UPDATE PAGE!
7-29-10
Big update this week! Images from Ogilvie, MN, Watertown, BHS and Heartland Speedway all under the 2010 link. Had a real good time at the Kart track last night-it's amazing how many BHS regulars you'll find there-from the Porter family, Dean Fairbanks, the officiating crew of Travis and Duane, even Randy Quest Jr on the mic. Good job to all! A link to the Kart site can be found on the, oddly enough, links page. Next weekend, the Western Nomad is headed to Big Sky Country!
7-21-10
In my quest for accuracy, it takes a bit longer to get my photos all sorted out before shoving them onto the internet! the Princeton Speedway photos can be viewed under the 2010. I've made a seperate link for the vintage racers this time.
7-19-10
Headed east for some Minnesota fun this weekend. I took waaaaaaaay too many photos, so it is going to take a while to get them all sorted out. However, the first night's racing before my lens (KRA Raceway) is ready and poised for your viewing under the 2010 link on the home page.
7-11-10
For a look at something different, click on over to Arno Selberg's collection, the link of which is located on the home page. You will be intrigued, perhaps biguiled...yet never bored. Trust me. And, this weekend's activities at both the Gillette and BHS ovals are under the 2010 link.
7-5-10
Hope your Fourth of July was a safe one-that you have as many appendages after the fireworks as you did before. Images from BHS and Gillette over the weekend are under the 2010 link, and the final installment of the Mansfield Collection can be viewed under the Racin' Round RC link.
6-30-10
Photo editing-DONE. the rest of my Iowa weekend photos can be viewed and possibly enjoyed under the 2010 link on the home page. The trip to Alta was my fifth, and it still amazes me how many cars the place can draw on a Wednesday night. Simply amazing. It was my first trip to Oskaloosa, as well as my first official contact with the Mississippi Valley Vintage crowd (last year's Knoxville rainout doesn't count, in my book). If watching some incredible tin of yesterday racing through your memories excites you, check this group out. They rock. And Southern Iowa Speedway (hope I have that right) rocks!
6-28-10
Finally getting around to posting a weekend's worth of photos-and what an incredible weekend it was. I, uh, snapped so many pictures it's going to take a few more updates during the week to get them presentable enough for your eyes. I'm going to start with what proved to be the final night of my Iowa tour, as most of my Saturday night options fell to rain. It was "Old Timer's" night at the famed Knoxville Speedway, and unlike last year's trek to these hallowed grounds, not a sprinkle was to be found. The proof of my presence is under the 2010 link. I hope you enjoy looking in as much as I enjoyed the experience of being surrounded by this classic iron.
6-22-10
Finally! Images from this past weekend at both BHS and Gillette Thunder Speedway have been added to the 2010 link. With any luck, I'm headed to Iowa for a weekend of vintage racing tomorrow.
6-16-10
Motivation issues has delayed the posting of BHS rain shortened program last Friday until today. Even if you're mildly interested, they can be viewed under the 2010 link.
6-7-10
New "stuff" from both BHS and Thunder Speedway now under the 2010 link.
5-31-10
The second night of the 2010 Black Hills Speedway season images can be found under the 2010 header. For you fans of BHS's rich history, I have a special treat for you under the Racin' Round RC link. Through contacts with Butch Murner, I was allowed access to a box of goodies from Ruth Friez, widow of ground breaking car builder Ken Friez. I'm sure you'll enjoy these treasures as much as I did.
5-23-10
Since BHS had it's second rain out of the season, spent some quality time with the computer, namely getting some more Racin' Round Rapid images up on the Mansfield collection and a new collection from Shakey Jack Venable. In Shakey's section, look for what is the lone known image of Elmer Smith's Toronado in race trim. Images from last night's Thunder Speedway set are under the 2010 link.
5-16-10
The CLMA/DirtCar Series made appearances at both Black Hills Speedway (their opening night too boot) and Thunder Speedway in Gillette. Not enough time to elaborate for this update, other than the photos are under the 2010 link.
5-9-10
Despite the cold, raw conditions, Gillette Thunder Speedway opened for 2010 business last night. The on again, off again mists prevented more camera work; the images I was able to collect are under the 2010 banner.
5-2-10
This update spans the gambit of why this site was created: something old, something new. Under the "old", for lack of a proper word, is the newest collection of vintage photos courtesy of the Mansfield family. There are plenty of pictures to be added along the way, but the first installment can be found (and enjoyed) under the Racin' Round RC link.
For the new, BHS conducted a car show/test n tune event at the track today. There's no denying it was cold; that is likely the biggest reason for the percentage of the 100+ cars that have registered for the 2010 season to show and play. May 7 is the scheduled opener; I sure hope the weather is better! The new images are found under the 2010 link.
4-17-10
Well, it's that time of the year again. Time to drag out the camera and accesories from their winter hibernation and discover what I have forgotten over the last half year off. Poured myself and the gear into the van, Gillette's car show and test n tune event the first destination of the new year. During the test n tune event, I had blamed a camera malfunction for a series of quickly deleted shots...before realizing it was the operator that had malfunctioned. I severely reprimanded myself, then tried to "reshoot" what I had missed. I promise to be more awake next weekend at Gillette's opener! What images remained are housed under the 2010 link.
4-3-10
A Montana fan asked me to correct a name in the Shorty Olson section of the Montana Round Up page. Turns out the #77 Modified was raced by Kenny George. His son John clarified the matter and I'm more than happy to make such amendments. Co-incidently, I managed to find some more photos of the same stash that I, for whatever reason, never included before. Instead of making an uneducated guess as to the rightful name, year, etc., I've left the file name rather generic. They are at the tail end of the same page.
Sorry for the lack of consistant updates. I do have two very good excuses for this. One, it's getting close to race time and I've put my limited race car building abilities to the task. The Hughes Racing Super stock is nearly 99.9% ready for dirt, and in an old school manner, I've "helped" Jeremy Farr get his Thunder Stock ready. More often than not, my "assistance" blurs the line of "helping" and "interfering". Nonetheless, both cars are almost ready aside from my all thumbs efforts (most of those digits in bandages).
3-21-10
Sorry about the lack of updates...still sorting through the new computer, trying to get the old technology and the new technology to live peacefully on my desktop. More stats from the Mad Statter hisself are under the link that bears his name. Or bares his name. Or bares his soul...
3-7-10
Took the camera to the Counts of the Cobblestone Car Show at the Civic Center in Rapid City yesterday to check out some classic iron and, of course, some of the new cars ready to race at BHS this summer. Didn't get too carried away, hopefully you'll find something to enjoy. Naturally, they are to be found under the 2010 link.
3-6-10
With extended graditude to Lynn Amick, a recent computer glitch has been repaired, the harddrive cloned, and the site is back in business. I'm going to babystep back into the updating stages, beginning with some updated stats from the number one number cruncher of South Dakota, Butch Knouse. You'll find his latest work under the Mad Statter link.
1-31-10
A recent Epson V500 purchase has finally allowed the scanning of "Medium Format" negatives. While this may not mean anything to you, it allowed me to confiscate a trove of such negatives from Jim Holland, thus leading to this week's update of New Jim Holland Discoveries Vol. 1 (under the Jim Holland Experience link if I did it correctly).
1-17-10
A while back, Roger Koth sent me some newspaper clippings saved by his father, Larry, from the Pierre area, which I've deduced to be from the early to mid 1960's. I was really impressed with the Dale Iverson photo! that had to be the first in this collection where he isn't behind the wheel of that famed old '56 Ford he won so often with. Check 'em out under the Eastern South Dakota section.
I also gave the Links page some long needed TLC-adding three great sites for your consuming racing needs. Be sure to check out the Dirt On Dirt, Race Wyoming and Auto Racing Memories sites. They're all very Grade A!
1-9-10
Happy belated New Year! A modest, yet compelling update this time around. Volume 3 of the Mike Cook/Sue Cargal collection have been shelved under the "Wyoldies" link. Still looking for more oldies, whether from Wyoming or all across the midwest.
12-25-09
Round two of the Mike Cook/Sue Cargall Collection have been set up in the Wyoldies section. I may have some the years mismarked, which prompted me to eventually label the pics with a consecutive "Misc" name. Plenty of cool images to wile away the winter hours!
12-5-09
The first update of December has the images from the Expo and Wissota Banquet finally processed and ready for viewing under the 2009 link. We'll get back to more of the Cook-Cargal goodies next time
11-29-09
This update has a "1970's" feel to it, thanks to a boat load of photos supplied by Mike Cook and Sue Cargal. Located on the "Wyoldies" page, you'll find the first of several volumes. For starters, you'll find some pictures of the first Thunder Speedway under construction in 1970. Further surfing will reveal images from the ill fated Interstate Speedway in Sheridan, WY, and the short lived Moorcroft Speedway (would you believe located in Moorcroft?). There will be plenty more of these goodies to come in the following weeks.
On a side note, I will post the Wissota banquet once the SD card is returned! Hint hint!
11-24-09
Tis the Banquet season, and yes, I've had my fill! Awaiting the return on my SD card before I can post the Wissota Banquet, but images from Casper and Gillette, WY's, season ending fete-fests are under the 2009 link. Be on the lookout for a plethora of "oldies" from Wyoming, thanks to Sue Cargal and Mike Cook.
10-25-09
I am now finished with the Columbus, NE, vintage show pics...names and all! They have been unloaded to the 2009 page.
10-22-09
A bright, unusualy warm October day suited the late planned Kathy Morris Memorial at the Heartland Speedway. Aside from the various versions of the kart action, the Mini Sprints were also on the card. To add to the mix, a couple of modifieds from BHS toured the mini oval for some extra seat time. This venue could become a weekly haunt next summer on Saturday nights.
10-13-09
Day two of my Columbus trip photos are now ready for viewing. I didn't stay for the features, as the looming 8 hour drive weighed heavily on my enjoyment of the on track activity. I do have more to post, something I'm going to call "Race Cars In Repose", mostly pit side shots and some candid moments. Those will eventually find their way here.
10-9-09
Last weekend, I made my first foray to a Nebraska oval, fulfilling another item on my "Bucket List": The cornhusker Vintage Nationals in Columbus. A cool little getaway located in the eastern half of the "Cornhusker" state, also served as another first for me: no access to the infield for photo duties. I did learn to adapt to the change of shooting positions and the proof can be found towards the bottom of the 2009 link on the homepage. Day 2 and some pit shots/special interest photos will be added over the weekend. If you are into vintage racing, this is a must stop in 2010. John & Cheryl Ferguson will treat you right-and feed you right!
9-29-09
Though I wasn't able to make it to Jamestown and the Stampede, Saturday was still a full day that included some racing. After working all day, it was off to Kevin and Kristi Bliese's nuptials (congradulations you two!) and then to Heartland Speedway just south of Rapid City. It had been a while since visiting the go-kart track and I must say I was mighty impressed! The images, found under the usual 2009 link, are not well organized as I didn't have most of the names. If anyone can help me out in that department, I would be most grateful.
9-27-09
Well, I'm finally finished with the Wissota 100 photos! You probably don't need to be instructed, but they can be found under the 2009 banner. Made it to the local go-kart track last night, and will have those images ready tomorrow (I type this with fingers crossed).
9-25-09
I'm slowly getting the hundreds of '100' photos ready. Today, the second night's activities are documented and ready for viewing under, as you know, the 2009 link.
9-24-09
Night 3 of the 100 photos are now awaiting your critical eye under the 2009 banner (towards the bottom).
9-22-09
Still recouping from the big 4 day Wissota 100 in Huron. All in all, I would say the event was a success. So far, I've only prepared the final night of racing's photos ready for prying eyes. Divert said eyes to the 2009 banner, at the bottom.
9-14-09
Well, it took three days to get the two day East/West Clash completed over the weekend. Not too bad of racing for an impromptu afternoon show. Point your mouse to the bottom of the "2009" link for the images.
9-9-09
Last weekend I headed to two of my favorite speedplants-Aberdeen and Jamestown for three nights of superb racing. It's good to know racing is still alive and flourishing! The proof is under the 2009 heading.
8-31-09
My old HP PC had a bad weekend, thus the delay in getting this past weekends photos up for your "enjoyment". That is also the reason there will be no stories in the next issue of All The Dirt from those events. Everything seems to be flowing now, and if my vehicle is ready for another trek, I'll be headed for Aberdeen and Jamestown.
8-23-09
Only one night of racing this weekend; fortunately, it was for the CLMA show at Gillette Thunder Speedway Friday night. Along with tthe 30 count late model field, a dozen Dwarf cars were on hand. Although I didn't get any "during" shots, it must be stated that though they are "little cars", they wreck "big". You know where to find the photos...
8-18-09
Dakota State Fair Speedway photos are ready for your viewing pleasure (at least I hope) under the 2009 banner.
8-17-09
Finally made it to Miller and Huron over the weekend, a shorter than planned excursion but well worth the mileage nontheless! Some glitches prevented more heat race photos from Miller, but the end result is up and running under the 2009 nameplate. I'm still sorting through the Huron photos yet-possibly tomorrow.
8-9-09
A couple of wild nights of action at BHS and Gillette are documented under the 2009 banner. Next week I plan on living up to my "wandering" status with another excursion east-Miller, Jamestown and Watertown.
8-2-09
Another weekend at ovals close to home-BHS Friday night, last night in Gillette. Images are under their usual 2009 link.
7-26-09
Images from speed plants a little closer to home (BHS and Gillette) can be found under the 2009 link.
7-23-09
The rest of the images from my latest Minnesota adventures are now housed under the 2009 link.
7-21-09
Still feeling the effects of jetlag-four tracks in one weekend a heckuva long ways from my doorstep! Not all the images are up for viewing yet, though I do have the vintage cars from three Minnesota stops. You'll never find a better, friendlier group of racers than with the NVSR touring series. Thanks for making me feel like one of "vintage"! And a final note, get well Dennis Olson! I should have the other images proceessed and up for your viewing pleasure (or groans) in a few days.
7-12-09
Two great nights of racing (BHS and Thunder Speedway) are represented in some lukewarm images under the 2009 link.
7-8-09
Finally, the last installment of photos from the holiday weekend are ready! Click the 2009 banner on the homepage for I-90 Speedway photos. It was good to hear that the trio of drivers involved in that nasty backstretch flip are okay. In all my years of watching the winged warrirors, that tumble was one of the worst.
7-7-09
Nearly completed with the weekend's photos. Even though the racing portion of Nostalgia Night at Knoxville, IA, was a wash, I did manage to snap an image or two of the cars that had gathered for the event. I would appreciate some help identifying the drivers and hometowns of these cars. The plan had been to take in Shelby County Speedway in Harlan the following night, but, alas, it fell to the rains as well. Pudge Grabill, a vintage racer who happens to own two beautiful oldies, saved me from a bummer day with a trip through town to visit with some fellow vintage racers. All of these images are at the bottom of the 2009 page. I will try to have pictures from my stopover at Hartford, SD's, I-90 Speedway in a day or two.
7-6-09
Well, a cranial deficiency afflicting yours truly resulted in the June 28th photos from BHS not getting uploaded last week. For those in need to see what went down that night, they are now under the 2009 link. You'll also find a ton (literally!) of pics from the first official excursion of the year - to Willmar, MN. Great racing, good folks. Hope my pictures convey that sentiment. I did make the trek to Knoxville (a first for this traveler) for Nostalgia Night and...rain. I apologize for the onslaught of trailer shots that will be available for viewing as soon as I sort through the hundreds of images I attempted to grab between bouts of ill weather. Stay tuned!
6-28-09
Broke out some new camera gear at Thunder speedway in Gillette last night, with mixed results. You'll find the salvagable images under the 2009 link. BHS is scheduled to run tonight so those images will be posted later in the week. Should Mother Nature be in a gracious mood, I plan on hitting some events in Iowa during the long holiday weekend.
6-20-09
Again, managed to get in two nights of action at BHS and GTS, the evidence is stored under the 2009 link.
6-14-09
Racing finally resumed after last weekend's complete washout. Images from BHS and Thunder Speedway are neatly tucked away under the 2009 link.
5-31-09
More action from BHS and Thunder Speedway this weekend are under the 2009 link.
5-23-09
Well, the long weekend is going to net just one night of racing for the Western Wanderer. Finally had a successful shoot at Black Hills Speedway, of which those images are now posted under the 2009 banner. Iffy weather put the kabosh on any travel plans, now looking forward to next weekend at BHS and Gillette.
5-17-09
Had much better luck with the camera gear at Gillette Thunder Speedway last night. The proof is under the 2009 link. If mother nature is in a cooperative mood, I'll be heading to Hartford/Husets next weekend!
5-16-09
Had some issues with a flash card at last night's Black Hills Speedway opener. What images I was able to salvage are under the 2009 banner. The card, however, has been reduced to portions smaller than a single pixel.
5-12-09
As promised, images from Saturday's events in both Casper and Gillette are now awaiting your approval under the 2009 banner.
5-11-09
This wanderer had a very busy weekend...first to Casper for their car show and test session, followed by a hop to Gillette's Thunder Speedway for the second night of the season. I haven't uploaded those photos yet, but I do have yesterday's Black Hills Speedway test n tune session ready for viewing under the 2009 banner. The rest of the weekend's photos will hopefully be availble for your pleasure this time tomorrow.
5-3-09
Well, the 2009 season officially kicked off at Thunder Speedway in nearby Gillette last night, and I discovered half way through the proceedings that I have apparently forgotten how to use the equipment over the winter months. While there are some okay images, I wasn't completely pleased with my performance and promise to, as Jason Schierkolk talks it, bring my A-game next weekend. Check it out for yourself under the 2009 link.
4-25-09
I've finally been cleared to post photos of Troy Murner's newest ride: an incredibly prepared 1971 Chevelle modeled after his dad Butch's phenomenal early 1970's late model. The craftsmanship is stunning-keep an eye out for all the intricate details throughout the machine. It has been such a kick to visit with this father/son team and reminice about those good old days that still race in my mind. My bad, the photos are under the 2009 banner.
Winter continues to be a force throughout the region, cancelling all plans from Gillette to the middle South Dakota regions of Miller and Huron. Hopefully next weekend I'll be posting photos from an opener near you!
4-19-09
Images from the indoor Thunder Speedway car show can be viewed under the 2009 banner. The scheduled test n tune has been postponed to either Wednesday or Friday.
4-12-09
In case you haven't heard, the BHS test and tune/car show has been delayed to the never ending sn*w we've received this winter/spring. The plan for this wanderer is to take in Gillette's car show next weekend, and, weather permitting, test and tune at the speedway. Some missed photo opps have been added to the 2008 page.
4-5-09
The third blizard of the winter has most of the sane locked at home...good thing I found that stash of negatives! Some of those are posted this week-around 2 dozen images from the Cal Janssen collection are under the Racin' Round RC link. Some absolutely kewl images from BHS's earliest years are housed in that section. Maybe not as astounding, but in 1985, Gillette's Thunder Speedway hosted its first Enduro event. With camera in hand and little talent, I captured some items that may interest you. Head to the Gillette link and scroll to the bottom for the link up.
3-29-09
A blizzard forced a day of no work and some much needed housecleaning...which, to my pleasant surprise, yielded a huge box of negatives-including some long lost racing related items. First up, some nearly bad photos from the first Black Hills Speedway enduro in 1985. I've landed these items under the 1985 section of the Racin' Round Rapid link. The ill weather is also wreaking havoc with the Keester's re-do of BHS. Some of their accomplishments are recorded under the 2009 banner, dated 3-22-09.
3-22-09
It's getting closer to racing 2009! I'm teaming up with Darren Shanley of Aberdeen for sating all the race card needs for the new year. He does a fabulous job and the prices are almost impossible to beat! You can find all the necessary info from this link . I've added and revised the links page as well. I had some surgery this past week which has not allowed a great deal of effort to be devoted to additions to the site. I have some more things in store, so you'll just have to be patient!
3-14-09
This update consists of one item: Black Hills Speedway has a new website! Don Boit (a former photog phenom some years ago) has created a tasty piece of internet candy for all issues that are and will be related to the famed half mile oval. You can lumber over to the "Links" link, or link at this link: Black Hills Speedway.
3-2-09
A sudden decision to take in the World of Wheels car show at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center has necessitated an update so soon. While there were just four race cars on hand, what a quartet they were! Dave Olson and Mike Pennel had their sprint cars on hand (by the way, Dave has a 20NU machine, quite possibly a first for the "710" guy), and a pair of Gran Nationals: James Stands III in a Buick Regal and Willie Fetch's 1957 chevy. Yep, a 1957 chevy. With Black Hills Speedway's continual climb to it's former glory, it's fitting to have a touch of nostalgia among the Friday night entries, don't you think?
3-1-09
The official 1976 State Fair Speedway program from Huron, SD, can be read under the "Get your Programs" link, and an issue of Dirt Track News sent to me three decades ago by Bob Johnson can be gleened at the Stop The Pressess link.
2-15-09
Spent some quality time with the computer this week, and finally prepared some more photos on the Jim Holland Experience page. You'll find some odds and ends and beautiful black and white shots from 1984. Under the Racin' Round RC page, I've added some articles Mike Gillian sent along with those great photos posted on Jan. 18.
2-8-09
Butch Knouse's "Just the Facts" has been changed to "The Mad Statter", a more fitting moniker to the wizard of record keeping. He has also sent along the win list of many of the touring series that have treked through the region over the years. Again, it's been hectic on the home front, plus we're getting closer to finishing the new Super Stock member of the family, so this week's offerings are as precious as they are few.
2-1-09
Too much going on at the home front, so this week's update will be brief-though a fascinating read! Butch Knouse has sent along the updated win totals for Brown County Speedway in Aberdeen, SD, along with a fresh batch of facts from Raceway Park in Jefferson, SD (last known to me as Interstate Speedway). I promise to have some more eye treasures with the next update!
1-18-09
The postman delivered a fresh batch of "Oldness" this past week. Former military family member Mike Gillian sent a disc filled with 1950's goodies that are safely housed under the "Racin' Round RC" banner. Just look for the "Mike and John Gillian 1950's Collection" header and prepare for absolute joy. A big kudos to Mike for doing all the work this time-I had it easy, just load 'em up.
1-4-09
Hopefully everyone survived the turning of the calendar! After a two week hiatus, more black and white greatness from the mastery of Jim Holland have been added to his page-the Jim Holland Experience. Plus, Butch Knouse, the in-house "Mad Statter" has passed along the revised feature win totals for the Park Jefferson Speedway. You'll have to wander over to the Just The Facts link for those details. I received an e-mail from the son of a former BHS racer/fan from the 1950's, who will be sending along a trove of goodies from that era for the world (at least this part of it, anyway) to enjoy. If you're like me, you won't hardly be able to wait!
12-21-08
This week features more black and white beauties from the lenses of Jim Holland (The Jim Holland Experience on the front page), and our resident "Mad Statter" Butch Knouse has kindly forwarded the current stats on both the Dakota State Fair Speedway in Huron and Huset's speedway near Brandon, SD. This will likely be the last update of this year, as I may be making another trek to Minnesota over the Holidays to retrieve another race car!
12-14-08
Been under the weather for a while now...so this update is to finish out the 2002 season in photographs. Atypically, they are under the "2002" banner. A more concise update is on the table for next week.
11-30-08
A belated Happy Thanksgiving to all! I have a mess-a-updates this week. Under the "Get Your Programs" section, I've added the 1971 State Fair Speedway (Huron, SD) newspaper. It's in a PDF format, which makes the images easier to read. A recently acquired B/W scanner and a ton (literally) of Black and White neggies on loan from Jim Holland have kept me tied to the computer (well, more than usual, anyway). I managed to wade through all of Jim's 1980 work and is presented under the "Jim Holland Experience" section. Happy surfing!
11-23-08
Photos from the Gillette Banquet have nestled in under the 2008 banner. A good time was had by all, or least, by me. I'm in the process of moving everything to a new computer, so it may be awhile before the next big update.
11-16-08
Remember, it's banquet season! I'll likely be at the Gillette chow and bow, as I had already made the commitment before the Rapid City announcement...ah, if a person could only be in two places at once (more buffets that way). Anyhow, all I have for you this week is the second installment of photos from the lens of Don Boit (link on the home page).
11-8-08
After two days of shoveling snow, I needed a retreat to the warmth of my computer...and to get some updates for your amusement. I have finished scanning all of my negatives (whew!), of which you'll find a few newcomers under the 2002 banner, plus I have started scanning Don Boit's mound of neggies. Don was a protege of ours back in the late 1989's, early 1990's at black Hills Speedway while just a young'un. I truly wish he would have stayed with it-the kid was awesome-especially if you would have seen the limited equipment he had! On the front page, you'll find the first round of his work under the "Don Boit..." banner. Be sure to check it out!
10-26-08
A few new additions this week: 2001 Fairmont Raceway photos (found in the "2001" section) and pics from Aberdeen and Huron 2002 (oddly enough housed in the "2002" designation). Not much else to add as of late.
10-19-08
First off, Rock Rapids, IA's Rapid Speedway's up to date stats are under Donald Knouse's "Just the Facts" icon on the homepage. For some reason, I forgot to upload that portion last week...
I'm also trying something new, a "Digital Yearbook" protype at the bottom of the 2008 link. My inaugural attempt at something new features the 13th Annual Webster city Vintage Car reunion for your critique. Thanks to Ron Gustafson, the man in charge of the event, I was able to collect some data that my viewer(s?) may find interesting. I have more to add, but I've been wanting to get this into the public for a while now.
10-12-08
While at the Vintage Race Car Reunion in Webster City, IA, last month, I met a sign painter/vintage car racer by the name of "Pudge", and danged if he didn't own up to having a pile of pics from the Iowa racing area from years ago. Well, thanks to Brian Dotzler and his scanning wizardry, I'm able to present this collection (dubbed the "Pudge Grabill Collection") under the "I've Been Everywhere" banner (the last row of the Iowa entries)
Also this week, Don Knouse has supplied some farm-fresh stats for the "Just The Facts" page. Updates include the Miller, Watertown and Hartford ovals, and a new listing for the Winner area. Happy viewing and see you again in a few weeks.
9-30-08
Photos from the two night Winter Nationals in Aberdeen, SD, are under the 2008 banner. With apologizes to Butch Knouse, there will be a plethora of updates in the "Just The Facts" site now that my summer racing travels are over. There will be many more additions to the oldies sections in the near future as well. Stay tuned!
9-24-08
Whew! Night two of the Stampede is now housed under the 2008 banner. Next up: The Winter Nationals in Aberdeen, proceded by a well deserved winter's rest.
9-23-08
With 289 cars at the 37th Annual Stampede in Jamestown, ND, it's taken a bit longer to process the two nights of photos I was happily snapping up. For now, the first night's pics are under the 2008 banner-night two is under construction as you read this and should be posted within a day or two.
9-16-08
Finally get the Wissota Western 100 chills out of my bones and pictures ready for viewing! As usual, they are housed under the 2008 link and yes, you can still order the "Official" event photos post paid at anytime!
9-8-08
I ventured to Webster City, IA, for the 13th Annual Vintage Car Reunion over the weekend-what a rush! Two nights of old race cars, talking to the "new" vintage drivers as well as the veterans and snapping a picture or two. The bleak weather forecast kept the number of enteries down, but not my excitement. This event had been a must see for the past few years, always on the same weekend as the Clash in Gillette. With Gillette taking the weekend off to prepare for the 100, I had no excuse to spend a combined 20 hours at the wheel of the Caravan. A big thank you to Ron Gustafson and crew-and the great collection of old/new iron. I've cataloged the photos under the 2008 link, with each night getting a seperate entry. I had also taken a newly acquired "pocket size" camera and went a little overboard...those are under the "Webster City Misc. link" on the same page.
8-31-08
Rapid City and Gillette images from the Labor Day weekend are at the 2008 link.
8-25-08
Rapid City and Gillette images from this past weekend are under the 2008 link.
8-17-08
A strange meterological phenomonem occurs everytime Shane Liebig and the World of Outlaws come together...the heartiest of droughts could be eradicated simply by bringing these two forces together. Photos from the rain killed sprint car show in Gillette and the following night's activities at Black Hills Speedway can be found under the 2008 icon.
8-10-08
Finally, the Madison Speedway images are ready. You'll also find pics from this weekends activities at the Black Hills Speedway and Thunder Speedway under the same 2008 link.
8-6-08
A long yet incredibly fantastic weekend of racing from a pair of Wisconsin tracks can be found under the 2008 section, including seperate links for the vintage car group NVSR. A computer glitch stopped the process of getting the Madison, MN, photos ready for this weeks update. Hopefully that issue has been resolved and they will join the action from both the Rapid City and Gillette ovals (weather permitting). Under the "Just The Facts", Butch Knouse has sent the winners from the Roll-n-wheel Raceway in Mitchell. Should be something for everyone this week.
7-27-08
Images from another two great nights of racing from both the Rapid City and Gillette ovals can be found under the 2008 link.
7-23-08
A three night tour beginning in Gillette and concluding in Belgrade, MT, produced some great racing-evidence of which are located under the 2008 banner.
7-13-08
Images from this weekend's Black Hills Speedway and Gillette Thunder Speedway can be accessed through the 2008 portal. With all apologies to Rick Dumire, I have repaired the link for the second volume of his collection. I could blame Bill Gates for the error, but....Under the same "Eastern South Dakota Scene" banner I have (hopefully) added photos from former Pierre racer Ron Purkapile under the appropriately named heading of "Ron Purkapile Collection".
7-9-08
Another weekend, another 3 nights of great racing around South Dakota. This time I ventured to the Miller, Huron and Brandon ovals, the evidence presented under the "2008" heading. And as promised, two volumes of photos from the vault of Rick Dumire are now housed under the Eastern South Dakota Scene link. There are some very cool modified photos in this update, folks.
7-2-08
Evidence of a fantastic weekend of racing this past weekend can be found under the 2008 link. Hit the Aberdeen, Jamestown and Watertown ovals for a trio of racing excellence. I also met up with Rick Dumire, who has offered up some golden oldies from his own private vault and I should have those pictures ready to post on the next update. Which, hopefully, will include new images from a planned excursion to Miller, Huron and Sioux Falls speed plants!
6-23-08
A bit late, but this past weekend's photos from Gillette and Rapid City are now housed under the 2008 header. I've also repaired a boo-boo on my part...of the Don Brady Collection Vol. 4. I had one picture upside down! Thanks to Don for pointing it out to me. Hope to travel east this weekend, starting in Aberdeen, procede to Jamestown then Watertown. Weather permitting, of course.
6-17-08
I know, late again...hopefully it will have been worth the wait. Black Hills Speedway opened last Friday, and those photos are under the 2008 heading. As are a plethora of photos from Gillette Thunder Speedway the following night. For you nostalgia buffs, Don Brady Jr. has supplied another page of fascinating eastern South Dakota images that are, oddly enough, under the Eastern South Dakota Scene page. Truly something for everyone this week. Also, the Links page has been updated.
6-8-08
Three helpings of oldie photos from the Don Brady Jr. collection are now housed under the "Eastern South Dakota Scene" page. A big thank you to Don and his family for adding some incredible photos to the site (my favorite is the big old Hudson with the three digit numberage). Got a little wet in Gillette last night, but managed to snap a few shots before rain cancelled the party after the heat races. For the interested, those photos are under the "2008" heading. I've also changed the link to the new and improved Black Hills Speedway website oddly enough under the "links" page.
6-2-08
Spent the weekend at Hartford, SD's I-90 Speedway, and the proof can be found under the 2008 heading. Some more photos of the BHS rebuild are also located in that file. While in the area of Sioux Falls, I dropped in on Don Brady with my trusty scanner and digitized a slug of photographs from his family's collection. I'll hopefully have those nuggets of nostalgia up for this coming weekend's update.
5-25-08
What was to be a three night race fest through eastern South Dakota, became a rain plagued somewhat boring three day holiday weekend. Updates this week include photos from the 2001 seaons at Huset's and Casino Speedways. Also, there is a new section under the 2008 banner to follow the progress of the Black Hills Speedway rebuild. And Butch Knouse has sent over the winners sheets from the ill fated Brookings, SD, oval. Remember all those that have given the ultimate price for our freedom this Memorial Day.
5-18-08
Last night's Gillette thunder Speedway photos are now up under the "2008" header. For 3 nights in 2001, I followed a group of vintage racers to three Minnesota venues: Chateau Speedway (Lansing), Deer Creek Speedway and Kasson Speedway. Their photos, plus the top runners among the other divisions racing those nights, can be found under the 2001 heading.
5-12-08
Images from last night's events at Gillette Thunder Speedway can be viewed under the "2008" link.
5-10-08
Mother Nature's wintery grip has again wiped out most of the racing scene this weekend...there may be a trip to Gillette Sunday night, but nothing definate yet. This week I've added to the "Stop The Presses" page the 1970 Black Hills Speedway articles that appeared courtesy of the Rapid City Journal. As for photos, the 2001 Jackson Speedway season are under the 2001 heading on the left panel of the home page.
5-3-08
The first (and HOPEFULLY last) big snow storm of the winter season has virtually shut down the entire traveling distance, so this weeks updates include some tweaking to the front page (had to do something to stave off the boredom) and photos from my first visit to Mandan, ND,'s Dacotah Speedway in 2001. Butch Knouse has added some more datum to his "Just the Facts" page.
4-28-08
Still out of breath from a hectic weekend-between moving, snowstorms and endless highway miles, I did manage to take in Gillette thunder Speedway's opener Sunday night. Those images can be found under the 2008 heading.
4-20-08
Butch Knouse unleashes "Just the Facts" on Huron's Valley Speedway this week. First photos of the 2008 season are under the (co-incidently enough) 2008 banner of Gillette Thunder Speedway's Test-n-tune/Car Show. Images captured by yours truly from Jamestown, ND, and Glyndon, MN, ovals can spotted under the "2001" heading. Next week I'll be in the Huron area for a family move.
4-12-08
Plans to trek to Miller for their test and tune event were cancelled by snow and rain, so I'm adding a buncha photos taken from treks in 2005 (that, for some reason, I thought I had included long before), including Miller's rebirth event in September of that year. Butch Knouse has forwarded stats from the Northwest Speedway, a track that operated (oddly enough), northwest of Huron in the 1960's. You just might recognize a name or two. The 2008 season is cranking up and with co-operation from the weather gods, I'll be in Gillette for their car show and test/tune event next weekend.
4-5-08
A couple tracks are added to the site this week-1998 Interstate Speedway in Jefferson (Eastern South Dakota Scene), 1997 Red Evil Speedway (Hartford, SD) and Buena Vista Raceway (Alta, IA). Hopefully, in a week or so, I'll be adding some pics of Hughes Racing's 2008 effort. We're not exactly sure where we'll be racing, with the future of Black Hills Speedway in silenced limbo.
3-29-08
Huset's Speedway gets the brunt of this week's updates-three seasons worth of photos under the Eastern South Dakota Scene link. To the I've Been Everywhere link, you'll find some tasty morsels from my first visit to the Arlington, MN, oval, featuring their regular program followed by a day of fun with the IMCA Oldtimer's club. Butch Knouse is offering up the goods on the Just Facts Page concerning the Soo Speedway in Sioux Falls. Enjoy!
3-23-08
I've added photos from the 2001 Brown County Speedway season-including the Wet Wissota Western 100.
3-15-08
I've added three more tracks worth of photos from my 1998 excursions-Alta and Algona in Iowa and Jackson Speedway in MN. Check out the Replica's page for a cool in scale version of a Ron Droog classic. Some tweaking to the Husets and Black Hills Speedway stats pages have been made also.
3-9-08
Regretably, South Dakota has lost another race track. Lake County Speedway, outside of Madison, in operation for some 40 years, will not re-open in 2008. This week's update features some photos I snapped on a 1999 jaunt to the infamous speedplant, which can be found under the Eastern SD Racing Scene section. Other photos from 1999 included this weekend are those from my first visit to probably the finest speedway to be found in Montana, Gallatin Speedway in Belgrade. Search the Montana round Up area for those efforts. Under the "I've Been Everywhere" heading, snapshots from what was becoming an annual trek to Jamestown can be found. Lastly, Butch Knouse pointed out that I hadn't finished with an update on the Madison stats, so that has also been corrected this week.
3-2-08
More photos from "I've Been Everywhere" destinations have been added and yet another round of "Just The Facts" to keep you entertained until next week!
2-24-08
Again, concentrating on the "I've Been Everywhere" portion, you'll find pics from my first sojourn to the Jamestown Speedway and as of yet my only appearance at the West Fargo, ND, facility in 1998. I'm also starting a new section called "Scaled Replica", which invites all model builders of any scale and material to submit your take on midwest machinery throughout the years. To kick off this new venture, a Jim Holland creation (dating back to the late 70's-early 80's) of the late great Jim Matthews can be found HERE. Also, the latest offering from that mad statistition himself, Butch Knouse, is served up on the "Just the Facts" portion.
2-17-08
This week I am launching a new segment called "I've been Everywhere, Man...", a place for photos I've taken on extended track treks to regions outside the borders. Also in the mix are a group of items culled from the Roger Alstine collection, who at one time had the legendary Bob Shryock as his pilot while still living in Iowa. The new page can be accessed via the home page under the heading "I've been...", well, you get the point. Or you can just click here to make the mission a bit easier.
2-10-08
A few updates this week...a nasty cold has diminished my abilities to get much of anything accomplished. That said, I am adding photos taken on a long weekend triip to the eastern side of the state in 1996-Park Jefferson and Huset's. I've added a few new members to the links family, and have regrettable removed a few. Jeff Hulings closed down his Mountain west forum, and the Napa/MDA site has closed.
2-3-08
Hard to believe, but this week marks the first birthday of this site...it's been a lot of work but the results have been mostly favorable. I've gotten some of the names wrong, which I am working at correcting, as well as adding as much "new" old items as I can. This week, I've added images from my track treks to various South Dakota points, including both of the Jefferson ovals and the Winner Speedway in 1995, and my first ever visit to the Hartford oval in 1996. As I've stated in the past, I'm always open to comments and more importantly, old material for everyone to enjoy.
1-27-08
New this week: Dakota State Fair Speedway (Huron, SD) 2001 season are under the appropriately named link, and under the Eastern South Dakota Racing Scene 1995 entries from both the Madison and Sioux Falls (er, make that Brandon) facilities have been added. That mad statistician we all know as Butch Knouse has been at it again, this time with an impressive listing of winners from the various touring series that have graced the state.
1-20-08
A few changes this week-like relocating the Huron 2000 photos under the "2000" heading where they should be! I have also re-vamped the early photos in the Eastern South Dakota Racing Scene folder for (hopefully) easier navigation. It took awhile, but I have completed the 2000 Aberdeen photos as well (and yes, they are rightfully located under the "2000" heading). Still seeking input for the Dale Wagner tribute page.
1-13-08
I've found a new program in which to present photos, which, in my humble opinion, makes navigation much easier. Starting with the only new photos on the page this time around, Huron 2000 (check out the vintage iron that had an event there early in the year), check out and let me know if you find the new design to your liking. Oh, I've also re-shaped the 1972, 1973 and 1974 Black Hills Speedway season under the Racin' Round Rapid banner.
1-8-08
Updates this week: a ton of photos from Black Hills Speedway (2002) and Gillette Thunder Speedway (2001-2002), completing all the photos I currently have from those tracks, from the early years to present. I've always initiated a memorial page, dubbed "In Memory and Memories" as a tribute to our fallen racers. Unfortunately, this collection continues to swell, with the recent additions of Buddy Jumping Elk, Robert Hamm and Dale Wagner. As time permits, this selection will grow. I am asking for some input in this area, dear readers. As I don't know these people directly, an anecdote or two from your association with them would be a welcome addition to their memory.
1-1-08
Happy New Year! Hard to believe that this site is almost a year old-and ready for the terrible two's. Some more facts await your approval under the "Just the Facts" heading, while photo hounds will find a plethora of images from both Aberdeen and Huron's 1999 season under the "Eastern South Dakota Scene" selection. A big thank you goes out to Jim Holland for the finest photograph existing of Mearl Tschetter that is proudly displayed on the home page. There are still 1000's of negatives to scan in the off season months from all over the region, so please be patient. I have received a ton of e-mails concerning old photos from the Husets/Sioux Falls area. If anyone would like to share memories from this region, please do not hesitate to e-mail me at the addy on the home page.
12-23-07
I have revamped the "Eastern South Dakota Scene" in order to put things into, well, order. New photos this week are the 2001 season of Black Hills Speedway (under the 2001 heading on the home page) and photos of some very cool cars from the 2002 IMCA Oldtimer's show in Arlington, MN (they are under the 2002 heading). The latest offering from Butch Knouse's stat book has the entire Madison, SD, win listing. With great sadness, we have lost another one of our brethren. Eric Monson, a Mod-4 racer from Harwood, ND, died of injuries from a rollover this past Friday. Hope everyone has a grateful Christmas holiday.
12-16-07
In an attempt to keep the site more organized, beginning with the year 2000 photos will be under the yearly designation on the home page. To kick off this new idea, you will find photos from Black Hills Speedway, Gillette's Thunder Speedway and my lone trip to Billings, MT that year. Also this week, a slug of updates on the "Just the Facts" page, thanks again to Butch Knouse. He's enticing me with a host of datum from several other speedplants, including several that have long since been shuttered. The saddest element of this update is marking the passing of Mearl Tschetter at age 54. Those in the know recognize him as the driving force behind the Napa/MDA Racing For A Cure series that enjoyed a healthy run these past few years. Godspeed, Mearl.
12-9-07
To honor one of the best in the business, I'm adding an entire page dedicated to the lens work of Jim Holland. Jim has unwillingly served as my mentor for the past 25 years-I think some of his talent is being to rub onto me finally. Also among the updates this time, photos from the 1999 Thunder Speedway can be found under the "Gillette" heading, and I've added Magic City Speedway (Billings, MT) photos from a 1999 visit under the "Montana Roundup section. Enjoy!
12-3-07
Pictures from the Gillette banquet have been included in this update (under "2007"). The Nikon Cool Scan V ED has been pushed to it's limits, allowing images from the 1998 season at the Huron, SD, oval and the 1999 BHS season to join the lineup. Until a proper Memorial Page is established, it is with heavy heart to announce two more legends have gone to that big oval in the sky. Childhood favorite Leo Ray passed away at age 83, and Larry Heinzerling at 73. Long may they race in peace.
11-24-07
Well, this week you'll find a new page to the Wyoldies section, which also houses the photos from my first trip to the Sheridan Speedway in 1998. Thanks to Becky at Miller speedway, I have more South Dakota oldies courtesy Gary Namanny under the "South Dakota Scene" link, which also includes all the photos taken at Brown County Speedway in 1998. Thunder Speedway now has photos from the 1997 and 1998 seasons as well. Whew!
11-12-07
Hopefully I can return to regular updates now that the 2007 racing season is 100% over (minus the Gillette banquet next weeked). This update includes photos from the 1998 Black Hills Speedways season, the 1997 Huron SD and Watertown SD visits and I added some new entries into the "Is It Art II" mix. I must apologize to the fine folks at Casino Speedway, as my lone visit of 1997 found me with a broken camera, reverting to call into use my $10 point and shoot Vivitar.
10-19-07
The negative scanner has been getting a workout lately...have added photos from the 1997 Brown County Speedway season. Click HERE to go to the Eastern South Dakota Scene.
10-11-07
Winter Nationals photos are now posted under the 2007 link.
10-1-07
Wissota Western 100 and Stampede photos are to be found under the 2007 link.
9-4-07
Labor day weekend photos from BHS and Gillette Thunder Speedway are now posted in the 2007 link. Also, Delwain Lehr, a mod man from Aberdeen, SD, has lent at least part of his collection for me to turn into digital enjoyment for those who wonder to the site. You'll have to wonder over to the Eastern South Dakota link to find the Lehr collection.
8-26-07
Thanks to Claire McKenney, I've redesigned the "Wyoldies" section, formerly found under the Gillette Thunder Speedway heading, now under it's own header on the home page. You'll find the entire 1974 Wyoming State Auto Racing Annual and a nifty program from Sheridan Speedway circa 1975. Having a weekend away from the area racing (thanks to rain, and other things around the house needing attention), I'm happy to announce the 1997 BHS photos have been added to the Racin' Round RC page.
8-22-07
Images from last Sunday evenings Black Hills Speedway show are housed under the 2007 heading.
8-18-07
Thanks to some of Mother Nature's most volitale works, I was able to spend some time in front of the computer to get all of last's images kicked into shape. By clicking here, you'll get to the 2007 page where I've housed images from my Chateau Speedway, Rice Lake Speedway and Husets excursions. Also, some more of my "art work" can be found under the Is It Art link.
8-15-07
This update is a precursor to a full fledge update once I sort through the photos taken on my recent sojourn to Chateau Speedway in Lansing, MN, Ricke Lake, WI and Husets. All I have had time for is to get the Northern Vintage Stockcar Racers page ready, which can be reached by clicking here.
8-7-07
"Topless" late models can be found in the 2007 heading, as the CLMA removed cover for the Rapid City and Gillette shows.
7-31-07
Sprint cars abound in this weeks update. ASCS photos from both Black Hills Speedway and Gillette Thunder Speedway can be found under the 2007 heading.
7-23-07
The Montana Napa/MDA Racing For A Cure tour ended up not being in the cards last weekend. Instead, settled for racing entertainment closer to home-Rapid on Friday, Gillette on Saturday. Those photo efforts are under the 2007 heading.
Also! Some truly awesome material from Doug Urban concerning the early years of racing in the Huron, SD, region, circa 1963 and beyond. Be sure to check out the rule sheets! All this and so much more under the Eastern Racing Scene link.