Leazer goes wire-to-wire in first main event victory

Ryun Leazer claimed his first late model division win at Redwood Acres Raceway Saturday night

By Matthew J. Sullivan

After a long three week break, racing returned to Redwood Acres Raceway this past Saturday night. All five classes of roadrunners, bombers, mini stocks, Thunder Roadsters and late models put on another exciting night on the pavement for what was Driver Appreciation Night. Prior to the main events, drivers pulled their cars to the front stretch for a meet-and-greet with the numerous fans in attendance.

Steve Paiment was the winner of the Humboldt Hydroponics trophy dash. The first heat race victory went to Tyler Peach while Dillon Hagman won the second. The start of the 20-lap roadrunner feature got off to a slow start as several incidents brought out the caution flag. The most serious involved Shawn Molloy and Paiment in the fourth turn. When the green flag came back out, the intensity in the race picked up. Rookie drivers Hagman and R.C. Brown battled for the lead while division dominator Dylan Ford maneuvered his way to the front.

The race was slowed on lap eight when Troy Lee and Bethany Rapp came together in the first turn. Ford got the jump on the restart to take the lead while Hagman fell into second. Meanwhile, Daniel Buell began to make his presence known as he maneuvered into the top five. The final few laps were a battle between Hagman, Ford, Brown and Buell. With two laps remaining, Brown got sideways and fell off the top three of Buell, Hagman and Ford. Things got strung out on the final lap and at the checkered flag it was Buell taking his second main event in a row over Hagman, Ford, Jett Taylor and Brown.

The bomber trophy dash win was taken by Matt Simon. The heat race saw an incident in which Dustin Walters got sideways off turn four while racing Simon for the lead. Walters hit the front stretch wall hard. Fortunately he was okay but his car was out for the night. Simon took the heat race victory. The 25-lap bomber main event was slowed at the start by a spin from Rick Jelton but the race was clean and green from that point on. James Moore took the lead on the restart and dominated the race. Simon closed in on Moore in the final few laps but wasn’t close enough at the finish as Moore took the victory over Simon, Ryan Ahrens and Jelton.

Rick Estes narrowly won the mini stock trophy dash. The heat race victory went to Brian Murrell, Jr. Brett Murrell took the lead on the first lap of the 25-lap main but his older brother Brian moved to the top spot on lap two. Murrell, Jr. pulled out to a sizable lead over the field while faster qualifiers Estes, Eugene Palmer and Chris Champagne battled through the field. It appeared as though Murrell, Jr. was going to cruise to an easy victory as his lead was nearly a full straightaway ahead of the battle between second place between Estes, Palmer and Champagne but that changed when the caution flew due to Michael Lawrence hitting the water barrels and tires at the pit entrance in turn two. Lawrence was unharmed.

Palmer pulled into the pits under caution and did not return to the track when racing resumed. The yellow was exactly what Estes needed as he was now a serious challenger to Murrell’s victory hopes. Champagne and Cole Peterson also got into the fight and it was a four-way battle for the win. On the final lap, Champagne appeared to get loose and spun off turn two but fortunately he didn’t hit anything. Estes did all he could but Murrell, Jr. held on at the line to take his first main event win of 2015. Peterson took third, Brett Murrell fourth and Champagne fifth.

Thomas Payne was the victor of the Bear River Hotel And Casino Thunder Roadster trophy dash. Paul Peeples, Jr. took the win in the heat race. Belinda Ward took the lead at the start of the 30-lap main event. Donnie Brown and Chris Sarvinski took Ward three wide coming to lap two with Sarvinski pulling out to the front bringing Peeples with him. The caution flag dropped on lap five and the ensuing restart allowed Peeples to get by Sarvinski for the race lead. Peeples pulled away while Sarvinski had his hands full with Robbie Nelson who eventually got the second position. As has been the case throughout the entire 2015 season, Peeples dominated and claimed his sixth main event win in a row. Nelson took second followed by Sarvinski, Payne and Brown.

The Mid City Motor World late model trophy dash win was taken by Leonard Ward who also went on to win the heat race. With the 11:00 curfew closing in, the feature event was cut to 30 laps. Fortunately the race went start to finish with nary a caution flag. Ryun Leazer used pole position to his advantage as he took the lead from the start. Marty Walsh likely had the fastest car in the field but flagman, Bill Middleton gave Walsh the consultation flag when smoke began coming from the back of Walsh’s car.

With Walsh out of the running, it was Ward who would be Leazer’s main competition. At the halfway point, Ward had closed in to within a car length on Leazer. However as the race progressed, Leazer appeared to have superior drive from the center of the corner off. The only chance Ward had in the final few laps was if Leazer made a mistake but the sophomore late model driver never did. At the finish it was Leazer winning his first ever late model feature. Ward took second while Kenny Demello, Jedd Ambrosini and Mark Williams rounded out the top five.

Racing returns to the Acres for a special two-day Labor Day weekend spectacular on Saturday September 5th and Sunday September 6th. The Saturday event will feature the third and final Tri-Holiday Classic event for the late models. On Sunday, the North State Modified Series returns to the Acres for the second time in 2015. The local classes of roadrunners, bombers, mini stocks and Thunder Roadsters will race both nights while the late models will not partake in Sunday’s events. Front gates open at 4:30PM and racing starts at 6:00PM both nights. An open practice is scheduled on Friday September 4th from 2:00PM to 7:00PM.

Only two more events remain after the Labor Day weekend races. Saturday September 19th’s race will be Fan Appreciation Night as well as championship night for all five local classes. The final event of the season is on October 3rd will be the First Annual Big T Jackpot race for the roadrunners and the Bomber Bash. The second boat race of 2015 will follow the races and conclude the racing season at the Acres. For more information regarding the rest of the 2015 schedule, please visit Redwood Acres Raceway’s official website www.racingtheacres.com .

White survives to win Firecracker 100

Brandon White avoided the carnage to win the Firecracker 100

By Matthew J. Sullivan

It was a wild and exciting night at Redwood Acres Raceway for Patriotic Night at the Races this past Saturday evening. There were numerous incidents in all five of the Acres’ divisions including the late models which were holding the second Tri-Holiday Classic race on the night, the Firecracker 100 sponsored by Danielson Construction and North Coast Lighting And Electric. At the end of the night, the fireworks on track gave way to fireworks in the night sky as fans were treated to a spectacular display.

The Humboldt Hydroponics roadrunner trophy dash was won by Jordan Paiment. The first heat race was won by Chris Appleton while Dylan Ford took the second heat win. The feature which was scheduled for 20 laps got off to a slow start. Several drivers swapped the lead including Shawn Malloy, Ford, Jett Taylor and Daniel Buell. Ford entered the lead just past the halfway mark before the race was marred by cautions. Due to the race going over the 20-minute time limit, Ford was awarded the win, his fifth in a row.

Former Acres racer, Dan Maxwell was kind enough to put $500 on the line for the winner of the Maxwell’s Custom Automobiles bomber division main event and as a result, several out-of-town drivers were in attendance on the evening. Brian King was the winner of the four lap trophy dash while Dustin Walters took the heat race win. The bomber feature got off to a slow start due to a couple incidents, one of which included Lance Martins and Ryan Walters that resulted in Martins getting the black flag. When racing got going, it was clear Dustin Walters had the superior car. Walters was able to muscle by David Dillinger for the lead and he was able to cruise to the checkered flag and the $500 victory. Dillinger took second followed by Erick Ray, King and Rick Jelton.

Chris Champagne was victorious in the Danielson Construction mini stock division trophy dash. The first heat race was won by Paul Baker while the Champagne claimed the second heat. Brett Murrell took the lead at the start of the 25-lap main but got loose in turn four on lap two collecting his older brother Brian. Eugene Palmer took the lead after the restart but it was Billy Shaul who looked to have the superior handling vehicle. With only a few laps remaining, Shaul took the lead from Palmer and was able to hold on the rest of the way for the win followed by Palmer, Champagne, Rick Estes and Cole Peterson.

Mike Ward’s night in the Bear River Hotel and Casino Thunder Roadster division was cut short in the trophy dash when he got loose and hit the turn two wall nose first. Fortunately Ward was okay. Paul Peeples took the dash win then went on to claim the heat race victory. The main event proved to be no different. Although Chris Sarvinski took the lead early on, he was forced to give way to Peeples. It was another dominant performance as Peeples was able to take his fourth straight win over Sarvinski, Thomas Payne, Robbie Nelson and Belinda Ward.

Brandon White set fast time for the field of 16 Mid City Motor World Firecracker 100 late models with a 15.924. The winner of the trophy dash was veteran driver, Mike Sackett which awarded him pole position in the 100-lap feature. White used his outside front row starting position to his advantage as he took the lead at the drop of the green. Jim Walker looked to have the only car capable of contending with White as he moved into second on lap 12. The race was slowed twice early due to spins by George Young, Ryun Leazer and Kenny Demello. On lap 28, Leazer appeared to cut a right front tire going into the third turn. Leazer collected Mic Moulton and the two drivers slammed into the turn three wall. The race went green for a long 30-lap stretch with White pulling out to a large lead that Walker was able to chip away at thanks to slower traffic. On lap 56, the caution dropped for oil on the track from Alan Cress’ car. After a long cleanup, racing resumed and White went back to dominating over Walker and Sackett.

The race resumed green for another semi-long run before a caution from an incident between David Henderson and Tyler Avelar. Under the caution, Henderson stopped to speak to officials on the backstretch. Behind him, Richard Knight and Avelar ran into Henderson’s stopped car. Knight’s car climbed over the side of Henderson’s and flipped onto its top. Nobody was injured but the incident was enough for officials to call the race official before its scheduled end. This gave White the win over Walker, Sackett, Marty Walsh and Leonard Ward.

The next race on the docket will feature the return of the Spears SRL Southwest Tour Series to the Acres. The SRL Series is the top late model touring series in the west and features the top talent in the region. Firecracker 100 winner, Brandon White will certainly be one of the favorites to take the win. In addition, the roadrunners, bombers, mini stocks and Thunder Roadsters will be in action. For more on the upcoming SRL event, please visit the Acres’ official website www.racingtheacres.com .

Miller victorious after Henderson breaks

Oregon veteran, David Miller took the late model main event
victory on opening night at Redwood Acres Raceway

By Matthew J. Sullivan

It was opening night of the 2015 season at Redwood Acres Raceway this past Saturday evening as it was Renner Petroleum Night at the 3/8-mile paved oval. A large crowd of excited race fans turned out to see the five local classes of Humboldt Hydroponics roadrunners, bombers, mini stocks, Thunder Roadsters and Mid City Motor World late models.

Prior to the racing action, fans were able to greet drivers while also voting which driver had the best appearing car in each division. The winners for each division were Jett Taylor in the Humboldt Hydroponics roadrunners, Mike Knight in the bombers, Eugene Palmer in the mini stocks, Belinda Ward in the Thunder Roadsters and Kenny Demello in the Mid City Motor World late models.

Dylan Ford set fast time for the Humboldt Hydroponics roadrunner division with a 20.157 qualifying lap. The trophy dash victory was taken by Jett Taylor while the heat race victory was recorded by Ford. The 20-lap feature was a thrilling affair between several drivers, among them rookie, Shawn Malloy who made the transition from a passenger in the bomber division to driver in the roadrunner division. Unfortunately, Malloy’s inexperience did him in resulting in a spin that took him off the lead lap and out of contention.

The racing was close between the faster qualifiers of Ford and Taylor and the slower qualified drivers Steve Paiment and Daniel Buell. Paiment was able to maneuver into the lead with two laps remaining in the main event. Ford did all he could on the last lap to out-gun Paiment for the lead but it was not to be as Paiment took his first ever main event victory narrowly over Ford, Taylor, Buell and Andrew Pimentel. The final margin of victory was a scant .065 seconds.

Dustin Walters set quick time in the bomber division at 17.939. James Moore got his sophomore campaign in the division off to the right start with the trophy dash win while Walters prevailed in the heat race. The 25-lap main event for the bombers was shortened to 15 after a first lap incident that took out the cars of Walters and Michael Knight who was visiting from Lakeport. Coming off the fourth turn, Lance Martins got sideways in front of Knight. In an effort to avoid hitting Martins, Knight turned left but unfortunately tagged Walters’ car sending him into the wall. Thankfully both drivers were unharmed.

Tyler Avelar blasted to the lead when the race restarted, pulling out to what ended up being an insurmountable lead for Moore. The gap between the two closed noticeably as the laps wound down but at the checkered flag Avelar still held a comfortable margin as he crossed the line first over Moore and Martins.

The field for the mini stock division in 2015 looks to be growing as 12 cars showed up to race. Unfortunately, Dax Kinsey would not be able to race on the night as his car was unable to return after the first qualifying round. Rick Estes was the only driver to get under the 19 second bracket as he clocked in with fast time with a 18.995 time. 2013 roadrunner champion, Jarrett Mayo returned to racing at the Acres after a year away and showed no signs of rust as he won the first heat race. 2014 bomber champ, Leonard Ward took the victory in the second heat.

The field for the 25-lap mini stock main event was shortened due to 2014 roadrunner champion, Gary Klinetobe having issues. The race got off to a crazy start when Jordon Paiment slowed suddenly in front of the field causing several cars to spin. Fortunately nobody suffered any damage although Paiment was forced to retire for the night. Mayo took the lead on the restart but was overtaken by Brian Murrell, Jr. on lap two. On lap six, Ward moved by Murrell into the lead. Estes was beginning to show his strength in the middle stages of the race but hit the wall off turn four which damaged his exhaust system. After several laps of sparks coming from his car, Estes’ exhaust fell off entering turn three taking him out of the racing and necessitating a caution flag.

The yellow looked to be just what Murrell needed as he was able to get by Ward on the restart. However on the next lap, Murrell had trouble as his throttle stuck going into turn one. While he was able to avoid further disaster, the pedal on Murrell’s car broke forcing him to pull his car into the infield and out of action. Murrell’s misfortune made the rest of Ward’s race easier as he was able to hold off Dylan Ford to take the win. Mayo took third over two more division rookies, Eugene Palmer and Ken Barrett who was behind the wheel of Ryan Ahrens Karmann Ghia.

Fast time in the Thunder Roadster class was set by defending division champion, Paul Peeples, Jr. at 17.171. Peeples was able to follow up his fast time in qualifying with victories in both the trophy dash and the heat race. Chris Lawrence held the lead for the first two circuits of the 30-lap main for the Thunder Roadsters but could not hold off the faster challengers of Peeples and Robbie Nelson. Lawrence settled into third and the best action of the race was the battle between him and Mike Ward. Meanwhile, Peeples was able to hold off Nelson for the lead the entire race. At the finish it was Peeples winning over Nelson, Lawrence, Ward and Tommy Payne.

The Mid City Motor World late model division saw several new faces joining the field. Former Thunder Roadster champion, David Henderson used his experience to set fast time on the night with a 16.169 lap. Late model sophomore, Ryun Leazer brought home his first win in the division taking the honors in the trophy dash while Henderson took the heat race victory.

The 35-lap main event got off to a quick start thanks to Henderson who took the lead from the start and pulled to an enormous lead over the rest of the field. The Fortuna driver looked to be the class of the field and it appeared that the rest of the competition would be fighting to see who would place second. The driver who looked to be in that position was making a surprise visit to RAR’s local late model division, Oregon veteran, David Miller. Though the race was slowed by caution a few times, Henderson was able to race back to the lead and outpace Miller and the rest of the competition.
Just past the halfway mark of the event, Henderson’s engine began to sound sour. At lap 24, Henderson slowed and entered the pits giving Miller the race lead. Miller’s experience as well as a superior handling car proved to be the key to victory as he was able to lead the rest of the way to the win. Lakeport driver, Richard Knight took second over division rookies George Young and Tyler Avelar. Jedd Ambrosini placed fifth.

Racing takes a break for a week before returning Saturday May 9th with all five local classes back in action. Grandstands open at 5:00PM and racing begins at 6:30PM for more information on all of what’s going on at Redwood Acres Raceway, please visit the track’s official website www.racingtheacres.com .

Moulton, Peeples Acres track champions

Moulton, Peeples Acres track champions

By Matthew J. Sullivan

The final points paying event for the 2014 season occurred this past Saturday night at Redwood Acres Raceway. Track championships in all five local divisions of roadrunners, bombers, mini stocks, Thunder Roadsters and late models were decided on the night which was sponsored by Mid City Motor World. Although a heavy fog set in and hindered the view of fans and drivers, the racing on the track was as exciting as it has been all year long.

Gary Klinetobe would have had to suffer catastrophic failure going into the night to prevent him from winning the championship in the Humboldt Hydroponic roadrunner division. Thankfully, that did not happen. Nick Vellis took trophy dash honors for his first victory of the season. The first heat race featured an incident on the last lap that saw Andrew McKaughan go head-on into the water barrels at the pit entrance. Thankfully McKaughan was okay. Dylan Ford took the victory in the first heat while Chad Grammer won the second heat.

The racing at the front was intense in the 20-lap main event. It was nose-to-tail, door handle-to-door handle action between Dylan Ford, Eugene Palmer, Steve Kimberling, Jett Taylor and Daniel Buell. The race was slowed on a few occasions, most notably on lap nine when Klinetobe and Andrew Pementel got together and spun between turns one and two.

Klinetobe made a mad dash to the front in the final few laps and was able to overtake Ford for the lead on the final lap. At the checkered flag it was Klinetobe capping off his championship win with a main event victory, his sixth of the season. Klinetobe’s championship rival, Palmer took second while the top five was rounded out by Ford, Buell and Taylor. The final top five in the standings were Klinetobe, Palmer, Tim Abeyta, Robbie Robinson and Ford.

Like Klinetobe, Leonard Ward more or less had the track championship locked down for the John’s Used Cars and Wreckers bomber division. It was a good thing the margin was so large for Ward because the night belonged to his closest competitor in the standings, Tyler Avelar. Avelar went three-for-three on the night taking wins in the trophy dash, heat race and the main event. Ward finished second followed by James Moore, Chris Naughton and Matt Simon. The top five in points were Ward, Avelar, Moore, Simon and Donnie Hyman.

Brian Murrell, Jr. wanted to do all he could to ensure his chance at winning the track championship in the mini stock division. His efforts paid off in the trophy dash and the heat race as he was able to win both events. It looked as though Murrell was going to cap off his season in a big way in the main event as he led the majority of the race. Unfortunately, engine issues popped up and forced him out of action. Thankfully the track championship was still his.

Rick Estes took the lead and was able to go on and win over Ryan Walters who was driving Ryan Ahrens’ Karmann Ghia. Eugene Palmer took third in Gary Klinetobe’s car while Cole Peterson took fourth and Brian Murrell, Sr. placed fifth. The top five in the point standings in the division were Murrell, Jr., Estes, Chelsea Champagne, Brett Murrell and Peterson.

Paul Peeples, Jr. entered the night more than 30 points ahead of David Henderson and Chris Sarvinski in the Bear River Hotel and Casino Thunder Roadster standings. Shockingly, Peeples suffered engine issues in qualifying which prevented him from racing and opened the championship door for Henderson and Sarvinski. The trophy dash was won by Sarvinski. The first heat race featured an incident that took out Roger Kirkpatrick who was making his first ever start in the division. Mike Ward won the first heat while Henderson took the second heat.

Peeples was able to secure the championship in the main by running the first lap of the 30-lap main. In spite of the door closing on his chances of winning the track title, Henderson was still in win-mode and dominated the feature while Robbie Nelson rode in his mirror doggedly all race long. Things went south for Henderson with seven laps to go when his engine came apart coming off the fourth turn. Nelson was able to withstand Sarvinski’s challenge on the restart to take his first ever main event victory. Belinda Ward took third followed by Chris Lawrence and Mike Ward. The final points standings results were Peeples with the title over Sarvinski, Henderson, Nelson and Belinda Ward.

The closest championship battle at the Acres was in the Mid City Motor World late model division between Mic Moulton and Luke Hall. It appeared as though Hall’s chance at the title went up in smoke when he suffered engine issues prior to the races. Fortunately, Jerry Peterson graciously allowed Hall to race his car which kept Hall in the points fight.

West coast short track legend, Jim Walker made his first start of the season and took the trophy dash win while Moulton took the win in the heat race. The 35-lap feature was highlighted by a thrilling three-car fight for the lead between Moulton, Walker and Hall. Moulton and Walker race side-by-side for the lead lap after lap while Hall did all he could in an unfamiliar car. On lap 15, Walker took the lead from Moulton.

The famous blue 48 pulled out to a 10 to 15 car length gap which Moulton was able to close in on in the final stages. By the time the white flag flew, Moulton was within three car lengths of Walker but that was as close as he would get. At the finish it was Walker taking the popular victory over Moulton, Hall, Kenny Demello and Ken Hallis. In the points standings Moulton took the championship over Hall, Demello, Ryun Leazer and Al Acuna.

The 2014 season at Redwood Acres Raceway concludes with the Fall Spectacular September 27th and 28th. Along with roadrunners, mini stocks, bombers and Thunder Roadsters will be the addition of modifieds and the 100-lap super late model race as well as the boat race on Sunday. Grandstands open at 4PM on Saturday with racing at 6PM and 11AM on Sunday with opening ceremonies at Noon. Ticket prices each day: $15 General Admission, $12 Children 12 and under/Seniors/Military, and ages 5 and under free. Full and final points standings and more information for the Fall Spectacular weekend can be found at Redwood Acres Raceway’s official website, www.racingtheacres.com .

2014 titles on the line this weekend at the Acres

2014 titles on the line this weekend at the Acres

By Matthew J. Sullivan

The 10th race of the 2014 season at Redwood Acres Raceway is only a few days away as the points season will conclude this Saturday night for Mid City Motor World Championship Night. Track championships will be decided in all five local classes and it should be a thrilling night of racing as drivers will be doing all they can to earn the best position they can in the final standings.

Gary Klinetobe has been the man to beat in the Humboldt Hydroponics roadrunner division in 2014. Klinetobe has earned five main event victories on the season and leads the standings by 29 markers over second place, Eugene Palmer who has won two main events this year. Palmer is the only driver who has a chance to overtake Palmer for the track championship but his odds are long given that Klinetobe will have to have incredibly bad luck to lose the title.

Tim Abeyta is third in points for the roadrunners while Robbie Robinson is fourth and Kayla Foster is fifth. None of those drivers has been able to find victory lane in a main event this season. Two drivers not high in the points standings have been the only other main event victors in the division in 2014. Jett Taylor pulled off a shocking win on July 19th while Dylan Ford won the most recent race on August 16th.

The track championship looks to be locked up for Leonard Ward in the John’s Used Cars and Wreckers bomber class. Ward holds a virtually insurmountable 61 point margin over Tyler Avelar. Rookie driver, James Moore is third in the standings only six points behind Avelar. The top three drivers have won all but one race this season with Ward taking five wins, Avelar two wins and Moore a win on May 25th.

Matt Simon is fourth in points while Donnie Hyman still holds on to fifth in spite of suffering a season ending injury in the July 19th feature event. Out of town visitor, David Dillinger is the only other driver who has won a main in the bomber class, coming home victorious on July 5th.

The point margin between first and second in the mini stock class is 38 points with Brian Murrell, Jr. holding the advantage over Rick Estes. Even though Murrell’s lead looks to be secure enough for him to take the track championship, Estes cannot be counted out. Both Murrell and Estes have won twice this season but Estes’ wins have occurred the past two races on August 2nd and August 16th.

Brett Murrell holds down third in points and is seven points in arrears to Estes in spite of having bad luck all year long. Chelsea Champagne is fourth in points, 15 behind Murrell while Jordon Paiment is fifth in the standings. Other main event winners in the mini stock class have been Nick Green who won on June 21st and July 19th and visiting driver, David Felch who won the July 5th event.

Unless Paul Peeples, Jr. happens upon some bad luck this Saturday night, it looks as though he will take the track championship in the Bear River Hotel and Casino Thunder Roadster division. Peeples has won five times this year and has a 34 point lead over David Henderson and Chris Sarvinski who are tied for second position. Henderson has three main event wins in 2014 including the most recent race on August 16th while Sarvinski’s lone win came on July 5th. Robbie Nelson holds down fourth in points followed by Thomas Payne in fifth who was involved in a serious incident on August 16th which severely damaged his car.

The closest points race at the Acres in 2014 is in the Mid City Motor World late model division. The intense racing that has happened on the track is mirrored in the standings as Mic Moulton leads Luke Hall by only 12 points. Both drivers have won four times this year with Hall having won the August 16th race. These two drivers have finished first and second to each other seven times this season and it will not be surprising to see the championship literally decided on the final lap.

Kenny Demello has not won a main event but has been consistent and is third in points but well out of the championship fight. Division rookie, Ryun Leazer has been steady all year long and sits fourth in points while Acres veteran, Al Acuna holds down fifth. Jerry Peterson is the only other driver to win in the late model division this year having done so on opening night, May 17th. Peterson sits sixth in the standings with a chance of getting into fifth.

Do not miss out on what promises to be a memorable night of racing this Saturday night at the Acres. Grandstands open at 5:00PM while racing begins at 6:30PM. Don’t forget that even though the points races are ending this weekend, there is still the season ending Fall Spectacular event Friday through Sunday September 26th, 27th and 28th. The local divisions of roadrunners, bombers, mini stocks and Thunder Roadsters will be joined by the IMCA modifieds and the 100-lap super late model race.

More information on this weekend’s event as well as the Fall Spectacular race can be found on Redwood Acres Raceway’s official website, www.racingtheacres.com .

Last lap contact gives Hall the win

Last lap contact gives Hall the win

By Matthew J. Sullivan

Racing action returned to Redwood Acres Raceway this past Saturday for what proved to be an intense night of thrills and spills. In addition to the exciting racing at Eureka, California’s 3/8-mile paved oval, it was Driver Appreciation Night. After all the heat races in the five local divisions, fans met drivers on the front stretch for a meet-and greet session. Every driver in every division greeted fans young and old, signed autographs and handed out goodies of all sort.

Ken Barrett was victorious in the trophy dash for the Humboldt Hydroponics roadrunners. Andrew Pementel won the first heat race while Gary Klinetobe won the second heat. Barrett led the first few laps of the 25-lap feature before giving way to Grey Ethridge. After a lap three restart, Dylan Ford and Chad Grammer moved into the first and second positions. Those two would be the dominant forces in the feature as they were able to pull away from the rest of the field. Grammer did all he could to stick with Ford but Ford proved to have the upper hand as he was able to take the victory. Grammer finished second followed by Ryan Ahrens who was driving Steve Kimberling’s car. Eugene Palmer took fourth while Klinetobe crossed the line fifth.

The John’s Used Cars and Auto Wreckers bomber trophy dash win was taken by James Moore. The heat race was won by Leonard Ward. The 25 lap feature began with Ward leading but Tyler Avelar looked to have the car to beat as he was able to take the lead from Ward and moved to a somewhat comfortable lead. Unfortunately, Avelar’s car began to suffer issues in the final few laps which allowed Ward to move back to the lead and take the win. Matt Simon placed second ahead of Rick Jelton, Moore and Avelar.

Rick Estes won the trophy dash in the mini stock division while Brian Murrell, Jr. won the heat race over Estes in a thrilling last lap duel. Murrell, Jr. was the dominant car in the feature event which was slowed several times. On what proved to be the final restart, Estes was able to get by Murrell from the outside starting position to take the lead and the eventual race victory. Murrell finished a hard fought second followed by Chelsea Champagne, Gary Klinetobe who was making his first start in the mini stock division and Cole Peterson.

The Bear River Hotel and Casino Thunder Roadster trophy dash victory went to Paul Peeples, Jr. The heat race proved to be the biggest incident of the night. Going into the third turn on lap one, Scott Baker looked to have trouble as he locked up his front brakes. Several cars were collected in the melee including Mike Ward, Thomas Payne, Peeples, Jr. and Reno, Nevada visitor, Jack Randall. Both Payne and Baker’s cars looked to be complete write offs while Randall suffered major damage to his car. Ward and Peeples were able to start the main. None of the drivers were injured in the scary incident.

The 30-lap main featured another unfortunate incident between Chris Sarvinski and Peeples. The two drivers made contact in turn three with Peeples hitting the wall in turn four and ending his night prematurely. David Henderson led from start to finish taking the main event victory. Sarvinski finished second followed by Robbie Nelson, Belinda Ward and Chris Lawrence.

Luke Hall won the trophy dash for the Mid City Motor World late model cars. Kenny Demello took the victory in the first heat race. The second heat saw an incident between Kevin Estep and Dennis DelBiaggio. The two made contact while racing into turn three and both cars went in the wall. Neither driver was able to make it out for the feature. Late model touring series veteran, Junior Roddy made a surprise visit to the Acres for the weekend and won the second heat.

As has been the case for the entire 2014 season at Redwood Acres Raceway, the 35-lap late model main event featured some of the most intense action on the night. Hall drove to the lead early and pulled out a sizeable gap over the field. A spin by Ken Hallis on lap six bunched the field and forced a restart. Hall again pulled out to a substantial lead while Mic Moulton and Roddy slid into the first and second positions. Moulton slowly but surely began to reel in the gap on Hall as the race progressed.

On lap 19, Moulton got sideways off turn four and went through the infield to save his car. Roddy moved into second while Moulton was able to safely get back on track into third. Hall looked to have a clear path to victory until Donnie Brown and Demello spun in turns one and two forcing a restart on lap 27. The top three of Hall, Roddy and Moulton raced closely nose-to-tail until the final two laps.

Roddy got under Hall coming off turn four with two laps remaining. The two raced door-handle to door-handle down the back stretch until Roddy was able to get the advantage going into turn three. Hall got inside of Roddy coming to the white flag and going into turn one the two came together sending Roddy spinning out of the lead. Hall was able to hold off Moulton’s fight to the line to take what proved to be a controversial victory. Todd Lands from Cloverdale took third ahead of Demello and Brown.

The next action on the oval will be Mid City Motor World championship night, Saturday September 13^th. Before that, Redwood Acres Raceway will host monster truck action Friday August 29^th, Saturday August 30^th and Sunday August 31^st. Also don’t forget that the annual Fall Spectacular has been moved to its traditional weekend on Friday September 26^th, Saturday September 27^th and Sunday September 28^th. Along with super late models, modifieds, Thunder Roadsters, bombers, mini stocks and roadrunners, there will be another boat race after the races on Sunday afternoon. Information for all upcoming events can be found at Redwood Acres Raceway’s official website, www.racingtheacres.com.

North State mods return to the Acres

North State mods return to the Acres

By Matthew J. Sullivan

The 2014 racing season at Redwood Acres Raceway hits its halfway point this weekend, Saturday July 5^th for a special Fourth of July celebration at the 3/8-mile paved oval. Joining the local divisions of roadrunners, bombers, mini stocks, Thunder Roadsters and late models will be the return of the North State Modified Series which had raced at the Acres earlier this season during the May 25^th Memorial Day weekend races. Capping the night off will be a spectacular fireworks show, the first time Redwood Acres Raceway has held a fireworks event. It promises to be a memorable and spectacular night for fans.

The point leader in the Humboldt Hydroponics roadrunner division is Gary Klinetobe. Of the five feature races thus far this season, Klinetobe has been victorious in four of them. Eugene Palmer broke Klinetobe’s win streak in the most recent race on June 21^st, doing so by mere inches. Palmer lies 21 points behind Klinetobe in the standings. Tim Abeyta holds down third, 44 behind Klinetobe. Robbie Robinson is fourth, 52 points behind the leader and Kayla Foster is fifth, 76 points behind.

Leonard Ward has made the John’s Used Cars and Wreckers bomber division his personal playground this season. Like Klinetobe in the roadrunner class, Ward has dominated the field in the bombers winning four of the five races in 2014. Due to his success, Ward has a 20 point gap over second place, James Moore. A rookie at the Acres, Moore was victorious during the May 25^th event. 60 points behind the leader in third position is Tyler Avelar. Fourth in points is Michael Lawrence who is 69 points in arrears of Ward. Matt Simon is fifth, 71 points behind.

The O’Reilly Auto Parts/Del Reka Distributing mini stock division saw an influx of cars during the fair night races two weeks ago. Brett Murrell holds the points lead in the class ahead of his older brother, Brian Murrell, Jr. by 12. Nick Green is a rookie to the division but not to racing at Redwood Acres Raceway and is third and 47 points behind the leader.  The top three drivers all have at least one main event win thus far this season Brett Murrell with one, Brian Murrell, Jr. with two and Green with one. Chelsea Champagne is fourth 58 markers behind Murrell while Sam Brown is fifth, 60 behind.

Since crashing out on opening night on May 17^th, Paul Peeples, Jr. has dominated the Bear River Hotel and Casino Thunder Roadster division knocking off four straight main event victories and holding down the points lead. David Henderson won the opening night race and has finished second to Peeples in all four races that he’s won. The gap between the two is only nine points. Chris Sarvinski is third, 37 points behind Peeples. Thomas Payne is fourth, 41 behind and Robbie Nelson is fifth, 70 points behind.

The closest competition at the Acres in 2014 has come in the Mid City Motor World late model division. Mic Moulton leads second place, Luke Hall by only four points. Both drivers each have two main event wins so far this season. Kenny Demello holds down third and is 36 points behind Moulton. Division rookie, Ryun Leazer is fourth and 47 points behind while Jerry Peterson is fifth, 54 points behind. Peterson is the only other driver who has won this year, his victory having come on the May 17^th race.

The North State Modified Series will be making its second stop to the Acres in 2014 this weekend. It will be the fourth race of six for the new touring series this season. Jay Linstroth leads Cody Braund by 26 points in the standings. Kyle Borden is third, 34 points behind Linstroth while Dustin DeRosier and Rich Cobb are fourth and fifth, 38 and 46 behind the leader respectively.  Linstroth won the series opener at Shasta Speedway while the previous race at the Acres on May 25^th was won by Darrin Knight. Linstroth took the most recent victory on the tour at All-American Speedway on June 21^st.

There will be an open practice session for all cars on Friday July 4^th between noon to 6:00 PM. Grandstands open at 5:00 PM on Saturday while the racing begins at 6:30 PM. For more information regarding this weekend’s events or news in general for Redwood Acres Raceway, please visit the track’s new and official website, www.racingtheacres.com.

Moulton, Hall, Peeples fair night winners at the Acres

Moulton, Hall, Peeples fair night winners at the Acres

By Matthew J. Sullivan

For the first time in several years, fair night races returned to Redwood Acres Raceway this past Friday and Saturday night. There was plenty of close and exciting racing in all five local divisions which thrilled the crowd both evenings. In addition to the races, there were also special post-race events on both nights. Friday night featured the quad wars while Saturday night was concluded with a destruction derby.

Heat races were eliminated in all five divisions on Friday while laps were added to each classes feature event. Eugene Palmer took the trophy dash victory in the Humboldt Hydroponics roadrunner division. The 30-lap feature was highlighted by a battle for the win between Palmer and division point leader, Gary Klinetobe. In the end, Klinetobe was able to take the victory over Palmer, Tim Abeyta, Grey Ethridge and Rob Robinson.

Leonard Ward won Friday’s trophy dash for the John’s Used Cars and Wreckers bomber division. The main event saw misfortune for two drivers. Matt Simon broke a rear end part which caused his right rear wheel to leave his car, ending his night prematurely. Later on, Michael Lawrence and Tyler Avelar got together going into the third turn. After the ensuing restart, Avelar took Lawrence into the turn one wall ending up with Lawrence’s car out for the rest of the weekend and Avelar disqualified from the event. At the checkered flag it was Ward over James Moore, Donnie Hyman, Lawrence and Simon.

Rick Estes stepped up from the roadrunners to the Humboldt Motorsports and Humboldt Bay Coffee Company mini stock division, taking the trophy dash win on Friday night. The main event was featured a fantastic duel for the win between Nick Green and Brian Murrell, Jr. The two swapped the lead in the late stages and just as Green began to close back up to Murrell to challenge for the top spot, he spun off the fourth turn. Murrell went on to take the win ahead of Green, Estes, Chelsea Champagne and Sam Brown.

The Bear River Hotel and Casino Thunder Roadster trophy dash victory was taken by Paul Peeples, Jr. The 40-lap main event was a repeat of what has been seen in the division all season long as well as in recent years; a duel for the victory between Peeples and Henderson. At the finish it was Peeples beating Henderson, Chris Sarvinski, Thomas Payne and Robbie Nelson.

Luke Hall won the Mid City Motor World late model trophy dash. The 45-lap feature started off bad for several drivers. On the initial start, Ryan Peeples got loose and spun coming to the green along with Kenny Demello. The next start saw Demello come together with Kevin Estep resulting in Estep receiving damage that ended the rest of his weekend. Hall was the early leader but lost the lead when Demello’s car developed issues and slowed in front of him. Mic Moulton was able to take advantage of Hall’s misfortune and take the win. Hall placed second, Ryun Leazer third, Jed Ambrosini fourth and Demello fifth.

The post-race quad wars event was a new attraction at the Acres. A special short oval was created in the infield for the quads to run in. Aiden Kimberling was the winner in the junior event over MKinzy Uselton while the team of Anthony Rosa and Nick Hanson were victorious in the adult event.

Saturday’s Humboldt Hydroponics roadrunner trophy dash went to Gary Klinetobe while the heat races were won by Rob Robinson and Eugene Palmer. The main event was slowed several times but produced a thrilling finish between Klinetobe and Palmer. The two came off the final corner side-by-side with Palmer just edging Klinetobe for the win. Former real stock driver, Steve Kimberling placed third while Tim Abeyta and Dillon Ford rounded out the top five finishers.

James Moore won the John’s Used Cars and Wreckers bomber dash while Leonard Ward took the heat race victory. Early in the main event, it appeared as though Donnie Hyman might be able to hold off Ward who has been the dominant force in the division this season. Ward was able to overpower Hyman eventually and cruised easily to the win. Moore took second, Tyler Avelar third, Hyman fourth and Matt Simon fifth.

The Humboldt Hydroponics mini stock trophy dash win was taken by Nick Green. He was able to follow that victory up with another in the heat race. Rookie, Rick Estes gave Green all he could handle for the win but Green’s previous experience in the real stock class paid off as he swept the night beating Estes, Chelsea Champagne, Sam Brown and Brett Murrell.

The Bear River Hotel and Casino Thunder Roadster division was dominated once again by Paul Peeples, Jr. who won the trophy dash. Peeples took the heat race win which saw an accident that involved Thomas Payne and Mike Ward. Payne and Chris Sarvinski spun off the fourth turn. While coming to the yellow flag, Ward hit Payne’s car knocking off the right front suspension and ending his night. Just like the night before, the main event saw a duel between Peeples and David Henderson. Once again it was Peeples winning ahead of Henderson, Robbie Nelson, Thomas Payne and Sarvinski.

Mic Moulton won the Mid City Motor World late model trophy dash Saturday night. He was able to follow that win up with another in the heat race. The main event saw close nip and tuck racing between Luke Hall and Moulton for the race lead. On the final lap, Moulton got inside of Hall going down the back stretch. The two raced side-by-side coming off turn four with Hall narrowly defeating Moulton for the win. Kenny Demello finished third, Ryan Peeples fourth and Jed Ambrosini fifth.

Following the racing on the oval, Redwood Acres Raceway held its first demolition derby in many years in the track’s in field. Doug Emery made the long tow from Butte City to participate in the event and was able to take the derby win.

Racing returns to Redwood Acres Raceway for a special fireworks show on Saturday July 5^th. Joining the five local divisions will be the return of the North State Modified Series which raced at the Acres earlier this season on May 25^th. Grandstands open at 5:00 PM while racing begins at 6:00 PM. For further information, visit Redwood Acres Raceway’s new and official website, www.racingtheacres.com.

Championship favorites making early season push

Championship favorites making early season push

By Matthew J. Sullivan

The 2014 season at Redwood Acres Raceway has started off in fine fashion. The action on the track has been thrilling the first three races.  Between the door-to-door action and the close finishes, fans have witnessed great racing in all five of the Acres local divisions. Things should prove to get even more exciting in the coming weeks.

Gary Klinetobe has been the dominant factor in the Humboldt Hydroponics roadrunner division thus far in 2014. In the first three races this season, Klinetobe has won the trophy dash, heat race and main event, going 9-for-9. His dominance in the division shows in the point standings as he holds a comfortable 21 point margin over second place, Eugene Palmer. Third in the standings is rookie, Rick Estes, 29 points behind Klinetobe. Robbie Robinson and Tim Abeyta are tied for fourth position 33 points in arrears of Klinetobe.

The John’s Used Cars and Auto Wreckers bombers class has been Leonard Ward’s playground so far in 2014. Ward has won two main events in the former real stock division and has a 12 point lead ahead of rookie driver, James Moore whom already has a main event victory this season. Tyler Avelar and Michael Lawrence are tied for third 19 points behind Ward while Matt Simon is fifth, 52 markers behind.

The Renner Petroleum mini stocks have return to the Acres in 2014 but unfortunately the division has struggle with the car count. It is expected that more cars and drivers will be filling the division in coming races. Brett Murrell holds a 20 point lead over his older brother, Brian Murrell Jr. Craig Baker sits third 25 points back, Brian McIntosh is fourth 31 points behind and Jordon Paiment is fifth 36 points behind Murrell.

Paul Peeples, Jr. is the point leader for the Bear River Hotel and Casino Thunder Roadster class having won two main events. Peeples leads David Henderson by only two points. Henderson was the opening night main event victor. Chris Sarvinski is third in standings 18 points behind Peeples. Thomas Payne is fourth, 20 points behind. Robbie Nelson holds down fifth and is 57 points back of the leader.

The Mid City Motor World late model division has arguably had the most exciting racing of all five classes so far this season. The top three in points are separated by only five points and each driver has one main event win this season. Mic Moulton holds a slim two point margin over Luke Hall while Jerry Peterson is third. Veteran driver, Al Acuna is fourth in points, 21 behind Moulton and Kenny Demello is fifth, 23 behind Moulton.

One of the biggest weekends of the year for Redwood Acres Raceway takes place this weekend, Friday June 20^th and Saturday June 21^st for the Fair Classic. In addition to the five local divisions there will be special action both nights. Friday night will feature the Quad Ward while Saturday night will feature a demolition derby. More information on this weekend’s events can be found at www.racingtheacres.com. Grandstands open at 5:00 PM while racing begins at 6:30 PM.

Hall thrills crowd, wins first feature of 2014

Hall thrills crowd, wins first feature of 2014

By Matthew J. Sullivan

Beautiful weather welcomed another fantastic crowed to the third night of racing in the 2014 season at Redwood Acres Raceway. As has happened on the track thus far this year, the racing action in the roadrunner, bomber, Thunder Roadster and late model divisions was intense and exciting.

The Humboldt Hydroponics roadrunner races proved to be a repeat of what has been happening all year long in the division. Gary Klinetobe set fast time with a 20.386 laps then took the victories in the trophy dash and the heat races. The 20-lap feature started off badly for Kayla Foster, Eugene Palmer and Brett Murrell as the three tangled in turn four on lap one. After the restart, Gray Ethridge took the lead briefly before being overtaken by Robbie Robinson, Jr. who was piloting the car normally driven by his father.

After a restart for a spin by Murrell, Rick Estes grabbed the lead from Robinson. On lap five, Robinson got loose and spun in turn three. Behind him, Nick Vellis got sideways which forced Palmer to slow. Foster rammed the bumper of Palmer’s car sending him spinning but fortunately everyone was able to continue. Estes did all he could after the restart to hold off Klinetobe but did not have enough as Klinetobe ended up taking the lead and walking away to take the win handily going 9-for-9 on the season. Estes placed second while Robinson, Tim Abeyta and Ethridge rounded out the top five.

After suffering issues in the previous event several weeks ago, Leonard Ward came back with a vengeance in the John’s Used Cars and Wreckers bomber division. While James Moore was fast time with a 19.174 qualifying lap, Ward was the winner in the trophy dash and the heat race. Tyler Avelar led early on in the 25-lap main event over Matt Simon and Ward. Unfortunately for Avelar and Simon, Ward’s strength proved to be too strong. Avelar held off Ward until lap eight when Ward took the lead for good.

The best action for the rest of the race proved to be between Simon and Moore. The two raced nose-to-tail for several laps. Late in the going, Moore tried to make a move to Simon’s inside off turn two. Unfortunately both drivers touched wheels which sent Moore’s car up into the air briefly before setting down on the track. The contact caused suspension damage to Moore’s car which forced him out of action. At the checkered flag it was Ward winning over Avelar, Simon and Michael Lawrence.

David Henderson set fast time for the Bear River Hotel and Casino Thunder Roadsters with a 17.160 qualifying lap, narrowly beating Paul Peeples, Jr. by three-thousands of a second. Although Henderson was the quickest in qualifying, Peeples was the man to beat when it came to the racing action as he won both the trophy dash and heat races. Mike Ward took the lead at the start of the 30-lap main but by the end of the first lap, Tommy Payne was the leader followed by Peeples. On lap two, Peeples maneuvered by Payne for second while Henderson tried to get by both Payne and Mike Ward.

Payne and Henderson fought hard in a side-by-side duel for several laps until Henderson finally took the second position away. Henderson was able to close in on Peeples but was never quite able to mount a serious challenge for the lead. Even after a caution flag for an incident off turn two involving Rob Nelson and Les Barnwell, Henderson could not use the double-file restart to his advantage. At the checkered flag it was Peeples winning followed by Henderson, Payne, Chris Sarvinski and Belinda Ward.

Mic Moulton’s 16.135 lap set the standard in qualifying for the Mid City Motor World late models over Luke Hall’s 16.141. Jerry Peterson won the trophy dash and was able to follow that win up with another in the heat race. The racing in the 35-lap feature was intense as the previous two races in the division this season. Kenny Demello led from the start but was challenged off the bat by the faster cars of Peterson and Moulton. After trying to utilize the high line for the first few laps, Moulton was able to get the grip he needed off turn two on lap five to take the lead away from Demello.

Moulton pulled away from the field as Peterson and Hall moved to second and third on lap six. It looked as though Moulton was on cruise control to the victory but everything changed on lap 19 when Joe Bonomini spun and hit the wall off the bumper of Jeb Ambrosini. After a brief restart, Peterson’s car slowed and came to a stop bringing out another yellow. After the next restart, Hall found a run on the inside of Moulton off turn four on lap 21 to take the lead.

For the next 14 laps, the top two cars ran bumper-to-bumper with Moulton gaining more and more as each lap progressed. Moulton’s best chance at the win came on the last lap coming off turn four. The two were side-by-side coming off turn four with Hall winning the drag race to the line ahead of Moulton. Demello finished third, Al Acuna fourth and rookie Ryun Leazer fifth.

Racing returns to the Acres for the annual Big 5 Fair Classic on Friday June 20^th and Saturday June 21^st. The five local divisions will be set to race both nights with Friday featuring the Quad Wars and Saturday featuring a demolition derby. As always, the grandstands open at 5:00 PM while the racing will get going at 6:30 PM. You can find more information about the 2014 season at Redwood Acres Raceway by visiting the track’s new and official website, www.racingtheacres.com.

Peterson, Henderson Pepsi night winners

Peterson, Henderson Pepsi night winners

By Matthew J. Sullivan

It was the dawn of a new era this past Saturday night at Eureka, California’s Redwood Acres Raceway as the 2014 racing season at the 3/8-mile paved oval began after an extended and lengthy off season. Besides being the first race of the new year, it was the first race for the track’s new promoters, Blair Aiken and his daughter, Jennifer Aiken. The Aikens took over promoting the Acres this year after Rich and Linda Olson decided to retire at the end of 2013 after 26 straight seasons as the track’s promoters.

Along with the new promoters taking over the responsibility of operating RAR, changes have been made on both sides of the track in order to better improve the experience for the fans. The mini stock class is back at the Acres after being away for a few years. A bigger change comes in the form of new rules for the real stock and sportsman divisions with the idea of local cars in both divisions being able to compete at other tracks in the region and vice versa.  On the fan’s side of the track, there is a new café with a fresh new menu.

The roadrunner division trophy dash win went to Gary Klinetobe. Victories in the heat races went to Steve Paiment and Klinetobe. Gray Ethridge led the opening few laps of the feature event before losing the lead to Rick Esty. A few laps later, Paiment took the lead away from Esty as the field sorted itself out.  Klinetobe and Eugene Palmer worked their way by Paiment just before Tim Abeyta had issues entering turn three and hit the wall.

Things got wild on the restart when Ethridge got together with Esty going into the first turn. Officials disqualified Ethridge for rough driving. On the next restart, Paiment spun resulting in another caution. The run to the checkered flag featured a duel between Klientobe and Palmer. Second place, Palmer tried his best to intimidate Klientobe out of the lead, including applying the bumper several times. Klientobe withstood Palmer’s challenges and went on to claim the win followed by Paiment and Kayla Foster.

Prior to racing in the bomber division, Donnie Hyman’s car suffered issues in practice which forced him out of action for the night. Leonard Ward took home the trophy dash victory while Tyler Avelar narrowly beat Ward to win the heat race. Matt Simon became the second casualty of the night in the heat when he engine let go. The bomber feature was highlighted by an intense duel for the lead between Avelar and Ward. Avelar dominated the race until the closing stages when he began suffering issues.  Ward was able to inherit the lead and cruise to victory a lap ahead of second and third place finishers, Michael Lawrence and rookie driver, James Moore.

The mini stock had only three cars show up on the night with Brian Murrell, Jr. not being able to race after issues in practice. His younger brother, Brett Murrell was able to beat Jordon Paiment in both the trophy dash and feature races. Both drivers are mini stock rookies coming up from the roadrunner division ranks.

Paul Peeples, Jr. took the trophy dash win for the Thunder Roadster cars while David Henderson won the hotly contested heat race over Peeples. The Thunder Roadster feature got off to an unfortunate start when Robbie Nelson and Peeples wrecked coming off turn two. Henderson was also involved but spun and did not receive any damage to his car.

After the restart, Chris Sarvinski and Henderson staged a fantastic nip and tuck duel for the race lead. It appeared as though Sarvinski held the advantage in the power department while Henderson had the edge in handling. With 10 laps left, Henderson was able to find the low day past Sarvinski to take the lead and the eventual victory. Sarvinski fought off Tommy Payne for the runner-up position while Bruce Ziemer took fourth.

Jerry Peterson was victorious in the late model trophy dash. Heat race victories in the division went to Al Acuna and Mic Moulton. The 35-lap feature proved to be a slam-bang affair right from the first lap. Going into the third turn, Luke Hall made contact with Kenny Demello. Demello spun and appeared to have minimal damage but was unable to return to the track. After the restart, the race was slowed again for an incident, this time between Acuna and Peterson who were racing for the lead. Thankfully both drivers were able to continue in the race.

The highlight of the entire evening was the duel for the race lead between Moulton and Hall. The two veteran drivers raced door-handle-to-door-handle for numerous laps, thrilling the packed house. Moulton appeared to have the advantage handling wise but just as he was able to put a gap between himself and Hall, a caution flag flew.

As happens in short track racing, there was contact on lap 25 when Hall got into the rear of Moulton sending Moulton spinning out of the lead and both cars to the rear of the field. This gave the lead to Peterson who had been watching the top two cars duel for the entire race. After the restart, Moulton was able to quickly maneuver his way to second but that was as far as he would get.  Peterson had enough strength to fight off a last lap challenge from Moulton who spun between turns three and four on the final lap. Moulton’s spin allowed Hall to finish second with Acuna taking the third position.

Racing returns to Redwood Acres Raceway for a special Sunday evening event this weekend, May 25^th. It’s Salute The Troops night at the Acres featuring the North State Modified Series which is in its inaugural season. Of course the five local divisions of late models, Thunder Roadsters, bombers, mini stocks and roadrunners will also be joining in the action. Grandstand ticket booths open at 5:00 PM while racing begins at 6:30 PM. There is a special test and tune event Saturday the 24^th for all divisions.

For more information regarding this weekend’s races or anything else this season, please visit Redwood Acres Raceway’s new and official website, www.racingtheacres.com.

Marcelli, Peeples, Mayo and Avelar win on opening night

The 2013 season kicked off this past Saturday evening at Redwood Acres Raceway with all four local classes in action. A great crowd was on hand to see real stocks, roadrunners, Thunder Roadsters and sportsman cars put on a fantastic show.

The real stock trophy dash was won by Tyler Avelar while Leonard Ward took the heat race victory. The feature event saw a three car incident in the early going between Ryan Walters, Chris Naughton and division rookie and 2012 Redwood Acres Raceway roadrunner champ, Michael Lawrence.  Unfortunately, Lawrence was the only car that was unable to continue.

William Sand held the lead briefly before smacking the wall allowing Avelar and Ward to get by.  Ward made his way to the lead for several laps but could not hold off the faster Avelar who took the lead late in the going and held on to win over Ward, Sand, Naughton and Walters.

Jarrett Mayo took the victory in the roadrunner trophy dash while the heat races were won by Ryun Leazer and Ken Barrett.  The roadrunner main event featured a scary incident involving Barb Paiment.  Paiment was starting her first ever race and moved high in turn one to allow the leaders to pass her safely.  Unfortunately, Paiment got too high off the second turn and hit the wall at the pit road entrance head-on. The race was halted and delayed while rescue crews extracted Paiment from her car. Paiment broke her left arm, her left ankle and her right foot in the incident.

The remainder of the race showcased a thrilling duel for the lead and the victory between Mayo and Tim Abeyta.  Abeyta did all he could to pressure Mayo into making a mistake and coming off turn four it looked as though he had a chance to steal the victory.  Unfortunately, he came up short in his effort as Mayo beat him to the checkered flag.  Kolby Jackson, Gary Kinetob and Barrett rounded out the top five.

David Henderson narrowly defeated Paul Peeples, Jr. in the Thunder Roadster trophy dash while Peeples held off Henderson for the win in the heat race. A rocky start that saw Jim Rich get loose in front of the field in turn three on the first lap gave Peeples the advantage he needed while Henderson lost precious track position to avoid wrecking.

Lonnie Tamboury held the lead in the early stages but could not hold off Peeples who took the lead.  Chris Sarvinski, who looked to be very strong on the night, followed Peeples into second and road right on his tail for the majority of the race.  Meanwhile, Henderson had to work hard to get by the likes of Thomas Payne, Allen Olson and Tamboury then had a tough battle for second with Sarvinski which he eventually won.  Henderson was in Peeples’ mirror the rest of the way but was unable to make the challenge necessary to take the lead.  At the line it was Peeples winning over Henderson, Sarvinski, Payne and Olson.

The sportsman dash was won by Brandon Barnwell while the heat race was taken by Angelo Marcelli.  Jerry Peterson took the lead from pole position in the main event and fought off Barnwell until Marcelli moved into second.  Marcelli took the lead from Peterson and looked to be home free the rest of the event.  Peterson was able to close in on the final laps and made a serious challenge on Marcelli coming off the fourth turn on the last lap.  Marcelli was able to withstand it and crossed the line first over Peterson, Kenny Demello, Barnwell and Al Acuna.

Racing resumes this Saturday night, April 27^th for Pepsi Night at the Acres.