Rain Forces Cancellation of Fan Appreciation Night At Scenic Raceway; Rescheduled For August 20th

Oneida, TN (2005-08-13) Sunny morning skies gave way to afternoon rain over Scenic Raceway, forcing the cancellation of Saturday night’s Fan Appreciation activities and the final points race of the season.

“We were looking forward to tonight,” remarked track owner Johnny King. “Fan Appreciation Night is a special time at Scenic Raceway, as fans, especially younger fans, really enjoy meeting the drivers.”

Saturday night was also the final points event of the 2005 season. “The final points race was going to be exciting”, commented owner Dorothy King.

With just twenty-five laps of racing left, the Limited Late Model division points are really close. With five wins this season, Rylan Bowlin (#93) of Oneida, TN leads the chase with 358, just two points ahead of David Pierce (#27) of LaFollette, TN (356). Hollin Carson (#12) of Oneida is third (279) with Wesley Coffey (#2) of Stearns, KY is fourth (220). Two-time winner Larry Gray (#12) of Lexington, KY rounds out the top five (213).

In the Open Wheel division, Matthew “The West End Warrior” Hopper (#92) of Lancing, TN leads the points chase (409), holding a narrow twenty-five point advantage over Merle Jones (#96) of Smithtown, KY (384). Amos “Homegrown” Bunch (#0) of Wartburg, TN is third (327) while Thomas Lay (#7) of Winfield, TN is fourth (301). Kevin Douglas (#0) of Whitley City is fifth (273).

At just 14-years-old and in his rookie season, Dale Nance (#91) of Lancing, TN has clinched the Modified Street points championship at Scenic Raceway. Nance has amassed 409 this season, outpacing the nearest driver, William Van Norstran (#99), who had 328. Benny Duncan (#25) of Petros, TN is third (235), while Chris Seeber (#14) of Oliver Springs, TN is a close fourth (231). Mike Bell (#48) is fifth (182).

With four wins this season, Casey Riseden (#97) of Winfield, TN has clinched the Pure Street Points Championship. Riseden (405) has a sixty-seven point lead over Johnny “The Fly” Campbell (#77) of LaFollette, who has 388. Chad “War Daddy” Hutson (#64) of Huntsville, TN is third (211), while Jimmy Smith (#26) of Pine Knot, KY is fourth (209). Phillip Couch (#13) is fifth (177).

Gates will open next Saturday (August 20th) night at 5:00 p.m. Fan appreciation will begin at 7 o’clock. Racing will follow. The season’s top drivers will be awarded trophies at the end of competition.

For more information about Fan Appreciation Night or the final points race of the season, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Bowlin Makes Fifth Trip To Victory Lane At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2005-08-06) Rylan “Hoot” Bowlin (#93) of Oneida, TN returned to victory lane Saturday night, mastering the high banks of Scenic Raceway. Saturday, August 13, 2005 will be fan appreciation night at Scenic Raceway, an opportunity for fans to meet their favorite driver. It will also be the final points event of the season.

Bowlin piloted his JJ’s Cleaning Service/Uncle Dale’s Trading Post/American Express Financial Advisors Derek and Kyle Keeton/Bilstein Shock/West Haven Speed Equipment SouthPaw Racing Chassis Limited Late Model powered by a Wildman Racing Engine to his fifth win of the season Saturday night, outpacing a field of twenty-four competitors. Bowlin started the night on the pole, a position he drew following a lottery of the four heat winners. He lined up inside Anthony Chambers (#44) of Helenwood, TN, who took the outside pole. Heat winners Jeff Adkisson (#1) of Petros, TN and Jim Butler (#33) of Oneida, TN comprised the second row, starting third and fourth respectively.

Twenty-four cars started Saturday night’s Limited Late Model feature, but only a third of those cars would finish the lap shortened twenty-lap event. Six cars were eliminated before the field would complete the first lap, as a series of caution flags flew in the early running. On the third attempt, the race was red flagged, the result of a four car pile up on the backstretch. Hollin Carson (#12) of Oneida, TN, who was running on the bottom, got turned midway down the backstretch, causing his car to abruptly turn right and into the path of Travis Armes (#01) of Petros, TN, Wesley Ball (#3) of Whitley City, KY and Wayne “Chigger” Reed (#55) of Oneida, TN. The race was slowed two more times on the first lap, cautions caused by spins by Jacob Feinstad (#27) and Kenny Tyra (#88) of Oneida, TN.

Once the race final got underway, Bowlin rocketed to the lead, holding off Chambers. On the third lap, Adkisson slipped past Chambers in turn two, taking second. On a restart on lap eight, mechanical problems would end Adkisson’s night, sending him to the pits. With Bowlin leading, Chambers assumed second, but would lose the slot to Butler, who drove under him in the second corner. Half a lap later, Chambers, attempting to regain his spot, lost it in turn four, spinning out and bringing out the caution. Chambers restarted the race in eighth, but managed to claw his way back to sixth before losing two spots in the closing laps.

Butler mounted a pair of charges on Bowlin, getting alongside the leader, but was never able to make the pass as Bowlin, who was running the topside, rocketed off the corner and shut the door. Donald Runyan (#14) of Hazard, KY, in his first show the year, finished third Saturday night. Brad Adkisson (#A1) of Petros, TN and Mike Stedam (#278) of Wartburg, TN finished fourth and fifth respectively.

Tyra (#88) earned the headache award Saturday night, crashing on the front stretch on lap seventeen to bring out the second red flag of the evening. Tyra, who had already spun out twice earlier in the event, was riding around at the rear of the field when disaster struck. A mechanical failure on Tyra’s new car caused it to pitch violently forward, then hook up on the track and begin flipping. Tyra's car rolled at least three times before coming to rest on its wheels. Tyra was uninjured in the accident.

Sixteen cars started Saturday night’s Open Wheel feature. Skylar Marlar (#257) sporting a new number and paint scheme earned his first pole position of the year, capturing the checkered flag in the first heat. Two-time Scenic Raceway winner Don Adams (#90) of London, KY completed the front row. Adams quickly assumed the lead Saturday night in his Lightning Chassis sponsored ride, while Marlar slipped into second. On lap five, Dennis Barton (#35) drove under Marlar in the second turn, taking second. Two laps later, Marlar dropped another spot, losing third to Merle Jones (#96) of Monticello, KY. On lap ten, Marlar set his sights on the leader, blowing by Jones. A lap later, Marlar slipped past Barton to retake second. Meanwhile Adams, who clearly had the dominant car, drove away from the field. Jones finished third, while Barton cross the line fourth. Billy Palmer (#25) rounded out the top five.

It was a flag to flag victory Saturday night for John “The Preacherman” Vespie (#1611) in the Modified Street class. Vespie, who normally competes in the Limited Late Model division, dominated the race in his Gina’s Quick Mart/Custom Paint and Body Modified ride. Brian “Double Pump” Hooks (#B3) of Clinton, TN mounted a early charge in the race, rocketing from fifth to second in just two laps; however, Hooks’ expired early, bowing out on lap six. Dale Nance (#91) of Lancing, TN finished second, followed by Danny Sumpter (#6) of Nancy, KY. David West (#33) of Oneida and Chris “Superman” Seeber (#14) of Oliver Springs, TN finished fourth and fifth respectively.

Casey Riseden (#97) of Winfield earned another victory in the Pure Street division, her fourth of the season. Riseden led from green to checkered flag in her Kenny’s Rowboat Chevy Chevelle, out-driving a field of ten competitors. The biggest mover of the race was Chad “War Daddy” Hutson (#64) of Helenwood, TN, coming from a sixth place start to finish second, his best of the season. Michael Shumaker (#8) of Lake City, TN finished third, while Ricky “Possum” Hooks (#H1) of Clinton, TN finished fourth. Johnny “The Fly” Campbell (#77) of LaFollette, TN rounded out the top five.

Saturday, August 13, 2005 will be Fan Appreciation Night at Scenic Raceway. Race fans will have an opportunity to meet and talk with their favorite drivers without having to buy a pit pass. Fan appreciation ceremonies will be held prior to Saturday night’s race program. It will also be the final points event of the season. Trophies will be awarded to the season’s best drivers following the race.

Scenic Raceway features four classes of racing every Saturday night: Limited Late Model, Open Wheel, Modified Street and Pure Street. For more information on Scenic Raceway, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

White Wins Southern Nationals Event At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2005-07-28) With a heavy heart and a lead foot, Anthony “The Dirty White Boy” White (#2) of Clinton, TN dominated Ray Cook’s Southern Nationals event held last Thursday night at Scenic Raceway. White led flag to flag en route to his first victory of the eight race series, outpacing a field of twenty-four competitors. White dedicated Thursday night’s win to memory of his brother, Tracy, who passed away suddenly last week.

White started his White’s Total Performance/Stone Plus/Mike Ruble Chevy Monte Carlo on the outside pole Thursday night, having qualified his Race Tek powered Chevy with a 16.800 second run [107.14 m.p.h.]. White started alongside Eddie Carrier, Jr. (#28) of Salt Rock, WV, who set the pole pace Thursday night with a super quick 16.370 [109.96 m.p.h.].

While Carrier clearly had the faster car, White had the desire Thursday night, quickly assuming the lead, a position he would never relinquish despite the early efforts of Carrier, who hounded White around the high banks of Scenic Raceway. White mastered the track, holding at bay some of the best drivers in seven states. The action quickly heated up, as on lap two, Kyle Scheer of Bremen, AL (#17) tagged the fence on the exit of the second corner, but never slowed. On lap four, Todd Hunt (#00) of Maryville, TN spun his Pontiac Grand Prix to bring out the night’s first caution. A lap later, Jeff Chambers (#00) of Winfield, TN spun in turn two, resulting in the second yellow rag of the evening. On the restart, Eric Wells (#18) of Hazard, KY spun out in the center of one and two, collecting Tony Morris (#31) of Murfreesboro, TN, Jay Brinkley (#10) of Shelbyville, TN, April Farmer (#14) of Livingston, TN and Scheer. Morris restarted his badly damaged Ford Taurus, but was later forced to pit. He would return to the track, but would have a tough night, finishing twentieth. Farmer, who was en route to her second top ten finish in the Nationals, would later be the caution car, retiring on lap eleven with mechanical trouble possibly caused by the lap five crash. Under the green, White began pulling away from the field. On lap nine, Anthony Chambers (#44) of Helenwood spun in turn two, bringing out the fourth caution of the night. During the caution, Jeff Chambers (#00) limped off the track with a flat tire. A lap later, 16-year-old Jack Daughtry (#6) of Greenville, AL spun in turn three. Lap ten would last forever, taking six attempts to get the race restarted. Throughout every restart, White held off the hard charging Carrier for the lead. Carrier mounted his best challenged for the lead on the final restart, going door to door with White through the second corner and down the backstretch. Carrier made a move for the lead in turn four; however, the pair may have briefly touched each other, as Carrier would cut down a right rear tire. With Carrier gone, White set his sights on victory, holding off Jake Knowles (#66) of Tyrone, GA, Randy Weaver (#116) of Crossville, TN, Joe Arms (#77) of Petros, TN and Michael Chilton (#97) of Salvisa, KY.

Carrier may have been down, but not out of the race. While he restarted the race in eighteenth, Carrier systematically clawed his way back toward the front. On lap thirty-one, Carrier and Steve Smith (#3) of Powell, TN were battling for ninth, when the pair became entangled exiting turn four. The duo remained locked together down the front stretch, until Carrier broke free at the start/finish line. Carrier drove on; Smith was done for the night. Weaver, who had taken advantage of Knowles misfortune on lap twenty-eight, was running a solid second when a mechanical problem ended his night. Weaver would end the night in seventeenth, while Knowles would go home with a sixth place finish. With Weaver out, Chilton assumed the second position, but was quickly relegated to third by Casey Roberts (#101) of Taccoa, GA. The final laps of the Southern Nationals were fast and furious, with drivers jockeying for position around the racetrack. On the final lap, Chilton, who was running third, would shred a tire down the backstretch. Carrier, who had clawed his way to third in just four laps, would bounce off the backstretch wall, but never lift the hammer. White powered across the line, following by Roberts, Carrier, Jeff Cooke (#99) of Spartanburg, SC and Arms.

A post race inspection would determine Arms was underweight, leading to his disqualification and nullifying his top five run. Terrence Nowell (#55) of Phoenix City, AL was scored fifth, followed by Knowles (#66) Chuckie May (#28) of Allen, KY, Brinkley (#10), Chilton (#97) and D.J. Wells (#11) of Wooten, KY rounded out the top ten.

In his post race interview, an emotion White dedicated his Southern Nationals win to his brother, Tracy, who passed away just last week. In his speech, White commented his brother had taught him a lot about racing, including the set up he ran Thursday night. Tracy was a familiar face around the racing circuit, having competed both on and off the track. He will be sadly missed. Scenic Raceway sends out condolences to the White family.

The Southern Nationals was an eight race series promoted by Ray “The Tar Hill Tiger” Cook (#53) of Brasstown, NC. In ten days, over 100 drivers hailing from seven different states competed at eight racetracks in four different states.

It’s Not A Dream—It’s A Nightmare!
Owens Wins BoB Series Feature At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2005-07-22) Dirt track racers always dream of taking the checkered flag, but for twenty-one drivers Friday night at Scenic Raceway—that dream became a Nightmare. Jimmy “The Newport Nightmare” Owens (#20) of Newport, TN became the twelfth driver of the season to win an O’Reilly NARA Battle of the Bluegrass Dirtcar Series sanctioned race. Owens mastered the high-band corners of Scenic Raceway, not only taking the feature victory, but also scoring the fastest lap in qualifying and winning his heat race. Diehard dirt track fans wont have to wait long for the next “big” race at Scenic Raceway, as The Southern Nationals roar into town this Thursday (July 28) night for a 35-lap Super Late Model show.

During time trials, Owens set the pole pace, turning the half-mile in 16.578 seconds [108.58 m.p.h.]. Owens led a field of 29-drivers competing for twenty-two starting positions on the grid. Whitney “Whitrock” McCreary (#5M) was second in qualifying, scoring a 16.815 second lap. England was third (16.910) and Randy Weaver (#116) was fourth (16.933). Shannon Thornsberry (#17) rounded out the top five qualifiers with a 16.979.

Since the BoB series inverted the top four, Owens started the first heat race Friday night in fourth. Owens quickly clawed his way through field, passing Michael “Wild Child” Chilton (#97) on the second lap for third. On the ensuing lap, Owens passed Weaver and set his sights on pole sitter Tim Tungate (#18). Two laps shy of the finish, Owens motored past Tungate for the win. Five drivers transferred from the heat to the feature, including Owens, Tungate, Weaver, Chilton and Benny Feltner.

In the second heat, rookie Wayne Chinn (#1) captured his first race win of the year, outpacing the field. Chinn started the heat on the pole, but couldn’t hold off fellow rookie Chris Combs (#47) who went to the lead on lap four. However, Combs wouldn’t make the distance, breaking down on the backstretch on the final lap and handing the lead back to Chinn. McCreary finished second, while Thornsberry crossed in third. Aaron Hatton (#33) and Mike Jewell (#9) grabbed the final transfer spots.

England led the final six laps of the third heat Friday night, outpacing pole sitter Frankie Coomer (#49). Chuckie May (#28) passed Coomer on the final lap to earn a second place finish. Two-time Scenic Raceway Limited Late Model winner Larry “Showtime” Gray (#D2) of Lexington finished fourth, just behind Coomer. Darrin Hatmaker (#27) of Lafollette took the last transfer spot.

In the last chance race, Chris Combs (#47) overcame his earlier troubles, leading the final four laps and securing a position in Friday night’s feature. Brad Neat (#41), Eric Wells (#18W), Ricky Arms (#4) and Tyrel Todd (#14) were the last cars to make the twenty-two car field.

Owens started Friday night’s BoB series feature on the outside pole, a position earned in a random drawing of the night’s three heat winners [Owens, Chinn and England]. After two bad starts, Owens, who lined up outside England, charged off into the first corner and took the lead. On lap five, Tungate (18) got up out of the groove in the second corner, allowing both Thornsberry and Chilton to slide by. Over the course of the first thirteen laps, Owens mounted a huge lead, outpacing the field and putting cars a lap down. On the thirteenth lap, Owens, while trying to pass 16-year-old Eric Wells (18) briefly made contact with the lap car in turn four. Half a lap later, Wells put his car into the fence in turn two. On the restart, McCreary, who had been riding around in second place, overdrove the second corner, resulting in the loss of three spots. After McCreary’s mistake, Weaver rocketed into second, followed by Thornsberry and Chilton. Over the course of the next twelve laps, Thornsbery and Chilton battled for position; however, on lap 26, Thornsberry ran out of real estate in turn three, backing into the fence and flattening two tires. After the restart, Owens continued to drive away with the race, winning the $3,000 purse. Weaver finished second, while Chilton finished third. McCreary crossed the line fourth, while Tungate rounded out the top five. Finishing in the top ten were: May (#28), England (#5E), Hatton (#33), Chinn (#1) and Combs (#47).

Greg Lucas (#32) in his first show of the year captured the checkered flag in Friday night’s Limited Late Model race. Lucas outpaced the field of fourteen drivers, including pole sitter Larry Gray (#12) of Lexington, KY and outside pole sitter Anthony Chambers (#44) of Helenwood. Chambers appeared to have the strongest car of the night, taking the early lead. However, on lap 9, Chambers ran out of race track in turn two, as he and Lucas fought for position. After making contact with the turn two fence, Chambers continued down the backstretch, but tagged the fence again in turn three, as the earlier impact had ripped the right rear tire off his ride. Lucas dominated the remainder of the race, leading the final eleven en route to his first win. David Pierce (#27) finished second, while Jeff Chambers (#00) finished third. Wesley Coffey (#2) earned a fourth place finish, while Jacob Fienstad (#27) rounded out the top five.

In the Open Wheel Modified class, Don Adams (#90) dominated the field for his second straight win. Merle Jones (#96) finished second, while Thomas Lay (#7) finished third. Mike Watson (#55) and Matthew “The West End Warrior” Hopper (#92) completed the top five.

Allen Crabtree (#21) earned his first Modified Street victory Friday night, outpacing the field. Danny Sumpter (#6) turned up the juice in the feature, finishing second. Lee Riseden (#77) finished third, while Chris “Superman” Seeber (#14) finished fourth. William VanNorstran (#99) rounded out the top five.

Jimmy Smith (#26) won the first race of the season in Scenic Raceway’s new Pure Street division. Smith took the lead on lap three from Chad “War Daddy” Hutson (#64) and never looked back. Three time winner Casey Riseden (#97) finished second, while Hutson wound up third. Johnny “The Fly” Campbell (#77) finished fourth, while John Smith (#1) finished fifth.

Race fans wont have to wait long for the next big race at Scenic Raceway. The Southern Nationals will roar into town on Thursday (July 28) night. The Southern Nationals, eight races at eight different tracks over ten nights in four different states, will showcase a 35-lap Super Late Model feature and a 20-lap UMP Open Wheel Modified race. Gates will open Thursday afternoon at 3 p.m. Racing will get underway at 7 o’clock. General grandstand admission will be $15 for adults, $7 for children 6-11 and children five and under will be admitted free with paying adult. Tier parking will be $20 for adults, $7 for children 6-11. Pit passes will be $30 for all ages. For more information about The Southern Nationals at Scenic Raceway contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Scenic Raceway gearing up for Southern Nationals Series

The Southern Nationals Series will offer drivers the opportunity to compete in eight races at eight different venues over a ten day stretch. The first seven events will pay $3,000 to win, $300 to start, with the finale to pay $5,000 to win, $500 to start. The event at the Scenic Raceway will be the sixth race on the tour. Below is the purse structure for the July 28 event at Oneida:

$3,000 TO WIN PURSE: 1-$3,000 2-$1,500 3-$1,000 4-$800 5-$750 6-$700 7-$650 8-$600 9-$550 10-$500 11-$460 12-$440 13-$420 14-$400 15-$390 16-$380 17-$370 18-$360 19-$350 20-$340 21-$330 22-$320 23-$310 24-$300 --- $15,220 Total

Below are the Southern Nationals Series Rules:
- Southern AllStars Series / Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Body Rules will apply
- Weight Rule: Cars with all Aluminum Motors must weigh 2300 lbs. / Cars with Spec Motors with Steel Heads must weigh 2200 lbs. / Cars with Steel Block Motors with Steel Heads must weigh 2150 lbs.
- One pound per lap burn off
- Tire Rule: Hoosier 1300, 1600, LM40, or any 55 / American Racer 44 or any 56
- Tires will be durometered! If caught doctoring tires, you will be banned from the remaining series events!
- The top twelve qualifiers will be locked into the feature event. The remaining cars will come out of two-four consolation events, depending on the number of cars present.
- 24 cars will start each feature event
- $3,000 to win events will be 35 laps in length
- $5,000 to win event will be 53 laps in length
- Lapped cars will be put to the tail
- No mirrors or radios allowed
- Last and most important rule: HAVE FUN!

The UMP Modifieds will draw for heat race positions, with each heat race being eight laps in length. The UMP Modified feature event will be twenty laps.

Gates will open at the Scenic Raceway at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 28, with hot laps slated for 6:30 p.m. and racing at 7:00 p.m. General admission for the race will be $15.00 each, with kids six to eleven paying $7.00 each. Children age five and under will be admitted free with a paying adult. Pit passes for the $3,000 to win event will be $30.00 each and tiered parking is also available at the track for $20.00 each. The Dirt Late Models will have an $80.00 entry fee and the UMP Modifieds will have a $30.00 entry fee.

The Southern Nationals Series would like to thank the following companies for their support of the newly-formed series: American Race Tire, Barry Wright Race Cars, BRT Racing Products, Hoosier Racing Tire, J.B. Performance, MasterSbilt Race Cars, PPM Racing Products, Race It, and Schaeffer’s Oil.
The Scenic Raceway is located on Hwy 27, 3.3 miles north of downtown Onieda, Tennessee and 7 miles south of the Kentucky line. For more information on the Scenic Raceway, point your web browser to www.scenicraceway.com. For the latest information on the Southern Nationals Series, contact promoter Ray Cook at 828-837-0379 or 706-835-7503.

Race Format Expanded For BoB Series Makeup at Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2005-07-17) While everyone was disappointed by the cancellation of last Saturday night’s much-anticipated O’Reilly NARA Battle of the Bluegrass Dirtcar Series return to Scenic Raceway, good things come to those who wait.

After looking at the race schedule, Scenic Raceway has decided to expand Friday (July 22nd) night’s BoB series makeup program to include all classes, including the track’s new Pure Street division. “With the BoB series rain date being on Friday, the regular race program on Saturday night will be canceled”, remarked track owner Johnny King. “We wanted to show our appreciation to all those drivers that come out every week to race with us, so we’ve decided to include them in the makeup race.”

The expanded race program will include Limited Late Models, UMP Open Wheel Modifieds, Modified Street and Pure Street. All support classes will be running for double points.

Pit gates will open Friday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. Grandstand gates will open at 5:00 o’clock. Racing action will get underway at 7:00 p.m. Grandstand admission is $15 for adults; $7 for children 6-11 and children five and under free. Tier parking is $20 for adults; $7 for children 6-11 and children five and under free. Pit passes are $30 for all ages. Ticket stubs and wristbands from the rained out show on July 16, 2005 will be honored at the gate. Tickets will not be honored at any other Scenic Raceway event.

For more information about Friday night’s O’Reilly NARA Battle of the Bluegrass Dirtcar Series race at Scenic Raceway, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727..

Road Hogs Replaced By Pure Street Class

Oneida, TN (2005-07-16) After much consideration, the Road Hog class at Scenic Raceway has been scraped and will be replaced by a Pure Street division.

Repeated requests for rule changes and low car counts have resulted in the elimination of the Road Hog class, but led to the development of a new division, Pure Street. The Pure Street class rules have been posted.

O’Reilly Battle of the Bluegrass Race Canceled At Scenic Raceway; Set To Run Next Friday

Oneida, TN (2005-07-16) A heavy downpour rained out Saturday night’s O’Reilly NARA Battle of the Bluegrass Dirtcar Series presented by Arizona Sports Shirts.com event at Scenic Raceway.

Just as Saturday night’s event was about to get underway, the skies opened up over Scenic Raceway, leaving a river running through the infield and washing out all hope of racing.

Track owner Johnny King expressed disappointment over the rain out, stating “We were excited about the return of the BoB series to Scenic Raceway. After Friday night’s rain cancellation in Crossville, drivers were eager to take on the ½ mile high bank oval at Scenic.”

A rain date has already been announced for Saturday’s cancellation. The series will return to Scenic Raceway on Friday, July 22nd.

All persons who attended the race Saturday night should retain their ticket stubs and armbands for readmission to the track on Friday. Tickets will only be honored next Friday night.

For more information about Scenic Raceway and the O’Reilly NARA Battle of the Bluegrass call the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Bowlin Returns To Victory Lane At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2005-07-09) After two consecutive DNFs, Rylan Bowlin (#93) of Oneida returned to victory lane Saturday night at Scenic Raceway. Don Adams (#90) of London, KY roared into town Saturday night, dominating the Open Wheel feature. Rookie Dale Nance (#91) of Wartburg earned his second win of the season, while Casey Riseden captured her third checkered flag of the year.

Saturday night’s Limited Late Model feature was the most exciting race of the season at Scenic Raceway, as three time winner Rylan Bowlin (#93) of Oneida spoiled Larry “Showtime” Gray’s (#12) of Lexington, KY hopes of earning his third consecutive win by leading 24 laps of the 25-lap feature. From the drop of the green flag until the checkered flag waved, Bowlin and Gray dueled it out on the clay, pushing each other to the limits of man and machine. Bowlin started his JJ’s Cleaning Service/Uncle Dale’s Trading Post/ American Express Financial Advisors Derek and Kyle Keeton/ Bilstein Shock/ West Haven Speed Equipment/ SouthPaw Racing Chassis powered by Wildman Racing Engine Limited Late Model on outside pole; quickly assuming the lead in the first corner. Bowlin was leading on the second lap, when the race was slowed by the first caution of the night, a yellow brought out by Chris Marcum (#AL44) of Huntsville. Marcum’s trouble off the second corner resulted in a traffic jam that collected several cars, including Wesley Coffey (#2) of Stearns, KY and Kenny Tyra (#88) of Oneida. Coffey received the most damage in the collision, having to be towed from the track. Marcum left the track, but came back under the caution; however, he returned to the pits before action resumed. Tyra received little damage in the wreck. The race was slowed four more time over the next seven laps, including three yellow flags caused by Jacob Fienstad (#27). The other caution flew because of a spin by Ben Sexton (#16) of Lafollette, TN. Under the green, Bowlin and Gray fought for position in every corner, as Gray pulled along side the leader of many occasions. Midway through the feature, Gray pulled along side Bowlin, the pair going door to door around the ½ mile clay oval. On lap 12, Gray finally overtook Bowlin, leading his only lap of the night. On the ensuing lap, Bowlin returned the favor and rocketed back into the lead. Anthony Chambers (#44) of Helenwood, TN, who lead most the second heat race and just missed the outside pole, ran third most of the night, but was forced out of the race by a mechanical problem on lap 21. In the final laps, Gray mounted a charge on the leader, pulling alongside, but was unable to make the pass. In the end, Bowlin crossed the line just feet in front of Gray, earning his fourth win of the season. Ralph Francis (#1) of Hazard, KY finished third, while Hollin Carson (#12) of Oneida finished fourth. David Pierce (#27) of LaFollette, TN rounded out the top five.

Don Adams (#90) of London, KY drove into town Saturday night with high hopes and expectations, when he left, he drove away with the Open Wheel victory—leading every lap of the event. Under the green, Adams was untouchable in his 2005 Lightning Chassis open wheel ride, outpacing a field of fourteen competitors. Saturday night’s Open Wheel feature was slowed five times, including three spins by Thomas Lay (#7) of Winfield. The hardest crash of the night occurred on Lap 13, when Matthew “The West End Warrior” Hopper (#92) of Lancing, TN kicked up the infield dust in the fourth turn, forcing a host of cars to check up. In the mayhem, Danny James (#J4) of Newport, TN got turned into Barry “Saucerhead” Turner (#16) of Somerset, KY, who ultimately impacted Amos “Homegrown” Bunch (#0) of Wartburg, TN. The collision drove Bunch into the outside fence, sending him to the pits. Most of the night, Wayne James (#4) of Newport and Danny Yanders (#33) battled for second position. In the end, James prevailed, crossing the stripe behind Adams. Yanders finished third, while Matthew Langley (#25) of Crossville, TN finished fourth. Hopper was the last car in the top five.

Rookie Dale Nance (#91) of Lancing returned to victory lane Saturday night, taking his second win of the season. Nance started the night on the outside pole, sharing the front row with Chris “Superman” Seeber (#14) of Oliver Springs, TN. Nance led every circuit of the twelve lap event, holding off a field of competitors that included Allen “Big Al” Crabtree (#21) of Pine Knot, KY, William VanNorstran (#99) of Wartburg and Lee Riseden (#77) of Winfield. Crabtree finished the night in second, while VanNorstran finished third. Seeber and Riseden finished fourth and fifth respectively.

Casey Riseden (#97) of Winfield, TN took the checkered flag in the Road Hog feature.

On Saturday, July 16th, the O’Reilly NARA Battle of the Bluegrass Dirtcar Series will roll into Scenic Raceway. The main event will feature a $3,000 to win Super Late Model show, plus a Limited Late Model feature. It will be the first time this season the bad boys in their fast toys have ran at the ½ mile clay oval. The Limited race will be a double points event. Gates will open early for next Saturday’s racing, 2:00 p.m. Racing will begin at 7 o’clock. For more information, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Gray Takes Black And White At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2005-06-25) Larry “Showtime” Gray (#12) of Lexington, KY turned black and white into green Saturday night, capturing the checkered flag in the Limited Late Model event at Scenic Raceway. In his first run of the season, Billy “Hippie” Palmer (#25) of Knoxville, TN outpaced the UMP Open Wheel field; while Benny “The Professor” Duncan (#25) of Petros, TN, who had finished second twice, took his first win. Road Hog racer John Smith (#97) of Winfield, TN drove to victory lane in a borrowed car.

Larry “Showtime” Gray (#12) of Lexington started his Bluegrass Radiator/Quarter Horse Trucking/Mitch’s Auto Repair/Hi Tec Graphix Rayburn Limited Late Model on the pole Saturday night, a spot earned by setting the second quickest time of the night. During time trials, Gray, who rolled out first on the grid, set the pace at 18.723 seconds (96.14 mph). Gray held that advantage until three time winner Rylan “Hoot” Bowling (#93) of Oneida cut a quick lap at 18.607 seconds (96.74 mph). Despite having the quickest car, Bowlin, per track rules, started sixth Saturday night because of his three consecutive wins. Gray led from flag to flag, dominating the field. During the course of a fifteen-lap green run, Gray lapped most of the field, leaving only four cars on the lead lap. With just four to go, Kenny Tyra (#88) of Oneida, who had been running fourth, dropped out, leaving just three. Jeff Adkisson (#1) of Lancing, TN finished second for the second week in a row, hanging with Gray for most of the twenty-five laps. Hollin Carson (#12), despite a pair of early spins, proved perseverance pays, finishing third. Lloyd Singleton (#14) of Oliver Springs, TN finished fourth, while Brian Miller (#27M) rounded out the top five. Saturday night’s race brought an end to Bowlin’s dominance, as he scored his first DNF. A broken throttle linkage ended his night on Lap 13. Oneida driver Bob Thompson (#11) saw his woes continue, exiting the race on Lap 6—the cause, low oil pressure.

The Open Wheel class put on another exciting show Saturday night, as Billy “Hippie” Palmer (#25) of Knoxville won the wreck-ridden feature. Palmer drove from the outside pole position to victory lane, leading every lap of the event. The start of the feature was plagued with problems, as pole sitter Kevin Douglas (#0) of Whitley City, KY spun early, cutting a tire. Thirteen laps later, Douglas’ engine would go sour, resulting in another DNF. A second lap incident took out two contenders, Matthew Langley (#25) of Crossville, TN spun out, collecting Randy Hacker (#88) of Oneida. Thomas Lay (#7) of Winfield, TN, a former Street Class Champion, hit his marks, finishing second. Amos “Homegrown” Bunch (#0) of Wartburg, TN finished third, while Shane Stockton (#96) of Lancing, TN finished fourth. Clifton Dobbs (#74) of Monticello, KY rounded out the top five.

“The Professor” mastered the ½ mile banks of Scenic Raceway Saturday night, holding off last week’s winner Dale Nance (#91) of Lancing, TN for his first win of the season. The Modified event was one of the most exciting races of the night, as Duncan and Nance fought for the lead every lap. Nance, who won last week, pulled alongside Duncan several times, but was never able to make the pass. Ted Lowe (#30) of Oliver Springs, TN, in his first outing at Scenic Raceway, finished third, while William VanNorstran (#99) of Wartburg finished fourth. Doug Owens (#00) of Lancing finished fifth.

John Smith of Winfield, who was driving the #97 for Casey Riseden, went to victory lane Saturday night. Smith dominated the field, holding off 2004 Track Champion Scott “Dirty Red” Ward (#7) for the win. Johnny “The Fly” Campbell (#77) finished third, while Brandon Morgan (#M34) finished fourth. Chad “War Daddy” Hutson (#64) rounded out the top five.

Scenic Raceway will have two big events in July. On Saturday, July 16th, the O’Reilly NARA Battle of the Bluegrass series returns to Scenic for a $3,000 to win Super Late Model event. The track will also be running all other classes that evening, having a double points event for Limited Late Models, Open Wheel, Modified Street and Road Hog. On Thursday, July 28th, the Southern National series will run at Scenic, featuring a Super Late Model race paying $3,000 to win.

Scenic Raceway features four classes of racing every Saturday night: Limited Late Model, Modified Street, Open Wheel and Road Hog. For more information on Scenic Raceway, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Bowlin Three-Peat Winner At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2005-06-18) After racing action Saturday night at Scenic Raceway, Oneida Limited Late Model driver Rylan “Hoot” Bowlin (#93) has a new nickname, Three-Peat. Shane Stockton (#96) of Monticello, KY pulled his UMP Open Wheel Modified into victory lane Saturday night, his first of the season. Dale Nance (#91) of Wartburg, TN was also a first time winner, capturing the checkered flag in the Modified Street race. Casey Riseden (#97) of Winfield made it two in a row, repeating last week’s performance in the Road Hog class.

Bowlin again outpaced the field in his JJ’s Cleaning Service/Uncle Dale’s Trading Post/American Express Financial Advisors Derek and Kyle Keeton/Bilstein Shock/West Haven Speed Equipment/SouthPaw Racing Chassis powered by Wildman Racing Engines Limited Late Model, leading every lap of the twenty-five-lap feature from the pole position. Bowlin’s win wasn’t easy though, as fellow drivers Hollin Carson (#12) of Oneida, TN and Jeff Adkisson (#1) of Oliver Springs pressured Bowlin on several occasions. Carson, who had his best performance of the season, proved early he was a contender, quickly clawing his way from fourth to second in the first half mile. Over the next ten circuits, Carson mounted several attacks on Bowlin, going door-to-door with the leader a couple of time in turn four. However, Carson’s dominance in the fourth turn would eventually be his undoing, as on lap twelve Carson’s car turned violently to the right and ran headlong into the outside fence at the exit of the corner. Carson was uninjured in the single car wreck, but the impact broke the rear-end housing on his ride. Following Carson’s wreck, Jeff Adkisson, who had stared the night on the outside pole, attempted to size up Bowlin on several occasions. On a pair of restarts, Adkisson stayed with the leader, but Bowlin proved too strong under the green, as he drove away to victory. Adkisson finished second, while David Pierce (#27) of Jacksboro, TN finished third. Gary Lively (#30) of Petros, TN, in his first show of the season, finished fourth, while Bryan Patty (#B15) of Jacksboro rounded out the top five.

The Open Wheel boys lived up to their reputation on Saturday, putting on an exciting show for the fans. After a couple weeks of disappointment, Shane Stockton (#96) of Monticello, KY drove his Johnny Lowe Construction/Tri-State Appraisals/ ComTech/ Cumberland Telcom Ford into victory lane Saturday night. While Stockton led from flag to flag from the pole position, last week’s winner and outside pole sitter Matthew “The West End Warrior” Hopper (#92) of Lancing, TN challenged Stockton for the lead early in the race. Kevin Douglas (#0) of Whitley City, KY drove the hardest Saturday night finishing third despite spinning out on the second lap, an incident that brought out the first caution of the night. In his first outing of the season at Scenic Raceway, Matthew Langley (#25) of Crossville, TN quickly learned the best way around the clay oval, earning a fourth place finish. Amos “Homegrown” Bunch (#0) of Wartburg rounded out the top five.

After last week’s rule changes, the Modified Street class continued to improve Saturday night. Dale Nance (#91) of Wartburg drove his Mechanics Plus Pontiac Grand Prix into victory lane, outpacing a field of drivers including Benny “The Professor” Duncan (#25) of Petros, TN, last week’s winner William VanNorstran (#99) of Wartburg, Thomas Byrd (#21) of Winfield and Brian “Double Pump” Hooks (#B3) of Oliver Springs. After two cautions on the start, Hooks, the pole sitter, took the early lead; however, his lead was short lived, as Nance would pass Hooks on the third lap. A lap later, a mechanical problem put Hooks in the infield. After the restart, Duncan set his sights on first place, going door-to-door with Nance on several occasions. In the end Nance proved to be the best car, taking the win. Duncan finished second, while VanNorstan earned a third place finish. Byrd finished fourth, while Hooks took home a fifth place finish.

Casey Riseden (#97) of Winfield repeated last week’s performance in her Kenny’s Rowboat Chevy Chevelle, taking the victory in the Road Hog class. Riseden, who started on the outside pole, led all ten laps of the feature after overtaking pole sitter Randall “Pickle” Strunk (#44) of Winfield in the first corner. Strunk, in his first show of his sophomore season, finished a solid second. Steven “Infield Bandit” Potter (#90) of Wartburg finished a distant third, while Johnny “The Fly” Campbell (#77) of LaFollette, TN finished fourth. Scott “Scooby” Morgan (#M97) of Elgin, TN finished fifth.

The Super Late Models return to Scenic Raceway on Saturday, July 16th, as the O’Reilly NARA Battle of the Bluegrass Dirt Car Series returns to Scenic Raceway for a $3,000 to win event.

Scenic Raceway features four classes of racing every Saturday night: Limited Late Model, Modified Street, Open Wheel and Road Hog. For more information on Scenic Raceway, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Bowlin Earns Second Win At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2005-06-11) Scenic Raceway cheated Mother Nature Saturday night, finishing its race program just as a light shower blanketed the area. Dark, ominous clouds from the remnants of Tropical Storm Arlene loomed over Scenic Raceway all night, but the rains held off until the final feature of the night, resulting in track officials wrapping up the Road Hog race a few laps early.

In racing action Saturday night, Rylan “Hoot” Bowlin (#93) of Oneida, TN earned his second Limited Late Model win of the season at Scenic Raceway, a position he earned after protesting race winner John “The Preacher Man” Vespie (#1611) of Wartburg, TN. Matthew “The West End Warrior” Hopper (#92) of Lancing, TN won the Open Wheel class, while William VanNorstran (#99) of Wartburg, TN was the last man standing in the Modified Street division. Rookie Terry “T-Bone” Smith (#15) of Briceville, TN took the checkered flag in the Mini-Stock race, while Winfield driver Casey Riseden (#97) earned her first win of the year in the Road Hog class.

Bowlin started his JJ’s Cleaning Service/Uncle Dale’s Trading Post/American Express Financial Advisors Derek and Kyle Keeton/ Bilstein Shock/ West Haven Speed Equipment Southpaw Racing Chassis powered by Wildman Racing Engine Limited Late Model on the pole Saturday night, quickly taking the lead in turn one; a position he held until the fourth circuit. After clearing outside pole sitter Kenny Tyra (#88) of Oneida, Vespie took the lead from Bowlin on lap four. The pair continued to mix it up, swapping the position twice four laps later, as Bowlin, who was stronger in the second turn took Vespie in the corner, only to lose the spot back to him in turn four. Bowlin mounted another charge for the lead, taking it back on lap sixteen; however, a caution flag spawn by Oneida driver Chris Claborn (#85) negating Bowlin’s advantage, putting him back in second for the restart. When the race resumed, Vespie never looked back, driving to the checkered flag. Following the event, Bowlin challenged Vespie, a protest that proved Vespie was running aluminum heads, which are illegal this season at Scenic Raceway. Bowlin was awarded the win. David Pierce (#27) of Lafollette, TN, who started the night in eighth, quietly earned a second place finish. Wesley Coffey (#2) of Stearns, KY finished third. Claborn rallied for a fourth place finish, while Brian Miller of Caryville, TN rounded out the top five.

Bob Thompson (#11) of Oneida earned the headache award Saturday night, crashing into the front stretch wall during heat racing. Thompson and Tyra, who had been battling hard for the lead, made contact near the start/finish line, resulting in Thompson getting turn into the wall. Thompson was unscathed in the may lay, but his car received extensive damage. Tyra went on to win the heat, but cut a tire in the feature.

Hopper (#92) drove his Pontiac Grand Prix from the outside pole to victory lane Saturday, holding off a field of super quick competitors. Kevin Douglas (#0) of Whitley City, KY was the early contender, assuming the lead on the first lap. Douglas dominated the first six laps before dropping a drive shaft. On the ensuing restart, Wayne Jones (4) of Newport, TN assumed the lead. Hopper and Jones fought door-to-door for the top spot, with Hopper winning the battle on lap eight. For the last dozen laps, Hopper and Jones put on a real show for the fans, mixing it up in every corner. On the final turn, Hopper was driving so hard his ride broke loose. He chased both ends down the straight, sliding across the start/finish line to take the checkered flag.

VanNorstran (#99) was the last man standing the Modified Street class, as a mid race accident took out the rest of the field. After mechanical trouble took out and pole sitter Dale Nance (#91) of Wartburg and Brian “Double Pump” Hooks (#B3) of Oliver Springs early, VanNorstran’s Mechanics Plus Chevy was being challenged by Crawford Stephens (#7) and Benny “The Professor” Duncan (#25) of Petros, TN. On lap seven, Stephens, who was running second, and Duncan made contact in the fourth turn, resulting in Stephens driving headlong into the front stretch fence. Stephens slid back across the speedway, while Duncan, who sustained major rear end damage, shot down the front stretch, ending up in the muddy infield. Duncan was scored second, while Stephens earned a third place finish.

Rain began to fall just as the Road Hog class was being introduced Saturday night. Riseden (#97), who started the race on the pole, dominated the field. In the rain-shortened race, Riseden led every lap. Steven “Infield Bandit” Potter (#90) of Wartburg crossed the line second. Scott “Scooby” Morgan (M97) of Elgin, TN finished third, while Johnny “Fly” Campbell (#77) of Lafollette, TN earned a fourth place finish. Rookie Brandon Morgan (M34) of Robbins, TN rounded out the top five.

Since opening on June 4th, Scenic Raceway has made many changes to the facility. The most notable is the removal of the dirt from the infield area that has improved visibility in the corners for both drivers and fans. The track surface has also been cut away from the wall in all corners, leaving even seasoned Scenic drivers searching for a new line around the ½ clay oval.

Scenic Raceway features five classes of racing every Saturday night: Limited Late Model, Modified Street, Open Wheel, Mini Stock and Road Hog. For more information on Scenic Raceway, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Racing A “Hoot” At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2005-06-04) The first race of the 2005 season at Scenic Raceway was a hoot, as race fans witnessed Rylan “Hoot” Bowling (#93) of Oneida, TN captured the Limited Late Model checkered flag Saturday night. The UMP Open Wheel class returned to Scenic Raceway, as Amos “Homegrown” Bunch (#0) of Wartburg, TN took the victory. Ricky “Possom” Hooks (#H1) of Clinton, TN returned to victory lane in the Road Hog class, while Brian “Double Pump” Hooks (#B3) of Oliver Springs earned the best finish in the new Modified Street division. Jeff “Stroker Ace” Smith (#4) of Caryville, TN was the best car in the Mini Stock field.

Starting on the outside pole, Bowling quickly slid his JJ’s Cleaning Service, Uncle Dale’s Trading Post, American Express Financial Advisors Derek and Kyle Keeton Bilstein Shock, West Haven Speed Equipment Southpaw Racing Chassis powered by Wildman Racing Engine Limited Late Model into second place behind pole sitter Jeff Chambers (#00) of Winfield, TN. Bowling followed Chambers around the ½ mile clay oval for the first nine circuits, taunting the leader. On a couple occasions, Bowling flexed his prowess, especially through the second corner, but was unable to seal the deal down the straight. Bowling powered around Chambers on the tenth trip around the track, taking first place, a position he would never relinquish. Last year’s Sportsman class Champion Bob Thompson (#11) challenged Chambers for second on several occasions, but was never able to complete the pass. Thompson finished third behind Chambers. Hollin Carson (#12) of Oneida quietly climbed through the field, earning a fourth place finish from his eighth place start. Kenny Tyra (#88) of Oneida rounded out the top five.

After a three-year hiatus, the Open Wheel Modified class returned to Scenic Raceway Saturday night. Amos “Homegrown” Bunch (#0) of Wartburg led from flag to flag, claiming the win in his Briggs Trucking, Wilson Machine Shop, family and friends Fastlane. Bunch started the feature on the outside pole, taking the high groove to the front of the field. Matthew “The West End Warrior” Hopper (#92) of Lancing, TN brought his ride home second, while Kevin Douglas (#0) of Whitley City, KY clawed his way from the rear of the field to third place, a position he held despite tagging the fourth corner fence on the final lap. Pole sitter Merle Jones (#33) of Stearns, KY finished fourth, while Randy Hacker (#88) of Oneida rounded out the top five.

Despite getting a late start in the season, Scenic Raceway is planning several exciting race weekends, including sanctioned Super Late Model events. As soon as the 2005 schedule is finalized, it will be posted on the track’s website.

Scenic Raceway features five classes of racing every Saturday night: Limited Late Model, Modified Street, Open Wheel, Mini Stock and Road Hog. For more information on Scenic Raceway, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Adkisson Captures Limited Victory In Scenic Raceway Season Finale

Oneida, TN (2004-10-02) Jeff Adkisson (1) of Petros, TN captured the checkered flag Saturday night in the Limited Late Model season finale at Scenic Raceway. Thomas Lay (7) of Winfield, TN, the 2004 Street Stock Champion, continued his winning way, taking the Street feature. Jamie Miller (10) of Lake City, TN, the 2004 Champion, continued his dominance in the Mini Stock class, earning another victory. John Smith (19) of Winfield, TN extended his winning streak, winning the Road Hog feature. Kim Tucker (97) won Saturday night’s Powder Puff event.

Saturday night wasn’t an ordinary night of racing at Scenic Raceway, as the track held a special “Run What Ya Brung” event. Drivers, car owners and mechanics were given free reign to make modifications that normally would be considered illegal. While some made cosmetic changes including huge wings, others made mechanical modifications, all hoping to gain speed.

In the Limited Late Model class, Rylan Bowling of Oneida showed up with the most visible modification, a huge plexiglass wing that extended the entire length of the car. Bowling was driving the car owned by Doug and Jennie Keeton and Heath Terry, the #14 normally driven by Ron Jones of Robbins, TN. The modification to Bowling’s ride proved worthy, as Bowling ran a blistering 17.181 lap in qualifying, an amazing 104.77 m.p.h. Bowling started Saturday night’s feature on the poll, but was quickly relegated to second by Jeff Adkisson (1) of Petros, TN, who started on the outside pole. Bowling and Adkisson battle for the lead for the first four laps, but as Bowling challenged for the top spot in turn one, he lost the handle on his modified machine and spun out. Bowling restarted the race ninth, but systematically clawed his way back toward the front. In the closing laps, Bowling battled with 2004 Late Model Points Champion Tim Damron (23), also of Oneida for second place, but couldn’t get around him. Adkisson led flag to flag to capture the win, while Damron and Bowling finished second and third respectively. Brad Adkisson (A1), also of Petros, finished fourth, while Winfield, TN driver Jeff Chambers (00) finished fifth.

In the Street feature, Thomas Lay (7) of Winfield, TN drove from the outside poll to victory lane Saturday night. Lay led every lap of the fifteen lap feature, holding off a field of competitors that included Allen Holt (24) of New Tazewell, TN and David West (33) of Oneida, TN. Holt, who had won the last two events, finished second, while West finished third. Crawford Stephens (21) of Winfield finished fourth, while Rookie of the Year Brian “Double Pump” Hooks (B3) of Oliver Springs, TN rounded out the top five.

Jamie Miller (10) of Lake City, TN continued his winning way Saturday night, taking the checkered flag in the Mini-Stock race. Miller led the field for the entire distance, holding off Bryan Patty (22) of Jacksboro, TN and Roy Smith (2) for the win. Patty and Smith finished second and third respectively, while Larry Mozingo (43) of Lafollette, TN in his first show of the year, finished fourth. J.R. King (96) of Winfield finished fifth.

John Smith (19) of Winfield, TN continued his late season spree, holding off ten other competitors for the win. Smith started the race on the outside poll, but quickly drove to the front, outpacing Allen Hackworth, Jr. (33) of Richmond, KY in his first show of the year. Hackworth held onto second spot, despite having a warped or lose right front wheel. Lee Riseden of Winfield, TN, driving the #44 of Randall Strunk, finished third, while Casey Riseden (97), also of Winfield, ended the night in fourth. Michael Duncan (14) of Oneida was the last car in the top five.

The year at Scenic Raceway ended Saturday night with the season’s only Powder Puff race. The competitors and race fans alike enjoyed the eighth-lap dash, as Kim Tucker (97), driving Casey Riseden’s car, drove a tough race to capture the win. Due to early attrition, Tucker, who was set to start ninth, actually rolled off third Saturday night on the grid. Kristie Hooks (B3) of Oliver Springs started the race on the pole, leading the first three laps. The race was red flag on the first lap, when Mindy Cecil (24) and Hannah Stumbo (71) simultaneously spun in opposite directions on the exit of the fourth corner. While both drivers initially avoided contact, Stumbo collided with Kerri Couch (01) as she attempted to bring her car back around on the speedway. On lap four, Hooks lost the handle in the fourth corner, ending up in the drainage ditch in the infield, losing the lead and finished sixth. After the caution, Tucker battled Dominique West (33) for the lead. Tucker pulled away down the stretch, taking the checkered flag. West finished second, while Regina Smith (19) finished third. Trina Strunk (44) and Cecil (24) finished fourth and fifth respectively.

As the checkered flag falls on another season, track owners Johnny and Dorothy King expressed their appreciation to all the drivers, owners, mechanics, pit crewmembers and fans who satisfied their passion for racing at Scenic Raceway in 2004. During the off-season, track officials will reevaluate track rules and make the 2005 schedule. Until next year, be safe, stay warm…and keep turning left!

Damron Crowned 2004 Late Model Champion at Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2004-09-25) Tim Damron (23) of Oneida, TN was crowned the 2004 Late Model Champion Saturday night at Scenic Raceway. Bob Thompson (11), also of Oneida, finished the season on top of the leader board in the Sportsman class. Thomas Lay (7) of Winfield, TN earned the Street Championship. Jamie Miller (10) of Lake City, TN drove away with the Mini-Stock Championship, while Scott “Dirty Red” Ward (7), also of Lake City, won the Championship trophy in the Road Hog class.

While some of the 2004 Champions had sealed their chances prior to Saturday night’s race, Tim Damron (23) had to finish eighth or better to guarantee his Championship. Going into Saturday night’s event, Damron held a narrow 32-point lead over Darrin Hatmaker (27) of Lafollette, TN. The battle was intensified because Damron, who also runs a Limited car at other tracks, had blown up his primary engine in his Super Late Model. Running a limited motor in Saturday night feature, Damron finished a respectable fourth in the main event. Hatmaker finished second behind Scott “Gold Digger” Randolph (37) of Baxter, TN. At the end of the night, Damron [652], who had two wins in 2004, had a 25-point advantage over Hatmaker [627] for the Championship. Darrin’s brother Durand Hatmaker (28), also of Lafollette, finished third [390] in the chase. Randolph on the strength of two wins, including one double points event, finished fourth [332]. Johnny Lane (H1) of Clinton, TN finished fifth [251].

Bob Thompson (11) drove to a third place finish Saturday night in the Sportsman feature, solidifying his points lead and clinching the 2004 Championship, amassing 704 points. During the season, Thompson had just one win, but consistency propelled him to the top of the leader board. Throughout the chase, Thompson finished in the top five, twelve times including a pair of second place runs and three, third place finishes. Ron Jones (14) of Robbins, TN finished just 30 points out of the lead in second [674]. George Byrge (G2) of Clinton, TN, who won Saturday night’s feature, was third [647] in the chase, while Jeff Chambers (00) of Winfield, TN finished fourth [550]. Chris Claborn (85) of Oneida rounded out the top five [416]. Clyde Daugherty (07W) earned Rookie of the Year honors.

Thomas Lay (7) had an uncharacteristic night Saturday night, overheating and retiring early. Backed by nine wins in 2004, Lay had already clinched the Championship, amassing 823 points. Brian Bunch (35) of Robbins, TN finished second [707] in the chase, while Brian Hooks (B3) of Oliver Springs, TN finished third [557]. David West (33) of Oneida, who was involved in an on-track accident halfway through Saturday night’s feature, finished fourth [555], just two points behind Hooks. Jim Baird (38) of Huntsville, TN earned a top five [235]. In addition to a third place finish in the chase, Hooks also earned Rookie of the Year honors. Allen Holt (24) of New Tazewell, TN in his second show the season won Saturday night’s feature.

Jamie Miller (10) again proved why he is a Champion; earning his tenth points win of the season Saturday night. Miller dominated the class in 2004, amassing a total of 856 championship points. Charles Miller (31) of Jacksboro, TN gain a position in the points chase Saturday night, as Ernie Collette (13) of Lafollette, TN cut a tire on the second lap of the feature, and handed second [641] place to him. Collette finished third [635], just six points behind Miller. Troy Harmon (15) of Lake City, TN received two honors Saturday night, finishing fourth [560] in the points chase and earning Rookie of the Year honors. Tim Miller (II) of Knoxville, TN finished fifth [499].

In the Road Hog class, Scott “Dirty Red” Ward (7) clinched the Championship with a second place finish Saturday night. Ward earned six points wins in 2004, along with three, second place runs to take the Championship. Tim Loggins (2) of Robbins, TN finished second in the chase. Ricky “Possum” Hooks (H1) of Oliver Springs, TN earned dual honors Saturday night, third in the points chase and Rookie of the Year. Scott “Scooby” Morgan (M97) finished fourth [481]. Casey Riseden (97) of Winfield, TN rounded out the top five [461].

The last race of the 2004 season will be held Saturday, October 2nd. The final event will feature no rules, just racing. “Run What You Brung” will allow competitors to satisfy their need for speed, allowing modifications that normally would be illegal. Saturday night’s program will begin early. Gates will open at 3:30 p.m. A driver’s meeting to discuss the 2005 rules will be held at 5 o’clock. Hot laps will begin at 6:00 p.m. For more information, call the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Races Canceled At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2004-09-17) While meteorologists promise weather will improve over the weekend, Tropical Depression Ivan had forced the cancellation of the race program at Scenic Raceway. Racing will resume next week.

“While skies are expected to clear Saturday afternoon, the torrential rains from Ivan inundated the facility on Thursday and Friday, leaving us no choice but to cancel Saturday’s race program,” commented track owner Johnny King. After a rainy summer, Scenic Raceway had hoped for a drier fall, but a tropical weather pattern has dampened race spirits again.

Racing is scheduled to resume next Saturday, September 25th.

Scenic Raceway features five classes of racing every Saturday night: Late Model, Sportsman, Street Stock, Mini Stock and Road Hog. For more information on Scenic Raceway, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Randolph Strikes Gold At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2004-09-04) Scott “Golddigger” Randolph (37) of Baxter, TN struck gold in the clay at Scenic Raceway Saturday night, running away from the field and taking home the win in the Late Model class. Bill Rose (6) of Oliver Springs, TN extended his winning streak, earning his second win in the Sportsman division. Thomas Lay (7), of Winfield scored another victory in the Street class, while Jamie Miller (10), of Lake City, TN took another win. Scott “Dirty Red” Ward (7) of Lake City, TN added another win on his 2004 resume, taking the checkered flag in the Road Hog race.

Randolph was on top of his game Saturday night, leading every lap of the main feature. After starting on the outside pole, Randolph quickly assumed the lead, out driving pole sitter Darrin Hatmaker (27) of Lafollette, TN in the first corner. While Randolph checked out on the field, Hatmaker and Anthony “The Dirty White Boy” White (2) of Clinton, TN fought hard for second place. The pair battled for the first ten laps for position, but White, on lap 11, spun out on the exit of turn one bringing out the first caution of the night, dropping him to tenth. On the restart, Hatmaker went for the lead, making a cross over move on Randolph in turn four that almost gave him advantage. However, as the pair entered the first corner, Hatmaker lost the handle and spun out. Except for a caution for debris on lap 18, the race went green for the rest of the way.
After White and Hatmaker’s troubles, Tim Damron (23) of Oneida, TN assumed the second spot, but was unable to get past Randolph’s Hunter and Son’s Communications, Gann’s Race Cars, Smithville Pawn and Loan, Performance Race Engines Monte Carlo. Damron finished second, while White clawed his way back to a third place finish. Tommy Devaney (20) of Oliver Springs, TN finished fourth, while Johnny Lane (H1) of Clinton, TN finished fifth—his best of the season. White was the fastest qualifier of the night, putting his Stone Plus, White’s Total Performance, Freddy White Masonry, Clinton Muffler GRT Monte Carlo on top of the leader board with a 17.094 (105.3mph).

Bill Rose (6) of Oliver Springs, TN bloomed again Saturday night, taking home his second win of the season. One week after taking his first win of the season, Rose again rose to the occasion, dominating the Sportsman field by putting his David Phillips Construction Monte Carlo on top of the leader board in qualifying, winning his heat and the feature. After having trouble in qualifying Jeff Chambers (00) of Winfield, TN started seventh Saturday night, but fought his way to third by lap 9. For the next four laps, Chambers and Bob Thompson (11) of Oneida, TN fought for position, challenging each other in every corner and down both straights. The battle ended when the pair got together in turn two, allowing George Byrge (G2) of Lake City, TN and Chris Claborn (85) of Oneida, TN to get past. Byrge finished second, while Claborn earned a third place finish. Thompson and Chambers finished fourth and fifth respectively.

Thomas Lay (7) of Winfield dominated the Street field again, leading every lap of the feature race from the pole position. Allen Holt (24) of New Tazewell, TN, in his first show of the year, finished second, while David West (33) of Oneida, finished third. Brian “Double Pump” Hooks (B3) of Oliver Springs, TN finished fourth, while Brian Bunch (35) of Robbins, TN ended the night in fifth.

In the Mini-Stock field, Jamie Miller (10), of Lake City, TN showed his dominance again, leading every lap, outpacing the entire field for the win in his Jim’s Quick Lube, Disney Cabinets Ford. Tim Miller (II) of Knoxville, TN, fresh off his first-ever win last week, finished second. Charles Miller (31) of Jacksboro, TN finished third, while Ernie Collette (13) of Lafollette, TN finished fourth. Rounding out the top five was Jeff Smith (4) of Caryville, TN.

The wildest race of the night was the Road Hog feature, which was red flagged for a horrific wreck on lap 4. As the field came down the front stretch, Scott “Scooby” Morgan (M97) of Elgin, TN got turned and crossed into the patch of Anthony “Keebler” Terry (24) of Oneida, TN. Terry’s car went airborne, rolling over and landing on its top. After some tense moments, Terry was pulled from the wreckage, reportedly unharmed but shaken. Chad “War Daddy” Hutson (64) of Huntsville was also involved in the wreck, which ended the night for all three competitors. When the race resumed, Scott Ward (7) of Lake City, TN continued to show his strength, piloting his Crossland Homes of Knoxville, White Total Performance, Budget Transmission of Knoxville, East Tennessee Concrete Pumping, B.K. Motorsports of Solway, Custom T’s Vinyl Signs of Lake City Monte Carlo to victory lane. While a dozen cars started Saturday night feature, only four finished the race. Ricky “Possum” Hooks (H1) of Clinton, TN has his best finish of the season, second. Michael Shumaker (8) of Lake City, TN, in his first show of 2004, finished third, while Johnny “The Fly” Campbell (77) of Lafollette, TN finished fourth. Casey Riseden (97) of Winfield, TN, who retired five laps early, finished fifth.

Next week, (Saturday, September 11th) Scenic Raceway will be closed for the World 100. The next race at Scenic Raceway will be held on Saturday, September 18th. Fan Appreciation and Championship night is slated for Saturday, September 25th. Originally scheduled for June, Scenic Raceway will host its rain canceled “Run What You Brung” event on Saturday, October 2nd (weather permitting).

Scenic Raceway features five classes of racing every Saturday night: Late Model, Sportsman, Street Stock, Mini Stock and Road Hog. For more information on Scenic Raceway, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Rose Rises To The Top; Duncan, Miller and Smith Take First Wins At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2004-08-28) Bill Rose (6) of Oliver Springs, TN rose to the occasion Saturday night, piloting his Chevy Monte Carlo into victory lane in the Sportsman class at Scenic Raceway. 69-year old Benny Duncan of Petros, TN took his first Street feature win of the season, while Tim Miller (II) of Knoxville, TN captured his first checkered flag. In another first, John Smith (19) of Winfield, TN earned his first victory in the Road Hog class.

Saturday night’s Sportsman feature got off to wild and wooly start, as Allen “Big Al” Crabtree (1) of Pine Knot, KY collided with the turn three wall, collecting two other competitors. As Crabtree’s car came away from the wall, he collided with Wayne “Chigger” Reed (55) of Helenwood, TN, who was making his first-ever start in the Sportsman class. As a result, Ben Sexton (16) of Lafollette, TN drove across the rear deck lid of Reed’s ride, causing extensive damage to his car. All drivers walked away from the wreck. The race was red flagged for more than 20-minutes while track crews cleaned up the mess.

Once racing resumed, Rose continued to show his determination and domination, taking the lead in the first corner and never looking back. Jeff Chambers (00) of Winfield, TN pulled along side Rose several times throughout the night, but could never make the pass. After the “big” wreck, Saturday night’s feature was slowed only twice more by caution. On Lap 3, George Byrge (G2) of Lake City, TN brought out the yellow rag, as a mechanical problem ended his night. Three laps later, the yellow waved again over the track, as David Stooksbury (4M) spun out down the backstretch. Chambers finished second, while Ron Jones (14) of Robbins, TN finished third. Bob Thompson (11) of Oneida, TN finished fourth, while Chris Claborn (85) also from Oneida, rounded out the top five.

Following the feature, Chambers protested Rose, claiming an illegal transmission. After a post race inspection, Rose was deemed legal and his victory was validated.

Scenic Raceway crowned another first-time winner in the Street class Saturday night, as 69-year-old Benny Duncan (25) of Petros out drove the young guns en route to his first win. Duncan and Thomas Lay (7) of Winfield, TN battled for the top spot most of the night, swapping the position twice. On lap five, Lay drove under Duncan in Turn two, leaning on the elder Duncan and charged into the lead. A lap later, Duncan returned the favor, retaking the lead. Lay finished second, followed by Brian Bunch (35) of Robbins, TN. Riley Phillips, Jr. (H5) of Clinton, TN finished fourth. Brian “Double Pump” Hooks (B3) rounded out the top five.

Tim Miller (II) of Knoxville, TN earned his first win of the year in the Mini-Stock class. Miller started fourth Saturday night, but quickly assumed the second position. Miller challenged Aaron “Ernie” Collette (13) of Lafollette, TN for the eight circuits before passing him in the third corner of the final lap. Collette finished second, while Jamie Miller (10) of Lake City, TN cross the line third. Tom Vann (XXX) of Wartburg, TN finished fourth.

In another dominating performance, John (J.C.) Smith (19) of Winfield, TN drove away with his first victory Saturday night, leading every lap of a bizarre Road Hog race. Smith started the feature from the outside pole and quickly assumed the lead. Smith held off Scott “Dirty Red” Ward (7) of Lake City, TN for the win. Tim Loggins (2) of Robbins, TN finished third, while Casey Riseden (97) finished fourth. Anthony “Keebler” Terry (24) of Oneida earned a top five finish.

Labor Day weekend, Scenic Raceway will be the site of the first-ever Bleacher Bash, showing appreciation to the fans by reducing general grandstand admission to $8 for adults. Children 10 and under will be free. On the track, drivers will compete in all classes: Late Model, Sportsman, Street, Mini-Stock and Road Hog. Next Saturday night will be a double points event.

Scenic Raceway features five classes of racing every Saturday night: Late Model, Sportsman, Street Stock, Mini Stock and Road Hog. For more information on Scenic Raceway, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Battle of the Blue and Grey Saturday Night At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2004-08-19) It will be the North versus the South (or the East), during the first every Battle of the Blue and Grey this Saturday night at Scenic Raceway. This exciting night of racing will feature a 50-lap Late Model show paying $5000 to win and a Mini-Stock race paying $500 to win. Plus, you’ll witness racing in all other classes too, including Sportsman, Street and Road Hog.

The Battle of the Blue and Grey will be the third big event of the season at Scenic Raceway, East Tennessee’s premiere ½ mile clay oval. The line has been drawn and best drivers from Tennessee, Kentucky and the Carolinas are expected to compete in the night’s main event, the Mason Dixon 50. Last month, Border Wars 2004 produced a field of 34-competitors in the Late Model show, the biggest showing of the season. Mike Marlar (157) of Winfield, TN took home the prize money, also having won the first big event of the season, the Dirt Daddy 50. Rumors has it Marlar may not make the Battle of the Blue and Grey, meaning a first time winner will be crowned Saturday night.

In the Mini-Stock feature, drivers will be running 15-laps, competing for a $500 winning purse.

The Battle of the Blue and Grey will also feature racing in Scenic Raceway’s other classes: Sportsman, Street and Road Hog.

In addition to the racing action, Looney Ballooney and Friends, a clown act will entertain the crowd prior to the race. His show will start at 6:00 p.m.

Gates will open Saturday afternoon at 3:30 p.m. Racing will begin at 7:00 p.m. General grandstand admission for the Battle of the Blue and Grey will be $15 for adults, $10 for children 6-10 and children 5 and under free. Tier parking $20. Pit Passes, $30. Late Model competitors will be charged a $125 entry fee. Mini-Stock competitors will be assessed a $30 entry fee.

Scenic Raceway features five classes of racing every Saturday night: Late Model, Sportsman, Street Stock, Mini Stock and Road Hog. For more information on Scenic Raceway, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Hatmaker Takes First-Ever Win At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2004-08-14) It was a night of firsts Saturday at Scenic Raceway, as the track crowned three first-time winners. Durand Hatmaker (28) of Lafollette, TN earned his first-ever win on the prestigious ½ clay oval, out-driving his brother for the victory. Troy Harmon of Lake City, TN outpaced the Mini-Stock field to capture his first checkered flag, while Casey Riseden (97) of Winfield, TN came from last to first to earn her first victory in the Road Hog class. Scenic Raceway’s next big event will be held next weekend, as drivers from at least three states are expected to compete in the Battle of the Blue and Grey.

Durand Hatmaker (28) started the night fourth of the grid, having been out-driven by his brother Darrin (27) in the second heat for the outside pole. Tim Damron (23) of Oneida, TN, who came into the night leading the points chase, started on the pole. From his outside pole position, Darrin Hatmaker quickly assumed the lead, while Durand Hatmaker moved into second. Damron faded early, slipping back to fourth. Johnny Wheeler (3) of Campbellsville, KY, who started sixth, climbed to third in the early laps. The Hatmaker brother put on an exciting show, constantly challenging each other in every corner. On Lap 13, Darrin Hatmaker went wide in turn four, while Durand drove low and passed his brother for the lead. While he remained in contact, Darrin was unable to retake the lead. Durand Hatmaker, who hadn’t raced at Scenic in nearly two months, captured the checkered flag in his Hatmaker Trucking / H Group Construction Pontiac Rocket, while Darrin finished second. Mike Kittrell (21) of Harriman, TN, who started seventh, finished third. Scott “Gold Digger” Randolph (37), of Baxter, TN clawed his way from a thirteenth place start to a fourth place finish. Larry Gray (D2) of Lexington, KY, in his first show of the season, earned a top five.

On a side note, Darrin Hatmaker, with his second place finish, took the 2004 points lead, earning a ten-point advantage over Damron. Damron, who had mechanical problems, finished eighth Saturday night.

Jeff Chambers (00) of Winfield, TN guided his Chambers Logging / Tomahawk Equipment Service / Patriot Transport / K and K Communications Gran Prix into victory lane for the fourth time this year, pacing a field of twelve cars. Chambers started the night sixth, but quickly moved to third. Chris Claborn (85) of Oneida, TN, has his best performance of the season, finishing second. Claborn started the night on the pole, but was quickly shuffled back to fourth, as Ron Jones (14) of Robbins, TN drove from the outside pole to the lead. On Lap 3, Anthony Chambers (44) of Helenwood, TN took the lead, passing Jones in the second corner. Three laps later, while leading the race, Chambers’ engine would expire, ending his night. Jones assumed the lead on the restart by was overtaken by Jeff Chambers two laps later. Jones finished third, while Bob Thompson (11) of Oneida, TN finished fourth. George Byrge (G2) of Clinton,TN finished fifth.

David West (33) of Oneida, TN started strong Saturday night, driving from the outside pole to the lead. West led the first six circuits before being overtaken by Thomas Lay (7) of Winfield, TN. Lay earned his eighth win of the season in his Reed’s Wrecker Service / Chambers Logging / Mountain Carbs / Jim’s Cylinder Head Repair / Tomahawk Equipment Repair / Marlar and Sons Dismantling Monte Carlo. West cross the line second, while Brian Bunch (35) of Robbins, TN finished third. Floyd Owens (86) of Monticello, KY finished fourth, while Crawford Stephens (21) finished fifth.

Troy Harmon (15) of Lake City, TN earned his first-ever win at Scenic Raceway Saturday night. Harmon led flag to flag in the caution free event. Harmon started Saturday night on the outside pole, but quickly gained the lead. Harmon held off eight-time winner Jamie Miller (10), also of Lake City, who caught fire on lap eight. Jeff Smith (4) of Caryville, TN finished second, while Tim Miller (II) of Knoxville, TN finished third. J.R. King (96) of Winfield, TN earned a fourth place finish, while Miller ended up fifth.

In another first Saturday night, Casey Riseden (97) of Winfield, TN earned her first-ever win at Scenic, outrunning the boys in impressive fashion. Riseden started the night on the bottom of the grid in her Mountain Carbs / Marlar Auto Sales Chevelle, rocketing from a tenth place start to the checkered flag. Riseden moved into the top five in just two laps, earning second by Lap 6. Riseden set her sights on the win, passing Scott “Dirty Red” Ward (7) of Lake City, TN on Lap 9. Ricky “Possum” Hooks (H1) finished third. Tim Loggins (2) of Robbins, TN, who started on the pole, finished fourth. Chris “Superman” Seeber (1) of Oliver Springs, TN earned another top five.

Next week, Scenic Raceway will host its third big event of the season, the Battle of the Blue and Grey. The special event will feature a 50-lap Late Model race paying $5,000 to win. The show will also include a 15-lap Mini-Stock feature that will dole out $500 to the winner. All other classes (Sportsman, Street and Road Hog) will run next Saturday night, racing for championship points. Gates will open at 3:30 p.m. Racing at 7 o’clock. Also scheduled to appear Saturday night will be Looney Ballooney and Friends, a clown-act for the kids.

Scenic Raceway features five classes of racing every Saturday night: Late Model, Sportsman, Street Stock, Mini Stock and Road Hog. For more information on Scenic Raceway, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Damron Earns Second Win of the Season At Scenic

Oneida, TN (2004-08-07) Tim Damron (23) of Oneida, TN solidified his points lead Saturday night, proving he is “the best of the best” local Late Model talent at Scenic Raceway. Anthony Chambers (44) of Helenwood captured his first win of the season in the Sportsman class, while points leader Thomas Lay (7) of Winfield, TN earned his eighth checkered flag of the season. Despite having to start at the rear of the field, Jamie Miller (10) of Lake City, TN won his eighth victory of the year, while Scott “Dirty Red” Ward (7) of Lake City, TN earned his fifth win of the season, closing the gap on points leader Tim Loggins (2) of Robbins, TN.

Damron, who started Saturday night’s Late Model feature first on the grid, also caused the first caution of the night, spinning out in the center of the first and second corners. On the subsequent restart, Johnny Lane (H1) of Clinton, TN, sporting a new ride after a horrific crash in Border Wars 2004, brought out the second yellow of the night. Once the race went green, outside pole sitter Darrin Hatmaker (27) of Lafollette, TN lunged to the front, leading the first eleven circuits. On Lap 12, Hatmaker and Lay encountered lap traffic on the backstretch, sandwiching Dwight Embree (22) of Berea, KY in an impressive three wide move for the lead. While Hatmaker went to the bottom, Damron went high, using the momentum to take the lead. Damron never relinquished the top spot, leading the final four laps in his CVR Race Car / West Haven Speed Equipment / Country Store / Tomahawk Equipment Repair Gran Prix en route to his second win of the season. Hatmaker crossed the line in second, while Scott “Gold Digger” Randolph (37) of Baxter, TN, in his first show the year, had a solid night, finishing third. Jeff Napper (112) of Winchester, KY and Greg Hansford (39) of Somerset, KY rounded out the top five.

In just his second Sportsman start, Anthony Chambers (44) earned his first win of the year, holding off three-time winner Jeff Chambers (00) of Winfield, TN to capture the checkered flag. Chambers started the night on the outside pole in his Ray Burke Construction / Edgewood Homes of Oneida / Uncle Dale’s Trading Post Monte Carlo, grabbing the lead from pole sitter Bill Rose (6) on the exit of turn two on the first lap. Chambers held off the Oliver Springs, TN driver for the first twelve trips. On Lap 12, Jeff Chambers moved past Rose in the second corner, taking second. Rose ended the night in third. Ron Jones (14) of Robbins, TN started twelfth on the grid, but drove a smooth and consistent race, earning a fourth place finish. Chris Claborn (85) of Oneida, TN had his best show of the season, finishing fifth.

The yellow rag waved seven times over the time shortened Street Class feature Saturday night, as Thomas Lay (7) came back from an early spin to win the feature. While ten cars made the start, just four cars finished the night. On the first lap, Warren Sweezey (99) of Crossville, TN tagged the outside fence on the backstretch, nearly rolling his ride. On the restart, Jim Baird (38) of Huntsville, TN lost a right front tire, nearly impacting the wall in turn two. Brian Bunch (35) of Robbins, TN and Lay caused the third and fourth first lap cautions. With Sweezey, Baird, Randy Lane (1) of Seymour, TN and David West (33) of Oneida, TN out early, just six cars remained on the course for eventual start of the race, which was slowed another three time caution. On Lap 6, Lay, who had been chasing outside pole sitter Kenneth “Duke” Lowe (D5) of Crossville, TN for the lead, spun out. On the restart, Ed Dwyer (17) of Lafollette, TN tagged the wall at the exit of turn three. Dwyer bounced back on the course and continued to race; however, the impact must have damaged the front end of his ride, as Dwyer drove straight into the turn one wall, making heavy contact. Dwyer brought his ride down the embankment and into the infield, but required medical attention following the wreck. Saturday night’s win was Lay’s seventh of the season in his Mountain Carbs / Chambers Logging / Jim’s Cylinder Head Repair / Tomahawk Equipment / Marlar and Son Dismantling / Reed’s Wrecker Service Monte Carlo. Lowe finished second, while Brian “Double Pump” Hooks (B3) crossed the third, while Bunch, who brought out the last yellow rag of the night, finished fourth.

Despite having to start at the rear of the field, Jamie Miller (10) of Lake City, TN earned his eighth win of the season in his Jim’s Quick Lube / Disney’s Cabinets Ford. The Mini-Stock feature was slowed only once for caution, when Troy Harmon (15) of Lake City, TN spun on Lap 4. Aaron “Ernie” Collette (13) of Lafollette, TN, who started on the pole, finished second Saturday night, while outside pole sitter Tim Miller (II) of Knoxville, TN cross the line third. Tom Vann (XXX) of Wartburg, TN finished fourth, while Terry Smith (33) finished fifth.

The Road Hog race was exiting once again, as Scott “Dirty Red” Ward (7) of Lake City, TN earned his fifth victory of the season in his Crossland Homes of Knoxville / White Total Performance / Budget Transmission of Knoxville / East Tennessee Concrete Pumping / B.K. Motorsports of Solway / Custom Tee’s Vinyl Signs of Lake City Monte Carlo, coming from inside the second row to victory lane. Ward and pole sitter John Smith (19) of Winfield, TN, made it exciting, mixing it up for the first four laps. After clearing Smith, Ward led the final seven. Clayton Forsyth (93) of Crossville, TN earned a solid second, while Smith wound up third. Casey Riseden (97) of Winfield, TN finished fourth, while Michael Duncan (14) finished fifth.

While Saturday night was a double points event at Scenic Raceway, little changed at the top of the leader board.

With his Late Model feature win Tim Damron (23) widen his lead over Darrin Hatmaker, 464 to 449. Durand Hatmaker (28) is third with 296, while Michael “Wild Child” Chilton (97) and Jason Trammell (90J) are fourth and fifth with 173 and 169 respectively.

In the Sportsman class, Bob Thompson leads with 460 points, while Ron Jones is a close second with 441. George Byrge (G2) is third with 411, while Jim Butler (33) is fourth with 377. Clyde Daugherty (07W) rounds out the top five, having amassed 205.

Lay leads the Street Class points, having garnered a total of 554. Brian Bunch (35) is 90-points out of the lead, holding onto 464. Brian Hooks (B3) is third, while David West (33) is fourth with 367 and 317 points respectively. Jim Baird (38) is fifth, having earned 225.

With eight wins, Jamie Miller (10) leads the Mini-Stock Championship chase, having amassed 582 points for the season. Charles Miller (31) is second with 438, while Ernie Collette (13) is third with 413. Troy Harmon (15) and J.R. King (96) round out the top five with 342 and 295 points respectively.

With his double points win Saturday night, Scott Ward (7) narrowed Tim Loggins’ (2) lead in the Road Hog class. Loggins now leads by 38, 440 to 402. Chris Seeber (1) is third with 380, while Ricky Hooks (H1) is just one point behind in fourth, 379. Jimmy Smith (26) is fifth, holding onto 368 points.

On Saturday, August 21, 2004, Scenic Raceway will hold it third big race of the year, the Battle of the Blue and Grey. The weekend will feature the Mason Dixon 50, a fifty-lap Late Model show paying $5,000 to win. Also that night, the Mini-Stock class will race for an increase purse with the winner earning $500. Unlike past big events, all classes will run that night.

Scenic Raceway features five classes of racing every Saturday night: Late Model, Sportsman, Street Stock, Mini Stock and Road Hog. For more information on Scenic Raceway, contact the track office at (423) 569-2727.

Marlar Wins The War At Scenic Raceway

Oneida, TN (2004-07-24) Mike Marlar (157) of Winfield, TN won the battle Saturday night, holding off Whitney “Whitrock” McQueary (5M) of Dunnville, KY to win the Super Late Model feature and $5,000 during Border Wars 2004 at Scenic Raceway. Thomas Lay (7) of Winfield, TN led every lap en route to the Street feature victory, while Jimmy Smith (26) of Pine Knot, KY made a pass in the closing laps to take home the $500 purse in the Road Hog race.

Marlar started his Wilson’s Service Center/AMS Racing Engines/PBM Performance Products/Rayburn Race Cars Pontiac Grand Prix inside the second row Saturday night, a position awarded by random draw of the four heat winners. Marlar started the night second on the leader board, qualifying with a 17.128 (105.09 mph). The fastest qualifier of the night was Shannon Thornsberry (17) of Martin, KY, posting a lap time of 17.074 (105.42 mph).

Anthony “The Dirty White Boy” White (2) of Clinton, TN started Saturday night’s main feature on the pole, but was quickly relegated to second on the first lap by a hard charging, outside pole sitter McQueary. McQueary would not relinquish his lead until lap thirty-seven, when a lap car went low into the infield in turn four, creating a dust cloud that covered the leader, who was taking the low lane through the corner. McQueary appeared to lift, while Marlar, who had dogged him for several laps, turned right and took the high side and the advantage. Marlar went on to seal the deal down the front stretch and into turn one. Marlar led the final laps, having to hold off McQueary through two restarts, including a yellow caused by fourth place driver Timmy Yeager (22) of Harrodsburg, KY. Yeager, who started sixth, slowed on lap 39, parking his ride for the night because of mechanical trouble. Ralph Francis (1) of Hazard, KY spun out on lap 47, bringing out the last caution of the night.

Marlar’s win was his second big money race of the season at Scenic, having taken the checkered flag in last month’s Dirty Daddy 50. Marlar also won last year’s Border Wars 2003 event. McQueary second place finish was his best of the season at Scenic, while White crossed the line third. Greg “Wild Thang” Johnson (19) of Harrodsburg, KY finished fourth, while Ray Cook (53) of Brasstown, NC battled from a tenth place start to finish fifth.

Johnny Lane (H1) of Clinton, TN took the wildest ride of the night. Lane and Billy Dever (93) of Hodgenville, KY got together on the front stretch in the first consi race, resulting in Lane going headlong into the wall at the pit entrance. The force of the impact reportedly cracked Lane’s racing seat.

A total of 34 cars signed up for the Super Late Model race, the largest field of cars of the season. Twenty four cars made the main feature, a field set by taking the top four cars from each of four heat races, three from each of two consi races and two provisionals.

In the first feature of the night, Thomas Lay (7) of Winfield walked away with the Street class win and the $500 purse, holding off Jim Baird (38) of Huntsville, TN. Brain Bunch (35) of Robbins, TN finished third, while David West (33) of Oneida, TN finished fourth. Thomas “T-Byrd” Byrd (21) of Winfield, TN finished fifth.

While it appeared Michael Duncan (14) of Oneida would roll into victory lane in the Road Hog feature, Jimmy Smith (26) of Pine Knot, KY spoiled his plans with just three laps to go, passing Duncan in turn two for the lead and the win. Smith took home