"Dirt From The Stands"

Dirt from the Stands by Greg Cybulski

Ontario Promoter Takes Super Stocks To The Front

In the world of dirt track racing, you don't have to go very far to see which car classes garner the headlines on the internet and motorsports magazines. Open wheel and late model racing cover the majority of what is available for information-hungry race fans. Many dirt tracks will advertise specials with touring groups in these same classes. If you were to attend one of these special race events, the headliner would usually follow a local support car class. In many instances the support would come from Super Stocks.

What if the support class were to become the event's headliner? Emo, Ontario's Anthony Leek has done just that by taking the Wissota Super Stock class and creating the Northern Super Stock Touring Series. After going on a one-man crusade, getting help from some Winnipeg drivers to help move the concept along, to garner sponsorship for a driver's point's fund for the new series and getting an increased purse on race night, Anthony realized his goal. In it's inaugural run in 2007, the NSSTS made 3 tour stops at Emo Speedway, Ontario, Greenbush Race Park, MN and Winnipeg's Red River Co-op Speedway. A total of 44 race teams from Montana, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Ontario, Manitoba, and Wisconsin participated in the tour which has now grown to 4 dates for the 2008 race season with the addition of Bemidji Speedway, in Minnesota.

Although still in it's infancy, the Northern Super Stock Touring Series appears to have started out with a bang. With careful guidance and nurturing, it will become something race fans and teams can look forward to for many years to come.

A promoter is defined as "someone who tries to encourage something to happen or develop". If that is true, then Anthony Leek deserves the title of "Promoter".

If more people in racing would lose the word "CAN'T" from their vocabulary and replace it with the words "CAN DO", then maybe, just maybe we would all enjoy something a little more special on race day.

Until next time, take care and good racing.

Greg Cybulski

For more information on the NSSTS check out: http://www.northernsuperseries.com/index.htm

Dirt from the Stands by Greg Cybulski

News From Saskatchewan

     Well race fans, if there is anything that warms this reporter's heart, it's seeing healthy growth in Prairie Dirt country. That is what you will find at southeast Saskatchewan's premier dirt track facility, Estevan Motor Speedway in 2008.

     Already known as the host of one leg of the IMCA Dakota Classic Modified Tour which also includes tour stops at North Dakota's Nodak Speedway, Williston Basin Speedway, Southwest Speedway & Dacotah Speedway, Estevan has scheduled a series of race specials for 2008 that will have fans on the edge of their seats all season long. Summer heats up at EMS with the 2008 Dakota Classic Tour on Monday, July 7th.

     The rumors have been confirmed! The World of Outlaws Late Model Series will be invading Estevan Motor Speedway for the first time on Saturday, July 12th following their visit to River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks, ND. on Friday, July 11th as part of the "Wild West Tour" swing of their schedule. The Outlaws Late Models also have eastern Canadian dates at Ohsweken Speedway (June 19), Autodrome Drummond (June 21) and Cornwall Motor Speedway (June22). Additional information on this special event will be provided in the not too distant future.

     The Northern Late Model Racing Association will pay another visit to one of their favorite stops on the tour at the 3/8 mile, high banks on Saturday, July 26th and the Northern Outlaw Sprint Association makes it's annual visit on Saturday, August 9th.

     Speaking of sprint cars, please be sure to watch for an exclusive one-on-one feature with Estevan's own Kyle Fedyk as he shares his thoughts about racing across the prairies.

     Aside from it's specials, Estevan Motor Speedway provides one of the best weekly race programs on the prairies for the dirt track racing fan. It's fan-friendly atmosphere is perfect for a night out with the family. Western hospitality at it's best!

For more information about Estevan Motor Speedway, go to: http://www.estevanmotorspeedway.com/index.html

Until next time...

Take care and good racing,
Greg Cybulski

Prairie Dirt (2005)
http://ca.geocities.com/prairiedirt/home.html

Dirt from the Stands by Greg Cybulski

First News from the Canadian Prairies in 2008

     Well race fans, the 2008 racing season is getting closer and with it will be a different look. Some new, some old and some missing but definitely always interesting.

     In the new department, Red River Co-op Speedway, Winnipeg has a new track manager/promoter. Derek Pollock takes over the driver's seat with a sense of energy and excitement that should make for a great season of racing in Winnipeg. Prairie Dirt wishes Derek all the best in his new role.

     Winnipeg race fans will see their share of special races again in 2008. The annual Mid-Canada Sprint Car Challenge takes place on Thursday, July 10. Last year's event drew 21 Sprint Cars, the highest count in the event's short history. Late Models will be in the spotlight again as Winnipeg hosts 4 race nights, including a two night event featuring the Rumble Series Late Models on June 18 and 19. This series will be worth checking out.

     To the west, exciting rumors are still swirling about possible big Sprint Car and Late Model shows in the Estevan/Williston/Minot region. More to follow...

     Winnipeg's Sprint Car scene just got a little lighter as two of our racers have packed up their tents and moved on. Dave Sobczak has retired from the open wheel ranks following a stellar 2007 season which included his first feature win aboard his 17 sprinter. His win came the the Devil's Run Sprint Car Classic on June 2nd at Devil's Lake Speedway, ND. Prairie Dirt wishes Dave well in his future plans.

     After 7 years of racing, Richard Rogers has called it a career following an unfortunate turn of events early in the 2007 racing season. On a personal note, Richie was my hero for many reasons. Of all the racers in our region, it was a low budget race team from Winnipeg who lived the dream that most people romanticize about when they think of old school racing travels. Unlike some "home-based" teams, he left his comfort zone and dared to travel and experience new places (tracks) that he had never tried before and raced against people he had never previously met. In 2005, when a proposal was presented for teams in the Upper Midwest to travel to Castrol Raceway in Edmonton for the Gold Cup weekend, it was Richard Rogers who answered the call. He and his team traveled an incredible distance, racing in Winnipeg on a Thursday to Edmonton on Friday to race that night. He made the tow in 2005 and 2006. In 2007, when the call was made to participate with the Alberta Sprint Tour in the inaugural "Prairie Dirt Classic" in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, Richie answered instantly, without hesitation. My only regret is that the RX sprinter never got there to see it. Richard has always been a big supporter of Prairie Dirt and what I was trying to achieve. You will be missed my friend. Thank you just never seems enough.

Until next time...

Take care and good racing,
Greg Cybulski

Prairie Dirt
http://ca.geocities.com/prairiedirt/home.html
 

Dirt From The Stands by Greg Cybulski

A Prairie Dirt Family Christmas (2006)

Well race fans, here we are are once again, relaxing in the warmth of a
quiet evening's glow with the anticipation of another Christmas season upon
us. I sit before this keyboard with my favorite glass of yuletide cheer and
Christmas carols playing in the background. As I look back to the year that
was, I realize that one common theme keeps rising and that is family.

There are different families in our lives. My immediate family consists of
spouse Heather, son Aaron and daughter Brandi, mom Joyce, dad Edward and
brother Gord. There are others in my life as well, however, the newest is
my racing family. If I made a list of everyone who has touched my life in
racing in the past 5 years, I think I would have to fit them all in the
grandstands of Knoxville Raceway.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been a part
of and supported Prairie Dirt over the past five years. It has been an
incredible ride for my family and I as we have had the pleasure of meeting
many wonderful people in the racing community.

Some we have personally met and have grown strong friendships with, some we
have corresponded with while others, sadly, we have lost far too soon.

Some of my personal highlights of the 2006 racing season included taking a
ride in a stock car at Richard Petty's Driving Experience at Walt Disney
World, Florida in March. Even doing 3 laps gives one an appreciation of the
speed and power these cars possess on a race track.

Regretfully, my next experience was preparing a tribute for fallen friend,
Fred Brownfield which was read at Estevan Motor Speedway on July 1 by track
announcer Pat Boyle prior to the NOSA Sprint feature. Pat delivered the
tribute page with a reverence and feeling that the fans in attendance could
appreciate. As I stood in turn 4, listening and reflecting, I looked up at
the clear Saskatchewan sky, and somehow I knew that Fred was there with us
and giving his approval.
Once again, the good folks at Estevan Motor Speedway showed why EMS is one
of my favorite stops to see dirt track racing with their awesome hospitality
and family-oriented atmosphere.

Congratulations to Guy Budel and the crew at Red River Co-op Speedway for
putting on a first class race night for the fans at the 2nd annual NAPA Auto
Parts Mid-Canada Sprint Car Challenge here in Winnipeg. They were really
looking after the fans who had to park out on Highway 75 with a shuttle
service to and from the speedway. Now that's service! Thanks again to the
good folks at NAPA Auto Parts for their continued support of this special
race event.

Race fans, mark your calendars! The 3rd annual NAPA Auto Parts Mid-Canada
Sprint Car Challenge is set for Thursday, July 12 and promises to be bigger
and better than ever. Sprint Car fans can look forward to the debut of the
father and son team of Lou Kennedy Jr and son Thomas. Thomas will make his
Sprint Car debut in Winnipeg and run a limited schedule before taking over
the famous 21k Sprinter full time in 2008. Also confirmed is Fargo, North
Dakota's first lady, Natalie Sather, who with legendary veteran crew chief
Kenny Woodruff should provide for more excitement at Winnipeg's premier race
event.

Congratulations to the new kids on the block in 360 sprint car racing on a
successful inaugural season. The ASCS Northern Plains Region headed by
Chuck Zitterich made some waves in 2006 with shows in the southern part of
the Upper Midwest. Brainerd, MN appears to be a good stop for the N.P. as
they have 4 races slated for 2007, including the much publicized ASCS
National Tour.

The Northern Outlaw Sprint Association membership celebrated a series of
firsts in 2006. Scott Butz captured the NOSA points title for the first
time in 2006 with strong consistent performances. Dave Sobczak, Casey
Mack, John Lambertz picked up their first NOSA-sanctioned feature wins on
the NOSA Sprint Tour. Lambertz's win came at a new stop for NOSA at Dakota
State Fair Speedway in Huron, SD.

What a year for Mark Dobmeier. His stock as a driver just keeps going up.
Not only did he dominate at his home track of River Cities Speedway in Grand
Forks, ND, but he consistently showed strong performances all season long at
other tracks including Huset's Speedway and Knoxville Raceway. He capped
off the season with his first World of Outlaws feature win, subbing for the
first time in Brooke Tatnell's seat at Wilmot Speedway, WI. This was Mark's
first time to Wilmot. This reporter can't wait to see what he does for an
encore in 2007.

Congratulations to Schatz Motorsports on not only winning the World of
Outlaws points title in 2006, but for winning the highest honor in 410
Sprint Car racing, the Knoxville Nationals.

Looks like Ken Pelkie and Ohsweken Speedway have a winning formula going in
Ontario with another successful 360 Sprint venture following the 2nd Annual
Canadian Sprint Car Nationals in mid-September. It's good to see Sprint Car
racing growing north of the border as it is.

Another highlight of 2006 was being interviewed by Darren Pallen for the
sprint car special edition of Prairie Dirt Digest podcast.

In that interview I had stated the priorities in my life, that being family
and the family business and the importance of them to me. Right now, it is
my intention to devote more time to the family business.

Having said that, I am announcing that I will not be actively involved in
the promotion of sprint car racing for the 2007 racing season. Does this
mean the end of what I have started? Hardly. I will continue to keep my
finger on the pulse of the racing scene and return with a refreshed outlook
following my leave of absence.

I will continue to run Prairie Dirt (2005) in it's current form, showcasing
open wheel racing in Canada ,in our region, and in Australia during our
off-season, however, I will not pursue any other additional duties at this
time.

There is a place in Manitoba where a majesty of diverse wild ground, all
creatures great and small and a man's soul come together as one. This is my
refuge from the daily battle in the concrete jungle called the city. If I
am nowhere to be found, that is where I will be. My little peace on earth,
God's Country.

On behalf of the Cybulski family, I would like to wish you all a Merry
Christmas and many Blessings in the New Year.

God willing, I will see all my racing friends at a dirt track again in 2007.

Take care and good racing,
Greg Cybulski
 

"Dirt from the Stands" by Greg Cybulski

Racing Bonanza in 2006

Well race fans, this may be your year to see the biggest variety of dirt
track racing in our region in quite some time. Whether you are a fan of
Motocross, Late Models, 360 sprints or 410 Outlaw sprints, it's all here for
you in 2006 right in our own back yard. Let's check out some of the
highlights...

The newly formed ASCS Northern Plains Region under the guidance of Chuck
Zitterich will pay visits to North Central Speedway in Brainerd, Minnesota
as well as Jamestown Speedway and Dacotah Speedway in North Dakota in 2006.
The balance of the 2006 regional schedule is south of the North Dakota -
South Dakota line.

The biggest racing news in our region has to be the inclusion of Nodak
Speedway as part of the ASCS National Tour Yes, this reporter's all-time
favorite sprint car driver, Gary Wright and company will be invading Minot,
ND. on June 10 and 11.

The Northern Outlaw Sprint Association has yet to release it's 2006 schedule
at the time of this writing, however, an ambitious race schedule has been
promised.

The World of Outlaws returns to Fargo, ND in June for two shows in
conjunction with the Red River Valley Fair. The bigger news is that the
Outlaws will be making a trip to Nodak Speedway in Minot on Saturday, August
19.

The folks in Minot must be feeling very proud, having signed two of the
nation's biggest sprint car tours this season. The atmosphere at Nodak
Speedway for these shows will be electric.

Finally, the newly formed National Sprint Tour under the guidance of
Brownfield Promotions, Inc., will make an appearance at River Cities
Speedway in Grand Forks, ND . Steve Kinser, Danny Lasoski and company will
bring their high-flying 410 sprint show to the North Dakota bull ring on
July 7 and 8

Victory Lane Speedway with Prairie Dirt website are pleased to present the
2nd Annual Mid-Canada Sprint Car Challenge set for Thursday, July 13.
Details will be released as they become available.

Speaking of Victory Lane Speedway, fans will have a real treat at the
facility this season as the older wooden bleachers have been replaced with
an all new grandstand seating for fan comfort. The parking lot space has
been increased to accommodate a larger volume of traffic in 2006. Other
upgrades will be made in time for the start of another exciting season of
racing at Victory Lane Speedway.

The most noticeable difference will be the infield which is going to be used
by the Manitoba Motocross Association for two big weekends in 2006. The
dirt bikes will invade VLS on the weekends of June 10 & 11, and August 5 &
6.

The Northern Late Model Racing Association will visit Victory Lane three
times in 2006. The dates are Thursday, June 15, Thursday, August 17 and
Saturday, September 9. With all the specials this season, Winnipeg race
fans will get their money's worth of entertainment at VLS.

Emo Speedway, ON. will once again be hosting the NOPA Super Trucks on
Saturday, June 17. From the positive response of fans and the teams to last
year's truck race, fans can expect another good show in 2006.

No matter what your car preference is, there will be plenty of racing to go
around in 2006.

In my next column, I will have more information about the upcoming
Mid-Canada Sprint Car Challenge including a preliminary list of participants
for this year's event. As always, the kid saves a few aces up his sleeve
for next time. I will talk about some exciting things happening out west in
Saskatchewan and Alberta for 2006.

Until next time, take care and good racing,
Greg Cybulski

Prairie Dirt (2005)
http://ca.geocities.com/prairiedirt/home.html
 

"Dirt from the Stands" by Greg Cybulski

A Prairie Dirt Christmas (2005)

Well race fans, here I sit in my comfortable chair with my favorite glass of
holiday cheer, taking in the sweet musical stylings of Manitoba jazz pianist
Michelle Gregoire's CD, "Reaching". Yes, ol' NOSAfan's taste goes much
deeper than dirt. Jazz music is as much a part of me as dirt track racing.
What's the connection? Michelle Gregoire's brother is local racer Dan
Gregoire. Having said that, "Support Your Local Outlaws" has applied to
many aspects of my life.

You can find Michelle Gregoire's website at http://www.michellegregoire.com

With your kind permission and patience, I would like to give you a little
inside look at my life in and out of dirt track racing.

My wife Heather and I are Sunday school teachers and one Sunday in early
November, the lesson for our class was about talents. The theme was how God
gives everyone a special talent and how it is up to each one of us to use
that talent to share with others. The more we got into the lesson with the
children, the more I realized that what I am doing right now by writing is
indeed a special talent to be shared with people.

In 2001, my ride began with the creation of a small website simply called
NOSAfan's Website. For whatever reason, I decided it would fun to write
some of my race experiences down on the homepage. The writings were short
and sweet but it was enough to catch the eye of fellow Winnipeg webmaster
Don McAuley of SprintsNMidgets. Don asked me if I would be interested in
writing a periodic racing column for him. I agreed and the rest as they say
is history. Eventually I got a few more requests for my column and "Dirt
from the Stands" became part of the scenery on racing websites from all over
North America.

In 2003, I came to a crossroad of sorts as I decided to give my website a
new direction and purpose. On March 17, 2003 the website's name was changed
from NOSAfan's website to Prairie Dirt. I wanted to give myself and the
website it's own identity. "Prairie Dirt" not only represents racing on the
prairies but is also a reflection of who I am as a person. I was born and
raised on the prairies of Manitoba and ultimately I will most likely leave
this world as a Manitoban. To me, "Dirt" is symbolic of my love of the
great outdoors and prairie life, my mortality and my Christian faith.

2003 had a big impact on my life. In the spring of that year, my
mother-in-law passed away suddenly and following a very frustrating summer,
my family and I were about ready to burst. Heather and I agreed that the
summer had to end on a good note, so we decided to travel to Knoxville and
Huset's Speedway to take in a weekend of Sprint Car racing and visit with
friends.

On our way back to Sioux Falls, I had made arrangements to meet with Hot Rod
Pattison and be part of his pre-race radio show from Huset's Speedway.
During my interview, Hot Rod asked me if NOSA raced up in Winnipeg and I
awkwardly told him, "No". I offered a brief explanation as to why they were
not racing there and I added that hopefully with time, they would come up
and race at Victory Lane Speedway again one day.

One month to the day of that interview, I received an email from Estevan
Motor Speedway board member Darcy Walker. Estevan was kicking around the
idea of hosting a sprint car show in 2004. He wanted to know what I
thought. Well, what I thought ended up turning into organizing a sprint car
show in Estevan, Saskatchewan. I put my writing to the test with press
releases, emails, and columns all aimed at one date, August 14, 2004. The
experience left me emotionally drained but feeling very satisfied about what
I had accomplished.

In November of 2004, I had resolved to take a year off from writing so I
could turn my attentions to other aspects of my life. Within one week of
that decision, I was contacted by Guy Budel of Victory Lane Speedway and the
cycle began again. Some of my efforts have been very successful while
others have failed, but that has never stopped me from trying my best.

Let me say here and now, I didn't go looking for any of these opportunities
in my life. None of this is about notoriety, monetary gain or ego. I have
no personal ties or interests with anyone involved with racing. Everything
I've done so far with regards to racing has always been and will always
continue to be about one thing and one thing only...

God has given me the gift of communicating with the written word. I do not
know where this journey will ultimately lead me, but I do know that it is
not over yet. I have faith that He will guide me every step of the way.
The one thing I do know to be true is that I have made many good friends
along the way.

On behalf of the Cybulski family, I would like to wish you all good health
and joyful hearts through the holiday season and in 2006.

Merry Christmas.

Greg Cybulski

Prairie Dirt (2005)
http://ca.geocities.com/prairiedirt/home.html

Prairie Dirt Forum
http://prairiedirt.proboards57.com


 

"Dirt from the Stands" by Greg Cybulski

The Wissota Sprints of Red River Valley Speedway

Some of my most fondest Sprint Car memories came from the half mile at Red
River Valley Speedway, West Fargo, ND.

I saw my first World of Outlaws race there. Having said that, I also
discovered that the supporting class, the Wissota Sprints put on a better
"race" for the fans than the World of Outlaws. One year at "Duel in the
Dakotas", Jake "The Snake" Peters and Lou Kennedy Jr put on a passing clinic
all three nights. Another night, I watched a distant Loren Langerud come
out of nowhere to grab a win on the last lap at the half mile. I drove to
Fargo with a friend of mine late April one year for a double features night,
froze my butt off and got sick because of it. It was worth every kleenex
and cough drop. I have watched in shock as some of my racing friends
flipped over the unforgiving cement wall at Red River Valley Speedway. Most
wrecks are not pretty there.

I also did some of my best thinking, sitting in the grandstands patiently
waiting for my favorite car class to roll out. I remember just looking out
on the horizon on a clear North Dakota night and being able to see forever.
I felt totally free and alive out there while I was patiently waiting for
the Wissota Sprints.

The best thing about going to Fargo was that you just never knew who was
going to show up to race on Friday nights. In a sense it was like opening
Forrest Gump's box of Cracker Jack to see what the prize would be. All that
is gone now. Sprint Car racing in North Dakota has been turned upside down
AGAIN.

Although nobody wanted to see it happen, I suppose the gun had been smoking
for the Wissota Sprints long before the announcement was made about which
classes would be running in 2006. A few years ago, Red River Valley
Speedway had tried to drop the Sprint class from it's weekly program but was
denied thanks to the efforts of people who cared. After reflecting upon
this moment in time, there was plenty of time to reload and fire again. It
was inevitable, wasn't it?

Now we must say goodbye to our fallen brothers and sisters who were the
Wissota Sprints of Red River Valley Speedway. Thanks for the memories....

There is a new wind blowing on the prairies. It is building momentum and
heading our way. Are we to ignore it's presence and seek shelter or embrace
it like the first warm breeze of a cool spring day? Spring time represents
renewal and new life. The winds of change are almost upon us. Now is the
time for renewal and I for one will be at the front door awaiting it's
arrival. Stay tuned...

Take care and good racing,
Greg Cybulski

Prairie Dirt (2005)
http://ca.geocities.com/prairiedirt/home.html

Prairie Dirt Forum
http://prairiedirt.proboards57.com


 

"Dirt From The Stands" by Greg Cybulski

"Dirt Dreamer"

Well race fans, it's been about one month since Victory Lane Speedway's NAPA Auto Parts Mid Canada Sprint Car Challenge took place and ol' NOSAfan has finally surfaced. What this month has allowed me to do is sit back and reflect a bit about what has been accomplished this year and what direction your's truly will steer the good ship Prairie Dirt into the future.

I am a dreamer. Ever since I was a young lad growing up in the prairies of Manitoba, staring up at the clouds and marveling at the different shapes they formed, I've always had a good imagination. In today's fast-paced world of facts, figures and deadlines rushing by, it would seem that the average person has lost their ability to kick back, relax and dream away the day as in our youth. Even I admit to be guilty of that from time to time. That is why I value my quiet time with my family or by myself.

I am also a race fan. Having said this, when you have a race fan who is a dreamer, one never knows what can come of it. About five years ago, Victory Lane Speedway near Winnipeg, Manitoba hosted Sprint Car racing for what we all thought was the last time. I called it "Black Sunday".

During the next four years or so I used to think about what I would do if I had the opportunity to promote racing. How could I, if given the opportunity, make a difference in the way racing could be presented to make it bigger and better than it was before for everyone involved. The track, the fans and the teams.

To this day, I can not say for sure what it was that started the whole ball rolling, all I know is that sometimes dreams do come true. I promoted my first sprint car race in 2004 at Estevan Motor Speedway, SK and from there, two races this year. One for Victory Lane Speedway and then a return engagement at Estevan in September of this year. In both instances, so far, the results have been full houses of race fans and decent fields of cars to put on good shows. Promoting, however, is not a one man job. There are so many people involved in making a show of happen, that they are too numerous to count and not one is more important than the other. Trust me.

I feel truly blessed to have met so many great people in the racing community over the past few years of my life. Promoters, drivers and crews, photographers, race fans, chaplains and many more have all been part of my life in one way or another. Every one of them has been an inspiration to me.

As the old saying goes, a rolling stone gathers no moss. Not soon after the July 14 race in Winnipeg, this race fan started to look towards 2006 and beyond. Stay tuned.

Now, for a quick look at the local racing scene. The young guns are showing the way in the NOPA Street Stock division in 2005. Lead by the smooth driving style of Hallock, MN's Steffan Snare, both he and Winnipeg's Shane Edginton have put on some great shows for the fans at Victory Lane this season. Although, Snare leads VLS in wins with 8 and also leads the NOPA
points race, it is the consistent top 5 finishes of Sheldon Vankooten that puts him on top of the Street Stock track points chase with only a few races remaining. What is keeping Snare out of the number one spot? Three missed races. Winnipeg's Ashley Donald, despite having troubles on her home track, is sitting in third place in NOPA points, thanks to travels to River Cities Speedway, Greenbush and her favorite, Rocket Speedway in Hallock, MN.

One division I have been watching more closely lately has been the NOPA 4 Cylinder class. One driver who should be in contention for the most improved, is the #48 of Jerome Guyot. Jerome likes running the high side and after watching him race not only weekly but also in a few Enduros, I would say the young man from Fannystelle, Manitoba is quite comfortable pushing the cushion. It makes one wonder if he will have designs on a Street Stock in the future.

Winnipeg's Trevor Rambow just keeps getting better and has earned the name "Mr Consistency" from this Dirt guy. The Bradley Racing #3, 4 Cylinder Enduro machine is about as consistent as anyone out on a Saturday night at Victory Lane Speedway. His top 5 finishes have him looking at a shot at the 2005 VLS points title. At last report he was sitting in second place.

Why is a Sprint Car junky watching the 4 Cylinder class? Stay tuned.

In NOPA Super Trucks, Jacques Beaulieu of St. Francois Xavier, MB. sits atop the NOPA points after 16 shows. He is currently running second to Winnipeg's Stu Fraser for the VLS track title.

Although not in the bag yet, Bill Mooney of Garson, MB appears to almost have a lock on another Wissota Super Stock title at Victory Lane Speedway.

In the Wissota Modified division, Kevin Sexton looks to reclaim his track title with only a few races remaining.

The best move by a track this season is by Rocket Speedway to include the NOPA Super Trucks regularly in their shows. By far, the most entertaining class in NOPA. If you don't believe me, just ask the good folks at Emo Speedway, ON. My 2 cents.

Mini Sprint racing seems to be picking up some in our region. The NOMSA Mini Sprints from Greenbush will be making a weekend, 2 night stint at Rocket Speedway, Hallock, MN on August 27 and 28 before returning for the big Greenbush finale on Labor Day weekend, September 3 and 4.

Out West, the Estevan/Williston Mini Sprints will be doing some traveling with trips to Swift Current, Saskatchewan on August 20 and then being a part of Minot, North Dakota's annual Motor Magic at Nodak Speedway on Labor Day weekend.

It would appear that tempers have flared over the track conditions of River Cities Speedway. After reading comments on local message boards regarding the Gold Cup race of Friday, August 19, hopefully this situation will be addressed.

One final note, no matter what they throw at him, the #13, 410 Outlaw sprinter of Mark Dobmeier keeps on winning at River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks, ND. He's the hottest driver in North Dakota right now, bar none. So I ask, why isn't he racing at the famous half-mile in Knoxville, Ia. every Saturday night? I sincerely wish to see this happen for Team 13 in 2006. My 2 cents.

That's about it for now race fans. Next time, I hope to have a big announcement for you. It will be worth the wait.

Take care and good racing,
Greg Cybulski
 

"Dirt from the Stands"

Big Three Coming For "Challenge"

Loren Langerud #56 in action at Red River Valley Speedway, Fargo, ND

(photo by Tim Johnson)

By Greg Cybulski

Winnipeg, MB. - Well race fans, the season is young but I can tell you that things are heating up in the Winnipeg area already. Finally the big news I've been waiting patiently to announce. The three hottest names in North Dakota sprint car racing will be at Victory Lane Speedway for the inaugural "NAPA Auto Parts Mid Canada Sprint Car Challenge". Who are the big three? Current NOSA points champion Mark Dobmeier of Grand Forks, former six-time NOSA points champion Wade Nygaard of Fargo, ND and former two-time Wissota National points champion Loren Langerud of Harwood, ND.

Unless you've been hiding under a rock, there's no way to dispute that Loren Langerud is Mr. Versatility when it comes to exploring the open wheel class to it's fullest. With a 360 Sprinter, he's nailed down 2 consecutive Wissota National points titles (2002, 2003), as well as winning the track championship on the half-mile at Red River Valley Speedway in West Fargo, ND
since 2003 .

2004 was Loren's breakout year when he started using a 410 with some success, but his pivotal moment came during the 2004 World of Outlaws-sanctioned "Duel in the Dakotas". In front of a packed grandstand at Red River Valley Speedway, Langerud wowed the crowd by leading most of the World of Outlaws "A" Main until being overtaken by Joey Saldana in
lapped traffic late in the race.

He then backed up that performance by winning one of the most prestigious 360 Sprint events in North America by winning the Brodix Tournament of Champions event at Knoxville Raceway, Ia. in August prior to the Knoxville Nationals.

Mark Dobmeier is making his presence felt again in 2005 by not only running races at his home track of River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks, ND and with the NOSA Sprint Tour, but he's spreading his wings and heading south more frequently these days. Since the start of the 2005 racing season, Mark has been a steady competitor at Knoxville Raceway, Ia and Huset's Speedway, SD. Since NOSA's races are strictly short track, Mark's only missing link has
been seat time on half mile tracks. He has shown steady improvement each time out at Knoxville and if this continues who knows what new opportunities could open for him. With this experience on the famous half-mile, it should be interesting to see how he performs at this year's "Duel in the Dakota's" in West Fargo on July 1 and 2. Stay tuned!

Wade Nygaard of Fargo, ND has history at Victory Lane Speedway and good history at that. Under the wrenches of Doug Slocum, Wade rattled off 6 consecutive NOSA points titles which included wins at VLS and also made his presence felt as a regular at Jackson Speedway, MN, Huset's Speedway, SD. as well as various Wissota-sanctioned events. As a driver, Wade's skills are as good as any in the game. Despite a short absence, the familiar #9 is back weekly at River Cities Speedway and on the NOSA Sprint Tour in 2005. The difference is, this time, Wade is the boss of his own race team, and from what he has told me, he likes being the boss just fine.

I had the opportunity to speak to Minot, ND's native son, Greg Nikitenko in Fargo last weekend following another rainout for the region. Greg confirmed that the #6 Sprinter will be in the hunt for the $1500 to win in Winnipeg on July 14. Look for the #6 to be traveling further south later in the 2005 season. For all you t-shirt collectors, Nikitenko Motorsports is selling a very cool racing t-shirt this year for $20 each.

Winnipeg's Richard Rogers is fired up following his first career heat win at River Cities Speedway last Friday night. He took the checker flag with a convincing half lap lead over the competition. The feature was rained out, but when they line up for the makeup race, the new RX of Rogers will be on the pole. Richard and his crew seem to have a handle on this car. Who was the former owner of this Sprinter? Greg Nikitenko. Do you get the feeling that team RX is thinking about July 14 right now too?

In the season opener in Grand Forks, Winnipeg's Lou Kennedy Jr posted a top 3 finish behind winner Mark Dobmeier and Wade Nygaard. That's not bad company to be with. With Lou Jr winning the first "Prairie Dirt Challenge" last year in Estevan, I'm sure he'll be ready to back it up with another good run at Victory Lane. Look for the next generation of Kennedy's to be
entering the winged open wheel ranks in the not too distant future.

I am very pleased to announce that there are currently verbal confirmations from 19 Sprint Car teams from 2 provinces (Manitoba and Saskatchewan) and 3 states (North Dakota, Minnesota and South Dakota) with more pending for the "NAPA Auto Parts Mid Canada Sprint Car Challenge" race in Winnipeg.

The next issue of "Dirt from the Stands" will feature a special preview to this event as well as news from the region and beyond.

Well, that's about it for this time race fans. If it ever stops raining, I might get to take in some local racing and give you a report but you know how that goes. This has got the be the worst start to a racing season I have ever witnessed. I don't know about you, but when I enter the doors of St. Emile's Church in Winnipeg tomorrow morning, I'm going to be praying extra hard for the sun. Join me, won't you?

Take care and good racing.
Greg Cybulski

Prairie Dirt
http://www.racercity.com/members/fanpage/gecwpg
 

"Dirt From the Stands" by Greg Cybulski

Slinging Dirt In 2005

Well race fans, we're only a matter of days from dropping the green flag on another season of racing and I for one am looking forward to it. The best part about starting anew is you get to use your imagination to do a little dreaming and think about what might be in 2005. I like to dream, perhaps too much in the wrong places, but I always find it fun to think about the possibilities in racing.

So without further adieu, I would like to present to you some things in racing that I will be watching for in 2005 and perhaps a few predictions too.

Locally, I can't think of a rivalry that is building up more heat than Wissota Modified racers Kevin Sexton and track champion Nolan Olmstead of Badger, MN. Problems early in the season for Kevin gave Nolan all the space he needed to capture the 2004 Victory Lane Speedway Modified track championship. Although Sexton had a strong second half, the damage had been done and he was unable to catch up to the aggressive Olmstead. This will not be a match up to miss in 2005.

Can anyone really challenge NOPA/Wissota Super Stock points champion Bill Mooney in 2005? The last person to do it was Tom Balcaen. Tom has since moved on to the NLRA Late Model Tour. Unless another team mounts a quick start out of the gates and stays consistent all season, this one could be over by Mid-Season. Best bet for a rival at Victory Lane, Mike McCaughan.

Speaking of the Balcaens, I'll be curious to see how George Balcaen does in his sophomore year behind the wheel of his #14 Super Stock. Want to bet it's not too long before he is in the hunt for a points championship?

In the NOPA Street Stock class, all I have to say is two words, Steffan Snare. Watching this young driver is a treat. Smooth driving style, good equipment and a good head on his shoulders. Can you really ask for anything more in a racer? If he ever moves out of the Street Stock class, I wonder what he'll do for an encore?

I'm really a NOPA Super Truck fan. There I said it. No wings, no open wheels, but mud slinging, wide open, no fear racing. Anyone who's seen Stu Fraser run from the tail to the front knows exactly what I'm talking about. I'm glad this class is in the middle of the program at Victory Lane Speedway. It gets me tuned up for the rest of the night.

River Cities Speedway will be the place to be if you want to see the most intense rivalry of the year in Sprint Car racing. Not too long ago people were talking about Wade Nygaard and Brad Pake as the show stoppers. Now in 2005, "The Sheriff", Wade Nygaard is returning to race full time in Grand Forks and with the NOSA Tour. Although Mark Dobmeier is the man to beat, don't be surprised if this rivalry turns into one of the hottest points races in years.

With Nodak Speedway holding a big money sprint car race in mid-June, is anyone going to bet against Minot's native son, Greg Nikitenko? I wouldn't.

Expect to see team Dobmeier making some early Knoxville and Huset's dates this season. It'll be fun to see what the Grand Forks native can do against some of the toughest competition anywhere in the US. If Mark gets off to a good start in the points race at Huset's, you know where I would want him to be on Sunday nights.

My top three races from 2004 goes like this:

3. Lou Kennedy Jr's win at Estevan Motor Speedway, SK. This is not Greg the promoter talking now, but Greg the race fan. You could not have scripted the finish any better. Lou held off charges by Chris Shirek and Mark Dobmeier to capture the checkered flag that night. This race had everyone on the edge of their seats.

2. Loren Langerud's second place finish to Joey Saldana at last year's World of Outlaws sanctioned "Duel in the Dakotas". Having one of the local good guys come within a few laps of beating the Outlaws just got everyone whipped into a frenzy. I can't remember when I've yelled so much. I can't imagine what would have happened if Loren had won the feature.

1. I didn't have to look very hard to find my number one race in 2004. The event was the "Canadian Classic" and a special night that belonged to Kevin Sexton. Kevin pulled off the double by winning not only the Wissota Modified feature but then buckled into his Late Model and captured the checkered flag for his first NLRA win in front of his home town fans. It looked like second was Kevin's fate until John Seitz lost his motor and pulled off giving Sexton the lead. Despite intense pressure from the NLRA veterans including Mike Balcaen, Kevin maintained his lead and went on to win his second feature of the evening.

Have you noticed that I haven't mentioned anything about the "Mid Canada Sprint Car Challenge" on July 14th at Victory Lane Speedway in this column? Until now.

Stay tuned for some big announcements coming in the next issue of "Dirt from the Stands".

Take care and good racing,
Greg Cybulski

Prairie Dirt
http://www.racercity.com/members/fanpage/gecwpg


 

"Dirt from the Stands" by Greg Cybulski

February Rants, Raves and Racing

Well race fans, ol' NOSAfan is trying to cope with an extended period of cold weather that is keeping the snow around these parts. That, however, doesn't stop the racing machine from moving forward. The Winnipeg area has been very busy lately with racing news.

Victory Lane Speedway is running three big specials for the dirt track faithful with the NorthernLate Model Racing Association Tour paying two visits in 2005, on Thursday, May 26 and Saturday, September 10 for the annual "Canadian Classic". The third event of the summer will be the "Inaugural Mid Canada Sprint Car Challenge" race set for Thursday, July 14. I say inaugural because it looks like there is a long term commitment to have Sprint Car racing back in Manitoba by the new management team at VLS. Be sure to watch for more updates in the coming weeks. If you think this event looks good so far, wait until you see the final package.

Victory Lane Speedway's webmaster, Vincent Proteau, has set up an information page exclusively for the Sprint Show and it looks great! Be sure to keep up with the latest news by logging onto http://www.victorylane.mb.ca/midcanadasprintcarchallenge.htm

In Late Model news, it looks like the LM population keeps increasing as two more Manitoba drivers will add their names to the NLRA roster this season as Wissota Modified racers Les Pritchard and Dan Gregoire have purchased cars. At this rate of growth, could a Canadian division of the NLRA be in this organization's future?

In a joint effort, Emo Speedway, ON and Victory Lane Speedway will be working together to share information and collaborate on improving racing in both venues. With enthusiastic pro-racing people like Emo's Anthony Leek and VLS's Guy Budel, this can only mean good things for the future of both tracks. Emo Speedway is scheduled to host one of my favorite classes, the NOPA Super Trucks on June 25th.

What a difference a few years make. Prior to the 2004 racing season, I had written a rather negative article for a US based newspaper about the overall state of Sprint Car racing in North Dakota. When people write articles it captures a moment in time. A picture if you will. At that time, the state of our sport was very volatile and I gave my 2 cents worth about it. But unlike some main-stream media columnists, I offered some solution to the problems that I was writing about.

Now a mere two years later, Sprint car racing seems to have gained in popularity again and at a rapid pace. I do not know what the turning point was but I for one am glad it has happened. Don't get me wrong, this doesn't mean that everything is perfect, but it is a good start. I enjoy driving South and seeing Sprint car racing in different parts of the country, but it's nice to know that we have more opportunities to watch the winged warriors closer to home.

Now my rant for the day. I know we all have our favorites in racing. This past Sunday afternoon the Cybulski family watched the Daytona 500 on FOX. We drew our battle lines as always and during the race the neighbors could here us as we cheered and jeered during our afternoon of quality family time. What struck me as odd was the dead silence of the broadcast crew on the final yellow flag of the race. According to NASCAR's rules, when the yellow is thrown, the field is frozen as is for the restart. The restart order was to begin with Jeff Gordon, then Dale Earnhardt Jr and so on. The camera leaves the track and the announcers talked about Dale Jr the whole time like he was leading the race. Not one mention of Jeff Gordon. Finally the camera goes back to the cars and sure enough Jeff Gordon leads the pack. Now I'm not one to normally complain but it seems to me that if I am a "paid professional", it is my duty to report what is happening accurately and keep the fans informed. The guys at FOX dropped the ball big time in my eyes and I'm sure for many others. Either the current announcers need to check their bias at the door on race day or FOX should look for announcers who can deliver the goods to the fans. My 2 cents.

Take care and good racing.
Greg Cybulski

Prairie Dirt
http://www.racercity.com/members/fanpage/gecwpg
 

"Dirt from the Stands" 

by Greg Cybulski

A Christmas Reflection (2004)

Freedom. A word that is used a lot these days. Whether it be in terms of fighting for it or being able to do something without having restrictions, we all enjoy freedom. As I sit here in my favorite comfortable chair with a glass of my annual yuletide cheer pondering what to say, I can't help but think about what the past year has brought us all.

2004 was a breakout year for me personally. I tried my hand at some new things in the racing world which to some may not seem like much, but to myself was an eye-opening experience. In May, my family and I made our first visit to Nodak Speedway in Minot, ND where we took in some sprint car racing featuring the Northern Outlaw Sprint Association. The difference for me was that I was in the infield trying to photograph cars on the track. I actually surprised myself at how well the photos turned out. Watching racing from the infield gives one a different appreciation for the power, speed and beauty of dirt track racing.

Promotion was next on my agenda, as I spent most of the year helping promote Estevan Motor Speedway's first sprint car race. I've covered this topic at great lengths already during the season, however, what i did not say before is that the people in charge put their trust and faith in me to do the best possible job on their behalf. I was truly humbled by this showing of trust they had in someone whom they had never really met until race day. For that I am grateful and will always remember August 14, 2004.

There was much happening in 2004, as we saw Grand Forks, ND native Mark Dobmeier come within one race of capturing the 410 Outlaw Sprint points title at Huset's Speedway, SD. A costly lost engine in the season-ending feature prevented Mark from taking home the prestigious title. Look for bigger and brighter things in Mark Dobmeier's future.

Loren Langerud made heads turn with another strong showing at Red River Valley Speedway in West Fargo, ND capturing another Wissota sprint points title. He also came within a few laps of winning a World of Outlaws feature at the same RRVS in July. Had Langerud won that race, I believe the fans really would have torn down the grandstands. He then backed that performance up by winning the Brodix Tournament of Champions race at Knoxville Raceway, Ia. The ToC race is one of the biggest 360 Sprint events anywhere in North America featuring the best 360 racers from Canada and the US.

I don't know about you but I'm going to miss Brad Pake behind the wheel of a sprint car next year. The Felton, MN native has officially retired from the sport and we wish him well. There has been much talk about who will replace Pake in the #64 Bergstrom Electric sprint in 2005. Stay tuned!

Local sprint car racer Richard Rogers will be sporting his new X sprinter in 2005 as he acquired one of Greg Nikitenko's cars recently. Expect to see the X moving to the front next season. Speaking of Greg Nikitenko, the Minot, ND native may have an opportunity of a lifetime as Nodak Speedway is planning on hosting about 7 sprint shows in 2004, enough to crown a track points champion. Greg's "win it or wear it" attitude at Nodak may win him the title on his home track.

My wife, Heather, and I had the opportunity to attend the Victory Lane Speedway awards banquet in October and had a great time. We were seated with the Guyot family of Fannystelle, MB. Don Guyot finished third in the NOPA/Wissota Street Stock division as well as picking up the most improved driver award in the Street Stock class. Don's son Jerome, who was also in attendance, races in the NOPA 4 Cylinder Pure Stock division. We're looking forward to meeting with them again at the track next season.

The Biggest News entering 2005 is the return of Sprint Car racing to my home track of Victory Lane Speedway, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The new management team at VLS have expressed a desire to host the highflying open wheel class once again. The last Northern Outlaw Sprint Association show held in Winnipeg was back on May 30, 2000. This will mark two Canadian stops for the NOSA Sprint Tour next season including a return engagement to Estevan Motor Speedway. New management, new track, new attitude. You gotta love it. Watch for details coming soon!!!

I had stated at the beginning of this column that freedom was something we all enjoy. Having said that, at times I feel North America as a whole takes these freedoms for granted. There is a reason we are free to express ourselves, go to the races, write and speak our minds. It is because of some brave men and women who care enough to help make sure we maintain our freedoms here. Some will not enjoy Christmas dinner in the company of friends and loved ones at home. Some will not come home at all. Wherever they may be stationed, they do it for our benefit and a thankless job it is to serve your country. I am speaking, of course, about the brave men and women of our armed forces. God Bless you all and thank you for what you do for us here at home.

This year's annual Christmas column is dedicated to one such brave young man. Captain Ross Nairne was born in Winnipeg and lived most of his life in Brandon, MB. His and his wife currently reside in Edmonton, AB. where he is a Staff Officer with the Land Forces - Western Division. Today Captain Nairne is one of almost 700 Canadian soldiers serving in Kabul, Afghanistan. Serving in the name of freedom and peace.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Captain Nairne's parents, my aunt Elaine and uncle Ken Nairne for supplying me with information for this column. I hope you get to read this soon cousin. I don't know where you'll be reading this from but Merry Christmas from aunt Joyce, uncle Ed, cousin Gord, Kathy and Serena and my crew, Heather, Aaron and Brandi.

On behalf of the Cybulski family, I'd like to wish all our friends in the racing community a happy, healthy holiday season and throughout the new year.

Merry Christmas.

Greg Cybulski

Prairie Dirt http://www.racercity.com/members/fanpage/gecwpg 

"Dirt from the Stands" 

Little Track on the Prairies

Photo: Winnipeg's Lou Kennedy Jr. put the #21k Sprint Car in Victory Lane at Estevan Motor Speedway in Estevan, Saskatchewan. ( Photo by Greg Cybulski )

by Greg Cybulski

Well race fans, the dirt has settled from a wild weekend at one of my favorite race tracks. Estevan, Saskatchewan is best known for it's mining industry but just to the South of town is one of the prettiest sights this race fan could ever behold in Estevan Motor Speedway. Nestled in the pasture land of Saskatchewan, EMS has quickly established itself as a player in the game of dirt track racing. Not only do they host IMCA Modified Specials and the prestigious Dakota Modified Tour, but they have recently stepped up their program by hosting the Northern Late Model Racing Association for the past two years and for the first time ever, on Saturday, August 14 the Northern Outlaw Sprint Association.

August 14 was a special night for many reasons. Not only did this date mark NOSA's return to Canada since May of 2000 and Estevan's first attempt at hosting a Sprint Car show but it was also my first time helping promote a show. My first time at EMS was last spring for the NLRA Late Model Tour. This was the Grand Forks, ND based organization's first date in Saskatchewan and were very well received by fans and track officials. Needless to say, Estevan has become a favorite stop for the NLRA.

It is because of the NLRA's trips to Estevan that a Sprint Car show was possible. To put it in perspective, if your neighbor goes someplace new and says nothing but good things about it and talks about how nice the people are there, wouldn't you be interested in checking it out too? Well, the NOSA teams had heard plenty of good things from the NLRA who both race weekly at River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks, ND.

It has been no secret that up until last year, the Western Swing of the NOSA Tour into Minot had suffered low car counts. 2004 has showed an improvement in numbers with a restructured payout in Minot, plus with the addition of Estevan to the schedule, Minot enjoyed an 18 car field on Sunday, August 15. Having two tracks in close proximity like Estevan and Minot, NOSA has a legitimate Western Swing that should bring out better car numbers.

9 months of work, dedication and positive energy was realized when 18 sprints pulled into the pits at EMS. When all was said and done, the fans, teams and track officials all went home happy. Let me just say that for my part, it has been a wonderful and insightful experience that I would not trade for a million dollars. I made some new friends along the way and strengthened my relationship with others. Through it all we had the support and encouragement of the racing community and that's a pretty good feeling knowing that.

I'd like to take this time to thank Pat Boyle, Darcy Walker and all the good folks at Estevan Motor Speedway for giving me an opportunity to help promote and bring Sprint Car racing to EMS. I'd also like to acknowledge the following people for their support and inspiration . Heather, Aaron and Brandi Cybulski, Tom Schmeh of the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame in Knoxville, Ia, Promoter Fred Brownfield of the Northern Sprint Tour, Tom Corcoran of the NLRA, Fred Smith of Winnipeg, Richard Rogers of Winnipeg, Jason Groves of Fargo, ND and Beth Steenhoek of Winterset, Ia.

I've always been a believer in that if you put in an honest effort and keep a positive attitude, good things will come of it. Now I know that is true.

I was watching a biography on Willie Nelson and he made a comment to stuck with me. "I'm not a song writer, but I write songs. I'm not a guitar player but I play a guitar." Well, my version would go something like this, "I'm not a promoter, but I promoted a race."

This column is dedicated to Estevan Motor Speedway, the Little Track on the Prairies. See you next year!

Take care and good racing. Greg Cybulski

Prairie Dirt http://www.racercity.com/members/fanpage/gecwpg 

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