. “We do this by using less men and wheelbarrows and relying more on the high-tech landscaping machines we have available to us, which now includes our new Express Blower TR-HD. Whether it is mulch, bark, playground chips, soil mixes, seeding or light stones and aggregates, our blower truck can install 30-plus cubic yards an hour compared to a person with a wheelbarrow, who is only capable of doing one cubic yard an hour.”

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.

Midwest Sprint Car Association fetes five-time champion McMullen, dishes 2023 special awards

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Five-time Midwest Sprint Car Association champion Brandon McMullen claimed the 2023 MSA Champion Award at the 2023 MSA Awards Banquet at Amore Banquet Hall in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Nov. 11. – RC Custom Design photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) November 11, 2023 – The 25th anniversary Akright Auto Midwest Sprint Car Association 2023 season officially drew to a close, as drivers, crew members, team owners, series officials, partners, supporters, workers and fans congregated at Amore Banquet Hall in Plymouth, Wis. for the annual MSA Awards Banquet on Saturday, Nov. 11.

A total of 145 MSA supporters gathered to honor five-time MSA champion Brandon McMullen of Oshkosh, Wis., along with 15 other point fund-eligible drivers, who competed in at least 85 percent of the 24 official points race programs completed during the 2023 campaign.

MSA President and Treasurer Sheila Leamer opened the evening’s festivities by providing her reflections on the 2023 MSA season.

“We had 26 scheduled nights of competition in 2023 with only two nights lost to mother nature,” Leamer said. “A total of 16 drivers competed in 85 percent of the races to earn eligibility for the point fund, which is over half of the total MSA member drivers we had in 2023. We also had 10 drivers compete in 100 percent of our 2023 races. We averaged 23 cars per night with a high of 33 cars on the final night of the 2023 season on September 30th at Plymouth. We had car counts of 25 cars or more on 10 nights and a total of eight different drivers earned A-main victories in 2023.

“MSA made its first appearance at Eagle River Speedway in 2023, which proved to be an amazing show,” she said. “The crowd and everyone at Eagle River Speedway was very impressed with the racing the MSA put on. It was definitely a night to be proud to be involved with MSA. I was just talking to the Eagle River promoter today about possible dates for 2024. I would like to thank all of the drivers, car owners and crews for their support this year, as well as the fans, who are the reason we are where we are today. Through all of this support, we are one of the strongest Sprint Car groups in the nation.”

Logan Julien collected the 2023 Midwest Sprint Car Association Rookie of the Year Award, during the 2023 MSA Awards Banquet at Amore Banquet Hall in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Nov. 11. – RC Custom Design photo

Leamer, who also served as the master of ceremonies during the program, acknowledged the support of 2023 MSA series title sponsor Akright Auto (Spyder and Jackie Akright), race day sponsors Competition Specialists (fast qualifier award sponsor), Behling Racing Equipment (heat race one and heat race two winner), Waldo Oil (heat race three winner), Butch and Janet Hafemann (heat race fourth winner), Mayer Automotive (B main winner), Professional Plating (hard charger award winner) and event sponsors Adonnis Waterproofing-Anthony and Rachel Knierim (Wilmot Raceway) and RC Custom Design-Rob Eisentraut (Eagle River Speedway), along with Brian Julien of The Julien Shade Shop, which sponsored the MSA Safety Team in 2023.

“We greatly appreciate the support of Akright Auto as our 2023 series title sponsor,” Leamer said. “Just before I came up here, Spyder [Akright] told me Akright Auto is in for another year as series title sponsor in 2024.

“We were happy to add several race day sponsors in 2023 for nightly qualifying, which was a new addition to our racing programs, along with hard charger, heat race and B main winners,” she said. “We are hoping to continue and expand on our race day sponsors in 2024.”

Leamer also thanked Cupcake Wonders for providing the flour for the start line, Rob Eisentraut of RC Custom Design for photography, graphic design and website and social media support, the MSA Safety Team, Paul Pokorski and Scott Bader for organizing contributions to the 2023 MSA contingency packages totaling $11,000 in products and certificates, along with Lynn Pokorski and Abbie Pokorski for race winner photo assistance, her husband, Randy Leamer, and scorers Angela Dulmes and Dakoda Tennyson.

Alex Pokorski was honored with the 2023 Midwest Sprint Car Association Most Improved Driver Award, during the 2023 MSA Awards Banquet at Amore Banquet Hall in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Nov. 11. – RC Custom Design photo

Leamer also recognized additional 2023 MSA supporting companies R&H Racing Equipment, Behling Racing Equipment and Hepfner Racing Products.

Leamer acknowledged the 2023 MSA Board of Directors, including Dan Mayer (vice president), Dan Teunissen (secretary), Scott Bader, Alex Pokorski and Tony Wondra before announcing the re-election of Dan Teunissen, Dan Mayer and Tony Wondra to terms on the MSA Board starting in 2024.

“I want to thank each board member for their support and dedication in 2023,” Leamer said. “I look forward to leading the MSA again in 2024.”

The 10 drivers and teams competing in all 24 official MSA events in 20223 were recognized with 100 Percent Attendance Awards, including Brandon McMullen (first place), Ben Schmidt of Plymouth (second place), Kevin Karnitz of West Bend-Mayer Automotive Racing (third place), Alex Pokorski of West Bend-Akright Auto Racing Team (fourth place), Lance Fassbender of Burnett (fifth place), rookie Logan Julien of Oconomowoc (sixth place), rookie T.J. Smith of Greenville (seventh), Tony Wondra of Campbellsport (eighth place), Bill Taylor of Boltonville (10th place) and Chris Larson of Franksville (11th place).

An additional six MSA drivers and teams were honored for achieving 85 percent participation during the 2023 campaign, including Brandon Berth (ninth, 21 races), Katelyn Krebsbach of Cascade (12th, 22 races), rookie T.J. Haddy of Waupun (13th, 23 races), Spyder Akright of Sheboygan Falls and Paul Pokorski of West Bend-Akright Auto Racing Team (14th, 21 races), rookie Tristan Koenings of Van Dyne (15th, 21 races) and J.J. Pagel of Mount Calvary (17th, 20 races).

MSA Competition Director Scott Bader acknowledge the efforts of 2023 series staff, including officials Fred DeBlaey, John Metzger, Lee Glomski and the late Jerry Priesgen; scorers Sheila Leamer and Angela Dulmes, flag men Steve Crass and Alex Gilhart, announcer George Baumann, photographer, videographer and graphic designer Rob Eisentraut of RC Custom Design, MSA website administrators Dan and Michaela Teunissen, race report writer Jeff Pederson of Pedal Down Promotions, 50/50 ticket takers Donna Bader and Janell Ludwigson and the members of the MSA Safety Team.

Brandon Berth received the 2023 Midwest Sprint Car Association Best Appearing Car/Crew Award, during the 2023 MSA Awards Banquet at Amore Banquet Hall in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Nov. 11. – RC Custom Design photo

“I want to give special recognition to Sheila Leamer, who really does everything for the MSA,” Bader said. “In addition to the MSA staff members that I noted, I would also like to recognize and thank the push truck and wrecker drivers for all that they do to support our racing program. The MSA staff helps out in many different ways all year long and all of their efforts are greatly appreciated.”

Bader also thanked each of the five tracks on the 2023 MSA schedule, including The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. (Dave Mohs), Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie, Wis. (Gregg and Angie McKarns), the Dodge County Fairgrounds in Beaver Dam, Wis. (Steve Sinclair), Eagle River Speedway in Eagle River, Wis. (Pat Zdroik) and Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. (Chris Klemko).

The first of eight special awards went to Logan Julien, who claimed the 2023 MSA Rookie of the Year Award on the strength of a sixth-place finish in the point standings, including seven top-five and 16 top-10 A-main finishes to go along with one heat race victory.

“I would like to thank all of the MSA sponsors and all of the sponsors on our car,” Julien said. “A special ‘thank you’ goes to my dad for everything that he does. Wayne Modjeski and Kurt Davis also helped us out quite a bit and I also need to acknowledge the Haddy Family. We wouldn’t have been able to get through everything this season without them. I also want to thank the members of the MSA Board and MSA Safety Team for all of their efforts this season. I’m looking forward to racing with the IRA next year.”

Alex Pokorski claimed the 2023 MSA Most Improved Driver Award, after improving 11 spots from a 15th place finish in the 2022 MSA point standings to post a fourth place showing in the 2023 MSA point standings.

During his breakout 2023 campaign, Pokorski earned his first career MSA A-main victory at the Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway in Beaver Dam, Wis., with 12 top-five and 21 top-10 A-main finishes, to go along with four heat race victories.

“I want to thank Spyder [Akright] and Akright Auto for the opportunity to race, as well as all of our sponsors and crew members,” Pokorski said. “It was a lot of fun to race with everybody this year. I’m looking forward to next year.”

Brandon Berth picked up the 2023 MSA Best Appearing Car/Crew Award.

“This is definitely a surprise and an award that means a lot to me,” Berth said. “I designed this year’s car and Rob [Eisentraut] made it happen. I take a lot of pride in how my car looks, so I really appreciate this award.”

Brandon McMullen earned the 2023 MSA Hard Charger Award for passing a series-high 93 cars during the season.

Brandon McMullen earned the 2023 Midwest Sprint Car Association Hard Charger Award at the 2023 MSA Awards Banquet at Amore Banquet Hall in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Nov. 11. – RC Custom Design photo

The 2023 MSA Hard Luck Award went to rookie Tristan Koenings.

The 2023 Jim Wipperfurth Family MSA Person of the Year Award was presented to MSA President, Treasurer and Lead Scorer Sheila Leamer.

“I have a passion for racing and always give 110 percent to help MSA to the best of my ability,” Leamer said. “I am very honored to receive this award. I’m speechless.”

Beth Winkel of BMG Designs presented the 2023 Harry Neitzel MSA Mechanic of the Year Award to McMullen Racing Enterprise crew chief Joe McMullen of Plymouth, who has helped Brandon McMullen earn nine championships (five MSA, three Plymouth Dirt Track Racing, one Manitowoc Expo Speedway) over the span of the past 14 years.

The final award recipient to take to the podium was 2023 MSA champion Brandon McMullen, who tied Kurt Davis of South Milwaukee at the top of the all-time MSA championship heap by claiming his fifth series title, which were tallied in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2020 and 2023.

McMullen turned in an outstanding 2023 campaign, which featured seven A-main victories, 23 top-five and 23 top-10 A-main showings to go along with nine heat race wins in 24 official MSA points events en route to claiming his fifth MSA series title by a 107-point margin over 2011 MSA champion Ben Schmidt.

After earning seven MSA A-main victories during the 2023 campaign, McMullen solidified himself in third place on the all-time MSA A-main victory list with 45 main event triumphs to stand seven behind runner-up Danny Schlafer of Sussex, who has tallied 52 MSA A-main victories, and 19 in back of all-time MSA main event victories leader Kurt Davis, who stands at the top of the victories A-main victory list with 64.

“Joe [McMullen] and my dad [Tim McMullen] deserve so much credit for what this team has been able to achieve,” McMullen said. “Joe and my dad believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. They probably spent more time in the shop than anyone else. In looking back over the past 14 years, I feel it is not as much about the actual racing on the track, but the people we’ve raced with and raced against over the years. The thing I like the most about MSA is that we all help each other and we all get along. That’s not something you see with every racing series.

Joe McMullen collected the 2023 Midwest Sprint Car Association Harry Neitzel Mechanic of the Year Award, during the 2023 MSA Awards Banquet at Amore Banquet Hall in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Nov. 11. – RC Custom Design photo

“I want to thank everyone that makes up the MSA and all of the MSA crew,” he said. “It has been an honor to race against you all. Racing kept our family close all these years. To the younger drivers, I encourage you all to stick with it. During our first year with MSA in 2010, we were flat out terrible. We wrecked several times and only made one feature all season.”

MSA 2023 Banquet trophy and award sponsors included Professional Plating, In Memory of Hagar Nelson, Tn’T Motorsports, Akright Auto, Gary and Susie Francour, Roger & Dan’s Auto Service, Fred DeBlaey, Pedal Down Promotions, Con Forms, Mark’s Tree Service, Hafemann Vintage Racing-Butch and Janet Hafemann, Randy Post, Krebsbach Construction, Kris and Jen Hansen, RC Custom Design, Don and Lynn Kiel and Richard’s of Dunbar.

MSA 2023 contingency product sponsors were R& H Racing Equipment, HRP, Behling, Waldo Oil, American Racer Tires, Boubin Tire, Buege High Performance, Super Shox, Vortex Racing Products, PDTR, Torsion Bear Rating, Afco Shocks, M&W Radius Rods, KSE, Karavan Trailers, Maxim Chassis, Winter Products, FK Rod Ends, Bell, Wilwood, XXX Chassis, Schroeder/PAC, Competition Specialists, J&J Auto Racing, Saldana, Pyrotech, DMI, Schoenfeld, Hilborn, Lane Automotive, Velocity Wings, MRI, Racing Optics, Allstar Performance, Corey Oil, Ultrashield, MPD, Race Bumpers, Mayer Automotive (American Racer) and Bumper to Bumper IRA.

For more information on the Midwest Sprint Car Association, visit the MSA website at www.msasprints.com or visit the MSA Facebook page at www.facebook.com/msasprints.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through a diverse array of promotional strategies and methods, including 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.

Barbara Welnetz launches debut romantic suspense novel ‘Voices from Tahoe’

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) October 18, 2023 – A gripping fictional mystery drawing inspiration from her personal life experiences living in Lake Tahoe, Calif. forms the intriguing foundation of “Voices from Tahoe” – the first novel from Manitowoc, Wis. author Barbara Welnetz.

Welnetz’s first book release delivers a suspense-filled plotline featuring a diverse and rich collection of fictional characters and locations inspired by those she encountered during her time serving as the general manager of a grocery store nestled near the shores of Lake Tahoe.

“I was prompted to write ‘Voices from Tahoe’ due to memories and dreams of my life on the west shore of Lake Tahoe,” Welnetz said. “I believe it was my destiny to become general manager of the local grocery store. Since it was the hub of the community, my world revolved around the lives of the people who lived there. My novel includes many similar experiences from those days in the early 1970s when the small community of Tahoma first grew and prospered.”

With the memories of her experiences in Lake Tahoe still fresh in her mind, Welnetz’s time working at the Manitowoc Public Library proved to push her book writing dreams to fruition.

“After retirement, I moved to the Midwest and became employed at the local library in Manitowoc, Wisconsin,” Welnetz said. “While working at the Manitowoc Public Library preparing new books for circulation, I was inspired to write my first novel based on the years I lived in Lake Tahoe.”

Barbara Welnetz of Manitowoc, Wis. has released her debut novel, “Voices from Tahoe,” through Pedal Down Promotions.

One of Welnetz’s main goals in writing “Voices from Tahoe” was to highlight the beauty and splendor of the Lake Tahoe area, while creating a story of how three men impact a recently divorced woman’s life in very different ways, after she relocates from Wisconsin to Lake Tahoe to take a job as the general manager of a local grocery store.

“The fictional characters in the book became alive as I recalled the people and places I loved in my early adulthood,” Welnetz said. “While the grocery store was indeed my passion, the best part of life was the beauty and nature which surrounded me every day. I hope readers come away with a desire to visit this incredible place. I also hope newly divorced women who read my novel might find the courage to move across the country, or the world, and start a new life of their own.”

Published through Pedal Down Promotions of Manitowoc, Wis., Welnetz’s romantic suspense novel “Voices from Tahoe” marks the first of what she hopes will be additional book releases in the future.

“My next book endeavor is in the works with an anticipated release in late 2024,” Welnetz said. “The novel is based in the remote Upper Peninsula of Michigan where a young woman finds herself facing a desperate life struggle of unimaginable enemies.”

The public launch of Welnetz’s “Voices from Tahoe” romantic mystery novel is set to take place during the second annual Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing Presented by Pedal Down Promotions at Sabbatical Brewing Co. in Manitowoc, Wis. on Saturday, Nov. 4. The event, which will feature 27 additional local and regional authors, is set to run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For those unable to attend the Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing on Saturday, Nov. 4 at Sabbatical Brewing in Manitowoc, Wis. to purchase a copy of “Voices from Tahoe” in-person, copies of the book are also available on www.amazon.com and www.barnesandnoblepress.com or by emailing Barbara Welnetz directly at bjwelnetz@gmail.com.

For more information, contact Pedal Down Promotions via email at pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, by phone at 920-323-7970 or by visiting www.pedaldownpromo.com.

 

Barbara Welnetz
Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing Book Launch
Sabbatical Brewing Co.
835 South 29th Street
Manitowoc, Wis.
Saturday, November 4, 2023
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Author lineup locked in for second Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing at Sabbatical Brewing Co.

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

The second annual Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing is set to take place at Sabbatical Brewing Co. in Manitowoc, Wis. on Saturday, Nov. 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Pedal Down Promotions photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) October 16, 2023 – A diverse array of 28 authors representing a wide variety of genres will participate in the second annual Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing Presented by Pedal Down Promotions at Sabbatical Brewing Co. in Manitowoc, Wis. on Saturday, Nov. 4.

Set to run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the show will again feature free admission and serve as a showcase for several noted area authors, including Joe Verdegan of Dunbar, Wis., who penned the Amazon No. 1 true crime best seller “The Reformatory – Tales from Green Bay’s Maximum Security Prison” in 2020 and has released six additional books covering the Wisconsin and Upper Michigan auto racing scene.

In addition, Joan Treppa of Blaine, Minn. will make her first appearance at the Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing with her book on the infamous 1992 Tom Monfil’s Green Bay paper mill murder case titled “Reclaiming Lives: Pursuing Justice for Six Innocent Men.”

The following authors are also scheduled to be on hand with copies of their books for sale during the event.

Former Fox Valley Lutheran High School Football Coach and Athletic Director Gene Strusz of Appleton, Wis. (athletic leadership and Christian prayer author of “Essays on Coaching Athletes: Advice for Athletic Administrators and Coaches of All Sports” and “Morning Prayers for the Christian School”)

Angel Mueller of Mishicot, Wis. (inspirational Christian poetry author of “Wheels Up – Grief to Peace”)

Robert L. Rogler of Kiel, Wis. (medieval fantasy author of “Heart of Light Book One – Madea’s Fate,” “Rendered Soul,” and “Witch’s Valley Book Two – Madea’s Fate”)

Karen Lueders of Little Chute, Wis. (Christian poetry and essay author of “To God Be The Glory,” “God’s Promise of Salvation” and “Nourishment of the Soul”)

Barbara Welnetz of Manitowoc, Wis. (fictional biography, mystery, suspense and romance author of “Voices from Tahoe”)

Karen Meyer of Plymouth, Wis. (author of 14 children’s books, including “Looking Forward to Christmas,” “Charlie and Chubby,” Ferdinand the Frog Prince,” “A Rooster Saw It All,” “A Valentine Heart” and “Teddy the Matchmaker”)

Ann Graf of Plymouth, Wis. (modern romance author of “Love the Illusion,” “Delusions” and “Final Flame”)

Andrea Heckner of Janesville, Wis. (crime and suspense novelist and author of “The Farm – Secrets in the Heartland Book 1” and “Dismantling the Farm – Secrets in the Heartland Book 2”)

Jane Yunker of St. Croix Falls, Wis. (historical romance and suspense novelist and author of “Mary Bishop,” “Alice: The Betrayal,” “Betty: The Rebel” and “Lizzie: The Homecoming”)

Michele Bohnert of Appleton, Wis. (children’s book author of “Fishing with Grandpa”)

Randy L. Forsterling of Sheboygan Falls, Wis. (inspirational, self-help author of “Destiny – My Choice to Choose” and “Speak to Me – A Mountain-Moving Inspirational Guide to Conquering Self-Pity”)

Kendrick Watkins of Milwaukee, Wis. (romance, suspense, inspirational and self-help author of “3Some,” “The Script: The Beginning” and “The Script 2: Beyond”)

Sara Biren of Manitowoc, Wis. (young adult fiction author of “Bend in the Road,” “Cold Day in the Sun” and “The Last Thing You Said”)

Michael F. Dilley of Manitowoc, Wis. (military and war history author of “GALAHAD – A History of the 5307th Composite Unit,” “Elite Warriors: 300 Years of America’s Best Fighting Troops,” “Behind the Lines: A Critical Survey of Special Operations in World War II” and “Rangers, Scouts and Raiders: Origin, Organization and Operations of Selected Special Operations Forces”)

Lianna Hawkins of Casco, Wis. (historical western romance author of “The Bounty’s Reward,” “The Bounty’s Catch” and “The Bounty’s Betrayal”)

Tina Susedik of Eau Claire, Wis. (historical western romance and mystery author of “The Balcony Girl,” “The School Marm,” “The Proprietress,” “The Banker’s Wife,” “The Unconventional Blacksmith,” “Missing My Heart,” “Missing Innocence,” “The Photograph of Love” and “Love with a Side of Crazy”)

Rodney Schroeter of Random Lake, Wis. (comic book writer, biographical essayist, designer and editor of “Misson of Benevolent Greed,” “Human Interest Stuff,” “A Wisconsin Harvest, Vol. II” and The Plymouth Review Current monthly newspaper)

Mary T. Wagner of Sheboygan, Wis. (humor, inspirational essayist and children’s book author of “When the Shoe Fits: Essays of Love, Life and Second Chances,” “Finnigan the Circus Cat,” “Finnigan the Lost Circus Wagon” and “Finnegan the Lionhearted”)

Lisa Vihos of Sheboygan, Wis. (historical fiction and poetry author of “The Lone Snake: The Story Sofonisba Anguissola,” “Fan Mail From Some Flounder,” “100 Thousand Poets for Change: 10+ Years of Poetic Activism,” “From Everywhere a Little: A Migration Anthology” and “Van Gogh Dreams”)

Valerie J. Clarizio of Sturgeon Bay, Wis. (author of 15 steamy romantic suspense, time travel and contemporary romance books, including the Chandler County Series, Nick Spinelli Romance Mystery Series, The Preserver and Protector Series, Standalone Romantic Suspense Books, The Crime and Passion Stalk City Hall Series and “Family Forever”)

S.C. Mitchell of Sheboygan, Wis. (science fiction fantasy and romance author of several book series, including “Xi Force,” “Destiny,” “Destiny’s Legacy,” “Heavenly Wars,” “Demon Gate Chronicles” and “Amulet of the Fallen God”)

Beth Stensvold of Sheboygan, Wis. (whimsical and educational children’s book author of “Hunting the Maybee,” “Big Mistake,” “Hippos are Fun,” and “What Would You Do?”)

R.L. Edinger of Two Rivers, Wis. (mystery and steampunk mystery author of “Journey Into The Knight,” “Lost City of Steam,” “The Cracksman Door,” “Shadows of Nikola Tesla” and “City of Lunara Rise from the Ashes”)

Melanie James of Two Rivers, Wis. (romance, paranormal romance comedy, paranormal romance and contemporary romance author of over 50 books, including the New York Times best seller “Conjuring Darkness”)

S.L. Wilton of Birnamwood, Wis. (Arthurian fantasy novelist and author of epic fantasy novel “Queen of Crows’)

Shelly Small of Manitowoc, Wis. (mystery, suspense and romance author of “Georgia’s Roots Revealed,” “Luna,” “Love Heat and Deceit,” “Broken Souls” and “A New Year’s Wish”)

The books available for purchase during the show will cover a wide range of fiction and non-fiction genres, including military and war history, children’s stories, true crime, young adult fiction, auto racing, youth sports/coaching, romance, Christian/inspirational poetry, military and war history, medieval fantasy, mystery, suspense, historical fiction, self-help and more.

“Last year’s inaugural Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing was very well received among the participating authors and the book enthusiasts who attended,” Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing Organizer Jeff Pederson of Pedal Down Promotions said. “We have 16 new authors joining us this year, along with 12 returning authors from last year. The show provides a great opportunity to meet and interact with many area authors, several of whom have written New York Times, USA Today and Amazon best sellers in a wide range of genres. It also provides an excellent opportunity to purchase books for the reader on your holiday gift list no matter what their favorite genre might be.”

The Sabbatical Brewing Co. taproom will be open with drinks available for purchase throughout the event.

In addition, all show attendees will be eligible to win door prizes donated by participating authors and book show organizer Pedal Down Promotions.

Updates on the second annual Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing can be found on the Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing Facebook event page, as well as the Pedal Down Promotions Facebook, Twitter and Instagram social media pages.

For more information on the second annual Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing Presented by Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, call 920-323-7970 or visit www.pedaldownpromo.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.

Arenz caps breakout rookie IRA 410 Sprint Car campaign

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Travis Arenz completed his rookie season of Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series competition third in the final point standings, following the sixth annual Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 30.  – RC Custom Design photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) October 4, 2023 – After depleting their allotment of 410 Sprint Car motors at Gondik Law Speedway in Superior, Wis. on Friday, Sept. 8, Travis Arenz and the members of the Travis Arenz Motorsports team dug out the team’s 360 motor to close out the 2023 Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association season as part of the sixth annual Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 30.

With his underpowered motor bolted in for the 2023 lid-sealing event, Arenz qualified 35th in the 38-car IRA field with a lap of 12.269 seconds. The 2021 and 2022 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing and Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car champion then lined up 10th and finished ninth in the eight-lap IRA heat race three.

The Sheboygan Falls, Wis. competitor started 18th in the 12-lap IRA B main needing to finish in the top four to advance to the 30-lap IRA Rick Schmidt Memorial A main.

Despite racing against his fellow 410 Sprint Car competitors with a 360 motor, Arenz put on a show, advancing from 18th to seventh on lap 7. However, Arenz was unable to advance further to the front before ending his rookie IRA 410 Sprint Car Series season with a seventh place B main finish.

Arenz’s first full season in the 410 Sprint Car ranks turned heads as he earned his first career IRA A-main victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, July 1 to go along with 12 top-five and 15 top-10 A-main showings, as well as three heat race victories, seven dash appearances and two dash victories.

On the strength of his third place showing in the final 2023 Bumper to Bumper IRA 410 Sprint Car Series point standings, Arenz claimed the Sage Fruit Apple Cup Award for finishing as the second highest point earning rookie in the final 2023 IRA point standings.

“I learned a lot in my rookie season with the IRA,” Arenz said. “The biggest thing was that qualifying pretty much makes the night. This is something I am still working on becoming more consistent with, but we are making improvements.

“Winning our first IRA feature as a rookie has to be my proudest moment of the season,” he said. “The entire night just had this feeling. Everything went the way it needed to go to get that first feature win. I’m also proud of what we accomplished with the small budget we had this year compared to others that we race with.”

The 2023 Travis Arenz Motorsports sponsorship partners include Professional Plating Inc., Service One Transportation, Inc, Don and Lynn Kiel, Oostburg Concrete, Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Schoen’s Wildlife Removal, Premier Insurance Solutions-Craig Ladwig, Pallet Works, DW Fence, Little Bears Tree Service LLC, Lake Auto Glass and Service, Myhre Construction LLC, Roth’s Auto Restoration, Hair Fellers Barbershop, Fastenal of Plymouth, Jensen Sales and Service, Humphrey’s Turner Hall Bar & Grill, Carbliss Hand Crafted Cocktails, Amy Bruechert Reality, Cornwell Tools-Paul Epping, Advanced Engine Concepts, Inc., Duehring’s Tax Service, Everhope Show Cattle, HRP Wings and Behling Racing Equipment.

The 2023 Travis Arenz Motorsports team consists of pit crew members Greg Piedot, Jerrod Gamb, Emily Stadler, Cameron Fritz, Bobby Bonelli and Trevor Hittman (public relations).

“I have so many people to thank,” Arenz said. “All of our great sponsors, especially those who have stuck with us over all these years, are very much appreciated. I also want to thank our many, many fans and, of course, all my crew members.

“Plans for 2024 are uncertain at the moment,” he said. “Regardless, we will still have a 410 car in the shop.”

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

Travis Arenz Motorsports Sponsor Showcase – Amy Bruechert Realty

Travis Arenz Motorsports is pleased to have Amy Bruechert Reality on board for the team’s rookie season of competition with the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series in 2023.

Located at 178 Center Ave. in Luxemburg, Wis. Amy Bruechert Realty has a passion for real estate. In her experience working as a realtor for over a decade, Bruechert has created lasting relationships, while guiding both buying and selling clients to reach their real estate goals with honesty, prompt communication, expertise and professionalism from start to finish, while working to make the process as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.

For more information on Amy Bruechert Reality, email amy.bruechertrealestate@gmail.com, call 706-482-8557 or visit amy.townncountryre.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
410 Sprint Car
Final 2023 Statistics

Total Events – 28
IRA Events – 27
All Star Events – 3
A Main Victories – 1
Top Five A Main Finishes – 12
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 15
Top 15 A Main Finishes – 20
Top 20 A Main Finishes – 21
Heat Race Victories – 3
B Main Victories – 0
Dash Appearances – 7
Dash Victories – 2
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0
Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association Final Points Finish – 3rd

Travis Arenz Motorsports
360 Sprint Car
Final 2023 Statistics

Total MSA-PDTR Events – 2
A Main Victories – 0
Top Five A Main Finishes – 0
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 0
Heat Race Victories – 0
B Main Victories – 1
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0

Hartmann wraps up 2023 IRA 410 Sprint Car campaign with top-10 points distinction

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Austin Hartmann closed out his second full season of Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car competition ninth in the final point standings.  – RC Custom Design photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) October 4, 2023 – The grueling six-month Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series schedule, which featured trips to 14 different tracks in six states, drew to a close for Austin Hartmann and the 87A Hartmann Racing team with a rock solid ninth place showing in the final point standings, following the sixth annual Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 30.

The Plymouth, Wis. driver opened the night by qualifying 25th overall in the 38-car field with a lap of 11.696 seconds. The 2020 Midwest Sprint Car Association and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Rookie of the Year Award winner used a strong start to work past Will Armitage on the drop of the green flag of the fourth eight-lap IRA heat race. Hartmann held down the fifth spot the rest of the way to advance to the 30-lap Rick Schmidt Memorial IRA A main.

After rolling off 20th in the 30-lap IRA 410 Sprint Car Series A main, Hartmann drove a smooth race to come home with a 20th place showing.

In 33 410 Sprint Car events during the 2023 season, Hartmann tallied one top-five, six top-10 and 12 top-15 A-main showings, while recording two heat race victories and six IRA dash appearances.

After turning in a 10th place showing in the 2022 IRA 410 Sprint Car Series point standings during his rookie season, Hartmann closed out the 2023 IRA 410 Sprint Car Series season one spot better in ninth place in the final point standings.

“I would like to thank all of the sponsors, crew members, friends and family, who have supported myself and the team during the course of the season,” Hartmann said. “I wouldn’t have an opportunity to do this without the help of each of them.”

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.

The sponsorship partners for the 2023 87A Hartmann Racing team include Kristine Hartmann of Pleasant View Realty, Shufflebotham Tree Service, Competition Specialists, Schmidt’s Landscaping, Feldmann Sales & Service, Holler n Hills, Steinpreis Trucking, KSI Supply Inc., Quasius Construction, SwitchGear Brewing LLC, TheD8Dispensary, AF Inc., Hopf Farms, RC Custom Design, Hepfner Racing Products, Berryman Racing Shocks and Maxim Chassis.

The 2023 87A Hartmann Racing team consists of Hunter Annis, Eric Bergschultz, Parker Annis, Karlee Hartmann, Andrew Shufflebotham and Kristine Hartmann.

87A Hartmann Racing Sponsor Showcase – TheD8Dispensary

The Austin Hartmann – 87A Hartmann Racing team is thrilled to welcome TheD8Dispensary a sponsorship partner for the 2023 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.

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
Final 2023 Statistics

Total Events – 33
IRA Events – 27
World of Outlaws Events – 3
All Star Events – 4
A Main Victories – 0
B Main Victories – 0
Top Five A Main Finishes – 1
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 6
Top 15 A Main Finishes – 12
Top 20 A Main Finishes – 23
Heat Race Victories – 2
Dash Appearances – 6
Dash Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0
Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association Points Finish – 9th

Alex Pokorski closes out ‘most improved’ 2023 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car campaign

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Alex Pokorski (4) of West Bend, Wis. earned a career-best fourth place showing in the 2023 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing and Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car point standings. 2014 Midwest Sprint Car Association Masters Series champion Paul Pokorski (53A) of West Bend. Wis. wrapped up the 2023 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car season with a 14th place finish in the final point standings in a co-driving effort with Spyder Akright. – RC Custom Design photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) October 3, 2023 – While it may not have featured a perfect ending, Alex Pokorski and the Akright Auto Racing Team put a bow on an impressive season worthy of the 2023 Akright Auto Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car Most Improved Driver Award, during the sixth annual Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 30.

The 2023 campaign came to a close with Pokorski placing fourth in the final PDTR 360 Sprint Car point standings, which marked an improvement of 10 spots over 2022, during which he finished 14th. The fourth-year 360 Sprint Car driver’s head-turning, season-long performance was even more prominent in Akright Auto Midwest Sprint Car Association competition as he vaulted from 15th in the 2022 final point standings to fourth in 2023, while competing in all 24 MSA events during the 2023 season.

The 17th and final PDTR 360 Sprint Car event of the 2023 season saw the West Bend, Wis. driver qualify third overall in a stellar 33-car PDTR-MSA field with a lap of 12.238 seconds.

After starting fourth in the first eight-lap PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Car heat race, Pokorski swept past T.J. Haddy to move into third on the opening lap. Pokorski held the position during the remainder of the race to advance to the 25-lap Fuzzy Fassbender Tribute A main.

Pokorski rolled off second in the PDTR-MSA headliner and held down the runner-up spot in the early going until his car got out of shape along the cushion before contacting the back stretch wall on lap 5. The impact resulted in significant damage to Pokorski’s No. 4 Spyder Akright-owned machine and brought his 2023 season to an early ending with a 21st place A-main finish in a race won by Scotty Thiel.

The race marked the only time Pokorski failed to finish an A-main and his lone time placing outside of the top 15 in MSA 360 Sprint Car main event action during the 2023 campaign.

“The car was solid all night,” Pokorski said. “In the feature, I caught a rut a little wrong and ended up breaking something on the right front corner of the car that sent me into the wall. That incident created plenty of work for us to do. Luckily, we have the off-season to fix it and regroup.”

In 24 events during the 2023 season, Pokorski earned his first career MSA 360 Sprint Car A-main victory at the Dodge County Fairgrounds Speedway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Friday, June 2, while notching 12 top-five and 21 top-10 and 23 top-15 A-main showings. In addition, Pokorski tallied four heat race victories and two fast qualifier awards during the 2023 campaign.

“The 2023 season was a lot of fun,” Pokorski said. “I feel blessed to have had all the people around me who made it possible. I hope they all enjoyed it as well. We had a big improvement from last year, which got us up to a fourth place finish in MSA points. I will be back racing with Spyder and the Akright Auto Racing Team again next year. I’m really excited to have that opportunity again, and I am looking forward to improving further.”

Paul Pokorski also closed out his 31st season of racing by competing in a portion of the final PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Car event of the season, as he shared the seat of the 53A machine with car owner Spyder Akright throughout the 2023 campaign.

Paul qualified 12th overall among the 33-car field with a lap of 12.484 seconds. After starting on the pole of the third eight-lap PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Car heat race, Paul led the first six laps of the race before Scotty Thiel steered Randy Sippel’s 39s past the 2014 MSA 360 Sprint Car Masters Series champion to bump the West Bend, Wis. driver to a second place showing.

After that, Paul turned the car over to Spyder Akright, who started last in the 15-lap PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Car B main due to the driver change. Akright used a strong start to vault from his 14th starting spot up to seventh, just one position away from an A-main transfer spot in the early stages of the race.

However, after some slight contact produced handling issues, Akright fell back in the closing laps to cap the 2023 season with a ninth place B main showing.

In 11 PDTR-MSA events during the 2023 campaign, Paul posted one top-five, four top-10 and six top-15 A-main finishes to go along with one B main victory. Co-driving with Spyder Akright, the Akright-Pokorski piloted 53A car finished 14th in the 2023 PDTR and MSA 360 Sprint Car point standings while competing in all 17 PDTR and 21 of 24 MSA events in 2023.

“I was a bit tight in qualifying and pretty good in the heat race,” Paul said. “Knowing I was going to be turning over the reins to Spyder [Akright] in the next race, and I needed to keep the car in one piece. As a result, I got a little conservative in turns one and two, which cost us a heat race win. Overall, it was a good night from my perspective. The season was also a lot of fun. We all had a good time. Spyder keeps reminding us that’s the point…to have fun and not take it too seriously. The entire Akright Auto Racing and Pokorski Motorsports team is looking forward to 2024 already.”

Alex Pokorski and the members of the Akright Auto Racing Team will be recognized with the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car Most Improved Driver Award at the 2023 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Awards Ceremony set to take place Saturday, Oct. 14 at 7 p.m. at Racer’s Hall in Plymouth, Wis.

Sponsors and supporters for Alex Pokorski and the 2023 Akright Auto Racing Team include Akright Auto, Petersen Septic Systems, Goeden Auto Body, Novak’s Service Center, Mulch Express of Wisconsin, Countryside Designs, Wisconsin Bank and Trust, Homestead Auto, Cedar Valley Hunt Club, Bumper to Bumper Auto Parts, RC Custom Design and Pedal Down Promotions.

For more information on Alex Pokorski and the No. 4 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 51st year in business in 2023.

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 undercar 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 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 4
Final 2023 Statistics

Total Events – 24
A Main Victories – 1
B Main Victories – 0
Top Five A Main Finishes – 12
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 21
Top 15 A Main Finishes – 23
Heat Race Victories – 4
Fast Qualifier Awards – 2
Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car Points Finish – 4th
Midwest Sprint Car Association Points Finish – 4th

 

Paul Pokorski
Akright Auto 53A
2023 Season
By The Numbers

Total Events – 11
A Main Victories – 0
B Main Victories – 1
Top Five A Main Finishes – 1
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 4
Top 15 A Main Finishes – 6
Heat Race Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0
PDTR 360 Sprint Car Points Finish co-driving with Spyder Akright – 14th
MSA 360 Sprint Car Points Finish co-driving with Spyder Akright – 14th

Sixth annual AAUW Girls STEM Day Conference set at Sheboygan South High School

Dr. Marissa Jablonski from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin will serve as the keynote speaker at the sixth annual Sheboygan Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Girls STEM Day Conference Saturday, Nov. 4, at Sheboygan South High School in Sheboygan, Wis.

SHEBOYGAN, WIS. (October 2, 2023) – The Sheboygan Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is gearing up to hold the sixth annual Girls STEM Day Conference Saturday, Nov. 4, at Sheboygan South High School, located at 1240 Washington Ave. in Sheboygan, Wis.

The popular event was established in 2017 with the goal of connecting sixth through ninth-grade girls with the various applications of STEM by focusing on the core fields of science, technology, engineering and math.

The conference, which runs from 7:45 a.m. to 12 p.m. beginning with check-in from 7:45 a.m. to 8:15 a.m., features 10 unique STEM-inspiring sessions, along with a presentation from keynote speaker Dr. Marissa Jablonski from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin from 8:15-9 a.m.

“Our goal with the Girls STEM Day Conference is to encourage young girls to discover, explore and learn from STEM field experts in a wide range of specialty areas related to careers in science, technology, engineering and math,” Sheboygan Branch AAUW member and Girls STEM Day Co-Chair Allyson Olivier said. “Since 2006, AAUW has taken on an initiative to empower girls to pursue careers in STEM fields. This initiative has taken several forms on a national level. Here in Sheboygan County, we are doing it through this conference.”

The conference includes a highly diverse collection of STEM field experts, including Jablonski, who is an accomplished water engineer, environmental advisor and plastics-reduction expert, who has worked in more than 45 countries around the world. In her role as the executive director of the Freshwater Collaborative of the Wisconsin at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Jablonski is highly active in the STEM-focused areas of engineering education, water distribution and sanitation design and construction.

Conference participants will have the opportunity to choose three of 10 available 45-minute STEM sessions running between 9:15 a.m. and noon.

University of Wisconsin-Green Bay/Sheboygan Professor James Kabrhel is again set to lead the Chem Demons STEM session, during the sixth annual Sheboygan Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Girls STEM Day Conference Saturday, Nov. 4, at Sheboygan South High School in Sheboygan, Wis.

According to Sheboygan Branch AAUW Member and Girls STEM Day Co-Chair Lori Bryne, this year’s STEM sessions cover a broad array of topics including architectural design (Architecture – Designed Awareness presented by Kurt Davis, Anne Blanke, Taylor Kranzusch, Sydney Goetsch and Sam Krakow of Abacus Architects), graphic design (Beginner’s Graphic Design presented by Deb Sevens of Designs by Deb Sevens), robotics (Robotic Surgery presented by Dr. Jessica Leszcynski of Prevea Health), veterinary science (A Look Inside the Bovine Hide presented by Dr. Ellen Hooker, Wisconsin Department of Agriculture veterinarian), forensic science (Crime Scene Investigation presented by Sheboygan County Sheriff’s Department Detective Tyler Wuestenhagen), applied chemistry (Chem Demons presented by UW-Green Bay, Sheboygan County Professor James Kabrhel and Sheboygan Falls Middle School teacher Pam Salm), food science (Sensory of Sausage presented by Johnsonville Sausage Corporation R&D Associate Scientist Becca Stayner ), the science of color and appearance (The Science of Color presented by Kohler Co. staff members Jennifer Tarplee, Kate Revelis, Megan Doege and Megan Sprenger), computer science (Engage in Computers by Laura Lienau of Horizon Systems) and emergency medicine and nursing health care (Blood and Body Works by Aurora Regional EMS Community Educator Jean Zemke).

“We have a wonderful group of expert presenters, who are working in these STEM fields with many years of experience,” Olivier said. “We have middle school and high school teachers, professors, police officers, veterinarians, engineers, product managers, health care professionals, computer scientists and developers and business owners, who will be leading this year’s STEM sessions.

The sixth annual Sheboygan Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Girls STEM Day Conference for sixth through ninth grade girls is set to take place Saturday, Nov. 4, at Sheboygan South High School in Sheboygan, Wis.

“The presenters are genuinely happy to teach these sessions and the girls are so eager to learn,” she said. “It is fun to witness all the excitement that these sessions generate. The best thing is that they are all hands-on too. The girls actually get to experience what it is like to do these types of careers. Three of the 10 sessions – Engage in Computers, Blood and Body Works and Sensory of Sausage – are new this year.”

Over the past six years, the AAUW of Sheboygan County Girls STEM Day event has granted area girls a rare opportunity to experience the wonderful world of STEM through various hands-on activities and learn directly from STEM field experts.

A young participant in the 2022 A Look Inside the Bovine Hide workshop session shared the following thoughts on her AAUW Sheboygan Branch Girls STEM Day experience.

“I never knew I could have so much fun cutting and opening a cow embryo,” she said. “This is an amazing event in a safe environment and you can really learn a ton. It was such a great experience.”

The registration fee is $10 per student, which includes instruction and supplies. Checks should be made out to AAUW Wisconsin Foundation.

The registration deadline is Friday, Oct. 27.

Sponsors for this year’s event include Bemis Manufacturing, Frank G. & Frieda K. Brotz Family Foundation, Fehr Graham, Feingold Family Foundation, Grover Family Foundation, Masters Gallery Foods, Richco Structures, Rockline Inc., Saco AEI Polymers and Sartori.

In-kind donors are JoAnn Gadicke, Johnston’s Bakery, Judy Hangartner, Laura Lienau, Marianne Comstock and Richard Linde, Masters Gallery Foods, Old Wisconsin Sausage Inc. and Z Spot Expresso & Coffee.

“We would like to thank the Sheboygan Recreation Department and Sheboygan South High School for being so great to work with the past two years and again this year,” Olivier said. “We are looking forward to having the Girls STEM Day event return to Sheboygan South High School on Saturday, November 4th.”

Founded in 1881, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) advances equity by empowering women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research.

The Sheboygan Branch of AAUW grants scholarships each year to non-traditional women students.

To register or for more information on the Girls STEM Day Conference, visit http://urezsignup.com/event/register.php?event_id=491123 or call Sheboygan Branch AAUW member and Girls STEM Day Conference Co-Chair Lori Bryne by phone at 920-458-9224 or contact AAUW member and Girls STEM Day Conference Co-Chair Allyson Olivier by email at allycat.olivier@sbcglobal.net.

Thiel returns to Plymouth 360 Sprint Car roots with A-main victory, McMullen nails down third PDTR 360 Sprint Car crown

Balog, Sivia, Heinert post A-main triumphs in Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Scotty Thiel of Sheboygan racked up his third career Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car A-main victory in the 25-lap Fuzzy Fassbender Tribute main event, during the sixth annual Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 30.  – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) September 30, 2023 – In one of his infrequent starts behind the wheel of an Akright Auto Plymouth Dirt Track Racing – Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car, Scotty Thiel of Sheboygan outdueled newly crowned three-time PDTR 360 Sprint Car champion Brandon McMullen of Oshkosh to capture the 25-lap Fuzzy Fassbender Tribute A-main, during the sixth annual Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships Presented by A-Main Apparel at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 30.

Despite falling just short in his A-main victory bid, Brandon McMullen celebrated his third career Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car title by wrapping up the 2023 PDTR 360 Sprint Car championship to go along with the titles he captured in 2020 and 2017.

Ten-time Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series champion Bill Balog of Hartland notched a flag-to-flag victory in the 30-lap Rick Schmidt Memorial IRA 410 Sprint Car main event, while rookie Brenham Crouch of Lubbock, Texas closed out his first career IRA 410 Sprint Car Series championship.

Jimmy Sivia of Winthrop Harbor, Ill. recorded his first career victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track in the 20-lap Autometer Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car A main as Clayton Rossmann of Wadsworth, Ill. racked up his second career Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car Series title.

Mark Heinert of Waukesha earned the 20-lap IRA Lightning Sprints A-main triumph to wrap up his first career IRA Lightning Sprints championship.

On the initial start of the 25-lap Akright Auto PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Car main event, contact in turn two resulted in the machine of Brandon Berth of Cascade flipping in turn two.

Brandon McMullen of Oshkosh secured his third career Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car championship by wrapping up the 2023 season title, during the sixth annual Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 30.  – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

Following a complete restart, Bill Taylor of Boltonville grabbed the lead from the pole with outside front row starter Alex Pokorski of West Bend following in second. On lap 5, Pokorski made contact with the back stretch wall, which brought out the second caution flag of the event and ended the fourth-year 360 Sprint Car driver’s night.

When the race resumed, Taylor again bolted in the lead, while 2011 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing and Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car champ Ben Schmidt of Plymouth moved into second after starting fifth and ninth starter Scotty Thiel vaulted in third on lap 6.

Two laps later, the high riding Thiel bolted around Schmidt to advance into the runner-up spot before the now five-time Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car champion Brandon McMullen worked his way past Schmidt to seize third on lap 9.

One lap later, Thiel closed to within striking distance of Taylor for the top spot before surging into the top spot along the high groove in turn one on lap 12.

Thiel, who launched his Sprint Car career by earning the PDTR 360 Sprint Car Rookie of the Year Award in 2008, caught lapped traffic on lap 13, which allowed McMullen to gradually reel in the leader. After following in Thiel’s tire tracks for several laps, McMullen utilizing the inside groove to briefly surge into the top spot exiting turn four on lap 24.

In his first PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Car start of the 2023 season, Thiel was not to be denied as he powered Randy Sippel’s 39s car back around McMullen in turn two on the final lap en route to his third career PDTR 360 Sprint Car A-main victory and 13th career MSA 360 Sprint Car main event triumph.

With the victory in the 24th and final event of the 2023 MSA season, Thiel became the eighth driver to post an MSA A-main triumph this season.

“I felt comfortable in the car and I thought we were getting through lapped traffic pretty good,” Thiel said in victory lane. “I was kind of falling out of the seat there near the end of the race, but then I saw [Brandon McMullen] pass me on the second-from-last lap and I had to get up on the wheel. It was a pretty fun night with the 360 Sprint Car. I have to thank Randy Sippel for everything he does to get this 39s 360 car on the track and providing me with a fast car all night.”

McMullen had to settle for second, Schmidt placed third, Taylor wound up fourth and eighth starter Kevin Karnitz of West Bend rounded out the top five.

Ten-time Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series champion Bill Balog of Hartland collected his sixth IRA main event triumph of the 2023 season, during the sixth annual Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 30.  – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

Bill Balog grabbed the lead on the drop of the green flag in the 30-lap IRA 410 Sprint Car Series A-main from the pole, while outside front row starter Austin McCarl of Altoona, Iowa followed in second.

On lap 3, the first of two caution flags appeared when debris was spotted on the track. When the race resumed, sixth starter Scotty Thiel worked past J.J. Hickle of Quilcene, Wash., who started third, to take over third in turn three on lap 4.

Balog caught the rear of the field on lap 7. However, he did not let the traffic slow his momentum as he maintained a strong half-lap lead over McCarl, who had Hickle and Thiel hot on his heels.

On lap 14, the second caution flag appeared when Tyler Tischendorf of Waupaca flipped in turn four following a multi-car incident in turn four, which prompted the second place car of Austin McCarl to retire from the event.

Following the restart, Thiel charged into second and quickly set his sights on the lead. With Balog mired in thick lapped traffic, Thiel reduced the gap on lap 18. However, Balog again worked expertly through a maze of lapped machines to maintain the lead, while Brenham Crouch, who started fifth, slipped past Thiel to grab second on lap 29.

Brenham Crouch of Lubbock, Texas notched his first career Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series championship, during the sixth annual Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 30.  – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

Balog went on to notch his seventh A-main win in his last 11 IRA 410 Sprint Car Series starts at The Plymouth Dirt Track, along with his sixth IRA A-main victory of the 2023 season and series-best 140th overall career IRA main event triumph.

Crouch placed second, Thiel was third, Hickle took fourth and fourth starter Mike Reinke of Howards Grove finished fifth.

Polesitter Rusty Egan of Round Lakes Heights, Ill. took the lead on the opening lap of the 20-lap Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car A main with third starter Chris Klemko of Bristol falling into second. On lap 2, fifth starter Allen Hafford of Beach Park, Ill. moved into third before surrendering the spot to Jimmy Sivia, who started sixth, on lap 5.

One lap later Klemko pulled in to pressure Egan for the top position before the top five cars of Egan, Klemko, Sivia, Hafford and Ryan Zielski of Oconomowoc ran in tight nose-to-tail formation along the low groove starting on lap 12.

Jimmy Sivia of Winthrop Harbor, Ill. earned his fourth Autometer Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car Series A-main victory of the 2023 season, during the sixth annual Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 30.  – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

Three laps later, Sivia rode the high line into second, before taking advantage of lapped traffic to cut the lead gap on Egan significantly. On lap 18, Egan drifted high in turn one, which allowed Sivia to pounce and grab the lead in turn two.  Meanwhile, fourth starter Ryan Marshall of Kansasville powered into second on the second-to-last circuit of the race.

Sivia went on to claim his first career victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track and fourth A-main triumph of the 2023 Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car season in the caution-free race.

Marshall placed second, Klemko was third, Egan wound up fourth and Hafford rounded out the top five.

In the 20-lap IRA Lightning Sprints A main, polesitter Mike Neau of Pleasant Prairie took the early lead before newly crowned 2023 IRA Lightning Sprints champion Mark Heinert, who started fourth, slipped past Neu to take the lead on lap 10.

Clayton Rossmann of Wadsworth, Ill. was honored with his second Autometer Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car Series championship, during the sixth annual Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 30.  – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

Heinert then pulled away to notch his eighth IRA Lightning Sprints A-main triumph of the 2023 season, while putting a ribbon on the 2023 IRA Lightning Sprints championship.

Neu finished second, Brian Strane Jr., who started sixth, placed third, Nick Petska of Spring Grove, Ill. finished fourth after starting third and Tim Brannam of Holiday Hills, Ill. finished fifth after starting fifth.

Mark Heinert of Waukesha collected his eighth IRA Lightning Sprints A-main victory of the 2023 season, while racking up his first career IRA Lightning Sprints championship, during the sixth annual Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 30.  – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

Justin Erickson of Plymouth won the 15-lap PDTR-MSA 360 Sprint Car B main.

Jake Neumann of New Berlin, Ill. captured the 10-lap IRA 410 Sprint Car B Main.

Trinity Uttech of New Berlin won the 10-lap Wisconsin wingLESS B main.

J.J. Hickle earned fast qualifier honors in the Bumper to Bumper IRA 410 Sprint Car division with a lap of 11.249 seconds.

Kevin Karnitz of West Bend recorded the fastest lap in the Akright Auto Plymouth Dirt Track Racing – Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car division by touring the third-mile clay oval in 12.194 seconds.

Mark Heinert turned in a lap of 14.517 seconds to claim the IRA Lightning Sprints fast qualifier award.

The 18th and final event of the 2023 campaign at The Plymouth Dirt Track, which was sponsored by Jensen Sales & Service, drew a season-high total of 117 cars, including a season-high 33 Akright Auto Plymouth Dirt Track Racing-Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Cars, 38 Bumper to Bumper IRA 410 Sprint Cars, 28 Autometer Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Cars and 18 IRA Lightning Sprints.

The 2023 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Awards presentation will take place on Saturday, Oct. 14 at Racers Hall in Plymouth, Wis. starting at 7 p.m. The top three finishers and special award winners in the 360 Sprint Car, Grand National, B Mod and Late Model divisions will be honored during the event.

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 [9]; 2. 98-Brandon McMullen [4]; 3. 35-Ben Schmidt [5]; 4. 69-Bill Taylo r[1]; 5. 63K-Kevin Karnitz [8]; 6. 69S-TJ Smith [7]; 7. 85J-Logan Julien [13]; 8. 2-Chris Clayton [15]; 9. 16-Anthony Knierim [6]; 10. 10V-Matt VanderVere [10]; 11. 3-Justin Erickson [16]; 12. 44-Hayden Johnson [17]; 13. 51-Chris Larson [19]; 14. 11-Tony Wondra [11]; 15. 21H-TJ Haddy [14]; 16. 30-Doug Wondra [21]; 17. 66-Nick Daywalt [20]; 18. 52-Cody Schlafer [22]; 19. 6K-Kurt Davis [3]; 20. 12P-JJ Pagel [18]; 21. 4-Alex Pokorski [2]; 22. (DNF) 22B-Brandon Berth [12]

B Main (15 Laps): 1. 3-Justin Erickson [1]; 2. 44-Hayden Johnson [5]; 3. 12P-JJ Pagel [2]; 4. 51-Chris Larson [4]; 5. 66-Nick Daywalt [3]; 6. 30-Doug Wondra [6]; 7. 08-Katelyn Krebsbach [9]; 8. 66T-Tristan Koenings [10]; 9. 53A-Spyder Akright [14]; 10. 54-Randy Post [8]; 11. 22-Greg Alt [7]; 12. 38-Ben Doak [11]; 13. (DNF) 7-Kristian Wagner [13]; 14. (DNF) 25-Kasey Schlafer [12]; 15. (DNS) 29J-Ralph Johnson; 16. (DNS) 26-Al Schlafer; 17. (DNS) 55S-Ryan Sawusch

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 16-Anthony Knierim [1]; 2. 6K-Kurt Davis [2]; 3. 4-Alex Pokorski [4]; 4. 21H-TJ Haddy [3]; 5. 3-Justin Erickson [5]; 6. 30-Doug Wondra [6]; 7. 54-Randy Post [8]; 8. 7-Kristian Wagner [7]; 9. (DNS) 26-Al Schlafer

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 69S-TJ Smith [2]; 2. 98-Brandon McMullen [3]; 3. 35-Ben Schmidt [6]; 4. 44-Hayden Johnson [1]; 5. 66-Nick Daywalt [5]; 6. 52-Cody Schlafer [8]; 7. (DNF) 66T-Tristan Koenings [4]; 8. (DNF) 55S-Ryan Sawusch [7]

Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 39S-Scotty Thiel [4]; 2. 53A-Paul Pokorski [1]; 3. 11-Tony Wondra [2]; 4. 85J-Logan Julien [3]; 5. 2-Chris Clayton [5]; 6. 22B-Brandon Berth [8]; 7. 08-Katelyn Krebsbach [6]; 8. 38-Ben Doak [7]

Heat 4 (8 Laps): 1. 63K-Kevin Karnitz [4]; 2. 69-Bill Taylor [1]; 3. 10V-Matt VanderVere [3]; 4. 51-Chris Larson [2]; 5. 12P-JJ Pagel [5]; 6. 22-Greg Alt [6]; 7. 25-Kasey Schlafer [8]; 8. (DNS) 29J-Ralph Johnson

Qualifying 1: 1. 4-Alex Pokorski, 12.238 [1]; 2. 21H-TJ Haddy, 12.249 [8]; 3. 6K-Kurt Davis, 12.269 [7]; 4. 16-Anthony Knierim, 12.326 [3]; 5. 3-Justin Erickson, 12.557 [5]; 6. 30-Doug Wondra, 12.740 [4]; 7. 7-Kristian Wagner, 13.203 [9]; 8. 54-Randy Post, 13.511 [2]; 9. 26-Al Schlafer, 14.590 [6]

Qualifying 2: 1. 66T-Tristan Koenings, 12.296 [1]; 2. 98-Brandon McMullen, 12.334 [3]; 3. 69S-TJ Smith, 12.376 [7]; 4. 44-Hayden Johnson, 12.506 [2]; 5. 66-Nick Daywalt, 12.602 [6]; 6. 35-Ben Schmidt, 12.704 [4]; 7. 52-Cody Schlafer, 15.020 [8]; 8. 55S-Ryan Sawusch, 15.043 [5]

Qualifying 3: 1. 39S-Scotty Thiel, 12.218 [3]; 2. 85J-Logan Julien, 12.275 [7]; 3. 11-Tony Wondra, 12.361 [5]; 4. 53A-Paul Pokorski, 12.484 [6]; 5. 2-Chris Clayton, 12.507 [2]; 6. 08-Katelyn Krebsbach, 12.560 [4]; 7. 38-Ben Doak, 13.204 [8]; 8. (DNS) 22B-Brandon Berth, 13.204

Qualifying 4: 1. 63K-Kevin Karnitz, 12.194 [3]; 2. 10V-Matt VanderVere, 12.447 [6]; 3. 51-Chris Larson, 12.528 [1]; 4. 69-Bill Taylor, 12.791 [7]; 5. 12P-JJ Pagel, 13.010 [5]; 6. 22-Greg Alt, 13.065 [4]; 7. 29J-Ralph Johnson, 13.386 [2]; 8. 25-Kasey Schlafer, 16.515 [8]

BUMPER TO BUMPER 410 SPRINT CARS

A Main (30 Laps): 1. 17B-Bill Balog [1]; 2. 1-Brenham Crouch [5]; 3. 73-Scotty Thiel [6]; 4. 50-JJ Hickle [3]; 5. 10W-Mike Reinke [4]; 6. 25-Danny Schlafer [14]; 7. 65-Jordan Goldesberry [7]; 8. 2W-Scott Neitzel [8]; 9. 16C-Tylar Rankin [13]; 10. U2-Jack Vanderboom [15]; 11. 49-Josh Schneiderman [12]; 12. 21-Will Gerrits [16]; 13. 5J-Jeremy Schultz [19]; 14. 9K-Kyle Schuett [10]; 15. 23-Russel Borland [18]; 16. 47-Todd King [24]; 17. 3N-Jake Neuman [21]; 18. 13-Van Gurley Jr [23]; 19. 85M-Steve Meyer [22]; 20. 87A-Austin Hartmann [20]; 21. 16-Anthony Knierim [9]; 22. (DNF) 79-Blake Nimee [17]; 23. (DNF) 88M-Austin McCarl [2]; 24. (DNF) 26-Tyler Tischendorf [11]

B Main (10 Laps): 1. 3N-Jake Neuman [4]; 2. 85M-Steve Meyer [1]; 3. 13-Van Gurley Jr [3]; 4. 47-Todd King [5]; 5. 85J-Logan Julien [12]; 6. 4K-Kris Spitz [10]; 7. 25T-Travis Arenz [18]; 8. 99-Tyler Brabant [6]; 9. 14AJ-Ryan Zielski [9]; 10. 43-Jereme Schroeder [14]; 11. 7A-Will Armitage [8]; 12. 24-Scott Conger [16]; 13. 88-Chris Flick [13]; 14. 38-Allen Hafford [11]; 15. 17W-Dylan Winkel [15]; 16. 39V-William Huck [17]; 17. (DNF) 19CW-Ion Stear [7]; 18. (DNF) 68-Dave Uttech [2]

Dash 1 (4 Laps): 1. 17B-Bill Balog [1]; 2. 50-JJ Hickle [2]; 3. 1-Brenham Crouch [3]; 4. 65-Jordan Goldesberry [4]; 5. 16-Anthony Knierim [5]

Dash 2 (4 Laps): 1. 88M-Austin McCarl [2]; 2. 10W-Mike Reinke [1]; 3. 73-Scotty Thiel [4]; 4. 2W-Scott Neitzel [3]; 5. 9K-Kyle Schuett [5]

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 1-Brenham Crouch [1]; 2. 26-Tyler Tischendorf [2]; 3. 50-JJ Hickle [4]; 4. 16-Anthony Knierim [3]; 5. 79-Blake Nimee [5]; 6. 13-Van Gurley Jr [7]; 7. 47-Todd King [6]; 8. 14AJ-Ryan Zielski [8]; 9. 88-Chris Flick [9]; 10. 39V-William Huck [10]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 65-Jordan Goldesberry [1]; 2. 17B-Bill Balog [4]; 3. 16C-Tylar Rankin [3]; 4. U2-Jack Vanderboom [2]; 5. 5J-Jeremy Schultz [7]; 6. 85M-Steve Meyer [5]; 7. 19CW-Ion Stear [6]; 8. 38-Allen Hafford [8]; 9. 17W-Dylan Winkel [9]

Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 88M-Austin McCarl [3]; 2. 49-Josh Schneiderman [2]; 3. 21-Will Gerrits [5]; 4. 23-Russel Borland [6]; 5. 10W-Mike Reinke [4]; 6. 3N-Jake Neuman [7]; 7. 4K-Kris Spitz [8]; 8. 43-Jereme Schroeder [9]; 9. 25T-Travis Arenz [10]; 10. (DNS) 68-Dave Uttech

Heat 4 (8 Laps): 1. 73-Scotty Thiel [1]; 2. 25-Danny Schlafer [2]; 3. 2W-Scott Neitzel [4]; 4. 9K-Kyle Schuett [3]; 5. 87A-Austin Hartmann [6]; 6. 99-Tyler Brabant [7]; 7. 7A-Will Armitage [5]; 8. 85J-Logan Julien [8]; 9. 24-Scott Conger [9]

Qualifying A: 1. 50-JJ Hickle, 11.249 [1]; 2. 17B-Bill Balog, 11.261 [4]; 3. 16-Anthony Knierim, 11.364 [10]; 4. 16C-Tylar Rankin, 11.396 [6]; 5. 26-Tyler Tischendorf, 11.471 [18]; 6. U2-Jack Vanderboom, 11.474 [13]; 7. 1-Brenham Crouch, 11.475 [5]; 8. 65-Jordan Goldesberry, 11.511 [14]; 9. 79-Blake Nimee, 11.513 [16]; 10. 85M-Steve Meyer, 11.553 [8]; 11. 47-Todd King, 11.589 [7]; 12. 19CW-Ion Stear, 11.685 [17]; 13. 13-Van Gurley Jr, 11.690 [15]; 14. 5J-Jeremy Schultz, 12.08 0[9]; 15. 14AJ-Ryan Zielski, 12.106 [11]; 16. 38-Allen Hafford, 12.180 [3]; 17. 88-Chris Flick, 12.369 [19]; 18. 17W-Dylan Winkel, 12.464 [12]; 19. 39V-William Huck, 12.471 [2]

Qualifying B: 1. 10W-Mike Reinke, 11.251 [15]; 2. 2W-Scott Neitzel, 11.286 [19]; 3. 88M-Austin McCarl, 11.351 [18]; 4. 9K-Kyle Schuett, 11.375 [5]; 5. 49-Josh Schneiderman, 11.396 [11]; 6. 25-Danny Schlafer, 11.408 [10]; 7. 68-Dave Uttech, 11.460 [7]; 8. 73-Scotty Thiel, 11.540 [2]; 9. 21-Will Gerrits, 11.616 [17]; 10. 7A-Will Armitage, 11.640 [14]; 11. 23-Russel Borland,  11.648 [12]; 12. 87A-Austin Hartmann, 11.696 [8]; 13. 3N-Jake Neuman, 11.717 [6]; 14. 99-Tyler Brabant, 11.762 [13]; 15. 4K-Kris Spitz, 11.812 [4]; 16. 85J-Logan Julien, 11.823 [9]; 17. 43-Jereme Schroeder, 12.024 [1]; 18. 24-Scott Conger, 12.166 [16]; 19. 25T-Travis Arenz, 12.269 [3]

Hot Laps: 1. 88M-Austin McCarl, 11.596 [37]; 2. 49-Josh Schneiderman, 11.661 [30]; 3. 2W-Scott Neitzel, 11.724 [38]; 4. 10W-Mike Reinke, 11.740 [34]; 5. 23-Russel Borland, 11.744 [31]; 6. 9K-Kyle Schuett, 11.984 [24]; 7. 7A-Will Armitage, 12.010 [33]; 8. 73-Scotty Thiel, 12.061 [21]; 9. 65-Jordan Goldesberry, 12.115 [14]; 10. 25-Danny Schlafer, 12.213 [29]; 11. 1-Brenham Crouch, 12.235 [5]; 12. 13-Van Gurley Jr, 12.328 [15]; 13. 43-Jereme Schroeder, 12.400 [20]; 14. 50-JJ Hickle, 12.419 [1]; 15. 19CW-Ion Stear, 12.506 [17]; 16. U2-Jack Vanderboom, 12.517 [13]; 17. 21-Will Gerrits, 12.563 [36]; 18. 24-Scott Conger, 12.656 [35]; 19. 17B-Bill Balog, 12.682 [4]; 20. 68-Dave Uttech, 12.693 [26]; 21. 26-Tyler Tischendorf, 12.751 [18]; 22. 87A-Austin Hartmann, 12.773 [27]; 23. 99-Tyler Brabant, 12.775 [32]; 24. 38-Allen Hafford, 12.913 [3]; 25. 16C-Tylar Rankin, 12.935 [6]; 26. 79-Blake Nimee, 12.997 [16]; 27. 85J-Logan Julien, 13.078 [28]; 28. 47-Todd King, 13.118 [7]; 29. 5J-Jeremy Schultz, 13.147 [9]; 30. 16-Anthony Knierim, 13.149 [10]; 31. 3N-Jake Neuman, 13.211 [25]; 32. 25T-Travis Arenz, 13.239 [22]; 33. 88-Chris Flick, 13.302 [19]; 34. 14AJ-Ryan Zielski, 13.323 [11]; 35. 85M-Steve Meyer, 13.368 [8]; 36. 4K-Kris Spitz,  13.426 [23]; 37. 39V-William Huck, 14.171 [2]; 38. 17W-Dylan Winkel, 14.863 [12]

WISCONSIN WINGLESS SPRINT CARS

A Main (20 Laps): 1. 91-Jimmy Sivia [6]; 2. 7X-Ryan Marshall [4]; 3. 70-Chris Klemko [3]; 4. 50-Rusty Egan [1]; 5. 38-Allen Hafford [5]; 6. 24-Eric Wilke [9]; 7. 14Z-Ryan Zielski [7]; 8. 09-Clayton Rossmann [8]; 9. 40-Tim Cox [2]; 10. 0-John Fahl [10]; 11. 11D-Zach Raidart [15]; 12. 14AJ-Derek Crane [18]; 13. 57F-Tristan Furseth [13]; 14. 11-Austin Hansen [16]; 15. 711-Tyler Kuxhouse [14]; 16. 24J-Ralph Johnson [11]; 17. 17-Bryce Andrews [12]; 18. 41-Dennis Spitz [22]; 19. 4-Jordan Paulsen [24]; 20. 12-Shawn Swim [19]; 21. 29OG-Tom Eller [17]; 22. 7D-Josh Davidson [23]; 23. 99J-Seth Johnson [20]; 24. 7-Trinity Uttech [21]

B Main (10 Laps): 1. 7-Trinity Uttech [2]; 2. 41-Dennis Spitz [3]; 3. 7D-Josh Davidson [1]; 4. 4-Jordan Paulsen [8]; 5. 22-Greg Alt [7]; 6. 4G-George Gaertner III [4]; 7. 66-Will Lynn [5]; 8. (DNS) 4L-Lance Thompson

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 24J-Ralph Johnson [2]; 2. 57F-Tristan Furseth [3]; 3. 11D-Zach Raidart [7]; 4. 29OG-Tom Eller [5]; 5. 12-Shawn Swim [8]; 6. 7D-Josh Davidson [4]; 7. 41-Dennis Spitz [6]; 8. 66-Will Lynn [9]; 9. (DNF) 22-Greg Alt [1]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 17-Bryce Andrews [2]; 2. 711-Tyler Kuxhouse [6]; 3. 11-Austin Hansen [4]; 4. 14AJ-Derek Crane [5]; 5. 99J-Seth Johnson [1]; 6. 7-Trinity Uttech [3]; 7. 4G-George Gaertner III [7]; 8. 4L-Lance Thompson [8]; 9. 4-Jordan Paulsen [9]

A-Feature Lock In Hot Laps: 1. 91-Jimmy Sivia, 13.738 [3]; 2. 14Z-Ryan Zielski, 13.796 [2]; 3. 24-Eric Wilke, 13.850 [9]; 4. 70-Chris Klemko, 13.889 [6]; 5. 50-Rusty Egan, 13.889 [8]; 6. 40-Tim Cox, 13.959 [7]; 7. 0-John Fahl, 14.030 [10]; 8. 38-Allen Hafford, 14.698 [4]; 9. (DNS) 09-Clayton Rossmann; 10. (DNS) 7X-Ryan Marshall

All Other Hot Laps: 1. 711-Tyler Kuxhouse, 14.249 [11]; 2. 17-Bryce Andrews, 14.303 [2]; 3. 7-Trinity Uttech, 14.376 [18]; 4. 14AJ-Derek Crane, 14.447 [3]; 5. 4L-Lance Thompson, 14.514 [17]; 6. 99J-Seth Johnson, 14.544 [10]; 7. 11-Austin Hansen, 14.794 [8]; 8. 11D-Zach Raidart, 14.884 [14]; 9. 4G-George Gaertner III, 14.999 [7]; 10. 57F-Tristan Furseth, 15.040 [6]; 11. 4-Jordan Paulsen, 15.393 [13]; 12. 29OG-Tom Eller, 15.789 [5]; 13. 24J-Ralph Johnson, 15.996 [9]; 14. 41-Dennis Spitz, 16.013 [15]; 15. 12-Shawn Swim, 16.278 [16]; 16. 7D-Josh Davidson, 16.334 [4]; 17. 22-Greg Alt, 16.355 [1]; 18. 66-Will Lynn, 16.391 [12]

IRA LIGHTNING SPRINTS

A Main (20 Laps): 1. 55H-Mark Heinert [4]; 2. 16-Mike Neau [1]; 3. 22S-Brian Strane Jr [6]; 4. 18-Nick Petska [3]; 5. 74-Tim Brannam [5]; 6. 74M-Max Brannam [2]; 7. 87R-Josh Rehberg [12]; 8. 9-John Kirk [10]; 9. 63-Jacob Irwin [9]; 10. 17-Jordan Funderburk [16]; 11. 01-Ron Brannam [14]; 12. 0-Grant Harvey [13]; 13. 55X-Xander York [8]; 14. 23-Dominick Swierad [15]; 15. 33-Dakota Duncanson [17]; 16. (DNF) 18Q-Chris Quillman [7]; 17. (DNF) 6-Jeff Schmidt [11]; 18. (DNF) 7-Carl Stur t[18]

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 55H-Mark Heinert [4]; 2. 74-Tim Brannam [2]; 3. 74M-Max Brannam [3]; 4. 18Q-Chris Quillman [1]; 5. 63-Jacob Irwin [6]; 6. 0-Grant Harvey [8]; 7. 6-Jeff Schmidt [5]; 8. 23-Dominick Swierad [7]; 9. 33-Dakota Duncanson [9]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 22S-Brian Strane Jr [2]; 2. 18-Nick Petska [4]; 3. 16-Mike Neau [3]; 4. 9-John Kirk [6]; 5. 55X-Xander York [1]; 6. 87R-Josh Rehberg [5]; 7. 01-Ron Brannam [7]; 8. 17-Jordan Funderburk [8]; 9. (DNF) 7-Carl Sturt [9]

Qualifying: 1. 55H-Mark Heinert, 14.517 [18]; 2. 18-Nick Petska, 14.681 [13]; 3. 74M-Max Brannam, 14.903 [5]; 4. 16-Mike Neau, 15.236 [12]; 5. 74-Tim Brannam, 15.383 [7]; 6. 22S-Brian Strane Jr, 15.396 [6]; 7. 18Q-Chris Quillman, 15.438 [10]; 8. 55X-Xander York, 15.636 [17]; 9. 6-Jeff Schmidt, 15.701 [14]; 10. 87R-Josh Rehberg, 15.710 [15]; 11. 63-Jacob Irwin, 15.760 [3]; 12. 9-John Kirk, 15.892 [4]; 13. 23-Dominick Swierad, 16.208 [2]; 14. 01-Ron Brannam, 16.382 [8]; 15. 0-Grant Harvey, 16.547 [9]; 16. 17-Jordan Funderburk, 17.316 [1]; 17. 33-Dakota Duncanson, 24.124 [11]; 18. (DNS) 7-Carl Sturt

Anvelink sews up Dirt Kings title with Plymouth Wildman Watson Classic triumph

Zielke, Schmidt, Eisel notch Plymouth A-main victories

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

Nick Anvelink of Bonduel secured his second career Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Late Model A-main victory, while nailing down his sixth WABAM Dirt Kings Late Model Tour championship, during the sixth annual Jim Wildman Watson Classic at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis on Saturday, Sept. 23. – RC Custom Design photo

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) September 23, 2023 – Nick Anvelink of Bonduel outdueled 2014 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Late Model champion Mitch McGrath of Waukesha to collect the 30-lap Jim Wildman Watson Classic Presented by Galloping Ghost Motorsports and Transportation main event victory and wrap up his sixth career WABAM Dirt Kings Late Model Tour championship at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 23.

Ryan Zielski of Oconomowoc turned back a late challenge from Zach Raidart of Gurnee, Ill. to post a victory in the 20-lap Autometer Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car A main.

Jayden Schmidt of Seymour rode the high groove to victory lane in the 20-lap A Modified main event and Jason Eisel of Rhinelander was victorious in the 20-lap Street Stock A main.

In the sixth annual Jim Wildman Watson Classic Dirt Kings Late Model Tour A main, outside front row starter Mitch McGrath jumped into the lead in turn two on the opening lap with polesitter Sawyer Specht of Sheboygan Falls settling into second.

The first of six caution flags appeared on lap 3 for debris. When the race resumed, third starter Nick Anvelink worked past Specht to take over second with fourth starter Jordan Yaggy of Rochester, Minn. in tow.

The second caution flag was displayed on lap 4 when Paul Niznik of Medford and five-time Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Late Model champion Brad Mueller of Random Lake spun in turn two. On the restart, Yaggy slipped past Anvelink to assume the runner-up spot on lap 5 before Anvelink battled back to regain second from Yaggy on lap 7.

A two-car incident involving Niznik and Chris Engels of Green Bay in turn three brought out the third caution flag of the race on lap 8. McGrath bolted away from Anvelink on the ensuing restart as he held his 74M machine tight to the inside lane of the smooth, wide and multi-groove third-mile clay oval racing surface. Meanwhile, sixth starter Kyle Raddant of Shawano used the high groove to power around fifth starter Justin Ritchie of New London into fourth on lap 14.

Three laps later, McGrath caught the rear of the field and began to work his way through lapped traffic as Anvelink cut into the lead gap. On lap 23, Raddant spun along the cushion in turn three to bring out the fourth caution flag.

After choosing to restart the race in the outside lane, Anvelink worked the high and middle grooves to pull off what proved to be the winning move as he charged past McGrath coming to the start-finish line to begin lap 24.

The fifth caution flag was displayed on lap 25 for the slowing car of Joel Bennett Hortonville. McGrath restarted in the outside lane and attempted to use the outside groove to challenge Anvelink for the top spot. However, Anvelink pulled away from McGrath along the inside lane before the sixth and final caution period on lap 26 for an incident involving Justin Ritchie and Jayden Schmidt in turn two.

Anvelink controlled the final restart to pull away from McGrath over the final four laps en route to his second career Late Model A-main victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track, which was worth $2,500.

“I knew it was going to be a tough race with Mitch [McGrath] starting in front of us,” Anvelink said. “Mitch was really good on the bottom in the early part of the race. I had a really good restart after finding something in the middle of the track and everything played to our favor to get the lead.”

McGrath had to settle for second, Yaggy took third, Bill Edler of Howards Grove charged from the 19th starting spot to place fourth and 16th starter Brett Swedberg of Shawano rounded out the top five.

Ryan Zielski of Oconomowoc notched his third career Plymouth Dirt Track Racing A-main victory in the 20-lap Jim Wildman Watson Classic Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car main event at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 23. – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

In the 20-lap Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car Series A main, Bryce Andrews of Kenosha jumped into the lead from the pole before outside front row starter Ryan Zielski rode the high grove into the lead in turn two on lap 2.

As Zielski bolted out to a commanding lead, eighth starter Zach Raidart worked the high line to move into fourth on lap before pulling off a nifty two-for-one move to sweep past both Andrews and fifth starter Clayton Rossman of Wadsworth, Ill. and take over second in the running order.

On lap 14, Zielski was negotiating his way through dense lapped traffic when the lone caution of race appeared for the stalled car of Greg Alt of Watertown in turn two.

Following the restart, Raidart powered in to challenge Zielski for the top spot along the high groove on lap 15. Two laps later, Raidart pulled even with Zielski exiting turn two before pulling off a slide job entering turn three to take over the lead briefly in turn four.

However, Zielski battled back by turning under Raidart and regained the top spot heading down the front stretch on lap 18. As Zielski again powered away from the rest of the field, seventh starter Ryan Marshall of Kansasville worked his way into third along the high line.

Zielski cruised over the final two circuits to notch his third career Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car main event triumph at The Plymouth Dirt Track and fifth A-main victory of the 2023 Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car Series campaign, while collecting the $1,200 first-place prize.

Raidart placed second, Marshall finished third, Rossmann wound up fourth and fourth starter Jimmy Sivia of Winthrop Harbor, Ill. placed fifth after starting fourth.

Jayden Schmidt of Seymour notched his first career Plymouth Dirt Track Racing A-main victory in the 20-lap Jim Wildman Watson A Modified main event at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 23. – JW’s Car and Raccing Photos

Polesitter Joel Seegert of Sheboygan grabbed the lead of the 20-lap A Modified main event before the first of three caution flags appeared before one official lap could be completed when Mike Simons of Genoa City hit the front stretch wall.

Following a complete restart, Seegert again seized the top spot with third starter Jeff Steenbergen of Johnson Creek following in second. On lap 5, the second caution flag of the race was displayed when Steve Mueller of Eagle spun along the backstretch.

When the race resumed, fourth starter Jayden Schmidt used the high groove to move around Steenbergen into second. Two laps later, Schmidt, Steenbergen and Seegert went three wide in turn four with Schmidt emerging on top heading down the front stretch.

After dueling side by side over the next two laps, Steenbergen surged past Seegert into second on lap 10. The third and final caution flag appeared later on lap 10 when Steve Lorier of Sheboygan spun in turn four and Joel Crowbridge of Union Grove stalled in turn two.

Schmidt flexed his muscle following the final restart and pulled away from the field during the second half of the race to pocket $1,100 for his first career A-main victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track in the A Modified division.

Steenbergen came home second, Seegert took third, Joe Huenefeld of Freeport, Ill. moved up from the ninth starting spot to place fourth and three-time Plymouth Dirt Track Racing B Mod champion Tim Warner of Malone rounded out the top five after starting fifth.

Polesitter James Fletcher of Beaver Dam led the opening lap of the 20-lap Street Stock A main before outside front row starter Jason Eisel used the outside line to take over the top spot in turn four on the second circuit.

Jason Eisel of Rhinelander picked up his first career Plymouth Dirt Track Street Stock A-main triumph in the 20-lap Jim Wildman Watson Classic main event at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 23. – JW’s Car and Raccing photo

With Eisel riding comfortably at the front of the field, sixth starter Jon Schultz of Waunakee moved into third place by passing fourth starter Kelly Brown of Beaver Dam on lap 8.

On lap 17, Eisel found himself negotiating voluminous lapped traffic as Schultz worked his way into second in turn three on lap 18 before Fletcher struck back to regain second in turn four on lap 19.

Eisel went on to pocket $700 for his first career Street Stock A-main victory at The Plymouth Dirt Track in the caution-free event.

Fletcher placed second, Schultz placed third, fourth starter Kelly Brown of Beaver Dam wound up fourth and Jesse Krahn of Beaver Dam moved up from the seventh starting spot to complete the top five.

Eric Wilke won the 10-lap Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car B main and Brad McGuire of New Berlin earned the victory in the 10-lap A Modified B main.

Mitch McGrath earned top overall WABAM Dirt Kings Late Model Tour qualifying honors with a fast lap of 14.172 seconds.

Chris Klemko claimed the fast qualifier award in the Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car division with a lap of 14.302 seconds.

Jayden Schmidt was the top qualifier in the A Modified division with a lap of 15.480 seconds.

Kelly Brown earned fast qualifier accolades in the Street Stock division with a time of 16.777 seconds.

The 17th event of the 2023 campaign at The Plymouth Dirt Track drew a total of 110 cars, including 23 Dirt Kings Late Model Tour cars, 28 Autometer Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Car Series cars, 36 A Modifieds and 23 Street Stocks.

The 2023 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing season will conclude with the Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships on Saturday, Sept. 30 featuring the 2023 season finales for the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Cars, Plymouth Dirt Track Racing – Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Cars, Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Cars and IRA Lightning Sprints.

Pit gates open at 2 p.m. with spectator gates opening at 4:30 p.m. and on-track action at 4:45 p.m., followed by hot laps, qualifying and racing.

The 2023 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing awards presentation will take place on Saturday, Oct. 14 at Racers Hall in Plymouth, Wis. starting at 7 p.m. The top three finishers and special award winners in the 360 Sprint Car, Grand National, B Mod and Late Model divisions will be honored during the event.

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.

WABAM DIRT KINGS LATE MODEL TOUR

Galloping Ghost Motorsports Transportation 6th Annual Watson Classic (30 Laps): 1. 15-Nick Anvelink [3]; 2. 74-Mitch McGrath [2]; 3. 77Y-Jordan Yaggy [4]; 4. 77-Bill Edler [19]; 5. 3-Brett Swedberg [16]; 6. 10P-Paul Parker [8]; 7. 66-Ron Berna [9]; 8. 81-Troy Springborn [22]; 9. 22-Charlie Schmidt [7]; 10. 9N-Tom Naeyaert [11]; 11. 99-Sawyer Specht [1]; 12. 55-Joe Bongiorno [13]; 13. 24-Turk Letizia [14]; 14. (DNF) 70-Justin Ritchie [5]; 15. (DNF) 24S-Jayden Schmidt [20]; 16. (DNF) 7-Joel Bennett [10]; 17. (DNF) 03-Kyle Raddant [6]; 18. (DNF) 5-Lukas Postl [15]; 19. (DNF) 14-Travis Jellum [18]; 20. (DNF) 89-Brad Mueller [21]; 21. (DNF) 33E-Chris Engels [12]; 22. (DNF) 42N-Paul Niznik [17]; 23. (DNS) 29-Spencer Diercks

Klink Equipment Heat 1 (10 Laps): 1. 15-Nick Anvelink [1]; 2. 70-Justin Ritchie [2]; 3. 22-Charlie Schmidt [3]; 4. 66-Ron Berna [5]; 5. 33E-Chris Engels [6]; 6. 5-Lukas Postl [4]; 7. 14-Travis Jellum [7]; 8. (DNS) 89-Brad Mueller

Ken’s Sports Inc. Heat 2 (10 Laps): 1. 74-Mitch McGrath [1]; 2. 77Y-Jordan Yaggy [2]; 3. 29-Spencer Diercks [3]; 4. 7-Joel Bennett [4]; 5. 55-Joe Bongiorno [5]; 6. 3-Brett Swedberg [6]; 7. 77-Bill Edler [8]; 8. 81-Troy Springborn [7]

Wehrs Machine Heat 3 (10 Laps): 1. 99-Sawyer Specht [1]; 2. 03-Kyle Raddant [2]; 3. 10P-Paul Parker [3]; 4. 9N-Tom Naeyaert [4]; 5. 24-Turk Letizia [5]; 6. 42N-Paul Niznik [6]; 7. 24S-Jayden Schmidt [7]

Klink Equipment Qualifying 1: 1. 15-Nick Anvelink, 14.205 [8]; 2. 70-Justin Ritchie, 14.692 [6]; 3. 22-Charlie Schmidt, 14.794 [7]; 4. 5-Lukas Postl, 14.822 [2]; 5. 66-Ron Berna, 14.867 [5]; 6. 33E-Chris Engels, 15.159 [4]; 7. 14-Travis Jellum, 15.559 [3]; 8. (DNF) 89-Brad Mueller, 15.559 [1]

Ken’s Sports Inc Qualifying 2: 1. 74-Mitch McGrath, 14.172 [6]; 2. 77Y-Jordan Yaggy, 14.346 [3]; 3. 29-Spencer Diercks, 14.401 [1]; 4. 7-Joel Bennett, 14.510 [7]; 5. 55-Joe Bongiorno, 14.646 [2]; 6. 3-Brett Swedberg, 14.837 [8]; 7. 81-Troy Springborn, 14.857 [4]; 8. 77-Bill Edler, 15.050 [5]

Wehrs Machine Qualifying 3: 1. 99-Sawyer Specht, 14.367 [6]; 2. 03-Kyle Raddant, 14.451 [3]; 3. 10P-Paul Parker, 14.667 [1]; 4. 9N-Tom Naeyaert, 14.689 [5]; 5. 24-Turk Letizia, 14.775 [7]; 6. 42N-Paul Niznik, 14.835 [4]; 7. 24S-Jayden Schmidt, 14.840 [2]

WISCONSIN WINGLESS SPRINT CARS

A Main (20 Laps): 1. 14Z-Ryan Zielski [2]; 2. 11D-Zach Raidart [8]; 3. 7X-Ryan Marshall [7]; 4. 09-Clayton Rossmann [5]; 5. 91-Jimmy Sivia [4]; 6. 14AJ-Derek Crane [10]; 7. 17-Bryce Andrews [1]; 8. 40-Tim Cox [11]; 9. 38-Allen Hafford [3]; 10. 70-Chris Klemko [6]; 11. 11-Austin Hansen [13]; 12. 711-Tyler Kuxhouse [9]; 13. 24-Eric Wilke [19]; 14. 7D-Josh Davidson [15]; 15. 50-Rusty Egan [14]; 16. 66-Nathan Crane [12]; 17. 29OG-Tom Eller [17]; 18. 12-Shawn Swim [20]; 19. 24J-Ralph Johnson [18]; 20. 71-Andy Dei [22]; 21. 57F-Tristan Furseth [23]; 22. 7-Trinity Uttech [21]; 23. 00-Jason Young [24]; 24. (DNF) 22-Greg Alt [16]

B Main (10 Laps): 1. 24-Eric Wilke [3]; 2. 12-Shawn Swim [1]; 3. 7-Trinity Uttech [4]; 4. 71-Andy Dei [7]; 5. 57F-Tristan Furseth [9]; 6. 00-Jason Young [8]; 7. 99J-Seth Johnson [5]; 8. 4L-Lance Thompson [2]; 9. 4G-George Gaertner III [10]; 10. 52-Craig Lager [6]

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 11D-Zach Raidart [1]; 2. 7X-Ryan Marshall [2]; 3. 38-Allen Hafford [3]; 4. 70-Chris Klemko [4]; 5. 50-Rusty Egan [5]; 6. 24J-Ralph Johnson [8]; 7. 24-Eric Wilke [7]; 8. 12-Shawn Swim [6]; 9. 57F-Tristan Furseth [10]; 10. 4G-George Gaertner III [9]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 711-Tyler Kuxhouse [1]; 2. 09-Clayton Rossmann [4]; 3. 14Z-Ryan Zielski [3]; 4. 40-Tim Cox [2]; 5. 7D-Josh Davidson [5]; 6. 22-Greg Alt [6]; 7. 7-Trinity Uttech [8]; 8. 71-Andy Dei [9]; 9. 00-Jason Young [7]

Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 14AJ-Derek Crane [1]; 2. 91-Jimmy Sivia [4]; 3. 17-Bryce Andrews [3]; 4. 66-Nathan Crane [5]; 5. 11-Austin Hansen [2]; 6. 29OG-Tom Elle r[7]; 7. 99J-Seth Johnson [9]; 8. 52-Craig Lager [8]; 9. 4L-Lance Thompson [6]

Qualifying: 1. 70-Chris Klemko, 14.302 [25]; 2. 09-Clayton Rossmann, 14.375 [24]; 3. 91-Jimmy Sivia, 14.415 [23]; 4. 38-Allen Hafford, 14.439 [21]; 5. 14Z-Ryan Zielski, 14.459 [12]; 6. 17-Bryce Andrews, 14.479 [20]; 7. 7X-Ryan Marshall, 14.593 [19]; 8. 40-Tim Cox, 14.605 [17]; 9. 11-Austin Hansen, 14.691 [7]; 10. 11D-Zach Raidart, 14.695 [26]; 11. 711-Tyler Kuxhouse, 14.705 [9]; 12. 14AJ-Derek Crane, 14.784 [13]; 13. 50-Rusty Egan, 14.943 [1]; 14. 7D-Josh Davidson, 14.956 [4]; 15. 66-Nathan Crane, 14.980 [16]; 16. 12-Shawn Swim, 14.989 [28]; 17. 22-Greg Alt, 15.006 [3]; 18. 4L-Lance Thompson, 15.072 [10]; 19. 24-Eric Wilke, 15.081 [15]; 20. 00-Jason Young, 15.107 [18]; 21. 29OG-Tom Eller, 15.150 [6]; 22. 24J-Ralph Johnson, 15.174 [14]; 23. 7-Trinity Uttech, 15.222 [22]; 24. 52-Craig Lager, 15.230 [8]; 25. 4G-George Gaertner III, 15.649 [5]; 26. 71-Andy Dei, 15.683 [11]; 27. (DNF) 99J-Seth Johnson[2]; 28. (DNS) 57F-Tristan Furseth

A MODIFIEDS

A Main (20 Laps): 1. 24-Jayden Schmidt [4]; 2. 62S-Jeff Steenbergen [3]; 3. 3S-Joel Seegert [1]; 4. 33J-Joe Huenefeld [9]; 5. 03W-Tim Warner [5]; 6. 17-Mike Klenz [6]; 7. 3M-Randy Markwardt Jr. [2]; 8. 18-Matt Klenz [11]; 9. 47G-Ben Godlewski [10]; 10. 15S-Don Scheffler [15]; 11. 11-Bart Sievert [13]; 12. 52M-Brad McGuire [17]; 13. 10G-RJ Gerber [19]; 14. 66-Steve Lorier [16]; 15. 2J-Jason Wirth [14]; 16. 26-David Paskiewicz [20]; 17. (DNF) 28C-Joel Crowbridge [12]; 18. (DNF) 17W-Mitch Webber [7]; 19. (DNF) 2M-Steve Mueller [18]; 20. (DNF) 25-Mike Simons [8]

B Main (10 Laps): 1. 52M-Brad McGuire [1]; 2. 2M-Steve Mueller [3]; 3. 10G-RJ Gerber [5]; 4. 26-David Paskiewicz [7]; 5. 13-Don Paskiewicz [6]; 6. 17B-Scott Barnharst [2]; 7. 68-Tom Neubauer [10]; 8. 19-Gary Glander [4]; 9. 29P-Chris Pigeon [17]; 10. 28-AJ Izzo [15]; 11. 11B-Brad Buchman [16]; 12. 51J-Dustin Jackson [14]; 13. 6W-David Wirth [12]; 14. 21T-Mark Mikos JR [18]; 15. 64-Cory Lightfield [9]; 16. 117-Tom Barnharst [13]; 17. 22M-Barry Maas [8]; 18. A11-Ashley Stevens [11]; 19. (DNS) 88J-Jeremy Johnson; 20. (DNS) 30-John Dost

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 17W-Mitch Webber [1]; 2. 24-Jayden Schmidt [4]; 3. 3S-Joel Seegert [3]; 4. 66-Steve Lorier [6]; 5. 10G-RJ Gerber [9]; 6. 17B-Scott Barnharst [2]; 7. 68-Tom Neubauer [7]; 8. 51J-Dustin Jackson [8]; 9. 29P-Chris Pigeon [5]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 25-Mike Simons [1]; 2. 62S-Jeff Steenbergen [4]; 3. 03W-Tim Warner [3]; 4. 15S-Don Scheffler [5]; 5. 2M-Steve Mueller [2]; 6. 13-Don Paskiewicz [6]; 7. 6W-David Wirth [8]; 8. 117-Tom Barnharst [7]; 9. 88J-Jeremy Johnson [9]

Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 33J-Joe Huenefeld [1]; 2. 17-Mike Klenz [3]; 3. 3M-Randy Markwardt Jr. [4]; 4. 11-Bart Sievert [2]; 5. 19-Gary Glander [5]; 6. 22M-Barry Maas [7]; 7. 64-Cory Lightfield [6]; 8. 28-AJ Izzo [8]; 9. (DNS) 30-John Dost

Heat 4 (8 Laps): 1. 47G-Ben Godlewski [1]; 2. 18-Matt Klenz [3]; 3. 28C-Joel Crowbridge [5]; 4. 2J-Jason Wirth [2]; 5. 52M-Brad McGuire [4]; 6. 26-David Paskiewicz [6]; 7. A11-Ashley Stevens [7]; 8. 11B-Brad Buchman [9]; 9. 21T-Mark Mikos JR [8]

Qualifying: 1. 24-Jayden Schmidt, 15.480 [2]; 2. 62S-Jeff Steenbergen, 15.720 [34]; 3. 3M-Randy Markwardt Jr, 15.835 [27]; 4. 52M-Brad McGuire, 15.845 [16]; 5. 3S-Joel Seegert, 15.930 [23]; 6. 03W-Tim Warner, 15.949 [29]; 7. 17-Mike Klenz, 15.972 [20]; 8. 18-Matt Klenz, 15.999 [9]; 9. 17B-Scott Barnharst, 16.037 [19]; 10. 2M-Steve Mueller, 16.061 [18]; 11. 11-Bart Sievert, 16.094 [4]; 12. 2J-Jason Wirth, 16.097 [14]; 13. 17W-Mitch Webber, 16.134 [32]; 14. 25-Mike Simons, 16.152 [7]; 15. 33J-Joe Huenefeld, 16.214 [8]; 16. 47G-Ben Godlewski, 16.281 [33]; 17. 29P-Chris Pigeon, 16.366 [3]; 18. 15S-Don Scheffler, 16.383 [15]; 19. 19-Gary Glander, 16.576 [17]; 20. 28C-Joel Crowbridge, 16.619 [30]; 21. 66-Steve Lorier, 16.717 [25]; 22. 13-Don Paskiewicz, 16.762 [1]; 23. 64-Cory Lightfield, 16.861 [22]; 24. 26-David Paskiewicz, 16.874 [13]; 25. 68-Tom Neubauer, 16.884 [5]; 26. 117-Tom Barnharst, 16.889 [6]; 27. 22M-Barry Maas, 16.982 [36]; 28. A11-Ashley Stevens, 16.994 [10]; 29. 51J-Dustin Jackson, 17.056 [26]; 30. 6W-David Wirth, 17.090 [28]; 31. 28-AJ Izzo, 17.149 [11]; 32. 11B-Brad Buchman, 17.553 [35]; 33. 21T-Mark Mikos JR, 18.330 [12]; 34. 10G-RJ Gerber, 39.377 [24]; 35. (DNF) 88J-Jeremy Johnson, 39.377 [31]; 36. (DNS) 30-John Dost, 39.377

STREET STOCKS 

A Main (20 Laps): 1. 838-Jason Eisel [2]; 2. 75-James Fletcher [1]; 3. 11X-Jon Schultz [6]; 4. 44B-Kelly Brown [4]; 5. 55K-Jesse Krahn [7]; 6. 71-Edward Anschutz [5]; 7. 24S-Austin Steinke [3]; 8. 8M-Mike Meier [9]; 9. 95-Robby Olson [10]; 10. 99-Rob Maule [8]; 11. 1X-Nate Gross [14]; 12. 64Z-Mike Zitzer [11]; 13. 87-Parker Derks [17]; 14. 5-Todd Berzowski [13]; 15. 21S-John Sidesky [19]; 16. 65-Mark Baker [16]; 17. 55-Keith Stich [21]; 18. 28-Chuck Gilbertson Jr. [20]; 19. 52-Ernie Herlt [15]; 20. 14-Benjamin Mccoy [18]; 21. (DNF) 46A-Courtney Atkinson [22]; 22. (DNF) 83-Roman Blank [12]

Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 11X-Jon Schultz [2]; 2. 99-Rob Maule [1]; 3. 838-Jason Eisel [3]; 4. 44B-Kelly Brown [4]; 5. 5-Todd Berzowsk i[5]; 6. 87-Parker Derks [7]; 7. 21S-John Sidesky [6]; 8. 55-Keith Stich [8]

Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 55K-Jesse Krahn [2]; 2. 8M-Mike Meier [1]; 3. 75-James Fletcher [3]; 4. 83-Roman Blank [5]; 5. 52-Ernie Herlt [7]; 6. 14-Benjamin Mccoy [8]; 7. (DNF) 46A-Courtney Atkinson [4]; 8. (DNF) 52W-Jack Wiroll [6]

Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 71-Edward Anschutz [3]; 2. 64Z-Mike Zitzer [6]; 3. 24S-Austin Steinke [4]; 4. 95-Robby Olson [1]; 5. 1X-Nate Gross [5]; 6. 65-Mark Baker [2]; 7. 28-Chuck Gilbertson Jr [7]

Qualifying: 1. 44B-Kelly Brown, 16.777 [13]; 2. 46A-Courtney Atkinson, 16.812 [20]; 3. 24S-Austin Steinke, 16.815 [23]; 4. 838-Jason Eisel, 16.895 [4]; 5. 75-James Fletcher, 16.912 [9]; 6. 71-Edward Anschutz, 17.080 [8]; 7. 11X-Jon Schultz, 17.091 [1]; 8. 55K-Jesse Krahn, 17.124 [11]; 9. 65-Mark Baker, 17.156 [7]; 10. 99-Rob Maule, 17.190 [10]; 11. 8M-Mike Meier, 17.380 [3]; 12. 95-Robby Olson, 17.398 [12]; 13. 5-Todd Berzowski, 17.399 [19]; 14. 83-Roman Blank, 17.440 [14]; 15. 1X-Nate Gross, 17.524 [18]; 16. 21S-John Sidesky, 17.589 [6]; 17. 52W-Jack Wiroll, 17.617 [5]; 18. 64Z-Mike Zitzer, 17.628 [22]; 19. 87-Parker Derks, 17.644 [2]; 20. 52-Ernie Herlt, 17.651 [21]; 21. 28-Chuck Gilbertson Jr, 17.654 [15]; 22. 55-Keith Stich, 17.776 [17]; 23. 14-Benjamin Mccoy, 18.402 [16]

Hartmann closes book on final doubleheader road trip of 2023 IRA season with two top-15s

Austin Hartmann turned in two 15th place finishes in Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series A mains at Gondik Law Speedway in Superior, Wis. on Friday, Sept. 8 and Cedar Lake Speedway in New Richmond, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 9. – RC Custom Design photo

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) September 13, 2023 – Austin Hartmann and the members of the 87A Hartmann Racing made the long trek to Northern and Western Wisconsin to wrap up their final doubleheader weekend of the 2023 Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series season with a pair of 15th place A-main showings at the Northern Nationals at Gondik Law Speedway in Superior, Wis. on Friday, Sept. 8 and the 23rd annual Jerry Richert Memorial at Cedar Lake Speedway in New Richmond, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 9.

In his first appearance at the four-tenths mile high-banked Gondik Law Speedway clay oval, the Plymouth, Wis. driver turned in the 16th fastest qualifying lap in the 23-car field with a time of 16.687 seconds.

After lining up sixth in the first eight-lap IRA heat race, Hartmann was involved in an incident on lap 2, which resulted in his 87A car spinning to a stop in turn two. Following the restart, Hartmann was running seventh when the second yellow flag of the race was displayed on lap 6 after Dave Uttech spun in turn two.

The 2020 Midwest Sprint Car Association and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car Rookie of the Year Award winner then came home sixth in the race.

Hartmann then started 17th in the 25-lap Northern Nationals A main and endured a pair of caution periods to improve two spots on the way to a 15th place showing in a race, which was won by Bill Balog.

On Saturday, Sept. 9, the 87A Hartmann racing team headed to Cedar Lake Speedway for the Jerry Richert Memorial, which is one of the most prestigious annual events on the IRA schedule.

With 27 cars signed for the event, a pair of rain delays pushed the starting time back significantly and forced IRA officials to make the decision to forgo qualifying. As a result, heat race starting positions were set via draw and a passing points system was utilized in heat races to set the A main lineup at the three-eighths mile high-banked clay oval facility.

After drawing the fifth starting spot in the second eight-lap IRA heat race, Hartmann placed sixth to secure the 17th starting position in the 30-lap main event. The fourth year Winged Sprint Car competitor drove a smooth and consistent race on a fast and tacky track surface to move up two spots to end up with his second 15th place A-main showing of the weekend in a race won by Scotty Thiel.

The two 15th place results pushed Hartmann to a total of 12 top-15 A-main finishes for the 2023 season.

Hartmann presently sits ninth in the Bumper to Bumper IRA Sprint Car Series point standings, 16 points behind eighth place Bill Balog and one point ahead of 10th place Jack Vanderboom, with two events remaining on the 2023 IRA schedule.

On Saturday, Sept. 16, Hartmann and the 87A Hartmann Racing team will return to 141 Speedway in Francis Creek, Wis.

Along with the Bumper to Bumper IRA 410 Sprint Cars, the racing program will also feature Street Stocks, Wisconsin Legends Racing Dirt Series and IRA Lightning Sprints.

Pit and spectator gates open at 3 p.m. with racing set to get under way at 7 p.m.

After a weekend off, the 87A Hartmann Racing team will cap the 2023 IRA campaign with the sixth annual Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 30.

The special event will feature the final points races of the 2023 season for the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Cars, Akright Auto Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Cars, Wisconsin wingLESS Sprint Cars and IRA Lightning Sprints.

Pit gates open at 2 p.m. with spectator gates opening at 4:30 p.m. and packing/hot laps on tap at 4:45 p.m.

All IRA events during the 2023 season are streamed live on FloRacing.

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.

The sponsorship partners for the 2023 87A Hartmann Racing team include Kristine Hartmann of Pleasant View Realty, Shufflebotham Tree Service, Competition Specialists, Schmidt’s Landscaping, Feldmann Sales & Service, Holler n Hills, Steinpreis Trucking, KSI Supply Inc., Quasius Construction, SwitchGear Brewing LLC, TheD8Dispensary, AF Inc., Hopf Farms, RC Custom Design, Hepfner Racing Products, Berryman Racing Shocks and Maxim Chassis.

The 2023 87A Hartmann Racing team consists of Hunter Annis, Eric Bergschultz, Parker Annis, Karlee Hartmann, Andrew Shufflebotham and Kristine Hartmann.

87A Hartmann Racing Sponsor Showcase – Steinpreis Trucking

The Austin Hartmann – 87A Hartmann Racing team is pleased to have Steinpreis Trucking, located at N8445 Dairyland Drive in Sheboygan, Wis., on board as a sponsorship partner for the 2023 season.

To contact Steinpreis Trucking, call 920-627-2052.

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
2023 Remaining IRA Schedule

Saturday, Sept. 16 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA)
Saturday, Sept. 30 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)

Austin Hartmann 87A Hartmann Racing
2023 Season
By The Numbers

Total Events – 32
IRA Events – 26
World of Outlaws Events – 3
All Star Events – 4
A Main Victories – 0
B Main Victories – 0
Top Five A Main Finishes – 1
Top 10 A Main Finishes – 6
Top 15 A Main Finishes – 12
Top 20 A Main Finishes – 22
Heat Race Victories – 2
Dash Appearances – 6
Dash Victories – 0
Fast Qualifier Awards – 0