Whelen Mods Notebook

2007 NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR NOTEBOOK

2007 CHAMPION: DONNIE LIA

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

BUD POLE AWARD: ANTHONY FERRANTE JR.

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

WINNER: BOBBY SANTOS III

MARY HODGE PHOTO

Santos Scores First Career Win

Thompson, Conn. — Twenty-two-year-old Bobby Santos III scored his first career NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour victory at the track he grew up watching racing.

Santos (No. 3 Roby’s Propane/Cape Cod Copper Chevrolet) led 109 laps, including the final 32, in winning the Xtra/Mart 150 at Thompson (Conn.) International Speedway.

“I’ve been coming here since I was a baby,” said Santos, a Franklin, Mass. native. “I started racing at its quarter-midget track next door. … This is the place to (get my first win).”

Reggie Ruggiero (No. 14 Atlantic Sprinkler Chevrolet) finished second, followed by Matt Hirschman (No. 59 Ed Bennett Properties Chevrolet).

“The young guys are coming,” said the 46-year-old Ruggiero of Santos and Hirschman, 24. “It’s just going to happen. But we can still be competitive with them.”

Ted Christopher and Ronnie Silk were fourth and fifth. Kevin Goodale, Ryan Preece, Mike Stefanik, Tony Hischman and Renee Dupuis rounded out the top 10.

Santos ran 11 of the 16 races as rookie of the Whelen Modified Tour this season. He is two days removed from making his fourth NASCAR Busch Series start of the season at Lowe’s Motor Speedway in Charlotte, N.C. for Bill Davis Racing.

It was his win Sunday that put the biggest smile on his face.

“The car was just unbelievable,” Santos said. “We started out free and after the pit stop, it was even better.”

Richard Savary (No. 21 Superior Oil Chevrolet) finished 13th to earn the Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors by one point (96-95) over Bobby Grigas III (No. 09 Triple G Scaffolding Chevrolet). Grigas was 25th in Sunday’s race.

NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR-Xtra/Mart 150 Unofficial Results
Sunday At Thompson International Speedway, Thompson, CT Lap length: 0.625 miles
(Start position in parentheses)
1. (7) Bobby Santos, III, Millis, Mass., Chevrolet, 150 laps, 77.658 mph, $6,950.
2. (25) Reggie Ruggiero, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $3,750.
3. (6) Matt Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Dodge, 150, $3,450.
4. (11) Ted Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $3,150.
5. (12) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $2,824.
6. (30) Kevin Goodale, Riverhead, N.Y., Chevrolet, 150, $3,000.
7. (23) Ryan Preece, Kensington, CT, Chevrolet, 150, $2,800.
8. (26) Mike Stefanik, Coventry, R.I., Chevrolet, 150, $3,050.
9. (8) Tony Hirschman, Jr., Northampton, Penn., Chevrolet, 150, $1,900.
10. (27) Renee Dupuis, Glastonbury, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $1,250.
11. (19) Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater, Mass., Chevrolet, 150, $1,925.
12. (1) Anthony Ferrante, Jr., Franklin Square, N.Y., Chevrolet, 150, $1,800.
13. (21) Richard Savary, Canton, Mass., Chevrolet, 150, $1,875.
14. (20) Rowan Pennink, Huntingdon Valley, Pa., Chevrolet, 150, $1,850.
15. (28) Jamie Tomaino, Howell, N.J., Ford, 150, $1,925.
16. (24) Eric Beers, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 150, $1,775.
17. (16) Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $1,750.
18. (18) Glen Tyler, Hampton Bays, N.Y., Chevrolet, 150, $1,425.
19. (22) Eddie Flemke, Southington, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $1,800.
20. (3) Doug Coby, III, Milford, Conn., 149, accident, $975.
21. (2) Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown, N.J., Dodge, 149, accident, $1,650.
22. (13) Anthony Sesely, Matawan, N.J., Chevrolet, 149, $925.
23. (31) Wade Cole, Riverton, Conn., Chevrolet, 148, $1,625.
24. (33) Rick Fuller, Auburn, Mass., Pontiac, 145, suspension, $1,075.
25. (14) Bobby Grigas, Marshfield, MA, Chevrolet, 144, $1,625.
26. (9) Jimmy Blewett, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 134, drive shaft, $1,725.
27. (5) Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, Conn., Ford, 116, $1,725.
28. (4) Donny Lia, Jericho, N.Y., Dodge, 85, ignition, $1,875.
29. (32) Joe Hartmann, Riverhead, N.Y., Chevrolet, 71, accident, $1,325.
30. (10) Ron Yuhas, Groton, Conn., Chevrolet, 71, accident, $925.
31. (15) Woody Pitkat, Stafford Springs, Conn., Pontiac, 16, carburetor, $1,325.
32. (17) James Civali, Meriden, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, penalty, $1,925.

Race Statistics

Time of Race: 1 hour 12 minutes 26 seconds

Fastest Qualifier: A.Ferrante Jr. (120.656 mph, 18.648 seconds)

Caution Flags: 7 for 35 laps.

Lead Changes: 5 among 4 drivers.

Lap Leaders: A. Ferrante Jr. 1; B. Santos III 2-78; M. Hirschman 79; D. Lia 80-84; M. Hirschman 85-118; B. Santos III 119-150.

Standings: 1. D. Lia, 2471; 2. T. Szegedy, 2291; 3. M. Hirschman, 2260; 4. R. Silk, 2257;
5. T. Christopher, 2187; 6. J. Civali, 2178; 7. M. Stefanik, 2077; 8. J. Blewett, 1883;
9. J. Tomaino, 1872; 10. E. Flemke, 1851.

BUD POLE AWARD: ERIC BEERS

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

WINNER: MIKE STEFANIK

MARY HODGE PHOTO

Lia Clinches First NASCAR Whelen Modifed Tour Title

Stafford, Conn. – Donny Lia’s 2007 season has been so successful, he was able to clinch the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour championship with a race remaining on the schedule.

Lia, with six wins and 11 top fives in 15 races, finished seventh in Sunday’s Fall Final at Stafford (Conn.) Motor Speedway. Combined with Todd Szegedy’s 22nd-place finish, Lia improved his points lead over second-place Szegedy to 183 and earned Lia his first career NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour championship.

“Numb – just feeling numb,” said Lia of his reaction. “I’m just so happy we won the championship for my race team.”

Defending Whelen Modified Tour champion Mike Stefanik won his first race of the season. He led the final 59 laps to finish ahead of runner-up Tony Hirschman and third-place Ted Christopher. Matt Hirschman and Ronnie Silk were fourth and fifth respectively.

Following the race, Stefanik stopped by Lia’s celebration in Victory Lane to congratulate the new champion.
The Whelen Modified Tour finishes its season with the World Series of Speedway Racing Oct. 14 at Thompson (Conn.) International Speedway.

Lia entered Sunday’s race needing a finish of ninth or better to clinch the title by starting the World Series. But when Szegedy spun on lap 97 while running in the top 10, the door opened for Lia to wrap up the title early.
In the process, he earned the first NASCAR Modified title for long-time car owner Bob Garbarino. Garbarino has running a Modified since 1961.

“What makes me so proud is to win the championship for Bob Garbarino,” Lia said. “The guy is just an amazing person.”

Garbarino said it didn’t sink in until he started getting congratulations from some of the people that he’s competed against for years, like fellow car owner Art Barry and Stefanik.

“You start to get that ‘This is really something’ feeling,” Garbarino said. “You start to understand, to really really it.”

NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR - Carquest Fall Final Results

Saturday - At Stafford Motor Speedway - Stafford Springs, CT

Lap length: 0.5 miles

(Start position in parentheses)

1. (14) Mike Stefanik, Coventry, R.I., Chevrolet, 150 laps, 63.395 mph, $8,050.
2. (3) Tony Hirschman, Jr., Northampton, Penn., Chevrolet, 150, $3,200.
3. (9) Ted Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $3,700.
4. (5) Matt Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Dodge, 150, $3,150.
5. (6) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $2,850.
6. (10) James Civali, Meriden, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $2,850.
7. (2) Donny Lia, Jericho, N.Y., Dodge, 150, $2,550.
8. (16) Rick Fuller, Auburn, Mass., Pontiac, 150, $1,500.
9. (17) Bobby Santos, III, Millis, Mass., Chevrolet, 150, $1,800.
10. (25) Reggie Ruggiero, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $2,400.
11. (11) Eddie Flemke, Southington, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $1,850.
12. (19) Kevin Goodale, Riverhead, N.Y., Chevrolet, 150, $1,800.
13. (13) Bobby Grigas, Marshfield, Mass., Chevrolet, 150, $1,925.
14. (27) Rowan Pennink, Huntingdon Valley, Pa., Chevrolet, 150, $1,750.
15. (1) Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, Conn., Ford, 150, $1,975.
16. (12) Jimmy Blewett, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 150, $1,785.
17. (20) Richard Savary, Canton, Mass., Chevrolet, 150, $1,660.
18. (8) Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater, Mass., Chevrolet, 150, $1,235.
19. (7) Eric Beers, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 150, $2,210.
20. (31) Joe Hartmann, Riverhead, N.Y., Chevrolet, 149, $1,285.
21. (18) Anthony Sesely, Matawan, N.J., Chevrolet, 149, $858.
22. (33) Jake Marosz, Middletown, Conn., Chevrolet, 148, $825.
23. (28) Eric Berndt, Meriden, Conn., Pontiac, 147, $800.
24. (30) Wade Cole, Riverton, Conn., Chevrolet, 146, $1,500.
25. (23) Charlie Pasteryak, Lisbon, Conn., Chevrolet, 140, $800.
26. (26) Renee Dupuis, Glastonbury, Conn., Chevrolet, 136, clutch, $800.
27. (32) Glen Tyler, Hampton Bays, N.Y., Chevrolet, 121, $1,200.
28. (22) Woody Pitkat, Stafford Springs, Conn., Pontiac, 108, suspension, $1,350.
29. (24) Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown, N.J., Dodge, 106, accident, $1,500.
30. (15) Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook, Conn., Chevrolet, 68, accident, $1,500.
31. (4) Ryan Preece, Kensington, Conn., Chevrolet, 18, accident, $1,500.
32. (21) Carl Pasteryak, Lisbon, Conn., Pontiac, 5, accident, $800.
33. (29) Jamie Tomaino, Howell, N.J., Ford, 2, engine, $1,600.

Race Statistics:

Time of Race: 1 hour 10 minutes 59 seconds

Fastest Qualifier: Eric Beers (98.538 mph, 18.267 seconds)

Caution Flags: 8 for 42 laps.

Lead Changes: 4 among 4 drivers.

Lap Leaders: T.Szegedy 1-10; D.Lia 11; T.Szegedy 12-60; M.Hirschman 61-91; M.Stefanik 92-150.

Standings:

1. Lia, 2392; 2. Szegedy, 2209; 3. Civali, 2111; 4. Silk, 2102; 5. M. Hirschman, 2102;
6. Christopher, 2095; 7. Stefanik, 1935; 8. Blewett, 1795; 9. Tomaino, 1754; 10. Flemke Jr., 1745.

WINNER: RONNIE SILK

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

NASCAR Race Number 13 - NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour

The Sunoco Modified Mania 150 - 09/23/2007

Thompson International Speedway - Thompson, CT - 0.62-mile banked paved oval

Total Race Length 149 K - 150L - 93 M Purse: $89,186

Fin Str Car Driver Team Laps Points B/Points Total Award Status

1 4 19 Ronnie Silk Major Motion Transport/Silk Plumbing Chevrolet 150 180 5 $7,200 Running
2 19 14 Reggie Ruggiero Atlantic Sprinkler Chevrolet 150 170 3,900 Running
3 7 2 Todd Szegedy Wisk/Snuggle Ford 150 165 2,900 Running
4 13 3 Bobby Santos , III * Roby's Propane/Cape Cod Copper Chevrolet 150 160 2,850 Running
5 27 28 James Civali Ramar-Hall/Liberty Limousine Chevrolet 150 155 7,300 Running
6 25 09 Robert Grigas * Triple G Scaffold Services Chevrolet 150 150 2,050 Running
7 15 79 Woody Pitkat Hill Ent./Coors Light/Sunoco/LaBleu Pontiac 150 146 1,950 Running
8 1 4 Donny Lia Bob Garbarino Dodge 150 142 2,450 Running
9 6 31 Anthony Ferrante A. Ferrante & Co./NY Yankees Chevrolet 150 138 1,250 Running
10 14 16 Mike Stefanik Diversified Metals Pontiac 150 134 2,325 Running
11 3 59 Matt Hirschman Furnace & Duct Chevrolet 150 130 1,600 Running
12 16 58 Kevin Goodale Riverhead Building Supply Chevrolet 150 127 1,575 Running
13 5 46 Dick Houlihan Viverios Insurance/Crossroads RV Center 150 124 1,550 Running
14 2 6 Ron Yuhas Vassel Brothers, Inc. Chevrolet 150 121 1,525 Running
15 23 12 Jimmy Blewett TS Haulers/United Crane/Archer Steel Chevrolet 150 118 1,500 Running
16 21 21 Richard Savary * Superior Oil Chevrolet 150 115 1,475 Running
17 29 93 Rowan Pennink Monk Mechanics Hand Cleaner Dodge 150 112 1,450 Running
18 28 90 Renee Dupuis RH&A/Featherlite Trailers Chevrolet 150 109 1,400 Running
19 34 05 Joseph Hartmann WMS Construction Chevrolet 150 106 1,465 Running
20 20 77 Rick Fuller Race Against Cancer/Foxwoods/Toyota Used 150 103 1,445 Running
21 9 36 Ted Christopher Al-Lee Installation Chevrolet 149 100 1,437 Running
22 26 33 Wade Cole Performance Eng./Kendall Oil/Ryans Oil 147 97 1,300 Running
23 22 94 Eric Beers Sunoco Race Fuels/Reynolds Auto Wrecking 146 94 1,250 Running
24 30 10 Eddie Flemke Ron Bouchard Auto Stores/Red Line Oil 141 91 1,225 Accident
25 17 99 Jamie Tomaino VP Race Fuels/Clean Up Supply Chevrolet 139 88 1,200 Running
26 10 06 Billy Pauch, Jr. * Dick Greenfield Dodge 137 85 800 Running
27 8 00 Jerry Marquis Reynolds Auto Wrecking Chevrolet 134 82 800 Engine
28 12 64 Eric Berndt North End Auto Parts Pontiac 132 79 800 Suspension
29 18 40 Ryan Preece * Mizzy Construction/F.J. Hubeky Inc. Chevrolet 131 76 800 Clutch
30 33 38 Ken Heagy Buoy One Chevrolet 117 73 800 Transmission
31 31 1 Robbie Summers Frasco Fuel Oil Pontiac 61 70 800 Handling
32 35 9 John Marosz Middlesex Auto Center Chevrolet 35 67 800 Vibration
33 32 13 Jonathan McKennedy F.J. Hubeny Dodge 23 64 800 Overheating
34 36 27 Roy Seidell AVI Intl/Jerry's Variety/Sherry Seidell Chevrolet 22 61 800 Overheating
35 11 0 Danny Sammons Area Auto Racing News Chevrolet 0 58 800 DNS
36 24 48 Tony Hirschman KAMCO Supply Corp. Chevrolet 0 55 800 DNS

Fastest Qualifier: Donnie Lia, Time: 18.885 Seconds, Speed: 118.189 MPH

Time of Race:1 hrs., 10 mins, 35 secs Average Speed: 79.055 mph

BUDWEISER POLE AWARD: Donnie Lia, 4 Bob Garbarino Dodge

FEATHERLITE MOST IMPROVED DRIVER AWARD: Reggie Ruggiero, 14 Atlantic Sprinkler Chevrolet

POWERADE "POWER MOVE OF THE RACE": James Civali, 28 Ramar-Hall/Liberty Limousine Chevrolet

SUNOCO ROOKIE OF THE RACE: Bobby Santos, III *, 3 Roby's Propane/Cape Cod Copper Chevrolet

WHELEN ENGINEERING "WINNER OF THE RACE" AWARD: Ronnie Silk, 19 Major Motion Transport/Silk Plumbing Chevrolet

Caution Flags: Laps 10-13 (Car No. 33, spin, turn 4); 57-62 (Car No. 38, spin, frontstretch); 76-80 (Car No. 6, accident, frontstretch); 112-115 (Car. No. 46, Car No. 40, spin, turn 1); 123-127 (Car No. 12, spin, turn 2); 128-131 (Car Nos. 6,77,38, 40, accident, frontstretch); 134-136 (fluid on track); 140-143 (Car No. 10, Car No. 36, accident, turn 2). 8 for 35 laps.

Lap Leaders: Donnie Lia 1-58, Ted Christopher 59-99, Ronnie Silk 100-130, Reggie Ruggiero 131-136, Ronnie Silk 137-150.

Total Laps Led: Donnie Lia 58, Ronnie Silk 45, Ted Christopher 41, Reggie Ruggiero 6. 4 changes involving 4 drivers.

Top 10 Driver Points: 1. D.Lia, 2246; 2. T.Szegedy, 2091; 3. J.Civali, 1961; 4. R.Silk, 1947; 5. M.Hirschman, 1935; 6. T.Christopher, 1862; 7. M.Stefanik, 1755; 8. J.Tomaino, 1690; 9. J.Blewett, 1683; 10. E.Beers, 1619.

Rookie Standings: 1. R.Savary, 94; 2. B.Grigas, 90; 3. B.Pauch, 87; 4. R.Preece, 84; 5. R.Pinnink, 82; 6. B.Santos, 63; 7. J.Hartman, 62; 8. W.Pitkat, 61.

Next Race: Stafford Springs, Conn. - Sept. 30 Denotes Rookie of the Year Contender

BUD POLE AWARD: TODD SZEGEDY

MARY HODGE PHOTO

WINNER: TODD SZEGEDY

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

UPDATE - Late Thursday afternoon, NASCAR issued the following statement, confirming that Szegedy won at NHIS on Sept. 15th.

“Following a thorough examination this week at the NASCAR R&D Center, the intake manifold from the #2 car that won last Saturday’s NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race at New Hampshire International Speedway has passed inspection. The race results are now official. The R&D Center is a great resource for NASCAR to study potential issues that may arise on any given race weekend, and this was certainly the case in this particular situation.”

Another Controversial NHIS Mod Race Goes to Szegedy (Maybe)
by Matt Kentfield

Speed51 Story HERE

BUD POLE AWARD: DONNIE LIA

MARY HODGE PHOTO

WINNER: DONNIE LIA

MARY HODGE PHOTO

Lia Earns 'Career Win' At Martinsville

Martinsville , Va. – Donny Lia is in the middle of a career-defining season. He got the victory of a lifetime Saturday night in the Made In American Whelen 300 at Martinsville Speeday.

“It’s the biggest one of my career so far,” said Lia. “It means a lot for me to win here.”

Lia held off Ted Christopher for the win in the race – the annual combination event between the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and the NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour. Not only did the victory further solidify Lia’s Whelen Modified Tour points lead, it comes two weeks after his friend and fellow driver John Blewett III passed away following a racing accident.

John’s brother Jimmy won the Made In American Whelen 300 last year. After sitting out last week, Jimmy Blewett returned Saturday. He finished 43rd after engine problems.

“I just want the Blewett family to know that John still and will always be in our hearts,” said Lia, who was overcome with emotion in Victory Lane . “I dedicated this win to them.”

It was Lia’s sixth win of the Whelen Modified Tour season and he improved his points lead to 193 over Todd Szegedy with four races remaining.

L.W. Miller was the top finishing Southern Modified Tour driver in third. Fellow Southern Modified Tour drivers Tim Brown and Brian King were fifth and sixth respectively.

“Since 2003, these Southern boys have picked it up,” said Miller. “I’ll take third all day long. We had nothing for (Lia) or (Christopher).”

Lia, who won the Budweiser Pole Award, led twice for 234 laps. He pitted for tires on lap 157 on the first caution following the mid-race break. And he took over the lead when Christopher pitted for tires on lap 184. Christopher moved from 15th to second by lap 225 but was unable to get by Lia in the closing laps.

Martinsville 2007 - Made in America Whelen 300 Results

SaturdayAt Martinsville Speedway, Martinsville, Va. Lap length: 0.526 miles

(Start position in parentheses)

1. (1) Donny Lia, Jericho, N.Y., Dodge, 300 laps, 52.498 mph, $12,375.
2. (4) Ted Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Chevrolet, 300, $6,750.
3. (40) L.W. Miller, Mooresville, N.C., Pontiac, 300, $4,725.
4. (19) James Civali, Meriden, Conn., Chevrolet, 300, $4,650.
5. (21) Tim Brown, Cana, Va., Chevrolet, 300, $3,150.
6. (25) Brian King, Gibsonville, N.C., Chevrolet, 300, $2,325.
7. (16) Richard Houlihan, Bridgewater, Mass., Chevrolet, 300, $2,850.
8. (37) Rowan Pennink, Huntingdon Valley, Pa., Dodge, 300, $3,750.
9. (18) Jay Foley, Stuart, Va., Chevrolet, 300, $2,150.
10. (33) Richard Savary, Canton, Mass., Chevrolet, 300, $2,675.
11. (41) George Brunnhoelzl, Mooresville, N.C., Dodge, 276, $3,000.
12. (24) Jason Myers, Walnut Cove, N.C., Chevrolet, 300, $1,925.
13. (34) Brandon Hire, Winston-Salem, N.C., Chevrolet, 300, $2,100.
14. (20) Robert Grigas, Marshfield, Mass., Chevrolet, 299, $2,225.
15. (30) Junior Miller, Danbury, N.C., Dodge, 299, $1,800.
16. (38) Joseph Hartmann, Calverton, N.Y., Chevrolet, 299, $2,025.
17. (31) Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook, Conn., Chevrolet, 296, $2,300.
18. (14) Eric Beers, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 296, $2,425.
19. (36) Jamie Tomaino, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 293, $2,350.
20. (13) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, Conn., Chevrolet, 293, $2,475.
21. (26) Buddy Emory, Petersburg, Va., Chevrolet, 292, $1,650.
22. (22) Burt Myers, Walnut Cove, N.C., Chevrolet, 291, $1,600.
23. (15) Billy Pauch, Lawrenceville, N.J., Dodge, 276, $2,125.
24. (8) Eddie Flemke, Southington, Conn., Chevrolet, 270, $2,200.
25. (2) Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, Conn., Ford, 269, $1,375.
26. (9) Matt Hirschmann, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 237, $2,318.
27. (7) Doug Coby, Milford, Conn., Pontiac, 235, brakes, $1,785.
28. (17) Ryan Preece, Kensington, Conn., Chevrolet, 204, accident, $1,700.
29. (42) Brian Pack, Walkertown, N.C., Chevrolet, 202, accident, $1,450.
30. (27) Frank Fleming, Mount Airy, Ford, 185, accident, $1,450.
31. (11) Reggie Ruggerio, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, 177, power steering, $1,700.
32. (3) Bobby Santos, Franklin, Mass., Chevrolet, 175, accident, $1,300.
33. (6) Danny Sammons, Hamilton, N.J., Chevrolet, 165, clutch, $2,000.
34. (12) Mike Stefanik, Coventry, R.I., Pontiac, 130, accident, $2,700.
35. (28) Woody Pitkat, Stafford, Conn., Pontiac, 110, oil leak, $2,150.
36. (10) Brian Loftin, Lexington, N.C., Chevrolet, 80, accident, $1,875.
37. (5) Kevin Goodale, Riverhead, N.Y., Chevrolet, 80, accident, $2,000.
38. (29) Anthony Sesely, Matawan, N.J., Chevrolet, 80, radiator, $1,300.
39. (35) Wade Cole, Riverton, Conn., Chevrolet, 79, clutch, $1,700.
40. (43) Zach Brewer, Winston-Salem, Chevrolet, 63, accident, $1,450.
41. (32) Glenn Tyler, Hampton Bays, N.Y., Chevrolet, 63, accident, $1,700.
42. (39) Jake Marosz, Middletown, Conn., Chevrolet, 32, suspension, $1,300.
43. (23) Jimmy Blewett, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 19, suspension, $2,100.

Race Statistics

Time of Race: 3 hours 0 minutes 21 seconds

Margin of Victory: .487 seconds

Fastest Qualifier: D.Lia (100.440 mph, 18.853 seconds)

Caution Flags: 15 for 88 laps.

Lead Changes: 4 among 3 drivers.
Lap Leaders: D.Lia 1-118; T.Christopher 119-159; R.Silk 160-162; T.Christopher 163-184; D.Lia 185-300.

BUD POLE AWARD: DONNIE LIA

MARY HODGE PHOTO

WINNER: JAMES CIVALI

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

James Civali can thank his brother for his third victory of the season.

With his brother serving as his spotter and tracking the weather on his cell phone, James Civali elected not to pit with the leaders and was out front when NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour officials called the rain-shortened Mansfield 150 Saturday at Mansfield Motorsports Park.

“He knew it was going to rain – he just didn’t know how much or when,” said James Civali.

The race was called after 108 laps following several attempts to dry the track.

Doug Coby finished second and rookie Woody Pitkat was third.

Point leader and Budweiser Pole Award winner Donny Lia was fourth and Eric Beers fifth. Ronnie Silk, Matt Hirschman, Ted Christopher, Todd Szegedy and Bobby Grigas III rounded out the top 10.

Coby led the first 13 laps before Civali made the pass. Silk moved to the front seven laps later and led until a lap 54 caution. Silk elected to pit along with the fifth-place car of Szegedy and nine others.

“We were leading and the car was really good,” Civali said. “When Ronnie got by me, the car got free. But then it stayed the same. It had 90 hard laps on it, too. But it never changed that whole run. It looked like Ronnie got free and then kept getting (more free).”

Following the restart, Civali and Coby built a straightaway lead over third-place Pitkat on the half-mile banked oval. The field was bunched briefly following a lap 96 caution. Rain brought out the caution at lap 104 and the red at lap 108.

Lia maintained his points lead at 131 over Szegedy and 139 over Hirschman.

The next NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race will be at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway Sept. 1.

NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR-Mansfield 150 Results
ThursdayAt Mansfield Motorsports Speedway, Mansfield, OH Lap length: 0.5 miles

(Start position in parentheses)
1. (10) James Civali, Meriden, Conn., Chevrolet, 108 laps, 81.544 mph, $8,100.
2. (2) Doug Coby, III, Milford, Conn., Pontiac, 108, $3,000.
3. (18) Woody Pitkat, Stafford Springs, Conn., Pontiac, 108, $3,800.
4. (6) Donny Lia, Jericho, N.Y., Dodge, 108, $3,600.
5. (16) Eric Beers, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 108, $2,450.
6. (8) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, Conn., Chevrolet, 108, $2,350.
7. (4) Matt Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Dodge, 108, $2,400.
8. (12) Ted Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Chevrolet, 108, $2,275.
9. (3) Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, Conn., Ford, 108, $2,125.
10. (7) Bobby Grigas, Marshfield, MA, Chevrolet, 108, $1,550.
11. (11) Tony Hirschman, Jr., Northampton, Penn., Chevrolet, 108, $1,675.
12. (22) Mike Stefanik, Coventry, R.I., Pontiac, 108, $2,475.
13. (17) Richard Savary, Canton, Mass., Chevrolet, 108, $1,750.
14. (21) Jamie Tomaino, Howell, N.J., Ford, 108, $1,995.
15. (14) Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater, Mass., Chevrolet, 108, $1,740.
16. (13) Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown, N.J., Dodge, 108, $1,880.
17. (9) Ryan Preece, Kensington, CT, Chevrolet, 108, $1,825.
18. (5) Eddie Flemke, Southington, Conn., Chevrolet, 108, $1,900.
19. (24) Joe Hartmann, Riverhead, N.Y., Chevrolet, 108, $1,325.
20. (15) Kevin Goodale, Riverhead, N.Y., Chevrolet, 107, $1,600.
21. (23) Rowan Pennink, Huntingdon Valley, Pa., Chevrolet, 106, $1,575.
22. (25) Wade Cole, Riverton, Conn., Chevrolet, 106, $1,550.
23. (19) Glen Tyler, Hampton Bays, N.Y., Chevrolet, 95, $1,225.
24. (20) Andy Seuss, Hampstead, N.H., Chevrolet, 22, oil pump, $950.
25. (1) Danny Sammons, Trenton, N.J., Chevrolet, 4, engine, $1,490.
26. (26) Jake Marosz, Middletown, Conn., Chevrolet, 3, oil leak, $750.
27. (27) Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook, Conn., Chevrolet, 2, ignition, $1,250.

Race Statistics
Time of Race: 0 hours 39 minutes 44 seconds
Margin of Victory: under caution
Fastest Qualifier: D.Lia (117.847 mph, 15.274 seconds)
Caution Flags: 4 for 21 laps.
Lead Changes: 7 among 4 drivers.
Lap Leaders: D.Coby,III 1-13; J.Civali 14-19; R.Silk 20-57; J.Civali 58; D.Lia 59; J.Civali 60-100; D.Coby,III 101; J.Civali 102-108.

Standings: 1. D.Lia, 1759; 2. T.Szegedy, 1628; 3. M.Hirschman, 1620; 4. T.Christopher, 1504; 5. J.Civali, 1491; 6. R.Silk, 1470; 7. M.Stefanik, 1386; 8. J.Tomaino, 1366; 9. J.Blewett, 1334; 10. E.Flemke, 1318.

Tragic Accident Takes the Life of John Blewett III

THOMPSON, Conn. — John Blewett III, 33, died after an accident involving a car driven by his brother, Jimmy Blewett, 26, during the New England Dodge Dealers 150 August 16th at Thompson International Speedway. On lap 107, the brothers, from Howell, N.J., were racing for the lead following a restart.

The crowd of about 8,000 went silent as safety crews rushed to the accident, which occurred between turns 1 and 2. At 10:20 p.m., John Blewett was taken by ambulance to Hubbard Regional Hospital in Webster, Mass., where he was pronounced dead.

The New England Dodge Dealers 150 was John Blewett’s 164th career start – he had 10 career victories in the division – competing on the Modified Tour since 1995. The event was Jimmy’s 36th career start since entering the Series in 2004.

It was three years, almost to the day in Aug. 19, 2004, that driver Tom Baldwin of Freeport, N.Y., was killed running in the same event.

BUD POLE AWARD: Todd Szegedy

MARY HODGE PHOTO

NEW ENGLAND DODGE DEALERS 150 OFFICIAL RESULTS

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (April 20, 2007) – Todd Szegedy was declared the winner of the New England Dodge Dealers 150 presented by Budweiser at Thompson (Conn.) International Speedway. The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race, which took place Thursday, Aug. 16, was halted after 107 of the scheduled 150 laps due to a multi-car accident.

Driver John Blewett III died at Hubbard Regional Hospital as a result of injuries suffered in the incident.

The accident involved the top three cars of Blewett, Jimmy Blewett and Woody Pitkat. Szegedy was running fourth at the time of the accident. Tony Hirschman finished second, followed by Ron Yuhas, Donny Lia and Eddie Flemke. Earlier in the day, Szegedy won the Budweiser Pole Award.

The Whelen Modified Tour’s next race is Saturday at Mansfield (Ohio) Speedway

Race Results For The NEW ENGLAND DODGE DEALERS 150 - 08/16/2007

Thompson Speedway - Thompson, CT - 0.625-mile paved oval

Fin Str Car Driver Team Laps Points B/Points Total Award Status

1. 8 2 Todd Szegedy Wisk/Snuggle Ford 107 180 5 $8,250 Running
2. 7 48 Tony Hirschman Jr. Kamco Supply Corporation Chevrolet 107 170 3,300 Running
3. 18 6 Ron Yuhas A. P. Marquadt, Inc./VP Racing Fuels Chevrolet 107 165 2,400 Running
4. 1 4 Donny Lia Dodge 107 160 3,000 Running
5. 10 10 Eddie Flemke Ron Bouchard Auto/Red Line Oil Chevrolet 107 155 2,950 Running
6. 17 06 Billy Pauch, Jr. * Greenfield Dodge Dodge 107 150 2,250 Running
7. 27 99 Jamie Tomaino Ford 107 146 2,250 Running
8. 5 36 Ted Christopher Al-Lee Installations Chevrolet 107 142 2,275 Running
9. 29 70 Andy Seuss Land & Sea Dyno/Stewart's Automotive 107 138 1,175 Running
10. 19 40 Ryan Preece * Mizzy Construction Chevrolet 107 134 1,550 Running
11. 36 64 Eric Berndt North End Auto Parts/Co's Central Auto Pontiac 107 1301,725 Running
12. 23 59 Matt Hirschman Bennett Properties Dodge 107 127 2,025 Running
13. 21 94 Eric Beers Reynolds Auto Wrecking Chevrolet 107 124 1,900 Running
14. 32 33 Wade Cole Performance Engine/Kendall Oil/Ryan's Oil 107 121 1,740 Running
15. 4 12 Jimmy Blewett Monroe Shocks/5-7 Motorsports Chevrolet 106 118 1,986 Accident
16. 6 66 John Blewett, III Mastrobattisto Contractors/Sunoco Chevrolet 106 115 1,000 Accident
17. 15 79 Woody Pitkat Hill Enterprises/Coors Light Pontiac 106 112 1,425 Accident
18. 33 05 Joe Hartmann WMS Construction Chevrolet 106 109 1,350 Running
19. 22 77 Doug Coby, III Racing Against Cancer Foxwoods/Subway 105 106 1,375 Running
20. 37 38 Ken Heagy Buoy One Seafood Chevrolet 105 103 900 Running
21. 12 21 Richard Savary * Superior Oil Chevrolet 100 100 875 Accident
22. 3 14 Reggie Ruggiero Atlantic Sprinklers Chevrolet 99 97 1,250 Accident
23. 26 46 Dick Houlihan Crossroads RV Center/Viveiros Insurance 99 94 1,525 Accident
24. 31 93 Rowan Pennink * Monk Mechanic Hand Cleaner Chevrolet 99 91 1,500 Accident
25. 13 19 Ronnie Silk Major Motion /Silk Pumbing & Heating Chevrolet 97 88 1,590 Running
26. 2 28 James Civali Ramar-Hall/Liberty Limousine Chevrolet 93 85 1,750 Accident
27. 20 00 Jerry Marquis Reynolds Auto/Chute Gates Steakhouse 85 82 1,700 Running
28. 16 11 Anthony Sesely A-1 Collision Center Chevrolet 83 79 750 Power Steering
29. 9 09 Bobby Grigas * Triple G Scaffolding/Amsoil Racing Chevrolet 82 76 1,150 Accident
30. 25 16 Mike Stefanik Diversified Metals Pontiac 80 73 2,300 Running
31. 30 8 Glenn Tyler Sypher Construction/1-800-CONCRETE 62 70 1,150 Rear End
32. 35 1 Rob Summers Frasco Fuel Chevrolet 62 67 750 Suspension
33. 11 0 Danny Sammons Area Auto Racing News Chevrolet 57 64 1,450 Accident
34. 24 58 Kevin Goodale Riverhead Building Supply Chevrolet 57 61 1,450 Accident
35. 14 3 Bobby Santos, III * Roby's Propane/Cape Cod Copper Chevrolet 53 58 750 Accident
36. 28 90 Renee Dupuis RH&A/Cottrifeld Trailers Chevrolet 27 55 750 Accident
37. 34 9 Jake Marosz Middlesex Auto Center Chevrolet 17 52 750 Accident

Fastest Qualifier: Todd Szegedy, Time: 18.743 Seconds

Time of Race:1 hrs., 0 mins, 59 secs Average Speed: 65.797 mph Margin of Victory: Race ended under caution

BUD POLE AWARD: Todd Szegedy, 2 Wisk/Snuggle Ford

FEATHERLITE MOST IMPROVED DRIVER AWARD: Eddie Flemke, 10 Ron Bouchard Auto/Red Line Oil Chevrolet

POWERADE POWER MOVE OF THE RACE: Eric Berndt, 64 North End Auto Parts/Co's Central Auto Pontiac

SUNOCO ROOKIE OF THE RACE: Billy Pauch, Jr. *, 06 Greenfield Dodge Dodge

WHELEN ENGINEERING WINNER OF THE RACE: Todd Szegedy, 2 Wisk/Snuggle Ford

Caution Flags: Laps 20-25; 47-51; 58-62; 67-71; 73-75; 85-88; 93-97; 100-106; 107. 9 for 41 laps.

Lap Leaders: Donny Lia 1, James Civali 2-10, Donny Lia 11-25, James Civali 26-92, John Blewett III 93-106, Todd Szegedy 107.

Total Laps Led: James Civali 60, 23, Donny Lia 16, John Blewett III 7, Todd Szegedy 1. 11 changes involving 5 drivers.

Top 10 Driver Points: Donny Lia 1599, Todd Szegedy 1490, Matt Hirschman 1474, Ted Christopher 1362, Jimmy Blewett 1334, Ronnie Silk 1320, James Civali 1311, Mike Stefanik 1259, Jamie Tomaino 1245, Eddie Flemke 1209.

Next Race: Mansfield (Ohio)

* Denotes Rookie of the Year Contender

BUD POLE AWARD: TONY HIRSHMAN

MARY HODGE PHOTO

WINNER: TEDDY CHRISTOPHER

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

Christopher Finds Way Back To Victory Lane

Stafford Springs, Conn. — With a motor that overpowered clutch problems, Ted Christopher broke a year-long winless streak on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour by holding off Todd Szegedy to win the the New England Dodge Dealers 150 Saturday night at Stafford Motor Speedway.

It was Christopher’s seventh win at the track where he is the all-time winningest driver and the points leader in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series’ SK Modified Division. But it was his first trip to Victory Lane on the Whelen Modified Tour since Aug. 17, 2006 at Thompson (Conn.).

Christopher (No. 36 Al-Lee Installations Chevrolet) battled runner-up Szegedy (No. 2 Wisk/Snuggle Ford) and third-place finisher Mike Stefanik (No. 16 Diversity Metals Pontiac) during several restarts over the final 38 laps. Christopher said that his clutch was slipping on each restart.

“I had to start in fourth (gear),” Christopher said. “I figured if I stayed on the bottom, if (Szegedy’s) going to go to the outside, he can go outside.”

Christopher led 58 laps before pitting on lap 76. He quickly worked his way back up front and retook the lead on lap 114.

“It was fun,” Christopher said. “I passed a lot of cars and had a lot of fun.”

Doug Coby, making his first start of the season for the No. 77 Race Against Cancer Foxwoods/Subway Pontiac, finished fourth. Donny Lia (No. 4 Dodge), who won the first two Whelen Modified Tour stops of the season at Stafford, was fifth.

Matt Hirschman, Jerry Marquis, Eric Beers, Jimmy Blewett and Woody Pitkat rounded out the top 10. Pitkat, the national leader in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series standings, won his fourth straight SK Modified feature at Stafford earlier in the night and was the Whelen Modified Tour’s Sunoco Rookie of the Race.

Szegedy took the lead briefly on restarts on lap 126 and 138, and each time Christopher was able power back in front.

“I was really strong on every restart,” Szegedy said. “But Teddy, the motor he’s got in that thing – he’s got power. I could have blocked him, but there was no sense. He would have gotten by eventually.”

NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR-New England Dodge Dealers 150 Results
Saturday At Stafford Motor Speedway - Stafford Springs, CT - Lap length: 0.5 miles
(Start position in parentheses)

1. (8) Ted Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Chevrolet, 150 laps, 51.311 mph, $7,300.
2. (2) Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, Conn., Ford, 150, $4,000.
3. (21) Mike Stefanik, Coventry, R.I., Chevrolet, 150, $4,850.
4. (20) Doug Coby, Milford, Conn., Pontiac, 150, $2,600.
5. (4) Donny Lia, Jericho, N.Y., Dodge, 150, $2,850.
6. (6) Matt Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Dodge, 150, $2,500.
7. (25) Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $2,150.
8. (12) Eric Beers, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 150, $2,050.
9. (16) Jimmy Blewett, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 150, $2,250.
10. (19) Woody Pitkat, Stafford Springs, Conn., Pontiac, 150, $1,850.
11. (10) Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater, Mass., Chevrolet, 150, $2,400.
12. (5) Tony Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 150, $2,175.
13. (29) Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown, N.J., Dodge, 150, $1,500.
14. (26) Eric Berndt, Rocky Hill, Conn., Pontiac, 150, $1,075.
15. (27) Jamie Tomaino, Howell, N.J., Ford, 150, $2,000.
16. (13) Renee Dupuis, Glastonbury, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $1,025.
17. (3) Danny Sammons, Trenton, N.J., Chevrolet, 150, $1,850.
18. (24) Wade Cole, Riverton, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $1,675.
19. (28) Rowan Pennink, Huntingdon Valley, Pa., Chevrolet, 150, $1,800.
20. (7) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $1,875.
21. (23) Charlie Pasteryak, Lisbon, Conn., Chevrolet, 138, accident, $900.
22. (11) Richard Savary, Canton, Mass., Chevrolet, 134, $1,575.
23. (1) Bobby Grigas, Marshfield, MA, Chevrolet, 132, electrical, $1,250.
24. (30) Glen Tyler, Hampton Bays, N.Y., Chevrolet, 130, accident, $1,225.
25. (17) James Civali, Meriden, Conn., Chevrolet, 129, $1,950.
26. (15) Reggie Ruggiero, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, 117, accident, $1,164.
27. (22) Kevin Goodale, Riverhead, NY, Chevrolet, 115, accident, $1,450.
28. (14) Eddie Flemke, Southington, Conn., Chevrolet, 114, $1,550.
29. (32) Jake Marosz, Middletown, Conn., Chevrolet, 114, $750.
30. (18) Ryan Preece, Kensington, CT, Chevrolet, 84, $1,450.
31. (31) Joseph Hartmann, Calverton, N.Y., Chevrolet, 72, radiator, $1,150.
32. (9) Bobby Santos, III, Millis, Mass., Chevrolet, 6, accident, $750.

Race Statistics

Time of Race: 1 hour 27 minutes 42 seconds

Margin of Victory: .430 seconds

Fastest Qualifier: T.Hirschman (98.966 mph, 18.188 seconds)

Caution Flags: 13 for 73 laps.

Lead Changes: 11 among 5 drivers.

Lap Leaders: B.Grigas pole; T.Szegedy 1-14; D.Lia 15-18; T.Christopher 19-76; D.Lia 77-85; B.Grigas 86-111; M.Stefanik 112-113; T.Christopher 114-125; T.Szegedy 126; T.Christopher 127-137; T.Szegedy 138-140; T.Christopher 141-150.

Standings: 1. D.Lia, 1439; 2. M.Hirschman, 1347; 3. T.Szegedy, 1310; 4. R.Silk, 1232; 5. J.Civali, 1226; 6. T.Christopher, 1220; 7. Ji.Blewett, 1216; 8. M.Stefanik, 1186; 9. J.Tomaino, 1099; 10. J.Marquis, 1066.

BUD POLE AWARD: TEDDY CHRISTOPHER

MARY HODGE PHOTO

WINNER: DONNIE LIA

MARY HODGE PHOTO

Lia Earns Fifth Whelen Modified Victory

NASCAR Public Relations
Riverhead, N.Y. – Donny Lia’s storybook season continued Saturday night, with the latest chapter an improbable victory at Riverhead (N.Y.) Raceway. The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour points leader inherited the lead when the top two cars were involved in a wreck in the closing laps and led the final six laps of the Miller Lite 140 en route to his fifth victory in eight races.
Lia was running third when Mike Stefanik and Ted Christopher were involved in an accident battling for the lead in the midst of lapped traffic.

“We did not have a car to win,” Lia said. “I’m not ashamed to admit it. But you just have to hang in there and get what you can. Tonight, it worked out for us. Bottom line is we’re just doing what we have to do and riding that wave.”

Lia leads second-place Matt Hirschman by 92 points.

To cap his latest victory, Lia had to hold off Riverhead regular Bill Park in a green-white-checkered finish. Ronnie Silk finished third, followed by Justin Bonsignore and James Civali.
“I think I might have had something for Donny at the end,” Park said. “If I could have got him I would have, but I wasn’t going to bump him to do it.”

Park, the Riverhead's NASCAR Whelen All-American Series modified division point leader, said two weeks ago when Lia visited the track for the 77-lap "Tribute To A Legends" race with weekly points at stake, Lia raced him cleanly in an extended battle for position. Saturday, when it was Lia’s championship on the line, Park returned the favor.

“I owed him the same courtesy,” Park said.

“He was going for a championship here,” Lia said. “I probably could have driven a little harder and forced the issue. But I didn’t because I wouldn’t want to be going for the championship and somebody take me out.”
Danny Sammons, Matt Hirs
chman, Howie Brodie, Jamie Tomaino and Ryan Preece rounded out the top 10. Stefanik ended up 11th following his late-race spin.

Stefanik led 116 laps after starting on the pole following a redraw of the top seven spots. Christopher used lapped traffic to get by him on lap 115, and Stefanik took the lead back again on lap 137 before the two clashed two laps later.

That handed the lead – and eventually the win – to Lia.

“I was doing everything in my power just to stay close to them,” Lia said, “and capitalize if anything happened.”

NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR – Miller Lite 140
Saturday August 4th At Riverhead Raceway, Riverhead, N.Y.
Lap length: .25 miles

(Starting position in parentheses)
1. (3) Donny Lia, Jericho N.Y., Dodge, 144
2. (7) Bill Park, Manorville N.Y., Chevrolet, 144
3. (15) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk Conn., Chevrolet, 144
4. (11) Justin Bonsignore, Holtsville N.Y., Chevrolet, 144
5. (9) James Civali, Meriden Conn., Chevrolet, 144
6. (21) Danny Sammons, Hamilton N.J., Chevrolet, 144
7. (24) Matt Hirschman, Northampton Penn., Dodge, 144
8. (5) Howie Brode, East Islap N.Y., Chevrolet, 144
9. (26) Jamie Tomaino, Howell N.J., Chevrolet, 144
10. (19) Ryan Preece, Kensington Conn., Chevrolet, 144
11. (1) Michael Stefanik, Coventry R.I., Pontiac, 144
12. (8) Jimmy Blewett, Calverton N.Y., Chevrolet, 143
13. (20) Rowan Pennink, Huntingdon Valley Penn., Chevrolet, 143
14. (17) Ed Flemke, Jr, Southington Conn., Chevrolet, 143
15. (4) Ted Christopher, Plainville Conn., Chevrolet, 143
16. (25) Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield Conn., Ford, 140
17. (23) Kevin Goodale, Riverhead N.Y., Chevrolet, 140
18. (13) J.R. Bertuccio, Jr, Centereach N.Y., Chevrolet, 138, Nerf bar
19. (14) Eric Beers, Northampton Penn., Chevrolet, 138
20. (10) Dan Jivanelli, Hampton Bays N.Y., Chevrolet, 133, Bumper
21. (6) Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook Conn., Dodge, 103, Accident
22. (22) Richard Savary, Canton Mass., Chevrolet, 94, Accident
23. (12) Chuck Steuer, Bohemia N.Y., Chevrolet, 89, Bumper
24. (28) Glenn Tyler, Hampton Bays N.Y., Chevrolet, 84, Accident
25. (2) Anthony Ferrante, Jr, New Hyde Park N.Y., Chevrolet, 83, Accident
26. (16) Wayne Anderson, Yaphink N.Y., Chevrolet, 82, Accident
27. (18) Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater Mass., Chevrolet, 69, Accident
28. (27) Wade Cole, Riverton Conn., Chevrolet, 58, Accident

Race statistics

Caution Flags: 7 for 66 laps.
Lap Leaders: Stefanik 1-114, Christopher 115-136, Stefanik 137-138, Lia 139-144.
Total Laps Led: Stefanik 116, Christopher 22, Lia 6. 3 changes involving 3 drivers.

Next Race: Stafford (Conn.) Motor Speedway, Friday, Aug. 10

BUD POLE AWARD: RONNIE SILK

MARY HODGE PHOTO

WINNER: JAMES CIVALI

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

Civali Triumphs at Twin State

Claremont, N.H. (July 8, 2007) James Civali of Meriden became the second multiple winner this year on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour with a victory in the Allstate 100 at Twin State Speedway. Civali and Matt Hirschman of Northampton, Pa. waged a torrid battle over the final thirty laps before Civali took the lead for good from Hirschman on lap 93 of the 117 lap distance event.

It was the second victory for Civali this season who won the season opener at Thompson, Conn. in April and the third of his career. Civali, who drives the Don King owned Ramar Hall Chevrolet also earned the Featherlite Most Improved Driver award for this event. Civali took the lead on lap 27 from Ronnie Silk and led al but one of the next 90 laps

“The car was perfect tonight, “Matt Hirschman was real good on the restarts I did what I had to do to stay in front of him.”

Matt Hirschman’s second place finish moved him into second place in the series standings. Hirschman trails Donny Lia by 53 points. Finishing behind Hirschman in third was the Bud Pole Winner of the Event Ronnie Silk of Norwalk, Conn. who was the only other driver to lead a lap at Twin State besides Civali and Hirschman.

Point leader Donny Lia of Jericho, N.Y. finished fourth and Ted Christopher of Plainville, Conn. rounded out the Top-5.

The race distance was extended to 117 laps because of caution laps in the first 50 laps which were scored.

The next event for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour is at Riverhead Raceway on August 4.

NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR-ALLSTATE 100 Results
Sunday 7/8/07 At Twin State Speedway, Claremont, NH Lap length: 0.333 miles

(Start position in parentheses)

1. (4) James Civali, Meriden, Conn., Chevrolet, 117 laps, 62.644 mph, $4,100.
2. (1) Matt Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Dodge, 117, $2,600.
3. (2) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, Conn., Chevrolet, 117, $2,750.
4. (6) Donny Lia, Jericho, N.Y., Dodge, 117, $2,100.
5. (7) Ted Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Chevrolet, 117, $2,000.
6. (11) Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook, Conn., Chevrolet, 117, $1,900.
7. (3) Mike Stefanik, Coventry, R.I., Chevrolet, 117, $2,450.
8. (13) Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, Conn., Ford, 117, $1,800.
9. (8) Jon McKennedy, Chelmsford, Mass., Chevrolet, 117, $975.
10. (25) Jimmy Blewett, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 117, $2,350.
11. (24) Jamie Tomaino, Howell, N.J., Ford, 117, $1,425.
12. (15) Kevin Goodale, Riverhead, NY, Chevrolet, 117, $1,500.
13. (10) Eddie Flemke, Southington, Conn., Chevrolet, 117, $1,200.
14. (5) Ryan Preece, Kensington, CT, Chevrolet, 117, $950.
15. (20) Joseph Hartmann, Calverton, N.Y., Chevrolet, 117, $600.
16. (9) Eric Beers, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 117, $1,275.
17. (23) Rowan Pennink, Huntingdon Valley, Pa., Chevrolet, 117, $925.
18. (19) Richard Savary, Canton, Mass., Chevrolet, 117, $1,200.
19. (22) Wade Cole, Riverton, Conn., Chevrolet, 115, $875.
20. (18) Glen Tyler, Hampton Bays, N.Y., Chevrolet, 113, $425.
21. (26) Jake Marosz, Middletown, Conn., Chevrolet, 113, $400.
22. (14) Zach Sylvester, Lebanon, Conn., Pontiac, 98, $1,050.
23. (21) Bobby Grigas, Marshfield, MA, Chevrolet, 72, accident, $327.
24. (12) Danny Sammons, Trenton, N.J., Chevrolet, 69, power steering, $800.
25. (16) Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater, Mass., Chevrolet, 65, rear end, $800.
26. (17) Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown, N.J., Dodge, 58, nerf bar, $800.

Time of Race:0 hrs., 37 mins, 19 secs Average Speed: 62.644 mph

Margin of Victory:.47 Seconds

BUD POLE AWARD: Ronnie Silk, 19 Major Motion /Silk Plumbing & Heating Chevrolet

FEATHERLITE MOST IMPROVED DRIVER AWARD: James Civali, 28 Ramar-Hall/Liberty Limousine Chevrolet

POWERADE POWER MOVE OF THE RACE: Jimmy Blewett, 12 T.S. Haulers/ United Crane Chevrolet

SUNOCO ROOKIE OF THE RACE: Ryan Preece *, 40 F.J. Hubery, Inc. Chevrolet

WHELEN ENGINEERING WINNER OF THE RACE: James Civali, 28 Ramar-Hall/Liberty Limousine Chevrolet

Caution Flags: Laps 37-43; 47-51; 55-59; 68-71; 74-78; 84-88. 6 for 31 laps.

Lap Leaders: Matt Hirschman 1-15, Ronnie Silk 16-26, James Civali 27-91, Matt Hirschman 92, James Civali 93-117.

Total Laps Led: James Civali 90, Matt Hirschman 16, Ronnie Silk 11. 4 changes involving 3 drivers.

Top 20 Driver Points: Donny Lia 1104, Matt Hirschman 1051, Todd Szegedy 1025, James Civali 983, Ronnie Silk 964, Jimmy Blewett 951, Ted Christopher 922, Mike Stefanik 891, Eddie Flemke 854, Jamie Tomaino 843, Jerry Marquis 820, Zach Sylvester 792, Richard Savary * 771, Eric Beers 767, Dick Houlihan 754, Kevin Goodale 747, Billy Pauch, Jr. * 713, Danny Sammons 691, Rowan Pennink * 658, Bobby Grigas * 657

BUD POLE AWARD: TED CHRISTOPHER

MARY HODGE PHOTO

WINNER: DONNIE LIA

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

Donny Lia’s Dream Season Continued at NHIS

Lia, who signed on with longtime NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour car owner Bob Garbarino just prior to the start of the season, picked up his fourth win in six races with a victory in the New England 100 at New Hampshire International Speedway.

Lia and Co. made the strategic choice not to pit for tires or fuel, while other of the top contenders like Ted Christopher did at various stages and had to work their way back to the front.

“If we pitted today, I don’t know if we could have got through like Teddy did,” said Lia, who had five career wins in 79 career starts entering 2007. “We made our decision and stuck with it. And it was apparently the right one.”

The race was abbreviated to 85 laps due to time contraints. It was slowed eight times for 38 laps, with the last caution setting up a six-lap dash for the finish between Lia, Christopher and Eddie Flemke.

Lia briefly lost the lead to Flemke but used a push from Christopher to get back by and then held on as Christopher and Flemke battled for second. Christopher, who has four Modified Tour wins at NHIS, held on for the runner-up finish. Matt Hirschman and Todd Szegedy were fourth and fifth respectively.

Ronnie Silk, Bobby Santos III, Ron Yuhas Jr., Charlie Pasteryak and John Blewett IIII rounded out the top 10.

Lia holds the points lead over Szegedy by 61 and Hirschman by 63.

The next Whelen Modified Tour race is at Twin State Speedway in Claremont, N.H. Sunday, July 8.

NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR-New England 100 Results

Saturday, June 30th New Hampshire International Speedway - Loudon, NH

Lap length: 1.058 miles

(Start position in parentheses)

1. (2) Donny Lia, Jericho, N.Y., Dodge, 85 laps, 67.140 mph, $15,400.
2. (1) Ted Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Chevrolet, 85, $11,950.
3. (5) Eddie Flemke, Southington, Conn., Chevrolet, 85, $8,200.
4. (4) Matt Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Dodge, 85, $6,500.
5. (12) Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, Conn., Ford, 85, $4,500.
6. (9) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, Conn., Chevrolet, 85, $3,850.
7. (13) Bobby Santos, III, Millis, Mass., Chevrolet, 85, $3,150.
8. (10) Ron Yuhas, Groton, Conn., Chevrolet, 85, $3,300.
9. (7) Charlie Pasteryak, Lisbon, Conn., Chevrolet, 85, $2,500.
10. (38) John Blewett, III, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 85, $3,950.
11. (17) Richard Savary, Canton, Mass., Chevrolet, 85, $2,950.
12. (23) Reggie Ruggiero, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, 85, $2,550.
13. (26) Mike Stefanik, Coventry, R.I., Chevrolet, 85, $3,450.
14. (31) Woody Pitkat, Stafford Springs, Conn., Pontiac, 85, $2,325.
15. (11) Zach Sylvester, Lebanon, Conn., Pontiac, 85, $2,700.
16. (6) Tony Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 85, $2,375.
17. (14) Nevin George, Kunkletown, Pa., Pontiac, 85, $1,950.
18. (20) Ryan Preece, Kensington, CT, Chevrolet, 85, $1,925.
19. (40) Andy Seuss, Hampstead, N.H., Chevrolet, 85, $1,900.
20. (29) Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown, N.J., Dodge, 85, $2,591.
21. (33) Jeff Malave, Manchester, Conn., Chevrolet, 85, $1,850.
22. (21) Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater, Mass., Chevrolet, 85, $2,525.
23. (32) Jamie Tomaino, Howell, N.J., Ford, 85, $2,300.
24. (34) Rowan Pennink, Huntingdon Valley, Pa., Chevrolet, 85, $2,180.
25. (15) Danny Sammons, Trenton, N.J., Chevrolet, 85, $2,450.
26. (30) Kevin Goodale, Riverhead, NY, Chevrolet, 85, $2,450.
27. (36) Wade Cole, Riverton, Conn., Chevrolet, 85, $2,150.
28. (22) Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook, Conn., Chevrolet, 83, $2,550.
29. (18) Alex Hoag, Bath, N.Y., Chevrolet, 73, accident, $1,750.
30. (3) Jimmy Blewett, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 73, accident, $2,550.
31. (24) Rob Summers, Manchester, Conn., Pontiac, 69, suspension, $1,750.
32. (39) Jake Marosz, Middletown, Conn., Chevrolet, 65, suspension, $1,750.
33. (25) Eric Beers, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 64, engine, $2,450.
34. (35) Mike Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Dodge, 57, engine, $1,750.
35. (16) James Civali, Meriden, Conn., Chevrolet, 35, drive shaft, $2,550.
36. (19) Glen Tyler, Hampton Bays, N.Y., Chevrolet, 34, accident, $1,750.
37. (27) Rick Fuller, Auburn, Mass., Chevrolet, 34, accident, $1,750.
38. (28) Ken Bouchard, Fitchburg, Mass., Chevrolet, 34, accident, $1,750.
39. (8) Bobby Grigas, Marshfield, Mass, Chevrolet, 34, accident, $2,450.
40. (37) Joseph Hartmann, Calverton, N.Y., Chevrolet, 2, engine, $1,750

Time of Race:1 hrs., 20 mins, 22 secs Average Speed: 67.140 mph Margin of Victory:.273 seconds

BUD POLE AWARD: Ted Christopher, 36 Al-Lee Installations Chevrolet

FEATHERLITE MOST IMPROVED DRIVER AWARD: John Blewett, III, 66 Blewett Motorsports Chevrolet

POWERADE POWER MOVE OF THE RACE: John Blewett, III, 66 Blewett Motorsports Chevrolet

SUNOCO ROOKIE OF THE RACE: Bobby Santos, III *, 3 Roby's Propane/Cape Cod Copper Chevrolet

WHELEN ENGINEERING WINNER OF THE RACE: Donny Lia, 4 Mystic Missile Dodge

Caution Flags: Laps 2-7; 18-21; 24-28; 31-34; 35-38; 63-67; 70-73; 74-79. 8 for 38 laps.

Lap Leaders: Ted Christopher 1-7, Donny Lia 8-20, Ted Christopher 21, Donny Lia 22-27, Ted Christopher 28, Donny Lia 29-80, Eddie Flemke 81-82, Donny Lia 83-85.

Total Laps Led: Donny Lia 76, Ted Christopher 9, Eddie Flemek 2 7 changes involving 3 drivers.

UnofficialTop 20 Driver Points: Donny Lia 944, Todd Szegedy 883,
Matt Hirschman 881, Jimmy Blewett 817, James Civali 803, Ronnie Silk 799, Ted Christopher 767, Mike Stefanik 745, Eddie Flemke 730, Jamie Tomaino 713, Zach Sylvester 695, Jerry Marquis 670, Dick Houlihan 666, Richard Savary * 662, Eric Beers 652, Ron Yuhas 633, Billy Pauch, Jr. * 628, Kevin Goodale 620, John Blewett, III 605, Danny Sammons 600

Next Race: Twin State Speedway

Donny Lia Continues His Roll

Thompson, Conn. (June 21, 2007) Donny Lia of Jericho, N.Y. continued his winning ways on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour with his third victory of the young season in the Charter Cable Internet & Telephone 150 at Thompson International Speedway. Lia took the lead on lap 34 and led the rest of the way. The event was shortened to 100 laps because of rain.

“I would have liked to have won it under green, “said Lia. “But we’ll take it. It was the 8th career win for Lia and his third in the last four races. It was his first career win at Thompson. Lia also took over the point lead.

Ted Christopher of Plainville, Conn. finished second. Christopher was scheduled to start ninth but was forced to drop back to the rear of the field at the start after changing a tire. Bobby Santos, III of Millis, Mass. scored his best career finish by placing third.

Former champions Tony Hirschman of Northampton, Pa and Todd Szegedy of Ridgefield, Conn. rounded out the Top-5

The next event for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour is at New Hampshire International Speedway on June 30.

REVISED UNOFFICIAL NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR
Charter Cable Internet & Telephone 150 Results

Thursday - At Thompson International Speedway - Thompson, CT - Lap length: 0.625 miles

(Start position in parentheses)

1. (4) Donny Lia, Jericho, N.Y., Dodge, 100 laps, 60.403 mph, $7,400.
2. (9) Ted Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Chevrolet, 100, $4,000.
3. (7) Bobby Santos, III, Millis, Mass., Chevrolet, 100, $2,700.
4. (5) Tony Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 100, $2,050.
5. (27) Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, Conn., Ford, 100, $3,150.
6. (8) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, Conn., Chevrolet, 100, $2,250.
7. (2) James Civali, Meriden, Conn., Chevrolet, 100, $2,250.
8. (15) Jimmy Blewett, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 100, $2,025.
9. (21) Kevin Goodale, Riverhead, NY, Chevrolet, 100, $1,475.
10. (32) Woody Pitkat, Stafford Springs, Conn., Pontiac, 100, $1,850.
11. (31) Jamie Tomaino, Howell, N.J., Ford, 100, $1,525.
12. (30) Rowan Pennink, Huntingdon Valley, Pa., Chevrolet, 100, $1,075.
13. (23) Matt Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Dodge, 100, $1,450.
14. (24) Eric Beers, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 100, $1,740.
15. (13) Mike Stefanik, Coventry, R.I., Chevrolet, 100, $2,436.
16. (12) Danny Sammons, Trenton, N.J., Chevrolet, 100, $1,400.
17. (18) Carl Pasteryak, Lisbon, Conn., Pontiac, 100, $975.
18. (25) Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater, Mass., Chevrolet, 100, $1,650.
19. (33) Wade Cole, Riverton, Conn., Chevrolet, 100, $1,325.
20. (3) Eddie Flemke, Southington, Conn., Chevrolet, 100, $1,400.
21. (29) Glen Tyler, Hampton Bays, N.Y., Chevrolet, 100, $875.
22. (17) Anthony Sesely, Matawan, N.J., Chevrolet, 100, $1,250.
23. (22) Rick Fuller, Auburn, Mass., Chevrolet, 100, $1,225.
24. (6) Richard Savary, Canton, Mass., Chevrolet, 99, $1,550.
25. (20) Ron Yuhas, Groton, Conn., Chevrolet, 98, $1,190.
26. (34) Joseph Hartmann, Calverton, N.Y., Chevrolet, 98, $750.
27. (35) Jake Marosz, Middletown, Conn., Chevrolet, 98, $750.
28. (11) Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook, Conn., Chevrolet, 97, $1,550.
29. (28) Eric Berndt, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, 80, accident, $750.
30. (19) Renee Dupuis, Glastonbury, Conn., Chevrolet, 80, accident, $1,150.
31. (1) Ryan Preece, Kensington, CT, Chevrolet, 64, $750.
32. (14) Bobby Grigas, Marshfield, MA, Chevrolet, 64, $1,450.
33. (16) John Blewett, III, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 50, accident, $1,450.
34. (26) Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown, N.J., Dodge, 49, accident, $1,550.
35. (10) Zach Sylvester, Lebanon, Conn., Pontiac, 38, rear end, $1,450.

Failed to Qualify: (3) Charlie Pasteryak (#5), Ken Bouchard (#55), Jon McKennedy (#73).

Time of Race:1 hrs., 2 mins, 5 secs Average Speed: 60.403 mph Margin of Victory:Under Caution

BUD POLE AWARD: Richard Savary *, 21 Superior Oil/Lombardi Inside Out Chevrolet

FEATHERLITE MOST IMPROVED DRIVER AWARD: Ted Christopher, 36 Al-Lee Installations Chevrolet

POWERADE POWER MOVE OF THE RACE: Todd Szegedy, 2 Wisk/Snuggle Ford

SUNOCO ROOKIE OF THE RACE: Bobby Santos, III *, 3 Roby's Propane/Cape Cod Copper Chevrolet

WHELEN ENGINEERING WINNER OF THE RACE: Donny Lia, 4 Mystic Missile Dodge

Caution Flags: Laps 9-12; 40-44; 45-49; 51-57; 75-79; 81-100. 6 for 46 laps.

Lap Leaders: James Civali 1-12, Eddie Flemke 13-21, James Civali 22, Eddie Flemke 23-26, James Civali 27-33, Donny Lia 34-100.

Total Laps Led: Donny Lia 67, James Civali 20, Eddie Flemke 13. 5 changes involving 3 drivers.

Top 20 Driver Points: Donny Lia 764, James Civali 745, Jimmy Blewett 744, Todd Szegedy 728, Matt Hirschman 721, Ronnie Silk 649, Mike Stefanik 621, Jamie Tomaino 619, Ted Christopher 597, Jerry Marquis 591, Eric Beers 588, Zach Sylvester 577, Dick Houlihan 569, Eddie Flemke 565, Kevin Goodale 535, Richard Savary * 532, Billy Pauch, Jr. * 525, Bobby Grigas * 517, Danny Sammons 512, Ron Yuhas 491

Next Race:Loudon, N.H.

BUD POLE AWARD: TONY HIRSCHMAN

MARY HODGE PHOTO

WINNER: DONNIE LIA

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

Lia Feeling Pretty Lucky

Stafford, Conn. – Donny Lia’s success at Stafford (Conn.) Motor Speedway continued Friday night. Less than a month after winning the Spring Sizzler, Lia picked up his second victory of the season when the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour returned to the historic half-mile for the Connecticut Classic 150.

“You can have the fastest car out there,” said Lia, “but if you don’t catch any breaks, it doesn’t matter.”

Lia’s biggest break in his seventh career victory came on lap 113 when leader Eric Beers lost control in turn 1 just in front of Lia. Lia managed to dive low as he went through turn 2 and avoid getting caught up in the wreck. He then led the rest of the way, holding off a late-charging James Civali for the victory.

“I saw him go around,” Lia said. “I whoaed up; cut it to the bottom. I must have missed him by an inch.”

It was Lia’s fifth top three finish in his last seven starts at Stafford.

Eddie Flemke finished third, followeed by Zach Sylvester and Todd Szegedy.

Matt Hirschman, Jamie Tomaino, Dick Houlihan, Richard Savary and Eric Beers rounded out the top 10. Jimmy Blewett (13th) maintained his points lead by three over Civali, 602-599. Hirschman is third with 597 points and Lia is fourth with 584.

The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour will be at Thompson (Conn.) International Speedway Thursday, June 21.

NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR-Connecticut Classic 150 Results

At Stafford Motor Speedway - Stafford Springs, CT - Lap length: 0.5 miles

(Start position in parentheses)

1. (6) Donny Lia, Jericho, N.Y., Dodge, 150 laps, 58.568 mph, $7,200.
2. (1) James Civali, Meriden, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $4,000.
3. (7) Eddie Flemke, Southington, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $3,200.
4. (15) Zach Sylvester, Lebanon, Conn., Pontiac, 150, $3,300.
5. (4) Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, Conn., Ford, 150, $2,700.
6. (9) Matt Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Dodge, 150, $1,950.
7. (17) Jamie Tomaino, Howell, N.J., Ford, 150, $1,850.
8. (25) Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater, Mass., Chevrolet, 150, $2,050.
9. (30) Richard Savary, Canton, Mass., Chevrolet, 150, $2,200.
10. (16) Eric Beers, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 150, $1,950.
11. (12) Ryan Preece, Kensington, CT, Chevrolet, 150, $1,500.
12. (27) Mike Stefanik, Coventry, R.I., Chevrolet, 150, $2,575.
13. (18) Jimmy Blewett, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 150, $1,800.
14. (19) Eric Berndt, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $1,075.
15. (26) Ron Yuhas, Groton, Conn., Chevrolet, 150, $1,450.
16. (24) Glen Tyler, Hampton Bays, N.Y., Chevrolet, 150, $1,025.
17. (31) Danny Sammons, Trenton, N.J., Chevrolet, 150, $1,400.
18. (8) Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook, Conn., Chevrolet, 148, $1,775.
19. (10) Bobby Grigas, Marshfield, MA, Chevrolet, 147, suspension, $1,650.
20. (28) Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown, N.J., Dodge, 146, $1,725.
21. (2) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, Conn., Chevrolet, 139, $1,600.
22. (22) Wade Cole, Riverton, Conn., Chevrolet, 128, suspension, $1,275.
23. (20) Jon McKennedy, Chelmsford, Mass., Chevrolet, 122, accident, $850.
24. (5) Tony Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 114, accident, $1,275.
25. (29) Kevin Goodale, Riverhead, NY, Chevrolet, 105, accident, $1,075.
26. (11) Reggie Ruggiero, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, 104, accident, $1,464.
27. (13) John Blewett, III, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 104, accident, $1,450.
28. (3) Ted Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Chevrolet, 91, accident, $1,550.
29. (14) Frank Ruocco, Cheshire, Conn., Pontiac, 91, accident, $750.
30. (21) Rick Fuller, Auburn, Mass., Chevrolet, 48, engine, $1,150.
31. (23) Chuck Hossfeld, Buffalo, N.Y., Pontiac, 31, accident, $1,450.

Failed to Qualify: (10) Kenny Horton (#29), Rob Summers (#1), Renee Dupuis (#90), Chris Pasteryak (#5), Carl Pasteryak (#75), Anthony Sesely (#11), Dave Etheridge (#54), Rowan Pennink * (#93), Joseph Hartmann * (#05), Jake Marosz (#9).

Time of Race:1 hrs., 16 mins, 50 secs Average Speed: 58.568 mph Margin of Victory:.46 Seconds

BUD POLE AWARD: Tony Hirschman, 48 Kamco Supply Corporation Chevrolet

FEATHERLITE MOST IMPROVED DRIVER AWARD: Zach Sylvester, 77 Racing Against Cancer Pontiac

POWERADE POWER MOVE OF THE RACE: Richard Savary *, 20 Superior Oil/Lombardi Inside Out Chevrolet

SUNOCO ROOKIE OF THE RACE: Ryan Preece *, 40 F.J. Hubery, Inc. Chevrolet

WHELEN ENGINEERING WINNER OF THE RACE: Donny Lia, 4 Mystic Missile Dodge

Caution Flags: Laps 23-27; 32-37; 83-88; 92-98; 105-110; 114-119. 6 for 36 laps.

Lap Leaders: James Civali 1-2, Ted Christopher 3-86, Jimmy Blewett 87-90, Eric Beers 91-109, Donny Lia 110, Eric Beers 111-113, Donny Lia 114-150.

Total Laps Led: Ted Christopher 84, Donny Lia 38, Eric Beers 22, Jimmy Blewett 4, James Civali 2. 6 changes involving 5 drivers.

Unofficial Top 20 Driver Points: Jimmy Blewett 602, James Civali 599, Matt Hirschman* 597, Donny Lia 584, Todd Szegedy 573, Zach Sylvester 519, Jerry Marquis 512,
Mike Stefanik 503, Ronnie Silk 499, Jamie Tomaino 489, Chuck Hossfeld 479, Eric Beers 467,
Billy Pauch, Jr. * 464, Eddie Flemke 462, Dick Houlihan 460, Bobby Grigas * 450,
Richard Savary * 441, Reggie Ruggiero 429, Ted Christopher 427, John Blewett, III 407

Next Race:Thompson, CT

* Denotes Rookie of the Year Contender

BUD POLE AWARD:
1st Qualifying race - Reggie Ruggiero,
2nd Qualifying race - John Blewett, III

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

WINNER JIMMY BLEWETT

MARY HODGE PHOTO

Jimmy Blewett Wins At Wall

Wall Township, N.J. (May 6, 2007) Jimmy Blewett of Howell, N.J. drove to his first NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour victory of the season by besting his brother, John , at Wall Township Speedway. Blewett passed Reggie Ruggiero of Rocky Hill, Conn. on the second lap and led the rest of the event. Ruggiero and John Blewett, swapped the second position before John Blewett, kept if for good on lap 38.

It was the first time brothers had finished first and second in a NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour event since Mike and Ted Christopher accomplished the feat in 2004 at New Hampshire International Speedway.

Blewett’s second career win occurred in the first Flash Format race of the 2007 season. The Flash Format features qualifying races and a sprint distance feature. The Thunder at the Shore race distance was 50 laps. Blewett unofficially takes over the point lead by 31 points over Matt Hirschman.

Ruggiero, winner of the last series race at Wall, was third. Ted Christopher of Plainville, Conn. was fourth and defending series champion Mike Stefanik of Coventry, R.I. rounded out the Top-5.

The 50 lap qualifying race winners were Ruggiero and John Blewett, III

The next event for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour is at the Stafford Motor Speedway in Stafford Springs, Conn. on May 25.

NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR-Thunder At The Shore Results

Sunday At Wall Township Speedway - Wall Township, NJ

Lap length: 0.333 miles - Start position in parentheses

1. (3) Jimmy Blewett, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 50 laps, $4,200.
2. (2) John Blewett, III, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 50, $2,700.
3. (1) Reggie Ruggiero, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, 50, $2,100.
4. (4) Ted Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Chevrolet, 50, $2,000.
5. (9) Mike Stefanik, Coventry, R.I., Chevrolet, 50, $2,500.
6. (7) Matt Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Dodge, 50, $2,000.
7. (11) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, Conn., Chevrolet, 50, $1,900.
8. (5) Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, Conn., Ford, 50, $1,950.
9. (13) Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook, Conn., Chevrolet, 50, $1,600.
10. (10) Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown, N.J., Dodge, 50, $1,600.
11. (20) Jamie Tomaino, Howell, N.J., Ford, 50, $1,350.
12. (25) Joseph Hartmann, Calverton, N.Y., Chevrolet, 50, $1,425.
13. (19) Danny Sammons, Trenton, N.J., Chevrolet, 50, $1,125.
14. (12) Donny Lia, Jericho, N.Y., Dodge, 50, $1,375.
15. (26) Eddie Flemke, Southington, Conn., Chevrolet, 50, $1,130.
16. (6) Chuck Hossfeld, Buffalo, N.Y., Pontiac, 50, $1,300.
17. (30) Rob Summers, Manchester, Conn., Pontiac, 49, $975.
18. (16) Rowan Pennink, Huntingdon Valley, Pa., Chevrolet, 49, $525.
19. (28) Ron Yuhas, Groton, Conn., Chevrolet, 49, $900.
20. (17) James Civali, Meriden, Conn., Chevrolet, 44, $1,275.
21. (29) Eric Beers, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 42, $1,225.
22. (31) Jimmy Storace, Kingston, N.H., Chevrolet, 38, suspension, $1,100.
23. (22) Wade Cole, Riverton, Conn., Chevrolet, 37, accident, $775.
24. (18) Anthony Sesely, Matawan, N.J., Chevrolet, 37, bumper, $725.
25. (15) Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater, Mass., Chevrolet, 34, $1,000.
26. (21) Jon McKennedy, Chelmsford, Mass., Chevrolet, 32, $300.
27. (14) Ryan Preece, Kensington, CT, Chevrolet, 32, $300.
28. (24) Ken Woolley, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 28, accident, $300.
29. (8) Bobby Grigas, Marshfield, MA, Chevrolet, 30, accident, $600.
30. (23) Richard Savary, Canton, Mass., Chevrolet, 29, $600.
31. (27) Zach Sylvester, Lebanon, Conn., Pontiac, 28, accident, $1,100.

Failed to Qualify: (5) Kevin Goodale (#58), Jake Marosz (#9), Glen Tyler * (#8), Anthony Ferrante, Jr (#31), Renee Dupuis (#90).

Margin of Victory: 1.6 seconds

FEATHERLITE MOST IMPROVED DRIVER AWARD: John Blewett, III, 66 Blewett Motorsports Chevrolet

POWERADE POWER MOVE OF THE RACE: Joseph Hartmann *, 05 WMS Construction Chevrolet

SUNOCO ROOKIE OF THE RACE: Billy Pauch, Jr. *, 06 Greenfield Dodge Dodge

WHELEN ENGINEERING WINNER OF THE RACE: Jimmy Blewett, 12 T.S. Haulers/ United Crane Chevrolet

BUD POLE AWARD: 1st Qualifying race; Reggie Ruggiero, 2nd Qualifying race; John Blewett, III

Lap Leaders: Reggie Ruggiero 1, Jimmy Blewett 2-50.

Total Laps Led: Jimmy Blewett 49, Reggie Ruggiero 1. 1 changes involving 2 drivers.

Unofficial Top 20 Driver Points: Jimmy Blewett 478, Matt Hirschman * 447, James Civali 429, Todd Szegedy 418, Chuck Hossfeld 409, Donny Lia 404, Jerry Marquis 403, Ronnie Silk 399, Mike Stefanik 376, Billy Pauch, Jr. * 361, Zach Sylvester 359, Ted Christopher 348, Reggie Ruggiero 344, Bobby Grigas * 344, Jamie Tomaino 343, Eric Beers 333, John Blewett, III 325, Dick Houlihan 318, Kevin Goodale 309, Jimmy Storace 306

Next Race:Stafford Springs, Conn.

* Denotes Rookie of the Year Contender

MARY HODGE PHOTO

DONNY LIA LEAVES STAFFORD A WINNER

STAFFORD SPRINGS, Conn. (April 29, 2007) -- Donny Lia of Jericho, N.Y. passed Todd Szegedy of Ridgefield, Conn. with three laps to go to win the Carquest Tech Net Spring Sizzler NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race at Stafford Motor Speedway. Lia and Szegedy swapped the lead three times over the final 29 laps, twice within the final five. Szegedy made a final charge off Turn 4 on the final lap but fell .13 seconds short.

It was the 6th career win for Lia and his at Stafford. It was also the first Sizzler win for Lia’s car owner Bob Garbarino. Lia is in his first year driving for Gabarino and the Mystic Missile race team.

“I’ve been trying to win at Stafford for five years,” said Lia. “Today it showed being in the right situation with the right guy makes all the difference.”

Szegedy, the 2003 series champion, came from the 22nd starting position in the Wisk/Snuggle Ford to earn his first Top-5 finish of the season. Former champion Jerry Marquis of Broad Brook, Conn. finished third in the Reynolds Auto Wrecking Chevrolet. Defending series champion Mike Stefanik of Coventry, R.I. finished fourth after taking a provisional starting position in the Diversified Metals Chevrolet. Zach Sylvester of Lebanon, Conn. rounded out the Top-5 in the Racing Against Cancer Pontiac.

There were 11 lead changes during the race among 11 drivers. James Civali maintained the series point lead by 28 points over Jimmy Blewett.

The next event for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour is at Wall Township Speedway in Wall, N.J. on May 6.

NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR-CARQUEST TECH-NET SPRING SIZZLER Results

Sunday, April 29th at Stafford Motor Speedway, Stafford Springs, CT

Lap length: 0.5 miles

(Start position in parentheses)

1. (8) Donny Lia, Jericho, N.Y., Dodge, 200 laps, 55.147 mph, $8,200.
2. (22) Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, Conn., Ford, 200, $4,800.
3. (10) Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook, Conn., Chevrolet, 200, $3,500.
4. (29) Mike Stefanik, Coventry, R.I., Chevrolet, 200, $4,500.
5. (13) Zach Sylvester, Lebanon, Conn., Pontiac, 200, $3,000.
6. (1) Tony Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 200, $2,400.
7. (3) James Civali, Meriden, Conn., Chevrolet, 200, $2,600.
8. (4) Matt Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Dodge, 200, $2,750.
9. (12) Jimmy Blewett, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 200, $2,100.
10. (25) Jamie Tomaino, Howell, N.J., Ford, 200, $1,700.
11. (27) Bobby Grigas, Marshfield, MA, Chevrolet, 200, $1,800.
12. (28) Kevin Goodale, Riverhead, NY, Chevrolet, 200, $1,475.
13. (18) Chuck Hossfeld, Buffalo, N.Y., Pontiac, 200, $1,825.
14. (17) Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater, Mass., Chevrolet, 200, $1,775.
15. (15) Richard Savary, Canton, Mass., Chevrolet, 200, $1,350.
16. (33) Wade Cole, Riverton, Conn., Chevrolet, 200, $1,425.
17. (26) Renee Dupuis, Glastonbury, Conn., Chevrolet, 199, $1,400.
18. (30) Anthony Sesely, Matawan, N.J., Chevrolet, 196, $1,365.
19. (6) Ted Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Chevrolet, 191, $1,450.
20. (31) Eric Beers, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 183, $1,725.
21. (19) Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown, N.J., Dodge, 180, $1,200
22. (7) Danny Sammons, Trenton, N.J., Chevrolet, 175, accident, $1,275.
23. (23) Eddie Flemke, Southington, Conn., Chevrolet, 174, $1,325.
24. (32) Jimmy Storace, Kingston, N.H., Chevrolet, 172, $1,500.
25. (5) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, Conn., Chevrolet, 167, accident, $1,450.
26. (2) Reggie Ruggiero, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, 165, accident, $1,150.
27. (21) Ron Yuhas, Groton, Conn., Chevrolet, 154, $1,150.
28. (16) John Blewett, III, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 124, accident, $1,150.
29. (11) Rick Fuller, Auburn, Mass., Chevrolet, 115, accident, $750.
30. (14) Frank Ruocco, Cheshire, Conn., Pontiac, 114, accident, $750.
31. (20) Rob Summers, Manchester, Conn., Pontiac, 25, accident, $1,150.
32. (9) Bobby Santos, III, Millis, Mass., Chevrolet, 19, accident, $750.
33. (24) Carl Pasteryak, Lisbon, Conn., Pontiac, 19, accident, $1,050.

Failed to Qualify: ( 9) Jon McKennedy (#73), Chris Pasteryak (#5), Glen Tyler * (#8), Rowan Pennink * (#93), Dave Etheridge (#54), Joseph Hartmann * (#05), Ryan Preece * (#40), Gary McDonald (#26), Jake Marosz (#9).

Time of Race:1 hrs., 48 mins, 48 secs Average Speed: 55.147 mph Margin of Victory:.13 Seconds

BUD POLE AWARD: Matt Hirschman *, 59 Furnace and Duct Dodge

FEATHERLITE MOST IMPROVED DRIVER AWARD: Mike Stefanik, 16 Diversified Metals Chevrolet

POWERADE POWER MOVE OF THE RACE: Mike Stefanik, 16 Diversified Metals Chevrolet

SUNOCO ROOKIE OF THE RACE: Bobby Grigas *, 09 Triple G Scaffolding Chevrolet

WHELEN ENGINEERING WINNER OF THE RACE: Donny Lia, 4 Mystic Missile Dodge

Caution Flags: Laps 15-19; 20-26; 48-53; 74-80; 87-91; 110-116; 117-123; 124-128; 135-138; 150-154; 156-158; 159-163; 176-182; 193-195. 14 for 76 laps.

Lap Leaders: Tony Hirschman 1-26, Ted Christopher 27-111, Mike Stefanik 112-122, Jerry Marquis 123-137, Todd Szegedy 138, Jerry Marquis 139-153, Todd Szegedy 154, Jerry Marquis 155-167, Todd Szegedy 168-171, Donny Lia 172-195, Todd Szegedy 196-197, Donny Lia 198-200.

Total Laps Led: Ted Christopher 85, Jerry Marquis 43, Donny Lia 27, Tony Hirschman 26, Mike Stefanik 11, Todd Szegedy 8. 11 changes involving 6 drivers.

Unofficial Top 20 Driver Points: James Civali 326, Jimmy Blewett 298, Matt Hirschman * 297, Chuck Hossfeld 294, Zach Sylvester 289, Donny Lia 283, Todd Szegedy 276, Bobby Grigas * 268, Jerry Marquis 265, Ronnie Silk 253, Kevin Goodale 242, Eric Beers 233, Dick Houlihan 230, Richard Savary * 230, Billy Pauch, Jr. * 227, Mike Stefanik 221, Tony Hirschman 220, Jamie Tomaino 213, Carl Pasteryak 210, Jimmy Storace 209

Next Race:Wall, N.J.

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

Matt Hirschman Sets a New Mark
In Qualifying At Stafford

STAFFORD SPRINGS, Conn. (April 28, 2007) Matt Hirschman of Northampton, Pa. set a new track record in qualifying for Sunday’s Carquest Tech Net Spring Sizzler NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race at Stafford Motor Speedway. Hirschman’s time of 18.009 seconds for an average speed of 99.950 mph bested the previous mark set last year by Todd Szegedy of 18.091 seconds and an average speed of 99.497 mph.

It was the second consecutive race in which the qualifying track record had been broken. Szegedy set fast time at Thompson International Speedway two weeks ago to establish a new track record there.

Matt Hirschman was 45/100th of a second faster then his father, Tony, in qualifying. Tony Hirschman, a five time series champion, averaged 99.701 mph in his qualifying run. Reggie Ruggiero of Rocky Hill, Conn. was third fastest with a speed of 99.673 mph. Last week’s winner, James Civali of Meriden, Conn., was fourth fastest with a speed of 99.448 mph. Ted Christopher of Plainville, Conn. rounded out the Top-5 in qualifying with a speed of 99.179 mph.

The Top-8 qualifiers drew for starting position. Tony Hirschman will start from the pole and will be joined by Ruggiero on the front row. Civali and Matt Hirschman will make up row number two.

STAFFORD SPRINGS, Conn. Starting Lineup for Sunday’s Carquest Tech Net Spring Sizzler NASCARWhelen Modified Tour race at Stafford Motor Speedway showing car number, driver, hometown, make of car and qualifying speed in mph. The Top-8 qualifiers drew for starting position.

1. (48)Tony Hirschman, Northampton Pa., Chevrolet, 99.701
2. (14)Reggie Ruggiero, Rocky Hill Conn., Chevrolet, 99.673
3. (28)James Civali, Meriden Conn., Chevrolet, 99.448
4. (59)Matt Hirschman, Northampton Pa., Dodge, 99.950
5. (19)Ronnie Silk, Norwalk Conn., Chevrolet, 99.053
6. (36)Ted Christopher, Plainville Conn., Chevrolet, 99.179
7. (0)Danny Sammons, Trenton N.J., Chevrolet, 99.081
8. (4)Donny Lia, Jericho N.Y., Dodge, 99.026
9. (3)Bobby Santos, III, Millis Mass., Chevrolet, 98.988
10. (00)Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook Conn., Chevrolet, 98.863
11. (13)Rick Fuller, Auburn Mass., Chevrolet, 98.863
12. (12)Jimmy Blewett, Howell N.J., Chevrolet, 98.825
13. (77)Zach Sylvester, Lebanon Conn., Pontiac, 98.793
14. (91)Frank Ruocco, Cheshire Conn., Pontiac, 98.782
15. (21)Richard Savary, Canton Mass., Chevrolet, 98.755
16. (66)John Blewett, III, Howell N.J., Chevrolet, 98.636
17. (46)Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater Mass., Chevrolet, 98.582
18. (79)Chuck Hossfeld, Buffalo N.Y., Pontiac, 98.576
19. (06)Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown N.J., Dodge, 98.571
20. (1)Rob Summers, Manchester Conn., Pontiac, 98.479
21. (6)Ron Yuhas, Groton Conn., Chevrolet, 98.285
22. (2)Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield Conn., Ford, 98.248
23. (10)Eddie Flemke, Southington Conn., Chevrolet, 98.237
24. (75)Carl Pasteryak, Lisbon Conn., Pontiac, 98.226
25. (99)Jamie Tomaino, Howell N.J., Ford, 98.200
26. (90)Renee Dupuis, Glastonbury Conn., Chevrolet, 98.114
27. (09)Bobby Grigas, Marshfield Mass., Chevrolet, 98.103
28. (58)Kevin Goodale, Riverhead N.Y., Chevrolet, 98.034
29. (16)Mike Stefanik, Coventry R.I., Chevrolet, Provisional
30. (11)Anthony Sesely, Matawan N.J., Chevrolet, Provisional
31. (94)Eric Beers, Northampton Pa., Chevrolet, Provisional
32. (47)Jimmy Storace, Kingston N.H., Chevrolet, Provisional
33. (33)Wade Cole, Riverton Conn., Chevrolet, Provisional

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

No Sophomore Jinx For Civali

THOMPSON, Conn. (April 22, 2007) - James Civali of Meriden, Conn. held off a last lap charge by Chuck Hossfeld of Buffalo, N.Y. to capture the opening race of the 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour season. Civali’s victory in the Icebreaker at Thompson International Speedway was his second career win. His last victory occurred at Stafford Motor Speedway in August of 2006.

Civali, the 2006 Sunoco Rookie of the Year, started the event in the 11th position in the Ramar Hall Chevrolet and took over the top spot from Donny Lia on lap 98. He swapped the lead with John Blewett, II before regaining it on lap 110 and never relinquished it. A green-white-checkered finish set up by a late race caution allowed Hossfeld, in the Hill Enterprises/ Coors Light Pontiac, the opportunity to make his bid for the win. He fell short of Civali by .26 seconds. The race distance was extended to 152 laps.

Ronnie Silk of Norwalk, Conn. earned his best career finish with a third place showing in the Major Motion/Silk Plumbing and Heating Chevrolet. Jimmy Blewett of Howell, N.J. finished fourth in the T.S Haulers/United Crane Chevrolet and also earned the Featherlite Most Improved driver Award. Matt Hirschman of Northampton, Pa. rounded out the Top-5 in the Furnace and Duct Dodge.

Ted Christopher led the first 23 laps before Lia took over the top spot on lap 24. Lia, who tried to run the event without stopping for tires, held the lead until Civali passed him on 98.

Eric Beers earned the Powerade Power Move of the Race and Bobby Grigas was the Sunoco Rookie of the Race.

The next event for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour is the Tech-Net Spring Sizzler on April 29.

Unofficial Finish of Sunday’s Icebreaker NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race at Thompson International Speedway showing starting position in parentheses, driver, make of car, laps completed, winner’s average speed reason out if any, and money won.

1. (11) James Civali, Meriden, Conn., Chevrolet, 152 laps, 64.455 mph, $7,900.
2. (17) Chuck Hossfeld, Buffalo, N.Y., Pontiac, 152, $3,600.
3. (12) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, Conn., Chevrolet, 152, $2,750.
4. (24) Jimmy Blewett, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 152, $3,050.
5. (7) Matt Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Dodge, 152, $2,450.
6. (19) Anthony Ferrante, Jr, Franklin Square, Chevrolet, 152, $1,550.
7. (21) Carl Pasteryak, Lisbon, Conn., Pontiac, 152, $1,450.
8. (22) Jon McKennedy, Chelsford, Mass., Chevrolet, 152, $1,350.
9. (26) Bobby Grigas, Marshfield, MA, Chevrolet, 152, $1,500.
10. (4) Zach Sylvester, Lebanon, Conn., Pontiac, 152, $1,950.
11. (35) Eric Beers, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 152, $1,725.
12. (34) Billy Pauch, Jr., Frenchtown, N.J., Dodge, 152, $1,420.
13. (18) Nevin George, Kunkletown, Pa., Pontiac, 152, $1,115.
14. (29) Rowan Pennink, Huntingdon Valley, Pa., Chevrolet, 152, $1,110.
15. (15) Jimmy Storace, Kingston, N.H., Chevrolet, 152, $1,455.
16. (32) Kevin Goodale, Riverhead, NY, Chevrolet, 152, $1,050.
17. (1) Richard Savary, Canton, Mass., Chevrolet, 152, $1,322.
18. (28) Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater, Mass., Chevrolet, 152, $1,675.
19. (6) Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, Conn., Ford, 147, rear end, $2,200.
20. (3) Donny Lia, Jericho, N.Y., Dodge, 147, rear end, $1,625.
21. (16) Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook, Conn., Chevrolet, 144, $1,400.
22. (23) Ron Yuhas, Groton, Conn., Chevrolet, 143, accident, $1,550.
23. (33) Reggie Ruggiero, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, 143, accident, $1,225.
24. (30) Rob Summers, Manchester, Conn., Pontiac, 143, accident, $1,500.
25. (37) Rick Fuller, Auburn, Mass., Chevrolet, 137, accident, $790.
26. (20) Eddie Flemke, Southington, Conn., Chevrolet, 133, $1,580.
27. (2) Ted Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Chevrolet, 131, $1,570.
28. (27) Jamie Tomaino, Howell, N.J., Ford, 131, $1,460.
29. (14) John Blewett, III, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 118, overheating, $1,150.
30. (25) Anthony Sesely, Matawan, N.J., Chevrolet, 112, $1,450.
31. (5) Tony Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 99, accident, $1,550.
33. (9) Bobby Santos, III, Millis, Mass., Chevrolet, 71, accident, $1,050.
33. (10) Danny Sammons, Trenton, N.J., Chevrolet, 68, accident, $1,150.
34. (8) Mike Stefanik, Coventry, R.I., Chevrolet, 33, accident, $2,150.
35. (13) Renee Dupuis, Glastonbury, Conn., Chevrolet, 24, accident, $1,150.
36. (36) Wade Cole, Riverton, Conn., Chevrolet, 22, ignition, $1,150.
37. (31) Eric Berndt, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, 0, engine, $1,150.

Failed to Qualify: (10) Glen Tyler * (#8), Jeff Malave (#17), Ryan Preece * (#40), Roy Seidell, Jr (#27), Joseph Hartmann * (#05), Chris Pasteryak (#5), Jake Marosz (#9), Ken Bouchard (#55), Gary McDonald (#26), Ken Heagy (#38).

Time of Race:1 hrs., 28 mins, 26 secs Average Speed: 64.455 mph Margin of Victory:.26 Seconds

BUD POLE AWARD: Todd Szegedy, 2 Wisk/Snuggle Ford

FEATHERLITE MOST IMPROVED DRIVER AWARD: Jimmy Blewett, 12 T.S. Haulers/ United Crane Chevrolet

POWERADE POWER MOVE OF THE RACE: Eric Beers, 94 Newtown Exxon/Sunoco Chevrolet

SUNOCO ROOKIE OF THE RACE: Bobby Grigas *, 09 Triple G Scaffolding Chevrolet

WHELEN ENGINEERING WINNER OF THE RACE: James Civali, 28 Ramar-Hall/Liberty Limousine Chevrolet

Caution Flags: Laps 19-23; 24-29; 35-38; 69-74; 85-90; 94-97; 100-104; 118-121; 126-129; 138-143; 144-150. 11 for 57 laps.

Lap Leaders: Ted Christopher 1-23, Donny Lia 24-97, James Civali 98-106, John Blewett, III 107-109, James Civali 110-152.

Total Laps Led: Donny Lia 74, James Civali 52, Ted Christopher 23, John Blewett, III 3. 4 changes involving 4 drivers.

Top 20 Driver Points: James Civali 180, Chuck Hossfeld 170, Ronnie Silk 165, Jimmy Blewett 160, Matt Hirschman * 155, Anthony Ferrante, Jr 150, Carl Pasteryak 146, Jon McKennedy 142, Bobby Grigas * 138, Zach Sylvester 134, Eric Beers 130, Billy Pauch, Jr. * 127, Nevin George 124, Rowan Pennik * 121, Jimmy Storace 118, Kevin Goodale 115, Richard Savary * 112, Dick Houlihan 109, Todd Szegedy 106, Donny Lia 103

Next Race: Stafford Springs, CT

HOWIE HODGE PHOTO

Szegedy Sets Fast Time;
Icebreaker Postponed To April 22

THOMPSON, Conn. — Todd Szegedy of Northampton, Pa., began the 2007 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Season by setting a new track record in qualifying for the Icebreaker at Thompson International Speedway.

Szegedy, the 2003 series champion, toured the 5/8-mile speedway in 18.457 seconds for an average speed of 121.905 seconds. Szegedy’s fast lap bettered the old mark of 18.505 seconds set by Bob Polverari in 2001.

Because of the threat of inclement weather on Sunday, the race has been postponed until next Sunday, April 22.

Former Champion Tony Hirschman of Northampton, Pa., was second fastest with a speed of 121.340 mph. Zach Sylvester of Lebanon, Conn., was third fastest with a speed of 120.948 mph. Donny Lia of Jericho, N.Y.; Ted Christopher of Plainville, Conn.; and Richard Savary of Canton, Mass., rounded out the top-6 in qualifying.

The top-6 qualifiers drew for starting position and the draw resulted in a complete invert. Savary will lead the field to green while Szegedy will start sixth.

Mike Stefanik of Coventry, R.I. is the defending Icebreaker champion.

Starting Lineup for the Sunday, April 22, Icebreaker NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race at Thompson International Speedway, showing starting position, car number, driver, hometown , make of car and qualifying speed.

1. 21 Richard Savary, Canton, Mass., Chevrolet, 120.469 mph.
2. 36 Ted Christopher, Plainville, Conn., Chevrolet, 120.527.
3. 4 Donny Lia, Jericho, N.Y., Dodge, 120.695.
4. 77 Zach Sylvester, Lebanon, Conn., Pontiac, 120.948.
5. 48 Tony Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, 121.340.
6. 2 Todd Szegedy, Ridgefield, Conn., Ford, 121.905.
7. 59 Matt Hirschman, Northampton, Pa., Dodge, 120.424.
8. 16 Mike Stefanik, Coventry, R.I., Chevrolet, 120.366.
9. 3 Bobby Santos III, Millis, Mass., Chevrolet, 120.359.
10. 0 Danny Sammons, Trenton, N.J., Chevrolet, 120.173.
11. 28 James Civali, Meriden, Conn., Chevrolet, 120.141.
12. 19 Ronnie Silk, Norwalk, Conn., Chevrolet, 120.077.
13. 90 Renee Dupuis, Glastonbury, Conn., Chevrolet, 119.987.
14. 66 John Blewett III, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 119.981.
15. 47 Jimmy Storace, Kingston, N.H., Chevrolet, 119.949.
16. 00 Jerry Marquis, Broad Brook, Conn., Chevrolet, 119.834.
17. 79 Chuck Hossfeld, Buffalo, N.Y., Pontiac, 119.700.
18. 63 Nevin George, Kunkletown, Pa., Pontiac, 119.694.
19. 31 Anthony Ferrante Jr., Franklin Square, N.Y., Chevrolet, 119.668.
20. 10 Eddie Flemke, Southington, Conn., Chevrolet, 119.643.
21. 75 Carl Pasteryak, Lisbon, Conn., Pontiac, 119.643.
22. 73 Jon McKennedy, Chelsford, Mass., Chevrolet, 119.535.
23. 6 Ron Yuhas, Groton, Conn., Chevrolet, 119.503.
24. 12 Jimmy Blewett, Howell, N.J., Chevrolet, 119.490.
25. 11 Anthony Sesely, Matawan, N.J., Chevrolet, 119.287.
26. 09 Bobby Grigas, Marshfield, Mass., Chevrolet, 119.148.
27. 99 Jamie Tomaino, Howell, N.J., Ford, 119.111.
28. 46 Dick Houlihan, Bridgewater, Mass., Chevrolet, 118.966.
29. 93 Rowan Pennick, Huntingdon Valley, Pa., Chevrolet, 118.828.
30. 1 Rob Summers, Manchester, Conn., Pontiac, 118.759.
31. 64 Eric Berndt, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, 118.759.
32. 58 Kevin Goodale, Riverhead, N.Y., Chevrolet, 118.577.
33. 14 Reggie Ruggiero, Rocky Hill, Conn., Chevrolet, provisional.
34. 06 Billy Pauch Jr., Frenchtown, N.J., Dodge, provisional.
35. 94 Eric Beers, Northampton, Pa., Chevrolet, provisional.
36. 33 Wade Cole, Riverton, Conn. Chevrolet provisional.
37. 13 Rick Fuller, Auburn, Mass., Chevrolet, provisional.

NOTE: The top-6 qualifiers drew for starting position.

SZEGEDY IS SET FOR THE ICEBREAKER

Daytona Beach , Fla. (April 8, 2007) -- When the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour concluded its season in 2006, Todd Szegedy was sitting in Victory Lane at Stafford ( Conn. ) Motor Speedway. With the Tour opener slated for April 15 at Thompson ( Conn. ) International Speedway, Szegedy is hoping to carry the momentum into 2007.

“That was a great way to finish out the year,” Szegedy said. “It was my first year driving for Mike Smeriglio and we ended up with two wins during the season..”

The Icebreaker is the traditional opening event for NASCAR’s oldest open-wheeled series. It’s the first of five events scheduled to be run at Thompson during the 2007 season. Szegedy’s other victory in 2006 came in the June race at Thompson and the 5/8-mile track is one in which he enjoys competing at.

“One of my goals was to win a race at Thompson,” Szegedy said, “and I was able to accomplish that last season.”

There will be some changes in 2007 to the Wisk/Snuggle Ford race team Szegedy drives for. Phil Moran, crew chief for Szegedy last year, has headed down south and is working for Bill Davis Racing.

“Mike Paquette will be the crew chief at the start of the season,” Szegedy said. “Mike is also going to be working with Ryan Stone, who joined the team in the offseason.”

Another individual who is back with Szegedy is Don Barker. Barker owned the cars Szegedy drove to a championship in 2003.

“Don is going to have a role of a team manager,” Szegedy said. “It’s great having him work with us this year.”

Szegedy has a lot of confidence heading onto the season.

“We’ve tested good,” he said. “We are capable of top-five or top-10 finishes every week, which is what you need to win a championship. I am excited about the upcoming season.”

The 150-lap Icebreaker is scheduled to get the green at 3:15 p.m. on Sunday April 15 to start the 23rd year for the series.

ICEBREAKER 2007 NOTES

* Posted awards are $89,186 for the 150-lap race. Bud Pole qualifying is scheduled for 2:45 pm on Saturday, April 14 to determine positions 1-32. Four provisional starting positions (two owner & two driver) based on 2006 Whelen Modified Tour point standings and one past champion provisional are available for a maximum starting field of 37 cars.

* The Icebreaker will start at approximately 3:15 p.m. on Sunday, April 15.

* Mike Stefanik is the defending champion of the Icebreaker. He also won this event in 1998.

* As of April 6, 27 teams have filed entries for the Icebreaker.

* The Icebreaker will be the first of five series events scheduled to be held at Thompson in 2007.

* Several other drivers currently competing on the series have scored icebreaker wins. They are: Ted Christopher (2004 and 2005) Chuck Hossfeld (2003) Tony Hirschman (1990), Mike Ewanitsko (1988 and 1999), Rick Fuller (1991, 1997, and 2001) and Jerry Marquis (2002)

* Thompson International Speedway has hosted more Whelen Modified Tour races than any other speedway. There have been 91 series events at Thompson since 1985 including the first series race on March 31, 1985.

* Drivers currently competing in the series who raced at the 1985 Icebreaker are: Ken Bouchard, Rick Fuller, Carl Pasteryak and Jamie Tomaino.

* Special Awards for the 2007 season include the $600 Bud Pole Award to the driver with the fastest qualifying time. The $500 Featherlite Most Improved Driver Award will go to the driver who improves their finishing position the highest from the previous event. And the $600 Powerade Power Move of the Race Award will be paid to the driver who advances the most positions during the race. Whelen Engineering will award $ 500.00 to the winner of the race. Sunoco Race Fuels will award $300 to the highest finishing eligible rookie.

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