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Port Royal Speedway returns to action this evening with a three-division program of 305 and 410 sprint cars plus late models. It’s church youth group night with free admission for youth groups. Adults are invited to bring a donation for the Juniata County Food Pantry. Patrons making a donation receive a coupon for $2 off the price of a general admission ticket. Action gets under way at 7 p.m.
The 410 sprints cars compete for an added purse this evening at the Juniata County oval. The winner earns $4,000. Tonight marks the first Port Royal appearance of rising star Rico Abreu. Abreu won both USAC midget car events in Pennsylvania this week at Path Valley and Lincoln speedways. Abreu finished second last Saturday night at Jennerstown when the NASCAR K&N late model series visited the track. Abreu is expected to advance his career to the Xfinity series next.
Lincoln Speedway operates this evening with 410 and 358 sprint cars plus the American Outlaw series. Tonight is the final tuneup before Wednesday night’s special 358 sprint car program, which is being run in conjunction with Fred Rahmer Productions, the Legends of Central PA. There’s also a winner take all invitational race for a number of active 410 sprint car drivers.
Selinsgrove Speedway hosts a four-division show of 360 sprint cars, late models, pro stocks and roadrunners. A local chassis builder has arranged contingency prizes for full-body car competitors enabling them a chance to earn parts and cash.
Susquehanna Speedway is in action Sunday night featuring 410 sprint cars; Abreu plans to compete in that event.
Don’t forget there’s Tuesday night sprint car action this week in New Egypt, N.J.
Presidential politics came to 410 sprint car racing. Midwestern driver Roger Crockett carried Trump for President decals and colors on his race car during last week’s Knoxville Sprint Car Nationals. The candidate’s bus was on hand with staff. Trump spent his time at the Iowa State Fair.
Last week was not a good week in 410 sprint car racing. The Knoxville, Iowa, Sprint Car Nationals started with much excitement. Donny Schatz won his ninth title in the last 10 attempts. Five out of six Pennsylvania drivers made Saturday night’s A-main.
Thursday night left a big hole in many hearts. Kevin Swindell, son of World of Outlaws star Sammy Swindell, was seriously injured in what must be termed an unusual accident. Swindell was exiting turn four on a start when contact was made with another car that punted Swindell up into the air. Available video shows Swindell’s car doing a 360-degree midair spin before landing hard on all four wheels. Swindell suffered two fractures in his back and spinal cord damage.
Swindell’s parents have been guarded in statements about his condition. It appears there is still hope paralysis may not be permanent. Doctors indicate Swindell’s spirits and determination are strong. A release issued this week states cards reach Kevin Swindell at Swindell Motorsports, 7540 Bartlett Corp. Cove, Bartlett, TN 38133.
Last Friday night’s news was worse when a fatal racing accident occurred at Williams Grove Speedway. James “Jim” Campbell Jr. lost his life in a turn three crash during warmups. Mechanical failure is the suspected cause of the accident.
The Campbell family has been involved in racing a long time. Campbell’s father was a long time car owner and past president of the United Racing Club. The elder Campbell supplied cars for Jonestown great Leroy Felty during the 1980s. Jim Jr. competed infrequently but was a regular in the pit area helping other drivers as needed. He ran his family’s business. Campbell was not married. Most remember him for always having a smile on his face.
Danica Patrick and Stewart-Haas Racing announced Patrick’s contract extension and new sponsor for 2016. No details were announced as to length of the deal. Representatives of Stewart-Haas said team contract details remain private.
Michael Waltrip Racing will not be operating in 2016. Driver Clint Bowyer has been given his release at season’s end and financier Rob Kauffman announced he and his money are leaving as well.
Keith Kauffman and Lincoln Speedway promoter Alan Kreitzer join Jed Donahue this morning at 11:30 on the PA Sports Network to discuss the Legends sprint car race. Kauffman recently practiced at Port Royal and told me he was not tired when he was through. The show can be heard locally on WIEZ-AM 670.
I’ll be back next week with more news and opinions. Until then please drive safely!
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Craig Rutherford writes about motorsports for The Sentinel.