2006 Diecast ON SALE NOW!
The Bader Family and John Force Racing are proud to release the fifth
Action Collectibles Diecast in the popular series that began in 2002 in
conjunction with the Fortieth Anniversary Celebration of Norwalk
Raceway Park.
Norwalk President Bill Bader, Jr., released the
artists rendering on Monday. “I am proud to release this diecast in
honor of the American Soldier,” Bader said. “As a country embroiled in
a war protecting our safety at home and abroad, it is important to
remember the men and women who face this conflict with honor and
valor. I am very proud to offer this diecast in honor of their
service.”
The 2006 diecast pays tribute to the American Soldier
in a unique camouflage paint scheme that flows into a red white and
blue pattern, giving the car a tremendous patriotic feel. An unnamed
soldier is pictured on the hood. Norwalk will manufacture a life-sized
replica of the diecast for John Force to compete in at Night Under Fire
on July 1.
2007 Marks Night Under Fire Thirtieth Anniversary
Just when you thought the Greatest Show on Earth couldn’t get any better, here comes the Thirtieth Anniversary Celebration!
On the heels of the NFL’s Super Bowl, Norwalk Raceway Park is proud to announce the 2007 edition of Night Under Fire will rival football’s premier showcase of talent, prestige, and success.
Night Under Fire exemplifies the Bader Family’s vision for a sensory overload in sight, sound, and heart-thumping emotion. Night Under Fire seamlessly combines the thrill of a 330 mile an hour Nitro Funny Car competition with the sheer delight of pitting Bob Motz and John Force against each other on Cub Cadet Zero Turns!Advanced Product Design Expands Role at Norwalk
February 21- There are certain components in a race car that fit
together perfectly. And, there are certain companies that fit
perfectly inside the marketing program of Norwalk Raceway Park. Enter
Advanced Product Design.
Recognized at this year’s Bar’s Leaks
Awards Banquet as Manufacturer of the Year, APD has enjoyed a long
history at Norwalk Raceway Park in a relatively short amount of time.
John Kyle, the owner of APD, has embarked on a new marketing program,
expanding his exposure at the track, and increasing his viable,
quality, company to the thousands of racers considering Norwalk the
best stop on the circuit.
Akron Native Steve Oswald Wins Rookie of the Year
Akron Native Steve Oswald took home the prestigious honor of Rookie of the Year at Norwalk Raceway Park’s thirty second annual Bar’s Leaks Awards Banquet. The award was based on his performance this year; his first season in Norwalk’s points program.
Bader Banter Updated With Thoughts from Senior
February 17- The Bader Banter has found its second installment, this time from Bill Bader, Sr. Beginning with the weblog entry from Senior, Bader Banter will be updated each Friday, alternating between Junior and Senior. If you have questions for Father or Son, please email eebinger@norwalkraceway.com and we will make sure the questions are posed and answered. We are also developing a way you will be able to speak with the Bader's in a live "chat" to be announced in an upcoming issue. We hope you enjoy this current issue of Bader Banter. And we are all looking forward to the many twists and turns this unique conversation will take over the course of a year! Click on the Bader Banter button for the latest!
Banquet Videos Now Online!
February 21- Norwalk Raceway Park is pleased to release the five videos previously only seen at the Norwalk Bar’s Leaks Awards Banquet! Included on the link at the bottom called “Norwalk Multi-Media” are the Champions interviews, the opening video (What we call the “False Opening”), the “Where Everybody Knows Your Name” Video, and the Norwalk Team Skit. To View the videos, Click Here
Click on the video you would like to view and allow time for it to download. Each video is a different length. The longest video is the Champions Interview, so please be patient with the time it takes to download!
Norwalk will release more videos throughout the year, including the total interviews from the 2005 champions.
Barney Barnhart Continues Blogging
March 7- Penny must still be recovering from her "sack" experience with Bill Junior, we can see that Barney is the author of the latest blog from Wadsworth. In this latest issue, Barnhart details what March is like for a drag racer. And we should mention Barnhart is no ordinary racer. After winning the Friday edition of the Ten Grand Nationals in 2005, Barnhart went on a winning spree in the Bar's Leaks $50 Grand Slam, winning the last two meets of the season and catapulting himself into the top ten. We are all looking forward to seeing how he does in 06, and reading all about it, too!
Barnhart and Harp Blogs Updated
Pay real close attention to the end of Barney and Penny Barnharts blog
for today. No, we are not kidding and no, I did not place that last
line in there myself. Barney is inviting us all over for dinner in his
pit area. Are you in? Twelve Year Old Cody Harp has also updated his
blog, with exciting adventures of his new friend.
Bill Bader Sportsman of the Year
Imagine what it takes for Bill Bader to become speechless. Saturday night, during Norwalk Raceway Park’s annual awards banquet
honoring track champions and other success stories from the year, the
prestigious honor of Sportsman of the Year was renamed for Bill Bader,
Sr.
Bill Junior Sticks His Neck Out in 'Bader Banter'
February 22- Another update from Bill Junior, this time, he must have written his blog while “under the influence” of something, because we are privy to a few details of his banquet experience, including this one: “By the way, I want to offer a special thanks to Penny for an amazing night; even though we were only in bed for a few minutes it seemed to last forever! Truly mind bending… Who said you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?” Oh my, maybe this Bader Banter wasn’t such a good idea. Enjoy the latest issue- Click on Bader Banter to get the whole scoop from the man behind the President’s Desk.
Bill Lehmann of Mentor, Ohio Wins Caption Contest
March 5- Congratulations to Bill Lehmann for submitting the winning
caption to the picture of the man sitting in the stands at Norwalk.
"They run out of ice cream on me, I'm not gonna watch." Bill has won a
four pack of tickets to the first Outlaw Street competition on May 26
and a pizza and pitcher of pop for him and his friends. Norwalk will
release a new caption contest in the future, as it turned out to be
quite fun. The man in the picture, of course, is Ron Moore, one of
Norwalk Raceway Park's oldest drivers. Thank you to everyone who
participated in the contest.
Bill Senior Shares a Serious Side in Updated Bader Banter
March 6- He has named himself "The Elder Bader," and this week his Bader Banter column reveals a wisdom we have all come to miss. Thankfully, through the magic of the Internet, we can all keep in touch with Bill Bader, Sr. If you have any questions for him, please do not hesitate to email eebinger@norwalkraceway.com and I will make sure he gets it. And you can be assured he will answer it. Stay tuned at the end of this week for an update from Bill Bader, Jr. For now, click on Bader Banter for the latest from the retired but not tired Elder.
Bud is Back!!
February 13- Norwalk Raceway Park is proud to announce the return of Anheuser Busch as a member of the Norwalk Family. Bill Bader, Jr., President of Norwalk Raceway Park, announced the new sponsorship in conjunction with Maple City Ice Company, Norwalk’s local distributor for Anheuser Busch.
Dave Perrotti Enters Norwalk's Hall of Fame
Dave Perrotti is the newest inductee into Norwalk Raceway Park’s Hall of Fame this Saturday, accepting the prestigious Bill Bader Sportsman of the Year trophy.
Diana Murphy Wins Most Improved
By day she is a grandmother and homemaker, by Saturday night she is behind the wheel of a 69 Camaro, speeding the Norwalk Raceway Park quarter mile at 140 miles an hour. Diana Murphy is also Norwalk’s Most Improved of 2005, an honor bestowed on the driver who makes the greatest impact on their point standings in just one year’s time.
DNA Entertainment Signs on as Official DJ of Hot Norwalk Nights
February 16- Norwalk Raceway Park is proud to announce the Norwalk-Based DNA Entertainment Team has agreed to become the Official Entertainment Company of Hot Norwalk Nights.
DNA Entertainment is owned and operated by Dave and Shelley Sehl of Norwalk. They are aggressive marketing wizards, and a proven success in a crowded field of disc jockeys. They are heads and shoulders above their competition with regard to energy, music selection, and activities to entertain the masses, be they eighty or eight years old.
Don Garlits to Race at Blue Suede Cruise
July 24- The last time Don Garlits screamed down the Norwalk quarter mile; it was during Norwalk’s 40th Anniversary Celebration at Night Under Fire. He returns in 2006! And he will run again this weekend at the Blue Suede Cruise in an early edition Swamp. He will also be on hand throughout the weekend for autographs and pictures.
Every Wednesday= Hot Hot Hot
March 1- If there is any other place to be this summer than Norwalk, please let me know because I will challenge anyone who has a better time any where else than at Norwalk Raceway Park at Hot Norwalk Nights. The new DJ will be spinning the tunes, the games are new and improved and will surely knock your socks off. The contests and cool prizes are coming, and you won’t believe some of the stuff we have planned- and you won’t believe the people that will do it!
The cars will be draggin the strip, smoking their tires and on display throughout the park, but the hot girls and hot guys will be everywhere. We are the place to be on Wednesdays this summer. Check out our schedule for Block Parties, db drags, Jell-O Wrestling and a new event called Scrapin’ the Strip for the coolest hottest hydraulic cars in the state!
Finish Line Club Entry Form Now Online
February 28- Finish Line Club Forms to compete for the prestigious Bar’s Leaks $50 Grand Slam, the largest year end points fund in history, are now available online! Click on the link below to download the application, and mail it, fax it, or walk it into the Norwalk office to secure your number for the year. The incentives, the payouts, the chance for a spot on the legendary 13 time champions Norwalk Bracket Team is available exclusively to those who join the Norwalk points system. The Finish Line Club entry fee is still only $60. Download the application and enter today!
Funny Cars Fire Up February
Remember the bone chilling excitement of the Funny Car Foxhunt? Have
you missed the sheer fire breathing power of the Jet Car Nationals?
Norwalk Raceway Park President Bill Bader, Jr. has announced both shows
will return in 2006 in one night of extreme drag racing. The Funny Car
Foxhunt/ Jet Car Nationals is set to launch on Memorial Day Weekend,
Saturday, May 27, 2006.
Half Scale Driver Emily Reid Posts New Blog
Febraury 21- Former Half Scale Champion Emily Reid has updated her driver blog. It seems Emily keeps herself busy between a tough academic load, a job at Hallmark, and filling out scholarship applications! In her words, "We haven't even started working on the cars yet! Of course it doesn't help my brother just got a '92 Camaro and the "boys" have been spending all their time fixing that up! I'm saving up for bigger and better though, eventually I would like to race a dragster." Check out the rest of what Emily has to say about the banquet, and her idea of "The Perfect Husband." Click on the Driver Blogs button and then click on Emily Reid!
Here Come the Half Scales
February 28- Imagine the army of Half Scales that comes to the Norwalk Starting Line every season. Brothers and sisters, Moms and Dads, friends and family all cheering on their favorite little people- in one of the most exciting and dramatic competitions of the year for the kids!
The Half Scale Dragster Program, presented by Bear Motorsports is expanded to eleven points meets in 2006. Seventeen year old Kristen Kiger will lead the pack of Seniors as she competes in her final year behind the wheel of a Half Scale.
High School Nationals Coming May 21
February 28- Every day it’s the same routine. You get up, go to school, homework, classes, maybe flirt with the girl next to you, maybe ignore the guy whose trying to flirt with you. But still it’s all the same.
Why not plan on coming to Norwalk Raceway Park May 21 and let your hair down a little? And oh, by the way, if you win the drag race, you earn a $10,000 scholarship! How could Mom and Dad say no? The AC Delco High School Nationals presented by Amalie Motor Oil comes back to Norwalk Raceway Park on May 21 for the biggest and best high school party in the entire Midwest.
Hot Norwalk Nights the Place to be this Summer
February 22- You have to ask yourself- is it too early to start thinking about where you will spend Wednesday nights this summer? There is only one answer- Norwalk Raceway Park!
Most of you are downloading the new videos, and I understand that. But pull yourself away for just a few moments and consider what is in store for this year- it’s Wednesday for crying out loud!
We are planning some major steps at Hot Norwalk Nights to give you a fantastic night of drag racing, but also a fun night off the track as well. Many of you have received your season schedules- take a look at the back and glance down the Hot Norwalk Nights section. We have a new girls class called Slick Chics, we have designated nights for wild Block Parties and Jello Wrestling- even Mud Wrestling, too!
Hot Norwalk Nights- Wait Until You See THIS!
February 14- Norwalk Raceway Park is planning an ambitious strategy for Hot Norwalk Nights this year. Are you ready? Girls still get in for free for a night of dancing, partying, and enough drag racing to make your head spin.
Introducing "Club Nights" on Wednesdays' Hot Norwalk Nights
March 8- Norwalk Raceway Park is pleased to announce a new feature on select Wednesdays at Hot Norwalk Nights! Introducing- “Club Nights” – an exclusive opportunity to join with your buddies and earn points toward a Club Championship! What do you have to do? Well, first, convince three or four or twelve or thirty of your friends, (Ryan Berkel- shoot for at least two friends, you may have to pay them) and have them pitch in some dough for the $35 registration fee. Then, show up for the Club Nights the first Wednesday of each month. As you go rounds, you will earn points for your club. The Clubs will be divided into three classes, depending on the number of buddies you have. Pick a name, pick a strategy, and let’s go drag racing! At the end of the year, the Champion Clubs will get a pizza party and cool T-shirts and hats! Are you ready for this? It’s part of the excitement on Wednesday this year at Norwalk Raceway Park!
Jessie Harris to Join Norwalk at Cleveland Auto-rama
Jessie Harris, the driver of Hanna Motorsport’s Bic Queen of Diamonds Jet Dragster will be on hand the entire weekend of the Cleveland Autorama March 17-19. Harris will sign autographs, pose for pictures, and visit with fans. The popular, personable Harris will be part of Norwalk Raceway Park’s display, and will compete at Norwalk at the Super Chevy Show in May and Night Under Fire July 1.
John Boes Receives 'Clean Bill of Health'
February 23- Last night, an exuberant John Boes exclaimed, “I got a clean bill of health today.” Boes received a very early detection of prostate cancer late last year, and underwent surgery on Valentines Day to remove the cancer.
Boes was his usual upbeat self, proudly remarking that three hours after surgery he was up “harassing nurses.” “It was a silky smooth procedure,” Boes said. “Luckily I had a doctor
who has performed a lot of these, so it wasn’t his first time opening
me up and saying, ‘Hmmm…”
John Force to Star in Reality Show this Summer
PASADENA , CA , FEBRUARY 21, 2006 – A&E Network has begun
production on DRIVING FORCE, a new, fast-paced real-life series
starring racing legend John Force and his three drag-racing daughters.
DRIVING FORCE is scheduled to premiere on A&E this summer.
Like golf’s Tiger Woods and basketball’s Michael Jordan, John Force is
by far the most accomplished and dominant figure in his sport – Drag
Racing. With 119 career victories, an unprecedented 14 team
championships in 15 years, membership on ten straight Auto Racing
All-American teams, and the World Record for consecutive Funny Car
championships, Force has shattered every major record on the drag strip
and then some.
Jordan Photosports Returns as Official Photographer of Norwalk
March 3- Jordan Photosports will return in 2006 as the Official Photographer of Norwalk Raceway Park. Bill Jordan has been a partner with Norwalk since the 2003 season, and provides the best in quality photographs with an onsite printing facility, making it fast and convenient to purchase photos.
Krystowski Tractor Sales Partners with Norwalk
March 2- President Bill Bader, Jr. is pleased to announce Krystowski Tractor Sales, Inc. has signed on as the Official Lawn Care Equipment Company of Norwalk Raceway Park.
The new partnership will provide Norwalk a unique fleet of equipment from the Kubota Tractor Corporation. Paul Bursley, Sales Manager of Krystowski Tractor Sales, Inc. negotiated the marketing program with Norwalk’s Bobbie Maggard. Both share an excitement and enthusiasm for the relationship and its many future opportunities...
Looking into the Mind of Dave Perrotti
February 19- Dave Perrotti has updated his blog, and in this episode he
reveals the thoughts going through his mind as he was chosen as the
2005 Bill Bader Sportsman of the Year. Here's a glimpse: "Well, a
funny thing happened at the end of the awards
presentation. Your's truly was the recipient of Sportsman of the Year.
Let me tell you what, when they announced my name as the winner, a
shiver went right through my body like I've never had before. Not even
when I hear "Paradise by the Dashboard Lights"." Perrotti also talks
about gearing up for 2006 in the IT dragster. Click on the Driver
Blogs button to read all of Perrotti's blog, and stay logged on for
more updates coming in the next few days.
New Holliday Canopy Contest for 2006
March 7- Norwalk Raceway Park is pleased to announce in conjunction with Holliday Canopy, a new contest for the $250 Gift Certificate for Finish Line Club Racers during the fourteen Bar's Leaks $50 Grand Slam Points Meets this season. Holliday Canopy will give away a $250 gift certificate to the winner of a drawing held between the top ten losing reaction times in round one. We will continue to rotate the classes each week, and the winner will be chosen each night during round two. Norwalk is proud to have Holliday Canopy on board for this special incentive to our racers, and we look forward to a season of shade under the best in quality canopies made by Holliday! Did you catch that- We are looking for SHADE!!
New Search Bar Added
March 1- Tom has been a busy little bee. One of the cool updates on our website is a new search bar located in the upper right hand corner. If you are searching for a particular driver, or race, just type in the words and the search bar (give it a few moments) will bring up all the stories and sections of the website having to do with that driver or event! Give it a try right now. Type in John Force… or ice cream… or anything you are searching for.
Consider it one more way www.norwalkraceway.com is attempting to keep you informed as much as possible on all your favorite drivers and events. More cool features coming!
Sansom, Osborne and Baehr Blogs Updated
February 15- Our busy bloggers bloviate best by blustery bovines basking by the bayou. (OK, that was too easy to come up with, very scary.) Our bloggers have been busy with updates, check out the latest musings from Nick Sansom, Gary Osborne and Rick Baehr. Sansom has great stories, Osborne has a new kid to talk about, and Baehr has some great tales to tell from the banquet and his Valentines Day date. More blogs coming soon! Stay logged on! And disregard the read more at the end of this paragraph- you'll have to click on the Driver Blogs logo to get there. Sorry.
Nine Champions Crowned at Norwalk
Nine Champions were crowned at the emotional ceremony at the Clarion Inn in Sandusky, closing the books on the 2005 season season that witnessed a major increase in competition at Norwalk’s Bar’s Leaks $50 Grand Slam presented by Mr. Gasket Company, the largest sportsman racing points fund in the nation.
NOPI X Box Cup Series Speeds into 2006
March 2- The World’s Top Sport Compact Racing Series opens its Fifth Season in Phoenix -
Atlanta, Ga. (February 27, 2006) – The NOPI Drag Racing Series Xbox Cup
Championship (also known as the NDRA) rockets into its fifth season
March 17-18 at Firebird Raceway in Phoenix, AZ, the first stop of a
10-race tour. Billed as “The New Breed of Speed,” the NDRA will
continue to keep things fun, fast and entertaining in 2006 as it adds
new classes and cars, new partners such as RJR Reynolds, NOS Energy
Drink and Torco Fuels, and a talented group of new drivers that will
compete for the series championship.
Norwalk Dragway Pioneer Walt Herzog Passes
The Bader Family was informed earlier this morning of the passing of former contractor Walt Herzog of Sandusky, Ohio.
Bill Bader, Sr. was saddened at the news. “Walt was a very talented and competent contractor,” Bader said Friday morning. “The planning and infrastructure work he did in 1962 and 1963 is still in place today. Walt also worked with Norwalk Raceway owner Vince Schubert in promotion and presenting events.”
Norwalk Expands Contingency Sponsors in 2006
February 15- Norwalk Raceway Park is pleased to announce a new slate of contingency sponsors for the 2006 season. The available cash for winners and runners up has almost doubled, giving Norwalk racers a great chance for a payday of close to $3,500 in one night!
Leading the way, Reher Morrison has added a contingency sponsorship for a complete engine worth $1,000 to the winner of Comp, Top, Modified, and Street.
Norwalk Launches 'Caption Contest'
February 26- Have you got a creative flare for what other people are thinking? Norwalk Raceway Park is launching today a new caption contest for the picture at right. Here is the question, "What is this man thinking, sitting in the stands at Norwalk?" (the man in the black shirt and orange jacket) The winners will receive a four pack of tickets to the seasonal debut of Outlaw Street on May 26, including a free pizza and pitcher of pop! To enter the contest, send your caption and your name and phone number to eebinger@norwalkraceway.com. Good luck!
Norwalk Seeking Merchandise Manager
Norwalk Raceway Park is now accepting resumes for the position of Merchandise & Retail Manager. Norwalk Raceway Park is a motorsports complex specializing in family-oriented entertainment, and is located in Norwalk Ohio.
The qualified candidate must have a minimum of five years of retail management experience and a college degree. The individual must be creative, self-motivated, posses the stamina to work long hours, and have a genuine focus on customer service. Responsibilities include vendor procurement, inventory control, creative design, merchandise buying, daily cash reconciliation, and staff training and retention. The position also manages a merchandise team of twelve individuals during the race season April- October.
Norwalk Seeking Merchandise Manager
March 4- Norwalk Raceway Park is now accepting resumes for the position of
Merchandise & Retail Manager. Norwalk Raceway Park is a
motorsports complex specializing in family-oriented entertainment, and
is located in Norwalk Ohio.
The qualified candidate must have a
minimum of five years of retail management experience and a college
degree. The individual must be creative, self-motivated, posses the
stamina to work long hours, and have a genuine focus on customer
service. Responsibilities include vendor procurement, inventory
control, creative design, merchandise buying, daily cash
reconciliation, and staff training and retention. The position also
manages a merchandise team of twelve individuals during the race season
April- October.
Norwalk Takes Motorcycles to the Extreme
February 25- First, Norwalk Raceway Park blew you away with Outlaw Street, now we are planning the same jaw dropping exasperation with the new heads up series, X-BIKE. It’s as if Norwalk took motorcycles to the Extreme.
On May 26, X-Bike will unload at Norwalk, and the fastest bikes in Ohio, Michigan, and Pennsylvania will converge for the bragging rights everyone has been longing for. Oh, yeah, and the winner takes home $500.
There are only three rules. No slicks, no wheelie bar, and no slider clutches or delay boxes. The riders will qualify for a sixteen bike field. It is just $20 to enter bike and rider.
Norwalk Taking Employment Applications
Do you have some extra time on the weekends? Come and work with the best team in drag racing!
Norwalk to Attend Detroit Autorama
February 21- Last year, the Norwalk Team took home honors for the Outstanding Commerical Display at the Detoit Autorama. In 2006, the award winning team returns for March 3-5 in Detroit. If you are not on our mailing list, please stop by the Norwalk booth to pick up your season schedule, as well as detailed information on the Norwalk Points Program and other great Norwalk activities. Norwalk Raceway Park draws a significant amount of racers from the Detroit area, and we are proud to host our Michigan neighbors throughout the season. If you have any questions, members of the Norwalk staff will be on hand to answer. Stop by and say hello, or just pick up our information; either way, don't miss the Detroit Autorama March 3-5, 2006.
Norwalk to Release 'Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days'
February 26- We are getting close. In fact, give or take a
few days, Norwalk Raceway Park is less than six weeks away from the
Spring Warm Up, a one day test-fest on April 15. What are you waiting
for? Head out to the garage and Get The Car Done!
Nostalgia Race Classes Come to Blue Suede Cruise
The Blue Suede Cruise, July 28-30, will feature an exclusive opportunity for a select number of nostalgia racecars to compete in the first annual PROBELL Nostalgia Race Program at Norwalk Raceway Park.
Drivers must pre-register for the race classes they qualify under. Once the limited field is set, pre-registrations will close. Download the attached registration form today!
Outlaw Street Season Begins May 26
February 28- Outlaw Street lands at Norwalk Raceway Park for a jaw dropping series of six races, bringing together the fastest street-legal cars from Detroit, Cleveland, and Columbus. The “heads up” competition will begin on May 26, 2006- launching a competition that witnessed explosions, stunning wheelstands, and the best side by side drag racing of the year in 2005. The record books were smashed into pieces, and the men and women bringing their Outlaw cars to Norwalk in 06 are sure to put on a display no one will ever forget! Are you sure you can handle this?
Pontiac Excitement Celebrating Fifteen Years at Norwalk
July 31- Pontiac Excitement is alive and well in the Midwest.
The
Ames Performance Tri Power Pontiac Nationals at Norwalk Raceway Park,
the largest Pontiac event of its kind in the nation, is returning this
weekend, August 4, 5 & 6. Combining a spectacular field of drag
racing with a huge car show, an expansive swap meet field and a
colossal midway, the Pontiac Nationals at Norwalk is sure to enjoy a
banner year for 2006.
PROBELL Nostalgia Race Classes Pre-Registered List Released
February 24- Recently, Norwalk Raceway Park announced the
addition of the PROBELL Nostalgia Race Classes exclusively at Blue Suede
Cruise. We are now pleased to release
the lists of those who have pre-registered.
Remember- once the class is filled, there are no alternates or
additions. Please review the following
classes. If you would like to
pre-register, please download the attached form and mail it to us, or fax it to
us at 419-663-0502. If you have any
questions, please feel free to call Pete Woodruff at 419-663-0319.
To review the pre-registered list, click on the "Race Pre-Entries button at the bottom of this page.
Reher Morrison Steps Up to the Plate
Reher Morrison has signed an expansive marketing program with Norwalk Raceway Park. Reher Morrison manufactures high quality engine and performance parts for the professional and sportsman racer using innovative technology and proven successful performance from their own race teams.
Season Brochures Mailed February 10
February 12- Very soon, you will be receiving your Season Schedule of events for Norwalk Raceway Park. The brochures were dropped off to the Norwalk Post Office at 3:00 on Friday afternoon. Please allow the Post Office at least a week to deliver the schedule. Check out the latest Norwalk has to offer!
Season Opener to Showcase Classic Battle of Good vs. Evil!
On April 22, the Season Opener presented by Donald M. Graham & Associates will feature a destructive battle of Transforming Robots. The machines, otherwise known as Galactron and Reptar, will take center stage in an evening that is sure to quench your winter’s thirst for drag racing. The robots will attempt to mutilate each other with a display not seen at Norwalk for decades.
Seasonal Employment Opportunities at Norwalk
February 12- Do you have some extra time on the weekends? Come and work with the best team in drag racing!
Racing season is just around the corner and Norwalk Raceway Park is looking for some enthusiastic individuals to join our Norwalk Team!
'Slick Chics' Class to Debut at Hot Norwalk Nights
February 22- Norwalk Raceway Park is pleased to announce a new class will be run on select Hot Norwalk Nights this year- SLICK CHICS! For girls only!
On May 24 and August 30, Norwalk will host an exclusive competition for girls only. We can all name our favorite female drivers. Mandi Downing, Sadie Glemza, and Melanie Monogan- let’s see how they fare against each other!
The rules will be simple, no electronics and that’s about it. We will present cool trophies to the winner, runner up, and semi finalists, and the first round winners will get a cool Slick Chics T-Shirt.
Super 16 Returns to Norwalk
Back by popular demand, the fastest eight doorslammers will take on again the fastest eight open bodied vehicles at select Norwalk Raceway Park events in the 2006 season.
Bill Bader, Jr., President of Norwalk Raceway Park, made the announcement during his State of the Union Address at the 32nd Annual Bar’s Leaks Awards Banquet in January. The announcement received strong applause, and the stage is now set for a revival of one of drag racing’s most storied competitions.
Super Chevy Show Makes Midwest Debut at Norwalk!
February 28- March is upon us, folks. The sixty-day countdown has begun for one of the biggest Super Chevy Shows in the nation, and the very first to bring the bowties to the Midwest. We’re stoked for the 18th Annual Super Chevy Show at Norwalk Raceway Park, coming May 5-7, 2006!
The three-day Chevy Extravaganza is not only a thrilling celebration of all things Chevrolet, but an incredible showcase of the power and might of 230 mile an hour Nitro Coupes, a selection of Jet Cars, and a wheelstander sure to delight the kid in all of us!
Swap Meet Vendors - Come On Down- This Saturday!
April 10- Saturday marks the one-day test fest known as the Spring Warm Up. It is also the day you are welcome to bring all your used parts and lay them out on a swap meet field that is a few football fields large. Gates will open at 9AM. Swap Meet spaces will be available for only $35. Testing will run on the track from 10AM until 8PM. Swap Meet vendors get some special treatment- you may come in early on Friday to set up from Noon to 7:00PM.
Ten Grand Nationals Entry Fee Now $100
February 15- Has Bill Bader, Jr. gone mad? Certainly not! Here he is letting girls in for free every Wednesday and at the Funny Car Foxhunt Jet Car Nationals, and now this- he lowers the entry price to the Mr. Gasket Company Ten Grand Nationals presented by Race Tech Racecars! What gives? The Ten Grand Nationals lands at Norwalk September 1-3. Enough time for a Monday trip home on the holiday.
The First Annual Urban 1320 Championship
Norwalk Raceway Park is proud to announce a new partnership with the Coalition of Urban Drag Racers Association.
Norwalk will host the First Annual Urban 1320 Championship on June 17, 2006. The Urban 1320 Championship will coincide with Norwalk’s Bar’s Leaks $50,000 Grand Slam Points Chase.
The Road to the Blue Suede Cruise
February 24- New from the Editor of Cruisin' Times Magazine, John
Shapiro- a look back on the success and growth of one of Norwalk
Raceway Park's hottest events- the PPG Blue Suede Cruise, presented by
Cruisin' Times Magazine.
Celebrating five fast years in 2006, the Blue Suede Cruise began as an
event completely dedicated to show cars 1972 and older. A non-judged
field quickly grew, and the event now sports over 2,000 hot rods. John
Shapiro has agreed to write a column for www.norwalkraceway.com tracing
the history of Blue Suede, and sharing some of his insight, some of the
hilarious mishaps, and a whole lot of the joy he has encountered as a
member of the Blue Suede Cruise Team. In this blog entry, John shares
a laugh at his expense (the best kind of laugh) and includes, "Whatcha doin' putting up a permanent structure?"
Click on the Blue Suede Cruise icon to read all about it.
Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days Begins March 15
March 3- Norwalk Raceway Park is today releasing the names of the Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days spotlight series to be launched on March 15, in conjunction with the countdown of thirty days until the Spring Warm Up, April 15, 2006 at Norwalk Raceway Park.
The spotlights will take as many creative turns as necessary, and the hope is to shed some light on a small cross section of our family of drivers and riders. The purposes of these spotlights are to showcase the broad range of talent, interests, and personalities that Norwalk host’s week in and week out. And I am pretty sure we are all going to learn a lot of interesting things about the folks we pit next to each week!
The countdown begins March 15- stay tuned for the updates! Click "Read More" for the names!
Track Rentals to Begin April 5
February 23- Norwalk Raceway Park is pleased to announce the 2006 track
rental schedule has been lengthened to include April 5. If you are
interested in renting the track, please call Nettie at 419-668-5555.
Track rentals are reserved on a first come, first served basis.
University of Northwestern Ohio to Host Dave Morgan’s Seminar
February 17- Includes new format and better price!
Dave Morgan will bring his traveling seminar presentation to the University of Northwestern Ohio (UNOH) on Feb. 25. This is the 10th year he has been presenting his chassis-tuning seminars to drag racers.
"This year’s presentation is much more evolved than any ever before," Morgan said. "Since becoming an instructor at the UNOH, I’ve learned a few things about the art of teaching and, more importantly, about the nature of torque. I’ve also reorganized the material so we can cover more information in the smallest amount of time."
Vintage Trailers Official Trailer Company of Norwalk
February 16- Norwalk Raceway Park is proud to announce Vintage Trailers is the Official Trailer Company of Norwalk Raceway Park. Vintage Trailers, located in Elkhart, Indiana manufactures quality trailers for your race teams, vehicles, and bikes.
The Team at Vintage Trailers has competed at IHRA National Events for the past five years with a 260” blown Alcohol Dragster in Top Dragster competition. In 2006, they will compete at NHRA Divisional and National Events with a brand new 290” Mike Spitzer Dragster in the Top Alcohol Dragster eliminator.
Win a Chance to Be Crewmember for a Day with A Pro Team!
Norwalk Raceway Park is pleased to announce an incredible incentive for guests coming to the Funny Car Foxhunt/ Jet Car Nationals over Memorial Day and the IHRA World Nationals in August. Norwalk Raceway Park and the Ohio Lottery will distribute 5,000 exclusive lottery tickets with prizes unique and specialized for your visit to the track at both events! One lucky fan at both events has a chance to scratch off his ticket to reveal a prize unlike any other: Crewmember for a day with a professional race team!
John Force Winner's Circle Starting Line Seats Selling Fast
March 13- Imagine sitting at a table near the starting line at Norwalk Raceway Park. Imagine sipping iced tea and enjoying a juicy steak. Now imagine John Force coming by YOUR table and having a moment with you. Now imagine it’s the third time he’s been by today- the greatest day in drag racing, Night Under Fire at Norwalk Raceway Park!
There isn’t much time left to grab your seats in the John Force Winner’s Circle. How often do you get a chance to relax on the starting line with an up close personal view of all your favorite Night Under Fire stars. And how often do you get a chance to have those stars visit YOU!
Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days Begins Today
March 14- Tomorrow, Norwalk will launch into the exciting adventure of introducing you to thirty of our drivers in thirty days, leading up to the Spring Warm Up, the gigantic one day reunion on the Norwalk quarter mile. Dust off your engines and clean off the tires, it’s just about time to go drag racing.
But first: a short announcement concerning the list. I have been forced to remove one of the drivers. It seems although I made the choice to not include any of our bloggers, one of them appeared in the list! And it was none other than Barney Barnhart. So, I have taken great pains to remove him from the list, and am pondering slapping a few restrictions on him for the race season. (I am taking a lesson in government- when you screw up, blame someone who had no involvement whatsoever.)
Now Accepting Pre-Registrations for Swap Meet Vendors April 15
March 15- Norwalk Raceway Park is preparing the Swap Meet for the Spring Warm Up on April 15, 2006. The one-day event welcomes both swapper and racer to an event that witnessed a record crowd of over 200 swap meet vendors in 2005. Norwalk will open its gates to Swap Meet vendors on Friday, April 14 from Noon until 7PM, and will open the gates early on Saturday for Swap Meet Vendors on April 15 at 6AM. To pre-register for the Spring Warm Up Swap Meet, please call 419-668-5555. Pre-registration is $35 for a 15’ x 30’ space and two admission tickets.
And racers, remember, this is your chance to clean out the garage- bring it out and put it on sale!
Now Accepting Registrations for Wednesday Car Club Series
March 31- Norwalk Raceway Park is now accepting registrations for the 2006 Hot Norwalk Nights Club Series. The Exclusive series will be run the first Wednesday of each month, with racers collecting points as they advance through the regular competition at Hot Norwalk Nights. Clubs must register to participate, and earn the “c” which will be placed at the end of their car number. For more information, or to register, please contact Eric Ebinger at the track by calling 419-668-5555. It is $35 to register your club. You may field a team of three to over thirty-three different racers. The winning clubs will win a pizza party at the end of the season. There are three different clubs, a silver, copper, and bronze, depending on the number of people in your club. It will be an exciting season at Norwalk on Wednesdays this year- and the Club Series is only part of it! Click here to sign up!
The Consistency of Dale Boyer
March 15- Norwalk Raceway Park begins its introduction of ‘Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days’ beginning with the 2005 Stop Leak Street Champion and Norwalk native Dale Boyer.
In December of 2005, Dale Boyer was asked to describe himself in one word. His answer was quick: “Consistent.”
His closest competitors would have to agree. Throughout the 2005 season, Boyer marched through the competition with consistency, never losing first round, and collecting points as if he were simply climbing a mountain. As his nearest rivals dealt with the ups and downs that ultimately prevail in a six month race season, Boyer continued forward, adding points and momentum and finally, a Norwalk Championship Eagle for the mantle, his second in five years.
2006 Marks the Return of Lindie Baker-Hammersmith
March
18- The fourth driver in Norwalk’s ‘Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days’ is
returning Bar’s Leaks Top competitor Lindie Baker-Hammersmith.
There was a time when Lindie Baker-Hammersmith was first a drag racer,
and everything else came second. Having taken the 2005 season off to
have her second son, Hammersmith is now Mom first- and Drag
Racer, second.
Lindie Baker-Hammersmith returns to the driver’s seat of her beautiful 1996 Jerry Bickle Firebird in Bar’s Leaks Top for the 2006 season at Norwalk Raceway
Park. Norwalk had the opportunity to catch up with Hammersmith
at her home in rural Monroeville, Ohio.
A Few Announcements and Apologies
March 19- You always hurt the ones you love the most. This is the second time I have offended one of our racers by publishing the incorrect make and model of their race car! Lindie, please forgive me. I will make it up to you, although I am still paying for it with last year's date change for Diana Murphy! I made the changes, please check Lindie's story again for her ride's correct name. Also- come check us out today at the Cleveland Autorama. It has been a wonderful time passing out schedules and talking with people about the upcoming season. Jessie Harris has been a huge hit at our booth- more forthcoming on Jessie later this week. Also, Larry McGee, Alan Lee, Jeff Neidermeyer, Chris Streetor, and John Boes have their race cars on display and I marvel at the amount of attention they are getting. The Autorama is open from 11-6 today so stop in and see all the great cars and trucks!
Cameo Pizza Introduces Great New Offer
March 17- Cameo Pizza is proud to announce a new partnership with Norwalk Raceway Park for the 2006 season. Cameo Pizza is offering the “Norwalk Raceway ½ Off Deal.” When you buy any size pizza, you will get half off any second pizza of lesser value. The offer, of course, is only valid at participating Cameo Pizza locations, including Norwalk, Sandusky, and Huron. Cameo Pizza has a vast chain of shops, including stores in Norwalk, Sandusky, Huron, Catawba, Bellevue Sports Hut, Willard Varsity Club, Fremont Plaza Lanes, and Put-in-Bay. Cameo Pizza is celebrating seventy years in 2006! So tonight, in honor of St. Patrick’s Day, why not call up the nearest Cameo Pizza shop and treat the family to the best pizza around! Cameo Pizza, celebrating 70 years of Family Tradition!
Introducing Jessie Harris
March 20- Al Hanna wore a constant smile this past weekend at the Cleveland Auto-rama. Hanna, the World Champion Jet Car Driver and builder, embarked on a new journey that began three years ago when he signed then twenty-year old Jessie Harris to campaign his fabled Queen of Diamonds 300 mile an hour Jet Dragster. Hanna and his wife of forty-one years, Ellen, stood by as the charming Harris was swarmed repeatedly with fans at the Auto-rama. One thing is for certain; Hanna can be assured the star power of this delightful young lady has only begun to shine.
John Force "Legend" Diecasts SOLD OUT!
March 16- We told you to call us. We told you they were selling fast. Didn't we? Now, they're gone forever to be sold on the Ebay Market for outrageous prices. There were 2500 produced, and Norwalk waved goodbye to the last shipment earlier this week. The 2006 diecast will be available for purchase very shortly, stay logged on for more news.
The Following of Larry McGee
March 20- Norwalk Raceway Park celebrates the first day of spring by
introducing Bar’s Leaks Top Driver Larry McGee as today’s profile in
Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days. McGee spent the weekend with Norwalk at
the Cleveland Auto-rama, and collected a Best Appearing First Place for
his Chevy II in the Super Gas category.
You will not soon forget the Chevy. In fact, in the midst of a
three-day display at this past weekends Cleveland Auto-rama, one
gentleman said it all when he asked Larry McGee, “You take this car out
on the racetrack?” McGee flashed his characteristic smile and said,
“Sure.” The Chevy won Norwalk’s Best Appearing Comp Car for 2005, and
was recognized at the Cleveland Autorama with a first place Best
Appearing plaque for Super Gas. McGee, who began racing at Norwalk in 1999, took
time during Cleveland’s annual car show extravaganza to reflect on the
coming year, and the attention his ride gathers both on and off the
track.
Life Share Blood Drive Returns for Season Opener April 22
March 17- Norwalk Raceway Park is pleased to announce LifeShare will return for a blood drive on April 22 for Norwalk's Season Opener. In 2005, LifeShare met great success gathering pints of blood for use in our local community. With the devastation caused by the hurricanes in our Southern Region, giving blood was brought to the front lines of our citizens conciousness. Norwalk Raceway Park and LifeShare would like to thank all those who gave blood, and would like to invite anyone who wishes to participate in this year's program to the track first at the Season Opener on April 22, 2006.
Man on Fire- Perry Paugh
March
19- Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days makes a slight change as we profile a
‘rider’ in our thirty-day lead-in to the 2006 Spring Warm Up on April
15. Wiseco Cycletech Superbike Rider Perry Paugh has his eyes locked
on the championship.
Perry Paugh has diagnosed the exact reason for his fall from third
place in 2004 to a heartbreaking absence from the top sixteen in 2005.
“Stupid Mental Mistakes,” Paugh responded quickly to the question of
what happened. Norwalk caught up with the Paugh on St. Patrick’s Day
in the ‘bouncer’s’ chair at Parnell’s Pub in Cleveland Heights.
Perry Paugh followed his nineteen point-third place in 2004 with a
series of setbacks and round one losses in 2005. Something was not
right, as the Kawasaki’s were not getting it done on Saturday’s. Oddly
enough, Perry Paugh was unstoppable in the Stock class on Saturdays and
then on Wednesday nights in any class he entered, be it Motorcycle,
Stock, or Superstock. What gives, Mr. Bouncer-man? “I was trying too
hard. Stupid Mental Mistakes.”
Man on Fire- Perry Paugh
March 19- Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days makes a slight change as we
profile a ‘rider’ in our thirty-day lead-in to the 2006 Spring Warm Up
on April 15. Wiseco Cycletech Superbike Rider Perry Paugh has his eyes
locked on the championship.
Perry Paugh has diagnosed the exact reason for his fall from third
place in 2004 to a heartbreaking absence from the top sixteen in 2005.
“Stupid Mental Mistakes,” Paugh responded quickly to the question of
what happened. Norwalk caught up with the Paugh on St. Patrick’s Day
in the ‘bouncer’s’ chair at Parnell’s Pub in Cleveland Heights.
Perry Paugh followed his nineteen point-third place in 2004 with a
series of setbacks and round one losses in 2005. Something was not
right, as the Kawasaki’s were not getting it done on Saturday’s. Oddly
enough, Perry Paugh was unstoppable in the Stock class on Saturdays and
then on Wednesday nights in any class he entered, be it Motorcycle,
Stock, or Superstock. What gives, Mr. Bouncer-man? “I was trying too
hard. Stupid Mental Mistakes.”
Norwalk Drivers Win Best Appearing Awards
March 20- Norwalk Raceway Park is pleased to announce four of its drivers were honored at the Cleveland Auto-rama this past weekend at the IX Center, the new home of the Auto-rama. Two drivers in the Norwalk Raceway Park display took home first place plaques, including Alan Lee of Milan for his Best Appearing Altered Competition Roadster, and Larry McGee of Berlin Heights for his Chevy II in the Super Gas category. Half Scale Dragster driver Jeff Niedermeyer of Maple Heights, Ohio took home a second place plaque for the Best Appearing Junior Dragster. In a display across the complex, Scott Eichenberg took home the Best Appearing Comp Dragster First Place finish.
On the Road with Kirby McLennan
March 17- Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days continues with the Bar’s Leaks Top second place finisher for 2005, Kirby McLennan.
In the middle of the 2005 season, Kirby McLennan suffered a rare first
round loss at a Norwalk Raceway Park points meet. Although he packed
the dragster up earlier than he had planned, Kirby had the best package
of all the first round losers in Bar’s Leaks Top, entitling him to the
$250 Holliday Canopy Gift Certificate. When Kirby’s name was
announced, a gentleman in customer service said softly, “Even in
defeat, Kirby can manage to win.”
And win, Kirby does. Always one of (or THE) fastest race cars on the
property, Kirby McLennan is rarely off his game. Pulling up alongside
him is, for many racers, signing over the deed for the round. Kirby
cuts lightning quick reaction times, and completes the package as close
to his ‘dial in’ as mathematically possible. Kirby McLennan was once
described as the Elite Racer in the Midwest. His mantle, if he had
one, proves why. Four championships at Norwalk alone and he’s scored
so many times at Milan Dragway he’s lost count. Kirby McLennan very
well could be the John Force of the Sportsmen ranks.
Steve Obertanec Reaches Back for Winning Ways
March 16- Norwalk Raceway Park continues its introduction of Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days with Modified Driver and Lodi, Ohio native Steve Obertanec. This is the second driver in the series of thirty. Norwalk will release one profile everyday until the Spring Warm Up dawns on April 15.
Steve Obertanec is the only race car driver who finished last season at Norwalk Raceway Park with a win. Obertanec trudged through the massive Modified monstrosity gathering for Classix XXXIII at the end of October last year, and took home not only the Classic Gremlin as the Modified Champion, but won the Grand Championship. Obertanec, however, was quick to put the year in perspective. Norwalk had an opportunity to catch up with Obertanec on Wednesday, and the first question focused on how it felt to win the Classic.
Coca Cola Now Serving at Norwalk
March 20- Norwalk Raceway Park is proud to announce a new partnership
with the Coca Cola Company. Coca Cola is now the official beverage of
Norwalk Raceway Park, joining the two partners in an exclusive
long-term partnership that will bring Coke to Norwalk racing fans.
Bill Bader, Jr., President of Norwalk Raceway, signed the new
partnership one month before the start of the 2006 season beginning
April 15. “I cannot express how excited I am in words,” Bader said
Monday morning. “Coke has been the undisputed champion of the cola
wars for decades and we are proud to welcome them at Norwalk Raceway
Park.”
Barnhart and Osborne Blogs Updated
March 20- The season is practically upon us, and you can tell something is near by reading the lastest installments from Barney and Penny Barnhart and Gary Osborne. Penny gives us an exclusive look into their partnership on race day, and Gary covers a wide variety of topics, including welcoming a new sponsor, www.racehouse.com. Click on the driver blogs button on the right hand side of the page to read on...
Back from Competition in North Carolina, Cody Harp Blogs!
March 21- Cody Harp competed in a Half Scale race in Farminton North Carolina this past weekend, advancing to the quarter finals, but we'll let him tell you the rest of the story. Sister Shelby Harp celebrated her birthday on March 19, so a great big birthday hug for Shelby from all of us. The Half Scale season begins at Norwalk on April 29. Come on out and cheer on The Outlaw! Click on Driver Blogs to read the Latest from Cody.
Looking Forward with The Punisher Al Lee
March 20- Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days marches forward, introducing
newcomer Al Lee to the ranks of our Bar’s Leaks Top drivers. Lee
caught the drag racing fever after watching buddy Larry McGee campaign
his Nova at Norwalk. Lee entered his rookie season in 05 after buying
an entire race operation. Norwalk caught up with “The Punisher” at
Cleveland’s Auto-rama this past weekend.
The name on the front end of the car is, “The Punisher.” But usually
those punishing are not always smiling, and Bar’s Leaks Top competitor
Al Lee wears a constant smile. Norwalk was able to spend a few minutes
with Lee at this past weekend’s Cleveland Auto-rama. Lee’s Roadster
was on display in the Norwalk booth, and garnered a fair share of
attention the entire weekend.
And Lee was thrilled. “It’s been fun,” Lee said on Saturday. “They
like the nostalgic look and the chrome.” When Norwalk inquired what it
felt like to see strangers take such an interest in his car, Lee
responded, “It’s exciting.”
Norwalk Weighs in on Engine Blankets
March 21- Years ago, when there was no helmet law in the state of
Florida, a gentleman went to the closest dealership to buy a bike. He
bought the nicest motorcycle in the shop. When the dealer asked if he
wanted a helmet, the gentleman replied, “Yes, but just give me the
cheapest.” The dealer was surprised. “You must not be very smart,” he
replied. The gentleman was offended. “I am a teacher, and I consider
myself a very smart man.”
“Then why would you not want to protect yourself? Why would you skimp on the most important piece of your equipment?”
Every season, a vast majority of drag racers make a similar decision
regarding their safety by passing on one of the most important
components of their racing operation, the Engine Blanket.
The Queen of Diamonds Jessie Harris
March 22- His name is unknown, but his question lingered and brought a
chuckle to those around him. “Just where do you get a jet engine? You
probably don’t get out the yellow pages and look up ‘jets?’ Do you?”
Jessie Harris put her hand on his shoulder, smiling, and answered with
equal sincerity the question proposed, and with a technical knowledge
that satisfied and tickled the gentleman at the same time.
In the next moment, she knelt down in front of a four-year-old girl
with wide eyes that sparkled and asked, “How old are you?” The girl’s
shyness penetrated the air and Harris hugged her and signed an
autograph. The smile she left on the girls face shone like an angel.
The Life and Times of Bob Robaugh
March 22- Norwalk leans back toward the bikes as we introduce our next
installment in Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days, Wiseco Cycletech
Superbike Rider Bob Robaugh. Norwalk caught up with Robaugh on break
during his job as a welder at a chemical plant near his home in
Strongsville, Ohio.
As he stood on stage in January at the Bar’s Leaks Awards Banquet, Bob
Robaugh was unmistakably moved. As Bill Bader, Jr. read a letter
written by his son, Ryan, Robaugh stood clutching his new Rossler
Wrench of the Year Award, presented to Robaugh in honor of his
achievement of two bikes in the top five of Norwalk’s competitive
Wiseco Cycletech Superbike class.
Perrotti and Baehr Update Their Blogs
March 22- Norwalk was glad to see Dave and Priscilla Perrotti out and about over the weekend at the Cleveland Auto-rama. Read Dave's blog to find out his unique role with the organization. Rick Baehr we did not see at the event, but it sounds like he's been a busy Baehr so read his blog and we are all looking forward to Sarah's comments in the next blog. Click on the Driver Blogs button at the right side of the page to read all the updated blogs from this week!
IHRA to Conduct Chassis Certifications at Norwalk
March 30- Norwalk Raceway Park has announced IHRA will conduct chassis certifications at the Spring Warm Up and Swap Meet, April 15, 2006 from 9:00AM until 5:45PM. Individuals who are only coming in to have their chassis certifications will still have to pay the $12 admission fee.
The Keith Holmes Drag Racing Equation
March 23- Norwalk Raceway Park is proud to continue Thirty Drivers in
Thirty Days with another 2005 Rookie, Keith Holmes. Holmes, a part of
the trio of drivers including Larry McGee and Al Lee, embarked on an
adventure in drag racing after watching McGee for four years at
Norwalk. Norwalk had a chance to catch up with Holmes recently at the
Cleveland Auto-rama.
Although he has just one season under his belt, Sheffield Lake, Ohio
native Keith Holmes looks and sounds nothing at all like a rookie.
Holmes took time out for an interview with Norwalk during a
walk-through of the Cleveland Auto-rama. Having watched his friend
Larry McGee running at Norwalk for four years, Holmes slowly accustomed
himself to drag racing. “Over time, you appreciate the sport more,”
Holmes said.
Dream a Little Dream With Me
March
23- Norwalk Raceway Park had the fortunate opportunity to host Jessie
Harris, The BIC Lighter Queen of Diamonds Jet Dragster Driver this past
weekend at the Cleveland Auto-rama. The twenty-three year old native
of Rome, New York will be competing at Norwalk during the Super Chevy
Show May 3-5 and Night Under Fire on July 1.
At thirty-five events throughout the year, Harris competes behind the
wheel of a 310-mile an hour jet dragster. Al Hanna, the legendary jet
car driver and owner of the BIC Lighter Queen of Diamonds Dragster, hired Jessie in
December 2002. The partnership has brought nationwide attention to the
Hanna Team, and has placed Harris under a bright spotlight under which
she has responded with candor and brilliance. Harris’s dream since she
was six years old was to be a racer, and racing the BIC Lighter Queen of Diamonds
Jet Dragster is truly a dream come true.
A Brief Encounter Becomes a Lifelong Bond
March 24- Today, Norwalk continues to focus on Jessie Harris, The BIC Lighter Queen of Diamonds. Norwalk had an opportunity to share a weekend with Harris and the Hanna Motorsports Team this past weekend at the Cleveland Auto-rama where the twenty-three year old Harris signed autographs, posed for pictures, and mingled with her growing contingent of Ohio fans. This third installment of a special series highlighting Harris reveals a young man whose life took an unfortunate turn, and for whom Jessie has since played an integral, positive role.
Maintenance... Please bear with us...
March 27- Please bear with us as we continue maintenance on the website. The site will be back to normal later this morning, along with Monday's stories. You can look forward to the next installment of "Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days" focusing on Keith McLennan. Wait till you read what he Really thinks about Kirby! Just kidding, they are brothers, and always will be. Thank you for your patience!
Alongside Curt Valtman
March 24- As Norwalk continues a look at Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days, our attention shifts towards Stop Leak Street. Curt Valtman, the 2004 Street Champion, won three points meets early in 2005 and could have run away with a second championship. But read on to discover just what happened, and how Valtman plans on spending 2006.
A Tale of Keith McLennan
March 27- Norwalk Raceway Park continues the "Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days, which has been lengthened to a new story every day until the Season Opener on April 22. Stay tuned today for the added list of drivers. Today,we spotlight Bar's Leaks Top and Koffe's Place Comp competitor Keith McLennan of Toledo, Ohio. The 2004 Comp Champion struggled in 2005, and is determined to return to form for 2006. Click on 'Read More' to find learn the tale of this competitive yet friendly drag racer.
Alongside Curt Valtman
March 24- As Norwalk continues a look at Thirty Drivers in Thirty Days, our attention shifts towards Stop Leak Street. Curt Valtman, the 2004 Street Champion, won three points meets early in 2005 and could have run away with a second championship. But read on to discover just what happened, and how Valtman plans on spending 2006.
A Tale of Keith McLennan
March 27- Norwalk Raceway Park continues the "Thirty Drivers in Thirty
Days" today with a new spotlight on Keith McLennan. After placing
second in Bar's Leaks Top and first in Koffel's Place Comp in 2004,
McLennan struggled in 2005. Click 'Read More' to find out what went
wrong, and how McLennan plans on regrouping this season. Norwalk will
continue its Driver Profiles up until the Season Opener (and most
likely longer) on April 22.
