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Dale Cote

NEAR #1ct

Restoring an antique racecar was the greatest challenge for NEAR racecar driver Dale Cote. He basically restored a car that was missing parts, you can’t find original replacements and have difficulty replicating. This eye-catching #1ct antique white racecar with red and blue lettering, has style. Its’ long body and banana shaped roof wing, make it a unique antique. This is Dale’s 6th year in racing and fourth year with New England Antique Racing. He is loving it.

Dale raced Strictly Stock for 2 years in New York State and at Claremont Speedway. His Dad, Peter and brother, both raced Modifieds while Dale was growing up. Racing is a natural for him. Friends got Dale involved with Near. It is a good match, not every weekend and not a lot of cost.

He lives in Connecticut but enjoys racing at Monadnock because it is a small quarter mile track and its banked. The competition is great and you’re with good people, you don’t wreck and the upkeep is minimal. There are firm NEAR track procedure rules much like that of other racing divisions. Drivers must wear helmets and seat belts at all times while on the racing surface and absolutely no person without a valid state drivers license or a person under 16 years of age may drive a car at any Near Inc. event. Overall, NEAR racing is fun. Dale’s Dad, Peter Ballard, is the man of all positions to Dale. He keeps the racecar running and Dale racing.

Photographer/Journalist: Sheila Somers