Craftsman World of Outlaw Late Models Invade for only New York State 2016 appearance
Story By: SHANNON PHELPS / WEEDSPORT SPEEDWAY Photos By:DAVE DALESANDRO /RACERSGUIDE.COM
Weedsport NY.- June 17, 2016- Just one month ago Weedsport Speedway opened the doors for the 2016 Season with a huge Craftsman World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series event. Fans and competitors were treated to a host of entertainment upgrades, most notably the addition of all new LED track lighting as well as a huge megatron behind Victory Hill where fans can watch live action, instant replays, and live pit reports.
The newly remodeled facility was practically overflowing, as a near capacity crowd was on hand to enjoy the great food and atmosphere, and watch an awesome night of racing. On Tuesday, June 21st, the Outlaws invade again as the Craftsman World of Outlaw Late Model Series rolls into Weedsport for their only 2016 New York State appearance.
The 2016 edition of Finger Lakes 40 will not only feature the best dirt late model stars in the country, but the Napa Sportsman Shootout Series will also be on the card. Last years’ Finger Lakes 40 marked the return of the Craftsman World of Outlaws after a several year absence. The event did not disappoint, as fans witnessed Shane Clanton out duel hometown hero Tim McCreadie for the 40 lap main event win.
Clanton, the 2015 Series Champion, had this to say about his return, “I’m looking forward to going back to a place that I can race on. I’m excited to get back to New York. We won both races in New York, so I’m hoping to put on a show for the fans and come out of Weedsport with a win.”
Clanton has 4 wins to date, and trails only current series top point man Josh Richards, who has triumphed a total of 6 times in 2016. Richards who was strong in 2015’s running at the port before suffering mechanical failure, hopes to improve on his win total Tuesday night. “I always enjoy going to Weedsport Speedway. It’s a top-notch facility. They really put a lot of work into upgrading the track last year and it showed.
The racing was great and I’m really looking forward to going back next week. Last year we had a good car and I was able to run up front, but I folded the nose over and that ended our night early. So, I’m ready to go back and give it another shot and hopefully bring home a win.”
The Northeast’s top sportsman competitors will also be on hand for a 25 lap Napa Sportsman Shootout Series event. New for this division, heat line ups will be determined by timed hot laps. The decision to change the format was inspired by an overwhelming response to a competitor poll where the Sportsman teams weighed in on Timed vs. Draw. Top qualifiers will be subject to tech inspection at the conclusion and as in all events, DIRTcar rules will be in effect. As an added bonus, sportsman heat races will pay $100 dollars to the winner thanks to Industrial Tire of CNY. Competitors will need to display the Industrial Tire of CNY decal to be eligible.
Pit gates open at 4:00 PM, while grandstands open at 5:00 PM. Racing begins at 7:)) PM. Reserved Seating, advanced sale tickets, and reserved camping passes are available now at www.weedsportspeedway.com. See you at #theport!
