Peterborough Speedway opened its season with an exciting lineup of racecars and stands packed with spectators for fan appreciation night.

Even the first race, Heat 1 of the Battlefield Equipment Rental Four Fun, opened with excitement with Brandon Sawers-Foster’s X car hitting the outside wall of turn three on the first lap, causing extensive damage. As the race went on, the 13 car of Griffin Powell went up in smoke as tried to chase down race leader Ryan Oosterholt, who ended up winning the heat. Heat 2 was a little more tame with only one caution as Ray Schroer held on to his pole position from start to finish. The feature was an epic battle for the lead as Oosterholt jumped into an early lead with James Thompson keeping pace on the high line, running two-wide for most of the race. With only a few laps left, Thompson was able to complete his pass in front of a cheering crowd.

Bill O’Harra dominated the Moi Perry Spring Service Renegade Truck series, winning both heats and the feature. The wins didn’t come easy as the 07 truck of Jack Dallon tried hard for the win, but he settled for second place in all three races. An inverted start in Heat 2 wasn’t even enough to keep O’Harra from victory as he pulled to the low side of 2012 Champion Andy McCann for the lead. O’Harra started pole in the feature, but Dallon kept close on his tale, bumping the race leader when opportunities arose and attempts to overtake on both the high and low sides were fruitless, giving O’Harra a perfect record on opening night.

For the first time in a number of years, Thunder Cars returned to Peterborough Speedway. Donny Beatty was able to fend off CASCAR veteran Bryan Cathcart and last year’s Kawartha Speedway Thunder Car champion Matt Spence. Ross Evans was able to do the same in Heat 2, though Spence was ready to take over should the 6x car slip up. Cathcart managed to keep a prying Spence at bay in the feature while Evans tried to get around Spence. In the end, Cathcart made his first visit to Peterborough Speedway’s Dart Heating and Cooling Victory Lane for the first time since his CASCAR victory 15 years ago. Post Race Tech inspection led to Ross Evans being disqualified from the nights finish.

It was Chris Mitchell’s night in the Vanguard Self Storage Late Models, taking the win in Heat 1, fending off Craig Graham and 2012 Champion Bryan Sudsbury. Jack Horner took the checkered flag in Heat 2 with Graham and Mitchell close behind. Sitting pole in the feature meant Mitchell had Graham beside him in the number 2 slot off the start. Graham kept the pressure on the leader, but Mitchell held a steady line and drove his #22 late model to victory.

The Peterborough Hyundai Mini Stocks were dominated by Ryan Oosterholt, taking two heat wins and the feature. 2012 Champion Tyler Junkin took home the win in Heat 2, trailed just behind Kevin Strutt for a second place finish in in Heat 4, and briefly held the lead in the feature before wrecking while trying to get through lapped traffic. Oosterholt started the feature on pole, but Junkin was immediately chasing him down. The pair weaved around lapped traffic until they came upon a set of cars running two-wide and unwilling to set their own chase for position aside to let the leaders by. As Oosterholt got caught behind a slower car, Junkin found an opening and took the lead, only to have his opening close with a screeching halt on the front straight. As the debris settled, it was clear Junkin was done for the night, opening the door for Oosterholt and Farm Brothers Racing teammate Chris Molders to take first and second.

The Ontario Legends Series paid a visit to the 1/3 mile oval as well, with Nick Ledson opening with a win in in Heat 1 and closing with victory in the feature. In Heat 2, Andy Warbutton rose from a 6th place starting position to victory. It looked like Fred Jordon would run pole from start to finish, but a bump from Bill Mason sent him to the pits, opening the door for Warbutton to jump past Duane Cinnamon on the restart. 81 was able to hold onto the lead from green to checkered in Heat 3 while Warbutton did the same in Heat 4. In the feature, it didn’t take Ledson long to find an opening on the low side of Adam Cuthbertson to take the lead. The pair battled it out for the lead on several restarts, but Ledson held him off while Wes Cuthbertson filled the third position.

Racing returns to Peterborough Speedway May 25.

PeterboroughSpeedway Media - Things may be quiet now, but Saturday, May 18^th everything will change when Canada’s Toughest 1/3^rd Mile Paved Oval roars to life as Peterborough Speedway drops the green flag on a new campaign of short track racing excitement.  Country 105 presents the 2013 season opener with free spectator grandstand admission.  Gates open at 4:00, with racing – featuring Battlefield Four Fun, Peterborough Hyundai Mini Stocks, Moi Parry Spring Service Renegade Trucks, Paul Davis Systems Thunder Cars, Legends and Vanguard Self Storage Late Models – rolling to the line at 6:00. 

Fans can expect an exciting calendar of events at the tight bull ring on Mount Pleasant Road, west of the LiftlockCity.  The thrills will start in the pit area with the return of the Thunder Cars – featuring 2012 Kawartha champion Matt Spence and fan favourite Dan Price – for the first time since 2006 and extend all the way around the track.  New drivers are expected in each division, including the father and son team of Craig and Brandt Graham of Orono, Ontario in the Late Model and Mini Stock divisions respectively.  Peterborough Speedway owner/promoter JP Josiasse says the holiday weekend lid-lifter is a great way to show the crowd what they’ll be able to expect throughout the year. 

“To say that I’m excited about this season would be an understatement,” said Josiasse with a broad smile.  “I’m taking calls, receiving e-mail and fax messages in the office morning, noon and night.  Registration forms are coming in the mail, being dropped-off in person and arriving by courier daily.  We’re expecting strong numbers in each class, but won’t have the actual car counts confirmed until we start lining-up the qualifying events on opening night.” 

Track officials have scheduled special Fan Appreciation Nights, presented by Pepsi – with toonie spectator grandstand admission – for June 1^st, July 20^th and August 17^th.  The Country 105 sponsored Mid-Summer Shootout – with extended distance feature races for the 5 regular divisions – is on the calendar for Saturday, July 13^th.  As always, racing wraps-up for the year with the Lucas Oil Products Autumn Colours Classic.  This year’s edition – the 21^st annual – is booked for Friday, Saturday and Sunday – October 11^th through 13^th and promises fans and competitors from one end of the province to the other an action-packed thrill ride.

In addition to the 5 regular divisions, fans will also see the OSCAAR Super Late Models, OSCAAR Modifieds and the Lucas Oil Sportsman Cup Series during the 2013 agenda.  Follow Peterborough Speedway on Facebook or Twitter and be sure to bookmark www.peterboroughspeedway.com to keep up with the latest news throughout the year. 

Get ready for the ultimate in short-track motorsports excitement, starting with the Country 105 season opener – featuring free spectator grandstand admission – Saturday, May 18^th at Peterborough Speedway. 

Photo attachment:  Peterborough Speedway archive

Track officials and fans are excited about the 2013 season opener – Saturday, May 18^th – at Peterborough Speedway

PeterboroughSpeedway Media

There’s been no such thing as down time.  In fact, the off-season has been very busy for officials and staff at Canada’s Toughest 1/3^rd Mile Paved Oval.  The team at Peterborough Speedway spent the winter months putting together plans for an action-packed 2013 campaign.  New drivers have registered in each of the track’s regular divisions, but perhaps the biggest news of what would usually be the venue’s most relaxing months was the return of the Thunder Car division.

For the first time since 2006, the tight bullring west of the LiftlockCity will feature the popular class and track owner/promoter J.P. Josiasse says the move has kept everyone busy getting things prepared for the Victoria Day Weekend lid-lifter.

“We’ve had a number of drivers commit to running the season with us,” said Josiasse.  “First on that list would be 2012 Kawartha track champion Matt Spence of Bailieboro.  It’ll actually be a homecoming for Matt, who began his career running here.  The pack will also include Omemee’s Craig Scott and although it’s hard to predict the actual numbers until opening night, I think we’ll have a strong Thunder Car field throughout out the year.”

Peterborough Speedway’s team is doing everything they can to make the new season one of the best in the history of the track.  Their most recent coup is the introduction of Paul Davis Systems as the sponsor of the Thunder Car division.  The restoration specialists – with locations across the country, including Paul Davis Systems of Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes – at 4 Loop Line in Omemee offers disaster, fire and flood refurbishment services for property owners and insurance professionals.  Learn more by visiting www.pds.ca or calling 705.799.7777.  Area manager Ralph Gottschalk is looking forward to being part of the upcoming agenda.

“It’s an excellent opportunity to make our name known to even more people,” said Gottschalk.  “Whenever a Thunder Car takes a lap at the track this year, there’ll be a Paul Davis Systems banner across the top of the windshield.  That will help create even more awareness to the services we offer.”

In addition to lending their nation-wide brand to the return of the Thunder Cars, Paul Davis Systems will also take on the responsibilities of the track’s official clean-up crew.  The race night team needs to be prepared for almost anything and being ready to roll the minute the yellow flag flies is great news for the race teams and fans and should keep down-time to a minimum.

Country 105 presents Peterborough Speedway’s 2013 season opener – with free spectator grandstand admission – Saturday, May 18^th.  Gates open at 4:00, with racing starting at 6:00.  Fans can follow the track on Facebook and Twitter and look to www.peterboroughspeedway.com for the latest news and schedule information.

Photo attachment:  Craig Scott collection

Fans can expect to see Omemee, Ontario’s Craig Scott in the Thunder Car field – presented by Paul Davis Systems – during the 2013 season at Peterborough Speedway.

Peterborough Speedway Media

The Peterborough Speedway Driving Experience has helped give a number of talented young drivers their first taste of the sport over the years and track officials are pleased to introduce Peterborough Automotive and Peterborough Paint and Body Supply as the popular development program’s official paint and auto parts supplier.  To best serve its goal, the Driving Experience equipment must be kept running in tip-top shape throughout the season and track owner/promoter J.P. Josiasse says Peterborough Automotive and Peterborough Paint and Body Supply is the ideal organization to contribute to that very important task.

“Our team is looking to bring some solid marketing support to the program and backing from a company like Peterborough Automotive and Peterborough Paint and Body Supply fits that template perfectly,” said Josiasse.  “Their customer driven approach and professional service makes them a leader in a highly competitive automotive aftermarket industry.”

At 898 Ford Street in Peterborough – as well as locations in Lindsay and Lakefield – Peterborough Automotive and Peterborough Paint and Body Supply is your source for a full line of automotive and heavy duty parts, tools and accessories.  They’re the name you can trust, with everything you’ll need from over 300 manufacturers and suppliers to keep your domestic or import vehicle on the road.  Whether you’re a weekend repairman, shadetree mechanic or factory-trained professional service technician, you can count on their qualified staff to supply what your job calls for at the right price.  Peterborough Automotive and Peterborough Paint and Body Supply president Scott Anderson says lending their identity to the Driving Experience is a very exciting opportunity for their customers and staff alike.

“This promises to be a big year at Peterborough Speedway,” said Anderson.  “Many of the drivers in the various divisions have supported our business for years and this is a great way to show our appreciation for their loyalty.  I’m sure the race teams are pumped to get the season rolling and we are as well.  To learn more about Peterborough Automotive and Peterborough Paint and Body Supply and what we do, visit www.ptboauto.ca or call 800.461.3656.”

Country 105 presents Peterborough Speedway’s 2013 season opener – with free spectator grandstand admission – Saturday, May 18^th.  Gates open at 4:00, with racing starting at 6:00.  Fans can follow the track on Facebook and Twitter and look to www.peterboroughspeedway.com for the latest news and schedule information.

PeterboroughSpeedway Media - With the 2013 season just days away, Peterborough Speedway officials are putting the finishing touches on plans for the new campaign before the green flag waves.  In a perfect world, you’d lock the gates at the end of one season and unlock them again when the next one begins.  As any track promoter will tell you, there’s nothing perfect about the world of short track stock car racing.  Grandstand seats need to be checked and repaired.  Fences around the facility require attention and everything must be given the once-over twice prior to the opening night.

This year’s winter months were especially busy for owner/promoter J.P. Josiasse and his team at Canada’s Toughest 1/3^rd Mile Oval.  The return of the Thunder Car class meant updating a rulebook and registering drivers.  There will also be new runners in other classes, making for an exciting time of year for the tight bullring on Mount Pleasant Road, west of the LiftlockCity.  Even with all the changes, some things will remain the same.  The promotional team is very pleased to announce the return of Vanguard Self Storage as the title sponsor for the Late Model division.

“We’re thrilled to have Vanguard Self Storage back with us for 2013,” said Josiasse.  “A solid support program is as important for the speedway as it is for the drivers who race here.  Our Late Model field could have as many as 10 new drivers this year.  That will make for some exhilarating battles on a week-to-week basis and a championship chase that could go right down to the final night of the year.”

Located at 1604 Chemong Road in Peterborough, Vanguard Self Storage has offered area residents modern, safe, clean and convenient storage units, with sizes to suit everyone’s needs since 2008.  For more information, visit www.vanguardselfstorage.ca or call 705.741.2002.  Company vice president Bert Grant says everyone at Vanguard Self Storage is looking forward to the new season and being part of the Peterborough Speedway program.

“The staff and I are eager for the year to get rolling,” said Grant.  “We’re happy to return as the Late Model division’s sponsor for a second consecutive season and wish all drivers the best of luck throughout the year.”

Country 105 presents Peterborough Speedway’s 2013 season opener – with free spectator grandstand admission – Saturday, May 18^th.  Gates open at 4:00, with racing starting at 6:00.  Fans can follow the track on Facebook and Twitter and look to www.peterboroughspeedway.com for the latest news and schedule information.

Photo attachment:  Peterborough Speedway archive

Todd Delisle and Bryan Sudsbury battle door-to-door in Vanguard Self Storage Late Model action during the 2012 season at Peterborough Speedway.

PeterboroughSpeedway Media - By its nature, the sport of short track stock car racing can defined as a rough and tumble – at sometimes, even aggressive – spectator attraction.  Saturday, July 6^th fans at Peterborough Speedway will get the chance to see the softer side of Canada’s Toughest 1/3^rd Mile Oval as the track plays host to an Autism Awareness Night.  President of the Canadian National Autism Foundation Tina Fougere says it’s all about having family fun for a great cause.

“Kid’s Race is all about accepting our loved ones with autism,” said Fougere.  “We couldn’t ask for a better place in the Kawartha’s to host our special event.  The wonderful people at Peterborough Speedway have opened their doors and more importantly, their hearts to our cause.”

Kid’s Race was started in 2010 as an idea to create a new platform for autism research and awareness.  It wasn’t too long after speaking with – and working alongside track owners, officials, drivers, crews and fans that a common bond was formed.  Everyone associated with the event quickly realized that passion, dedication, family and a love for what they do is something everyone shared.  Peterborough Speedway owner/promoter J.P. Josiasse says the Autism Awareness Night is an informative and educational event for everyone who comes through the gates.

“Our drivers, teams, crew members, sponsors and fans are quick to throw their support behind a worthwhile cause,” said Josiasse.  “Even if a member of your family hasn’t been affected by autism, you probably know someone who has and whatever we can do to help the Canadian National Autism Foundation is a win-win situation for everyone involved.”

On track action for Saturday, July 6^th at Peterborough Speedway will feature Battlefield Four Fun, Peterborough Hyundai Mini Stock, Moi Parry Spring Service Renegade Truck and Vanguard Self Storage Late Model divisions.  In addition, the Ontario Legends will make one of their 7 visits to the track during 2013 and there will also be kid’s rides.  A meet and greet with the drivers is also scheduled from 6:00 to 7:00.  Pit gates will open at 3:00, with the spectator grandstands unlocked at 5:00.

To learn more about Kid’s Race, visit www.kidsrace.ca or call 888.977.RACE (7223).  The Canadian National Autism Foundation web-site is www.cnaf.net.

Follow Peterborough Speedway on Facebook or Twitter and be sure to bookmark www.peterboroughspeedway.com to keep up with the latest news throughout the year.

PeterboroughSpeedway Media - The vintage styling of the #09 machine turns heads and draws the attention of fans with the wave of every green flag.  When the new campaign kicks-off – with the Country 105 presentation of the 2013 season opener Saturday, May 18^th – Brooklin, Ontario’s Dan Price will show his colours in the Thunder Car division at Peterborough Speedway.

While he originally used sheet metal from a 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass on his ride, Price – a long-time classic automobile aficionado – chose to combine his passions to start the 2009 season, with a body from a 1955 Pontiac on the Thunder Car.  By the end of 2011, those panels were starting to show some battle scars and were replaced with 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air components to start the 2012 session.  Price says it’s almost a full-time job keeping the car on the track.

“In school, they teach you to look where you want to go while driving.  I think a lot of the other drivers wanted to go into the side of my car,” said Price with a laugh.  “Over the first couple of years with the Pontiac body panels on the car, we were collected in some of the hardest crashes in my career.  In many cases, I got caught-up in someone else’s issue, but 1955 fenders and doors aren’t that easy to find, so I needed to change the body at the start of last year.”

Over the years, the 36 year-old Hydro One lineman has raced Mini Stocks, Challenger/Limited Late Models, Late Models and Super Lates at just about every paved speedway in the province.  Recently, he’s tried his hand at dirt track Endurance events at venues in Ontario and New YorkState.  Price – who enjoys tinkering with hot rods, dirt biking and skiing in his spare time – says he likes the cars, the people and the family involvement that comes with short track racing.

“My wife Erin and daughter Cambrie come with me almost every time and every where I race,” said Price.  “My brother Donovan runs with the Ontario Legends Series and I’ve met so many great people over the years.  It’s a big thrill to see someone else race in my car; especially if they’re faster than I am.  No matter where I go, just coming through the pit gates gives me butterflies and I hope that feeling never goes away.”

Like every driver, Dan Price has a racing ‘bucket list’ and would like to see an event at Eldora; just as a fan.  As a competitor, he hopes to some day turn a few laps at New Smyrna (Florida), Kalamazoo (Michigan) and a wide range of other circuits.  In a perfect world, he’d like to see the pavement tracks band together – much like dirt tracks have – to create a more uniform set of rules that would allow drivers to travel a little more.  He would also like to see cars go through more detailed pre and post race technical inspections.

For his 2013 season at Peterborough Speedway, his Thunder Car will carry sponsor support from Langille’s Scrap, Desjardins Financial – Ajax, Hy-Hope Farm Market and Golf Course and A & T Mechanical, with promotional assistance by Clarke Motorsports Communications.  In the garage and at the track, maintenance will be handled by the driver, with his wife, daughter and brother Donovan, as well as friend James Wills.

Fans can follow Dan Price on Facebook or Twitter @danpriceracing. Prospective sponsors interested in joining the #09 team should e-mail Topgearwfo@live.com.

The new campaign at Peterborough Speedway kicks-off as Country 105 presents the 2013 season opener – with free spectator grandstand admission – Saturday May 18^th.  Pit gates open at 2:00. Spectator gates at 4:00, with racing at 6:00.  For complete schedule details and the latest news, see www.peterboroughspeedway.com.

Photo attachment:  Dan Price collection

Brooklin, Ontario’s Dan Price is looking forward to running his #09 Thunder Car at Peterborough Speedway.  The track’s 2013 campaign kicks-off – with the Country 105 Season Opener – Saturday, May 18^th.

PeterboroughSpeedway Media - The 2013 season is shaping-up to be one of the biggest in the history of Canada’s toughest 1/3^rd of a mile asphalt oval.  Peterborough Speedway officials are excited about bringing new marketing partners into the fold and recently announced Attersley Tire as the presenting sponsor for the Saturday, August 10^th program featuring the Lucas Oil Sportsman Cup.  Track owner/promoter J.P. Josiasse says he’s thrilled to have the Attersley Tire colours fly at the track for this popular show.

“They’ve been an advertiser in our weekly magazine for a number of years, so they’re obviously a strong supporter of what we do,” said Josiasse.  “It will be great to welcome the team from the local branch of Attersley Tire to Peterborough Speedway for an amazing night of action, topped-off with a 100 lapper for the Lucas Oil Sportsman Cup.”

With a store at 677 Crown Drive in Peterborough – as well as locations in Port Perry and Oshawa – Attersley Tire offers a full line of passenger car, light truck, commercial and farm tires.  You’ll also find a selection of wheels and rims for all vehicles.  Attersley Tire provides 24 hour roadside assistance with a fully-stocked fleet of vehicles to take care of any need and keep down-time to a minimum.  Call 800.860.5486 anytime of the day or night.  Area store manager Logan Shearer says he and his team are looking forward to their night at the track.

“We’ve always had some solid customer feedback from our program ads, so we figured it was time to get involved a little more and when the event sponsorship opportunity came along, it was the perfect chance,” said Shearer.  “Motorsport supporters are very loyal to the brands, products and services they’ve have a positive experience with and spending the night taking in a great night of racing at Peterborough Speedway is a terrific way to build the Attersley Tire name.  J.P. and his people have some big plans in store for the 2013 season.  We’re excited to be part of the team and welcome our customers and friends to Attersley Tire night at the speedway Saturday, August 10^th.

After finishing 4^th in championship points and earning a popular first career trip to the winner’s circle during the 2012 campaign, Amanda Connolly will have the hometown crowd in her corner when the Lucas Oil Sportsman Cup pack rolls into the bullring west of the Liftlock City.  In addition to the Lucas Oil Sportsman Cup, the Saturday, August 10^th show will also include Battlefield Equipment Rental Four Fun, Moi Parry Spring Service Renegade Trucks, Thunder Cars, Hurricane Midgets and King of the Hill.  Pit gates open at 2:00; spectator grandstands are unlocked at 5:00 with the first green flag at 6:00.

Follow Peterborough Speedway on Facebook or Twitter and be sure to bookmark www.peterboroughspeedway.com to keep up with the latest news throughout the year.

Photo attachment:  Amanda Connolly collection

Local favourite Amanda Connolly will have a huge cheering section for Attersley Tire night Saturday, August 10^th when the Lucas Oil Sportsman Cup Series visits Peterborough Speedway.

PeterboroughSpeedway Media - As the seasons transition from winter to spring, the typically quiet community of Orono, Ontario becomes a hive of activity.  The father and son stock car race team of Craig and Brandt Graham is busy preparing for the 2013 season at Peterborough Speedway.

He may not have turned a lap on the racetrack since midway through the 2011 season, but Craig Graham was never far from the sport.  The 40 year old father of 2 spent last year mentoring his son Brandt during his first year of action in Kawartha Speedway’s Mini Stock class.  The youngster was obviously paying attention to his father’s tutelage, as he finished 8^th in the final point standings and was named the division’s rookie of the year.

“I don’t know how much I taught him, but he must have been listening when we talked,” said Craig Graham when asked to describe his son’s early career stock car racing success.  “Every time he strapped into the car, the crew and I told Brandt the most important part of racing was to have fun.  He picked-up some useful racing skills while running with the KDKC and was able to apply them to what he did with the Mini Stock.  Everyone was very pleased with the results he was able to achieve last season.”

As they head into the new campaign at the tricky 1/3^rd of a mile bullring west of the LiftlockCity, the Graham Racing team of Dad and the Lad is both excited and tense.  Getting one car ready for the action can be stressful enough, but the preparing a pair of championship calibre teams takes some long hours in the garage and a dedicated crew to organize the Late Model and Mini Stock machines for battle.  Even though they’re always willing to welcome new crew members into the fold, Graham is confident in the team’s ability to do the job.

“My father-in-law Marten Rottine has a real passion for working on the racecars,” said the Fixed Operations Manager at Clarington Hyundai in Bowmanville.  “Without Marten, there’s no way that Brandt and I would be racing anywhere.  He works about 5 days a week year-round on the cars, tow vehicles and trailers.  We’ve been able to put together a great team of Mark Rottine, Blair Graham and my father, Ian.  These guys have been with me since the beginning and I appreciate their help in the shop and at the track.  Now that we’ll be running both cars on a regular basis, the work has doubled so we’ve recruited some new people.”

During the 2012 season – where Brandt Graham was named Kawartha Speedway’s Mini Stock rookie of the year – the 15 year-old ClarkeHigh School student admitted a desire to run head-to-head against his father on the speedway.  While that day may still be on the horizon, for now the youngster will be content to park beside his Dad in the pits at Peterborough.  To help his team, the sophomore speedster has brought in classmate Josh Ullrich to lend a hand on his car.

For the 2013 season, the #98 and #12B Graham Racing team will be supported by P.J. Larkin Salvage, Hot Rod Swag, Motorhead Canada and SJM Improvements, with promotional assistance from Clarke Motorsports Communications.  The team is always interested in hearing from prospective sponsors for their attack on the Vanguard Self Storage Late Model and Peterborough Hyundai Mini Stock divisions at Peterborough Speedway.  Contact Craig Graham at graham.98@hotmail.com or look for the team’s Facebook page at Graham 98 Racing.

Peterborough Speedway gets rolling for the year as Country 105 presents the 2013 season opener – with free spectator grandstand admission – Saturday, May 18^th.  For full schedule details and the latest news, visit www.peterboroughspeedway.com.

Photo attachments:  Graham Racing Collection

1). Orono, Ontario teen Brandt Graham will take his Mini Stock to Peterborough Speedway for 2013 and will be joined by his father Craig, who will compete in the Late Model division.

2). Mentoring his son during the 2012 season rekindled the fire of competition for Craig Graham.  His #98 machine will be part of the Late Model wars this year at Peterborough Speedway.

PeterboroughSpeedway Media - The money is always nice, but it’s more about the shiny trophy you get to display in your shop.  The prestige that comes with the win and the line on your resume saying you’ve captured the most sought after prize Ontario short-track asphalt stock car racing has to offer.  Winning the Autumn Colours Classic at Peterborough Speedway is an accomplishment drivers in close to 10 different divisions hope to claim every year.

To enhance the Autumn Colours experience and give drivers from different tracks some extra time on the tight 1/3^rd mile layout, officials will host 2 diverse Chase for the Colours qualifying events.  The winner of each extra distance show will earn the inside front row starting spot for their respective feature races during the annual Thanksgiving Weekend extravaganza.  Track owner/promoter JP Josiasse says the pole qualifying format – presented by Lucas Oil Products – is a popular experience for race teams and fans.

“Drivers love to get track time, especially when they’re coming into a highly competitive show like Autumn Colours,” said Josiasse.  “Peterborough Speedway is a tricky layout and can be a bit intimidating the first time you race here.  The chance to add some extra pages to your set-up notebook will help even the most experienced racer.”

The first Chase for the Colours pole qualifying show is Sunday, June 30^th and features a 75 lapper for the Late Models, as well as 25 lap Four Fun, 30 lap Mini Stock and 40 lap Thunder car main events.  Pit gates will open at 11:00, with spectator admission at 1:00 and racing at 2:30.  Saturday, August 3^rd a 50 lap OSCAAR Super Late Model and 30 lap OSCAAR Modified feature will be the highlight events for the touring ‘Chase’ format.  Pit gates open at 2:00, with grandstand admission at 4:00.  Racing begins at the regular 6:00.  The show will also include action for the Four Fun, Mini Stock and Renegade Truck divisions.

“The Autumn Colours Classic is easily one of the most important events on the annual motorsports landscape; evident by the fact that close to 230 different teams registered for the 2012 edition,” said Josiasse.  “Everyone who rolls through the pit gates has the same chance to drive away with the big prize, but claiming the pole position starting spot for the main event after winning one of the ‘Chase’ qualifiers could provide the motivation a team needs to make it to the winner’s circle.”

For more information on Peterborough Speedway’s 2013 season – including the Chase for the Colours pole qualifying events – see www.peterboroughspeedway.com.

Photo attachment:  Peterborough Speedway archive

Tom Walters holds-off a late race challenge from Andy Kamarath to claim the 2012 Late Model Chase for the Colours checkered flag.

PeterboroughSpeedway Media - The nights are still cold, but that hasn’t stopped officials at Canada’s toughest 1/3^rd mile asphalt oval from releasing an action-packed schedule of events for a hot spring, summer and fall season of racing. Peterborough Speedway owner/promoter J.P. Josiasse says it was important to get the word to race teams and fans as early as possible.

“Knowing when and where you’re going to run for the year can often be the final puzzle piece that needs to fit when it comes to signing a sponsor,” said Josiasse.  “Financial and product backing is an important part of short track racing and we’ve always been committed to giving our teams every possible advantage in that department.”

The year’s first green flag, presented by Country 105 – with free spectator grandstand admission – has been scheduled for Saturday, May 18^th but teams will have 3 chances to hit the track to fine-tune their equipment before the opening night.  A practice session has been booked for a 12:00 start Saturday, May 11^th with additional warm-up rounds planned to begin at 4:00 Tuesday and Thursday, May 14^th and 16^th.

With the Thunder Car division returning to the bullring on Mount Pleasant Road west of Peterborough for the first time since 2006 and new teams joining the ranks in the speedway’s other divisions, fans have already filled the internet forums with pre-season chatter that has track management excited about what’s in store for the next round of weekly wars.

“I’ve been responding to voicemail and e-mail messages since we waived the final checkered flag at Autumn Colours,” said Josiasse.  “Drivers are looking for changes to the rule book and asking to have registration forms sent.  It’s an exciting time of year, but we won’t actually know who’s coming until the opening night.”

For 2013, weekly racing at Peterborough Speedway will include Thunder Cars, Battlefield Four Fun, Peterborough Hyundai Mini Stocks, Moi Parry Spring Service Renegade Trucks and Vanguard Self Storage Late Models.  OSCAAR Super Late Model fans will have 2 regular season chances to see their favourites – on August 3^rd and August 24^th – with the upstart OSCAAR Modifieds on the bill for the first of the 2 events.

The Lucas Oil Sportsman Cup tour will run a 100 lapper Saturday, August 10^th.  Other special divisions on the calendar will include the Ontario Legends, Hurricane Midgets and TQ Midgets.  Peterborough Speedway’s highlight event of the year is the 21^st annual Autumn Colours Classic, October 11^th, 12^th and 13^th with battles in nearly every asphalt racing division in the province, including OSCAAR Super Late Models, Open Wheeled Modifieds, Pro Late Models, Hurricane Midgets and the track’s 5 regular classes.

Fans can get details of the full 2013 schedule, including the Fan Appreciation Nights with toonie grandstand admission – June 1^st, July 20^th and August 17^th – during the Durham Fast and Furious Motorsports Expo – Saturday and Sunday, April 6^th and 7^th – at the Grant B. Rickard Recreation Centre, 2440 Highway 2 in Bowmanville.

Follow Peterborough Speedway on Facebook or Twitter and be sure to bookmark www.peterboroughspeedway.com to keep up with the latest news throughout the year.

Photo attachment:  Peterborough Speedway archive

Fan Appreciation Nights – June 1^st, July 20^th and August 17^th – with toonie grandstand are part of Peterborough Speedway’s 2013 schedule.  See www.peterboroughspeedway.com for details.

PeterboroughSpeedway Media - It was a dream come true.  From the drop of the year’s first green flag, 2012 was a memorable campaign for the team of car owner Dave Landles and driver Matt Spence.  Although delayed by 2 weeks from the originally scheduled date, Spence earned a clean sweep of Kawartha Speedway’s opening night qualifying heat, semi feature and main event.  That strong start paved the way to a Thunder Car track championship, but with the Fraserville oval taking a hiatus, Landles and Spence will spend the 2013 season on the 3^rd of a mile layout of Peterborough Speedway.  The 25 year old wheelman from Bailieboro, Ontario – who began his racing career in a family owned car at the age of 14 – says he’s looking forward to the new campaign at the site of some of his early career success.

“I’m hoping we can carry the momentum of the championship season once we get rolling,” said the emergency vehicle technician at Kerr Industries in Oshawa.  “Dave and I started working together in 2009 at Kawartha.  In those days, we’d share the driving duties from week-to-week, but when my name was painted above the door, I knew I had to step-up my game and get the job done.  Racing luck certainly worked in our favour last year.  Even on nights when our equipment was less than perfect, we still managed to log a decent finish and roll the car back into the trailer for the trip back home.”

When the Landles/Spence alliance and the rest of the Thunder Car field leaves the staging area on the opening night of the new schedule, it’ll be a trip back in time for the tight bullring west of Peterborough.  The division hasn’t been part of the track’s regular agenda since 2006.  Spence says he isn’t worried about heading into the year without knowing what’s in store; in fact, he’s quite excited.

“Some of the teams may have raced at Peterborough before during the annual Autumn Colours event,” said the driver of the #53 www.sellmunity.com Worldwide Internet Classified site Thunder Car, in partnership with Durham Furnace, Graphic Lettering Services and NAPA Pineridge Auto Supply, with promotional assistance by Clarke Motorsports Communications.  “When you’re coming into a new situation, you can never tell what you’ll face.  You need to learn about how the other drivers will race and what line they like to run on the track.  I’ll be sitting behind the steering wheel, but it’ll almost be like being a fan.  It’s neat to get to know the other drivers and make some new friends.”

Peterborough Speedway’s campaign gets underway Saturday, May 18^th as Country 105 presents the 2013 season opener, with free grandstand admission.  Teams will get a chance to practice Saturday, May 11^th at noon, as well as Tuesday and Thursday, May 14^th and 16^th starting at 4:00.

The #53 Thunder Car team is always interested in hearing from prospective sponsors to add to their successful program.  To learn more, contact car owner Dave Landles at dave@durhamfurnace.ca or driver Matt Spence at spenceracing92@gmail.com.

Photo attachment:  Matt Spence Collection

After winning Kawartha Speedway’s Thunder Car championship in 2012, Matt Spence will take his Dave Landles owned #53 machine to Peterborough Speedway for the 2013 season.

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications - Weather conditions were about 15 degrees cooler, but the action on the racetrack was just as hot as the second day of the 20^th Annual Autumn Colours Classic – presented by Lucas Oil Products – at Peterborough Speedway took the green flag.  As they had Friday, teams in all divisions took to the tricky 1/3^rd mile oval for some hot laps before the day’s heat races got underway.

The OSCAAR Super Late Models kicked-off the day’s action with a trio of qualifying events.  The first round belonged to NASCAR Canadian Tire Series standout and part-time Camping World Truck Series runner J.R. Fitzpatrick.  Stayner,Ontario’s Brandon Watson unofficially clinched the 2012 OSCAAR championship by winning the second heat, with Rob Poole claiming round number 3.  The Hurricane Midgets also made their first race appearance of the weekend, with Adam Tyo and Mike Westwood splitting a pair of heat races.

Pro Late Model teams ran their second round of qualifying for Sunday’s 112 lap main event, with a trio of heats.  Brad Corcoran, Brandon Watson and Dwayne Baker took the checkered flags.  While leaving the track after the second Pro Late Model heat, defending Autumn Colours race winner Dan McHattie made contact with the outside retaining wall and damaged the rear clip on his #71 Dodge. The team attempted to make repairs at the track, before taking the car to their shop in nearby Cavan to check things over.

Matt Mulholland, John Baker Jr., Randy Rusnell and Travis Hallyburton secured their feature race starting spots in the 4 Thunder Car qualifying heats.  The day’s qualifying sessions for the OSCAAR Open Wheeled Modifieds went to Gary McLean and Tim Burke.  The Hurricane Midgets were back for a pair of 8 lap heat races to finalize the line-up for their Saturday night main event, with Mike Westwood and Robin McLean taking the wins.  Marvin Freiburger, Jason Parker, Al Inglis and Tom Walters each won a Limited Late Model qualifier, with Daryl Fice, Casey Cavanaugh, Neil Hannah and Warren Paxton taking the Saturday night Mini Stock heats.  Hannah and James Townsend shared a pair of 4 Fun qualifying events.

A 20 lap Hurricane Midget ‘A’ main was the only feature event on the Saturday schedule, as more than 25 of machines took the green flag. After running the first 18 circuits without a yellow flag, the race pace was red flagged when the #51 of Ryan Brown became airborne as he exited the 2^nd turn.  After being checked at the scene, Brown was taken back to his pit area by rescue personnel.  With a green, white checkered finish, Mike Westwood picked-up the win.  A.J. Emms, Jamie Bound, Robin McLean and Paul Draganac completed the top 5.

The final OSCAAR Super Late Model preliminary rounds were split into 3 groups, with John Owen, George Wilson and Charlie Gallant taking the checkered flags.  Gallant celebrated his victory with a fist pump as he crossed the line.  Peterborough Speedway was the site of Gallant’s first career OSCAAR main event win, less than a month earlier.

The final order of business on the night was the last chance qualifiers that would complete the starting line-ups.  The Thunder Cars were first for a 20 lapper that would move 4 starters to Sunday afternoon’s feature.  Shawn McGlynn took the win.  Adam Misener claimed the Mini Stock ‘B’Main, with Tyler Liscum grabbing the Limited Late Model win.

What is your favourite Classic Autumn Colour?:  During the day’s 4^th and final Mini Stock heat, guaranteed starter Alex Lees had his car tapped from behind when Ryan Brentnell lost control while running through turns 3 and 4.  Lees’ #07 machine hit the wall head-on and the car was finished for the weekend.  Family members took the driver to the local hospital where he was diagnosed with a concussion and kept overnight for observation…Mother Nature caused a couple of slight delays in the action, but as quickly as the showers arrived, the track was dried and cars were back on the track…The winner’s share of the Shriner’s 50/50 during Saturday’s show was $672.

Sunday is a full day of feature events as the 20^th Annual Autumn Colours Classic – presented by Lucas Oil Products – at Peterborough Speedway wraps-up.  Pit gates open at 10:00, with the day’s first green flag at 12:30.  For complete details, see www.peterboroughspeedway.com.

Photo attachment:  Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications

CapitalCitySpeedwayregular Todd Musker is looking for a strong run in Sunday’s Thunder Car main event during the 20^th Annual Autumn Colours Classic – presented by Lucas Oil Products – at Peterborough Speedway.

Prepared by:  Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications

clarkemotorsports@hotmail.com

613.968.6410  /  613.922.0654

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications - Branded as the ‘Largest Race Event in the Province’, the opening day of the 20^th Annual Autumn Colours Classic – presented by Lucas Oil Products – at Peterborough Speedway certainly lived-up to its advance billing.  A stuck throttle that caused the #11 Limited Late Model of Jason Legge ride the 3^rd turn retaining wall and leave the park during pre-race practice was the only serious incident of the day.  The dejected driver took a mandatory ride back to his pit with rescue personnel, but was uninjured.  The Sauble Speedway regular had his Autumn Colours’ experience end before taking a single lap of green flag action.  Other than that, Friday’s action saw only a couple of minor incidents and some excellent side-by-side racing during the weekend’s first round of qualifying.

The upstart Renegade Truck division came to the line first for their 8 lap qualifying event, won by Jeff Remington.  Andrew Gresel, Gord Shepherd and Ryan Kimball each laid claim to a Pro Late Model opening duel.  Will Davies, Casey Cavanaugh, Justin Bierworth and Alex Lees shared the Mini Stock preliminary rounds, with Brian Strawn and Justin DiMelo capturing the Open Wheel Modified heats.

Andy McCann captured the second Renegade Truck qualifier, with Dan Archibald, Lane Zardo, Paul Maltese and Nick Roth taking the checkered flags in Thunder Car action.  The Limited Late Model heat races went to Thane Hallyburton, Gord Shepherd, Chris Mitchell and Scott McTeer.  Andy McCann made it to victory lane again, winning the 12 lap Renegade Truck feature over Tiffany VandeBelt, Gary Tryon and Jeff Remington.  Friday’s action came to a close with Ryan Oosterholt and Chris Mulders grabbing the 4 Fun qualifying rounds.

What is your favourite Classic Autumn Colour?  After running near the front of the pack during the night’s 4^th and final Limited Late Model heat race, Sunset Speedway point champion Tom Walters dropped off the pace.  His #47 machine suffered a blown engine, forcing the team to head back to their Queensville, Ontario shop to pick-up a back-up car to finish the weekend…An uncharacteristic solo spin coming off the  second turn left defending Pro Late Model winner and 2012 Kawartha champion Dan McHattie under the car making some late night changes, while other drivers were swapping war stories with friends and rivals…Forced to miss the entire afternoon’s practice session because of work commitments, Bryan Mercer – the 3^rd place finisher in Kawartha Speedway’s 2012 NAPA Auto Parts ACT Late Model standings – still managed a 3^rd place effort in his Pro Late Model qualifying heat…As is common with the Autumn Colours Classic, the Peterborough Speedway pit area was filled to overflowing, forcing officials to use a nearby field for the excess…The weekend’s first 50/50 draw paid $500 to a race fan who had made the trip from Elliott Lake, Ontario.

Action continues Saturday, October 6^th, with practice beginning at 1:00 and racing at 3:30.  Sunday, October 7^th, all divisions will stage their feature events, with racing starting at 12:30.  Pit gates will open at 10:00 each day.  For complete details on the 20^th Annual Autumn Colours Classic – presented by Lucas Oil Products – be sure to see www.peterboroughspeedway.com.

Photo attachment:  Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications

Dwayne Baker (#48) and Chris Ferguson run some Pro Late Model practice laps prior to the first night of action during the 20^th Annual Autumn Colours Classic – Friday, October 5^th – at Peterborough Speedway.

Prepared by:  Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications

clarkemotorsports@hotmail.com

613.968.6410  /  613.922.0654

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications - The turkey, mashed potatoes and stuffing can wait.  Motorsports fans are giving thanks for the 20^th Annual Edition of the Autumn Colours Classic – presented by Lucas Oil Products – October 5^th, 6^th and 7^th at Peterborough Speedway.  It’s a late season racing experience, labelled by fans across the province as the year’s must-see event. Track owner/promoter J.P. Josiasse says the area around the tight, 1/3^rd mile oval turns into its own little community during the 3 day extravaganza.

“Even when the cars aren’t on the track, there’ll be something going on around the clock,” said Josiasse.  “The camping area has been booked for over a month and everyone has a great time.  We have more than a half a dozen different divisions running throughout the entire weekend.  Some people will come for a day or 2, but the real diehards – those who are here every year – roll in Friday morning and unless they need to restock their supplies, don’t leave until the final checkered flag Sunday night.”

Although the pit gates don’t officially open until10:00Friday morning, track officials are on hand Thursday night to allow teams to search out the prime pit area parking spots.  Social media sites like Facebook and Twitter were buzzing about drivers lining-up as early as10:30Wednesday morning, looking to grab one of the limited number of stalls with the concrete pads.  Josiasse says its part of the routine for the Autumn Colours’ regulars.

“I’m used to it, so it really doesn’t faze me anymore,” said the track’s head honcho.  “Most years, there are so many race teams in the pits; we have to put some of them in the parking lot.  Once the racing gets underway, you’d almost need a shoehorn to find a spot to sit in the grandstands.”

Capturing an Autumn Colours Classic main event win isn’t just another checkered flag.  It could very well be the moment that defines your motorsports career.  Just ask Nick Lees, Chris Mitchell, Daryl Fice, Tyler Hendricks, Dan McHattie or Rick Walt.  They’re just some of the names who found their way to victory lane during the 2011 edition of the event.

For early arrivals, the concessions stands at Peterborough Speedway will be serving breakfast all 3 days.  Pit gates open all 3 days at 10:00.  Friday, October 5^th, practice rounds start at 1:00 and racing at 6:00.  Saturday, October 6^th, practice begins at 1:00 and racing at 3:30.  Sunday, October 7^th is a full day of feature race action beginning at12:30.

For more information on the 20^th Annual Autumn Colours Classic – presented by Lucas Oil Products – October 5^th, 6^th and 7^th at Peterborough Speedway, see www.peterboroughspeedway.com.

Prepared by:  Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications

clarkemotorsports@hotmail.com

613.968.6410  /  613.922.0654