9-26-04

Papa Mike is Dog Gone Done!

Our last night at QC Speedway for Cheater's and Mechanic's Night. Gosh darn it, after qualifying for the feature race, we broke and were off the track. Michael's luck was just off this weekend.

Racing was still great tonight with both A-Mod and B-Mods vying for the checkered flag. Bob Dominacki showed up for the first time this season; and he, Jeff Morris, and Jim Willert were all putting on a great run for the checkered flag. Jim Willert would take the win. Just goes to show that even the old cars that have seen their better days can still kick butt. Congratulations Jim!!

Papa Mike climbed into the seat for the Mechanic's race. After his last run at Jackson County he was charged up for another chance to have the thrill of the track. Just a few laps into his race he began to lose it in turn 2. He corrected, overcorrected, and spun to a stop. Wham, he was t-boned just inside the left front. He had the longest caution of the night. Needless to say, he was off the track. Later, he would be sore, bruised, aching, and adamant that he would not be in the car again because his hit was not even half of what these drivers experience on a regular basis and his bell was rung. Today he said there will be no more inexperienced drivers in the Z71. Oh Darn, and I wanted to run in the next Powder Puff.

9-25-04

Michael was not in the car for tonight's racing. I never like to quote Papa Mike because he says one thing and does another, so when I print who'll be racing for the remainder of the season, I'm just quoting the big guy.

We had Andy in the car tonight for another chance at a $2,000 to win, with Michael's blessings. The kid worked on the car all night in hopes that Andy could show what the car has. Can I say we all walked away proud? Andy won the heat race and drew a fourth for the feature.

Andy ran this 50 lap race without a hitch, with not one mistake that I saw. At the 47th lap we had our first caution and 3 laps later the race winner was Richie Smith in the Nielson/Morris car 86. The Z71 came in 3rd and not one of us were disappointed. I enjoyed the night with all these guys and will miss Andy next year.

Andy had a great positive attitude the entire evening and just wouldn't let Papa Mike worry about what could be, he would qualify. He puffed Mike's head up so much with compliments on how great the car was I surprise Mike didn't just float away.

The rest of the year....who knows, I'm not making any promises!!

9-24-04

We were looking for a place in the feature tonight with a $2,000 win as incentive. Michael started 7th in his heat and ended with a 5th. Not good enough to be placed so we had to make a mad dash for the consi. Things were looking good since we had had front row for the start. Position doesn't always mean a spot in the feature as we all know. Michael was running a little loose but holding his own when he was punted in turns 1 & 2. He did a great job of correcting himself and not spinning out but was driven to the low side into turn 3, got loose, and hit a track tire. Broke, broke, broke. We ended with a broken steering box and spindle and our night was over. Andy wasn't any luckier as he was punted in turn 3 also. He, like us, was broke and couldn't continue the night.

Ray Cox had an excellent show in the feature tonight running up front and many car lengths ahead. With a few restarts racing was a little tougher as the leaders came onto lap traffic. On the very last lap, in the very last corner, Ray was taken on the inside by Jeff Morris. Ah, tonight had to be bittersweet for the Cox race team. Congratulations Jeff Morris on another win and a big purse.

9-19-04

Tonight at QC Speedway, close to the end of our season. Michael ran 7th in the heat and was placed in the Consi starting at the 6th place position and ending with a 2nd place finish. We are in the show.

Feature time and we started 14th. We ended with an 11th and Jeff Morris once again started on the pole and finished with the checkered flag. Shaune Lewis ended with a 3rd.

9-18-04

New venue for Michael tonight at the Peoria Speedway. Short little track with not much of a front or back stretch so I was going with the theory of a friend's advise that we sometimes get yanked on the stretches and this might give Michael an edge here. We ran the consi and he didn't make the show by one car, but my unbiased opinion (right), felt that Michael looked excellent running. First time at a new track and he was hooked up. He placed 3rd in the consi, but only 2 cars were taken for the 100 lap feature so we got to sit and watch.

Rick Cox and Milo Veloz were the only other Quad City racers that came for the show. Rick, like Michael, didn't make it to the feature. Milo, however, ran a great feature and even though he was sent to the back (when he shouldn't have been according to Michael) ended with a 5th place finish. Possibly he could have moved even further up, but the race was cut short due to a three car pile up. No matter, he proved he was one of the best cars on the track tonight.

Tomorrow at QC Speedway and then on to the $2,000 to win shows.

9-12-04

Jim was in the car for one last night to see how she could perform. Heat race we took a 5th, so didn't get a chance to run up front for a feature start. Jim moved in and out throughout the race vying for the opportunity for a possible top five finish, but it wasn't our night as he ran into a few bobbles on the track, but did a great job at saving the car in turn 4. Mary loves to see Jim in the open wheel and it brought back memories of our 2003 season. We ended with an 11th and Milo Veloz took the win.

Michael will be back in the car for the remaining races we run. Not many left, but are looking forward to the two $2,000 to win shows. My guess is Bob Dominacki may just take home one of those wins.

Congratulations to Brad Pershy on his first feature win. Exciting night for your team.

A special 'we love you' to our friend and crew member Dave Groene who has been experiencing major back problems these past weeks. We miss you Dave and hope you can kick butt and come back as 'the rock' we all know you are. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!!

9-11-04

Delayed Mechanic's Race at Jackson County tonight.

Jim was in the car tonight for our heat and feature races with Michael sitting out for the next two nights. Jim got 5th in his heat race and started towards the middle come feature time. Feature race Jim was looking good and missed a few bad wrecks by a hair. We were very fortunate. But, after running several laps more he was asked to leave the track because we had lost the back bumper in one of our scrapes that left the fuel cell unprotected. We placed 19th tonight. Dominacki took another win!

Papa Mike and Michael toiled hard to get the back bumper replaced by the Mechanic's race. Michael got to experience his first night of knowing what it feels like for us to be on the other end. I think he was just a little nervous wondering how dad would do, or maybe like his dad was worried about the car. Mike had a great time although he only got in a few laps. Our nemesis for the night was Mike Humphrey (all in fun) running in the Crampton 40 car. They were out to have 'the battle of mechanic's, who's running in front' when in turns 3 and 4 Humphrey went under Mike and ran over his left front. Darn, if we didn't get a flat tire. No harm done, because Mike had a great time and said he sees why these guys like to be on the track. Humphrey even came over and changed the flat!! The Crampton crew and Zemo crew were all laughing as we watched these guys race. Mikey Welge did a great job too, in the 43 car. At the start he ran into one of the tires, but kept his composure, and looked great out on the track for the remainder of the race. I wonder if he has the bug like Papa Mike? The three Mike's all thought they were big dogs tonight.

9-10-04

Oops....lots of work late tonight for the boys if they want to see Papa Mike in the Mechanic's race tomorrow night.

Michael placed 6th in the heat and had to run the consi if he wanted to qualify along with 34 entries who were trying to make the show tonight. Luckily, we just squeaked in, taking the 5th and last qualifying position. To the back we go again, but we're in. Michael had a run going tonight, but couldn't really find the line to move forward. Eventually the line wouldn't matter as he hit a tire and broke the front end. We were out of the race and left with a 19th finish. Dominacki took another track win.

Tomorrow's the day of mechanic's race, we hope. Jim will be in the car and hopefully we'll have a great night of racing.

9-5-04

Lots of Open Wheels tonight and we had to run the consi to qualify. Michael ended not making the cut in his heat race and had to hope for the best in the consi. Sometimes pressure must be good for the kid, and he did make the show. Michael ended with 13th and we were happy with the end result.

Jeff Morris took home the checkered flag and Rick Wages had a great race coming from the back.

Congratulations to Cassie's friend, Corey Peterson, on his Street Stock win!

9-4-04

Cheater's Night at Jackson County. We really came tonight to give Mike and Cassie a chance to hop in the car and run the Mechanic's and Powder Puff race. Both were pretty excited and Cassie even brought her own fire suit (and laughed about Jim's concern for her with the old, not in the best condition safety precaution.) We had weird things happen as a little fire started that sent every person scurrying and Cassie having second thoughts. Not to be outdone, Doug Crampton, also made it a night of oddities. He really struck my funny bone. Cheater's night isn't about jumping the start or running someone off the track, it's giving you the opportunity to run different tires, wings, etc.

Michael was very fast in his heat race and got a 3rd place finish...feature was more of a up and back competition for us and we ended with a 10th finish. Wings....what can I say? Dominacki dominated the track with the wings on his car. He was clocked in the heat at at 16:12, more than a second faster than Michael. In the feature he surely beat even that time as he lapped the majority of cars.

The end was disappointing for Mike and Cassie because the Mechanic's and Powder Puff were cancelled due to time restraints. Next week we'll try again, but Cassie will be at the world and miss out on the opportunity she has been waiting for all year.

8-29-04

That's racing! Had a great heat going on tonight with seasoned veterans running against us. The car was hooked up and Michael looked great as he followed long time driver Rick Wages, in the Shon Sanders #3. Can't complain with the outcome as Michael finished 2nd right on the tail of Rick.

Season Championship feature put us in the 12th starting position. However, Jim Willert would move to the back, as second place points holder, with the challenge he could double his money he if won the feature. Jim let the fans choose whether he stayed up front or moved to the rear. He had an overwhelming response that fans wanted him to go for the gusto. #44, Shaune Lewis, also moved to the back because he felt his car wasn't up to par. Alrighty then, we've moved up two spots before the race even begins. Come lap one Michael is in the middle of a bobble in turn 2 and we acquire a broken spindle. Yep, that's right, we are out of the feature after one lap for the season championship at Quad City Speedway. That's racing!

Bad luck would continue to befall drivers the rest of the night with approximately 10 cars out of 21 on the field when the checkered flag waiver. Congratulations to Neilson/Morris as he took ANOTHER feature win. This night had special meaning for the family so it was fitting that he would come out the winner.

Open Wheel Modified Feature 1. Jeff "The Red Rocket" Morris 2. Ray Cox Jr 3. Casey Schram 4. Marty Thompson 5. Ricky Wages 6. Rick Cox 7. Doug Crampton 8. Dan Woods 9. Jerry Durbin 10. Mark VerVynck 11. Jason Parrish 12. Marty Diercks 13. Donovan Lodge 14. Thad Wilson 15. Troy Emerick 16. Milo Veloz Jr 17. Jim Willert 18. Ray Bollinger 19. Shaune Lewis 20. Mike Zemo Jr 21. Jeremy Mowery

No results available for 2004 points standing.

8-27-04

Season Championship. Wow...Andy, Bob, Milo, John, Ian, late models...what a night of racing! The hairs on my arms stood on end while watching cars roll and the drivers walk away with free will. Thank goodness for the safety measures these guys take.

Tonight's open wheel season championship left you on the edge of your seat as leaders changed, drivers came from the back, and misfortune made its call. I can't even begin to describe all of tonight's ups and downs so will offer you the insight of drttrak.com and johnbull27.com

Michael did a fine job of racing in tonight's heat and feature with a 2nd and 6th place finish, respectively. Mom can't be prouder of her boy or the car. Our sincere congratulations to Bob Dominacki who did an excellent job of overcoming his obstacles and winning tonight's feature. Your talent amazes me, Bob!

With the racing season almost over you can bet Shane's Christmas wish list has been on our mind since the beginning of the year. Ian...don't give up on your dreams!

Here is what the experts had to say regarding tonight's racing:

DRTTRAK:

Dominacki Strikes Late in Modified Feature as Davenport Crowns Champions by Mike McGuire Davenport, IA (August 27, 2004) - Friday’s 2004 Season Championships at the Davenport Speedway were truly representative of the entire season. The evening’s racing program had a lot of hard-nosed racing, surprise winners, and a lot of rain. With the Season Championships on the line, promoter Bob Wagener offered the first and second place drivers in four classes the opportunity to double their pay, if they started in the back of their feature and won. If a driver took the promoter’s offer, five laps were added to the length of the race. John Bull, with a comfortable lead in V-8 Modified points, elected to try for the big pay-off in the feature. Bull managed to get into the top five, but a flat tire would drop him to a 19th place finish. With Bull starting in the rear, a handful of drivers passed around the lead of the feature like an unwanted fruitcake. With ten laps to go, Bob Dominacki was at the tail of the field after being involved in a incident. Dominacki, aided by a couple of cautions, stormed through the field and took the lead on lap 23 of 25. Dominacki scored his fourth win of the season, with Doug Crampton second, and Chuck Hanna third. Bruce Hanford and Ray Cox Jr. rounded out the top five. Despite his poor finish, John Bull completed the 3-peat, earning his third track title by 24 points over Chuck Hanna. Feature: 1. Bob Dominacki; 2. Doug Crampton; 3. Chuck Hanna; 4. Bruce Hanford; 5. Ray Cox Jr.; 6. Mike Zemo Jr.; 7. Donovan Lodge; 8. Chris Giegle; 9. Ron Weedon; 10. Marty Diercks; 11. Marty Liek; 12. Wayne Shipley; 13. bret Diercks; 14. Scott Hill; 15. Randall VerPlaeste; 16. Josh Giegle; 17. Andy Cook; 18. Milo Veloz Jr.; 19. John Bull; 20. Ian Dettmer

V-8 Modifieds points (unofficial) 1. John Bull(27) 459 2. Chuck Hanna(65) 435 3. Milo Veloz Jr.(43) 397 4. Doug Crampton(40) 391 5. Mike Zemo Jr.(71) 380 6. Ray Cox Jr.(70) 377 7. Ron Weedon(00) 365 8. Chris Giegle(97c) 351 9. Andy Cook(78) 332 10. Bob Dominacki(5d) 319

BULL NATION:

8-23-04

First of all I want to give an honest "I'm sorry" to Jerry Durbin for the flat tire that was not replaced in time to get back on the track to make it to the feature. Michael checked up for a car in front of him and managed not to put the driver ahead of him in and spin, but we didn't help Jerry with tonight's races.

What a track it was tonight. I've never seen so many cautions and crashes. We did make it to the feature but pile-ups were everywhere. We qualified through the consi and started way in the back for the feature. We did finish with a 12th position and I'm happy with that. Special thanks to Michael Pershy for giving Mike a heads up and Ray Cox Jr., Jake Willert, the Lewis crew, and Jim Sandusky for helping assist in getting the car back on the track in time. It might not be a well-known fact, but competitors can do much more than expected when helping their challengers on the field. I wish we could have done the same for Jerry. Congratulation to Jeff Morris on ANOTHER win at QC Speedway.

One plus to a wet track...when I got out to my car it didn't need to be washed.

8-20-04

Happy Birthday Papa Mike! I sort of expected tonight's events to play out the way they did, although Mike would have totally disagreed they would prior to us hitting the field. Michael's heat race began with him in 5th position, knowing full well he would have to at least take a 4th to qualify for the feature. He had an excellent run trying to keep up; our motor is 14 years old and has played her part in keeping us on the track and not failing us. She's tired and just can't keep up with the big boys. Michael manages to hold her line and push forward as much as she can. The other drivers with the better motors will just have to go up, or go down, to pass the little engine that does its best with track conditions similar to this one. Tonight wasn't the case as Michael held his line among three other cars all trying to get ahead, but received a full throttle bumper to his back end that forced him into a full spin. To the back of the pack we went along with the other driver. Michael didn't make the top 4 so the Consi gave him one more chance. There he was able to qualify and run the feature.

We started the feature way in the back and slowly trudged up to a 12th position when the checkered flag waived. A few battles going on tonight and I was sorry to see Dominacki off the track; never to return. Not sure what happened to him, but his car was kickin butt in the heat race. As it should be, I always hold to the motto 'what goes around comes around' and in fact it came true. First and second places were running ever so closely when the motto appeared. Shit happens! Congratulations to Chuck Hanna and his crew for tonight's win.

Ian Dettmer....hope to see you at Sunday's race!

8-15-04

QC Speedway and we started second row outside. Michael lost a few spots during the run and went back to 6th, but had time to play catch-up. We ended with 4th and qualified for the feature. Ray's car was looking good as there was a good distance between him and the 2nd place car when he took the win.

Feature time. Michael started in 5th, but had a few run-ins on the track. While in turn 4 Milo went underneath to pass and Michael caught his tail and Jeff Morris caught Milo's left rear. Thank goodness no damage to any of the cars (I think). Restart time and I see Dan Woods is holding his own in first (it's coming Dan!). The Z71 ran behind our pit neighbor, Shaune Lewis, who eventually had car problems of his own in the corner and Michael tapped his bumper and spun. To the back we go....Lots of cautions tonight but Michael avoided them for the remainder of the race. The last incident of course left us with no front brake, but Michael did admirably to finish. We ended with 10th and Mr. Ray Cox Jr. won for the first time this year at the QC Speedway. Congratulations Ray!!

Jim is looking excellent in the 1G. He won last night at Maquoketa and placed 2nd in tonight's feature. Jim and Ray can attest to the fact 'change is good.'

8-13-04

8-10-04

Davenport Speedway's 1/2 mile for Michael tonight. They promised me they just wanted to hit the big track and would stay in the back ...out of trouble. There were 18 cars for the A feature modified and Michael did keep his promise and stayed out of trouble. Our first experience on the 1/2 mile and we ended with a 13th. Barker took the checkered flag.

Birkhoefer won the late model division. I'd say the fans in the stands got what they wanted.

8-8-04

4th heat win!!

Michael got his 4th heat win, but the feature is ever elusive. Michael started 5th in the feature and was taken out before the first lap was completed. He ran well for awhile on the high side keeping up with Ronnie Weedon and trying his darndest to get around him. Again he was hit and the Z71 immediately forged down to the inside. We ended with 10th for the night.

Both drivers who caused us a little set back made it a point to apologize. I like that. When the time comes and Michael makes his bobble, cause it is going to happen, I hope they realize Michael, like they, have only intentions of driving clean. We did receive a compliment from Rob Connors when he commented that Michael made a great save on an incident that could have been much worse. There are a number of drivers and crews out there I have the utmost respect for.

Jeff Morris...what secret do you and Mr. Neilson have? Once again Jeff took the checkered flag, as he flew around that track!!

Cassie, Tia, and Lindsay.........Paige loved her gifts. She has quietly been playing with them for over 3 hours tonight and gives you a big thank you.

8-7-04

8-6-04

8-1-04

QC Speedway We finished 3rd in the heat behind Schram and Thad Wilson. The Z71 started 3rd in the feature and lost a few spots to other drivers moving us to 7th. It wouldn't last long and Michael made his way back to the 3rd position on the high side. Again we're racing with veteran Ray Cox Jr. and Michael continued to battle him for position on the field.

High five to Dan Woods who won his heat and ran had a good show in the feature until he was knocked off the track.

7-30-04

7-25-04

QC Speedway We ran 14 laps until the LR axle started spinning and we had to pull in.

Happy Birthday to Michael, Ray Cox Jr. and Doug Crampton!

7-24-04

7-23-04

7-18-04

Started our heat race in the front row. The car was loose and we ended up 4th. Not good enough for tonight's heat so we'll have to run the consi.

Consi we started front row and had a few bobbles throughout. Ended up taking 3rd and qualifying for the show. The previous consi Ray Cox Jr. won the race and my guess is Michael sitting on the infield got a birds eye view of him taking his win on the outside line. Michael tried to emulate Ray, but we didn't get the finish Ray pulled.

Feature time and we started 18th position. The car was much better this race with a few changes made to the set-up. Throughout most of the race Michael ran towards the back with Ronnie Weedon. Did it alter his attitude being in the back?....Nah, he said he was having fun running next to the racing legend with over 500 feature wins. With 30 cars trying to qualify for the feature we figured our night went well. We finished with a 14th and Jeff Morris took the checkered flag with Andy right behind..

7-17-04

Jackson County Speedway. Micahel started front row on the outside in the heat race. He ran really well on the outside and we ended with a 2nd finish.

Feature time and we were front row inside. Andy and Michael were both starting front row so we were looking for a little bit of fun in racing action. Michael said if he couldn't keep the pole he as going to follow Andy round the track. However, Andy had car problems and pulled out on the first lap. Our night wasn't what we hoped for as Michael continued to fall to the back. We were positioned in the wrong spot on our restart and continued to lag. Michael finished with 10th.

Dad says he'll continue to work on getting the set-up correct.

7-16-04

7-11-04

7-10-04

Ran Jackson County tonight. Mike has been making some adjustments to the set-up and we couldn't test it at Davenport last night so we went to Jackson County Speedway to do a little test and tune.

Heat race we were placed in the back of the pack since we haven't been racing this venue all season. Michael ran well enough, but we weren't really sure of the track and what to expect so we didn't perform miracles. Michael raced to a 6th place finish and qualified in the feature for the 12th spot.

Feature time and we did well. No crashes, no breaks, and no spin-outs. Little Z made us proud and he said dad had improved the car to his liking. Not much chance of passing, but we did make the top 10. That's our goal for this season and we drove away happy.

Congratulations to Andy on his feature win. Always nice to pit with the Cook and Sandusky group. Makes the long waits much more tolerable. Jim moved up in the feature to 1st position, but it didn't last as Terry Neal took home the checkered flag in the late model division.

7-9-04

7-4-04

3rd Heat Win!!

Woo-Hoo, the boy did it again. Michael pulled a heat win for the third time this season, and if we had run any more laps who knows what would have happened. Milo Veloz was on his tail and the boyz were running very close by laps 9 and 10.

Feature time and we are in the front row!! Michael started with a good run and did a pretty darn good job on the outside. With numerous cautions we kept moving backward; and the Z71 couldn't find her line to move forward. The night ended with an 11th place finish for us and Jeff Morris took home the checkered flag. Our 500 h.p. motor just couldn't keep up with the guys in front. Papa Mike is working on remedying that problem, but for now we just keep moving forward and staying positive.

7-2-04

Good night tonight. Michael started 4th in his heat race but during the run fell back to 7th position. I was a little disappointed because he wasn't going to place in the top 4 but he kept focused and ended up with a 4th place finish.

Feature time he started outside first row and it was some pretty exciting racing. He ran top dawg from lap 3 through 7 and then the big dawgs started coming on. John Bull aced him in turns 1 and 2 on the low side and the race continued on. A few cautions cost us a few more spots and we ended the night with a 5th. Milo Veloz, in his Bob Pierce car, won again. The last 5 laps were pretty intense and we send apologies to the Crampton gang for our unintended mishap.

6-25-04

2nd Heat Win at QC Speedway

Dawg Gone Fun Tonight

Tonight was a fun night!!! Fred Remley did what most drivers wouldn't dare to do; he was offered double the win payout if he moved form his front row outside position to the back of pack. He was the only driver of the night in all divisions who chose to take Kevin and Carey Feller up on their offer. Would I have done it? No....you work all year for feature wins and lead in points, so I can't say I blame the other 7 drivers who turned it down. But did Fred Remley put on a show. He came from the very back in this 35 lap feature and after several cautions took the LEAD. He took home the mid-season win and $1,500. The fans were ecstatic and he received a standing ovation. Tonight Fred Remley built a fan base he never would have had except for his daring move to go to the back. We applaud you Fred!!

Michael's night was just as exciting for us when he won his heat race!! Our feature placed us in 17th, but we bargained for that since our points have dropped due to vacation, not qualifying, and a broken car. Michael didn't move up much...only to 15th by the end of the race. He ran with the best of them and through no fault of his own just couldn't get a line to pass.

Let's hope Kevin and Carey can keep up the good work. Tonight was the most exciting race I have seen in the three years we've been racing, of course with the exception of the Z71 wins.

6-25-04

The track was different tonight and I swore the late model's were dropping off like flies. Turns 3 and 4 were the driving force to take the cars off the track and you have to admit Rob Toland made a valiant effort of just continue on his merry way when he went over turn 4.

Our heat race didn't fair very well as Michael fell into the 2 and 8Vs little bobble. He ended in the infield, but didn't stop the race and that left him a half lap down and trying to catch up with the rest of the guys. He did an excellent job from wwaaaaaaaay in the back and by the time the race was complete he had caught up with the other drivers. The one time I hope for a caution, but the race ran smooth to the finish with John Bull taking the win.

Well, we ended last in our heat race, so guess where we started? Michael was last row outside. He was a little to forceful for my taste but he ran clear up to a 9th position. I'm willing to admit he is hard charging it and deserves a little credit when he gets bumped by the 73J (I think) and spins. Too much commotion for me to note what all goes on that race track, but the die hard guys, they amaze me at what they catch on the entire track. Michael was placed back in last and got to run with one of my up and coming favorites, Ian Dettmer. He and Ian ran for awhile and eventually Michael passed him. Where Ian finished I couldn't say, but Michael made it up to 13th. Gotta take our bumps and bruises as we go. I was disappointed for Michael, but we left with the car in tact (remember, we just put a new body on her). I was glad to see my boy and the car come out unblemished.

6-20-04

Getting close to mid-season. If not mistaken, next Sunday at QC Speedway..

The entire family went to Cedar Point in Ohio for the weekend. Paul Sr., I mean Mike Sr, even road the roller coasters. Just ask him what he thought of the Dragster, 120 miles fast, straight up 450 feet, crest, and straight down. What a rush!!

6-18-04

6-13-04

Quad City Speedway. We took a lickin and won free chicken. The track has a special treat for the guys that walk away after taking a lickin. Tonight was our night to win. We got 4th in our heat race, but I forgot with the great turn-out of cars in the Open Wheel division the track only takes the first three place finishe from the 4 heat races. Darn it!! Michael ran in the first consi, but with the wave of the checkered flag we managed to crash and burn coming out of turn 4. Michael slammed the wall, nose in, and our night was over with a bumper detached from the chassis. Our failure could have been worse if Joe Carleton hadn't made a valiant effort to steer clear of the Z71. He didn't reach his expectations, but at least the drivers both walked away.

Open Wheel racing was hairy tonight with a few cautions and some hard driving. Doug Crampton ran the race throughout, up front, and netted his first feature for the year. The Crampton camp was mighty happy and it was fun to see their enthusiasm. It's depressing seeing so many drivers fall off the track due to bad luck of one type or another, but they all pull themselves up by the boot straps and are back again the following week. No matter what their failure, they never give up.

6-11-04

The car was dialed up tonight and the majority of it was her driver. This night we couldn't just say the set-up pulled us through, we saw Michael perform with attitude. His heat race he ran 4th and didn't need to qualify through the consi. He started second row inside and managed to pull ahead and was right on Casey Schram's tail looking for the lead. Little hits and missed happened and we had cautions to pull us back. Last restart Michael was in a seventh spot and kicked his car into overdrive. He ran on the outside, on the cushion, and there was no looking back. We placed 4th tonight and we were on cloud nine.

Michael and Papa are in perfect sync with adjusting the car and Michael has improved so much there are times I actually don't worry anymore.

Welcome back Ian!!

6-9-04

Looked like rainstorms but that didn't stop us from making a trip to Tipton to run a different track and run for the $800 purse. Michael ran his heat race starting in 4th and ending with a 5th finish. With 26 cars we knew we would be running a consi, but with passing points counting as placement we made the feature without doing so. Michael started 15th in the feature and he was doing well and moving up. SEVERAL times he just happened to be in the wrong spot and the wrong time and going into turns 1 and 2 was taken out when drivers on the high side would spin out and drop into the car on the inside. Back we'd go and up we would come. Still, we couldn't make it in the top 10. Our last incident occurred when Michael was tapped by another driver which gave us a flat tire. With a few laps to go, Michael had to check into the infield. We ended with 16th, but had the pleasure of one more racing night.

Milo did excellent. Although he had to run the consi and start dead last in the race (21st) he moved right up to a seventh place finish; he was hard charging it tonight.

6-6-04

East Moline tonight and we had 28 open wheels. Not enough for the extra money, but enough to send some drivers home. Michael placed 3rd in the heat, after running 1st for a few laps, so he was able to qualify and not have to run either consi. We started 5th in the feature and he showed well. Michael continues to improve and runs with the big boyz. We ended the night with an 8th place finish and one of our favorites, Ronnie Weedon, won the show. This is Ronnie's 504th win. Imagine that.

Jim's night was not as great. Running in the feature with not even the first lap down, calamity arose on the track which led Jim to spin and turn over onto the roof of his car. Thankfully, he came out with no injuries to himself. He'll have a little work to do this week to bring the Gustaf 1G up to par for next week's racing.

Congratulations Ronnie Weedon!

6-5-04

6-4-04

Davenport tonight. Michael did great in the heat and ran 3rd. He started 2nd row outside in the feature and really had a good run going. He was performing like he could keep his position and even move up. There is always one in the bunch who has no finesse when it comes to clean racing and he took Michael out when he was headed for a second place spot. Anyone on our team will admit I hate saying someone did anything purposely and with intent, but hey, the 4D did ( I think this is the first time I've every dogged any driver). The race was stopped several times for restarts because this guy just can't run the race without cheating. Eventually the old time saying "what goes around comes around" happened and he ran off the track. Well deserved ending I might add. Michael did have to go to the back of the pack and start his run all over again. He ended with a 10th place finish, and considering our misfortune, I thought he acted with dignity considering the turn of events. Way to go Michael!!

Late model feature winner was Jim Sandusky in the 1G. Jim had an excellent run tonight and deserved the checkered flag. Open Wheel feature winner was Milo Veloz who also ran a good show.

5-30-04

East Moline Rained Out.

Michael got a little R&R for the weekend and spent his time in rain, mud, and sunshine enjoying 4-wheeling and fishing. Gotta do it when you have the chance.

5-28-04

Michael's confidence as this year's full-time driver is showing. In the feature he was placed in the 13th position and ran his way around the track moving up, very well I might add. We ended with a 10th place position and we were all happy with the outcome. Tonight was single line racing and the kid managed to find ways to move forward.

Michael and Dad are beginning to work on the same page when it comes to the set-up and between the two of them they are coming up with a plan that works well for the car and the driver. I'm feeling more confident too, and can actually look around without focusing on the Z71 the entire time out.

5-23-04

QC Speedway rained out. We were ready for tonight but the weather said no.

Zemo Motorsports would like to thank all the people who have supported us and offered their congratulations to Mike and Michael (especially Jim Sandusky, who had as big a grin as we did.)

We'd also like to send a special thanks to Ron Gustaf of Gustaf Engines for getting us on the track. If it wasn't for his expertise we would not have been on the racing 5/14 or managed to capture our first heat win at QC Speedway. Mike had major fuel pump problems to contend with and Ron came to our rescue. We've been fortunate to meet some teams that have the capacity to help when we are down and out.

Looking forward to next Sunday and Leisure Time in East Moline after the races. See you there!!

5-21-04

5-16-04

QC Speedway and we made it through the night!! Better yet, Michael was in the front row of the heat and he proved he could drive the car into the corners like he's been doing it all his life. He took the heat WIN which just about knocked me on my butt. I pictured Mike Sr. laying somewhere suffering from high blood pressure!! He says he's calm now and doesn't worry. Yeah, like I believe him!!

With our being lowest in points it put us in a good spot, out front on the outside. I thought Michael took the pressure well and tried to hold his own. He did fall back to 4th spot, but it appeared he could move up again. In turns 3 & 4 he was punted into a spin by a car behind him. Dang Nabbit!! He tried to pull up on the outside of the running field to get his position back and I'm telling myself, sorry Michael you were spun out and will be headed to the back of the pack. Michael ended in 15 position, and since there were 31 cars tonight we had an extra bonus of going home with $100.

As a footnote, I'm a loser when knowing what the heck the rules are in the division. After a few late model drivers and spectators told me we need to be a little more aggressive I found out that when you are knocked around, and don't spin out on your own, you aren't suppose to go to the back of the pack. The advice was to get a little ballzier and fight for your place. Another lesson learned.

5-9-04

5-7-04

5-2-04

4-30-04

4-25-04

4-23-04

Season points opener at Davenport Speedway on a beautiful day. 16 Modifieds were in the field and Michael drew a 74 coming in the gates so he started close to last in his heat. Michael managed to move up a spot or two to finish 5th in the heat race and qualified for the feature. He flashed a smile to dad as he threw up the peace sign to let him know he was starting 2nd in the feature.

By feature time Michael had some butterflies since he was starting up close to the front. Michael had a bad start, as he says, but luckily got it back on the only caution flag for the A-mod feature. After the restart Michael held onto 2nd for a couple laps before John Bull passed by him which threw some dirt onto Michael's helmet and set him back as he tried dearly to pull off his tearoffs... but couldn't find them. This left Michael in the 6th spot before Doug Crampton would be the last to pass him. Bob Dominacki ended up with the win and Michael finished 6th due to Milo Veloz, Jr being disqualified for running to light (20 pounds off is something we're sorry to see). This has been Michael's best finish at Davenport Speedway.

4-17-04

We made the trip to Jackson County Speedway to visit a track I like and give Michael a little practice. Heat race had Michael running with Andy Cook and we knew there would be a little playtime with the boyz and their cars. Michael followed Andy and found an opportunity to learn from one of the best. Wouldn't you know it. Michael followed a tad to close and when Andy started to spin-out Michael hit him and crinkled the body. No harm done and we were in the feature (Andy finished third). The feature was looking good until Michael fell into a pile up in turns one and two and got a flat tire and both quarter panels MANGLED. Mike and Gene were quick enough to get the tire changed and he was back out on the track to continue the race. Interestingly enough Michael showed a little more aggressiveness and moved up a few spots. However, he hit one of the tires and broke the steering box and pulled off the track.

Mike was not a happy camper when his baby came back not looking at all like she did when she started. He was depressed, but I hold the theory as long as Michael comes out in perfect condition I'll be satisfied. Dad eventually cooled down and watched the end of the late model race. Toland won (and would win again Sunday at Quincy).

When bad things happen we take the attitude worse things could have happened. Our silver lining, when Mike began rebuilding the car he discovered the transmission plug had fallen out. Had we finished the race we would have lost a transmission. A much bigger headache than the one we drove away with.

It was a nice weekend to spend time with Jessica, Alex, and the Sandusky and Cook crew.

4-16-04

Our season opener began at Davenport Speedway tonight with the IMCA Deery Show. Twenty-one Open Wheels made the show and Michael began his first night in the seat starting the feature in 18th. Runs were great and the Z71 was on the track with her first set of American Racer's. Shiny new car with a new attitude. Michael got a little crinkle in hot laps, but the rest of the night was clean with no damage to the car. He made his laps and finished with a 12th place finish (sigh of relief.).

Good to see our racing buddies once again and friendships continuing. We're happy to be back and hoping to see Michael grow this season. Our goal is to have fun, enjoy our time with friends, give Michael the time he needs, and hopefully end in the top 10 at the end of the season. Thanks to Gene and Dave for supporting the team.

Link to building the car

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The 23 Driver Quilt Pulled in $1,720 for the Randy Wages Benefit! 

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