Young Mike Ordway Jr, just sixteen years old and racing with the North East Midget Association, better known as NEMA. Though this very impressive young man is new to NEMA he is an experienced racer in in the 350 Super Modifieds at Lee Speedway in New Hampshire with 3 second place finishes and placing 9th in points.

Perhaps racing is in the genes (not the dungaree type). Mikes Dad, Mike Sr., races Super Modifieds so young Mike grew up in the auto racing world. His most memorable race at this point iwas in Super Modifieds the first time he raced against his Dad. He really wanted to pass him and he did catch up to him but spun out and finished 6th while his Dad finished 3rd. Still a student, Mike Jr loves fast cars and the sport of racing. He does admit that he needs to learn to be patient.

Mike Jr races #99 with NEMA. His Crew Chief and part owner is John Keane. Chris Derosher, Mike Ordway Sr, Ed Page, Larry Jefferson and Jason Philips make up the team for the #99. From Fremont New Hampshire Mike Jr is a driver to watch on his way up to The CUP.

The Mini Stock Division is a solid group of cars and drivers at “The Bowl” (Waterford Speedbowl) with great side-by-side racing in the 4-cylinder Mustangs. Amongst the best-of-the-best and one of the “Good Guys” is Nick Pappacoda and his Mustang Mini Stock #6. Nick travels from North Branford Ct weekly to race at “The Bowl”. His smooth-early-on but competitive style of racing is just part of the strategy to win or place.

Nick is no novice to Mini Stock. Previous to racing at “The Bowl”, he raced the former Riverside Park Speedway. He was greatly influenced by Cheryl Reilly a two-time winner at Riverside who was the greatest influence of Nick getting into racing in the first place. One of Cheryl’s favorite sayings was “Everyone has a right to be out there” and that has stuck with Nick throughout his racing career.

Tight track friends and the challenge of racing has kept Nick in the sport. He wins some, places in some and is currently 12th in points, going towards #1t. His friends and family are his team. I recently witnessed a fellow race competitor coming to Nick asking for advice he said “I am coming to the best.” I think that says it all. His spirit is apparent as you look at the patriotic red, white and blue #6 Mustang Mini Stock.