2007irs.htm

Independent Racing Series set for Awards Banquet on Dec. 22nd

By Chris Tilley (Independent Racing Series P.R. Director)
CONTACT: (606) 219-1723 or [email protected]

FINDLAY, OH (November 12, 2007) - The 2007 Independent Racing Series is now looking forward to the Inaugural Awards Banquet which will take place on Saturday, December 22nd, at the Midwest Hotel and Conference Center in Columbus, OH. The invitations have been mailed. If you need more information on the banquet, you can contact Dean Miracle at (419) 306-1499 or (419) 425-3929.

Rick Aukland of Zanesville, OH is the 2007 Independent Racing Series National Champion for the Inaugural season. Wayne Chinn of Bradford, OH has been named the 2007 Independent Racing Series “Rookie of the Year”.

“We are really pleased to have Rick Aukland as the 2007 Independent Racing Series Champion. He had lead the events on several occasions this season, he never quit after having problems on a few occasions, and consistently ran in the top five as well and finally picking up the win during the last race of the season at Skyline Speedway,” stated Dean Miracle, President of the Independent Racing Series.

“It also goes to show that you don’t have to win races all the time, just be consistent to win the points, and that’s what Rick Aukland did this year,” said Miracle.

Wayne Chinn not only picked up the Rookie of the Year honors, but was third in the final point totals after the season ending shoot-out at Skyline Speedway. “It is a real, real pleasure to have him. He is an up and coming dirt driver in the country and has went out and ran some of the big shows, finished 4th in this year’s World 100, and we are really pleased to have talent like that running with us,” stated Dean Miracle, President of the Independent Racing Series.

Ryan Markham of Ashland, OH finished in the runner-up position in the final point totals this season with the Independent Racing Series as well as competing in 100% of the events. Markham won the “Summer Shootout 50” during an exciting stop at the Hilltop Speedway in Millersburg, OH on July 20th. Markham took the lead with two laps remaining to take his only Independent Racing Series win of the season, which was worth $5,000.

Chris Wilson of Louisa, KY finished fourth in the series points as well as the “Rookie of the Year Runner-up” in the final points. Wilson had problems on a few occasions this season with his mount but managed to attend all events on the tour and break into the top-five in the points. “Chris (Wilson) broke a motor (after Portsmouth), but instead of missing a race, borrowed a limited late model and went to Winchester, VA knowing he wasn’t going to be as competitive, but it’s dedication of going out there that we want with our series,” stated Dean Miracle, President of the Independent Racing Series.

“These two young men (Markham and Wilson) are what we want running our series, because its dedication and determination that puts you on top, and that’s what these guys have done,” stated Miracle again.

“Robbie Blair and Mike Balzano also competed fairly regularly with us, and we look forward to seeing them again next season as well as all of the guys that ran with us this year,” stated Miracle.

Final 2007 Independent Racing Series Championship Point Standings

1) Rick Aukland (Zanesville, OH)-2059
2) Ryan Markham (Ashland, OH)-2030
3) Wayne Chinn (Bradford, OH)-2014
4) Chris Wilson (Louisa, KY)-1744
5) Robbie Blair (Titusville, PA)-1329
6) Dave Hess Jr. (Waterford, PA)-1299
7) Corey Conley (Wellsburg, WV)-1236
8) Mike Balzano (Parkersburg, WV)-1022
9) Rick Bond (Mansfield, OH)-947
10) Steve Shaver (Vienna, WV)-900


Final 2007 Independent Racing Series “Rookie of the Year” Point Standings

1) Wayne Chinn (Bradford, OH)-2014
2) Chris Wilson (Louisa, KY)-1744
3) Robbie Scott (Shinnston, WV)-886

Independent Racing Series 2007 season in review: Rick Aukland claims inaugural title

 

By Chris Tilley (Independent Racing Series P.R. Director)

CONTACT: (606) 219-1723 or [email protected]

 

FINDLAY, OH (November 4, 2007)—From start to finish, it was an exciting first season on the Independent Racing Series tour.

 

After 14 different drivers went to victory lane in just 15 events, the season came to an end for the Inaugural Independent Racing Series.

 

Rick Aukland of Zanesville, OH, who had a hard-fought point battle with Ashland, OH driver Ryan Markham all season long, finally come with the championship during the final event of the season, October 13th at Skyline Speedway in Stewart, OH.

 

Let’s go back to the first event, a cold and dreary night at Hilltop Speedway in Millersburg, OH on April 27th. The pits, however, would be flooded with 45 entries and Corey Conley blistering the speedway during Integra Racing Shocks Time Trials. The Wellsburg, WV drivers also set a new Track Record that night. After the dash event, rains would fall and move the second half of the show to May 4th and Dave Hess Jr. of Waterford, PA would capture the Inaugural “IRS Deadline 50” event win and $5,000.

 

Stops number two and three on the series tour took the IRS gang to the Hoosier State of Indiana for a two-night tussle, first stopping at Billie Daniel’s Union County Speedway in Liberty, IN on Friday night May 18th. Local Spencer, In native Marty O’Neal rode the high-side during the 50 lapper and claimed the largest win of his racing career and $5,000. After a visit to Union County Speedway on Friday, the series travelers visited the Twin Cities Raceway Park in North Vernon, IN on Saturday May 19th as Robbie Blair of Titusville, PA captured $5,000 in night number two of the “Hoosier Challenge” events.

 

The next stop on the Independent Racing Series schedule would be a single visit to Ron Moran’s Muskingum County Speedway in Zanesville, OH as Cambridge, OH driver Doug Dodd captured the $5,000 first place prize during the “Dunn/Hartman/Lutz/Tanner & Boyd” Memorial race.

 

After taking a weekend off, the series visited Challenger Raceway in Indiana, PA for the “Mega-Blitz ‘07” as Robbie Blair of Titusville, PA became the only repeat winner on the Independent Racing Series tour. Blair picked up a cool $5,000 for his victory under the lights during a single visit to the Keystone State on June 10th.

 

Hometown favorite Paul Wilmoth Jr. of Clarksburg, WV picked up his very first series win during an IRS stop to the Tyler County Speedway in Middlebourne, WV on June 16th. Wilmoth took home $5,000 in the 4th Annual Eaton/Childers “King of the Ring” event.

 

On Saturday night June 23rd, the Independent Racing Series made its first appearance to Jim Nier’s KC Raceway in Chillicothe, OH for the Annual “Night the Stars Come Out” event and Salt Rock, WV driver Eddie Carrier Jr. picked up the $5,000 top prize. The former Kentucky native, Carrier, held off a hard-charging Bart Hartman for the win.

 

A four race month of July would kick off at the Rocky Top Raceway in Coal Grove, OH on Friday night July 13th with Steve Francis of Ashland, KY taking the $5,000 win while driving the Tim Logan owned # 11 race-car.

 

On July 20th, a trip back to Hilltop Speedway in Millersburg, OH would prove “excitement” for the Independent Racing Series as Ryan Markham of Ashland, OH would pick up his first series victory of the season. Markham took the lead from Rick Aukland in the event with only two laps remaining to go on to the $5,000 victory.

 

A trip to Portsmouth Raceway Park in Portsmouth, OH on July 21st would see Parkersburg, WV driver Mike Balzano pick up his only win of 2007 and $5,000 to go along with it.

 

After inheriting the lead from local hot shoe Allen Brannon on lap two, DJ Myers of Greencastle, PA rode the high-line to the $5,000 payday in the lone visit to Virginia and the Winchester Speedway on July 27th. Myers held off a hard-charging Bo Feathers for the victory.

 

A foggy night in at Elkins Speedway in Elkins, WV sent first-time winner Jared Hawkins of Fairmont, WV to victory lane in the annual “RH Armstrong Memorial” event. The youngster picked up $5,000 holding off Tim Dohm for the win.

 

Another first-time winner Josh Richards of Shinnston, WV went to victory lane at Frank Plessinger’s Hagerstown Speedway in Hagerstown, MD while driving the Ernie Davis owned # 25 mount in the 27th annual “Shorty Bowers Bull Durham Championship” event. Richards took home $5,000 and his first Independent Racing Series win.

 

Clint Smith of Senoia, GA led all 50 laps in route to his first IRS sanctioned win at the Cannonball Motor Speedway in St. Clairsville, OH on September 3rd with fellow Georgia competitor Shane Clanton of Locust Grove taking the runner-up slot. Smith won $5,000 for his efforts.

 

The final event came on October 13th at Skyline Speedway in Stewart, OH with leading point driver Rick Aukland of Zanesville, OH finally getting a win on the series tour picking up the $5,000 check and the championship.

 

Aukland, as well as the other top-ten drivers in the final point standings will pick up the hard-ware and point fund checks at the Awards Banquet in December. Details on the Awards Banquet are forthcoming.

 

For further information on the Independent Racing Series, please log on to www.irsracing.net or call the series office at (419) 425-3929.

Aukland wins “Battle and War” during Independent Racing Series stop at Skyline

By Chris Tilley (Independent Racing Series P.R. Director)
CONTACT: (606) 219-1723 or [email protected]

STEWART, OH (October 13, 2007)—Rick Aukland of Zanesville, OH cashed in on Saturday night October 13th in the Independent Racing Series stop at the Skyline Speedway in Stewart, OH.

Aukland not only claimed the $5,000 “Jack-O-Lantern” 50 event, but captured the series championship to add to his outstanding racing resume.

Aukland came to Independent Racing Series Victory Lane for the first time this season while driving the K&E Trucking, Chase Race Decals, Malcuit Racing Engines powered MasterSbilt Pontiac Grand Prix. Aukland became the 14th different winner in 15 races total on the 2007 tour.

Dash winner Rod Conley and Doug Drown would bring the 24 car field down to the green flag for the start of the 50 lap main event with Rod Conley going to the lead off the back-chute. Rod Conley would lead the opening lap with Drown second and Rick Aukland in tow.

The first yellow flag would come out on the fifth lap as Steve Wilmoth spun in turn four. This would set the field up for a single-file restart with Rod Conley up front, Drown second, Tim Dohm third, Aukland fourth and Ben Adkins fifth.

On the restart, Tim Dohm would make the move to go around Drown for second out of turn two on the outside line.

The next yellow would wave on lap six as Freddie Carpenter came to a stop in turn one. On the restart, the cars of Wayne Chinn and Josh McGuire both got together and spun around on the front-chute bringing out the next yellow flag.

On lap eight, Drown would get back around Dohm for the second spot behind leader Rod Conley.

Drown then made a bid for the lead on the ninth lap going around Rod Conley on the inside line with Dohm, Aukland, and Adkins in tow.

On the 17th circuit, Jason Montgomery, Tracy Fritter and Josh McGuire got caught up in turn two which brought out the yellow flag. This would send the three cars that stopped to the tail of the field. On the next restart, Rick Aukland went straight to the bottom in turn one and would challenge Rod Conley for second spot. Aukland would take the spot away by the next lap leaving Conley and Dohm to battle for third.

Fast moving Steve Shaver had already moved up to fourth by the 30th circuit. Shaver made a bid for third spot on Conley by lap 35; he would then take the position away on the next lap using the outside line to his advantage.

Aukland and Shaver would duke it out for the second spot on the 38th lap, but Aukland would stay on the bottom of the multi-groove racing surface to hold the position.

By the 44th lap, Rick Aukland, who was fishing on the bottom, reeled in Doug Drown and took the lead on the inside coming off turn four.

The caution would come out on lap 47 as Kenny Christy spun on the back-chute. This would set up a three lap shoot-out to the finish with Drown in second, Shaver a close third, Mike Balzano fourth after starting ninth, and Tim Dohm fifth.

Aukland would bring the field back down for the restart and lead the field around for the last three circuits and claim his first-ever Independent Racing Series feature win. Aukland crossed the stripe over Drown, Shaver, Balzano and Dohm. Josh McGuire, Rod Conley, Ben Adkins, Jeff Burdette and Ryan Markham completed the top ten.

In post-race ceremonies, Rick Aukland was named the 2007 Independent Racing Series National Champion. Wayne Chinn was awarded the 2007 Independent Racing Series Rookie of the Year while Ryan Markham was awarded the Championship Runner-up. Chris Wilson was awarded for his fourth place finish in the series final points and Runner-up in the Rookie of the Year standings as well.

For more information on the Independent Racing Series please visit www.irsracing.net or call the series office at (419) 425-3929. The Celebration of Champions Awards Banquet information will be released in the very near future.

Official Summary of Results:

Round # 15-Independent Racing Series
Skyline Speedway-Stewart, OH
$5,000 to win ($24,100 Purse)

A-Main Finish:
1. Rick Aukland-Zanesville, OH
2. Doug Drown-Wooster, OH
3. Steve Shaver-Vienna, WV
4. Mike Balzano-Parkersburg, WV
5. Tim Dohm-Cross Lanes, WV
6. Josh McGuire-Grayson, KY
7. Rod Conley-Wheelersburg, OH
8. Ben Adkins-West Portsmouth, OH
9. Jeff Burdette-Parkersburg, WV
10. Ryan Markham-Ashland, OH
11. Jason Montgomery-Jackson, OH
12. Larry Bond-Guysville, OH
13. Corey Conley-Wellsburg, WV
14. Kenny Christy-Vanceburg, KY
15. Anthony Huber-Parkersburg, WV
16. Chris Garnes-Evans, WV
17. Wayne Chinn-Bradford, OH
18. Paul Wilmoth Jr.-Clarksburg, WV
19. Freddie Carpenter-Parkersburg, WV
20. Charlie Swartz-Minford, OH
21. Ralph Withem-Athens, OH
22. Steve Wilmoth-Clarksburg, WV
23. Chris Wilson-Louisa, KY
24. Tracy Fritter-Zanesville, OH

Entries: 50 from four states (KY, OH, WV, MI)
Integra Racing Shocks Fast Time: Rick Aukland-13:806 seconds

Heat-1 (Top-4 Transfer): Tim Dohm, Rick Aukland, Anthony Huber, Doug Drown, Freddie Carpenter, Kevin Layne, Rick Lucas, Larry Ferrell, Chuck Hummer, Charlie George, Tyler Carpenter, Ricky Williams, Chris Wilson

Heat-2 (Top-4 Transfer): Rod Conley, Ben Adkins, Jeff Burdette, Corey Conley, Tracy Fritter, Jeff Wood, John Mason, Larry Bond, Jason Edge, Rodney Gibson, Cody Enlow, Nick Corbitt, Delmas Conley

Heat-3 (Top-4 Transfer): Paul Wilmoth Jr., Mike Balzano, Steve Wimoth, Josh McGuire, Jason Montgomery, Andy Bond, Dan Morrison, Chris Carpenter, Justin Powell, Butch McGill, Joe Ramey, Jeff Cunningham

Heat-4 (Top-4 Transfer): Chris Garnes, Wayne Chinn, Steve Shaver, Kenny Christy, Charlie Swartz, Richard Frazier, Jeff Esbenshade, Clint Coffman, Danny Moore, Ralph Withem, Ryan Markham, Kenny Johnson

Dash: Rod Conley, Doug Drown, Rick Aukland, Ben Adkins, Jeff Burdette

B Main # 1 (Top-3 Transfer): Larry Bond, Tracy Fritter, Freddie Carpenter, John Mason, Delmas Conley, Jeff Wood, Rick Lucas, Jason Edge, Chris Wilson, Cody Enlow, Tyler Carpenter, Chuck Hummer, Nick Corbitt, Larry Ferrell, Kevin Layne, Rodney Gibson, Charlie George, Ricky Williams

B-Main # 2 (Top-3 Transfer): Jason Montgomery, Charlie Swartz, Ralph Withem, Joe Ramey, Dan Morrison, Justin Powell, Jeff Esbenshade, Chris Carpenter, Clint Coffman, Ryan Markham, Richard Frazier, Jeff Cunningham, Butch McGill

Series Provisionals: Ryan Markham and Chris Wilson


2007 Independent Racing Series Event Winners:
Dave Hess Jr. (Hilltop Speedway)
Marty O’Neal (Union County Speedway)
Robbie Blair (Twin Cities Raceway Park)
Doug Dodd (Muskingum County Speedway)
Robbie Blair (Challenger Raceway)
Paul Wilmoth Jr. (Tyler County Speedway)
Eddie Carrier Jr. (KC Raceway)
Steve Francis (Rocky Top Raceway)
Ryan Markham (Hilltop Speedway)
Mike Balzano (Portsmouth Raceway Park)
DJ Myers (Winchester Speedway)
Jared Hawkins (Elkins Motor Speedway)
Josh Richards (Hagerstown Speedway)
Clint Smith (Cannonball Motor Speedway)
Rick Aukland (Skyline Speedway)

Final 2007 Independent Racing Series Championship Points (after 10/13/07)
1. Rick Aukland-2059 (Zanesville, OH)
2. Ryan Markham-2030 (Ashland, OH)
3. Wayne Chinn-2014 (Bradford, OH)
4. Chris Wilson-1744 (Louisa, KY)
5. Robbie Blair-1329 (Titusville, PA)
6. Dave Hess Jr.-1299 (Waterford, PA)
7. Corey Conley-1236 (Wellsburg, WV)
8. Mike Balzano-1022 (Parkersburg, WV)
9. Rick Bond-947 (Mansfield, OH)
10. Steve Shaver-900 (Vienna, WV)

Independent Racing Series to close out 2007 season at Skyline Speedway on Oct. 13th

By Chris Tilley (Independent Racing Series P.R. Director)
CONTACT: (606) 219-1723 or [email protected]

FINDLAY, OH (October 3, 2007)—It’s been a long summer, but the finale event for the Independent Racing Series will come down to the wire on Saturday night October 13, 2007 at the Skyline Speedway in Stewart, OH.

The “Jack-O-Lantern 50” event at Skyline Speedway will feature a complete show of Integra Racing Shocks Time Trials, Heat Races, the ever-popular Dash, B-Mains, and the 50 lap $5,000 to win main event.

Supporting divisions including Sprints, Pure Stocks, Outlaw Streets, AMRA Modifieds, Four Cylinders, and MWRA Mini-Wedges will also be in attendance during the series’ first-ever visit to the Mid-Ohio Valley facility on October 13th.

The championship battle is now between two of Ohio’s best, point leader Rick Aukland from Zanesville and Ashland’s Ryan Markham. Markham sits 19 points behind Aukland heading into the series’ finale event. Wayne Chinn of Bradford, OH has wrapped up the 2007 Independent Racing Series “Rookie of the Year” title but is still in contention for the second place points finish. Chinn sits only nine points behind Markham.

In 14 of the previous 2007 events, only one of the top-four in the points has come out victorious and that was Ryan Markham back on July 20 at Hilltop Speedway in Millersburg, OH during the “Summer Shootout” event. Markham held off Rick Aukland to win the $5,000 prize as it was un-doughtily the most exciting races for the Independent Racing Series so far in 2007.

During that time, Aukland and series Rookie of the Year point leader Wayne Chinn have both managed to collect several top-five finishes in those 14 events.

There have been 13 different winners go to Victory Lane in just 14 events on the 2007 tour with only one repeat winner. Robbie Blair took those two wins which came at Twin Cities Raceway (IN) Park and Challenger (PA) Raceway.

The Skyline Speedway will make the 14th different track on the Independent Racing Schedule, which is home to the prestigious “Harvest 50” event held each season at the 3/8th’s mile oval.

For further information on Skyline Speedway, please call (740) 662-4111 or click your web browser to www.skylinespeedway.net .

The purse for Skyline Speedway: 1) $5000, 2) $3000, 3) $2000, 4) $1600, 5) $ 1400, 6) $1200, 7) $1000, 8) $900, 9) $800, 10) $700, 11) $600, 12) $575, 13) $550, 14) $525, 15) $500, 16) $ 475, 17) $450, 18) $425, 19) $400, 20) $400, 21) $400, 22) $400, 23) $400, 24) $400

2007 Independent Racing Series Event Winners:
Dave Hess Jr. (Hilltop Speedway)
Marty O’Neal (Union County Speedway)
Robbie Blair (Twin Cities Raceway Park)
Doug Dodd (Muskingum County Speedway)
Robbie Blair (Challenger Raceway)
Paul Wilmoth Jr. (Tyler County Speedway)
Eddie Carrier Jr. (KC Raceway)
Steve Francis (Rocky Top Raceway)
Ryan Markham (Hilltop Speedway)
Mike Balzano (Portsmouth Raceway Park)
DJ Myers (Winchester Speedway)
Jared Hawkins (Elkins Motor Speedway)
Josh Richards (Hagerstown Speedway)
Clint Smith (Cannonball Motor Speedway)

2007 Independent Racing Series Championship Points (after 9/3/07)
1. Rick Aukland-1909 (Zanesville, OH)
2. Ryan Markham-1890 (Ashland, OH)
3. Wayne Chinn-1881 (Bradford, OH)
4. Chris Wilson-1617 (Louisa, KY)
5. Robbie Blair-1329 (Titusville, PA)
6. Dave Hess Jr.-1299 (Waterford, PA)
7. Corey Conley-1099 (Wellsburg, WV)
8. Rick Bond-947 (Mansfield, OH)
9. Robbie Scott-886 (Shinnston, WV)
10. Mike Balzano-876 (Parkersburg, WV)

IRS Rookie Leader Wayne Chinn finishes third in “Fall Harvest” at Quad City (IL)

By Chris Tilley (Independent Racing Series P.R. Director)
CONTACT: (606) 219-1723 or [email protected]

EAST MOLINE, IL (October 1, 2007)—Bradford, OH driver Wayne Chinn has been a man on a mission these last few months.

The current Independent Racing Series Rookie of the Year Points leader recently finished third in the Annual “Fall Harvest” at the Quad City’s Speedway in East Moline, Illinois on Sunday night September 30, 2007. Jeep VanWormer of Pinconning, Michigan picked up the $12,000 win over Matt Miller, Chinn, Darren Miller, and Dennis Erb Jr. Chinn Motorsports was on their way back to Ohio after competing in the Lucas Oil Knoxville Nationals in Knoxville, Iowa.

The next Independent Racing Series event will come on Saturday night October 13, 2007 as the “Jack-O-Lantern 50” hits the Skyline Speedway in Stewart, OH paying $5,000 to the winner. This is the finale event of the season for the Independent Racing Series and the Championship will be decided between some of Ohio’s best, Rick Aukland and Ryan Markham.

Fourth place driver in this year’s World 100 Wayne Chinn has wrapped up the series Rookie of the Year Championship but will hold his own against second place driver Ryan Markham in the series points, which could come down to the wire before the end of the night. Chinn is only nine points behind second place runner Ryan Markham of Ashland, OH.

For further information on Wayne Chinn, you can visit www.waynechinn1.com or for further information on the Independent Racing Series, please log on to www.irsracing.net .

Fall Harvest Finish: (1) Jeep Van Wormer, (2) Matt Miller, (3) Wayne Chinn, (4) Darren Miller, (5) Dennis Erb Jr., (6) Shannon Babb, (7) Jimmy Mars, (8) Brian Shirley, (9) Randy Korte, (10) Brian Birkhofer, (11) Scott Bloomquist, (12) Billy Drake, (13) Ryan Dauber, (14) Donnie Moran, (15) Eric Jacobsen, (16) Darrel DeFrance, (17) Rob Toland, (18) Steve Ihm, (19) Terry Casey, (20) Eric Gustaf.

Independent Racing Series points heading into Skyline Speedway:
1. Rick Aukland-1909 (Zanesville, OH)
2. Ryan Markham-1890 (Ashland, OH)
3. Wayne Chinn-1881 (Bradford, OH)
4. Chris Wilson-1617 (Louisa, KY)
5. Robbie Blair-1329 (Titusville, PA)
6. Dave Hess Jr.-1299 (Waterford, PA)
7. Corey Conley-1099 (Wellsburg, WV)
8. Rick Bond-947 (Mansfield, OH)
9. Robbie Scott-886 (Shinnston, WV)
10. Mike Balzano-876 (Parkersburg, WV)

Clint Smith dominates Independent Racing Series “Cannonball Run”
 
By Chris Tilley (Independent Racing Series P.R. Director)
CONTACT: (606) 219-1723 or [email protected]
 
St. Clairsville, OH (September 3, 2007)—Clint Smith of Senoia, Georgia
showed dominance in the Independent Racing Series sanctioned “Cannonball
Run” event at the Cannonball Motor Speedway in St. Clairsville, Ohio on
Monday evening September 3, 2007 after leading all 50 laps in route to the
$5,000 payday.
 
Smith, 42, came to Victory Lane while driving the JP Drilling, Cliburn Tank
Lines, Crane Cams, Integra Racing Shocks, Hoosier Racing Tires, CSR Aluminum
Fabrication, JFR Graphics, J & J Steel, Base Racing Fuels, Stevens Plumbing
& Mechanical sponsored Racetek powered GRT Race Cars Monte Carlo.
 
Clanton, former Dixie Shootout winner, finished second in the main event
while driving the RSD Enterprises, Stevens Plumbing, Hoosier Racing Tires,
Allstar Performance, Slavic Custom Decals sponsored Custom Racing Engines
powered Rocket Pontiac Grand Prix.
 
Third place finisher Robbie Blair drove the Specialty Products, Genesis
Racing Shocks, Hoosier Racing Tires sponsored Custom powered Rocket Pontiac
Grand Prix. Fourth in the main event was Rick Aukland in the K & E Trucking,
Chase Race Decals sponsored Malcuit Racing Engines powered MasterSbilt
Pontiac Grand Prix.
 
Finishing fifth in the main event during his first-ever Independent Racing
Series start was South Park, PA driver Jared Miley in the Colussy Chevrolet,
Sunoco Race Fuels, Hoosier Racing Tires sponsored Brougher’s powered Rocket
Monte Carlo.
 
Dash winner Clint Smith and Keith Barbara led the 24 car field down to Keith
Decker’s green flag for the start of the 50 lap affair. Smith would lead the
field in the early stages up on the high side. The first of only two yellow
flags would wave on the track during the 15 lap as Keith Barbara slowed in
turn two. By this point, Smith still was out front with Robbie Blair second.
 
By lap 15, Ryan Markham, who started in the 20th spot was already up to the
11th spot making a run for the top-ten.
 
On the 16th circuit, Shane Clanton used the high-side momentum to slip past
second place driver Robbie Blair in turn four with Smith still in a
commanding lead.
 
By the half-way point in the race, Smith was still out front with Clanton
second, Blair third, Rick Aukland fourth and Jared Miley fifth.
 
The final yellow flag would wave on the 35th lap as Tracy Fritter slowed in
turn three. This would close the gap between leader Smith and fast-closing
Clanton, who was now trying the low groove. This would leave a 15 lap
shoot-out to the finish as Smith would pull away from Clanton and go on to
the win in the “Cannonball Run” event. Smith’s first Independent Racing
Series visit made him the 13th different winner in just 14 races on the
series tour. To this point, there have been 293 different drivers from 13
states and two countries that have competed on the Independent Racing Series
tour.
 
The next Independent Racing Series event will come up on Saturday night
October 13, 2007 at the Skyline Speedway in Stewart, OH for round # 15
paying $5,000 to win. For further information on the Independent Racing
Series, please click on www.irsracing.net .
 
Official Summary of Results:
 
Independent Racing Series Round # 14-2007 Season
Cannonball Motor Speedway
St. Clairsville, Ohio
Monday September 3, 2007
$5,000 to win event
 
A-Main Finish:
1. Clint Smith-Senoia, GA
2. Shane Clanton-Locust Grove, GA
3. Robbie Blair-Titusville, PA
4. Rick Aukland-Zanesville, OH
5. Jared Miley-South Park, PA
6. Norm Aronhalt-Warsaw, OH
7. Wayne Chinn-Bradford, OH
8. Corey Conley-Wellsburg, WV
9. Jared Hawkins-Fairmont, WV
10. Ryan Markham-Ashland, OH
11. DJ Cline-St. Clairsville, OH
12. Paul Wilmoth Jr.-Clarksburg, WV
13. Chuck Maloney-St. Clairsville, OH
14. John Mollick-Toronto, OH
15. Jason Flory-Creston, OH
16. Scott Peltz-Cadiz, OH
17. Cody Barack-St. Clairsville, OH
18. Freddie Carpenter-Parkersburg, WV
19. Jake Hawkins-Fairmont, WV
20. Dave Hess Jr.-Waterford, PA
21. Chris Wilson-Louisa, KY
22. Tracy Fritter-Zanesville, OH
23. Lance Elson-Wellsburg, WV
24. Keith Barbara-South Park, PA
 
Entries: 39 from five states (KY, OH, PA, WV, GA)
Integra Racing Shocks Fast Time Winner: Rick Aukland-18:450 seconds
Heat Race Winners: Shane Clanton, Jason Flory, Jared Hawkins
Dash Winner: Clint Smith
Time of Race: 24 minutes
PBM A-Main Hard Charger (Track): Norm Aronhalt (advanced 13 positions)
 
Current Independent Racing Series Points (after September 3)
1. Rick Aukland-1909 (Zanesville, OH)
2. Ryan Markham-1890 (Ashland, OH)
3. Wayne Chinn-1881 (Bradford, OH)
4. Chris Wilson-1617 (Louisa, KY)
5. Robbie Blair-1329 (Titusville, PA)
6. Dave Hess Jr.-1299 (Waterford, PA)
7. Corey Conley-1099 (Wellsburg, WV)
8. Rick Bond-947 (Mansfield, OH)
9. Robbie Scott-886 (Shinnston, WV)
10. Mike Balzano-876 (Parkersburg, WV)
 
2007 Independent Racing Series event winners
Dave Hess Jr.-Waterford, PA (Hilltop Speedway)
Marty O’Neal-Spencer, IN (Union County Speedway)
Robbie Blair-Titusville, PA (Twin Cities Raceway Park)
Doug Dodd-Cambridge, OH (Muskingum County Speedway)
Robbie Blair-Titusville, PA (Challenger Raceway)
Paul Wilmoth Jr.-Clarksburg, WV (Tyler County Speedway)
Eddie Carrier Jr.-Salt Rock, WV (KC Raceway)
Steve Francis-Ashland, KY (Rocky Top Raceway)
Ryan Markham-Ashland, OH (Hilltop Speedway)
Mike Balzano-Parkersburg, WV (Portsmouth Raceway Park)
DJ Myers-Greencastle, PA (Winchester Speedway)
Jared Hawkins-Fairmont, WV (Elkins Speedway)
Josh Richards-Shinnston, WV (Hagerstown Speedway)
Clint Smith-Senoia, GA (Cannonball Motor Speedway)

Independent Racing Series ready for Labor Day Cannonball Run
 
By Chris Tilley (Independent Racing Series P.R. Director)
CONTACT: (606) 219-1723 or [email protected]
 
FINDLAY, OH (August 23, 2007)—After taking a several week break, the
Independent Racing Series will venture over to Eastern Ohio to the
Cannonball Motor Speedway in St. Clairsville, OH for the “Cannonball Run”
paying $5,000 to win on Monday evening September 3rd.
 
The series, making it’s first ever appearance to the 4/10 mile D-Shaped oval
will see a complete show of Integra Racing Shocks Time Trials, Heat Races,
B-Mains, Dash and the 50 lap “Cannonball Run” $5,000 to win main event.
 
This event marks the 13th different track on the series tour. There have
been 12 different event winners in just 13 scheduled events this season for
the Independent Racing Series.
 
Rick Aukland of Zanesville, OH currently leads the pack of Independent
Racing Series Point Leaders to the “Cannonball Run” on September 3 with just
13 marks over second place driver Ryan Markham from Ashland, OH. Wayne Chinn
of Bradford, OH is currently third in series points with just 12 points
behind second place driver Ryan Markham. Chinn also leads the Independent
Racing Series Rookie of the Year Championship Chase over Louisa, KY driver
Chris Wilson who is also fourth in Independent Racing Series Championship
Points.
 
The Cannonball Motor Speedway recently opened for 2007 with an extremely
wide racing surface of over 70 feet and at least 17 degrees of banking in
the corners for the D-Shaped racing facility. A practice session for the
Super Late Models will be held on Sunday evening along with the supporting
division heats and b-mains.
 
A 4:00 p.m. start time for Hot Laps will be utilized on the Labor Day
Holiday event with Time Trials to immediately follow. The 4 Cylinders, Pure
Stock, Modifieds and Limited Late Models will also be in attendance for a
complete show which starts Sunday September 2 and will be completed on Labor
Day during the IRS event.
 
The 2-day event will see supporting division heats and b-mains on Sunday and
the A-Mains along with the complete Independent Racing Series event on
Monday. The E-Mods will compete for $1,500 to win in the “Lias Tire 30”
event. The Pure Stocks will compete for $800 to win along with Limited Late
Models and 4 Cylinders during the two-day support class events.
 
All Independent Racing Series Rules, Regulations and Procedures will be
utilized during the Labor Day event at Cannonball Motor Speedway.
 
The gates open at 2:00 p.m. while Hot Lapping is set for 4:00 p.m. on Monday
afternoon.
 
The Cannonball Motor Speedway is located on Exit 208 (Morristown) off of
Interstate 70, and then follow speedway signs.
 
For further information on Cannonball Motor Speedway, please call (740)
676-5444 or log on to www.cannonballspeedway.com .
 
Further information on the Independent Racing Series can be found by calling
the series office at (419) 425-3929 or clicking on www.irsracing.net .
 
“CANNONBALL RUN” TOTAL PURSE – 1) $5,000, 2) $3,000, 3) $2,000, 4) $1,600,
5) $1,400, 6) $1,200, 7) $1,000, 8) $900, 9) $800, 10) $700, 11) $600, 12)
$575, 13) $550, 14) $525, 15) $500, 16) $475, 17) $450, 18) $425, 19) $400,
20) $400, 21) $400, 22) $400, 23) $400, 24) $400
 
2007 Independent Racing Series Championship Point Standings (after 13
events)
1. 12-Rick Aukland-1763 (Zanesville, OH)
2. 5m-Ryan Markham-1750 (Ashland, OH)
3. 1-Wayne Chinn-1738 (Bradford, OH)
4. 17-Chris Wilson-1488 (Louisa, KY)
5. W11-Robbie Blair-1182 (Titusville, PA)
6. 44-Dave Hess Jr.-1169 (Waterford, PA)
7. 14-Corey Conley-957 (Wellsburg, WV)
8. 007-Rick Bond-947 (Mansfield, OH)
9. 18-Robbie Scott-886 (Shinnston, WV)
10. E1-Mike Balzano-876 (Parkersburg, WV)
11. 30-Steve Shaver-753 (Vienna, WV)
12. 75-Bart Hartman-661 (Zanesville, OH)
13. 12-Doug Drown-581 (Wooster, OH)
14. T8-Mark Banal-569 (St. Clairsville, OH)
15. 42-Cody Parker-555 (Zanesville, OH)
16. 28-Eddie Carrier Jr.-542 (Salt Rock, WV)
17. 41-Josh McGuire-436 (Ashland, KY)
18. 71-Rod Conley-419 (Wheelersburg, OH)
18. 19-Marty O’Neal-419 (Spencer, IN)
20. 21-George Lee-408 (Loudonville, OH)
 
2007 Independent Racing Series Schedule & Event Winners:
May 4-Hilltop (OH) Speedway (Dave Hess Jr.)
May 18-Union County (IN) Speedway (Marty O’Neal)
May 19-Twin Cities Raceway Park (Robbie Blair)
May 26-Muskingum County (OH) Speedway (Doug Dodd)
June 10-Challenger (PA) Raceway (Robbie Blair)
June 16-Tyler County (WV) Speedway (Paul Wilmoth Jr.)
June 23-KC (OH) Raceway (Eddie Carrier Jr.)
July 13-Rocky Top (OH) Raceway (Steve Francis)
July 20-Hilltop (OH) Speedway (Ryan Markham)
July 21-Portsmouth Raceway (OH) Park (Mike Balzano)
July 28-Winchester (VA) Speedway (DJ Myers)
August 3-Elkins (WV) Speedway (Jared Hawkins)
August 4-Hagerstown (MD) Speedway (Josh Richards)
September 3-Cannonball Motor (OH) Speedway-$5,000
October 13-Skyline (OH) Speedway-$5,000

Cannonball and Skyline added to Independent Racing Series Schedule
 
By Chris Tilley (Independent Racing Series P.R. Director)
CONTACT: (606) 219-1723 or [email protected]
 
FINDLAY, OH (August 14, 2007)—The Independent Racing Series has added a
couple of more dates to the 2007 Racing Schedule at both the Cannonball
Motor Speedway and the Skyline Speedway. The September 15 date at the
Brownstown Speedway has been removed from the schedule.
 
On Monday night September 3, the Independent Racing Series will make a stop
over at the newly renovated Cannonball Motor Speedway in St. Clairsville,
OH. The event will pay $5,000 to win with a complete show of Integra Racing
Shocks Time Trials, Heat Races, B-Mains and the 50 lap Feature event. An
earlier start time of 4:00 p.m. for Hot Laps will be utilized for the event.
This will mark the first appearance of 2007 to the Cannonball Motor Speedway
which is located just minutes from the West Virginia state line.
 
The Independent Racing Series will then make a stop at the Skyline Speedway
located in Stewart, OH on Saturday night October 13 paying $5,000 to win as
the IRS Late Models makes another first time visit in Ohio.
 
The September 15 date at the Brownstown Speedway has been removed from the
schedule due to an illness and surgery taking place the week of the event
inside of the promotional team at the Jackson County Fairgrounds oval. The
Independent Racing Series does apologize for any inconvenience that this has
caused.
 
The last couple of Independent Racing Series events saw two different
winners with Jared Hawkins of Fairmont, WV picking up the $5,000 prize at
the Elkins Speedway in Elkins, WV on August 3 while Josh Richards of
Shinnston, WV picked up the $5,000 win at Frank Plessinger’s Hagerstown
Speedway in Hagerstown, MD on August 4. There have been 12 different feature
winners in just 13 events on the Independent Racing Series event schedule
with only one repeat winner as Robbie Blair of Titusville, PA picked up two
wins coming at both Twin Cities Raceway Park and Challenger Raceway.
 
More information is forthcoming and will be released shortly concerning the
Cannonball and Skyline Speedway events.
 
For further information on the Independent Racing Series, please contact the
series office by phone at (419) 425-3929 or click on www.irsracing.net .
 
2007 Independent Racing Series Schedule and Results:
May 4-Hilltop Speedway-Millersburg, OH (Dave Hess Jr.)
May 18-Union County Speedway-Liberty, IN (Marty O’Neal)
May 19-Twin Cities Raceway Park-N. Vernon, IN (Robbie Blair)
May 26-Muskingum County Speedway-Zanesville, OH (Doug Dodd)
June 10-Challenger Raceway-Indiana, PA (Robbie Blair)
June 16-Tyler County Speedway-Middlebourne, WV (Paul Wilmoth Jr.)
June 23-KC Raceway-Chillicothe, OH (Eddie Carrier Jr.)
July 13-Rocky Top Raceway-Coal Grove, OH (Steve Francis)
July 20-Hi