PENCIL WINS LABOR DAY 55 MAKE UP RACE
By Dave Harclerode
Photos By - Scott Welsh

BEDFORD, PA - Bedford Speedway's annual Labor Day 55 took a week to finish, but it was well worth the wait for Bedford's Jack Pencil. Rain showers wiped out last Sunday's show after the heat races, so the race was rescheduled for Friday night. Pencil was blistering fast, lapping the feild all the way up to the 12th place car. Scott Rhodes finished third, locking up the NAPA Super Late Model Point Championship easily over an absent Scott Haus. In Limited Late Model action, Tim Smith, Jr. dominated the field for the sixth time this year, putting an exclamation point on his track championship. In other action, Bob Jay won the Street Stock feature and the points title, and Greg Hainsey, who already locked up the Cruiser-Hobby Stock points title, dominated the field for the season ending race.

Jack Pencil came on like a rocketship after the fuel stop to dominate the 55 lap late model race. Pencil, last year's track champion, has had an up and down season. However, his dominance Friday evening proved to all that he's capapble of beating the best in the area. Pole sitter Tom Myers grabbed the lead at the drop of the green, and almost immediately a great race formed at the front. Tom Myers, Mike Hess, Scott Rhodes, Jack Pencil and Jason Covert ran in a tight pack, distancing themselves from the rest of the field. On lap 9, racing legend Gerald Chamberlain launched out over the turn one wall, bringing out the red flag. Chamberlain wasn't injured. When racing resumed, Myers held the point, and the 5 car battle at the front resumed. Meanwhile, 20th starting Gary Stuhler was working his way through the pack. At the lap 31 fuel stop, DJ Myers and Wayne Johnson were sent to the back of the pack for working on their cars under red flag conditions. When racing resumed, Jack Pencil didn't waste any time getting to the front. On lap 32, Pencil blew by Myers and checked out on the field. Lapped traffic helped Myers stay within striking distance, but Pencil was just too strong. At the line it was Pencil, Myers, Scott Rhodes, Gary Stuhler, and Mike Hess. Jason Covert was sixth, and Billy Wampler, Eric Zembower, Greg Fetters, and Mike Altobelli rounded out the top ten.

Heat races went to Pencil, Rhodes, Tom Myers, and Mike Hess. Gary Stuhler won the consi.

Tim Smith, Jr. won is sixth feature of the season in the Limited Late Models. The win helped Smith lock up the championship, a feat he accomplished easily this year. Smith started on the pole and dominated the race all the way to the checkered without any real threat from anyone. Last year's track champ Carl Billet came home 2nd, Kevin Weyandt 3rd, Robbie Black and Craig Perigo fourth and fifth. Sixth through tenth went to Matt Parks, John Bookwalter, Brad Houck, Shawn Claar, and Kirk Baker.

Heat winners were Billet, Weyandt, and Brian Duffy.

In the Street Stock division, Bob Jay, Daniel Cornman, and George Beckett all had a shot at winning the championship. Cornman led the race early, but Jay and Beckett worked their way around him. A nose to tail battle between the three ensued, and Jay held on for the win, and the championship. Beckett settled for second, Cornman third, and Troy Aikey and Kerry Molovich rounded out the top five.

Jay and Beckett won the heats.

Greg Hainsey won the Cruiser-Hobby feature easily over JR Guyer, Tom Warren, Jeff Weyandt, and Mike Duck.

Heats went to Duck, Warren, and Chuck Weyant.

NAPA SUPER LATE MODELS - 39 cars

FEATURE - 55 laps (name, car #): JACK PENCIL 14, Tom Myers 43a, Scott Rhodes 83R, Gary Stuhler 90, Mike Hess 39x, Jason Covert M15, Billy Wampler 1w, Eric Zembower 49, Greg Fetters 39, Mike Altobelli 80, Ron Delano, Jr. 0, Tony Adams 111 (-1), Bo Feathers 00 (-1), Chris Shuey 21 (-1), Todd Ritchey 8 (-1), Andy Martz M1 (-1), DJ Myers 70j (-1), Jeff Rine 2j (DNF), Nick Dickson 17x (-3), Wayne Johnson 17 (DNF), Andy Fries 82 (DNF), Ray Dallape 105 (DNF), Gerald Chamberlain 37 (DNF), Dave Hoover 45 (DNF), Dave Kepner 12k (DNF), Dan Stone 21D (DNF), Chris Harr 88 (DNF)

HEAT 1: Pencil, Shuey, Dickson
HEAT 2: Rhodes, Feathers, Hoover
HEAT 3: Tom Myers, DJ Myers, Fries
HEAT 4: Hess, Adams, Johnson

CONSI: Gary Stuhler, Todd Ritchey, Eric Zembower

DNQ: Tim Gray, Scott Flickinger, Jeff Miller, Jeff Smith, Mike Lupfer, Chris Rhodes, Harold Ranck, Mike Atherton, Lynn Geisler, Lauden Seigfried, Travis Dillman, Dion LaSalle

LIMITED LATE MODELS - 22 cars

FEATURE (name, car #): TIM SMITH, JR. 39, Carl Billet 2m, Kevin Weyandt 88, Robbie Black 01, Craig Perigo 1a, Matt Parks 15, John Bookwalter 1, Brad Houck 21, Shawn Claar 20, Kirk Baker 20B, Steve Bailor 25s, Derek Byler 5*, Justin Kann 66 (DNF), Terry Kline 25k (DNF), Brad Kling 11 (DNF), Ron Beam, Sr. 41 (DNF), Tim Cogan 85 (DNF), Brian Duffy 38 (DNF), Rance Garlock 19 (DQ), Donnie Hedge 80 (DNS), Darryl Burkholder 2 (DNS), Scott Grubb 55x (DNS)

HEAT 1: Billet, Black, Parks
HEAT 2: Weyandt, Kling, Perigo
HEAT 3: Duffy, Kann, Smith, Jr.

STREET STOCKS - 11 cars

FEATURE (name, car #): BOB JAY 4j, George Beckett 58, Daniel Cornman 3, Troy Aikey 11w, Kerry Molovich 63, Terry Norris 73, Tim Wyles 98, Terry Wyles 10, Travis Calhoun 36 (DNF), Mike Stiffler 17s (DNF), John Whitfield 52 (DNF)

HEAT 1: Jay, Aikey, Molovich
HEAT 2: Beckett, Cornman, Whitfield

CRUISER-HOBBY STOCKS - 29 cars

FEATURE: GREG HAINSEY, JR Guyer, Tom Warren, Jeff Weyandt, Mike Duck, Terry Wagner, Kevin Johnson, Matt Mellott, Joe DeArmitt, Mike Seigele, Brian Weyandt, Jr., Ray Shepherd, Chuck Weyant, Reed Stickle, Richie LaSalle, Roger Hoagland, Bill Fox, Howie Bussard (DQ), Brad Karns (DNS), Jerry Robinson (DNS), Jonathan Martin (DNS), Brandon LaSalle (DNS)

HEAT 1: Duck, Hainsey, Brian Weyandt, Jr.
HEAT 2: Warren, Bussard, Guyer
HEAT 3: Chuck Weyant, Jeff Weyandt, Siegele

HAUS PICKS UP WIN; GERALD CHAMBERLAIN BEHIND THE WHEEL AGAIN
By Dave Harclerode

BEDFORD, PA - After a short rain delay, fans enjoyed a super fast race track and action that lasted all night at the Bedford Speedway Friday night. In the NAPA Super Late Model division, Scott Haus won his second feature event of the season in an action packed race that sent one driver to the hospital. Tim Smith, Jr. continued his dominance in the Limited Late Models, winning his 5th feature of the season in a race that saw another driver take a trip to the hospital. Daniel Cornman won the Street Stock event, and Brian Weyandt, Jr., son of retired Semi-Late super star Brian Weyandt, won his first ever in the Cruiser-Hobby Stocks. Without a doubt, the highlight of the evening was the return of Gerald Chamberlain.

Gerald Chamberlain, who doesn't need an introduction, surprised everyone when he decided to crawl into the Chuck LaSalle owned # 37 Super Late Model Friday evening. LaSalle was injured at home a few weeks ago, and since then he has filled his driving seat with two incredible racing legends. First it was dirt/asphalt late model super star Charlie Cragan, and Friday night it was Gerald. Chamberlain finished 6th in his heat, and completed 20 laps in the feature before dropping out with mechanical problems. Gerald appeared to enjoy racing again, as he was all smiles after the warm up session. Hopefully, he'll get another opportunity to race again on Sunday, August 31st for Bedford's season ending Labor Day 55.

Scott Haus charged from the seventh position to pick up the win in the NAPA Super Late Models. Pole sitter Ron Delano, Jr. took off at the drop of the green, and pulled out to a several car length lead over point leader Scott Rhodes. The field was tightened up after a lap 6 caution, and the following restart saw several race cars get tore up severely. Coming out of turn 2, Delano suffered a flat tire, causing the entire field to dart and dodge the quickly slowing Delano. By the time the field got to turn 3, eight cars were piled up, some on top of other cars. This crash ended the night for Dave Kepner, Mike Altobelli, Delano, Bo Feathers, Dave Groves, Mike Shoemaker, and Rodney Sweitzer. Sweitzer suffered a concussion, and a wrist that was broken in 5 places. Wayne Johnson was also involved in the accident, but was able to continue with severe cosmetic damage. Johnson had a good view of Mike Shoemaker's drive shaft in the crash, because Shoemaker's car was sitting on the roof of Johnson's car. On the restart, Haus grabbed the lead and kept a blistering pace using the high line. Tenth starting Jack Pencil was in third, and battled second place Scott Rhodes for many laps. Pencil snagged second half way through the race, and set his sights on Haus. Pencil was able to pester Haus a few times, but Haus prevailed, winning by 7 car lengths. Pencil settled for second, Rhodes third, Nick Dickson fourth, and Mike Hess fifth. Rounding out the top ten was Dave Hoover, Rick Singleton, Eric Zembower, Jason Covert, and Billy Wampler.

Heats went to Groves, Delano, and Feathers.

Tim Smith, Jr. held off a hard charging Rance Garlock to win the Limited Late Model Feature. On lap one, Jim Leidy spun out between turns 3 and 4, collecting Colby Frye, John Hedge, Robbie Black, and Scotty Grubb. Although hard contact was at a minimum, John Hedge's hand jammed in the steering wheel, and put him in severe pain. Hedge was taken to the hospital with a probable broken thumb or wrist. On the restart, it was all Smith. At the half way point, Smith had a huge lead, but Rance Garlock came on like a rocket ship late in the race. At the checkered, it was Smith by a mere 3 car lengths. Kevin Weyandt came in third, followed by Matt Parks and Mike Altobelli, Jr. Rounding out the top ten was Robbie Black, Brian Duffy, Craig Perigo, Scott Grubb, and Colby Frye.

Heats went to Garlock and Weyandt.

In the Street Stock division, Daniel Cornman earned his fifth win of the season. George Beckett hounded Cornman the entire race, but had to settle for second. Point leader Bob Jay finished third, followed by John Whitfield and Tim Wyles.

Beckett and Jay won the preliminary heat races.

Brian Weyandt, Jr. scored his first ever victory in the Cruiser-Hobby Stock division. Weyandt held off several competitors who knocked at the door, and he withstood several late race cautions to take the win. Stanley Price, Reed Stickle, Jerry Robinson, and Mike Siegele rounded out the top five.

Heats went to Jeff Weyandt, and Stanley Price.

Cheryl Howsare won the powder puff race, completely dominating the 12 car field.

Next Sunday, August 31st is the annual Labor Day 55 for the NAPA Late Models. A 55 lap, increased purse event that will decide who Bedford's point champion will be this year. All four divisions will be in action, and the rain date is Monday, September 1st.

NAPA SUPER LATE MODELS - 27 cars

FEATURE (name, car #): SCOTT HAUS 33, Jack Pencil 14, Scott Rhodes 83R, Nick Dickson 17x, Mike Hess 39x, Dave Hoover 45, Rick Singleton 99, Eric Zembower 49, Jason Covert M15, Billy Wampler 1w, Chuck Clise 5, Greg Fetters 39, Ray Dallape 105, Andy Martz M1, Scott Lupfer 77, Chad McClellan 119, Dion LaSalle 38 (DNF), Gerald Chamberlain 37 (DNF), Wayne Johnson 17 (DNF), Dave Kepner 12k (DNF), Mike Altobelli 80 (DNF), Ron Delano, Jr. 0 (DNF), Bo Feathers 00 (DNF), Dave Groves 92 (DNF), Mike Shoemaker 55 (DNF), Rodney Sweitzer 84 (DNF), Chris Rhodes 9 (DNF)

HEAT 1: Groves, Haus, Altobelli
HEAT 2: Delano, Jr., Johnson, Chris Rhodes
HEAT 3: Feathers, Scott Rhodes, Shoemaker

LIMITED LATE MODELS - 15 cars

FEATURE (name, car #): TIM SMITH, JR. 39, Rance Garlock 19, Kevin Weyandt 88, Matt Parks 15, Mike Altobelli, Jr. 79, Robbie Black 01, Brian Duffy 38, Craig Perigo 1a, Scott Grubb 55x, Colby Frye F1 (DNF), Jim Leidy 11L (DNF), Steve Bard 72 (DNF), John Hedge 80 (DNF), Steve Bailor 25s (DQ)

HEAT 1: Garlock, Parks, Perigo
HEAT 2: Weyandt, Smith, Jr., Duffy

STREET STOCKS - 12 cars

FEATURE (name, car #): DANIEL CORNMAN 3, George Beckett 58, Bob Jay 4J, John Whitfield 52, Tim Wyles 98, Kerry Molovich 63, Terry Norris 73, Mike Stiffler 17s, Terry Wyles 10, Travis Calhoun 36, Roger Shaffer 36s (DNF), Troy Aikey 11w (DNF)

HEAT 1: Beckett, Stiffler, Aikey
HEAT 2: Jay, Molovich, Cornman

CRUISER-HOBBY STOCKS - 23 cars

FEATURE (name, car #): BRIAN WEYANDT, JR. 88jr, Stanley Price 48, Reed Stickle RV85, Jerry Robinson 711, Mike Seigele 007, Joe Moyer 17, Ken Claar KC2, Greg Hainsey 31, Terry Wagner 38, Joe DeArmitt 121, Mike Duck 73, Jeff Weyandt 88, Chuck Weyant 88c, Ray Shepherd 9, Matt Mellott 6m, Brandon LaSalle 37, James Best 24, Roger Hoagland 13, Howie Bussard 15, Kevin Johnson 97, Preston Imler 54, Mark Shope 53, Kevin Hunsicker 19k

HEAT 1: Jeff Weyandt, Shepherd, Hainsey
HEAT 2: Price, DeArmitt, Duck

POWDER PUFF: Cheryl Howsare 711, Teresa Kepner 28, Brandie Mills 73, Sheila Knupp 17, Tonya Deem 31, Edie Shepherd 9T, Jodie Zembower 21, Jackie Black 88JR, Peg Thomas 97, Michelle Mellott 6m

RHODES GETS SEVENTH WIN; PERIGO PICKS UP FIRST EVER IN LIMITEDS
By Dave Harclerode

BEDFORD, PA - The very first race at Bedford Speedway was 67 years ago, during fair week. Some of the greatest of all time have competed and won at fair races at the speedway, including several Indy 500 winners. Friday night, Scott Rhodes added his name to the historical list of fair race winners. This was Scott's seventh win of the season, and probably his most important one to date. Not just because he won the coveted fair race championship, but because this win put him in the NAPA Super Late Model point lead. The Bedford fans were very lucky to see any racing at all. Scattered rain showers literally hit everywhere in Bedford all day, except for at the speedway. Track officials were able to get 3 out of 4 features in until the rain finally hit the track. Stoystown's Craig Perigo picked up his first career win at Bedford Speedway in the Limited Late Models, and Bob Jay extended his point lead by winning the feature event in the Street Stocks. The Cruiser-Hobby Stock feature was postponed until next week due to a severe rain shower hitting the area just as they took the speedway.

The NAPA Super Late Model feature was an exciting race. A first lap crash on the backstretch, and a second lap crash in turn three involving 8 cars hurt a lot of competitor's chances of winning early. Dave Groves, Dave Kepner, Mike Altobelli, Dave Hoover, and Wayne Johnson's night all ended early from damage suffered in these accidents. Pole sitter Jack Pencil looked like the man to beat early in the race. Jack was fast, and pulled out to an 8 car length lead. It seemed as if Pencil had it in the bag, but on the 14th lap, everything went wrong for the leader. As Jack entered turn 3, a used up right rear just wouldn't stick, and Pencil looped his car, bringing out the yellow and handing the lead to seventh starting Jason Covert. A hard charging Scott Rhodes was knocking on Covert's door on the restart, and it was only a lap or two until Rhodes blew by on the outside. Rhodes won the race easily from his eighth starting spot. With two laps to go, Nick Dickson went pitside with electrical problems while running third. At the line, it was Rhodes, Covert, 13th starting Dan Stone in third, 19th starting Rodney Sweitzer in fourth, and 16th starter Rick Singleton in fifth. Sixth through tenth went to Eric Zembower, Scott Haus, Billy Wampler, Jack Pencil, and Mike Hess.

Heat winners were Altobelli, Dickson, and Rhodes.

In Limited Late Model action, Craig Perigo drove a mistake free race, which earned him his first win at Bedford Speedway. Perigo grabbed the lead on the first lap from pole sitter Robbie Black, and never looked back. Black kept it interesting, making several attempts for the lead during the first half of the race. But by the half way point, Rance Garlock advanced to the second position. With two to go, a big turn 4 crash bunched the field up for the final time. Garlock tried every move in the book, but Perigo's Ford was just too strong. Perigo won by two car lengths, with Garlock settling for second, Brian Duffy taking third, Robbie Black fourth, and Tim Smith, Jr. fifth. Rounding out the top ten were Mike Altobelli, Jr., John Hedge, Kevin Weyandt, Matt Parks, and Derek Byler.

Preliminary heat race winners were Garlock and Tim Smith, Jr.

Bob Jay picked up his fourth win of the season in the Street Stock division. The race went smoothly, with only one caution on lap one for George Beckett. Jay had a comfortable lead until a lap car slowed him up with two to go. Second place finisher Daniel Cornman reeled Jay in, and the battle was on. For two laps Jay and Cornman ran bumper to bumper, with Jay taking the win at the checkered. Troy Aikey took home third, with George Beckett and John Whitfield rounding out the top 5.

Heats went to Cornman and Beckett.

The Cruiser-Hobby Stock feature was rained out, and will be ran next week (along with their regular scheduled show).

There will be no Super Late Models racing next week. The 305 Sprint cars will be invading town, along with Limited Late Models, Cruiser-Hobby Stocks, and the Street Stocks running the Walt Aikey Memorial Street Stock Invitational Race.

NAPA SUPER LATE MODELS - 30 cars

FEATURE (name, car #): SCOTT RHODES 83R, Jason Covert M15, Dan Stone 21D, Rodney Sweitzer 84, Rick Singleton 99, Eric Zembower 49, Scott Haus 33, Billy Wampler 1W, Jack Pencil 14, Mike Hess 39x, Charlie Cragan 37, Ron Delano, Jr., 0, Greg Fetters 39, Matt Sponaugle 8, Mike Shoemaker 55, Nick Dickson 17x (DNF), Doug Ishler 03 (DNF), Andy Fries 82 (DNF), Andy Martz M1 (DNF), Brad Houck 46 (DNF), Paul Cornell 6 (DNF), Wayne Johnson 17 (DNF), Dave Hoover 45 (DNF), Mike Altobelli 80 (DNF), Dave Kepner 12k (DNF), Dave Groves 92 (DNF), Dion LaSalle 38 (DNS), DJ Troutman 7j (DNS), Devin Fries 12 (DNS)

HEAT 1: Altobelli, Kepner, Hoover
HEAT 2: Dickson, Hess, Pencil
HEAT 3: Rhodes, Fries, Covert

LIMITED LATE MODELS - 22 cars

FEATURE (name, car #): CRAIG PERIGO 1a, Rance Garlock 19, Brian Duffy 38, Robbie Black 01, Tim Smith, Jr. 39, Mike Altobelli, Jr. 79, John Hedge 80, Kevin Weyandt 88, Matt Parks 15, Derek Byler 5*, Donnie Hedge 8E, Steve Bailor 25s, Tyler Armstrong 84, Scott Grubb 55x, Jim Leidy 11L, Rusty Sites 40 (DNF), Tim Fetter 8 (DNF), Shawn Claar 20 (DNF), Eric Glotfelty 28 (DNF), Clyde Monahan 19m (DNF), Chris Wolfe 69w (DNF), Colby Frye F1 (DNS)

HEAT 1: Garlock, Perigo, Black
HEAT 2: Smith, Jr., Sites, Leidy

STREET STOCKS - 14 cars

FEATURE (name, car #): BOB JAY 4J, Daniel Cornman 3, Troy Aikey 11w, George Beckett 58, John Whitfield 52, Tim Wyles 98, Terry Norris 73, Terry Wyles 10, Travis Calhoun 36, Lewis Hale 228 (DNF), JR Bowers 76 (DNF), Roger Shaffer 36s (DNF), Kerry Molovich 63 (DNF), Greg Cornell 3J (DNS)

HEAT 1: Cornman, Tim Wyles, Calhoun
HEAT 2: Beckett, Jay, Molovich

RHODES CLAIMS SIXTH WIN
By Dave Harclerode

BEDFORD, PA - It was another great evening of racing Friday at Bedford Speedway. It was Blackburn Russell night, featuring the Limited Late Model Summer Classic, a 30 lap increased purse race. Tim Smith, Jr. won the Limited special race, extending his point lead in the division. In the NAPA Super Late Models, Scott Rhodes returned to the winner's circle for the sixth time this year, and Daniel Cornman picked up his fourth win of the season. In the Cruiser-Hobby Stocks, point leader Greg Hainsey took home the checkered for the second time this season.

Rookie Late Model sensation Nick Dickson grabbed the lead on the first lap in the NAPA Super Late Model feature, and led until lap 9 when Scott Rhodes made the pass for the lead. Rhodes started in the 9th position, and worked his way to the front without wasting any time. After passing Dickson for the first position, Rhodes pulled out to a commanding lead. The field was bunched back up with 3 laps to go when Shane Beegle's ride sputtered to a stop, but Rhodes still won easily. Dickson hung on for a strong second place finish, and Mike Hess came all the way from 14th to take home third place. Point leader Scott Haus finished fourth, and Bedford's Eric Zembower finished fifth. Woodbury, Pa's Dave Hoover had a great run, nailing down the sixth spot, with Dave Kepner, Dave Groves, Jason Covert, and Mike Shoemaker rounding out the top ten. Rhodes' win puts him 10 points behind current leader Scott Haus, with only 3 point races remaining. Long time Bedford racer Dion LaSalle was back behind the wheel Friday night after missing almost all of the season from injuries suffered at work. Dion's brother Chuck also returned to the cockpit after missing last week's action due to a leg injury he suffered at home.

Heat race winners were Haus, Rhodes, and Shoemaker.

The 30 lap Limited Late Model special was the highlight of the evening. Third starting Brad Houck took the lead early, and for the first 10 laps Houck and fifth starting Tim Smith, Jr. battled hard. On lap 11, Smith, Jr. took the lead from Houck, and on the next lap Colby Frye took second from Houck. For the next couple laps Smith, Jr. and Frye ran neck and neck, but by the time lap 20 came around Smith, Jr. had a 5 car length lead. With 5 to go, Frye used the high line around the speedway and started to reel in the leader. Unfortunately for Frye, he got into turn 3 a little too deep with 2 laps to go. He made hard contact with wall, ending his great run. On the restart, Smith, Jr. took off and won easily. Houck and Rance Garlock crossed the line side by side, with Garlock taking second by mere inches. Pole sitter Steve Bailor finished fourth, with Darryl Burkholder taking fifth. Sixth through tenth went to Matt Parks, Brian Duffy, Kevin Weyandt, John Bookwalter, and Mike Altobelli, Jr.

Burkholder and Houck won the preliminary heats.

The Street Stock race was the division's typical weekly thrill show. Side by side and nose to tail, the Street Stocks keep the fans on their feet. Only one caution slowed the action. A lap 9 wreck ended the night for Travis Calhoun and Mike Stiffler. Last week's winner Troy Aikey led most of the race, but with 2 to go a hard charging Daniel Cornman worked his way by Aikey after running side by side for several laps. With one to go, Tim Wyles slipped by Aikey for second. At the line it was Cornman, Wyles, Aikey, Bob Jay, and Kerry Molovich. Sixth through tenth were John Whitfield, George Beckett, Dave Brown, Terry Norris, and Terry Wyles.

Heats went to Cornman and Jay.

In the wild and crazy Cruiser-Hobby Stock division, point leader Greg Hainsey earned his second win of the season. Twelfth starting Brian Weyandt, Jr. came all the way up for a solid second place finish. Brian is the son of former Semi-Late super star Brian Weyandt, who holds the all-time feature wins record in all divisions combined at Bedford Speedway. Lincoln Ritchey finished third, with Jerry Robinson and Kevin Johnson finishing fourth and fifth.

Preliminary heat races went to Shawn Wyles, Robinson, and Hainsey.

NAPA SUPER LATE MODELS

FEATURE (name, car #): Scott Rhodes 83R, Nick Dickson 17x, Mike Hess
39m, Scott Haus 33, Eric Zembower 49, Dave Hoover 45, Dave Kepner 12k,
Dave Groves 92, Jason Covert m15, Mike Shoemaker 55, Rodney Sweitzer 84,
Greg Fetters 39, Rick Singleton 99, Chuck LaSalle 37, Ron Delano, Jr. 0,
Dion LaSalle 38, Wayne Johnson 17 (DNF), Shane Beegle 15 (DNF), Harold
Ranck 32 (DNF), Mike Altobelli 80 (DNF), Andy Martz M1 (DNF), Billy
Wampler 1w (DNS)

HEAT 1: Haus, Dickson, Altobelli
HEAT 2: Rhodes, Wampler, Kepner
HEAT 3: Shoemaker, Groves, Hoover

LIMITED LATE MODELS

FEATURE - 30 LAPS (name, car #): Tim Smith, Jr. 39, Rance Garlock 19,
Brad Houck 21, Steve Bailor 25s, Darryl Burkholder 2, Matt Parks 15,
Brian Duffy 38, Kevin Weyandt 88, John Bookwalter 1, Mike Altobelli, Jr.
79, Shawn Claar 20, Robbie Black 01, Donnie Hedge 8E, Brian Rebein 55,
Colby Frye F1 (DNF), Jim Leidy 11L, Craig Perigo 1a (DNS), John Hedge 80
(DNS)

HEAT 1: Burkholder, Smith, Jr., Parks
HEAT 2: Houck, Bookwalter, Bailor

STREET STOCKS

FEATURE (name, car #): Daniel Cornman 3, Tim Wyles 98, Troy Aikey 11w,
Bob Jay 4J, Kerry Molovich 63, John Whitfield 52, George Beckett 58,
Dave Brown 110, Terry Norris 73, Terry Wyles 10, Mike Stiffler 17s
(DNF), Travis Calhoun 36 (DNF), Mike Harvey 60 (DNF)

HEAT 1: Cornman, Molovich, Tim Wyles
HEAT 2: Jay, Aikey, Whitfield

CRUISER-HOBBY STOCKS

FEATURE: Greg Hainsey, Brian Weyandt, Jr., Lincoln Ritchey, Jerry
Robinson, Kevin Johnson, Mike Duck, Chuck Weyant, JR Guyer, James Best,
Joe DeArmitt, Daren Desch, Roger Hoagland, Roger Shaffer, Ken Claar,
Jr., Ray Shephard, Anthony Foor, Rick Potter, Brad Karns, Mike Seigele,
Mike Mathews, Shawn Wyles, Reed Stickle, Ruggie Guyer, Howie Bussard,
Lance Mellott, Bill Replogle, Jeff Weyandt (DNS)

NICK DICKSON GETS CAREER FIRST
By Dave Harclerode

BEDFORD, PA - Mother nature may have slowed things up and cooled it down, but the racing was fast and hot Friday night at the Bedford Speedway. It was 70's night, and the crowd was treated to some excellent racing before the legends of the 1970 era strapped into some Late Models and took their turn. A small rain storm delayed the evening, but the super fast surface that lasted all evening was worth the wait. In the NAPA Super Late Models, Nick Dickson picked up his first career victory in any division. In Limited Late Model action, Rance Garlock snagged his second victory in a row. It was Troy Aikey in the Street Stocks, and Mike Duck in the Crusier-Hobby Stock division.

The NAPA Late Model feature was as good as it gets. The action started on the second lap, when the #0 car of Ron Delano, Jr. lost the handle in turn three. As the field scrambled to miss the spinning Delano, multi-feature winner Scott Rhodes was left with nowhere to go. Rhodes made heavy contact with Delano, sending Rhodes' car several feet into the air. Rhodes was able to continue, but any hopes of winning the race vanished for Rhodes after the accident. When racing action resumed, it turned out to be a classic showdown between the superstar veteran traveler Scott Haus, and local hero turned MACS Champ Jack Pencil. Haus and Pencil battled lap after lap, with Haus consistently retaining the lead. But with two laps to go, Pencil finally got enough momentum to shoot under Haus going into turn 4. Haus returned the favor by sliding back under Pencil coming out of four. The pair ran side by side down the front stretch, and made contact going into turn one. Haus' car hit the turn one wall with tremendous force, destroying his race car. Thankfully, Scott was uninjured in the accident. Pencil was able to continue, but had to start at the tail of the field, ending his hopes for a victory. With two to go, Nick Dickson (son of Port Royal's all-time feature winner Ken Dickson) assumed the lead and never looked back, taking his first ever career feature win. Rick Singleton finished second. This was Rick's first race at Bedford since he was injured in a crash at the speedway on June 6th. Mike Shoemaker finished third, Eric Zembower fourth, and Wayne Johnson fifth. Rounding out the top ten were Greg Fetters, Dave Hoover, Billy Wampler, Rodney Sweitzer, and Shane Beegle. The feature race was red flagged twice. Once for the Haus and Pencil accident, and once on lap 17 for Scott LeBarron. LeBarron hit the turn 3 pit entrance wall hard, momentarily rendering him unconscious. Scott was checked out and cleared by the infield ambulance crew.

Heat winners were Johnson, Pencil, and Singleton.

In Limited Late Model action, Rance Garlock won his second feature in a row at the speedway. Eleventh starting Tim Smith, Jr. made his way to second using the high side of the speedway, but wasn't able to overtake Garlock. Mike Altobelli, Jr. came home third, Colby Frye, fourth, and Brian Weyandt fifth. Sixth through tenth went to John Bookwalter, Craig Perigo, Robbie Black, Steve Bailor, and Matt Parks.

Black and Frye won the preliminary races.

Troy Aikey celebrated an emotional win Friday night in the Street Stock division. It was Troy's first win since his father passed away last year, and the win was very meaningful to the team. The 2002 track champion George Beckett led the first 11 laps until mechanical problems forced him pit side. Aikey assumed the lead and held back several attempts from second place finishing Daniel Cornman. Current point leader Bob Jay finished third, with John Whitfield and Kerry Molovich rounding out the top five.

Heat winners were Jay and Molovich.

In Cruiser-Hobby Stock action, Mike Duck picked up his second win of the season over Jeff Weyandt, Brian Weyandt, Jr., Jerry Robinson, and Greg Hainsey.

Heats went to Mike Siegele, Stanley Price, and Duck.

The special 70's night race topped off the evening. Fans were treated to a ten lap match race consisting of drivers who raced the Bedford Speedway regularly in the seventies. They were lined up with the drivers who have raced most recently starting in the back. The finishing order was Kevin Smith, driving Eric Zembower's late model, Charlie Cragan, driving Chuck LaSalle's late model, Johnny Grum, driving Robbie Black's limited late model, Turk Burket, driving Shane Beegle's late model, Ken Imler, Sr., driving Dave Hoover's late model, Carmen Perigo, Sr., driving his son Craig's limited late model, and Gary Martz, driving his son Andy's late model.

Charlie Cragan raced Chuck LaSalle's late model the entire evening, finishing 12th in the feature event. LaSalle injured his leg earlier this week and will be out for the rest of the season. There's a possibility that Cragan may finish out the year at Bedford in LaSalle's car.

Next week is Blackburn Russell night, a four division show with the Limited Late Models running a "Limited Late Model Special" consisting of increased laps and purse. The speedway will be off on Friday August 1st, but will be back in action on August 8th for the Great Bedford Fair Stock Car Championship.

NAPA SUPER LATE MODELS

FEATURE (name, car #): NICK DICKSON 17x, Rick Singleton 99, Mike Shoemaker 55, Eric Zembower 49, Wayne Johnson 17, Greg Fetters 39, Dave Hoover 45, Billy Wampler 1w, Rodney Sweitzer 84, Shane Beegle 15, Scott Rhodes 83R, Charlie Cragan 37, Jack Pencil 14, Andy Martz M1, Scott Haus 33 (DNF), Jason Covert 15m (DNF), Doug Ishler 03 (DNF), Scott LeBarron 8L (DNF), Dave Kepner 12k (DNF), Ron Delano, Jr. 0 (DNF)

HEAT 1: Johnson, Delano, Jr., Dickson
HEAT 2: Pencil, Shoemaker, LeBarron
HEAT 3: Singleton, Haus, Covert

LIMITED LATE MODELS

FEATURE: Rance Garlock, Tim Smith, Jr., Mike Altobelli, Jr., Colby Frye, Kevin Weyandt, John Bookwalter, Craig Perigo, Robbie Black, Steve Bailor, Matt Parks, John Hedge, Shawn Claar, Donnie Hedge, Jim Leidy (DNF), Doug Burkholder (DNF), Brian Duffy (DNS)

HEAT 1: Black, Weyandt, Bookwalter
HEAT 2: Frye, Burkholder, Perigo

STREET STOCKS

FEATURE: Troy Aikey, Daniel Cornman, Bob Jay, John Whitfield, Kerry Molovich, Tim Wyles, Mike Stiffler, Travis Calhoun, Terry Wyles, Terry Norris, George Beckett (DNF)

HEAT 1: Jay, Beckett, Cornman
HEAT 2: Molovich, Norris, Aikey

CRUISER-HOBBY STOCKS

FEATURE: Mike Duck, Jeff Weyandt, Brian Weyandt, Jr., Jerry Robinson, Greg Hainsey, James Best, Rick Potter, Lincoln Ritchey, Kevin Johnson, Chuck Weyant, JR Guyer, Howie Bussard, Roger Shaffer, Matt Mellott, Roger Hoagland, Mike Mathews, Anthony Foor, Shawn Wyles, Jonathan Martin, Brad Karns, Mark Shope, Mike Siegele, Ruggie Guyer, Daren Desch, Bill Replogle, Ray Shephard, Terry Wagner, Stanley Price, Joe DeArmitt, Ken Claar, Jr.

STARS OF THE SEVENTIES WILL RACE FRIDAY NIGHT
By Dave Harclerode

Many local fans consider the seventies as the heyday of racing in
Bedford County. The drivers appearing tonight made a name for
themselves during that time, not only in Bedford, but at many other
regional speedways.

Former drivers expected to appear are Charlie Cragan, Turk Burket, Gary
Martz, Kevin Smith, Carmen Perigo, Sr., Gerald Chamberlain, Ken Imler,
Sr., Johnny Grum and others.

Charlie Cragan began his racing career in 1974, but his racing
involvement started in the sixties. John Cragan (Charlie's father)
raced and won at the South Penn speedway in Everett, and other area
tracks. One of John's highlights was winning the prestigious Winchester
200 in 1965. Charlie's first race car in '74 was a semi-late co-owned
by John Fabian, who currently is a fabricator for a race team on the
NASCAR circuit. When Charlie moved up to the Late Model division, he
teamed up with car owner Jim Cornell. Charlie and Jim enjoyed several
very successful years together. The late Walt Aikey (father of current
Street Stock driver Troy) was a crew member on the Cragan/Cornell team,
along with others. The Cragan/Cornell team's biggest win was the '79
NDRA race at Motordrome Speedway. The NDRA was the stepping stone to
today's Renegade and Extreme series. Charlie lapped the entire field,
which was full of some of the best racers of the era. Cornell left the
team in the early 80's, and in 1983 Cragan joined the # 42 Scanlan team.
Charlie left dirt track racing in 1986, with 50 career wins to his
credit. In 1987, Cragan and the Scanlan team started racing asphalt.
The team had tremendous success, and Charlie became a NASCAR Regional
Champion.

Bedford's Gary Martz had a very successful career as a chassis builder
and driver. Gary has won numerous feature events throughout the region.
Turk Burket, driver of the Benny Weyandt # 88, was considered one of
the best on the East Coast throughout the seventies. All of the drivers
competing tonight had very successful racing careers, and fans of all
ages will speak of them for years to come.

Next week at the speedway is Blackburn Russell Night. All four
divisions will be competing, with the Limited Late Models running the
Limited Late Model Special. Kids bike races will also be held, with
trophies sponsored by Lankey's Sleep Zone and Best Way Pizza. There
will be no racing on Friday, August 1st, but the Speedway will be back
in action on August 8th for the Great Bedford Fair Stock Car Championship.

SCOTT RHODES WINS AGAIN AT BEDFORD
By Dave Harclerode

BEDFORD, PA - A great racing surface and another beautiful summer evening provided fans with excellent racing Friday at Bedford Speedway. Scott Rhodes continued his dominance of the NAPA Late Models by picking up his 5th win of the season at the 5/8 mile oval. Rance Garlock led flag to flag in the Limited Late Model feature, picking up his first win of the season. In the Street Stock division it was Bob Jay taking home the victory, and Stanley Price in the Cruiser-Hobby Stocks.

Up until this week, all of Scott Rhodes' wins have come from deep in the pack. Friday night, Scott found himself starting in the 4th spot, making his drive to the front a little easier. It took awhile to get the race started, but once it did it didn't take long for Rhodes to take the point. On the first attempt to start the race a big crash erupted right in front of the flag stand, ending the night for Andy Martz, Devin Freise, and Dave Hoover. Andy Fries and Wayne Johnson suffered severe damage, but were able to continue after a visit to the pit area. Two more attempts at starting double file were negated by accidents, so track officials decided to start the field single file. Overall, it took 4 attempts to get a lap in the books. Rhodes snagged the point early in the race, and pulled to a 1/2 lap lead over the field. With 2 laps to go, the caution flag flew for the first time since trying to start the race. With the field bunched back up, Rhodes still won easily over Greg Fetters and Dave Kepner. A great two lap battle for fourth saw Scott Haus, DJ Myers and Dave Groves 3 wide at the finish line. Haus edged out the others for fourth, with Groves taking 5th and Myers getting 6th. Seventh through tenth went to Jack Pencil, Rodney Sweitzer, Nick Dickson, and Billy Wampler.

Heat winners were Myers, Wayne Johnson, and Mike Shoemaker.

In Limited Late Model action, Rance Garlock started on the pole and never looked back. Garlock immediately pulled to a 5 car length lead as Craig Perigo and Darryl Burkholder battled hard for the second spot. The pair ran side by side for the first 10 laps until Burkholder started to gradually fade off. A caution on lap 13 re-grouped the field, but Garlock was too much as he jumped back out to a 5 car length lead. A hard charging Tim Smith, Jr. used the high side of the speedway to come from fifth to second, Perigo ended up third, Mike Altobelli, Jr. fourth and John Bookwalter came from the eleventh starting spot to take fifth. Burkholder slid back to sixth at the finish, and John Hedge, Brian Duffy, Bill Henney and Donnie Hedge rounded out the top ten.

Tim Smith, Jr. and Brian Duffy won the preliminaries.

Pole sitter Troy Aikey led the first 12 laps in the Street Stock feature, but retired to the pits with mechanical problems during a caution lap for John Whitfield. Kerry Molovich inherited the lead with Bob Jay pressuring heavily. Jay took the lead with 4 to go, and held on for the win over Molovich, Tim Wyles, Daniel Cornman, and Terry Norris. Sixth through tenth went to Whitfield, Travis Calhoun, Bill Kennell, Aikey, and Mike Stiffler.

Heat winners were Aikey and Molovich.

The Cruiser-Hobby Feature was a wild one, with Stanley Price getting his second win of the season. Greg Hainsey, Jeff Weyandt, Shawn Wyles, and Bill Replogle rounded out the top 5.

Heats went to Brian Weyandt, Jr., Mike Duck and Shawn Wyles.

Next Friday at the Speedway will be 1970's night. A regular 4 division show consisting of NAPA Late Models, Limited Lates, Street Stocks and Cruiser-Hobby Stocks will be headlined with a match race between 1970's era Bedford Speedway super stars. More information will be provided later this week.

NAPA SUPER LATE MODELS

FEATURE (name, car #): Scott Rhodes 83R, Greg Fetters 39, Dave Kepner 12k, Scott Haus 33, Dave Groves 92, DJ Myers 70j, Jack Pencil 14, Rodney Sweitzer 84, Nick Dickson 17x, Billy Wampler 1w, Mike Shoemaker 55, Doug Ishler 03, Chuck LaSalle 37 (DNF), Eric Zembower 49 (DNF), Andy Fries 82 (DNF), Wayne Johnson 17 (DNF), Kirk Ryan, Jr. 5K (DNF), Dave Hoover 45 (DNF), Devin Friese (DNF), Andy Martz M1 (DNF), Ron Delano, Jr. 0 (DNS)

HEAT 1: Myers, Haus, Fetters
HEAT 2: Johnson, Pencil, Kepner
HEAT 3: Shoemaker, Rhodes, Groves

LIMITED LATE MODELS

FEATURE (name, car #): Rance Garlock 19, Tim Smith, Jr. 39, Craig Perigo 1a, Mike Altobelli, Jr. 79, John Bookwalter 1, Darryl Burkholder 2, John Hedge 80, Brian Duffy 38, Bill Henney 50, Donnie Hedge 8E, Matt Parks 15, Robbie Black 01, Kevin Weyandt 88, Shawn Claar 20, Steve Bailor 25s, Jim Leidy 11L, Scott Grubb 55x (DNF)

HEAT 1: Tim Smith, Jr., Bailor, Altobelli, Jr.
HEAT 2: Duffy, Burkholder, John Hedge

STREET STOCKS

FEATURE (name, car #): Bob Jay 4j, Kerry Molovich 63, Tim Wyles 98, Daniel Cornman 3, Terry Norris 73, John Whitfield 52, Travis Calhoun 36, Bill Kennell 19, Troy Aikey 11w (DNF), Mike Stiffler 17s (DNF), George Beckett 58 (DNF), Terry Wyles 10 (DNS)

HEAT 1: Aikey, Cornman, Whitfield
HEAT 2: Molovich, Jay, Beckett

CRUISER-HOBBY STOCKS

FEATURE: Stanley Price, Greg Hainsey, Jeff Weyandt, Shawn Wyles, Bill Replogle, Michael Clark, Joe DeArmitt, James Best, Kevin Johnson, Brad Karns, Mike Seigele, Ray Shephard, Mark Shope, Roger Hoagland, Roger Shaffer, John Dively, Chuck Weyandt, Brian Weyandt, Jr., Howie Bussard, Ruggie Guyer, Terry Wagner, Mike Duck, Ken Claar, Jr., Matt Mellott, Lincoln Ritchey, Lance Mellott, Jonathan Martin, Anthony Foor

HEAT 1: Brian Weyandt, Jr., Mark Shope, Chuck Weyandt
HEAT 2: Duck, Price, Hainsey
HEAT 3: Wyles, Ritchey, Jeff Weyandt

HAUS BREAKS RHODES' WIN STREAK
By Dave Harclerode

BEDFORD, PA - A beautiful summer evening, great racing and vintage race cars made for a perfect Friday night on "Legends of Bedford Speedway" night. Scott Haus broke Scott Rhodes' 4 race winning streak in the NAPA Super Late Model division, and Tim Smith, Jr. picked up his third win of the year in Limited Late Model action. In the Street Stock division, Daniel Cornman dominated the field to take his second win of the season, and Shawn Wyles made it look easy in the Cruiser-Hobby Stocks. During a brief intermission, the Williams Grove Old Timers Club displayed their vintage race cars on the frontstretch before running a session of hot laps, which brought back memories for fans of all ages. Also during the intermission, several local drivers from the sixties, seventies, and eighties era were honored with "Legend status". A brief interview with each driver or a family member was conducted on the frontstretch stage before they were presented with a Bedford Speedway Legend plaque. Similar to a Bedford Speedway Hall of Fame, this year's "inductees" included the late Boyd Arnold, Gerry Price, Bob Elbin, Sr., Tom Clise, Ken Imler, Sr., and Kevin Smith. Joining this year's legends on stage were the 2002 honorees Turk Burket, Gerald Chamberlain, Milt Miller, Charlie Cragan, Jim Nave, Johnny Grum, Tom Peck, and Gary Martz.

Every NAPA Super Late Model feature this season has been an exciting one, and Friday night was no different. Pole sitter Mike Shoemaker took the lead at the drop of the green and set the pace for nearly the entire race, but with 8 laps to go Scott Haus made a move to the outside. Running side by side for a lap, Haus moved to the point position and thwarted any attempts by Shoemaker to regain the lead. Scott pulled away in the closing laps, winning easily. Haus started the feature in seventh, and slowly picked off a car here and there throughout the race, but never appeared to be a threat for the win. However, with 10 laps to go veteran driver Chuck LaSalle ended his night when his Late Model ended up resting on top of the turn 1 wall. The race was red flagged while LaSalle's car was removed, and when the race resumed Haus was a man on a mission. Making the car stick on the outside, Haus went from fourth to second in one lap, and the next lap he piloted his precision guided Late Model missile around Shoemaker for the win. Shoemaker finished second, Mike Hess third, Dave Kepner fourth, and Jason Covert fifth. Sixth through tenth went to Andy Fries, Ron Delano, Jr. Eric Zembower, Chris Harr, and Rodney Sweitzer. Two drivers had excellent runs ruined half way through the event. Travis Dillman appeared to have a solid second place finish before a flat tire shredded the entire right side of his race car, and Nick Dickson gave his sixth position up when a mechanical failure ended his evening. Scott Rhodes won the consi.

Heat race winners were Shoemaker, Dillman, and Haus.

Taking a page right out of Scotty Haus' book, seventh starting Tim Smith, Jr. used the highside of the speedway to his advantage as rocketed to his third win of the season. Fourth starting Rance Garlock had victory in his sights until Smith maneuvered around him on the outside. Garlock finished the race in second, with Billy Wampler, Robbie Black, and Colby Frye rounding out the top five. Craig perigo, Matt Parks, Brian Duffy, Scott McCann, and Steve Bailor finished sixth through tenth.

Preliminary heat winners went to Black and Frye.

Daniel Cornman rolled to a six or seven car length lead to take an easy Street Stock division win. Second through seventh was a tightly contested battle the entire race, with George Beckett taking second, Kerry Molovich third, Tim Wyles fourth, and Bob Jay fifth. It was Willie Ling sixth, Troy Aikey seventh, John Whitfield eighth, Terry Norris ninth, and Terry Wyles tenth.

Beckett and Norris won the heat races.

Thirty-six Cruiser-Hobby Stocks were on hand, and Shawn Wyles was top of the class taking his third victory of the season. Second through fifth went to Jeff Weyandt, Greg Hainsey, Joe DeArmitt, and Chuck Weyandt. Finishing sixth through tenth was Lincoln Ritchey, Howie Bussard, Terry Wagner, JR Guyer, and Ruggie Guyer.

Heat races went to Brian Weyandt, Jr., Hainsey, and Mike Duck.

Next Friday, July 4th, is the Independence Day Classic 50 lap Renegade DirtCar Series sanctioned Super Late Model event. Paying $7,000 to win, the race will definitely bring in some of the best names in racing. Joining the Late Models will be the Street Stock division and a double points / double money show for the Cruiser-Hobby Stocks.

NAPA SUPER LATE MODELS - 28 cars

FEATURE: (Name, car #) Scott Haus 33, Mike Shoemaker 55, Mike Hess 39x, Dave Kepner 12k, Jason Covert 15m, Andy Fries 82, Ron Delano, Jr. 0, Eric Zembower 49, Chris Harr w1, Rodney Sweitzer 84, Wayne Johnson 17, Greg Fetters 39, Billy Wampler 1w, Scott Rhodes 83R, Devin Friese 12, Andy Martz M1, Chuck Clise 5 (DNF), Nick Dickson 17x (DNF), Les Hare 1H (DNF), Dave Groves 92 (DNF), Chuck LaSalle 37 (DNF), Mike Altobelli, Jr. 79 (DNF), Travis Dillman 22D (DNF), Dave Hoover 45 (DNF)

HEAT 1: Shoemaker, Hess, Hare
HEAT 2: Dillman, Dickson, Delano, Jr.
HEAT 3: Haus, Friese, Kepner
CONSI: Rhodes, Groves, Harr

LIMITED LATE MODELS - 20 cars

FEATURE: Tim Smith, Jr., Rance Garlock, Billy Wampler, Robbie Black, Colby Frye, Craig Perigo, Matt Parks, Brian Duffy, Scott McCann, Steve Bailor, John Hedge, Donnie Hedge, Brian Weyandt, John Bookwalter, Scott Grubb, Derek Byler, Jim Leidy, Shawn Claar (DNF), Gary Potts (DNF), Derrick Zirkle (DNF)

HEAT 1: Black, Wampler, Leidy
HEAT 2: Frye, Garlock, Smith, Jr.

STREET STOCKS - 15 cars

FEATURE: Daniel Cornman, George Beckett, Kerry Molovich, Tim Wyles, Bob Jay, Willie Ling, Troy Aikey, John Whitfield, Terry Norris, Terry Wyles, Kevin See, Mike Stiffler, Travis Calhoun, Bill Kennell, Travis Brown

CRUISER-HOBBY STOCKS - 36 cars

FEATURE: Shawn Wyles, Jeff Weyandt, Greg Hainsey, Joe DeArmitt, Chuck Weyandt, Lincoln Ritchey, Howie Bussard, Terry Wagner, JR Guyer, Ruggie Guyer, James Best, Brad Karns, Daren Desch, Wes Miles, Sr., Mike Duck, Jonathan Martin, Roger Hoagland, Lance Mellott, John Dively, Mike Siegele, Mike Mathews, Brian Weyandt, Jr., Rick Potter, Jerry Robinson, Kevin Hunsicker, Stanley Price, Kevin Johnson, Joe Moyer, Bill Replogle

HEAVY RAINS SOAK PITS AT BEDFORD
By Dave Harclerode

BEDFORD, PA - The pit area at Bedford Speedway has finally had it's fill of water. Heavy rains Thursday night forced the promoting trio of DKM, Inc. to cancel Friday night's racing event due to severely wet grounds. Next week at the speedway is a regular 4 division show featuring Super Late Models, Limited Late Models, Street Stocks and Cruiser-Hobby Stocks.

GREG HODNETT WINS PA POSSE INVITATIONAL
By Dave Harclerode
Photo By Scott Welsh

BEDFORD, PA - Greg Hodnett was on top of his game Tuesday night when he won the annual Pa Posse Invitational 410 Sprint race at Bedford Speedway. Greg drove a flawless race and led all 30 laps to claim the $3,000 paycheck. Jason Johnson finished second, and Lance Dewease came from 14th to finish third. Fourth went Keith Kauffman (from 18th), and Mark Smith ended up fifth. Brian Ellenberger, Mike Wagner, Chad Layton, Billy Siims and Troy Whitesel rounded out the top ten. The race was red flagged on lap 2 when Josh Wells rolled his sprinter in turn 1. Todd Hestor ended his night early when he and Kyle Ganoe flipped their cars simulaneously in turn 4 during hot laps. Jason Johnson was the winner of the Dash for Cash. Twenty-nine sprint cars entered the event.

Heat winners were Jason Johnson, Mark Smith, Fred Rahmer and Randy Baughman. Vince Snyder won the B-main.

The Cruiser-Hobby Stocks shared the spotlight with the big sprint cars, and Mike Duck claimed his second victory of the season over Greg Hainsey, Bill Replogle, Shawn Wyles and Jeff Weyandt.

This Friday at the speedway is a regular 4 division show consisting of Super Late Models, Limited Late Models, Street Stocks, and Cruiser-Hobby Stocks.

410 SPRINT CARS - 29 cars

FEATURE: GREG HODNETT, Jason Johnson, Lance Dewease, Keith Kauffman, Mark Smith, Brian Ellenberger, Mike Wagner, Chad Layton, Billy Sims, Troy Whitesel, Rod Stroup, Dan Shetler, Vince Snyder, Rob Mellott, Brian Bossinger, Randy Baughman (DNF), Fred Rahmer (DNF), Robert Varner (DNF), Denny Mellott (DNF), Joe Zap (DNF), Josh Wells (DNF), Mark Secrest (DNF), Jim Kennedy (DNF), Jim Roush (DNF)

HEAT 1: Johnson, Wells, Layton
HEAT 2: Smith, Whitesel, Wagner
HEAT 3: Rahmer, Hodnett, Stroup
HEAT 4: Baughman, Ellenberger, Zap

B-Main: Snyder, Denny Mellott, Roush, Secrest

DASH FOR CASH: Johnson, Rahmer, Smith, Baughman

CRUISER-HOBBY STOCKS

FEATURE: Mike Duck, Greg Hainsey, Bill Replogle, Shawn Wyles, Jeff Weyandt, Jerry Robinson, Chuck Weyandt, Joe DeArmitt, Kevin Johnson, Brad Karns, Terry Wagner, Howie Bussard, JR Guyer, Daren Desch, Mark Shope, Bill Monihan, Clay Logsdon, Jr., Ron Spade, Mike Siegele, Roger Hoagland, Ray Shephard, John Dively, Ken Claar, Jr., Robert Sheetz, Mark Snyder, Lincoln Ritchey, Mike Isett, Rick Potter, Stanley Price, Chris Chaney, Brian Weyandt, Jr., Larry Mock, Don Betres, Ryan Sager (DQ), Anthony Foor (DNS)

HEAT 1: Price, Duck, Replogle
HEAT 2: Sager, Wyles, Hainsey
HEAT 3: Jeff Weyandt, DeArmitt, Robinson

RHODES UNSTOPPABLE AT BEDFORD
By Dave Harclerode
Photo by Scott Welsh

BEDFORD, PA - It was the Bob Sweitzer Memorial race at Bedford Speedway Friday night, and the weather was beautiful. It doesn't seem to matter where Scott Rhodes lines up in the NAPA Late Model starting grid because it's a guarantee he'll be up front before the checkered falls. Atleast that's how it's been for the past 4 weeks. Rhodes picked up his fourth win in a row Friday night, all of them in spectacular fashion. Scott started 14th three times and 12th once in each of his wins. In Limited Late Model action, Robbie Black picked up his first ever career win at the Speedway, and Bob Jay won the Street Stock main after apparent winner Kerry Molovich was disqualified in the tech station. Winning last week's Cruiser-Hobby Stock make up feature was Mike Duck, and Greg Hainsey took home the checkered in the regular scheduled race.

It was a wild night for the NAPA Late Models. Pole sitter Devin Friese jumped out to an early lead, but soon found himself overtaken by 5th starting Scott Haus. Haus set the pace for much of the race as the rest of the field mixed it up behind him, and Scott Rhodes began his weekly journey to the front from deep in the pack. Starting in the 14th position, Rhodes gradually worked his way through the field by using the high side of the race track. He cracked the top 5 just past the half way mark, but Haus was setting an incredibly fast pace and it appeared that Rhodes would run out of time this week. However, a 5 car pile up in turn 1 involving Mike Altobelli, Rick Singleton, Andy Fries, Tim Wilson and Nick Dickson brought out the red flag and bunched the field back up. Singleton was shaken up in the accident and taken to Bedford Hospital for observation. He then was transported to Altoona Hospital for precautionary tests. When racing resumed, it was all Scotty Rhodes. With 3 laps to go, Rhodes was already side by side with Haus racing for the lead, and the fans were going crazy. On the last lap in the last turn, Rhodes completed the pass and narrowly beat Haus at the line for the $1500 pay check. Devin Friese finished third, Ron Delano, Jr. fourth, and Greg Fetters fifth. Rounding out the top ten was Eric Zembower, Mike Hess, Wayne Johnson, Jason Covert and Rodney Sweitzer.

Fetters, Chris Harr and Wayne Johnson won the preliminary heat races.

In Limited Late Model action, Robbie Black took the lead from his outside pole starting position and never looked back. Pole sitter Mike Altobelli, Jr. held on for second place, finishing the race after losing both headers on the speedway. Craig Perigo was third, and Colby Frye and Shawn Claar rounded out the top 5. Sixth through tenth went to Tim Smith, Jr., Matt Parks, Devin Friese, Kevin Weyandt and Bill Henney.

Perigo and Smith, Jr. won the heats.

The Street Stock division thrilled fans with their usual bumper to bumper action, and last week's winner Kerry Molovich crossed the checkered first. However, Molovich was disqualified after the race, handing the win to a surprised Bob Jay. George Beckett came home in third, Mark Corden fourth, and Terry Norris fifth. Travis Brown, Troy Aikey, Terry Wyles, Willie Ling and Bill Kennell rounded out the top ten.

Heats went to Beckett and Daniel Cornman

Mike Duck took home the prize money in the Cruiser-Hobby Stock make up feature from a week ago, with Greg Hainsey finishing in second. In the regularly scheduled race, Greg Hainsey took the win, and Mike Duck settled for second. There were 40 Cruiser-Hobby Stocks in the pits.

NAPA SUPER LATE MODELS - 28 cars

FEATURE: Scott Rhodes, Scott Haus, Devin Friese, Ron Delano, Jr., Greg Fetters, Eric Zembower, Mike Hess, Wayne Johnson, Jason Covert, Rodney Sweitzer, Dave Hoover, Mike Shoemaker, Chuck LaSalle, Garry Beck, Jr., Dave Shulski, Chris Harr (DNF), Doug Ishler (DNF), Earl French (DNF), Mike Altobelli (DNF), Rick Singleton (DNF), Andy Fries (DNF), Nick Dickson (DNF), Mike Wilson (DNF), Dave Kepner (DNF), Billy Wampler (DNF), Scott Flickinger (DNF), Andy Martz (DNF), Shane Beegle (DNS)

LIMITED LATE MODELS - 21 cars

FEATURE: Robbie Black, Mike Altobelli, Jr., Craig Perigo, Colby Frye, Shawn Claar, Tim Smith, Jr., Matt Parks, Devin Friese, Kevin Weyandt, Bill Henney, Mike Spangler, Derek Byler, Steve Bailor, Rance Garlock, Ron Kline, Scott Grubb, JR Grebe, Brian Duffy (DNF), Kirk Baker (DNF), Justin Kann (DNF), Dave Sokoloski (DNS)

STREET STOCKS - 14 cars

FEATURE: Bob Jay, George Beckett, Mark Corden, Terry Norris, Travis Brown, Troy Aikey, Terry Wyles, Willie Ling, Bill Kennell, Daniel Cornman, John Whitfield, Tim Wyles, Travis Calhoun, Kerry Molovich

410 SPRINTS COMING TO BEDFORD SPEEDWAY
By Dave Harclerode

BEDFORD, PA - The 410 sprint cars will be invading Bedford Speedway on TUESDAY, June 10th for the PA Posse Invitational. Highlighing the evening will be a 30 lap feature paying $3,000 to win / $300 to take the green, and a Dash for Cash. Middleswarth Potato Chips and Metzler's Auto Sales will be sponsoring the event. Sharing the spotlight will be the Cruiser-Hobby Stock Division, racing for double points and extra money. Gates open at 5pm with hot laps at 7pm, and racing starting at 7:30pm. The raindate will be Wednesday, June 11th. Please call the track office @ 814-623-0500 for more information, or visit the web at www.bedfordspeedway.com

SCOTT RHODES WINS THIRD STRAIGHT
By Dave Harclerode
Photo Credit: Scott Welsh

BEDFORD, PA - The racing was fast and the competition intense on Painter's Garage night at Bedford Speedway Friday. In the NAPA Late Models, Scott Rhodes came from deep in the pack for the second week in a row to score his third consecutive win. Kerry Molovich became the first repeat winner of the year in the Street Stock division, and Tim Smith, Jr. claimed his second victory of the year in Limited late Model action.

Last week in the NAPA Late Model division, Scott Rhodes came from the 14th starting spot for the win. This week, he started 12th and repeated the performance using the exact same driving style. Early race leader Scott Haus suffered a flat tire, sending him to the tail of field. Shanksville, Pa's Rodney Sweitzer inherited the lead, but it wasn't long until Rhodes was knocking at his door. Using the highside, Rhodes picked off cars each lap until finally sweeping by Sweitzer in turn 4. Rhodes checked out on the field, scoring his third straight victory. Sweitzer had a strong 2nd place finish, followed by Rick Singleton, Andy Fries, and fifth place Mike Altobelli, who started 18th. Sixth through tenth went to Ron Delano, Jr., Eric Zembower, Scott Haus, Dave Hoover and Devin Friese.

Preliminary heats went to Rick Singleton, Scott Haus and Ron Delano, Jr.

For the first time this season, a Street Stock driver won by more than three car lengths. Season opener winner Kerry Molovich powered to his 10th career win at Bedford Speedway, winning by more than 8 car lengths. Pole sitter Bob Jay was the point leader entering the evening's events, but a stroke of bad luck sent him pitside for the evening with a broken axle. Early race leader Daniel Cornman also suffered mechanical problems, ending his night early. Although the Molovich was all by himself out front, the battle for second through fifth was in typical fashion. Swapping positions each lap, it was Troy Aikey nailing down the second place finish, with Matt Emerick, Terry Norris and George Beckett finishing directly behind him. Tim Wyles, Terry Wyles, John Whitfield, Daniel Cornman and Travis Calhoun rounded out the top ten.

Heat race winners were Molovich and Bob Jay.

It was a wild Limited Late Model feature, so wild that the race was red flagged and considered complete two laps short. Taking a page from Scotty Rhodes' Late Model feature winning performance, 8th starting Tim Smith, Jr. found the highside to his advantage. Smith worked his way through the field and eventually caught race leader Kevin Weyandt. Smith made his move and took the lead, claiming his second win in a row. Many cautions filled the event, and it was the last caution that ended the night for Bedford Speedway. With two laps to go, Rance Garlock and Jim Leidy got tangled, literally. Both cars were hooked together in a manner in which it was impossible to un-hook them without severely damaging the cars. After several minutes of trying, the track crew finally decided to partially dismantle one of the cars in order to separate them. By the time the job was finished, the 11:30 curfew had passed. Promoters DKM asked for permission to continue, but permission was denied.

Winning the heats were Kevin Weyandt and Tim Smith, Jr.

The postponed Cruiser/Hobby feature from a week a go saw 29 cars take the green. Amazingly, only one caution slowed the race. Driving the Roy Stewart owned # 48, Stanley Price took home his first victory of the season. The regularly scheduled feature was postponed due to the curfew, and will be made up next Friday.

Next week at the speedway is the Bob Sweitzer Memorial race. The Late Models will be racing for $1,500 to win, and there will be extra money to the winners in each division. Admission price will be the same for a regular show ($8.00 general, $18.00 pit). Coming up on Tuesday, June 10th is the 410 PA Posse Invitational Sprint race, a $3,000 to win / $300 to start event including a Dash for Cash. Sharing the spotlight will be the Cruiser/Hobby division, which will be racing for double points and extra money. The rain date for this event will be June 11th.

NAPA SUPER LATE MODELS - 23 cars

FEATURE: Scott Rhodes 83R, Rodney Sweitzer 84, Rick Singleton 92, Andy Fries 82, Mike Altobelli 80, Ron Delano, Jr. 0, Eric Zembower 49, Scott Haus 33, Dave Hoover 45, Devin Friese 12, Nick Dickson 17x, Chuck LaSalle 37, Bob Gordon 31, Doug Ishler 03, Mike Shoemaker 55(DNF), Shane Beegle 15(DNF), Chris Harr w1(DNF), Tim Wilson 3(DNF), Wayne Johnson 17(DNF), Dave Kepner 12k(DNF), Billy Wampler 1w(DNF), Andy Martz M1(DNF), Greg Fetters 39(DNS)

Heat 1: Singleton, Shoemaker, Gordon
Heat 2: Haus, Zembower, Johnson
Heat 3: Delano, Jr., Fries, Sweitzer

LIMITED LATE MODELS - 18 cars

FEATURE: Tim Smith, Jr. 39, Kevin Weyandt 88, Brian Duffy 38, Billy Wampler U10, Robbie Black 01, Matt Parks 15, Bud Witmer 5, Donnie Hedge 8E, Colby Frye F1, John Hedge 80, Shawn Claar 20, Mike Altobelli, Jr. 79, Jim Leidy 11L(DNF), Rance Garlock 19(DNF), Scott Grubb 55x(DNF), John Bookwalter 1(DNF), Craig Perigo 1a(DNF), Jeff Bryner 4J(DNF)

Heat 1: Weyandt, Frye, Black
Heat 2: Smith, Jr., Duffy, Wampler

STREET STOCKS - 14 cars

FEATURE: Kerry Molovich 63, Troy Aikey 11w, Matt Emerick 85, Terry Norris 73, George Beckett 58, Tim Wyles 98, Terry Wyles 10, John Whitfield 52, Daniel Cornman 3(DNF), Travis Calhoun 36(DNF), Travis Brown 29(DNF), Bob Jay 4j(DNF), Mike Duquay 6(DNF), Mike Stiffler 17s(DNS)

Heat 1: Molovich, Beckett, Cornman
Heat 2: Jay, Aikey, Whitfield

FEATURE: Stanley Price, Shawn Wyles, Tom Warren, Raymond Fisher, Joe DeArmitt, Bill Replogle, Lincoln Ritchey, Ryan Sager, Mike Siegele, Ray Shephard, Howie Bussard, Lance Mellott, Brian Weyandt, Jr., Terry Wagner, Kevin Johnson, Ron Spade, Chuck Weyandt, Mark Snyder, Anthony Foor, John Dively, Clay Logsdon, Jr., Don Betres, Daren Desch, Jonathon Martin, Rodger Hoagland, J.R. Guyer, Mark Shope, Wayne Irvin, Ruggie Guyer

Heat 1: Price, Siegele, Martin
Heat 2: Shope, Fisher, Mellott
Heat 3: JR Guyer, Warren, Sager
Heat 4: Wyles, Greg Hainsey, Joe DeArmitt

RHODES WINS 35 LAP MEMORIAL DAY SPECIAL
By Dave Harclerode

BEDFORD, PA - After two weeks of gloomy, wet weather, the sun finally shined on Bedford Speedway this weekend. The dry weather didn't last long though, as only 3 of the 4 scheduled features were completed before the rain returned. It was ARCH Fan Club Night, sponsored by LaSalle's Engine and Chassis, and 108 cars packed the pits for the holiday weekend race. Scott Rhodes picked up his second win in a row in the 35 lap Memorial Day Special NAPA Late Model feature. Tim Smith, Jr. led flag to flag in the Limited Late Models, and Bob Jay picked up his first win of the season in the Street Stocks. The Hobby/Cruiser feature was halted on lap one when rain ended the evening's events. The Hobby/Cruiser feature will be rescheduled next week, along with their regular scheduled race.

The NAPA Late Model feature was a classic. Scott Rhodes started in the 14th position, and put in a full night's work to pick up the $2,000 pay check. Scott Haus started on the pole and grabbed the lead at the drop of the green. Maintaining a two to three car length lead over Steve Everhart, it appeared that Haus was just cruising, saving his tires. Meanwhile, back in the field, Rhodes was picking off cars one at a time using the highside of the racetrack. A couple cautions slowed the event, and it was a rough night for Renegade DirtCar Rookie of the Year Contenders Dave Troutman and Jack Pencil. While running in the top 5, Pencil lost the handle in turns 1 and 2 bringing out the caution. Troutman was involved in a scary accident on the frontstretch, where it appeared that he lost his steering. With less than 10 laps remaining, Scott Rhodes found himself in the second position. Using the highside again, Rhodes powered by Haus in turn 4, and never looked back. Winning by three to four car lengths, Rhodes became the first Late Model driver of the season to score more than one feature victory. Haus settled for second, and Steve Everhart finished 3rd. Rodney Sweitzer took the 4th finishing spot, and newcomer Steve Campbell nailed down the 5th spot. Sixth through tenth were DJ Troutman, Wayne Johnson, Greg Fetters, Eric Zembower and Andy Fries.

Heat winners were Wayne Johnson, Haus, and Rodney Sweitzer.

Twenty-seven cars started the Limited Late Model Feature, but less than half of the field finished in the caution filled event. Tim Smith, Jr. started on the pole and outlasted several restarts and a hard charging Kevin Weyandt to take his first victory of the season. Weyandt finished in the second position, but was DQ'd at the scales, giving the spot to Stoystown's Craig Perigo. Third went to Rance Garlock, fourth to Robbie Black, and fifth was Billy Wampler in the familiar # U10. Wampler pulled double duty, driving the U10 Limited and his # 1W Super Late Model. Sixth through tenth went to Bud Witmer, Larry Baer, Ron Beam, Sr., Brad Kling and Donnie Hedge.

Robbie Black, Colby Frye, and Billy Wampler won the preliminary heat races.

Bob Jay, the 2002 Street Stock Champion, put himself to the top of this year's points list with his feature victory Sunday night. Pole sitter John Whitfield paced the field for much of the race, but Bob Jay proved to be too much as he worked past Whitfield and defended late race charges from George Beckett to take the win. The top 5 positions battled nose to tail, sometimes running three wide. When it was all over, Beckett finished second, Troy Aikey third, and Whitfield and Daniel Cornman fourth and fifth. Sixth through tenth went to Tim Wyles, Kerry Molovich, Terry Norris, Ashley Barrett and Terry Wyles.

Heat races went to Cornman and Molovich.

Next week is a regular 4 division show, which includes the NAPA Late Models, Limited Late Models, Street Stocks and Hobby/Cruisers. The evening will start with the make up Hobby/Cruiser race, which has one lap in the books. Coming up on Tuesday, June 10th is the PA Posse Invitational 410 Sprint race, a $3,000 to win / $300 to start 30 lap event. Sharing the spotlight will be the Hobby/Cruiser division, racing for double points and money. The rain date for this event will be Wednesday, June 11th.

NAPA SUPER LATE MODELS - 26 cars

FEATURE (35 laps): Scott Rhodes 83R, Scott Haus 33, Steve Everhart 15E, Rodney Sweitzer 84, Steve Campbell 2, DJ Troutman 7J, Wayne Johnson 17, Greg Fetters 39, Eric Zembower 49, Andy Fries 82, Dave Kepner 12k, Jack Pencil 14, Dave Hoover 45, Chuck LaSalle 37, Nick Dickson 17x, Doug Ishler 03, Mike Shoemaker 55, Ron Delano, Jr. 0 (DNF), Andy Martz M1 (DNF), Jeff Smith 32 (DNF), Billy Wampler 1W (DNF), Dave Troutman 7 (DNF), Rick Singleton 92 (DNF), Chris Harr W1 (DNF), Shane Beegle 15 (DNS), Tony Raneri 64 (DNS)

Heat 1: Johnson, Everhart, Campbell
Heat 2: Haus, DJ Troutman, Smith
Heat 3: Sweitzer, Pencil, Harr

LIMITED LATE MODELS - 27 cars

FEATURE: Tim Smith, Jr. 39, Craig Perigo 1A, Rance Garlock 19, Robbie Black 01, Billy Wampler U10, Bud Witmer 5, Larry Baer 0, Ron Beam, Sr. 41, Brad Kling 11, Donnie Hedge 8E (DNF), Jim Leidy 11L, John Bookwalter 1 (DNF), Matt Parks 15 (DNF), Kirk Baker 20B (DNF), Steve Bailor 25s (DNF), Steve Bard 72 (DNF), Colby Frye F1 (DNF), Bill Burns 69 (DNF), Mike Altobelli, Jr. 79 (DNF), Ron Evans 3 (DNF), Derek Byler 5* (DNF), John Hedge 80 (DNF), Brad Houck 21 (DNF), Scott Grubb 55x (DNF), Shawn Claar 20 (DNF), Clyde Monahan 19m (DNF), Kevin Weyandt 88 (DQ)

Heat 1: Black, Witmer, Perigo
Heat 2: Frye, Houck, John Hedge
Heat 3: Wampler, Smith, Jr., Weyandt

STREET STOCKS - 14 cars

FEATURE: Bob Jay 4j, George Beckett 58, Troy Aikey 11w, John Whitfield 52, Daniel Cornman 3, Tim Wyles 98, Kerry Molovich 63, Terry Norris 73, Ashley Barrett 75x, Terry Wyles 10, Travis Calhoun 36, Kevin See 17k (DNF), Travis Brown 29 (DNF), Mike Stiffler 17s (DNS)

Bedford Speedway was canceled once again due to rain.

Next Friday, May 23rd is the Memorial Day Special, a 4 division show with the Late Models racing 35 laps for $2,000 to win.

RAIN POSTPONES BOB SWEITZER MEMORIAL RACE
By Dave Harclerode

"Dinner at Home" was the theme Friday night for area race fanatics after a down pour soaked Bedford County all morning long, forcing Bedford Speedway's management to postpone the evening's racing event.

The Bob Sweitzer Memorial race will be re-scheduled for next Friday, May 16th. It's a 4 division regular show with increased payout to the winners in all divisions. NAPA Late Models: $1,500 to win. Limited Late Models: $700 to win. Street Stocks: $350 to win. Cruiser-Hobby: $250 to win.

May 23rd is the Memorial Day Special, a 4 divisioin show with the NAPA Late Models racing 35 laps for $2,000 to win.

BEDFORD SPEEDWAY STREET STOCKS
By: Dave Harclerode

The Street Stocks may not be the featured division at Bedford Speedway,
but over the years they've become a fan favorite with their close
quarters racing and electrifying action. Each week, the division
dazzles fans with spectacular racing, and the intensity on the track
cannot be denied. Nor can the men piloting these machines.

The Street Stocks officially became a division at Bedford in 1977. Over
the years, the division has had several name changes. Starting out as
Street Stocks, they've been called Strictly Stocks, Pure Stocks, Pro
Stocks, and now Street Stocks again. Originally designed as an entry
level class, they've now become similar to the Semi-lates of the
eighties. Currently, the Cruiser-Hobby division serves as Bedford's
entry level division, but the Street Stocks still are appealing to first
time drivers. Which division a rookie driver wants to race depends on
how much money they want to spend on their first car. The rules and
regulations keep each car nearly equal, so much of a driver's success
relies on skill (and some luck).

The Street Stock races are a great place for drivers to hone their
driving skills, increase their courage, and learn from mistakes. Many
former Street Stock graduates are excellent Late Model drivers, and the
experience gained in their early years is partly responsible. Jack
Pencil, the 2002 Late Model Champion, started his career slinging a
Street Stock around Bedford and other area tracks in the eighties. Dave
Kepner, the 1978 Street Stock Champion, won 2 Late Model features at
Bedford last year, and qualified for this year's Renegade DirtCar race.
1983 Champion Chuck LaSalle is competing as a rookie this year in the
Late Model division. Claysburg's Kevin Weyandt, the only driver to win
3 Street Stock Championships in Bedford's history, is a dominate force
these days in the Limited Late Model class. The list of former Street
Stock drivers turned Late Model star goes on and on, from Mike Altobelli
to Eric Zembower.

The drivers competing in today's Street Stock division are as tough as
they come. 2002 champ Bob Jay is out to repeat his success from last
year, gunning for his second championship in only his third year of
racing Street Stocks. Two-time champion George Beckett has one win
already this season, and is a consistent front runner in the familiar
number 58. Kerry Molovich has won a race already this year, putting his
total career wins at 9. Ranked 9th all-time, Kerry has more Street
Stock wins than any other active driver. Although a championship at
Bedford has evaded Kerry, it's inevitable that it will happen for him
sometime soon. The only other driver to win a feature this year is
Daniel Cornman, who won this past Friday. Daniel is always a hard
charger, and is consistently up front mixing it up for the lead.

Any of the Street Stock contenders could win on any given night,
something that is unusual in most forms of racing. Cumberland Speedway
standout Matt Emerick has made several visits to Bedford this year, and
Everett's Troy Aikey has stood in Victory Lane several times in the
past. Bedford's John Whitfield has been close to nailing down his first
victory several times, including last Friday when he finished third.
Last year's Cruiser-Hobby champion Terry Norris is racing a Street Stock
this year, and appears to be a front runner already. Tim Wyles, Travis
Calhoun, Bill Kennell, JR Bowers, Travis Brown and others battle week
after week fighting for their first win in a division where wins aren't
easy.

Next week at the speedway is the Bob Sweitzer Memorial Race. Each
division will pay extra to the winner: NAPA Late Models - $1,500 to
win, Limited Late Models - $700 to win, Street Stocks - $350.00 to win,
and Hobby-Cruisers - $250 to win. May 23rd is the Memorial Day Special,
a 4 division show with the NAPA Late Models racing 35 laps for $2,000 to
win.

RHODES ROLLS TO BEDFORD WIN
By Dave Harclerode

BEDFORD, PA - A comfortable evening and a smooth racing surface provided fans with great racing action Friday night. Somerset, Pa's Scott Rhodes made it look easy as he cruised to the NAPA Late Model win. In Limited Late Model action, Bud Witmer stole the show with a late race charge that resulted in a crowd pleasing win for the Dover, PA resident. Street Stock driver Daniel Cornman found himself in first place on the last lap to take the checkered in the division's action packed feature event, and Shawn Wyles picked up the win in the wild and crazy Cruiser-Hobby division.

In the first half of the NAPA Late Model feature it appeared that Scott Rhodes would win easily as he powered to a 10 car length lead over Wayne Johnson and the rest of the field. But after a lap 12 caution for Andy Fries' flat tire, fifth place starter Jack Pencil and eighth place starter Scott Haus made a run for the front. Pencil, the 2002 track champ, made several attempts to take the lead, but just couldn't make it happen as Rhodes pulled to a five car length lead. As Rhodes and Pencil pulled away from the pack, Scott Haus was working hard to pass Wayne Johnson for the third spot. Using the low groove, Haus accomplished the maneuver in turn 3 and then quickly moved to the high side to try to catch the first two cars. Unfortunately for Haus and Pencil, the laps ran out and Rhodes rolled to his first victory of the year. Pencil settled for second, and Haus, Johnson, and Rick Singleton rounded out the top five.

Qualifying heats went to Haus, Devin Friese, and Ron Delano, Jr.

In Limited Late Model action, pole sitter John Hedge grabbed the lead early and spent most of the race protecting the top spot from Colby Frye. Meanwhile, Bud Witmer worked his way up from the fourth starting spot and eventually took over the second position. It appeared that Hedge had the field covered until a late race caution gave Witmer time to cool his tires. When the green flag came back out, Witmer was on a mission. With 3 laps remaining, Witmer made a gutsy move on the outside of Hedge going into turn one. When they exited turn two, Witmer had the lead, and hung on for the rest of the race. Frye finished second after Hedge was disqualified at the tech line. Third place went to Rance Garlock, followed by Kevin Weyandt and Tim Smith, Jr.

Shawn Claar and John Hedge won the heat races.

As expected, the Street Stock feature was filled with it's usual door handle to door handle action. On the last lap, race leader Kerry Molovich made hard contact with the turn 3 wall, bringing out the caution. Daniel Cornman inherited the lead for the one lap dash to the checkered. Cornman hung on for the win, with Bob Jay, John Whitfield, George Beckett, and Tim Wyles rounding the top five. Second place finisher Terry Norris was disqualified at the scales.

Heat races went to George Beckett and Bob Jay.

The Cruiser-Hobby division's 15 lap feature capped off a perfect night of racing with an incredible race. The 28 car field rivaled the Street Stocks for their close-knit racing, and the action was all over the track. Shawn Wyles became Bedford's first repeat winner of the year, with Tom Warren, Greg Hainsey, Stanley Price and Terry Wagner completing the top five.

Lincoln Ritchey, Mike Duck and Shawn Wyles won the qualifying heats.

Next week, a four division show will be on tap with the Late Models running a $1,500 to win Bob Sweitzer Memorial race. Mrs. Sweitzer will be adding $100 to the winner of the Limited Late Model, Street Stock, and Hobby-Cruiser features.

NAPA SUPER LATE MODELS

FEATURE: SCOTT RHODES 83R, Jack Pencil 14, Scott Haus 33, Wayne Johnson 17, Rick Singleton 92, Ron Delano, Jr. 0, Chris Harr w1, Mike Shoemaker 55, Eric Zembower 49, Rodney Sweitzer 84, Billy Wampler 1w, Shane Beegle 15, Chuck LaSalle 37, Nick Dickson 17x, Andy Martz M1, Mike Altobelli 80, Andy Fries 82(DNF), Greg Fetters 39(DNF), Dave Kepner 12k(DNF), Devin Friese 12(DNF)

Heat 1: Haus, Altobelli, Singleton
Heat 2: Friese, Pencil, Shoemaker
Heat 3: Delano, Jr., Rhodes, Johnson

LIMITED LATE MODELS

FEATURE: BUD WITMER 5, Colby Frye F1, Rance Garlock 19, Kevin Weyandt 88, Tim Smith, Jr. 39, Shawn Claar 20, Robbie Black 01, Matt Parks 15, Brian Duffy 38, Mike Altobelli, Jr. 79, Don Hedge 8E, Scott Grubb 55x, Craig Perigo 1a(DNF), Justin Kann 66(DNF), Tim Cogan 85(DNF), John Hedge 80 (DQ)

Heat 1: Claar, Weyandt, Witmer
Heat 2: J. Hedge, Garlock, Frye

STREET STOCKS

FEATURE: DANIEL CORNMAN 3, Bob Jay 4J, John Whitfield 52, George Beckett 58, Tim Wyles 98, Kerry Molovich 63, Travis Brown 29, Bill Kennell 10(DNF), Travis Calhoun 36(DNF), Troy Aikey 11w(DNF), Terry Norris 73(DQ)

Heat 1: Beckett, Norris, Calhoun
Heat 2: Jay, Cornman, Aikey

CRUISER/HOBBY

FEATURE: SHAWN WYLES 21, Tom Warren 1, Greg Hainsey 31, Stanley Price 48, Terry Wagner 38, Mike Siegele 007, Bill Replogle 60, Daren Desch d16, Jonathan Martin 28, Ron Spade 95, Kevin Johnson 97, Mike Mathews 10, Clay Logdson 9c, Rodger Hoagland 13, Ray Shepherd 9, Howie Bussard 15, Brian Weyandt, Jr. 88jr, Anthony Foor A4, Matt Mellott 6m, Rick Potter 9w, Lincoln Ritchey 3, Mike Duck 73, Ken Claar, Jr. KC2, Jeff Weyandt 88, Larry Mock 21x, Darl Ritchey 81, Ricky Imler 14, James Best 24

Heat 1: L Ritchey, Hainsey, J. Weyandt
Heat 2: Duck, Potter, Bussard
Heat 3: Wyles, Warren, Shepherd

INVADER SHOCKS REGULARS, TAKES BEDFORD OPENER
By Dave Harclerode

Photo by Scott Welsh

BEDFORD, PA - After a long winter, and one rain out in the books, the promoting trio of DKM, Inc. promised their fans they would see some racing this weekend. When a nagging drizzle forced them to cancel the regular scheduled show on Friday night, DKM, Inc. kept that promise by re-scheduling the race for the following night. Although the Saturday night NAPA/Interchange Emergency Services race was a non point event, the car and fan support was tremendous. Preparing for next week's Renegade Dirt Car Series race, Titusville, Pa's Rob Blair proved he'll be a force to be reckoned with by beating Bedford's tough gang of NAPA/Interchange Emergency Services Super Late Models. In Limited Late Model action, former Street Stock sensation Brian Duffy scored his first career feature win in the division, while Kerry Molovich started the season off on the right foot by claiming victory in an intense battle for the Street Stock win. Also, Terry Wyles took the checkered flag in the crowd pleasing Hobby/Cruiser division.

Robbie Blair started on the pole for the 23 car Late Model Feature, but by no means did he cruise to an easy victory. Rookie Late Model driver Ron Delano, Jr. surprised many with his skills behind the wheel as he stayed in contact with Blair for the first 10 laps of the race. After the first few laps, 3rd starting veteran Scott Haus started making his car work on the high side, and it wasn't long until he passed Delano and started knocking on Blair's door. At the half way point, it was side by side racing with Blair running the middle of the track, and Haus running all the way up to the outside wall. At one point, Haus had the lead, but he just couldn't make it stick as Blair checked out to a comfortable lead. Delano, Jr. dove under Haus in turn two to secure second, and Wayne Johnson took over the third spot, with Haus settling for fourth. Rounding out the top 5 was Scott Rhodes in the familiar number 83R.

Winning the preliminary heat races were Jack Pencil, Scott Haus, and Devin Friese.

Brian Duffy's win in the Limited Late Model division will be one to remember. A rookie in the division, Duffy cruised to victory in his first try at Bedford Speedway. Realizing the importance of setting the bar for the rest of the season, Duffy waved to the crowd and pumped his fist in the air with excitement on his cool down lap. Duffy started in the 5th spot, and quickly worked his way up to second behind race leader Rance Garlock. It seemed as if Garlock had the victory within grasp when suddenly a mechanical failure sent him pitside. Duffy inherited the lead and never looked back, fending off challenges from second place finisher John Hedge along the way to the checkered. Rounding out the top 5 were Robbie Black, Colby Frye, and Craig Perigo.

Heat winners for the Limited's were Scott McCann and Mike Altobelli, Jr.

The Street Stock division picked up where they left off last year, with weekly door handle to door handle racing. The feature race had the fans on their feet as Kerry Molovich, Daniel Cornman, and George Beckett put on a great show. Battling lap after lap, Everett's Kerry Molovich grabbed the season opener along with the trophy and prize money. Daniel Cornman raced hard for the second spot, with George Beckett, Troy Aikey, and John Whitfield rounding out the top five.

Daniel Cornman and Kerry Molovich won the preliminary heat races.

In the Cruiser/Hobby division, Shawn Wyles led flag to flag to score his first victory of the 2003 season. In typical Cruiser/Hobby fashion, the action was all over the track. Running bumper to bumper for much of the race, Greg Hainsey and seventh starting Ken Claar, Jr. heated up the chilly April night with great racing. Hainsey held off late race charges from Claar, and nailed down the second finishing spot. Claar settled for third, with Mark Shope and Rick Potter finishing fourth and fifth.

Next up for the Speedway is the Renegade DirtCar Racing Series on Friday, April 25th. Formerly known as the S.T.A.R.S., the Renegade's will bring some of the best racers on the East Coast to Bedford Speedway. This is the first of two stops for the touring series, and their first race of the year since traveling north from Florida earlier this year. Sharing the spotlight will be the Street Stock division.

NAPA/INTERCHANGE EMERGENCY SERVICES SUPER LATE MODELS - 23 Cars

FEATURE: ROB BLAIR, Ron Delano, Jr., Wayne Johnson, Scott Haus, Scott Rhodes, Eric Zembower, Steve Everhart, Devin Friese, Jack Pencil, Shane Beegle, Dave Troutman, Dion LaSalle, Bobby Stokes, Chuck LaSalle, Nick Dickson, Andy Martz, Andy Fries (DNF), Chris Harr (DNF), Rodney Sweitzer (DNF), Greg Fetters (DNF), Rick Singleton (DNF), Jeff Miller (DNF), Mike Altobelli (DNF)

Heat 1: Pencil, Zembower, Blair
Heat 2: Haus, Johnson, Everhart
Heat 3: Friese, Troutman, Delano, Jr.

LIMITED LATE MODELS - 17 cars

FEATURE: BRIAN DUFFY, John Hedge, Robbie Black, Colby Frye, Craig Perigo, Don Hedge, Justin Kann, Matt Parks, Kirk Baker, Tim Cogan, Scott McCann (DNF), Rance Garlock (DNF), Kevin Weyandt (DNF), Mike Altobelli, Jr. (DNF), Shawn Claar (DNF), Bill Burns (DNF), Jim Leidy (DNS)

Heat 1: McCann, Weyandt, Duffy
Heat 2: Altobelli, Jr., Garlock, Frye

STREET STOCKS - 12 cars

FEATURE: KERRY MOLOVICH, Daniel Cornman, George Beckett, Troy Aikey, John Whitfield, Matt Emerick, Willie Ling, Bill Kennell, Travis Calhoun, Bob Jay (DNF), JR Bowers (DNF), Bill Stiffler (DNS)

Heat 1: Cornman, Jay, Beckett
Heat 2: Molovich, Aikey, Whitfield

HOBBY/CRUISERS - 20 cars

FEATURE: SHAWN WYLES, Greg Hainsey, Ken Claar, Jr., Mark Shope, Rick Potter, Ray Shephard, Clay Logdson, Jr., Mike Siegele, Tom Warren, Matt Mellott, Joe Moyer, John Martin, Lincoln Ritchey, Terry Wagner, Daren Desch, Rodney Hoagland (DNS), Brad Karns (DNS), Ruggie Guyer(DNS), Daryl Ritchey (DNS), Howie Bussard (DNS)

Heat 1: Shope, Claar, Jr., Martin
Heat 2: Warren, Hainsey, Potter
Heat 3: Wyles, L. Ritchey, Bussard

Jack Pencil, Bedford Speedway's 2002 Late Model Track Champion.	Hamburg, Pa's Scott Haus - Bedford Speedway's all-time leading late model feature winner.

BEDFORD SPEEDWAY PREPARES FOR APRIL OPENER

(Bedford, Pa) As area race teams prepare for the upcoming 2003 racing season, The Bedford Speedway, under the promotion of D.K.M. Racing, plans to build on the success of the 2002 season.

The excitement starts with a practice night on Friday, April 4th. The weekly Friday night racing season begins on April 11th, with Super Late Model, Limited Late Model, Street Stock, and Cruiser/Hobby divisions circling the big Bedford 5/8 mile oval.

The 700 horsepower Super Late Models will once again be the headline division and leading the way will be the 2002 Bedford Speedway and M.A.C.S. champion Jack Pencil, of Bedford. Those expected to return to challenge Pencil include last year's feature winners Scott Haus of Hamburg, Dave Kepner of Port Royal, Scott Rhodes of Somerset, Eric Zembower of Bedford and Shane Beegle of Everett. Veteran drivers Rodney Sweitzer of Stoystown, Larry Wright of Claysburg and Hesston's Rick Singleton are also expected to return, along with a host of talented area drivers.

The 2003 Super Late Model rookie class will include two drivers from well known Bedford County racing families. Chuck LaSalle from Breezewood in the #37 and Andy Martz from Bedford in the famous Martz Chassis #M1. LaSalle has been a fixture at Bedford and other area speedways since 1978, and had accumulated many feature wins in various racing divisions in his 25-year career. Martz has moved up from the Econo-Modified and Limited Late Model divisions, and is the son of noted chassis builder and driver, Gary Martz. The elder Martz notched 50 Super Late Model wins from 1972 until his retirement in 1982.

Special events for the Super Late Models include the Bob Sweitzer Memorial on May 9th, a 35 lap Memorial Day Championship on May 23rd and the Labor Day 55 Lap Classic on August 31st. The Renegade Dirt Car Series returns after a one year absence with a $7,000.00 to win 4th of July Firecraker Special.

The popular Central Pennsylvania 410 Winged Super Sprints led by Mifflintown's, Keith Kauffman, will invade the Bedford Speedway on Tuesday night, June 10th with the annual Pa Posse Invitational. Kauffman's performance in last year's event, which will go down as one of the best comebacks in Bedford history, should insure a standing room only crowd. Those drivers expected to challenge Kauffman include Fred Rahmer, Todd Hestor, Lance Dewease, Mike Wagner, Dan Shetler and others from both central and western Pennsylvania.

Special events for the Limiteds, Street Stocks and Cruisers will dot the schedule throughout the year.

The Limited Late Model division appears to have gained the most drivers and cars for the new year. Street Stock Champion Brian Duffy of Bedford will be a contender for the Limited Rookie of the Year title. Other new rookie Limited drivers will include Stoystown's Craig Perigo and New Enterprise veteran driver Jim Leidy.

Other events will include the annual Bedford County Fair Stock Car Championships in August, the Walt Aikey Memorial race, the second annual Bedford SpeedwayLegends night plus Kids bike races and Kids Race Car Ride Night.

Three new special events for 2002 include Mechanics Night, 70's Night and the return after a 21-year absence, Ladies Powder Puff races.

70's Night will feature the return of some of the famous drivers from the 1970's era for a special match race.

Track crews will continue track surface improvements as weather permits and new concession stands will be completed before opening day. General admission will remain at $8.00 for regular 4 division show, and the website has been improved to provide a wide variety of facts and information.

Any questions can be addressed by calling the speedway office at 814-623-0500 or via the web at www.bedfordspeedway.com

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