Oval Racing Stock car style in Québec, Ontario and New England States

2025-05-13

Free Grandstand Admission for 2025 Peterborough Speedway Opener

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

Some words in the English language stand-up well on their own. "Free" will always be one of them. Saturday, May 17th spectator grandstand general admission passes are free at Peterborough Speedway.

KX 105.1 New Country presents the 2025 season opener with the home track Battlefield Equipment Rental Bone Stock, SwitchTire Mini Stock, Trent Lakes Complete Plumbing Renegade Truck, Jiffy Lube Super Stock and KOD Disposal Late Model fields, plus the Trailers Plus Ontario Legend Car Series. Gates open at 3:00, with the first Great Canadian RV green flag at 5:00.

Come early and enjoy live music with Peterborough's own Ty Wilson – a 2024 Reader's Choice 'Diamond Award Winner' as best local musician or band and 'Male Vocalist of the Year' at the Texas Sounds International Country Music Awards – starting at 3:30. You can also meet the opening night's drivers during the trackside autograph session at intermission.

"Opening night has always been our biggest event of the year and we're thankful to everyone who helps put it all together," said Peterborough Speedway track owner and promoter J.P. Josiasse. "From the marketing and promotional staff, the social media team, to sponsors and officials. The total effort from everyone who works behind the scenes to get everything ready for a new season makes the facility ready for when the first fans roll through the gates."

Josiasse says that when they arrive for the season's first show, they'll notice some changes at their favourite weekly racing facility. One thing that will never change is Peterborough Speedway's ongoing commitment to providing the best track food choices in the business. Their selection of pub grub is second-to-none and includes locally grown, fresh-cut fries. The recent addition of the Turn 4 Beer Garden for those of legal drinking age completes the package.

Be on hand for the Saturday, May 17th season opener and be part of a stretch of 16 straight Saturday nights of exciting hometown motorsports action. For the latest news, information and schedule details, be sure to head to www.peterboroughspeedway.com and the track's social media platforms and pages for everything you'll need to know for another year of Making Memories for Life.

Photo attachment: Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications/Frist Draft Media

Catch the action the with the Trent Lakes Complete Plumbing Renegade Trucks during the 2025 Season Opener – Saturday, May 17th – at Peterborough Speedway.

Teams with the Trailers Plus Ontario Legend Car Series will be part of the 2025 Season Opener – Saturday, May 17th – at Peterborough Speedway.

Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

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2025-05-08

NASCAR and TelevisaUnivision Announce Landmark Broadcast Partnership

NASCAR and TelevisaUnivision Announce Landmark Broadcast Partnership

TelevisaUnivision to serve as exclusive free-to-air broadcaster in Mexico for 2025 NASCAR Cup Series race in Mexico City on Sunday, June 15

Agreement includes weekly highlight rights on TelevisaUnivision platforms for the entirety of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season

May 8, 2025 – The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, LLC ("NASCAR") and TelevisaUnivision, Mexico's leading media company, today announced an exclusive broadcast agreement for free-to-air coverage of the sanctioning body's Mexico City race.

Under this new agreement, TelevisaUnivision will serve as the exclusive free-to-air (FTA) broadcaster in Mexico for the highly anticipated 2025 NASCAR Cup Series race in Mexico City, scheduled for Sunday, June 15 at 3 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. local time. The race will be broadcast live on TelevisaUnivision's 'Canal 5' with full spanish-language commentary.

In addition to live race coverage, TelevisaUnivision will also deliver weekly NASCAR highlights, including 52-minute race cutdowns and short-form clips from the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season. These will be distributed across TelevisaUnivision's linear and digital platforms, including ViX, its streaming service and official social media channels.

"We are thrilled to partner with TelevisaUnivision to bring the NASCAR Cup Series to passionate sports fans in Mexico," said Nicholas Skipper, NASCAR Managing Director, Media Strategy. "The upcoming race in Mexico City is a significant milestone for our company, and this agreement reflects our commitment to providing the most comprehensive coverage of the event, as we continue to grow our sport internationally."

Marco Liceaga, TelevisaUnivision Senior Vice President of Sports Rights Acquisitions and Commercial Partnerships, stated: "We are delighted to partner with NASCAR to bring fans of the motorsports world in Mexico closer to the Mexico City race, the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series, its teams and drivers. The above demonstrates TelevisaUnivision's commitment to continuing to have the most robust sports portfolio, for the benefit of our audiences and commercial partners".

TelevisaUnivision will also provide robust marketing and promotional support for the Mexico City race to help build excitement for the event.

About TelevisaUnivision

TelevisaUnivision is the world's leading Spanish-language media company. Powered by the largest library of owned Spanish-language content and a prolific production capability, TelevisaUnivision is the top producer of original content in Spanish across news, sports and entertainment verticals. This original content powers all of TelevisaUnivision's platforms, which include market-leading broadcast networks Univision, Las Estrellas, Canal 5 and UniMás, and a portfolio of 38 cable networks, which include TUDN, Galavisión, Distrito Comedia and TL Novelas. The company also operates the leading Mexican movie studio, Videocine, and owns and operates the largest Spanish-language audio platform in the U.S. across 35 terrestrial stations and the Uforia digital platform. TelevisaUnivision is also the owner of ViX, the largest Spanish-language streaming platform in the world.

For more information, please visit televisaunivision.com.

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 14 of the nation's major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Euro Series, NASCAR Mexico Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.

For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X and Facebook.

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2025-04-28

There is No Place Like Local Racing for Paul Donnelly

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

Hometown racers make a special contribution to the sport. Their combination of dedication and determination makes them winners before ever turning a lap on the track.

After beginning his motorsports career as a crew member for several different dirt and pavement racers, Mallorytown, Ontario's Paul Donnelly switched his racing focus to the other side of the starting line-up. He made his first start in the Novice Sportsman field at Brockville Ontario Speedway. Despite getting a later start than some of his competition, Donnelly still managed to score 4 qualifying event checkered flags and a trio of feature race wins before making the switch to the Sportsman-Modified division during the 2024 season.

"I learned so much while working on cars driven by George Herbison, Paul Pekkonen and former Brockville Speedway Sportsman-Modified and Pro Stock champion Chris Herbison over the years, it really made me want to put together a deal of my own," said Paul Donnelly. "Because I hadn't been playing hockey and the other sports I loved because of the pandemic, I was able to round-up some funds and a few years ago, purchased a car Jarrett Herbison had in his shop and Black Cat Motorsports – named after my cat Leroy – was born."

While the initial laps of his hometown racing tenure were spent at the controls of a No. 9 machine, as a fan of dirt track racing legend Bob McCreadie, Donnelly switched to the No. 98D that he still uses today after the untimely 2022 passing of his good friend Paul Pekkonen. Competing in only 5 feature events, the 49-year-old racer was 21st out of nearly 40 Sportsman-Modified runners. He finished 9th in the 2024 Novice Sportsman standings.

"Whether helping out behind the scenes on someone else's equipment or running my own stuff on a weekly basis, its easy to understand what makes racing such a popular sport," said the father of 2, who works as a dispatcher at Shouldice Trucking. "I've been lucky to make some new friends. I love the family aspect of local racing, especially the way everyone steps in to help without a minute of hesitation."

Even with the new schedule just around the corner, Donnelly still hasn't confirmed his plans for the 2025 season. Because of some recently diagnosed health issues, he may be faced with a decision to focus on some of the spotlight events on Brockville Ontario Speedway's upcoming line-up, including the Ogilvie's Triple Crown Series dates and the annual Northeast Fall Nationals.

Paul Donnelly's No. 98D Sportsman-Modified is proudly supported by Hodge's Flooring, Deluxe Auto Glass & Trim, Larry's Auto Works and Plooy's Plumbing. In the shop and at the track, crew members Pete Stapper, Ezzy Waterworth and the driver himself get the car ready for battle.

Stay up to date with Paul Donnelly at the track or like and follow Black Cat Motorsports on Facebook.

Photo attachment: Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

Mallorytown, Ontario DIRTcar Sportsman-Modified racer Paul Donnelly (No. 98D) is making plans for the upcoming 2025 schedule at Brockville Ontario Speedway.

Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

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2025-04-23

NASCAR, North Wilkesboro Speedway Announce 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race Format

NASCAR, North Wilkesboro Speedway Announce

2025 NASCAR All-Star Race Format

Manufacturer Showdown, Promoter's Caution, Extended Race, New Pit Crew Challenge Eligibility Among Fresh Format Elements

NASCAR, North Wilkesboro Speedway Announce

2025 NASCAR All-Star Race Format

Manufacturer Showdown, Promoter's Caution, Extended Race, New Pit Crew Challenge Eligibility Among Fresh Format Elements

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (April 23, 2024) – NASCAR and Speedway Motorsports today announced details for the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race to be held on Sunday, May 18, for the third consecutive year at iconic North Wilkesboro Speedway. This season's format will again feature two heat races to set the All-Star Race starting lineup and a 100-lap All-Star Open, plus an extended 250-lap main event. In addition to a longer All-Star Race, several new aspects will debut including a Manufacturer Showdown, a Promoter's Caution, modifications to Open qualifying, and Pit Crew Challenge eligibility. All eyes will be on the stars of the sport as they take on these new elements at the historic .625-mile track in the annual exhibition.

The signature new element in this season's format shines a spotlight on the manufacturers, as drivers take on the Manufacturer Showdown. Manufacturer teams (Chevrolet, Ford, Toyota) will be equally represented. The members per team will be determined by the least represented manufacturer and an equal number of drivers from the other two manufacturers will be selected based on their final All-Star grid starting positions. Teams will be scored against each other and not by their overall All-Star finish. The lowest combined total of finishing positions will be the winning manufacturer. In the event of a tie, the single best overall finishing position will determine the winner.

"The NASCAR All-Star Race continues to evolve as one of the most fun and innovative events on our calendar," said Executive Vice President and Chief Racing Development Officer, John Probst. "Returning to historic North Wilkesboro Speedway for the third year in a row allows us to honor our sport's roots while pushing the envelope with fresh competitive elements. The introduction of the Manufacturer Showdown brings a new layer of intensity and pride for our OEM partners, and fans can expect even more strategy, teamwork, and drama on race day."

The NASCAR All-Star Race will be 250 laps with a competition break at or near lap100 and an optional Promoter's Caution that must be executed prior to lap 220. If the Promoter's Caution has not yet occurred and a natural caution flag falls after lap 200, the optional caution will no longer be in play. This new twist adds an element of unpredictability and excitement as teams try to prepare for when – or even if – the Promoter's Caution may occur.

Saturday's All-Star Open will give drivers who are not guaranteed a spot in the main event a chance to lock into the All-Star Race. The 100-lap Open will have a competition break at or near lap 40 and will not only determine which drivers advance to the main event but could also change the number of drivers eligible from each manufacturer for the Manufacturer Showdown. The three Open drivers who will advance to the All-Star Race are the top two race finishers and the Fan Vote Winner. NASCAR All-Star Race fan voting is now open on NASCAR.com/fanvote.

"In the 40-year history of the All-Star Race there has never been so much on-track action across the entire event week," said Jessica Fickenscher, executive director of the NASCAR All-Star Race. "And with so much competition--from the pit crews to the manufacturers to the race teams and drivers--the biggest All-Star winners will be the fans with all they get to see at what's become America's throwback racetrack, North Wilkesboro Speedway. The entire week is truly the most jam-packed entertainment value in all of motorsports."

All-Star weekend festivities will begin on All-Star Friday presented by Raymer Oil with a combined All-Star/Open qualifying and Pit Crew Challenge presented by Mechanix Wear. New this season, Open and All-Star qualifying will be combined, and pit crews of all teams entered (All-Star and Open) are eligible for the pit crew challenge. Open cars will go first, and results will determine the lineup for the Open. All-Star cars will follow to set the lineups for the heat races. This format will again bring together traditional qualifying with the Pit Crew Challenge. Drivers will take the green flag, run one full lap at speed, and on the second lap proceed to one of two NASCAR-designated pit stalls for a four-tire stop (no fuel). When the pit stop is complete, the cars will exit pit road and race back to the checkered flag. Qualifying time will be the total elapsed time from green flag to checkered flag, and the pole sitter will start on the pole for Heat Race 1 and the All-Star.

The pit crew with the fastest stop during the All-Star qualifying attempt (no penalties) is the winner of the Pit Crew Challenge. Timing lines are established one box behind and one box ahead of the NASCAR designated pit stop boxes. Pit Crew Challenge results will determine pit-picking order.

Saturday night will feature two 60-lap heat races that will determine the starting lineup for the All-Star Race among drivers already locked into the field. The results of Heat 1 will establish the inside row, and the results of Heat 2 will establish the outside row. The action-packed weekend will conclude Sunday night with the All-Star Open and All-Star Race.

Drivers eligible for the NASCAR All-Star Race include those who've won a points event in either 2024 or 2025, drivers who've won a NASCAR All-Star Race and compete fulltime, and drivers who've won a NASCAR Cup Series championship and compete fulltime.

Drivers already locked in the All-Star Race include: William Byron, Daniel Suárez, Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell, Denny Hamlin, Chase Elliott, Tyler Reddick, Brad Keselowski, Joey Logano, Austin Cindric, Ryan Blaney, Alex Bowman, Austin Dillon, Harrison Burton, Chase Briscoe, Chris Buescher, Ross Chastain, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Josh Berry, and Kyle Busch.

The NASCAR All-Star Race will air live on FS1, MRN Radio and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, with coverage beginning at 5:00 p.m. ET on Sunday, May 18.

In addition to all the NASCAR Cup Series activity, fans can enjoy zMAX CARS Tour feature races both Thursday (The Reverend Whiskey 75) and Friday (Late Model Stock Cars) nights, along with the Window World 250 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race and a Jake Owen concert presented by Raymer Oil on the frontstretch Saturday. Sunday's on-track action begins with a NASCAR Whelen Modified Series race preceding the All-Star Open and All-Star Race. May 15-18 NASCAR All-Star Race Week ticket packages including eight races, the Pit Crew Challenge, Jake Owen concert and all NASCAR qualifying sessions start at just $130. Race week packages or individual event day tickets and camping can be purchased online at www.northwilkesborospeedway.com.

Fans can connect with North Wilkesboro Speedway and get the latest news regarding NASCAR All-Star week and North Wilkesboro Speedway by following on Twitter and Instagram or becoming a Facebook fan.

About NASCAR

Contact:

Samantha Zarek

NASCAR Communications

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Peterborough Speedway 2025 Season Goes Green Saturday, May 17th

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

The news Central Ontario race fans have been waiting for is coming up fast. Peterborough Speedway will roll-out its 2025 line-up with the Pure Country 105 Season Opener – featuring free spectator grandstand admission – Saturday, May 17th.

Round one in the regular season stretch of 16 straight Saturday nights of local racing includes the best of the home track Bone Stock, Mini Stock, Renegade Truck, Super Stock and Late Model divisions, plus the Ontario Legend Car Series. Opening night also features a driver autograph session at half time. Track owner and promoter J.P. Josiasse says the countdown is on 'til the new calendar kick-off.

"Our staff, officials and fans are all excited about rolling out the red carpet for the season opener," explained Josiasse. "The annual lid-lifter has traditionally been one of our biggest dates of the year and our team can't wait for everyone to see what we have in store for this year. Even with the changes we've made around the facility, our commitment for providing great value for your family motorsports entertainment investment remains unchanged."

From the year's first laps, Peterborough Speedway continues to build on its reputation of Making Memories for Life. In addition to the weekly divisions, the track's schedule will also include a wide variety of special guest touring classes – including what has become an annual double-dip with the APC Late Models and the opening round of action for the Dayco Super Stock group – Saturday, June 14th.

Staff is also pleased to report that the Double Toonie Fan Appreciation Nights – presented by Pepsi – will continue this year. Spectator grandstand admission will be just $ 4.00 Saturday, June 7th and 28th, along with August 16th. Each night of racing will include a trackside driver autograph session at intermission.

Bullring bullet points: Fans can enjoy a sneak peak at the hometown motorsports season as Peterborough Speedway presents its annual preview event April 27th to May 4th at Lindsay Square Mall. For full information, see www.lindsaysquare.ca... Racers looking to shake-down their equipment and log some track time before the initial Great Canadian RV green flag can take advantage of a pair of pre-season test sessions. Cars will be on the track Saturday, May 10th from 11:00 'til 4:00 and again Thursday, May 15th from 4:00 to dusk.

For the latest track news, information and 2025 schedule details, check www.peterboroughspeedway.com or the venue's social media platforms and pages.

Photo attachment: Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

Ryan Kimball (No. 16) will be looking to lay foundation for another KOD Disposal Late Model track championship when the 2025 season opens – Saturday, May 17th – at Peterborough Speedway.

2024 Jiffy Lube Super Stock runners Clayton Reed (No. 21R) and Donovan Price (No. 96) will be back at the track this year – starting Saturday, May 17th – at Peterborough Speedway.

Wyatt Beatty (No. 68) and Jacob Vandebelt (No. 70) will return for another season of racing – including the Saturday, July 5th SPS Junior Late Model Rumble – at Peterborough Speedway.

Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

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2025-04-21

NASCAR Announces Nominees For NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2026, Landmark Award

NASCAR Announces Nominees

For NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2026, Landmark Award

Busch and LaJoie join ballot for the first time; Wheeler up for Landmark nod

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (April 21, 2025) — NASCAR today announced the 15 nominees for the NASCAR Hall of Fame's Class of 2026 and the five nominees for the Landmark Award for Outstanding Contributions to NASCAR.

Kurt Busch, the 2004 NASCAR Cup Series champion, joins the Modern Era ballot for the first time, alongside Randy LaJoie, a two-time champion in what is now known as the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Additionally, Jake Elder, a three-time NASCAR Cup Series championship crew chief, returns to the Pioneer ballot.

Ten nominees appear on the Modern Era ballot, five on the Pioneer ballot – designed to honor those whose careers began more than 60 years ago. Two Modern Era candidates and one Pioneer candidate will be elected as the Class of 2026.

The Landmark Award honors those who made significant contributions to the growth and esteem of NASCAR. Former President and General Manager of Charlotte Motor Speedway, Humpy Wheeler, joins the Landmark Award ballot for the first time.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame Voting panel will meet in person to discuss and vote for the Class of 2026 and Landmark Award on Tuesday, May 20. Once again, the fans have a voice in the selection process via the NASCAR.com Fan Vote (www.nascar.com/halloffame). The Fan Vote is currently open and will close on Sunday, May 18 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

The Modern Era Ballot and Landmark Award nominees were selected by the Nomination Committee, which consists of representatives from NASCAR and the NASCAR Hall of Fame, track owners from major facilities and historic short tracks. The Honors Committee, largely comprised of all NASCAR Hall of Famers, Landmark Award winners and Squier-Hall Award winners, selected the Pioneer Ballot.

The following are the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2026 nominees and Landmark Award nominees:

Modern Era Ballot

Greg Biffle, 2000 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champion and 2002 Xfinity Series champion

Neil Bonnett, won 18 times in the NASCAR Cup Series including consecutive Coca-Cola 600 victories

Tim Brewer, two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion crew chief

Jeff Burton, won 21 times in the NASCAR Cup Series including the Southern 500 and two Coca-Cola 600s

Kurt Busch, 2004 NASCAR Cup Series champion and 2017 DAYTONA 500 winner

Randy Dorton, built engines that won over nine championships across NASCAR's national series

Harry Gant, winner of 18 NASCAR Cup Series races, including two Southern 500 victories

Harry Hyde, 1970 NASCAR Cup Series championship crew chief

Randy LaJoie, two-time Xfinity Series champion and 1985 North Series champion

Jack Sprague, three-time NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champion

Pioneer Ballot

Jake Elder, three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion crew chief, including the DAYTONA 500 and two Southern 500s

Ray Hendrick, won over 700 times in NASCAR Modified and Late Model Sportsman

Banjo Matthews, built cars that won more than 250 NASCAR Cup Series races and three championships

Larry Phillips, first five-time NASCAR weekly series national champion

Bob Welborn, winner of nine NASCAR Cup Series races and three Convertible Division championships

Landmark Award

Alvin Hawkins, NASCAR's first flagman; established NASCAR racing at Bowman Gray Stadium with Bill France Sr.

Lesa France Kennedy, NASCAR Executive Vice Chair and one of the most influential women in sports

Dr. Joseph Mattioli, founder of Pocono Raceway

Les Richter, long-time NASCAR executive oversaw competition, helped grow the sport on the West Coast

Humpy Wheeler, former President and General Manager of Charlotte Motor Speedway, transformed the venue into a world-class facility

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Madie Wallace Looks at 2025 as Her Bounce-Back Racing Season

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

Local short track racing can be a game of inches. A matter of give and take at the right time can make or break a driver's season.

With a new schedule of action at Brockville Ontario Speedway just a few weeks away, Madie Wallace is looking forward to getting back into battle for the new year. The 19-year-old from Munster, Ontario ran only a handful of races during the 2024 season before a crash ended her run and left her with a broken rib and a concussion.

Wallace – whose boyfriend Kalen Draper scored a 2024 season-ending 358 Modified win at Brockville Speedway – has put together an active schedule for the 2025 season. She'll campaign her No. 17M Sportsman-Modified weekly at Brockville, while committing to a part-time Sunday night program at Cornwall Motor Speedway. In addition to returning to the Sportsman ranks, Madie Wallace will also run Wednesday nights in the Senior Stock karting program and plans a limited schedule in the same class Tuesday nights at Cornwall.

"I'm looking forward to getting as much seat time as possible this year," said Wallace, who has been working on a dairy farm while taking a year off between finishing high school and starting her post-secondary education. "I've always enjoyed being at the track, but having to sit-out most of last year wasn't much fun. It was great to spend some time with Kalen, but I really wanted to be in the car."

Now that she's recovered from last year's injuries, been given a clear bill of health and the go-ahead to resume racing, Madie Wallace – who enjoys hockey, farming, baseball and fishing in her time away from the racetrack – is ready for the initial green flag of the 2025 schedule. After posting some impressive stats during her Karting and Novice Sportsman runs, the team is ready for its first full season in the Sportsman-Modified field. Thanks to the support crew of her parents, grandfathers Dave Wallace and Ron Ridge, uncle Bruce Wallace, brother Trent Wallace and her boyfriend Kalen Draper, they're all set to go.

The No. 17M Sportsman program is proudly supported by Brendave Plumbing, Fat Les's Chip Stand, Draper Doors, Crawford Sheds Inc., FFS, www.motortrendsonline.ca, Perkins Lumber, VW Restoration, Marlborough Pub & Eatery, Ottawa Prime Developments, JMP Hay Services & Brokering and Turn 3 Media.

Family, friends and fans can follow Madie Wallace during the 2025 season at the track or through her personal Facebook page.

Photo attachment: Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

After an injury kept her sidelined for most of last year's schedule, Munster, Ontario's Madie Wallace (No. 17M) is looking forward to kicking-off the 2025 DIRTcar Sportsman-Modified season.

Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

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Counting Down to the 2025 Season Opener at Peterborough Speedway

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

Central Ontario race fans are getting ready for another exciting season of action at Peterborough Speedway.

This year's inaugural Great Canadian RV green flag is slated for Saturday, May 17th as part of the Pure Country 105 Season Opener, featuring free spectator grandstand admission and a driver autograph session midway through the program. Track owner and promoter J.P. Josiasse says this event is the perfect way to launch the new line-up.

"Our crowd for the opening night has traditionally been one of the biggest of the entire season," said Josiasse. "Everyone is excited to have a first look at the new cars and get back to the track for a night of family entertainment after another long winter."

From a Junior Late Model runner making their first career start, to a multi-time KOD Disposal Late Model track champion in search of another title, every lap turned at Peterborough Speedway builds on a motorsports legacy spanning more 55 years. The home track Battlefield Equipment Rental Bone Stocks will have a 50 lap Shootout Saturday, June 14th in conjunction with the 50 lap Dayco Super Stock and 100 lap APC Late Model tour events.

SwitchTire Mini Stock teams have a 50 lap Shootout scheduled for the Cottage Country Bash – Saturday, August 2nd – with the Bone Stocks, Junior Late Models and Late Models. Full 2025 schedule details are available now at on the track's website and social media channels.

In addition to the great weekly racing, track officials are happy to announce that the Double Toonie/Fan Appreciation Nights – presented by Pepsi – will return for this year's line-up. On Saturday, June 7th, 28th and August 16th you'll see a full night of excitement, with an on-track driver autograph session at intermission for only $ 4.00.

Bullring bullet points: Peterborough Speedway will host a pair of pre-season practice sessions to give teams a chance to get their equipment ready before the year's inaugural green flag. The first shakedown round has been booked for Saturday, May 10th from 11:00 to 4:00, with another test and tune planned for Thursday, May 15th from 4:00 'til dusk…Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 5th and the home track date for the inaugural SPS Junior Late Model Rumble.

Be sure to check www.peterboroughspeedway.com or the track's social media channels and pages for the latest news, information and details on the 2025 schedule.

Photo attachment: Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

Paige Stevenson (No. 77) and Christen Lavalle in 2024 action. Battlefield Equipment Rental Bone Stock teams will run a 50-lap main event – Saturday, June 14th – at Peterborough Speedway.

Mark Downer (No. 26) battles Kyle McCaughley in the 2024 season. Catch the SwitchTire Mini Stock 50-lap feature tilt – Saturday, August 2nd – at Peterborough Speedway.

Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

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Melcolm Banks is the Next Generation of a Family Racing Operation

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

A bright future is waiting for the next group of talented young racers.

After making his start in the karting ranks in 2017 at age 5, Melcolm Banks moved to the Novice Sportsman ranks at Brockville Ontario Speedway in 2023. Under the tutelage and guidance of his father Joseph – himself a 3rd generation racer and multiple DIRTcar 358 Modified feature winner – the youngster gained experience and developed his skills on the way to becoming the youngest main event winner in the track's history – at age 12 – with his Saturday, August 10th checkered flag. Banks also finished 2nd in the point standings for the 2nd straight season.

Despite his youth, Melcolm Banks is part of deep provincial motorsports lineage. His great uncles Ed and Ab Banks were regulars at tracks in Eastern Ontario, while his grandfather Pernie followed their path into the weekly racing ranks at Brockville Speedway. His father took the next step in the family's pursuit of checkered flags, competing in the Mini Stock and eventually Small Block Modified ranks.

Heading into the 2025 season, the 8th grader at Rideau District High School in Elgin will move-up to the Sportsman-Modified division at 'The BOS'. While he hasn't set any immediate goals for his transition to the new class, Melcolm Banks says he's looking forward to getting some additional seat time and maybe travel to some different tracks before ultimately moving up to a 358 modified ride.

"Every time I get into the car, it is like the first day of school. There is so much to learn. I really like the way the conditions change and the challenges are different each we roll onto the track," said the young driver. "I'd like to thank my family for everything they've done to give me this opportunity and all of my friends and fans for their encouragement at the track and behind the scenes."

The No. M75 Banks Racing Team would like to thank their marketing partners including Kason Farms, Dirt Outlaw Apparel, D & J Transportation, Herlehy Home Hardware, A1 Siding, CHE – Cylinder Head Engineering, French's Trucking, Welch's Drywall, Milk – Leeds County Dairy Producer, Hewitt's Livestock, Willard's Bakery, Levac Propane and Willows Agri Services for their continued support.

At home in the shop and at the track, Melcolm Banks counts on Joe Banks, Pernie Banks, Tyler Hazelaar, Paige Banks, Cynthia Banks and Mila Banks to set-up the car each week and make sure it is ready to chase the next checkered flag.

Follow the No. M75 team in weekly action at Brockville Ontario Speedway and through the Banks Racing social media channels on Facebook and Tik Tok.

Photo attachment: Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

After back-to-back Novice Sportsman point finishes, 13-year-old Melcolm Banks (No. M75) of Portland, Ontario will move to the Sportsman-Modified field for Brockville Ontario Speedway's 2025 season.

Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

clarkemotorsports@hotmail.com, www.facebook.com/clarkemotrsports

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Airborne Park Speedway Schedule Set for 71st Yea

PLATTSBURGH, Ny. -- The roar of engines will once again fill the North Country air this summer with another year of racing set to take place in Plattsburgh. The 2025 schedule is now out and only a short six weeks remain until the season opener.

Opening day is set for Sunday, April 13 at 2:00PM. The 358 modifieds, sportsman modifieds, renegades and mini stocks will be joined by the limited sportsman and the new crown vic division, which made its Airborne Park Speedway debut during last year's championship weekend. Saturday, April 19, will be the second race of 2025. The Sprint Cars of New England will be in town for the first of two appearances at Airborne Park in 2025.

May holds a pair of monster events back-to-back, as the DIRTcar 358 modified tour blows into town, bringing the DIRTcar sportsman eastern region tour with it on Thursday, May 22. Just a week later, the Short Track Super Series modifieds will be back for the second annual "Adirondack Invasion," which last year was won by Anthony Perrego driving Bob Hentschel's car No. 4.

June brings back topless night on Saturday, June 14 where the sportsman will run without roofs, allowing the fans to get a better view of the drivers at work. Additionally, the Mohawk Valley Vintage Dirt Modifieds will be on the card as well as the visiting pro stocks and the season first enduro, with a full complement of other regular classes. The following week brings a Wednesday night race on June 18.

July kicks off with the Independence Day special on Thursday, July 3 featuring one of the biggest and brightest displays of fireworks in the entire North Country, as well as another pro stock race and another enduro. July 10 is an off week, with racing resuming on Thursday, July 17 with a full card plus kids' bike races.

August's highlights include "Make a Wish" night on Saturday, August 9, featuring the Sprint Cars of New England plus pro stocks and all the regular divisions, minus the 358 modifieds. August 21 is the Vermont 200 qualifier for the sportsman, with the feature winner earning a guaranteed starting spot in the biggest crate sportsman race anywhere, the Labor Day Weekend Vermont 200 at Devil's Bowl. Airborne Park celebrates the kids going back to school with another Wednesday night special on August 27 with the popular backpack giveaway, before the late summer heat gives way to September.

In the final month of racing for 2025, the Canadian Big Block Series comes to town on Sunday, September 7, with another Sunday special on September 14, with the final day of points for the 358 modifieds. Sunday, September 21 is a built-in rain date only to be used if needed, and the championship weekend returns on September 28 and 29, with a 50-lap championship feature for the sportsman paying $5,000 to the winner, along with pro stocks, mini sprints, renegades, limited sportsman, crown vics and a 50-lap, $1,000-to-win enduro. It is the most racing packed into two days you'll find anywhere!

Last year saw the return of Mike and Alayne Bruno to the Speedway as promoters since 2015 during the last pavement era and their first year back was full of excitement and great racing. Elizabethtown's Mike Mahaney, a North Country transplant originally from New York's southern tier, earned the 358 modified championship in a close battle with dirt-track legend Tim Fuller. Canadian driver Donovan Lussier won the sportsman modified title in his first season at Airborne Park, driving in the Boissonneault Racing No. 61. The renegade champion was Shawn Duquette, from Morrisonville, and Ryan Senecal won the mini stock title.

This year, the regular addition of the limited sportsman is expected to foster growth in the sport, giving drivers a chance to move up into an open-wheel car in a more user-friendly environment than a direct jump into the ultra-competitive sportsman modified class.

The full schedule is available online at https://www.airborneparkspeedwayny.com/ or on the MyRacePass app.

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