McGaha, Abbey, Davis, Anderson, Kristenek, Pritchett pace Saturday’s Icebreaker action at Abilene Speedway
February 27, 2012
Night two of Abilene Speedway’s annual Icebreaker on the ¼ mile, high-banked, red clay, oval saw several new cars sign in for the evening including former IMCA Modified Champion, PJ Egbert in his recently finished new ride. As part of the Icebreaker, tonight’s show was also the first race of IMCA’s Lone Star Series, for all four classes - Modified, Sportmod, Stock Car and Hobby.
Along with the IMCA Classes, the Street Stocks, Jr. Mini Stock and Pure Stocks were also on hand for a second night of track points racing.
Sunday concludes the weekend with racing starting at 1:00pm for the IMCA Modifieds, Southern Sportmods, Stock Cars and Hobby Stocks as they do battle for round 2 of the Lone Star Series.
McGaha Out Muscles Sustaire in Mod Main
Abilene’s Josh McGaha was able to hold off last night’s winner Kevin Sustaire in the 20-lap IMCA Modified main, but the win came at a price. McGaha had his motor blow up on the final lap as he and Sustaire swapped the lead on the final circuit. Andy Gage got out front early before giving up the top to McGaha at halfway. Sustaire, who battled to get past Gage in the waning laps, quickly caught McGaha as his motor began to sour. Sustaire got a sniff at the lead in turns 1-2, but McGaha fought back in the final corner to eke out the victory.
Modified driver Josh McGaha came to victory lane in the Icebreaker. Debbie Johnson photo.
On the initial start of the IMCA Modified main, Gage got out front with Tristan Sikes, McGaha and John Gober on his tail, but Ben Ketteman, Bo Newton and Danny Hogue tangled in turn 2 for a complete restart. On the second try Sikes hung on top beside Gage through turns 1-2, but Gage got the advantage off turn 4 for the lead. Sikes fell in line second with Gober, McGaha and Monte Bolton in pursuit.
Sustaire got by Bolton for fifth While McGaha looked outside Gober for third, taking the spot on lap 2. Sustaire was next to put Gober back a spot, while Keith White worked past Bolton for sixth. Tyler Iverson and Bolton made contact fighting for a spot with Iverson going around for a lap 6 caution. On the restart McGaha continued to pressure Sikes for second and took the spot.
Just as McGaha jumped outside Gage, and White took fifth from Gober an infield tire on the track brought out yellow on lap 9. Once back to green McGaha looked high again, with Sikes, Sustaire and White almost three wide for third. At the crossed flags it was McGaha out front, Gage, Sikes, Sustaire and White in the top five.
Sustaire finally took third from Sikes as Jimmy Gustin made his way up to sixth. White put Sikes back to fifth on lap 11. As the top six ran single file, there was still side by side racing from seventh on back. Sustaire began to put the heat on Gage for second and got the spot with three to go.
With two to go Sustaire had closed on McGaha to within two car lengths. On the final lap Sustaire got the nose out front off turn 2 as the leaders ran wheel to wheel down the back stretch and into turn 3. McGaha got the edge back coming off (turn) 4 beating Sustaire back to the checkers in the Texas Roadhouse, A City Speed, Showtime Signs & Designs, Extreme Bodies, L&M Farms, Fletchers Custom Engines, Dirt Works Chassis.
“The car was perfect the whole time,” commented McGaha. “I couldn’t ask for a better car. I put a hole in the radiator at some time and noticed the water temperature was going up. I saw it was up to 230, but it wasn’t slowing down, so I didn’t either. On the last lap it nosed over and it was all it had to make the last lap. I couldn’t be happier with Russ Fletcher’s motor, anyone else’s wouldn’t have taken the abuse I give this one.”
Kevin (Sustaire) got by me on one end on the last lap in turn 1. He slipped a little bit in turn 3 and I was able to get back by him and nose him out at the line. I just got lucky I guess. I cost me a motor to do it though. Kevin and I race a lot, but I didn’t know that he was there till the last couple laps. Every time we race with Kevin, it’s clean.”
“I think in the heat we may be to do some passing today, but the feature is going to be tough. Hopefully we have some luck on the draw and get a good starting. If not, we’ll try something, even if it’s the high side.”
IMCA Modifieds
911 Josh McGaha, Abilene
71 Kevin Sustaire, Emory
021 Andy Gage, Whiting, Ia.
1 Keith White, Academy
99 Tristan Sikes, Eunice, NM
19 Jimmy Gustin, Marshalltown, Ia.
23 Chris Elliott, Eastland
72 Charles Brewer, Abilene
52 John Gober, Poolville
7 Vince Ogle, Lubbock
12 Brandon Stewart, Forney
29 Jamie Campbell, Adkins
371 Ben Ketteman, Pflugerville
02 David Davis, Sweetwater
707 PJ Egbert, Copperas Cove
98 Tyler Iverson, Albion, Nebr.
444 Joe Spillman, Marble Falls
69 Danny Hogue, Abilene
89 Bo Newton, Bangs
41 Monte Bolton, Lubbock
IMCA Modified B-mains(Top 4 to A-main)
B-main #1 19 Jimmy Gustin, Marshalltown, Ia., 69 Danny Hogue, Abilene, 29 Jamie Campbell, Adkins, 371 Ben Ketteman, Pflugerville
B-main #2 23 Chris Elliott, Eastland, 12 Brandon Stewart, Forney, 444 Joe Spillman, Marble Falls. 89 Bo Newton, Bangs
IMCA Modified heats(Top 2 to A-main)
Heat 1 7 Vince Ogle, Lubbock, 1 Keith White, Academy
Heat 2 98 Tyler Iverson, Albion, Nebr., 02 David Davis, Sweetwater
Heat 3 72 Charles Brewer, Abilene, 911 Josh McGaha, Abilene
Heat 4 021 Andy Gage, Whiting, Ia., 707 PJ Egbert, Copperas Cove
Heat 5 41 Monte Bolton, Lubbock, 52 John Gober, Poolville
Heat 6 71 Kevin Sustaire, Emory, 99 Tristan Sikes, Eunice, NM
Abbey goes Flag to Flag in Sportmod Scramble
Defending IMCA Southern Sportmod champion, Dean Abbey (Haslet) took a step towards repeating at the head of the class scoring the first of the Lone Star Series events for 2012. Abbey got the point in turn 1, then never looked back as he ran wire to wire to the checkers. Kevin Green kept Abbey honest challenging Abbey early and keeping the pressure on during the final stages of the 20-lapper, but was unable to mount a serious challenge at the end.
Dean Abbey was the Sportmod winner at the Icebreaker. Debbie Johnson photo.
It was nearly three wide for the lead as the 23-car IMCA Southern Sportmod main took the green between Abbey, Green and Mike Easterwood. As lap 1 sorted the field it was Green, Johnny Torres, Easterwood and Kevin Rutherford trailing Abbey. Sid Kiphen made quick work of Rutherford for fifth as Torres closed the gap on Green.
As Abbey began to creep away, Green, Torres and Kiphen were nose to tail for second. Easterwood spun from a five car for sixth after contact with Ronnie Welborn, who was sent to the tail. Once back under green, Abbey and Green broke away from Torres and Kiphen while James Blaylock again worked his way up from starting in the back, to seventh.
At the crossed flags it was Abbey, Green, Torres, Kiphen and Rutherford in the top five with Blaylock and Cody Leonard wheel to wheel for sixth. Cory Williams spun on lap 10 to bring out the yellow. On the restart Abbey got a good jump, while Blaylock got by Leonard for sixth and along side Rutherford.
Abbey was just about to stretch his legs when Robby Crabtree and Williams tangled for a lap 18 caution, rebunching the field. On green, Abbey broke away, while Blaylock slowed from fifth and Justin Shaw had trouble running seventh. Both were able to limp off track leaving Abbey in the Abbey Racing, Braka Operating, Pro Fit, E&E Kustom Paint & Body, JL Racing, Tumbleweed BBQ, Abilene Powder Coating, TM Racing, Centex Motorsports, Chase Me Race Engines, Express Race Car to snag the victory.
“It was a mixture of things to get the win tonight,” stated Abbey. “This new Express will come off the corner like nothing I’ve ever driven before. I couldn’t do this without the help and support of family and crew. The way they had the car set was amazingly good. Everything has just come together and it’s been a good weekend.”
“When I got this new I just was hoping to be consistent. We weren’t able to practice any until Thursday night. We spent the night trying to get used to the car and learn what the car liked. We wanted to have a strong start in the new and hopefully pick up some wins.”
“The best of the best are here for the Icebreaker, and the competition is really tough. I’m just glad to be able to run up front like we have this weekend. This car is really good on the dry slick and I hope will be good today too. We’ll see how the draw goes, starting position is important on Sunday’s track.”
IMCA Southern Sportmods
26 Dean Abbey, Haslet
15 Kevin Green, Robinson
166 Johnny Torres, San Antonio
58 Sid Kiphen, Gatesville
88 Doug Easterling, Rule
9 Kevin Rutherford, Flower Mound
37 Cody Leonard, Sinton
77 Tyler Fain, Tuscola
48 Bradley Poor, Abilene
59 Chad Hertel, Abilene
223 Nick Roberts, Des Moines, Ia.
5 Tad Reutzel, Burt. Ia.
690 Todd Bartlett, Abilene
97 Julie Boettler, Farmington, NM
387 Allen Montgomery, Ft. Worth
30 Josh Modde, Des Moines, Ia.
80 Mike Easterwood, Sundown
511 Cory Williams, Slaton
20 Ronnie Welborn, Princeton
12 James Blaylock, Altus, Okla
55 Justin Shaw, Sweetwater
118 Robby Crabtree, Abilene
38 Matt Mueller, Abilene
IMCA Southern Sportmod B-mains(Top 4 to A-main)
B-main #1 30 Josh Modde, Des Moines, Ia., 387 Allen Montgomery, Ft. Worth, 223 Nick Roberts, Des Moines, Ia., 88 Doug Easterling, Rule
B-main #2 48 Bradley Poor, Abilene, 59 Chad Hertel, Abilene, 12 James Blaylock, Altus, Okla., 77 Tyler Fain, Tuscola
IMCA Southern Sportmod heats(Top 2 to A-main)
Heat 1 118 Robby Crabtree, Clyde, 5 Tad Reutzel, Burt, Ia.
Heat 2 58 Sid Kiphen, Gatesville, 9 Kevin Rutherford, Flower Mound
Heat 3 55 Justin Shaw, Sweetwater, 80 Mike Easterwood, Sundown
Heat 4 690 Todd Bartlett, Abilene, 166 Johnny Torres, San Antonio
Heat 5 15 Kevin Green, Robinson, 20 Ronnie Welborn, Princeton
Heat 6 26 Dean Abbey, Haslet, 37 Cody Leonard, Sinton
Davis Does It in I-Stock
Eunice, New Mexico’s Cory Davis didn’t lead much of the 20-car, 20-lap IMCA Stock Car feature, but he led the most important part, the last lap. Shane Priddy grabbed the lead early and looked like he might use his home track advantage for the win. Davis battled with Jason Batt before taking over second and closing up on Priddy under caution. Davis tried the top side several times and got the bumper ahead at one point only to be spoiled by a late caution. Davis again jumped outside of Priddy, while Keith White lurked in third. It was door to door the final lap for the lead with White looking to go three wide coming off turn 4 it was Davis edging out Priddy and White at the line.
Cory Davis took the I-Stock feature. Debbie Johnson photo.
As green flew on the IMCA Stock Car feature it was Priddy getting a good jump out front trailed by Killen, Damon Murty, Jason Batt and Angel Munoz. Killen slipped high in the corner allowing Batt and Murty to get past. Davis was making his charge to the front getting fifth from Munoz on lap 2. Killen went around in turn 4 and stopped on the front straight for a lap 3 caution.
Back under green Batt, Davis and Murty were three wide for second with Davis getting the position on lap 6. Jeff Turner caught Munoz for sixth and after a brief side by side battle took the spot. Munoz tried to come back as he, Murty and Turner went three abreast for fourth. Munoz and Turner were still side by side on lap 8 while White made his way up to sixth.
Batt and Davis were battling for second coming to halfway when yellow waved for a spin by JC Howell in turn 4. Priddy got a four car length advantage on the restart, while Davis retook second from Batt. At halfway it was Priddy, Davis, Batt, Munoz and Murty in the top five. Davis began looking outside on Priddy for the lead on lap 12, but fell back in line. Davis took the high road again on lap 14, while White and Murty ran door to door for fifth.
Lap 15 saw White, Murty and Munoz three wide for fourth with White getting the spot. Davis, on the top, got along side Priddy on lap 16 with a dead heat at the line on lap 17. As the leaders scrapped it out, White got under Batt for third. Davis got the nose out front on lap 18, but caution for spins by Murty and David Phillips negated the pass.
When green waved again Davis was back up top, and running side by side with Priddy, with White waiting to pounce on any mistake. Coming to take the white flag it was anyone’s call on who was leading as the two continue to run together. Behind them Howell was charging back, with positions changing nearly every turn. Coming to the checkers it was Davis in the Davis Repair Service, Mendoza Motorsports, 5 Star Inn, Cardinal Hardware, Valentine Auto, Victory Services, Centex Motorsports, Medieval Chassis edging out Priddy for the win.
“It was a lot of hard work to get that win,” explained Davis. “We committed to running the top before the race and try to run them down. That’s what I did all night long, was stay up there and passed him(Priddy) at the end.”
“After having that first pass negated because of the caution I was even more determined to get back by him. We knew we had a real fast car and I knew if I did before, that I could do it again. You just have the tires heated up again, I made the move, it stuck and I was able to win the race.”
“The Modifieds and Sportmods were running a half lane and it was working them. In turns 1-2 the top was real good I had the kept the left rear as close to the middle as I could where it was rubbering up. The shock package we had on last night was awesome.”
IMCA Stock Cars
28 Cory Davis, Eunice, NM
77 Shane Priddy, Abilene
10 Keith White, Academy
103 JC Howell, Mabank
91 Jason Batt, Harker Heights
19 Angel Munoz, Lamar, Colo
44 Jeff Turner, Seagoville
182 Adam Schwarz, Waco
501 Matt Guillaume, Tomball
38 Richard Vogt, Fairfield, Ia.
07 Dennis Bissonnette, Stephenville
311 Kyle Clough, Wallace, Nebr
100 Doug Kennemer, Boyd
18 David Phillips, Abilene
20 Brandon Clough, Wallace, Nebr.
22 Billy Wade, San Angelo
221 Duain Pritchett, Combine
99 Damon Murty, Chelsea, Ia
81 Don Killen, Des Moines, Ia.
55 Mart Wampler, Snyder
IMCA Stock Car B-mains(Top 4 to A-main)
B-main #1 10 Keith White, Academy, 103 Jason Adcock, San Angelo, 18 David Phillips, Abilene, 311 Kyle Clough, Wallace, Nebr.
B-main #2 07 Dennis Bissonnette, Stephenville, 22 Billy Wade, San Angelo, 100 Doug Kennemer, Boyd, Brandon Clough, Wallace, Nebr.
IMCA Stock Car heats(Top 2 to A-main)
Heat 1 77 Shane Priddy, Abilene, 99 Damon Murty, Chelsea, Ia.
Heat 2 44 Jeff Turner, Seagoville, 38 Richard Vogt, Fairfield, Ia.
Heat 3 182 Adam Schwarz, Waco, 28 Cory Davis, Eunice, NM.
Heat 4 81 Don Killen, Des Moines, Ia., Angel Munoz, Lamar, Colo.
Heat 5 221 Duain Pritchett, Combine, 55 Mart Wampler, Snyder
Heat 6 501 Matt Guillaume, Tomball, 91 Jason Batt, Harker Heights
Anderson on the Attack for Hobby Stock Honors
Multi-time IMCA Hobby Stock champion, Shannon Anderson (Des Moines, Ia.) showed why he’s a champion. Anderson again had to work his way through the pack to catch last night’s runner up John Watson. Using the high line, Anderson drove around Watson for the lead on lap 15, but Watson wasn’t ready to give. Watson kept digging on the bottom getting along side Anderson on lap 17 and 18. Adam Armstrong, who edged Watson last night, joined the battle on the last lap. Anderson eked out the win over Watson who he shares a shop with.
Shannon Anderson drove his Hobby Stock to the Icebreaker win. Debbie Johnson photo.
Watson led the pack into turn 1 at the start of the 20-car, 20-lap IMCA Hobby Stock feature. It was three wide for second behind him and after some beatin’ and bangin’ Jeremy Carter, Bryan Sewell, Chase Neill and Anderson sorted themselves out. Anderson then picked off Neill for fourth followed by Armstrong to fifth. As Anderson and Sewell battled, Armstrong was able sneak past both on lap 5.
Anderson was able to get by Sewell and retake the spot from Armstrong and started looking high on Carter for second. As Anderson and Carter slugged it for second, Watson was able to distance himself. Carter got crossed up and lost several spots, but caught a break when Brian Stich hit a tire and took a trip through the infield for a lap 9 yellow.
On the restart coming to halfway it was Watson, Carter, Anderson, Armstrong and Sewell in the top five. Jon Grindstaff brought out the yellow after contact and spin with David Bissonnette. The ensuing restart saw Anderson get along side and by Carter for second, again trailed by Armstrong to third a lap later. Anderson got to the bumper of Watson on lap 12 and was looking outside on lap 14.
Anderson grabbed the top spot on lap 15 with Watson trying to dive back under. The two were side by side on laps 17 and 18, with Armstrong now waiting for a mistake on the last lap. The two fought it out to the line with Anderson in the Johns Tree Service, Supreme Lawn & Landscaping, Outlaw Racing, Supreme Quarter Horses, Immel Farms, Sanborn Auto, Nutz Graphics & Vinyl, JR Motorsports, Grandma & Grandpa Anderson, Quick Performance, Victory Chassis.
“I came through on the bottom early to get to fourth then for into third passing (Bryan)Sewell.” replied Anderson. “I caught (Jermey)Carter and worked on trying to find a way by him. I got above him and we got together a little in three but luckily the yellow came out and restacked us. Lining up in third I made the decision that I wasn’t going to stay on the bottom like I did last night. I moved to the top and got by Carter and went back to bottom to catch Watson. I knew the top wasn’t there in 3 and 4 so i waited to make the pass in(turns) 1 and 2. Watson and I have our cats in the same shop together in Des Moines and I wasn’t sure if I would be able to get the win tonight with him starting on the pole and Adam Armstrong starting in the second row . Everything just went right during the feature tonight to make up for my (bad) draw .”
“I have had some bad luck drawing this weekend with 12th starting spot last night and 10th tonight. With the competition down here it’s hard to get through the field. Friday night I felt like I could have won if I would of moved to the top quicker. It was a good learning experience that helped me get the win tonight. One of the biggest changes for me this year was switching to a Victory Chassis. I drove a Terminator my first three years in a hobby and had a lot of success. Then the last two years I’ve been in a Big Daddy. I switched to a Victory Chassis this winter. I was highly impressed in my hot lap sessions Thursday practice and then last night coming through the feature. It feels like the car is getting faster every lap I’m getting more comfortable in the car. These cars are amazing and I can drive it anywhere, on any track conditions . Randy Havlik and Mark Elliott have designed a really good car. Victory Chassis and JR Motorsports have a good thing going up there and I think they’re going have a lot of success this year with all of their cars.”
“I would like to thank my wonderful girlfriend, Ashley, for letting me come down here. She puts up with a lot of this racing stuff and thanks to my mom and dad, Ed Sorensen, Mike Kim and Ally Anderson”
IMCA Hobby Stocks
78 Shannon Anderson, Des Moines, Ia.
4 John Watson, Des Moines, Ia.
6 Adam Armstrong, Beatrice, Nebr.
25 Jeremy Carter, Joshua
144 Bryan Sewell, Seagoville
1 Chase Neill, Ft. Worth
0 Rodney Sparks, Hawley
27 Chase Parson, Abilene
56 Justin Cass, Abilene
18 Jim Hall, Jackson, Nebr
94 Todd Gereau, Sioux City, Ia.
10 Taylor Bellomy, Brighton, Colo.
34 Tracy Haynes, Willow Park
85 David Bissonnette, Stephenville
15 Terry Comer III, Hawley
21 Aaron Elliott, Hawley
121 Brian Stich, Topeka, Kan.
17 Jon Grindstaff, Venus
46 Billy Taylor, Gatesville
IMCA Hobby Stock B-main(Top 8 to A-main)
21 Aaron Elliott, Hawley, 18 Jim Hall, Jackson, Nebr., 10 Taylor Bellomy, Brighton, Colo., 46 Billy Taylor, Gatesville, 34 Tracy Haynes, Willow Park, 15 Terry Comer III, Hawley, 56 Justin Cass, Abilene, 62 Johnathon Davis, Sweetwater
IMCA Hobby Stock heats(Top 3 to A-main)
Heat 1 Adam Armstrong, Beatrice, Nebr, 121 Brian Stitch, Topeka, Kan., 0 Rodney Sparks, Hawley
Heat 2 4 John Watson, Des Moines, 85 David Bissonnette, Stephenville, 25 Jeremy Carter, Joshua
Heat 3 144 Bryan Sewell. Seagoville. 1 Chase Neill, Fort Worth, 94 Todd Gereau, Sioux City, Ia.
Heat 4 78 Shannon Anderson, Des Moines,Ia., 96 Jamie Songer, Ankeny, Ia., 17 Jon Grindstaff, Venus
Kristenek Captures Street Stocks
In a race that it might appear no one wanted to win, Littlefield’s Scott Kristenek decided he wanted it. Early leader Justin Lewis had trouble and pulled off while leading under caution. Ken Boatman, who took a birthday win last night was unable to hold the point spinning himself out from the lead. Dustin McGaha looked to be the winner in the later stages but gave way to Kristenek on the last lap.
Street Stocks
44 Scott Kristenek, Littlefield
111 Dustin McGaha, Hawley
67 Tony Marcum, San Angelo
77 Jason Parker, Hamlin
124 Ryan Wilkerson, Midland
75 Ken Boatman, Bullard
8 Billy Lindsey, Merkel
66 Michael Bowen
500 William McNeely, Hamlin
27 Brandy Hamlin,
82 Richard Wells, Pleasanton
28 Jayson Garner, Hamlin
15 William Malloy, San Angelo
83 Chris Brock, Elmendorf
183 Justin Lewis, Whiteface
444 Luke Lindsey, Granbury
21 Jaxon Elliott, Hawley
71 n/a
1 John Rister, Anson
223 Clint Pelzel, Miles—DNS
Street Stock heat winners; 44 Scott Kristenek, Littlefield, 75 Ken Boatman, Bullard, 111 Dustin McGaha
Calton Pritchett again swept the Jr, Mini Stocks easily winning the heat and feature races. Pritchett’s only hiccup was a lazy spin while to pass a lapped car, but with a half-track lead, he was able to recover and cruise to his second weekend win..
Jr Mini Stocks
12 Calton Pritchett, Combine
00 Jesney Reagan, Abilene
31 Kody Priddy, Abilene
01 Shelly Lusk, Merkel
26 Tylan Davis, Sweetwater
13 Madison Pillow, Cisco—DNS
Jr Mini Stock heat winner; Calton Pritchett, Combine
Charles Stevens took the Pure Stock win by default after both Taylor Johnson and Eddie Rose broke and were unable to finish.
Pure Stocks
57 Charles Stevens
33 Eddie Rose, Cross Plains
44 Taylor Johnson, Cross Plains
By J M Hallas
Sustaire, Hertel, Phillips, Armstrong, Boatman, Pritchett power to Icebreaker wins
February 25, 2012
Fridays race with the first of three separate one-day shows for all four IMCA classes(Modifieds, Sportmods, Stock Cars and Hobby’s), plus the Street Stocks and Jr. Mini Stocks. Saturday and Sunday’s show are the first of the Lone Star Series events for that tours championship.
Sustaire Swipes Modified Main
An infield tire on the track slowed the action on lap 6. On the restart Iverson tried the top of McGuire giving up the spot to Brewer, while Gustin blasted his way up to third. Iverson finally got the top to work and went past McGuire for the lead on lap 7. Brewer, staying low, was able to dig under Iverson for the lead on lap 8, while Gustin clipped an infield tire knocking the front end out, and pulling to the infield.
Coming to the crossed flags it was now Brewer, McGaha, Iverson, Sustaire and White cracking the top five. Brewer did a half spin, in front of the pack, after a tap by McGaha for a lap 10 yellow. McGaha was sent to the back for the restart that saw Sustaire on the low side and Iverson on top both sail by Brewer.
Sustaire secured the lead on lap 11, with Iverson, Brewer, White and McGuire in pursuit. Sustaire stretched out his lead as Brewer and Iverson battled for second and White lurking in fourth. Brewer took second back from Iverson on lap 15 with White following to third. Monte Bolton had problems after contact with Andy Gage and stopped on the front stretch for a lap 16 caution.
Once back to green it was Sustaire, Brewer and White breaking away as Iverson began to fade moving McGuire and Danny Hogue up to fourth and fifth. Sustaire held the line and was able to capture the checkers in his new Sustaire Plumbing, Darby Diesel Repair, KR Motorsports, Parker Real Estate, TL Motorsports, Bent Tree Motel, Racinwithneal.com, All-star Graphics, Afco, Smileys, Machine Works powered, Addiction Chassis.
“We were real happy with the new car,” commented Sustaire. “It’s our eighth race on it and Brian has a good baseline set up for it. We got some good information from JR and combined it with our stuff. It all just kind of came together.”
“I knew on that restart that (Tyler) Iverson would go high and (Charles) Brewer would try to protect the bottom. Brewer pushed up a little and left the bottom open and I made my move to the front. I wasn’t too worried about getting passed on that late restart. The track was pretty used up and if I just hit my marks, stayed on the bottom, no one would be able to go by up top.”
“We didn’t go into this weekend with too high of expectations, just hoping for top fives. We’re going to run the Lone Star Series and used tonight and practice on Thursday as a tune up for that. I got a lot of help from my dad to get ready. We were pressed for time and he helped out around the shop after slowing down the past couple years.”
IMCA Modified results
72 Charles Brewer, Abilene
1 Keith White, Academy
9 Pat McGuire, Belton
69 Danny Hogue, Abilene
7 Vince Ogle, Lubbock
23 Chris Elliott, Eastland
99 Tristan Sikes, Eunice, NM
37 Bill Pittaway, Corpus Christi
52 John Gober, Poolville
161 Bob Sikes, Eunice, NM
444 Joe Spillman, Marble Falls
21 Jason Borlace, San Antonio
29 Jamie Campbell, Adkins
90 Tommy Fain, Abilene
98Tyler Iverson, Brainard, Nebr.
41 Monte Bolton, Lubbock
021 Andy Gage, Whiting, Ia.
911 Josh McGaha, Abilene
19 Jimmy Gustin, Marshalltown, Ia.IMCA Modified B-mains(Top 4 to A-main)
B-main #1 021 Andy Gage, Whiting, Ia., 90 Tommy Fain, Abilene, 52 John Gober, Poolville, 29 Jamie Campbell, Adkins
B-main #2 69 Danny Hogue, Abilene, 41 Monte Bolton, Lubbock, 161 Bob Sikes, Eunice, NM, 23 Chris Elliott, Eastland
Heat 1 911 Josh McGaha, Abilene, 19 Jimmy Gustin, Marshalltown, Ia.
Heat 2 444 Joe Spillman, Marble Falls, 98 Tyler Iverson, Brainard, Nebr.
Heat 3 99 Triston Sikes, Eunice, NM., 1 Keith White, Academy
Heat 4 72 Charles Brewer, Abilene, 37 Bill Pittaway, Corpus Christi
Heat 5 9 Pat McGuire, Belton, 7 Vince Ogle, Lubbock
Heat 6 71 Kevin Sustaire, Emory, 21 Jason Borlace, San AntonioHertel Hustles to Sportmod Sweep
Back to green, Hertel got away clean while Poor took second from Roberts. Jesse Sobbing took a ride through the infield, while Cameron Winegar tagged a tire for a lap 3 caution. Hertel and Poor edged ahead on green with Roberts and Mueller swapping third. Mueller finally got the spot while Doug Easterling got fifth from Stephen Robison.
The dreaded infield tire caused another caution on lap 5 getting kicked on the track. As the top three broke away, Abbey got past Robison for sixth. Mueller went to the top and worked his way around Poor for second. Coming to halfway it was Hertel, Mueller, Poor, Easterling and Abbey in the top five. Abbey, Easterling and Poor were three wide for third on lap 11 with Abbey getting the spot.
Up front the lead duo was hitting traffic allowing to close in quickly, while James Blaylock made the top ten after starting in the back. Hertel diced through slower cars, while Poor and Easterling split a lapped car three wide. Lap 17 saw yellow slow the pace, again for an infield tire on the track. Hertel got a good restart and got a slight bit of breathing room on Mueller by two car lengths.
With two to go Kevin Rutherford went around on the front stretch to bring out a yellow and restack the field. This time Mueller hung on to the bumper of Hertel for the final two laps, but couldn’t mount a serious challenge. At the checkers it was Hertel in the Graco Oilfield Services, PUR Champion, Showtime Signs & Designs, Fletcher Motorsports, Smileys Chassis taking the win.
“This is my biggest win ever at Abilene Speedway,” related Hertel. “I’ve never been able to win any of the big races here. There was plenty of bite off the corners and I just had to stay steady and smooth to hold everyone off. Matt(Mueller) is tough to beat here. He’s a good driver and track champion.”
“We’re looking for more the same the rest of the weekend. We’ve got a good set up and our car is pretty good. A lot of it will be the luck of the draw, especially on Sunday.”
“I’m a firm believer that if you’re going to do something, you’ve got to do it right. I’m in my shop just about 24/7, and always doing something on the car. We looked at this as just another race weekend and did our normal routine.”
IMCA Southern Sportmods
59 Chad Hertel, Abilene
38 Matt Mueller, Stamford
26 Dean Abbey, Haslet
48 Bradley Poor, Abilene
7 Stephen Robison, Abilene
88 Doug Easterling, Rule
12 James Blaylock, Okla
223 Nick Roberts
766 Shane Priddy, Abilene
5 Tad Reutzel, Burt, Ia
166 Johnny Torres, San Antonio
20 Ronnie Welborn, Princeton
58 Sid Kiphen, Gatesville
511 Cory Williams, Slaton
95 Steve Hayes, Eastland
690 Todd Bartlett, Abilene
37 Cody Leonard, Sinton
29 Cameron Winegar
118 Robby Crabtree, Clyde
98 Bret Sheppard, Malvern, Ia
9 Kevin Rutherford
19 David Elliott, Eastland
55 Justin Shaw, Sweetwater
999 Jesse Sobbing, Glenwood, Ia.
IMCA Southern Sportmod B-mains(Top 4 to A-main)
B-main #2 58 Sid Kiphen, Gatesville, 9 Kevin Rutherford, 118 Robby Crabtree, Clyde, 5 Tad Reutzel, Burt, Ia.
IMCA Southern Sportmod heats(Top 2 to A-main)
Heat 1 88 Doug Easterling, Rule, 690 Todd Bartlett, Abilene,
Heat 2 20 Ronnie Welborn, Princeton, 511 Cory Williams, Slaton
Heat 3 59 Chad Hertel, Abilene, David Elliott, Eastland
Heat 4 48 Bradley Poor, Abilene, 55 Justin Shaw, Sweetwater
Heat 5 223 Nick Roberts, 38 Matt Mueller, Stamford
Heat 6 7 Stephen Robison, Abilene, 98 Bret Sheppard, Malvern, Ia
Phillips Fast in I-Stock Thriller
Yellow waved on lap 2 for debris after Kenneth Graves bounced off the back wall and stopped by the hot pit. Once back to green to top four pulled ahead while Jason Adcock took fifth from Brendan Silts. Coming through the field, Jeff Turner and Damon Murty were on the charge moving to sixth and seventh. As Phillips put some distance on Killen, White got past Guillaume for third.
Just before halfway, caution came out for the trunk off Lewis Hammond’s car. Back under green Phillips inched away from Killen, while Turner and Adcock ran side by side, with Murty and JC Howell door to door behind them. White closed the gap on Killen while Guillaume, Adcock and Turner slugged it out for fourth.
Billy Wade brought out a yellow going for a spin after contact with Silts on lap 18. As green waved again, Phillips and Killen stayed together with Killen getting underneath in turn 4. It was side by side down the front stretch and into turn 1. Phillips was off turn 2 with Killen in tow and got a little pressure in turn 4. Phillips in the Golden Chick, Abilene Powder Coating, 4D Electric, A City Speed, C&M Farms, Showtime Signs & Designs, Fletcher Motorsports, Big Johns Chassis, hung on for the victory.
“This is a little redemption after losing the Southern Challenge last year,” replied Phillips. “I was excited to finish up front since we started in the same position as the Challenge, and had the same clutch issue during practice. I’ve been racing here for 7 years and this is my biggest win here. It’s nice having two of the bigger shows in Texas at my home track since we don’t travel much.”
“I felt him(Killen) back there on those final laps. I missed my marks in (turns) 3-4 and saw him get inside me. We gave each other all the room that we needed and I was able to hang on. I enjoy the tough competition that these two big shows bring down here. It was cool that Keith(White) pulled up along side to congratulate me.”
“I just try to run my own race and not worry what anyone else is doing. If they’re going to pass me, I hope they’ll do it clean. I’d like to get 3 wins this weekend, but if I can have a good weekend and not tear up the car, it will be successful enough for us.”
IMCA Stock Cars
18 David Phillips, Abilene
81 Don Killen, Des Moines, Ia.
10 Keith White, Academy
501 Matt Guillaume, Tomball
156 Jason Adcock, San Angelo
103 JC Howell, Mabank
99 Damon Murty, Chelsea, Ia.
44 Jeff Turner, Seagoville
221 Duain Pritchett, Combine
28 Cory Davis, Eunice, NM
20 Brandon Clough
69 Kirk Martin, Aledo
22 Billy Wade, San Angelo
122 Bill Brzezinski, Roby
110 Nyle Godwin, Redfield, Ia.
29 Brendan Silts
169 Lewis Hammond, Midland
182 Adam Schwarz
50 Terry Wojtek, Sterling City
4 Kenneth Graves, Tahoka
IMCA Stock Car B-mains(Top 4 to A-main)
B-main #1 156 Jason Adcock, San Angelo, 22 Billy Wade, San Angelo, 169 Lewis Hammond, Midland, 69 Kirk Martin, Aledo
B-main #2 221 Duain Pritchett, Combine, 28 Cory Davis, Eunice, NM., 103 JC Howell, Mabank, 182 Adam Schwarz
IMCA Stock Car heats(Top 2 to A-main)
Heat 1 20 Brandon Clough, 110 Nyle Godwin, Redfield, Ia.
Heat 2 10 Keith White, Academy, 99 Damon Murty, Chelsea, Ia.
Heat 3 18 David Phillips. Abilene, 29 Brendan Silts
Heat 4 50 Terry Wojtek, Sterling City, 122 Bill Brzezinski, Roby
Heat 5 501 Matt Guillaume, Tomball, 4 Kenneth Graves, Tahoka
Heat 6 81 Don Killen, Des Moines, Ia., 44 Jeff Turner, Seagoville
Armstrong Aces Hobby Stocks
Beatrice Nebraska’s Adam Armstrong made the long trip south pay off in the 20-car IMCA Hobby Stock feature. John Watson broke out front at the start of the 20-lapper and built a good lead over Armstrong who moved to second early. Watson looked to have the race well in hand, until the lead duo caught the back of the pack. Armstrong moved to the top, while Watson stuck to the bottom and got hung up with a slower car. Armstrong would the lead the final five laps to grab the victory.
Watson eased out front as green dropped on the IMCA Hobby Stock feature trailed by Sonny O’Hair, Armstrong, Justin Cass and Jamie Songer. Armstrong quickly dispensed of O’Hair while David Bissonnette worked his way up to the top five, and Hobby Stock champ, Shannon Anderson making his way through the pack. Cass picked off third from O’Hair, with Anderson now on his bumper.
At the mid-point it was Watson and Armstrong with big leads, Cass, Anderson and O’Hair in the top five. Watson caught the back of the pack on lap 12 and had Armstrong sneaking up. As they ran up on slower cars running side by side, Watson tried low, while Armstrong went up top. Watson got together with the slower car as Armstrong went three wide around them for the lead.
Aaron Elliott expired a motor on lap 16 for the races only caution and re-racked the field. Armstrong and Watson eased ahead while Anderson battled with Cass for third. Anderson got the spot with two to go, as Armstrong, in the Jet Racing, A 1st Rate Pumping Service, Auto Zone, Extreme Motorsports, Schmidt Machine, Twin Rivers Dodge, shop built car ran on to the checkers.
“I don’t know if I had anything for him(Watson),” said Armstrong. “He was better in (turns) 3-4, while I was better in 1-2. He’s tough and if it wouldn’t have been for lapped traffic he probably would have won. He chose the bottom, no one was up top so I tried there. We made some contact with the lapped cars getting through, but I was able to get the lead.”
“We were down here last year, picked up a win and a couple of seconds. I like traveling around to different tracks and was looking forward to coming back down here again. Our season doesn’t start until late March and I was looking to get a jump on things with a new car and new motor.”
“I usually run Beatrice(Nebr.) on Friday night, then Minneapolis(Kan.) on Saturday. Both are 3/8 mile tracks where this is a ¼ mile. I really enjoy this racing on a smaller, tighter track. This is the first chance I’ve had to run against four-time national champion, Shannon Anderson.”
IMCA Hobby Stocks
6 Adam Armstrong, Beatrice, Nebr.
4 John Watson, Des Moines, Ia.
78 Shannon Anderson, Des Moines, Ia.
56 Justin Cass, Abilene
25 Jeremy Carter, Joshua
85 David Bissonnette, Stephenville
11 Bud Ohliger, Abilene
96 Jamie Songer, Ankeny, Ia.
17 John Grindstaff, Venus
34 Tracy Haynes, Willow Park
27 Chase Parson, Abilene
15 Terry Comer III, Hawley
18 Jim Hall, Jackson, Nebr
777 Tom Love, Jackson, Nebr.
0 Rodney Sparks, Hawley
46 Billy Taylor, Gatesville
21 Aaron Elliott, Hawley
1 Chase Neill, Joshua
2 Sonny O’Hair
10 Taylor Bellomy
IMCA Hobby Stock B-main(Top 8 to A-main)
18 Jim Hall, Jackson, Nebr., 17 John Grindstaff, Venus, 0 Rodney Sparks, Hawley, 25 Jeremy Carter, Joshua, 15 Terry Comer III, Hawley, 27 Chase Parson, Abilene, 21 Aaron Elliott, Hawley, 777 Tom Love, Jackson, Nebr.
IMCA Hobby Stock heats(Top 3 to A-main)
Heat 1 78 Shannon Anderson, Des Moines, 4 John Watson, Des Moines, 2 Sonny O’Hair
Heat 2 85 David Bissonnette, Stephenville, 10 Taylor Bellomy, Chase Neill, Joshua
Heat 3 56 Justin Cass, Abilene, 96 Jamie Songer, Ankeny, Ia, 46 Billy Taylor, Gatesville
Heat 4 6 Adam Armstrong, Beatrice, Nebr., 34 Tracy Haynes, Willow Park, 11 Bud Ohliger, Abilene
Boatman Takes Street Stock Birthday Bash
Ken Boatman(Whitehouse) celebrated his birthday how every racer wishes he could, with a pair of checkered flags. Boatman took his heat race win, then fought his way to get the lead from Luke Lindsey, in the feature. Boatman had to pass L. Lindsey twice after his first shot at the lead was negated by a poorly timed caution. Not to be denied, Boatman shot past L. Lindsey on the ensuing restart, and pulled away to take the victory.
Street Stocks
75 Ken Boatman, Whitehouse
83 Chris Brock
82 Richard Wells
444 Luke Lindsey, Granbury
44 Scott Kristinek, Littlefield
223 Clint Pelzel, Miles
183 Justin Lewis
500 William McNeely, Hamlin
124 Ryan Wilkerson, Midland
66 Michael Bowen, Merkel
1 John Rister, Anson
11 Tom McGaha, Hawley
21 Jaxon Elliott, Hawley
15 William Malloy, San Angelo
011 Chris Pippin, McCaulley
28 Jayson Garner, Hamlin
8 Billy Lindsey, Merkel
67 Tony Marcum
77 Jason Parker, Hamlin
27 Brandy Hamlin, Abilene
86 Tanner Martin, Clyde—DNS
Street Stock heat winners, 444 Luke Lindsey, Granbury, 75 Ken Boatman, Whitehouse, 011 Chris Pippin, McCaulley
Pritchett Powers to Jr. Mini Stock Sweep
Calton Pritchett left little in doubt in the Jr. Mini Stock class easily running away to victories in the heat race and feature. Pritchett built comfortable margins in both races and was chased, from a distance, in the feature by Jesney Reagan and Shelly Lusk.
Jr. Mini Stocks
12 Calton Pritchett, Combine
00 Jesney Reagan, Abilene
01 Shelly Lusk, Merkel
13 Madison Pillow, Cisco
26 Tylan Davis, Sweetwater
31 Kody Priddy, Abilene
Jr. Mini Stock heat winner, 12 Calton, Pritchett, Combine
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