FAS Race #3 Review

April 25th 2009 Crossroads Motorplex, Jasper FL

“The Rest of The Story”

My day started about 9am Friday when I left for the track. 3.5-4 hour drive, Not a bad drive but I wanted to get up there early Friday to check out the track conditions. Not that it would have done me any good but I at least would have an idea of what we were in for come Saturday morning. We’ve had some unusually high temps for this time of year, up in the 90’s and Crossroads is not known for holding up to well when the temps get that high. After arriving I will say that Wade and crew had put the water on it and were continuing to do so to keep it from drying out. Track looked good but only time would tell. Looks like most of the guys had decided to drive up in the morning as it was only me and the Grill Dog hanging out in the Dog Pound all afternoon with nothing better to do than go pop off a few rounds of ammo then sit down and have a couple of cold ones back in the Pound.. Later on Alderman, Nicosia, and Peters rolled in. Then RabidDog rolled up. It was getting late so we all headed off to get something to eat then to the motel. Lets move on to Saturday shall we..

Race Day

Come Saturday morning at the track after doing our usual ‘Grin and Grip’ we finally settled in and found we had 16 entrants. Good showing by anyone’s standard in this day and age. As everyone broke out the equipment and got to prepping tires and getting things set up we had a chance to observe some of the Senior class practice. Man, was the track ever slippery. They had put down 24 bags of calcium and all of us hoped it would come in. Unique problem with Crossroads speedway is that it has always been a one groove track which absolutely makes no sense as the track is plenty wide to run in 2 grooves. However for some ungodly reason known only to the powers that be, they always run it in 8-10 feet off the bottom of the track. Trust me, I have heard all the excuses over the years and complained about it for just as long but no matter, it has never changed and I don’t know why.

First practice came on and we went out in two separate groups, Not everyone participated as its usually just a seat time thing to knock off the cob webs. Track is always to slick to start adjusting anything on the chassis or even make a guess on the tires. Over the years the 2nd round of practice is usually the tell tale sign of what the track is going to do the rest of the day but today was a surprise. It didn’t come in for the 2nd round either. Some said it was worse than the 1st practice. Which as you can imagine leads to wild speculation on tire choice and setup for what was coming up next and that was Qualifying Guys, were changing staggers, tire compounds, prep was in the air. Some putting on the gummies, others changing gear ratios etc. The experienced guys will usually wait it out for a couple of hours until qualifying starts, watch the early classes to see what kind of grip they are getting then adjust as needed.

I don’t think I saw one kart out there during practice that wasn’t having issues with grip. Mark Deese was thoroughly enjoying himself as he went to throwing it in slideways and feathering the throttle thru the turns. He spun a few times but had a grin on his face when he came off. Alderman took to it also with some success and was following Deese around emulating Marks slideways driving. There was some great kart control going on out there with some seat of the pants driving. Most the guys were tiptoeing around, letting off at the flag stand and very gently getting back in the throttle off the corners. You could spin the tires all the way down the straight if you chose to. Our friend RabidDog Brian Abel was trying out a different power plant that JB had put on the kart. A PCR 150cc. However for some reason the engine was heating up way to quickly so they came off and changed it over to one Jack’s spare bullets which was the Sudam. WildDog Wayne Carr was having problems with his twins as one of the engines kept dying on him so he did the same and switched engines over to his Sudam. We always have a few hours between practice and qualifying to make changes as we do between qualifying and feature time. There are 24 classes in FKA so being rushed in between rounds is not an issue What we thought was going to be the issue because the FAS goes out 7th in the lineup(early) and if the track hadn’t come in by the end of practice (which it didn’t) with 200 karts on it, then it was anybody’s guess as to what was going to get you on Pole.

Qualifying

Come qualifying time and watching the previous classes it was obvious the track was coming in. We’d had about 2-3 hours of down time after practice and another 140 karts had hit the track since our last venture out. On the grid we decided to go out in groups of 4 for our 5 lap qualifier. As the qualifying results will testify the track had indeed come in although not as fast as usual it quite a bit of grip which allowed for the times seen below. Nicosia got pole with Schreifels 2 tenths back and a great showing by young Mr. Wayne Alderman. Brian Abel stuck the Sudam he and JB had mounted earlier but still came in with a 5th place. Mark Corndoggie Deese lost a motor mount clamp and had 6th place qualifier. Both Deese and Abel did it on the 1st lap of their qualifying round. Roy McGowan had to pull off after having problems on the grid and track with no time recorded. Everyone knows at Crossroads you need to qualify up front or you wont have a chance. Its just that type of one groove track. Its not that passing is hard, its just a horsepower track and all things being equal its tough to make up for lost time from the back although it has been done. Race time will tell who has what when the green flag drops.

1-Mike Nicosia ………13.311
2-Ed Schreifels……….13.568
3-Wayne Alderman…..13.616
4-Gary Hutchinson…...13.689
5-Brian Abel………….13.746
6-Mark Deese……… 13.782
7-Jason Easterling……13.795
8-Dee Black…………..13.999
9-Wayne Howe……….14.008
10-Frankie Kimberlin 14.010
11-Tim Taft………… 14.052
12-James Harrell……..14.369
13-Wayne Carr……….14.398
14-Scott McGowan…..14.531
15-Kevin Johnson……14.566
16-Roy McGowan……No Time..


The Race

With the infamous “Jump Start Fast Eddie Schreifels” on outside pole I knew the start was going to be iffy at best. Its always fun to watch the mind games going on with the front row guys when it comes time to nail the throttle. Everyone knows its very seldom we make it thru turn one on this track without a wreck of some sort. Its almost inevitable when you funnel 16 karts into a one groove turn at 65-70mph.

As they all got their 3-4 hot laps to build some heat in the tires we lined them up 2 by 2. Going down the back strait they were jostling each other around a bit as the adrenaline was dumping in increased amounts the closer they got to turn 3.. The fence was lined with spectators. The fans in the stands were on their feet in anticipation of the FAS Feature as the sound of 16 drivers in 50hp open engines increased in pitch and intensity becoming deafening, straining to be unleashed.

Well folks, Fast Eddie da BullDoggie didn’t disappoint. He jumped but Nicosia on pole wasn’t biting. LINE ‘EM UP AGAIN…we did. This time coming around thru turn 3 and into 4 it was a chess match as Schreifels knew if he didn’t get a jump he would be freight trained into turn one. He didn’t and he did. Nicosia jumped at the right time..GREEN, GREEN GREEN..and down the front straight they go. Alderman tucked up underneath Nicosia’s bumper and was letting anyone down into that spot. He banged side bars with Schreifels who was desperately trying to get down in line. While fighting with Alderman for the spot Deese had jumped up from 6th to tuck in behind Alderman. If anyone knows Mark, he don’t give an inch. He banged with Schreifels a little and held his 3rd place spot as they reached turn one Schreifels dropped in behind Deese and the Race was on. Everyone made it thru turn 1 in one piece. Only 3 more turns to go and we’ve got an official start. They made it. Everyone gave room much to their credit, it surprised hell out of me.

As they came around for the 1st lap we had Nicosia leading followed by Alderman, Deese, Schreifels, Abel, Easterling, Black, Howe, Taft, Hutchinson and Kimberlin rounding out the top 10. with Harrell, Scott McGowan, Kevin Johnson, and Wayne Carr is close pursuit.. As the field began to settle in the fight to watch was between Deese and Schreifels running 3rd and 4th respectively By lap 3 Schreifels was all over Deese’s bumper coming off of turn 2 he pulled along side and they raced side by side the length of the strait with Deese finally having to give room going into turn 3. Coming around lap 4 Schreifels had moved into the 3rd place spot which is where he would stay never mounting a serious challenge to the 2 leaders in front of him Nicosia continued to pull away from Alderman who was running in 2nd bit by bit thru the first half of the race. Abel was running good back in 4th spot only 3 tenths behind Deese but then Mr Murphy showed up and the engine gave way in the k-35 they had mounted after sticking the Sudam in qualifying. Another piston bites the dust.

By lap 7 the front 4 remained the same but former FAS Champ Wayne Howe moved up into 5th place only 1 second behind Deese. Dee Black from Alabama had moved up into 6th place on a 4 stroke built by Willie Sink and owned and maintained by Paul Doss. Easterling, who was back with us for the weekend and currently serving in the U.S. Navy now in Pensacola had dropped back into 7th but still running good for not being in the seat since last year. Jason is a former 100cc Outlaw Champ in ‘O7. Our front runner Mike Nicosia was last years 100cc Outlaw Champion.

Around lap 8 James Harrell spun between turns 1 and 2 but got back going without bringing out a caution. The battle continued between Easterling, Black, Taft, Hutchinson and Kimberlin thru the middle laps..These guys were all running pretty close. Passing was hard to do however they managed to swap positions with some good clean racing. The top 5 remained with Nicosia, Alderman, Schreifels, Deese and Howe. The 2nd 5 were having some fun as they hadn’t gotten to far away from each other with Easterling, Hutchinson, Taft, Black and Kimberlin bringing in the top ten at lap 15.

With 5 to go Alderman started closing on the leader which brought everybody’s attention back to the front. After being 1 second down Wayne had now closed the gap to within a few feet of Nicosia’s bumper. You could tell he was driving it for all it was worth trying to get his 1st win if Mike just slipped up a little bit he would’ve been right there. The last 5 laps saw Tim Taft loose a chain on lap 17..Easterling got sideways and lost a lap. With Taft and Easterling having problems Gary Hutchinson moved up into 6th place for great finish, Frankie Kimberlin on his twin Yammi’s in only his 2nd time out with us got himself a good solid finish in 7th, Dee Black who got in late from Ala.,had no practice time at all come home a strong 8th place on the only 4 stroke in the field and to top it off lost the exhaust header duiring the race but with the exhaust blowing on his arm he still managed to bring it home..with a good burn on the right arm.., my buddy Wayne Carr finally finished one this year and got himself a 9th after swapping engines and lo and behold Scotty McGowan on his Suzuki 125 shifter finally got himself up into the top 10.. Congrats Scotty you’ve been trying a long time. Glad to see ya finally get good finish. Roy McGowan (Scotts older brother) had problems all day except for one practice session. Mr. Abel..what can I say you and JB worked your butts off, Murphy just happens to like you better than the others. Kevin Johnson seemed to have gorilla on his back all day with his K-30. Some of you guys might remember the Johnson brothers from over panhandle way. Kevin is a great guy and hope he makes the next one. It was a pleasure talking with ya Kevin. For those of you wondering about Victor Peters..VP is suffering from some back problems and chose not to run this time around. However, he and TS Racing offer all of us great support at the track and we appreciate all they do..

Many many thanks go out to the FKA crew as always. Best in the business guys, bar none. Without them and the professionals on staff we couldn’t pull this off and be as successful as we are..Last but not least, another thanks goes out to Mike Grady for providing gift certificate again this weekend from Buller Built.This weeks “Never Quit” award recipient was none other than Jack “LuckyDog” Burroughs. 3 engines in one day is quite a feat.

Neat race gentlemen is Fruitland Park Speedway for the 2nd Annual Roy McGowan Sr. Tribute Race. All you OLD DOGS better start taking your vitamins cause it looks like we got a couple of YOUNG PUPS starting to lift their legs and stake out some of their own territory. Big congrats also goes out to Wayne Alderman and Papa Joe for struggling thru the learning curve this year and last..looks like you guys have finally got if figured out. Lord help us all if Wayne wins one of these things. Somebody needs to be standing next to Mama cause she aint gonna be right for a couple of hours afterwards...and to our Winner Mike Nicosia, man what a drive...smooth as silk my friend and a great job. Pleasure having both you guys running with us this year….Beware though youngins..old age and treachery………BEWARE..

Here's a video taken of the race

FAS Final Results Race #3

1-Mike Nicosia
2-Wayne Alderman
3-Ed Schreifels
4-Mark Deese
5-Wayne Howe
6-Gary Hutchinson
7-Frankie Kimberlin
8-Dee Black
9-Wayne Carr
10-Scott McGowan
11-Jason Easterling
12-James Harrell
13-Tim Taft
14-Brian Abel
15-Kevin Johnson
16-Roy McGowan

 

 

FAS Race #2 “Rest of the Story”

March 21st 2009, Dirt Devils Speedway, Land O' Lakes FL

As I left the house about 6am Saturday morning, I had checked the weather report and it looked to be a good day for racing. Temps supposed to be in the mid 70’s, some clouds and a very little chance of rain, but then again, this is Florida and anything can happen. Was in the high 50’s when I left for my 2.5 hr trip to the track in Land O’ Lakes (Dirt Devils) with expectations of maybe 10-12 entry’s. Our last race saw 13-14 entry’s and I hoped we would be close to that. When I arrived. I wasn’t disappointed as we ended up with a total of 17 Anxious Alpha Males all signed up and ready to rock

I arrived at the track about 9am due to an accident on I-4 between Orlando and Tampa but got there as the first practice was getting started for the Adult 4 cycles. After greeting everyone in the DogPound then doing my usual trip around the track to do my obligatory “Grin and Grip”, including visiting the FKA trailer to say hello to all the officials, grab my headset then head back out to the Pound it was about time for our 1st practice. We had been moved up to 7th in the program as noted at the last race in Jasper so things just happen to move a little quicker for us thru the day.

I must say its always fun to see everyone again after a 6 week lull in the schedule. Seeing Rooster show up with his kart ready to race was a surprise and a pleasure, he’s always fun to be around, Our friend Dee Black drove 8 hours from Alabama to join us again for some fun in the sun with a surprise power plant instead of his 305 which was in pieces. He was generouly loaned an engine and with support from Paul Doss. Our long haired Senior citizen friend Mike Eller made his debut again this year and promises to bring more HP with him next time around. Always good seeing the Harrells again, Chris and James with Dr. Gary Hutchinson in tow. Gary’s really stepped up his game this year. We miss Chris not driving as he is a 3 time FAS Champ but he’s been doing quite well in the Box Stock class this year. And of course our Most Senior Citizen is James Harrell who has been doing this longer than most karters have been alive but is always a force to be reckoned with on the track and off. Most of the regular Dogs were in attendance with the exception of our good friend and pot stirrer Mr Brian Abel aka RabidDog..who had to get ready to head up to KY., on business. However Mr. Andy Detton aka ShowDog stepped into his place to wheel the Jack Burroughs Machine. Scotty McGowan who has been a regular the last couple of years had older brother Roy in tow with another shifter kart. Roy got no track time last time out due to a parts failure but was hoping for luck this time around.

Several questions came to mind as I roamed thru the pits to say hello to everyone. We had a 1st timer join the group who I’ve known for years but 1st timers are always a sort of wildcard if you will, Mr Frankie Kimberlin, who some of you know has started the “Yamaha class” down here in Florida with some success. Frankie showed up on a kart with Twin Yamahas mounted on board. For those that don’t know his Step Dad is none other than Mr Marty Ruser of TS Racing. Great support to have huh? We had some fun with Frankie in the drivers meeting, at his expense of course..along with Marty, who has been around the Dog Pound since its inception about 10 years ago..

Next would be Victor Peters, everyone knows VP’s prowess, skill and reputation behind the wheel. He is one of the best in the country no matter what power plant he sits down in. . VP is also of TS Racing and part of and a leader of their excellent Trackside Support Team. I might add to all concerned, it is really great to see TS Racing back at the Track and participating actively thru their TS Racing parts trailer run by our good buddy Bobby Bundy and Victor doing the TS Racing Trackside Support.. The question with VP of course is whether those Twin Sonics would hold together for 20 laps. We know VP is fast but they have struggled since the Christmas in Dixie keeping all the parts together and getting the bugs worked out. All of us in the FAS are aware that these were built and are the brain child of none other than the “Boy Genius” himself Mr Todd Spaude who has been a great supporter of the FAS for years…The motor mounts and jackshaft mounts are designed and built by Bob Berlin who is an excellent machinist and always their to help the FAS guys with his engineering and machinist abilities, he has been a great asset to have around.

Next would be Mr Mike Nicosia, who had won the last race qualifying pole and winning the race on VP’s Sudam and support from TS Racing. Would anyone have anything for him as he was extremely fast and consistent last time out. Could he repeat and increase his points lead.

Would Fast Eddie be back on his game after a disastrous start to the year his last time out at Jasper qualifying in last place or thereabouts..We all know and at least anticipated, knowing Fast Eddie and how competitive he is, that an embarrassment like that wont happen again..

Wayne Alderman has been climbing the ranks steadily, would this be his breakout race. If it wasn’t for some bad luck Wayne would be right up there in the top five in points. He’s in a place we all have been at one time another and we all go thru it. Good thing for Wayne is that Mom and Dad are there every race. Mom is the moral support and Dad is the Crew Chief and one tough cookie if I don’t say so myself..Great friends and good people.

Wayne Carr, would he struggle mightily as he did in the first race of the year or would we see the old WildDog back in the hunt..What can I say that I haven’t said before about my old buddy WildDoggie..Wayne has been with me since the beginning many many moons ago. We’re kinda joined at the hip even though he don’t know it sometimes..I don’t know if the FAS could have come this far without his support and of course if you know Wayne his *****y little attitude..

Mark Deese, who is always fast but something happened on the way to Jasper last month, the kart and Mark are struggling to turn LEFT..and have been for the last few races..we shall see. Of course he swore he was just here for fun this time and all that getting up on the wheel, getting mad, over driving it wasn’t gonna happen this time..We shall see..

Blair Combs..who purchased a Buller Built Sudam from Fast Eddie will make his debut on that new powerplant..We all that engine can win races but can Blair pull one off with it..I gotta admit. Blairs time will come. This guy has got talent. He’s as smooth and fast in lesser equipment than most I have seen. Smart driver who if he gets a break on the equipment he has now is going to be a force to be reckoned with..

Tim Taft, could Tim repeat his performance of the last race when he finished 2nd and a very impressive one at that..I don’t know what magic the Tafty one has found but the look in his eyes says he is on his game. His confidence is high..Tim never lacked in the talent department, his knowledge sometimes held him back but I think the learning curve has been exceeded since moving down here a couple of years ago..He seems to have gotten it all together and become a true convert and expert to the Southern way of racing..while still maintaining that brash Yankee attitude in the land of Southern Gentlemen without getting himself strung up by a noose somewhere..as I sit here chuckling to myself

Practice
As we moved into the 1st round of practice everyone knew the track was going to be a little loose as it usually is at all of our tracks due to that mornings application of calcium and maybe water the night before or that am. 1st round is usually good for breaking in a new engine, getting some seat time, making sure nothing falls off etc..Very few will start making adjustments to their machines if they do they will be small. Fun thing about Dirt, its always changing on ya..

Round 2, seemed like everyone showed for this one round of practice as the track had gained a ton of grip by now and was super smooth. Great job by the Dirt Devils staff in the track preparation as everyone was pleased. This is one fast track guys..1/5 slight banking and two different ends of the track which means the corners are taken differently. You just have to remember which one is which…This 2nd round had no major incidents but we broke the group into half with so many entry’s to give everyone more room. Sometimes I wonder if the guys really understand that its just PRACTICE..they get out there and act like its feature time sometimes..anyway, its fun to watch even though raises my blood pressure a couple of digits and we have to get them to separate a little…

Qualifying..

As qualifying rolled around the track had gotten quite a bit faster and by previous lap times in practice a New Track Record was a possibility…Size of track and speed dictate my decision on how many FAS guys to send on the track for 5 laps of qualifying. On this day we decided to go with 4 at a time and it proved a good decision. Jarred, who is our grid man does an excellent job of waiting until everyone is fired and then releasing them at the right time in order to create enough space so a faster kart doesn’t stack up on a slower kart in qualifying basically making a faster driver lose a lap until he can get around..As we we went the field I was getting times called in on my headset. After the 2nd group went out Schreifels was on Pole with a new track record of 11.012 with Mike Nicosia right behind with a 11.089. If you take the time and look there were 13 racers in the 11 sec bracket. But the spoiler came in the next group as Victor Peters went out and turned a blistering 10.978…this day the track records were going to fall, that’s how good the track was and how well prepared this group was for raceday. It was looking to be a spectacular event come feature time.. We were not disappointed!!! As you can read below..About a half second separated the top 10 qualifiers..Everybody knows when it comes race time, it’s a whole nother story..

Florida All-Stars Qualifying

Victor Peters 10.978
Ed Schreifels 11.012
Mike Nicosia 11.089
Mark Deese 1.143
Tim Taft 11.173
Wayne Alderman 11.372
Gary Hutchinson 11.398
Blair Combs 11.476
Bob Lawson 11.571
Wayne Carr 11.611
Scott McGowan 11.616
Andy Detten 11.813
Frankie Kimberlin 11.840
Dee Black 12.043
Mike Eller 12.178
James Harrell 12.657
Roy McGowan




Race Review

Well folks come race time and after looking over the qualifying sheets I realized that the start of this particular race could pose a big problem…Want to know why?…We now have 4 of the hardest chargers in the field all lined up side by side in the 1st 2 rows. We’ve got Peters on Pole, Schreifels outside pole, Nicosia inside 2nd row and Deese outside 2nd row. Everyone of them has been reprimanded at one time or another for Over Aggressive Driving. ………Blood Pressure just went up another 10 digits…There was no way in hell that this group was going to make it into turn one in one piece. Not one them gives any quarter when the green flag comes out and you cant go two wide into turn one at full throttle. On top of that, when it happens its usually at the front of the pack, then all hell breaks loose behind them. With 8 rows lined up 2 by 2 that in itself can get kind of messy when it happens…Guess what?…IT DID !! Of course we all expected Fast Eddie to jump start from the outside actually firing in turn 3 and having a 6 kart length lead by the time the yellow flag came out.., he usually does and is famous for it…HE DID Eddie and Victor have played these mind games with each other for several years…so we went yellow to try again..Now, on the 2nd try is when it all went down hill…as the yellow came out for a bad start instead of the green, the leaders immediately slowed causing the field behind to start stacking up as everyone was looking for a place to go and dodge the melee in front of them. As fast as these things are, reaction time is not enough to keep from hitting someone in front of you when you are on their bumper..Mark Deese caught Schreifels in the left side rear quarter panel, turned him 180 deg just past the flagstand, Eddie got into the soft stuff on the outside, got airborne for a split second, settled down the hit hard into the tire wall..it was quite a ride I’m sure..What was amazing is that he never killed it, and with apparently no damage to the kart he drove back on the track and resumed his 2nd place spot…WildDog Wayne Carr got caught up in it as he dodged down into the infield then back up across Tim Tafts nose somehow and got hit in his right rear knocking the chain off and ending his day early…There were several others in the field that got run into and beat up a little over that start but everyone collected themselves and lined back up..This time it was Single File

As we lined them up this time the hope was that everyone would mind their manners and at least get the 1st one in clean and green..We DID!!.. Now having said that, I have to admit my comfort zone is between 12-15 karts on track. It makes a good show, however we have started as many as 25 or above many times..The speed and quickness of these things is astounding to say the least and even down here the 15 kart show is usually the best. I also will admit that my “no yellow” policy has softened a bit for reasons I’ll explain in a minute.
As everyone dropped in line at the start the top 10-12 were very close in times. It became evident that Peters was the class of the field as he immediately started to pull away from Schreifuls bit by bit. The horsepower of the twins on the straights was evident even though this is usually corner speed racing as everyone is fairly equal as HP numbers go at around 50hp…of course Tires and setup are always key to winning plus lady luck and staying out of trouble have a lot to do with it..

I don’t have my notes in front of me at this time but around lap 5 Nicosia who was beating on Schreifels bumper pretty good got into him in turn 2 and actually spun himself out. Nicosia and Schreifels have a little history going back to the Christmas in Dixie and it was probably a wise thing to do..with Nicosia’s spin it I brought out the yellow as he was facing in the wrong direction at the bottom of the track at the exit of turn 4..not a good place to be. With Karts strung out around the track there was no way he could get back in traffic safely, hence the yellow flag. Mike had to go to the back of the field as we lined back up for the restart.
‘
I have had this slow realization from the last race that sometimes yellow flags are good for the drivers and the fans and somehow today, proved that out. It doesn’t take long for the racers to get strung out again as evidenced by lap 11 for our next yellow flag when Scott McGowan got sideways and killed the engine at the exit of turn 2…As the field packed back up and went green again there were some very good battles going on but the man to watch was Nicosia who was coming back through the field like a man on a mission. I have to admit and he will to, he put the bumper on most everyone as he came back up towards the front. In the meantime the whole field no matter what position had battles of their own going on. Every racer in the field at one time or another banged bars, got tapped in the rear, or did some tapping of their own. That’s just how close the racing was on this particular day..I watched Wayne Alderman go side by side for 2-3 laps, thinking the whole time he wasn’t going to make it or he cant do that..much to my surprise he made it work.

Its kind of amazing that if you look at the top 5 in qualifying, they finished exactly where they qualified even though several positions were won and lost during the 20 lap feature. I have got to give kudo’s to Tim Taft and Mark Deese along with Mike Nicosia for some of the best racing I’ve witnessed in a long time. Taft and Deese were mixing it up every lap and Nicosia was coming fast. We threw about 3 yellow flags during the 20 lap feature, everyone of them for a good reason for safety sake, but every time the field closed up the racing became even more intense. Nicosia gets the hard charger award. He did it without taking anyone out even though he had run out of brakes and made it back up to a 3rd place finish..Deese and Taft can be seen on Video swapping paint and positions the whole race..it was a pleasure to watch these two friends and racers go at each other so hard like that but having an absolute ball doing it and high fiven each other on track on the cool down lap...

Florida All Stars Race Results:

Victor Peters
Ed Schriefels
Mike Nicosia
Mark Deese
Tim Taft
Gary Hutchinson
Dee Black
James Harrell
Wayne Alderman
Bob Lawson
Mike Eller
Frankie Kimberlin
Scott McGowan
Andy Detten
Blair Combs
Wayne Carr
Roy McGowan

Wrap up

What can I say about Victor Peters that hasn’t been said before..When VP is on his game, he is as close to unbeatable as anyone in the business. Congrats to Victor and TS Racing. Victors fast time was even faster than his qualifying time. With a 10.832 record lap time that should last for some time to come. Congrats to Victor Peters and TS Racing

I dont know if I mentioned Eddie Schreifels enough in here but he was steady Eddie after the restart and quietly without incident came home 2nd and looked every bit back on top of his game. He never let Victor get out of his sights and never got challenged for his position...Great job my friend..good to see ya back

Gary Hutchinson had a great run finishing 6th place even though he himself got banged around a bit.

Dee Black surprised everyone with a borrowed power plant to come home a respectable 7th place..

James Harrell finished in the top tne with an 8th place finish. Considering the handling problems James had earlier in the day and his qualifying position that was one helluva an accomplishment.

Wayne Alderman expected better but got into a couple of scuffles and lost a few spots but Wayne will be back…

Rooster got himself a 10th place with a junk set of tires and one engine down on compression..I know he had fun, he was fast in practice and qualified 9th..just got to get that thing thru the corners a little better

The rest of the field had assorted problems from bent rims, to chains, etc etc etc..and I’m sure they’ll pipe in on the forum at sometime to comment on what happened..

Big thanks to the FKA officials for providing the venue that allows us to pursue our passion and hobby in such a safe and competitive atmosphere..you guys are the best in the business bar none..

Also, almost forgot to thank our very own GrillDoggie for providing the cold cuts, drinks and sandwiches to feed this crew...along with Eddie for the TV, the video reviews afterwards, throw in a couple of cold ones and some great bench racing following a spectacular race with a bunch of Dogs and it dont get any better than that..

Congrats to Dee Black as he earned the award for “Longest Haul” sponsored by Mike Grady and Buller Built Clutches. Thanks guys..

Big Thanks to all fellow fans out there who enjoyed this as much as I did . We appreciate all the kind words and remarks after the race. From all the guys in the FAS to all of you we thank you and appreciate you..

See ya’ll in Jasper..

P.S. …just to let everyone know, Tim Taft and Ed Schreifels both have helmet cam videos and handheld videos coming soon for all your viewing pleasure..

 

 

 

This a quote from the SpeedGoddess on Bob's 4cycle.com

I ask all of you to read it and give what you can afford. 

Thank you

 

I have personally been involved in karting since 1974 in Southern Fla. In the many years that have passed I have met some of the finest people in the world through karting, from all walks of life, from all around the world. No matter where they came from, how much of how little money they made, or what they did for a living all things were equal once in the trackside pit area. It was these same fine people who I am pleased to call FRIENDS! I see racers come to the aid of a fellow racer in need. Some will offer help to those we have never met…some will give the shirts off of their backs to another they may have only met 25 minutes ago. WHY? Because we have shared a common bond….KART RACING! (Heck much of the time it never even involved a kart or a helmet, just a cooler full of beverages, a few lawn chairs, a hot sweaty afternoon and some good ole fashion bench racin!)
As racers we have also found another common bond …Bob’s 4 Cycle (www.4cycle.com) ! A place where all are welcome. Again offering equality and a helping hand. Here at Bobs we have a great friend who has always gone out of her way to help a fellow racer in need, a racing family who needs helping hand at the track and away. She has helped raise funds and get items for raffles. She has helped raise money needed for a fellow racer to help pay medical expenses. She has helped in more ways then I am able to list here. TRUST ME.

Just a few yrs ago she started organizing MOOSEFEST- the MUST do event while at WKA KARTFEST!
Now this wonderful woman and her family are in need. Though she never asked for help or indicated she needed any.

When Bob first started 4cycle.com many years ago our thread OK and SPEEDGODDESS was started by actually another racer; looking for advise. The thread has grown over the years to now include many NEW FRIENDS. The OK part of OK and Speedgoddess is Frankie O’Harrow of OK Corral Racing, AKA RED. While the past few years Frankie and her family have changed their involvement in the sport of karting from avid racer and trackside parts dealer, to trackside vendor , racing supporter, racing advocate and all around great friend! Frankie has always been apart of the Bobs 4 cycle web site. Shes more then a friend …she’s family. During this past fall Frankie and her family learned her daughter Lizzie now 19 was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer. Without insurance she’s found it hard to get the much needed treatment she requires. Surgery is needed and has been arranged through an area University. However the ongoing post surgical Chemotherapy is what’s going to be the hardest to not only get, but to pay for.

With this being said I ask for your support in helping this great family in their time of need. MOOSEFEST now in it’s 5th year is a major hit. Every year a charity is selected as a benefactor for 50-50 raffles, percentages of ticket sales etc….this year The O’Harrow family is the Charity. One of our own needs your support.

Frankie once again will be single handedly organizing the Moosefest at Hickory Saturday. Jan 24th 2009. Up til today she had no idea anyone had planned to make her daughter the benefactor of her years of hard work. If you are unable to attend and are still looking to somehow support this great event please help us collect donations of karting items, gift baskets with useful items to be raffled off and door prizes.

I would be happy to help collect items and donations for Moosefest. Ticket sales and details for Moosefest will be posted very soon. In the mean time I ask for your help and support. 19 is way to young to tell someone they can’t get cancer treatment.

Thank You- for taking the time to read this post and I hope you find you are able to somehow support this great event for one of own and her lovely young daughter. Help us help Lizzie fight her race against cancer and see it through to a checkered flag cure.

…On to the Winners Circle!

SpeedGoddess

 

 

“Christmas In Dixie” 

AKRA/FKA Dirt races on December 27 & 28, 2008

Parking & Pit Passes for CID will begin on December 26, 2008 at 12:00 noon - 8:00 pm.
Registration & Pre Tech: for CID will begin on December 26 at 12:00 noon - 6:00 pm.
Track will close at 8:00 pm on December 26, 2008 ( you may come and go w/ pit pass arm band)
Parking, Pit Passes & Registration will continue on December 27 at 7:00 am
Reserved Parking: $30 per spot ( includes asphalt parking ) or $15 one day asphalt parking
For reserved parking call Wade Murphy at 386-938-1228 or 386-938-3481 after 7:00pm
For Information: Bill McCutheon 704-764-8138 Jimmy Sims 386-938-4211
Membership in AKRA/FKA is not required for Christmas In Dixie program
Pit Pass: $25 for 2 day dirt program ( or $15 for one day ) 6 and under free unless racing
Pit Pass: $35 for all 3 days ( includes one day asphalt race ) or $15 for the one day Asphalt race
AKRA Tech rules apply. Open tire rule: (Slicks Only). NO Open flames! Min.snell 2000 helmet
Camping at track permitted. We have showers w/hot water. No electrical hookups.
Jr. karters bring birth certificates. Mufflers Required!!

Class Schedule ( dirt racing ) December 27
Saturday (8 am 2 rounds practice, qualify,race 20 laps )

Kid karts: (5-7) 17/64 gear 250#( non competition ) Trophy awards to all entries ( 12 laps )
1- Jr. 1 (8-10) 265# FH only ( purple plate )
2- Stock Lite ( 15 yrs old ) 325# FH only
3- Jr. Champ (12-15) 335# Anl ( black plate .575 ) FH ( No plate )
4- Stock Super Heavy FH Only 400# (max. kart wt. 200#)
5- Jr. 2 (10-12) 290# FH Only ( blue plate )
6- Senior Stock 375# FH Only
7- Box Stock Heavy 375# BSP engine only
8- Florida All-Stars
9- Animal Heavy 375#
10- Jr. Sportsman Champ (8-12) 315# FH Only (blue plate)
11- Sr. Champ Anl 425# FH 400#
12- Jr. 3 (12-15) Anl 320# (gold plate .505) FH 290# (gold plate .575)
13- Stock Heavy 375# FH Only

Class Schedule ( dirt racing ) December 28
Sunday (8 am 2 rounds practice, qualify, race 20 laps)

Kid karts: (5-7) 17/64 gear 250#( non competition ) Trophy awards to all entries ( 12 laps )
1- Jr. 1 265# FH only ( purple plate )
2- Sr. Champ Anl 425# FH 400#
3- Jr. Champ 335# Anl (black plate .575) FH ( No plate )
4- Jr. 2 FH Only 290# ( blue plate )
5- Box Stock Lite 325# BSP engine only
6- Jr. Sportsman Champ ( 8-12 ) 315# FH Only ( blue plate )
7- Animal Heavy 375#
8- Jr. 3 Anl 320# ( gold plate .505 ) FH 290# ( gold plate .575 )
9- Stock Super Heavy FH Only 400# ( max. kart wt. 200# )
10- Florida All-Stars
11- Stock Medium FH Only 350#
12- Box Stock Super Heavy 400# ( max. kart wt. 200# ) BSP engine only
13- Jr. Stock ( unrestricted ) FH Only

Entry Fee & Payouts for All Classes
All Classes are $55 Entry Fee
1st = $500 2nd = $200 3rd = $100 4th = $75 5th = $55

Note: Purse is based on minimum of 20 entries in a class, less than 20 entries is 80% payback

Monday (Dec 29) Asphalt Schedule

Gates Open: 7 am
Registration: 7 am – 9 am
Pre-Tech: 7 am – 9 am
Practice: 8 am (2 rounds)
Driver’s Meeting: to follow practice
Qualifying: to follow D. Meeting
Pole Award Present: during Pre-Race ceremonies

Monday, Dec 29th Class Order
1. Jr 1 (FH only/265 lbs)
2. Stock Med (FH only/350lbs)
3. Jr. Champ 335# / Anl (.575 blk plate) FH (No plate)
4. Jr. 2 (FH only/290 lbs)
5. Sr. Champ (Animal/425 lbs., Raptor/400 lbs.)
6. Box Stock Hvy 375# BSP engine only
7. Jr. Sportsman Champ (FH only/315 lbs)
8. Animal Heavy (375 lbs)
9. Senior Stock (FH only/375 lbs)
10. Jr. 3 (Animal/320#, Raptor 290#)
11. Stock Heavy (FH only/375 lbs)
12. Florida All-Stars
13. World 100 (FH 375 lbs/age 15)

Directions to track: Take I-75 to exit #460 (state rd. 6 ) Go West 5 miles ( track is on left )
No Refunds - No Exceptions
Join us this Holiday Season & enjoy Karting at its BEST!!!!

 

 

 

October 20th, 2008

Last race of the year guys..Crossroads Motorplex, Jasper Florida

WHEN: October 25, 2008
Pit pass is $15.00 (good for both Fri and Sat)
GATES OPEN: 7:00 AM (Saturday)
PRACTICE: 8:00 AM - 11:30 PM
QUALIFYING: 1:00pm BY CLASS
PROGRAM: QUALIFYING & FEATURE RACE IS 20 LAPS

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Day of Race REGISTRATION is from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Pre-Registration must be received one week before the race.

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TRACK OPENS AT 1:00 PM ON FRIDAY. OVERNIGHT
PARKING AVAILABLE

Practice on Friday night 5:30pm - 9:00pm $15

As a little added attraction..

Training Date @ Crossroads Speedway

I’ll will be holding an NRA “First Steps Pistol” class at Crossroads Speedway on October 24th from 3pm to 6pm Friday afternoon. Gates open 1pm. So come early if you can. This class is a firearm Safety class dealing with Semi-Auto handguns. This class upon completion will enable you to apply to the State of Florida for your Concealed Weapons License. Please go to www.Terry-Hall.org to sign up. Payment and registration in advance is required so I know how many student packets to bring along. I'll also have State of Florida Concealed Weapons Applications on hand to those who request them at no extra charge of course. The Florida License is good in 39 states as of this date. Thanks.

September 20th, 2008

Update..

Starting in 2009 the FAS will introduce 2 new experimental engine rules. These will be evaluated as the season progresses.

1- Any 255cc single cylinder 2 stroke engine

2- Any 510cc single cylinder 4 stroke engine.

Now,  I understand that there will be quite a few questions on "what weight"..I'll give all of you a short explanation and then type it up in detail later on..All engine rules as currently stated in the FAS Rules section will remain the same.. with the exception...If any of the maximum CC's are exceeded then your base minimum weight will automatically increase to 430lbs and the weight break goes away  with Kart and Driver. This change only pertains to single cylinder engines not twin engines or twin cylinder engines regardless of type. All twin cylinder/engine rules will remain the same no exceptions. No street bike motors will be allowed.  

For example: if someone is running a 210cc single cylinder 2 stroke his weight will be the standard base of 230+ 1lb per cc or 440lbs...by this rule you will still be allowed to run at 430lbs not 440lbs. If its a 250cc 2 stroke, you'll still be at 430lbs up to a maximum of 255cc's...

For all the 4 cycle engines, the rules again remain the same. You can still have your weight breaks until you exceed the Maximum allowed by the rules. If you choose to exceed those maximum cc's then your weight will automatically revert to the 510cc maximum rule with a base weight of 430lbs. Regardless if its OHV, OHC or Flathead. I will not make a distinction in how many cams or valves are allowed. DOHC engines with 4 valves will weigh the same as SOHC with 2 valves at this time. 

As I stated at the beginning this is experimental at this stage. I will not suggest an engine type but I can tell you that there is a proliferation of both 2 stroke and 4 stroke engines of this size that can be had for reasonable prices and have proven quite reliable..Just depends on you.

 

September 3, 2008

For those of you that are running the FAS and the UAS next year in 2009 please pay attention to the new UAS rule changes. Those changes that they have decided to implement will not be implemented next year in the Florida All-Star Series. All rules will remain the same in the FAS as they are now so don't go into panic mode wondering what we are going to do. I for one do not believe in the constant turmoil caused by changing the rules year after year unless it is in regards to safety. As most of you know, there are no voting rights here. This is not run by committee nor will it ever be. It is not democratic it is a dictatorship. Its worked that way for the past 8 years and will continue to do so. For those wondering about the Christmas in Dixie event the FAS rules will be applied even though we attract a considerable number of UAS members I will not compromise the FAS rules. I have indicated in past conversations that I am willing to try a 255cc single cylinder 2 stroke engine and/or a 505cc single cylinder 4 stroke engine however only on an exhibition basis for now. 

August 31, 2008

This front page is probably going to start looking like a personal blog if I keep typing my thoughts up here but hell I own the website so why not..Most of you already know what my new business start-up is but for those that don't I'm going to shamelessly plug it here on this site. This new business is "Firearms Training" and one of the reasons behind the retirement from the FAS. Most training will probably start out being held on weekends in order to get the business up and running as most people are off on weekends. As the business grows I'll start holding classes during the week and during regular working hours. If, and that is a big if, the business takes off within the next few months then I will consider coming back next year. These are some of the things talked about during the drivers meeting this weekend and in the FKA Hauler with their officials. The new website is up and running and training classes will begin sometime in October. For those wishing to obtain there Concealed Carry License or just want to further their knowledge of firearms and self defense tactics please call or email for more details. In the meantime you can pay a visit to www.Terry-Hall.org for a substantial amount of information to help you decide if its something you would like to do. 

 

August 30th Race #6 at Dirt Devils Speedway, Land O'Lakes Florida

We didn't get the race in as we got rained out. We still managed 2 rounds of practice and I guess you could say we came within 5 laps of qualifying to actually determining a winner. Oh well it is afterall summertime in Florida and it is Hurricane Season. By the way just to let ya'll know, I did get called to the FKA Trailer and got beat up by Jimmy Sims and others about my pending retirement..more news on that to follow. 

Retirement Notice

At the conclusion of this years racing with the Florida All-Stars/FKA I’ve decided to step down and retire from organized kart racing.  I’ll still maintain my Twin Yami/Apache  and hope in the near future to get back to having some fun in the seat again. Mostly just some local Saturday night gigs. No points, no trophies just get out there and bang some bars with friends. It’s been a fantastic last 8 years. What I will cherish the most is all the friendships and memories given to me from so many all over the country. 

What will happen to the Florida All-Stars/Dogpound?  They’ll still be around. After many private conversations with several of the “Dogs” to make them aware of  my decision I feel strongly someone will step up to the plate and be the next leader. If not? Well then I guess we will just fade off into the sunset. It’s been one helluva ride!! 

The reason for this announcement at this time is to give those who wish to see this series continue to grow and prosper,  a chance to discuss amongst themselves what direction they wish to go and how to approach the 2009 season. I will not appoint one nor will I try to influence their decision one way or the other. 

Reasons for retirement: To be honest, it has become a job for me. I created it, I take full responsibility, I made those decisions and I’ll live with them. At this time I will be embarking in a new business startup, and a new career. How much time and energy I will have to devote to racing is still yet unknown as most business owners understand that you never own the business it owns you. It wouldn’t be fair for me to continue and not devote the time and energy as I have in the past. There are other personal factors that have brought me to this decision however those will remain private. 

I want to thank all of you who have participated with us over the last 8-9 years for  providing me with so many great times and allowing me to be a part of your lives. There are so many racers, sponsors and friends that I wish to express my gratitude to that I’m afraid to list them for fear of leaving someone out. You know who you are, thank you.  I wish all of you much success.