INTERESTED RACERS AND TRACKS REVIVE NORTHWEST
TOUR FOR 2007
January 17, 2007 – When NASCAR announced the demise of the Elite
Series at the end of the 2006 season, many racers, crews, sponsors
and tracks scrambled to keep the group alive in the Northwest.
Initial efforts were not as successful as many had hoped. On the
evening of January 13, 2007, a group of interested promoters, car
owners, fans and sponsors held a very successful meeting. Over 150
people enjoyed a night of an excellent banquet, an hour of open mike
discussion and bench racing and dancing until the wee hours.
Because of this varied group of interested parties and their
commitment and participation, the Northwest tour will continue in
2007 and beyond. Yakima Speedway has set three dates, Joe Doellefeld
at State Line Speedway signed up for two events. Garrett Evans from
Wenatchee Valley Super Oval has expressed an interest in a date and
another facility in the Northwest is considering the possibility of
two events. Five events are on the calendar with more hoped for in
the very near future.
Shasta Raceway Park has announced SRL events for 2007 with the
possibility of a Northwest, Southwest Shootout slated for October
20, 21, 2007. This will allow the Southwest and Northwest Tour teams
venues to utilize their existing equipment. It is the desire of both
groups to have cooperation between the racers to support both
efforts.
The overwhelming comment at the meeting was to keep the rules as
close as possible to the existing package for 2007, and to address
the costs etc. for 2008 and beyond. A competition committee was
formed at the meeting. Jim Milkelson, Melinda Moulaison and Gib
Repass were chosen to represent the series. Ron Bennett will be the
interim Series Administrator. Race day procedures will be handled by
Jim Mikelson and his crew.
Two companies gave pledges for a year end point fund. More funds
will be solicited as the program moves forward.
The Tour teams can now move forward with plans knowing that at least
five events are signed on and more are in the works. With the
Southwest dates and events in the North the teams will have ample
opportunity to use their equipment and race in a professional, well
run series.
As the hardworking group moves forward to make this happen, more
exciting announcements will be made. The five dates are firm and
more are expected and hoped for. Further news and dates will be
forthcoming shortly as contracts are signed and details are worked
out.
Contacts – Series administrator-
Ron Bennett –509 728-3768
racerron@elltel.net
Jim Mikelson –jimmikelson@wmconnect.com
Melinda Moulaison –
northwrac@aol.com
Gib Repass – gibrepass@aol.com
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