Page 2B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

ACS track information

Track Description: 1/2 mile, semi-banked oval dirt track Sanction: NASCAR Weekly Racing Series Average Car Count: 115 cars per night Featured Divisions: NASCAR Late Models, Modifieds, ProStocks, and Hobby Stocks Average Attendance: Over 2,000 fans each night Racing Season: Racing every Saturday night April through September, plus special events Special Events: MLRA Late Models, USMTS Modifieds and The Tradition. Others may be announced later. Amenities: Full concessions available including extensive food menu. Also Adams County Speedway and NASCAR souvenirs, free parking. Special Seating: Handicapped seating and parking available. Seat cushions with back-rests available for rent. Private decksCurrently sold out (names accepted for waiting list) Times: Saturday evenings Gates open 5 p.m. Racing 7 p.m. Location: Adams County Fairgrounds - Corning, Iowa (1 mile north of Highway 34 on Highway 148, then east on 12th St.) Ticket Prices: Grandstand Adults - $10 Grandstand 13-17 - $5 Grandstand 12 and under - Free Pits - NASCAR member - $20 Pits - Non-Members - $30 Special events prices may vary ACS marketing/promotions directors: Cliff Baldwin, Tony Hardisty, Ross Griffith, Jeff Skelton ACS Track Director: Ray Houck Telephone Numbers: Track (Race Day Only) - (641) 322-4184; office (Monday-Friday) (800) 358-2931

The Adams County Free Press welcomes you to another great season of racing action at the Adams County Speedway, where drivers, crews and fans swell the population of our proud community each week to take in the roar of engines and fast-paced excitement that has become so well known over the years. We decided this year to take a close look at the history of the Speedway, paying homage to the drivers, owners, mechanics and volunteers that have made the ACS such a success. Our work on this retrospective couldnt have been possible without the cooperation and assistance of the Adams County Fair and Racing Association and the many local and area businesses who support the Speedway and this special section. Happy racing! J. Wilson, editor

Start your engines!

April 17, 2010 Practice Day April 24, 2010 Opening Night - NASCAR Whelen All American Series May 1, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series May 8, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series May 15, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series May 22, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series May 29, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series June 5, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series June 12, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series June 19, 2010 Iowa State Savings Bank night with ISBEE June 26, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series July 3, 2010 Lucas Oil MLRA Late Models w/ NCRA & MARS co-sanctions NASCAR Whelen Support Classes July 10, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series July 17, 2010 STALKER CHERVOLET NIGHT - Whelen All American Series July 24, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series July 31, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series Aug 7, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series Aug 14, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series August 21, 2010 USMTS Modifieds w/ NASCAR Whelen Support Classes Aug 28, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series Sept 4, 2010 NASCAR Whelen All American Series Sept. 11, 2010 Final Points NightNASCAR Whelen All American Series

2010 ACS Schedule

Thanks to Bill Stuart, Donnie Willett, Dwight Jackson, Rick Bissell, Gail Hampel, Joe Zadina, Burton Heaton, Dave Miller and Fred Shearer for their indispensible help with compiling photographs for this issue.

The 2010 season brings a lot of changes here at the Adams County Speedway (ACS). First of all we would like to announce that R & S Auto Sales has come on board as the Speedways presenting sponsor. You will n o w h e a r , t h e Adams County Speedway presented by R & S Auto Sales. Roger and Sharon Sorensen have long time fans and supporters of the Speedway and we are very proud to have them as a partner. Next, we need to recognize the class sponsors; without these dedicated businesses we could not make this possible: The Chat Mobility Hobby Stocksthis will be the second year having Chat Mobility involved with the Speedway at this level. Northland Oil Pro Stocks Northland has been a longtime supporter at the Speedway, and you will find their oils and lubricants in several of the cars and equipment at the track. Poet Biorefinery Modifiedsa second year sponsor and a provider of bio fuels for your personal flex fuel vehicle that you use to travel to the races and also a provider of bio fuels for many cars competing here at the speedway. NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Late Models NASCAR and Whelen Engineering have partnered to bring some of the hottest Late Model action to the ACS. Now, we need to recognize the volunteers that make this all possible for each driver, crewmember and fan to enjoy. These people are members of the Adams County Fair and Racing Association: Tony Hardisty, Cliff

Welcome race fans to the Adams County Speedway!

The Adams County Free Press, Thrusday, April 22, 2009 Page 3B

Baldwin, Ross Griffith, Burton Heaton, Nancy Robards, Ron Helvie, Lawrence Petersen, Luis Avila, Randy Perrin, Virginia Perrin, Laurie Perrin, Shane Haffner, Brian Damewood, John Damewood, Scott Owens, Jessica Lewis, Karen Sharp, Jim Weichman, Clay Mercer, Jeff Skelton, Joe Wilson and Mike Brown. These volunteers devote several hours every week both during the regular season and the off-season. Without this great group of people this all would not be possible. These volunteers are very passionate about the Speedway, and their goal is to provide great family entertainment to you and to provide a great facility for the drivers to compete. Some other changes that have occurred this season are new faces both on and off of the track; first you will see a familiar face from turn #4 (Cliff Baldwin) in the grandstands. Cliff will be directing the operations and coordinating the nightly promotions. Bob Simmon will be at turn #4 assisting with line-ups and any other on track officiating. You will notice a new face in the flag stand, Jim Stannard, who will be the official controlling the races and making the calls from this position. Jim has a long history with dirt track racing, and we are pleased to have him with us this year. As we begin this new season I personally would like to wish every driver and crewmember good luck and would like to thank everyone for attending the races at the ACS. Without all of the volunteers, safety crew, drivers, crewmembers, and fans, this would not be possible. With that, remember that good sportsmanship is expected from not only the drivers and crew, but also the fans. Thanks, Tony Hardisty, Adams County Fair & Racing Association President

NASCAR, Whelen Extend Relationship To 2019

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) and Whelen Engineering, Inc., have announced an extension that will see Whelen remain as the entitlement sponsor for three of NASCARs developmental series through the 2019 racing season. During the last five seasons, Whelen has been an invaluable partner for NASCAR in advancing both grassroots racing and key regional tours, said George Silbermann, NASCAR managing director of racing operations. The commitment that Whelen has made to the future of these series is unprecedented, and it is a partnership that will continue to flourish for many years to come. The extension means Whelen, which became an entitlement sponsor in 2004, is the longest running current entitlement contract for any of NASCARs series. Whelen understands the value of short track racing, both to the future of NASCAR and the fan. Short track racing is the foundation of NASCAR and it provides affordable and exciting entertainment for racing fans of all ages in their local neighborhoods, said Phil Kurze, Whelen vice president for motorsports. Whelen is proud to be associated with local short track racing and the Modified Tours and as long as fans continue to sup-

port Whelen we will continue to support the most entertaining racing in all of motorsports. NASCAR short track racing has a friend and a sponsor for the decade. The NASCAR Whelen Modified and NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tours are the only two open-wheel series

under the NASCAR banner. The Whelen Modified Tour traces its roots back to the very first NASCAR race, held in Daytona Beach, Fla. in 1948. Many of the early NASCAR racecars were modified and the division evolved from there. Today, these unique racecars remain wildly popular along the Eastern Seaboard. The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour competes primarily in the Northeast while the NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour races throughout the Southern states. The NASCAR Whelen AllAmerican Series is comprised of a network of more than 50 racetracks across North America. NASCAR-sanctioned short track races are held on dirt and asphalt tracks of all shapes and sizes. A national championship is awarded, along with U.S. state and Canadian province championships, rookies of the year, and track championships.

Page 4B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

By J. Wilson Free Press Editor Though the half-mile flat track at the Adams County Fairgrounds was familiar with the sounds of cheering fans, rooting on their favorite horses since at least the 1920s and 1930s, it was a different kind of horsepower that would blossom in Adams County. The first auto races to round the track in Adams County took place in 1929 and 1930, with Scott Auto Racers, based in Kansas City, providing thrills through this exciting new sport. After this, car racing in Adams County lay dormant until 1952 when organizers of the Adams County Fair ushered in the modern era of engine revving action. Hot Rod Races debuted on Sunday, Aug. 10, 1952 at the 68th Annual Adams County Fair. Twenty-six cars raced in seven events before a reported crowd of 2,500 spectators, and a new era was born. There were two crashes, but no serious injuries on that first day at the track. With the Kent Volunteer Fire Department handling the administrative details of the event,

A look back at Adams Countys hot rod racing

Bob Ward of Creston stood out on the track. He turned in the best qualifying time33.9 seconds, and won the trophy dash, fast heat and 10-mile feature race. Not bad, but a far cry from the sub-21 second times that todays Late Models can post. The 1952 fair also included harness racing, and horses and cars would coexist for some time, but in the 1960s, auto racings popularity would take over. Glen Miller and Harry Morgan were the main ones to get [the track] going, said Wendell Bell, who worked on the Anderson Miller Oil Company-owned #66 car driven by Dale Johnson. They rounded up a bunch of cars that would run and sold them for $50 and everybody tore them down and put in roll bars. It was a flat track, dirty and dusty pretty crude. It was a lot of fun. In 1968, the tracks front stretch was declared unsafe to both drivers and spectators, and the roar of speeding engines would fall silent for a time. The front stretch wall was repaired in 1969 to bring back the races. In 1970, the flat track was banked and racing would continue to grow in popularity. Throughout the 70s, the Fair Board handled the majority of racing events, but it was in 1983 that Gail Hampel of Nodaway took on the promotion duties, taking the Adams County Speedway to the next level. Hampel acquired a NASCAR sanction in 1984, and racers suddenly became part of something bigger than local bragging rights. Popularity of the sport continued to grow and through the cooperation of Hampel and the Fair Board, the facilities saw regular improvement. Upgrades in seating, front stretch and infield safety and the scorers tower were all completed. In 1996, the concession building was torn down and replaced by new facilities doubling their size, while 15 VIP observation decks were built. Popularity of the VIP seating demanded the addition of 42 more, all

available to season ticket holders. In 2004, Adams County Speedway brought in a fourth class of racecars. Hobby Stocks joined Late Models, Street Stocks and Modifieds, and increased the average weekly car count to 110. The installation of MUSCO lighting and the use of AMB transponders for scoring in recent years have helped to distinguish the Speedway as one of the finest dirt tracks in the state of Iowa. Heavy rains put a damper on the 2008 racing season, flooding the track to depths of six feet in the infield and counter-height in the main concessions. Determination, dollars and numerous volunteers put the season on track in June. At the end of the 2008 season, the Hampel family stepped down from their role as promoter26 years after taking the steering wheel. The promotion of Adams County Speedway then transitioned to the Adams County Fair and Racing Association, and under the direction of current Board President Tony Hardisty, races to the future.

The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010 Page 5B

Page 6B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

My dad Jack Zadina was racing at Adams County Speedway (ACS) in the 70s in an old coupe. ACS had started a stock car class in 1976 and he made one of those. He lost his life at the track that year in a rollover; I was 10 years old at the time. That was the end of the racing for a few years until mom met Bob, he had been racing stock cars in the late 70s. Anyway Mom got married to Bob and us kids started to help Bob on his car. Bobs best friend Ross Griffith also helped on the car at this time. Bob raced until the early 80s eventually working into the late models, but at that time the late model rules were changing weekly. Tires were getting bigger and softer and you couldnt build a spoiler fast or big enough so he ended up getting out of the racing altogether. By this time I was getting out of school and went out west and worked for a couple of years, and racing was pretty much over with. Brother Bill was starting to dabble in the street

In the words of a champion

stock class at ACS in the mid 80s and when I came back I helped him out some, not much though. I did start to hang out with some old school mates and one of them was helping Tim Cooney work on his Modified. The first time I hung out down at the shop was after a Saturday night show at ACS, they were changing motors to run an asphalt race at I70 on Sunday. I hung out there all night and when they loaded up to go Sunday morning, they said I just as well go with them, so I jumped in the truck and have been working on race cars ever since. We would go just about anyplace to race. Tim was racing 4 nights a week at Osky, Audubon, ACS and Stuart. We also hit a lot of the old Busch All Star Tour races in the old Grand American Modified series that ran with them. Somewhere along those lines I started to help Dwight Jackson in his racing program. Dwight and his wife, Cheryl, were the owners, and a young hot shot out of the big town of Wiota named Mark Hansen was his driver. We went to Shelby County Speedway in Harlan and proceeded to win a couple of championships in 94 and 95, and a Western Iowa championship in 96. Dwights son was starting to get into carts, and ACS was thinking about adding the hobby stock a hobby stock to run at Audubon on Friday nights and I could run it at ACS on Saturday night, as he was an official there and couldnt drive on Saturdays. I won once and finished second in points in that first year. I started to get a little more constant in the hobby, and we had some sponsors on the car,

2009 Driver of the Year Joe Zadina tells about his start at the track

fith, Bobs buddy and one of our sponsors, came across a deal on a pro street. He said he would buy it if we wanted to move up a class, and Bill and I jumped at the opportunity. We had all we needed to be competitive racing. 2002 ACS Hobby Stock Sportsmanship Award 5 2006 ACS Pro-Street Feature wins 2006 ACS Pro-Street King of the Hill win 3 2007 ACS Pro-Street wins 3 2008 ACS Pro-Street wins 2008 Tradition win 2008 Pro-Street Sportsmanship Award at ACS 2009 ACS Pro-Street Track Championship 3 2009 ACS Pro-Street wins, 14 Top 5s, and 16 Top 10s out of 17 races 2009 Pro Street Hard Charger Ward 3 2009 Butler County Speedway wins 2009 Driver of the Year

class about this time. I was still helping Dwight and Cheryl, but Bill was thinking about building

winning a few races now and again. Around this time Ross Grif-

The Adams County Speedway (ACS) paid out nearly $43,000 to racers in the 2009 racing season while Joe Zadina captured both the Pro Street Championship and the This Week in

2009 awards mark successful season

Zadina had carried momentum from late 2008 success into 2009. You always want to improve from the previous year--win more races and maybe a championship once in a whilebut you have to enjoy yourself doing it, Zadina said. The only real problem we have is consistency. Consistency prevailed in 2009, with Zadina winning three Pro Street races, while logging 14 top five finishes, and 16 top ten

The Adams County Free Press,Thursday, April 22, 2009 Page 7B

Davison

Racing Driver of the Year Award. While Zadina (604 pts.) tore through the ACS Pro Streets, other championships went to Chris Spieker (317 pts.) topping the Barker Implement Late Models, Jeremy Tibben (549 pts.) besting the field in the Poet

Biorefining Modifieds and Trent Davison (562 pts.) winning the Chat Mobility Hobby Stocks. In a January 2010 ceremony, Joe Zadina was crowned both Pro Street Champion and Driver of the Year. Owned by Ross Griffith, the speedy #3 car is maintained by Bill Zadina and Zack Zadina, with help from from Dave and Cheryl Swartz, Todd Gufstason, Ellen Seaton and a host of friends, family and sponsors (Sunny Slope Salers, The Wilde Rooster Express, and Nuclear Sonics).

Tibben

finishes out of 17 races at ACS. The points were close all season

Spieker

long, said Zadina. Seven out of the top ten [finishers] in points won races in 2009, six of those more than once. The competition is always tough at Corning. We did not lead the points until August, and we happened to peak when it counted. The driver of the year award was just icing on the cake. ACS officials named longtime track announcer and radio show co-host Steve Cabbage the Citizen of the year for his 17 years of service. Voted on by fellow drivers and track officials, the 2009

Zadina

Sportsmanship Award winners were Paul Glendenning (Late Model), Dan Mueller (Modified), Steve Churchill (Pro Street) and Tom Myers (Hobby Stock). The Hard Charger award for passing the most cars in feature events throughout the season went to Late Model driver Leon Zeitner, Modified driver Spieker, Pro Street driver Zadina, and Hobby Stock driver Josh True. The Keane Thummel Trucking Best Appearing Car awards went to Troy McKee (Late Models), Todd Van Eaton (Modifieds), Kevin Sharp (pro streets), and Chris Vannausdle (Hobby Stocks). Most Improved Driver awards went to Ryan Vicker (Late Model), Derrick Hicks (Modified), Kevin Sharp (Pro Street), and True (Hobby Stocks). Craftsman Mechanic of the Year was awarded to Mitch Schwartzendruber for his service to both Leon Zeitner and Justin Zeitners late models.

Page 8B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

Originally published in the Adams County Free Press on August 17, 1928 Race fans at the fair this year were well pleased with the race program presented during the week. While the entries in some of the events were not numerous all the races were close and some fast time was made. There was a field of about 40 harness horses on the grounds and nearly that many runners. A.O. Haldeman of Malvern was the official judge and starter and his work was more than satisfactory. The opening race event of Tuesday afternoon was a three-year-ld pace that attracted four entries and all started. Nellie Scott, owned by F. A. Eberrhart of Jewell, Kan., won the race with SoBig second, L. B. Junior third and Judge Maxey fourth. The time was 2:18 1-4 and 2:19 14. The purse was $100. Marono J. won the 2:18

Race program at fair best in several years

trot Tuesday in straight heats. Worthy Mobel was second, Lady Expectation third and Peter J. Dillon fourth. The best time was 2:15 1-2. The purse was $250. In the half-mile run Monteco won, Mary Elizabeth won, Norbeck second and Torch Lady third. The time was 1:02 with a $75 purse. Wednesday Princess Dale won the three-year-old trot with Donna McGregor and Jennie B. tied for second and third. Francis Bingenwood Helen Harden second Don Cobb third and Don DeForrest fourth. The best time was 2:15 1-4 and the purse $250. Snap and Pop won the 3-8 mile dash, H. Hamilton second, Lawless third. The time was 36 seconds. King Bee

second and San Joe Bill third. Evening Idol, Ben S and Chet also ran. Time .50 1-2 and the purse was $50. In the five-eights run King Bee

and Trampwire tied for fourth and fifth. The best time was 2:20 1-4 with a $100 purse. A.L.B. won the 2:18 pace in straight heats.

won the mile run with Nebraska Boy second and Evening Idol third. Time .51 1-2. Norbeck won the three quarter mile run with Steve

second, Chet third. Time 1:18. Thursday in the 2:24 pace Doctor Star won first, Ezekiel second, Jennie C. third, Tilly Scott fourth and Don Cobb fifth. Best time 2:18 1-4. Prince Bondsman won the 2:14 trot with Martha Potempkin second, Roy Simmons third and Freddie Dale fourth. Best time 2:16. In the four and one-half furlongs run Monteco won first, Chet second and Mary Elizabeth third. Time .59. In the three quarter mile Derby Norbeck won first, Torch Lady second and Steve third. Time 1:18. Today, Friday a good race program is scheduled and weather permitting some fast events will be seen. The rain up to the time of our going to press Thursday night had not been heavy enough to muddy the track. With a clear morning the track will be in excellent condition.

Originally published in the Adams County Free Press on August 26, 1937 What, no rain! Tuesday afternoons crowd was pleasing to fair officials for opening day. For the first time in several years the weatherman forgot his usual opening day rain, as sunshine ruled over the fine looking grounds. One of the most surprising and encouraging features of the fair to date is the large number of racehorses here for the three days of $1,000 racing. Beginning as early as Saturday horses began streaming into the grounds, and by Monday afternoon some were turned down because of the large number. Approximately 60 head of racers are now on the grounds. Tuesdays races were about the best ever seen here on an opening day, with all four events closely contested. In the fairs opening race, five furlongs with a purse of $60, Benny B. came through

$1,000 purse in 1937 County Fair horse races

to win over the favorite For Me. The latter placed second, with Spring Bud third. Time, 59 seconds. Race two saw Baby Face win an unexpected victory in the four furlongs, with a purse of $50. Commander placed second, and Yaupon, a favorite of many, pulled in third. Time was 49 seconds. Scimator wins mile In the eight furlongs, or mile race, Scimator outlasted Blanche A to win first money. Beverley McCaw placed in this race, whose purse was $100. Topping the days running in the fourth race, Nut Jr. stretched to win over Indian Lore. Purse in this race was $70. Today (Thursday) finds a special race event in the Merchants Derby. A purse of $200 made up for the most part by donations from Corning businessmen, will be offered in this race, to be one mile and 70 yards in distance.

The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010 Page 9B

Page 10B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

Originally published in the Adams County Free Press on August 14, 1952 Twenty-six cars participated in the hot rod race Sunday afternoon, opening the 1952 exhibition for fair patrons. A near record opening day crowd of 2,500 watched the afternoon of thrills. There were two bad wrecks at the first turn south of the grandstand and two cars plowed off the track at the start of the fea-

Hot rod races open 1952 Adams County Fair

ture race. None of the drivers was seriously injured. Six cars were involved in the first two wrecks, and two were badly damaged. Best qualifying time was turned in by Bob Ward of Creston, the days big winner, with a 33.9 for the half-mile track. Ward captured three firsts during the afternoontrophy dash, fast heat and feature race of 10 miles. Ward ground out a spectacular finish the feature race, edging out Ray McCauley of Kent in the home stretch of the last lap. Winners: Trophy Dash Bob Ward, Creston Slow Heat Darwin Kendrick, Villisca, first; Pete Brown, Afton, second; Willard McIntosh, Villisca; Art Schuster, Blockton. Fast Heat Bob Ward, Creston, first; Bill Steele, Creston, second; Martin Pain, Newton, third; Cleo Burmeister, Anita, fourth. Consolation Ray McCauley, Kent, first; Cotton Gardner, Clearfield, second; Joe Lindsay, Red Oak, third; Gerald Kinserly, Red Oak, fourth. Feature Bob Ward, Creston, first; Ray McCauley, Kent, second; Cleo Burmeister, Anita, third; Bill Steele, Creston, fourth; Gerald Kinserly, Red Oak, fifth.

The event was staged by members of the Kent Volunteer Fire Department, who handled all the administrative details of the races. Ivan Butterfield was the announcer, with other activities directed by Glen Herzog. Also aiding in the scoring, timing, etc., were Hal Morris, Cleve Seley, Harvey Wright, Howard Mickey, Ray Trost, Don Trost, Clinton Claiser and Max Paxon.

Opening day hot rod races at the Adams County Fair provided some un-scheduled thrills for the large crowd Sunday afternoon, with two serious wrecks at the south turn of the half-mile track. A Free Press photographer snapped the above picture of the second wreck just after the drivers had been pulled out unhurt. Corning firemen sprayed the vehicles with water, to prevent fire.

While locals have known for decades the excitement and simple pleasures that Adams County Speedway (ACS) affords race fans, the entire state of Iowa will soon hear the call, as the ACS is showcased on the new Iowa Public Television (IPTV) series, Iowas Simple Pleasures, hosted by Dan Kaercher. The founding editor-in-chief of Midwest Living magazine and host of several IPTV series, Kaercher is back with a new series seeking out fun things for Iowans to do, see, and taste in their home state. The series includes tubing, rafting, eating, and, of course, the ACS. For two days last summer, IPTV staff shot footage to highlight the Speedways high-octane charms. When I started looking for story ideas I noticed there was a racing track in Corning and I knew we had to cover it, said producer Dave Miller. I knew there was a diehard fan-base of dirt-track fans and I wanted people to know there was a place in Iowa where you could go for an evening of racing entertainment. On the first day of shooting, Kaercher spent time with the mar-

Adams County Speedway featured on IPTV

The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010 Page 11B

keting staff at the ACS. On the second day, Miller, along with videographer John Torpy, took in an evening at the track covering

everything that goes on at the Speedway. Everyone really made us feel welcome and we had access to everything from the stands to

the pits, Miller said. The episode featuring Adams Countys renowned dirt track airs April 29. For more informa-

tion on Iowas Simple Pleasures, visit www.iptv.org/iowastories/detail.cfm/iowas-simplepleasures.

Page 12B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

Originally published in the Adams County Free Press on August 24, 1972 Tempers ran as hot as the engines Saturday night at the Adams County Speedway, as protests in restart alignments were disputed by a few drivers and crews in the late model feature event. Cars involved were Darwin Larson of Audubon, Earl Tice of Ames and Massenas Varel Schmidt. Larson was accused of causing Tice and Schmidt to collide on the third turn, and was at first sent to the rear of the pack

Tempers reach season high at speedway Saturday

by finish line officials. He won his case when a decision by the curve official verified his innocence. Griswolds Jim Wyman, running in frontand not a part of the happeningswon the race and continued his grip on first place at the track. Some of the best and most exciting races so far this summer took place during the nine-event card. Tense situations blueprinted early in the heat races, came to bloom in the main events.

The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010 Page 13B

Page 14B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

A fan of racing in the 1960s and 1970s, Gail Hampel was approached in 1972 to join the Adams County Speedway Board. He served in that capacity, eager to help in the operations of a sport that attracted him. When the track hit troubled times in the late 70s and early 80s, Hampel and his family took over the promotions of the track in 1983, a capacity they would hold until the close of the 2008 racing season. Hampel quickly worked to incorporate improvements, procuring NASCAR sanctioning in 1984 and improving the facilities and raising the payout as car count and crowd size grew. There was not much profit over the years, but that wasnt the intention, according to Hampel. We wanted to build it up, Hampel said. to have a

Hampel dedicates 26 years to ACS promotion

place for my boys to race. Hampel views the NASCAR sanctioning as a turning point in the life of the track. It brought promotion money, uniforms, rules and the ability to cooperate with other tracks. NASCARs been really helpful, said Hampel. As the size of the crowd more than doubled, Hampel added additional grandstands and reserve seating. In his early days at the track, 50 cars would arrive for Saturday night racing. Hampel saw the car count peak at over 120. That number has backed off, but the economys got something to do with reduced numbers, Hampel said. Racings gotten so expensive. Both of Hampels sons, John and Greg, have raced at the track, and the promotion has always been a family affair, with countless hours at

work to make the Speedway a success. Eventually, torches must pass. Following the flooded 2008 season, Hampel elected to step down. I was to the

Gail Hampel, center, celebrates with his family on their final night as ACS promoters.

point where I was too busy and to old to fight with it. Hampel was recognized by ACS and NASCAR for his years of contributions to the track and the sport of racing.

Left with happy memories of a successful career, Hampel now enjoys a quieter Saturday, and one which is well earned.

The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010 Page 15B

Page 16B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

Good advice
Get in a safe race car. It doesnt hurt to have some go-cart experience. Learn to understand how a race car works.

The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010 Page 17B

.is always certain to be ignored, but thats no reason not to give it

Drive only and let someone else own the car. -Bill Stuart

-Agatha Christie

-Dwight Jackson

Its an expensive hobby, but what hobby isnt? Weigh the pros and cons and family life. To be competitive you have to work on it every week. -Donnie Willet

Ask a lot of questions. -Rick Bissell

Racing at the ACS and other tracks around the country has always been a family affair. Names like Spieker, Jackson, Zadina, Hampel, Stuart, Foote, Kosiski and Cooney are among the names with multiple racers familiar to ACS racefans. Pictured right is second-generation driver Tim Cooney. His father Weldons #47 is pictured far right.

Have awful good sponsors or have a lot of money. -Sam Richey

Protect your body. -Gail Hampel

Page 18B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

In the early days of the did demolish a car you could we had more fun back in Adams County Speedway go to the salvage yard and pick those days than they do (ACS), the track was flat and up another one for $25 or now It costs so much now. Brokaw learned the the dust flew high. Ron Brokaw $30, Brokaw said. The Adams County Stock Car hard way that he was of Corning is among the few drivers that recall driving Association was formed in 1962, better off staying in when the races were Adams and Brokaw was on hand for the front. In the days when County Fair exhibitions run in first full season of the Speedway fast track times started drivers the afterat the noon beback of f o r e I think we had mor e fun bac k in t hos e t h e lights p a c k m a d e d a y s t h a n t h e y d o n o w. rather racing a than in Saturday t h e night atfront, traction. Brokaw B e elected hind the to hold w h e e l from 1959-69, Brokaw pre- in 1963. Over the years, Brokaw back to stay out of traffic ferred ACS over the quarter- piloted cars numbered 448, 7 until late in the race. mile tracks at Anita, Clarinda, and 35 with Ralph Hickman Going into the #2 turn, Stuart, Mt. Ayr and Savannah, and Stormy Karstensen turning another driver clipped him and Mo. Though costs were much the wrenches to keep him at the he rolled sideways four times followed by one end-over-end. lower in the fifties and sixties, front of the pack. His crew had the car put tothe quarter-mile tracks were I won my share of races, much harder on equipment, knockin on the front door most of gether and he was back on the according to Brokaw. If we the time, said Brokaw. I think track the very next week, think-

Brokaw and the flat track days

Ron Brokaw

ing to himself, Im not holding back. He didnt. He won all three races and stayed away from the rear of the pack thereafter. Brokaw quit racing in 1969, moving to Des Moines. He later returned to his original

stomping grounds, but never returned to the track. It just wasnt the same, he said. I ate so much dirt on Saturday nights. It was kind of nice to get cleaned up and stay clean.

The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010 Page 19B

Page 20B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010
With Larry Haggerty and Harry Wiechman keeping his car in top form, Sam Richey of Corning made a second home of the Speedway from 1959 to 1964. Working in an implement place, we had a couple of good mechanics around. It sounded like fun to me, said Richey. We did a lot of winning. Though it wasnt funny at the time, with winning came suspicions of rule bending. Richey, as well as other successful drivers like Ron Brokaw, often found their cars torn down to check that nothing illegal contributed to their speed. With speed comes danger, and Richey recalls an incident in Kirksville, Mo. when he was nearly impaled by a 2X4 from a guardrail. On another occasion, Richey wrecked fellow driver Larry Fudges car. Though a strong driver, Richey retired from behind the wheel in 1964. It took it right out of me when I quit, said Richey. I got married and she said that was enough of that. And it was. Five or six years ago, Richey, now 70, returned to the track as a spectator. Im hooked again, he said.

Hooked againRichey returns to the track as a spectator

I got married and she said that was enough of that. And it was. S a m R i c h e y

In addition to controlling the operations of the Speedway, the Fair and Racing Association also supports area groups and individuals with funds from their community support program. The $2,500 in scholarships awarded to area seniors in 2009 brings total scholarship dollars awarded to over $19,000. Since 2002, over $60,000 has been distributed as scholarships and grants. Area groups and clubs also earn funds for their projects by helping to clean up the grounds after weekly race events.

Did you know?

Adams County Fair and Racing Association Board of Directors

Tony Hardisty, president Cliff Baldwin, 1st vice president Ross Griffith,
2nd vice president

Burton Heaton, treasurer Nancy Robards, secretary Ron Helvie Lawrence Petersen Luis Avila Randy Perrin

Virginia Perrin Laurie Perrin Shane Haffner Brian Damewood John Damewood Scott Owens Jessica Lewis Karen Sharp Jim Weichman Clay Mercer Jeff Skelton Joe Wilson Mike Brown

Originally published in the Adams County Free Press on August 8, 1929 Automobile races on Friday afternoon will bring to Corning some of the fastest cars and drivers in this section of the country. Auto races have proven very popular and for this reason the fair association have inaugurated this form of amusement for the last day of the fair. In

Speed demons debut at Adams County Fair

the automobile races will be seen a front wheel drive racing car which, from all reports, is considered one

The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010 Page 21B

Originally published in the Adams County Free Press on August 7, 1930 Automobile races on Friday afternoon will bring to Corning some of the fastest cars and drivers in this section of the country. Auto races have proven very popular and for this reason

Second year of racing 1930

the fair association have inaugurated this form of amusement for the last day of the fair. In the automobile races will be seen a front wheel drive racing care, which, from all reports, is considered one of the fastest cars in the country. Chester White, a famous driver of Kansas City, will

of the fastest cars in the country. Chester White, a famous driver of Kansas City, will be the driver of this car. Other entries expected here are Commodore White, the Dixie Favorite, Dad Harrier, said to be the oldest driver on dirt tracks, Harold Kinser, Kansas Cyclone Driver, Tom Holden, with his famous Chrysler 70, and a host of other speed demons.

be the driver of this car. Other entries expected here are Commodore White, the Dixie Favorite, Dad Harrier, said to be the oldest driver on dirt tracks, Harold Kinser, Kansas Cyclone Driver, Tom Holden, with his famous Chrysler 70, and a host of other speed demons.

Page 22B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

Bill Stuart of Creston traces his racing roots back to 1962 when his #17 coupe arrived at the Adams County Speedway to start a stretch behind the wheel that would run until 1973. A consistent top five or top ten finisher, Stuart always liked cars. After watching others race, he decided to give it a ride. There was a lot of competition in those old coupes, Stuart said. Looking back, the racing was a lot of fun, but the friendships among drivers and race fans were also alluring. I was good friends with Ron Brokaw growing up in Lenox, said Stuart. But we were rivals on the track. Todays racing seems more of a dog-eat-dog situationwe had a lot of fun. Though Stuart quit racing in

Stuart recalls the early days

the early 1970s to concentrate on his young business, he spent time on the Board and still owns a modified car, which his grandson drives, and ongoing element of his competitive spirit Its just a different feeling and its hard to explain. Your adrenaline gets going, said Stuart. Undeterred by his concussions and broken bones, Stuarts wife, Dorothy also drove in the Powderpuff Races, which featured female drivers. She was game for anything, said Stuart. Still a competitive bowler at the age of 77and fond of his motorcyclea return to the cockpit isnt out of the question, Stuart speculates. It gets in your blood, said Stuart. It just stays there. Ive thought about racing again.

Above and opposite: a pair of Bill Stuarts hard charging #17 cars, which he drove from 1962 through 1973.

The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010 Page 23B

Page 24B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

After street dragging successfully in his 57 Chevy, Dwight Jackson of Corning made the transition to the racetrack in 1979 with one reason in mind: I determined that its not illegal to go fast on a racetrack. Pulling his drivers license out of jeopardy launched a short stint for Jackson behind the wheel, but it also started a longer-running involvement with Adams County Speedway as a successful car owner. In 1981, Jackson bought his business, Jackson Repair Service, and decided that the expense of racing would have to take a backseat to building his business. However, he didnt stray far from the track, electing to own and build engines and cars for other racers, including Tim Cooney, Mark Hansen and

Jackson transitioned from driver to owner for a winning run

his son Trent. I didnt consider myself a good enough driver, said Jackson, on his exit from the pilots seat. Instead, he focused on his strength of building a fast car, and found drivers who could win. Born into a racing family, Trent Jackson began racing at the age of 16, taking over Hansens success, which included a Western Iowa Series tion to that Championship, watching his son win his first feature at Adams County Speedway are among the elder Jacksons fondest track memories. A soft-spoken mechanic who measures time by the years on the trophies hes collected, Jackson has had moments of concern as well. While every one of his drivers has totaled a car, watching my son do seven flips at the Adams County Speedway on the front straightaway was the biggest nail-biter. He put on quite a show, said Jackson. After a trip to the hospital, Jackson the Younger returned to the track to watch the rest of the races. Realizing how safe the cars are, Jackson doesnt get as nervous as some folks do regarding a crash. I dont skimp

Championship in 1995. In addi-

anywhere on safety equipment, Jackson said. In a 30-year at career at ACS which has seen involvement

with a car in all but one year, Jackson looks down the track for another successful year in 2010.

The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010 Page 25B

Above: Jackson in his trademark #12 car, a number chosen for the 10 kids in his family-and mom and dad made 12, said his wife, Cheryl. Opposite: Jackson, right, with comrades and driver Mark Hansen, who successfully piloted Jackson cars-taking a career highlight Western Iowa Series Championship in 1995.

Page 26B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

Running a repair shop from 1965 to 1988, Donnie Willett of Corning knew early on how to show potential customers what he could do: be part of a winning racing team. From 1964 to 1975, Willett coowned and worked on a series of cars driven by Earl Tice and Dean Goldsmith, and later, he owned a car in the late 80s driven by Tim Peterson. Its a marketing tool for a mechanic, though a lot more hobby racing is done now, Willett said. Willetts team typically ran three nights a week, in Corning, Webster City and Boone, though he recalls a five-day spike in racing action where they raced eight times. In addition to getting the word out about his abilities as a mechanic, the other invaluable facet of racing was the comradeship with your crew, he

A mechanics marketing tool

said. Driving 36,000 miles per year hauling their car behind a 1944 truck with a V-8 engine provided plenty of crew time. While wins at the ACS were satisfying, winning at the State Fair was a highlight. Everybody likes to go to Des Moines and show their stuff, whether theyre football players, basketball players, wrestlers or racecar drivers, said Willett. Earning a point championship on home turf was another proud moment. While Willett spent most of his time in the role of mechanic, he did a little driving one year. I remember coming out of the #2 corner and rolling five times on Fathers Day. My wife wasnt there that day, said Willett. The resulting wrath of my wife and my pit crew, according to Willett, put an end to his driving.

Opposite: The #14 car driven by Dean Goldsmith, standing left. He and Willet, standing at right, are joined by the crew, kneeling from leftLyle Schrader, Paul Nolan, Randy Perrin and Danny Schafer.

The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010 Page 27B

Left: Donnie Willetts first late model was the #60 driven by Earl Tice of Ames; above: Tice driving #29, a 70 Chevelle on a 56 Chevy chassis.

Page 28B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

While hes enjoyed years of fun If it wasnt fun, I wouldnt be doing it. Thats the long and short at the Adams County Speedway, of it for driver Rick Bissell, owner his scariest moment came in Harof Ricks Auto and Ag Supply in lan, where he was thrown off the track into a pile of guardrail that Corning. Racing since 1982, Bissell is well had been removed from the track. acquainted with fun. The 2010 rac- Oh, man, was that a sudden stop, ing season will mark his eighteenth said Bissell. Moments like his 1992 A Feayear behind the wheel. Over the years, hes driven Hobby Stocks, Pro ture win in his Modified car are Streets, Modifieds and Late Models. quick to counter something discouraging B e s t like a crash. known That was a sudden stop Racing has by his it ups and # 4 4 Rick Bissell downs, its cars, Biscrashes and sell is its camac u r rently driving the #42 Late Model raderie, but in the end, for Bissell owned by Tim Cooney, though its and others like him, Its lots and lots of fun. powered by his own engine.

Behind the wheel since 82

2009 ACS Final Standings

2009 Chat Mobility Hobby Stocks Standings # Racer HC Pts 19 Trent Davison 81 562 46 Matt Williamson 76 555 86j Jerod Weston 52 551 2t Josh True 86 540 7 Tom Myers 47 516 40x David Weeda 65 512 20 Jeremy Auten 74 483 12g Jeremy Ribbey 42 476 15 Chris Vannausdle 39 457 78 Dean Richards 46 452 25 Kevin Yearington 61 406 8x Pat Shiflett 24 382 67 Dean Orr 30 380 18 Joe Murphy 24 336 10 Rick Ritchie 18 322 68+1 Blaine Peterson 50 314 44 Robert Hague 33 304 76 David Orr 13 298 72 Matt McAtee 27 270 33 Tim McCollum 16 268 71 Brit Pellman 23 240 56 Delmar Derry 35 232 78jr Cole Richards 24 214 20 Joshua Sink 20 126 13 Lucas Farmer 14 106 22 Jim Tull 18 86 3g Mark Curtis 14 78 3h Mike Hansen 1 72 31 Jim Hensen 13 68 22v Steve Churchill 12 64 4 Scott Crawley 13 50 78x Jerry Richards 16 44 671 Jason Steiner 18 42 22w Ryan Vicker 5 34 7k Jeramie Kane 3 28 33x Bronson Williams6 22 3 Derek Pellman 4 20 43 Vince Cihak 4 18 ACS Pro Street # Driver 3 Joe Zadina 95 Jeff Orr 55 Steve Churchill 83 Greg Miller 37d Brad Derry 38 Craig Garner 2 Kevin Sharp 81 Dwain Pelzer 13x Glenn Orr 1j Jerry Parker 36 Clay Mercer 20r 28c 83j 48 92 30j 69c 38h 68 96 63 77 29 2a 57 89 3j 19b 72 1 29j 3g 49x 26j 1x 68 Ron Helvie 47 Jake Christensen 28 AJ Miller 47 Cody Werner 14 David Schafroth 30 Kevin Jobe 10 Cody Clark 30 Matt Hudson 54 Jeremy Swanson 25 Jason Rold 32 Ron Ballinger 30 Glen Hoyt 16 Michael Howe 19 Austin Arndt 13 David White 11 Gary Henson 15 Kevin Yearington 10 Tim Bengard 14 Rick Negrete 10 Scott Bond 2 Jay Hess 6 Scott Griffith 6 Chad Sanders 1 Barry Sandeman 1 Mark Karg 5 Trent Davison 372 372 368 346 340 332 306 296 280 214 206 204 184 108 88 84 44 38 38 28 26 24 22 22 12 4 69 77 02 83 12 17s 28 22 28 55 62 15 93 24j 28 Kevin Bills Jack Larson John Davis Ben Wolverton Andrew Kinser Stoney Stuart Chase Mewhirter Kevin Parman Steven Hoover Bill Gibson Greg Cox John ONeal Jr. Rick Germar Jeff Soligo Jeff Breeding 27 16 5 13 2 11 18 4 6 9 2 3 1 108 104 96 82 66 62 62 42 42 42 34 26 24 16 8

The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010 Page 29B

HC 121 71 42 87 47 65 64 47 25 41 42

Pts 604 568 552 549 532 527 508 501 499 487 378

Poet Biorefining Modifieds # Driver HC 7 Jeremy Tibben 57 11 Ryan Peckham 59 V31 Todd Van Eaton 46 56 Chris Spieker 71 0 Kirby Stiens 65 43x Dan Mueller 51 59 Jared Stiens 54 37 Alison Quick 41 43 Brian Foote 27 5 Chris Hogan 36 78 Derrick Hicks 50 70 Jesse Dennis 34 36t Jeff Wiggins 31 4 J C Wyman 58 13h Eric Hanna 44 8 Mark Hoover 24 71 Jeff James 48 38 Brad Bergren 23 64 Russell Stewart 21 37f Randy Foote 53 77f Larry Foote 52 33 Ryan Stiens 15 R21 Ryan Schaffer 17 20 Les Helvie 4 21r Kelley Roof 15

Pts 549 533 526 517 498 489 477 472 447 419 414 403 400 376 374 372 368 324 282 272 260 194 150 124 118

Late Models # Driver HC 56 Chris Spieker 69 62 Leon Zeitner 112 33 Paul Glendenning71 62z Justin Zeitner 48 67 Karl Ritterbusch 34 2v Ryan Vicker 31 12 Trent Jackson 33 76 Al Zeitner 16 18 Troy McKee 23 15 Jason OBrien 54 8m Todd McKee 8 1 Jeremy Hodapp 16 7 Mike Garner 17 42 Rick Bissell 7 30k Jamie Kinyon 16 4 Tim Cooney 13 26jr Core Zeitner 29 26 Mel Zeitner 18 3t Jeff French 21 10c Justin Cooper 16 65 Ron Binning 7 31j Barry Sandeman 7 19 Todd Morgan 7 80 Scott Koskovich 8 77n Josh Most 3 33x Brian Kenkel 4 24 Bryant Goldsmith5 4e Mike Eversole 77 John Nicholson 2 28 Billy Leighton 40 Shawn Lee 1 3t Tom Perkins 1 41 Scott Green 53 Andrew Kosiski 3t Alex Naylor

Pts 317 317 296 284 281 271 246 249 236 224 194 184 176 158 154 151 148 94 88 84 80 52 42 42 28 28 26 14 14 10 8 6 4 2 2

Page 30B The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010

Flooding nothing new to to the ACS

The rain-delayed 2008 racing season brought damage and expense to the Adams County Speedway officials and heartache to racing fans, though flood waters are no stranger to the Speedway and Fairgrounds. Pictured top, flooding in 1972 submerged the race track much like the recent Flood of 2008, pictured above and right.

The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2010 Page 31B

Page 32 The Adams County Free Press, Thursday, April 22, 2009

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