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Monroe Motor Speedway Results of 08/09/08
SportMods Division:
Dash Race: 1st- No. 97 Richie Bowden, 2nd- No 8 Brandon Kent, 3rd- No. 9 Jordan Smith, 4th-No. 88 Jimmy Whitlock
Heat Race 1: 1st- No. 16 Eddie Underwood, 2nd- No. 18 Jerry Jones, 3rd- No. P17 Kevin Patrick, 4th- No. 7n Shelli East, 5th- No. 21 Heath Redden
Heat Race 2: 1st- No. X Bud Mullins, 2nd- 7, 3rd- 12b Bubba Mullins, 4th- No. 27 Chase DelRio , 5th -No. z23 Drew Ziegler
Heat Race 3: 1st- No. 99 Mark Underwood, 2nd- 54x Jarred Wallace, 3rd- 9 Jordan Smith, 4th- No. 88 Jimmy Whitlock, 5th -No. 44 Rob Neal
Feature Race: 1st- No. X Bud Mullins, 2nd- 12b Bubba Mullins, 3rd- 9 Jordan Smith, 4th- No. 99 Mark Underwood, 5th-27 Chase DelRio
Late Model Division:
Dash Race: 1st- No. 44 Don Plunk, 2nd- No. 58c Garrett Durrett, 3rd- No. J1 Joey Couvillion, 4th- No. 46 Nick Glaze
Heat Race 1: 1st- No. 23 Darin Patrick, 2nd- No. T17 Chuck Terry, 3rd- No. 15 Tyler Burnett, 4th- 602 D. W. Goodman
Heat Race 2: 1st- No. J1 Joey Couvillion, 2nd- No. 46 Nick Glaze, 3rd- No. 44 Don Plunk
Feature Race: 1st- No. 46 Nick Glaze, 2nd- 44 Don Plunk, 3rd- 58c Garrett Durrett, 4th- No. 23 Darin Patrick, 5th- No. J1 Joey Couvillion
Bombers Division:
Dash Race: 1st- No. 00 Jamie Shirley, 2nd- No. 67 Randy Nixon, 3rd- No. 62 Jerry Jones, 4th- No. 442 Brian Baker
Heat Race: 1st- No. 00 Jamie Shirley, Jr., 2nd- 50x. Joey Vergo, 3rd- No. 62 Jerry Jones, 4th- No. 67 Randy Nixon, 5th- No. 442 Brian Baker
Feature Race: 1st- No. 50x Joey Vergo, 2nd - No. 62 Jerry Jones, 3rd- No. 67 Randy Nixon, 4th- No. 00 Jamie Shirley, 5th-m No. 88 Ty Tomboli
Legends Division:
Dash Race: 1st- No. La31 Marcus Frisch, 2nd- No 32 Kevin Dixon, 3rd- No. 9 Ronny Freeland, 4th- No. 13 Jackie Ryan
Heat Race 1: 1st- 34 Chris Freeland, 2nd- No. 19 Christopher Freeland, 3rd- No. 23 Joe Pike, 4th- No. 7 Lee Roy Howard, 5th- No. 3D Courtenay Broom
Heat Race 2: 1st- No. 9 Ronny Freeland, 2nd- No. La31 Marcus Frisch, 3rd- No. 32 Kevin Dixon, 4th- No. 13 Jackie Ryan, 5th- No. 72 Greg Kemp
Feature Race: 1st- No. 19 Christopher Freeland, 2nd- No. 34 Chris Freeland, 3rd- No. LA31 Paul Frisch, 4th- No. 32 Kevin Dixon, 5th- No. 9 Ronny Freeland
Compacts Division:
Dash Race: 1st- No. 4 Rodney Ates, 2nd- No. 30 Billy Tull, 3rd- No. 38 Kenny Wilkerson, 4th- No. 28 Chain Fuller
Heat Race 1: 1st- No. 49 Cory Underwood, 2nd- No. 05 Tiffany Hemphill, 3rd- No. 76 Curtis Stodghill, 4th - No. 12 Hunter Lowery , 5th- No. cc21 Angela Green
Heat Race 2: 1st- No. 57 Megan Owens, 2nd- No. 9 Todd Sanders, 3rd- No. 97 Becky Vorhees , 4th- No. 19 Dennis Parker, 5th- No. 23 Mathew Smith
Heat Race 3: 1st- No.4 Rodney Ates, 2nd- No. 38 Kenny Wilkerson, 3rd- No.30 Billy Tull, 4th- No. 1 Ryan Beach, 5th- No. P8 Sarah Nelson
Feature Race 1: 1st- No. 19 Dennis Parker, 2nd- No.12 Hunter Lowery, 3rd- No. 05 Tiffany Hemphill, 4th- No. 49 Cory Underwood, 5th- No. 57 Megan Owens
Feature Race 2: 1st- No. 4 Rodney Ates, 2nd- No1 Ryan Beach, 3rd- No. P8 Sarah Nelson, 4th- No. 99 Devin Richards, 5th- No. 9 Todd Sanders
Modified Division:
Dash Race: 1st- No. 98 Lee Jay Haddox, 2nd- No. 97 Richie Bowden, 3rd- No. 10 Shane Walker, 4th- No. 7s Jodey Reep
Heat Race1: 1st- No. 3B Brian Burch, 2nd- No. H5 Nicholas Hodge, 3rd- No. 9c Josh Pitts, 4th-No. D6 Chris Huckaby, 5th- No. c24 David Colvin
Heat Race 2: 1st- No. 198 Lee Jay Haddox, 2nd- No. 98 Jake Haddox, 3rd- No. 97 Cade Dillard, 4th-No. 10 Shane Walker
Feature Race: 1st- 97 Cade Dillard, 2nd- No. 3B Brian Burch, 3rd- No.198 Jake Haddox, 4th- No.23 Ryan Humphreys, 5th- No. H5 Nicholas Hodge
Bandits:
Dash: 1st- No. 3K Tanner Kellick, 2nd - No. 97 Jacob Nixon, 3rd-No. 13 Payton Ryan, 4th- No. 62 Logan Gandy
Heat Race: 1st- No. 3K Tanner Kellick, 2nd - No. 13 Payton Ryan, 3rd-No. 62 Logan Gandy, 4th- No. 97 Jacob Nixon, 5th- No. 15 Tyler Burnett
Feature Race: 1st- No.3K Tanner Kellick, 2nd- No. 97 Jacob Nixon, 3rd- No. 62 Logan Gandy, 4th- No. 15 Tyler Burnett, 5th- No. 13 Payton Ryan
14 year old Warren East took a wild ride Saturday night. He came out of turn 1 when the next thing you know he was flying through the air. His car went 360 degrees around hitting the wall causing him to land on all 4 tires. He quickly excited the car as gas started to pour out from under it. All that was left on the car from his wild ride was the sides, the whole top panels were torn off to expose the roll cage. What did this young man say after the event, “I need another car, let’s go racing.” Also involved in the wreck was No. 54, Dusty Meyers. His only comment was he was a little sore. Word in the pits is it will several weeks before the car is back together and ready to race. Both drivers excited their vehicles and are doing fine except for a little soreness. Credit has to go to the safety crew and their quick response, once again looking out for the driver’s safety.
The young driver of the No. 46 car in the Late Model division is someone to watch. Presently, Nick Glaze is at the top of the points in his division. It is no wonder why he is at the top by the way this young man makes his way around the track. Not only does he make his way around the track, he makes his way around the country also. Nick has a love for racing and hopes to one day be noticed by NASCAR. His next adventure of some national exposure will take place on November 15th at the Memphis Motorsports Park in Memphis, Tennessee. Nick will be taking his No. 46 car and compete in a 300 lap race. If you would like to help out one of our local drivers, he can us some sponsors to help defray the costs of going and competing in Memphis. Then in December he will head to Pensacola, Florida. Practice will take place on December 4th and he will qualify on the 5th with the Snowflake 100 being held on December the 6th. If you would like to help out, you can contact the folks at Monroe Speedway or access Nick’s website at www.nickglazeracing.com.
Dickie Patterson can be found doing it all when it comes to safety. He is from Rocky Branch, up in Union Parish, and has been around racing for some 20 years. He is the head of the safety crew. His job is to make sure everyone is on the same page and have the driver’s safety as their utmost concern. He works in the pits to assure safety of cars getting to and off the track. He makes sure the crew in the infield is ready and on the spot when the time arises. Making sure the wrecker drivers are where they should be at the right time is another one of his functions. Dickie said, “Yes, they call me the head safety man, but I am trying to hand that title down. When my son is racing I devote my time to him and the vehicle. I try and let someone else keep the show running safely and smoothly.” He still is on the radio answering questions and helping out when he can. His wife, Karen, has been adopted as the cook for the crew. She makes sure the crew has drinks and food to keep them going in providing their much needed job. Racing family indeed, dad, mom, and son Thornton, all at the track each Saturday night. Incidentally, Thornton drives the No. 7 pink truck in the bomber division and the crowd goes wild when he is on the track.
Owners—these are the people that put the money up for an event to happen and tell folks what to do. These are also the people we think of as being in their ivory tower and do not want to be messed with me. This perception does not hold true at the Monroe Speedway. I was greeted by an owner and his lovely wife. We talked a bit and then they decided to take a tour of the pits. So we walked around looking at different things and all the people in the pits. The races started and the two were amazed at all the excitement coming from the pits and fans across the way. After a few races they decided to go back to the other side. Thinking to myself, these folks did not have to talk to me or walk with me, but they did and the feeling was they truly cared about the race track and all the people involved. Yes, they made an investment, but also showed they are down to earth and human just like us. It was a good feeling and really was special to be treated so nice from some of them that have made this venue such a pleasure to be at and be a part of all the excitement. Incidentally, they are really pleased on how the track is doing and are still making improvement for the betterment of the drivers and fans.
Monroe Speedway takes to the radio waves each Tuesday night starting at 6pm on radio station ESPN 97.7. The show is hosted by general manager of the race track, Jerry Smith.
You can catch the show on 97.7fm or on the web at www.espn977.com.
Notes from the pits: Billy Cruse is out of the woods and feeling much better. He said, “I am doing better and go back to the doctor Monday. I am not completely up to 100% yet, but I am getting around much easier now.” It will mostly likely be October when he will be released to go back to work. He said, “I would like to thank all the drivers and fans for their kind concerns and support and I will be back to the track soon.”
Keith Warner, who drives the No. 8 car in the Late Model division is doing fine, but still has a lot of soreness in his back. He was explaining to me that the harness belts really secure you in so it made for a hard hit. He said, “I am not 100% back to normal yet, but next Saturday I will be back, no matter what, with a new body and better car.” He says he hopes he will be able to get back in the car and then said,” I will get back in the car Saturday.” The cob webs were still with him from not racing in years as he joked with me saying the wreck just knocked the rest of the cob webs off and he is rearing to go. He asked me to pass on this message “Tell everyone I appreciate all the folks who called and emailed me. I want them all to know I appreciate it very much, it means a lot”
One last and important note, the water is on and the port-a-johns are gone.
Be sure to check out the blog section at www.thenewsstar.com for all the latest in local and national racing news. Track photos can also be seen online in the photo gallery and remember the track’s website for all the latest news. www.monroemotorspeedway.com.
DRIVERS---if you would like to be featured one week, please send me your bio.
Send to: racingreporter@yahoo.com.
Racing News---It seems that Dixie Speedway in Farmerville has closed down. The following message was on the speedway’s forum, “Rocky spent the day with lawyers today trying to work things out, but was unsuccessful. His only option was to file bankruptcy, and to close the track until further notice. Rocky and Mrs. Barbra have worked long and hard for the things that they have, and this was the only option that would allow them to keep their personal things that they've had for years. It is not something that Rocky wanted to do, and it upset him to have to tell me. When and if there are any changes, they will be posted here for you. Good luck to you all! Love and best wishes, Linda M. Horn.” Now for dirt track racing in the area it will be Champion Park Speedway or Monticello Speedway. FastTrak Speedway is also running, but is running a very limited schedule. For the fan that enjoys racing, Monroe Speedway is the closest track around with non-stop racing action. Racing is every Saturday night starting at 7pm with the gates opening at 3:30pm.
Opening night turns into battle on track
By Jerry Smith
As the fans poured into the speedway, the kids and Mayor Jamie Mayo started the night off by yelling “Ladies and Gentlemen, start your engines!” The roar of the crowd set the tone for the whole evening. As our Fast Dash Southern Sportmods took the speedway, fans settled in. As they raced off turn four, the drivers wasted no time at all and they went four wide into turn one. #17 Robbie Davis drove hard into turn one and got collected with another competitor. After the complete restart, they settled in and raced side by side. On the last lap, Bill Jenkins took the lead and the win in the Southern Sportmod Fast Dash.
1st #5 Bill Jenkins 2nd #99Mark Underwood Jr. 3rd #17 Robbie Davis 4th #11 Bo Johnson
Our Heat race was packed with side by side racing. With several different lead changes, it finally came down to rookie Jacob Martin winning his first heat race.
1st #13 Jacob Martin 2nd #97 Ritchie Bowden 3rd #99 Mark Underwood 4th #2 Steve Howard 5th #17 Robbie Davis.
Monroe Speedway race fans waved off all the drivers to get the 40 lap feature underway. With Steve Howard wasting no time and took the lead for the first 11 laps until mechanical troubles, Howard showed he has what it takes to run on concrete.You can't miss Howard he is the only driver in the pit area who always is smiling regardless what is going on or off the track. #17 Robbie Davis caught Underwood, making it a great battle. #7 Mike Bee, #5 Bill Jenkins and #13 Jacob Martin chased down 1st and 2nd, then bad luck hit Underwood when his rotor under his distributor broke, causing his car to shut off while he was racing into turn one. Trying to hold off Davis, Underwood moved up the track and accidentally collected
Davis and sent him airborne.
Davis tried everything he could to stay in the race, but he had a tire go down and he had to leave the racing surface. With Underwood, who was on his way to a win, and
Davis gone, this put the #97 Ritchie Bowden and #13 Jacob Martin into a battle to the end. After 40 laps and smooth driving, the #13 Jacob Martin became the first ever
Southern Sportmod feature winner at Monroe Motor Speedway. 16 year old Jacob did an AWESOME burnout in victory lane, giving fans the burnout of the night. Jacob stood in victory lane excited, and thanked his mom and dad for helping him to get into victory lane. Monroe Motor Speedway has found out that Jacob gave his dad half of the winnings. Great job to all of our
Southern Sportmod drivers for a great night of racing. 1st #13 Jacob Martin 2nd #97 Ritchie Bowden 3rd #Wild Bill Jenkins 4th #11 Bo Johnson 5th #7 Mike Bee.
The Bumper 2 Bumper Late Models charged into their Fast Dash with Shreveport’s own #15 Ronnie Humphrey racing some of the best Late Model drivers in the country. Ronnie took the lead and never looked back in winning the Bumper 2 Bumper Late Models’ first Dast dash.
1st #15 Ronnie Humphrey 2nd #46 Nick Glaze. 3rd #J1 Joey Couvillion 4th #00 Don Plunk.
The 8 lap heat race was exciting with three wide racing going into turn one. As they battled off turn two it looked like Monroe’s own Don Pluck was going to take the win, when caution came out for the #46 Nick Glaze when he had an MSD box go out on him. When racing resumed, Humphrey wasted no time jumping into the lead when Plunk got loose coming off turn two Following Humphrey was the J1 of Joey Couvillion, who not only was racing a Bumper 2 Bumper he was pulling double duty driving a Legend car. Couvillion also is a track favorite who brought a big following of dirt fans to Monroe Motor Speedway. Humphrey finally settled in and came off turn four to get his second win of the night. 1st #15 Ronnie Humphreys 2nd #J1 Joey Couvillion 3rd #00 Don Plunk 4th #46 Nick Glaze.
The Bumper 2 Bumper Feature had excitement from start to finish. The drivers wasted no time trying to get to the front, but #00 Don Plunk raced to the lead for several laps, fighting off some hard charging drivers. Couvillion tried to go under Plunk with no avail until Plunk got loose, once again opening the door. As they fought side by side, Plunk and Couvillion got together and spinning sending both to the pits with damage. This left the racing wide open for Humphrey and Glaze to battle it out and it was just that. Humphrey tried every line and everything he could, but Glaze held off Humphrey to be the youngest Late Model winner at this time. Monroe Motor Speedway would like to thank the Glaze family and all of our Late Model drivers for there support and for the long drives they have done to make it to our facility.
1st #46 Nick Glaze 2nd #15 Ronnie Humphreys 3rd #J1 Joey Couvillion 4th #00 Don Plunk.
The INEX Legend cars will be one of the fastest growing divisions at our facility, great racing for young and old. These cars have a 1200 Yamaha sealed motor. Most of your NASCAR stars have raced this series. These cars are fun and inexpensive for the complete family. Local Legend car dealer
Gus Campbell , piloting the #21 car, made his debut this past Saturday night and he did an AWESOME job, but the crowd favorite was 16 year old rookie Jenny Crawford, who pilots the #20 Legend car.
Fast dash winner #4 Bill Beard 2nd #61 Mark Dison 3rd #F5 Joey Couvillion 4th #20 Jenny Crawford.
The heat race started with a wild scramble down the front stretch and #4 Bill Beard racing into the lead off turn two. Couvillion was not letting him go, and started hanging onto Beard’s back bumper. #4 Bill Beard did what it took to win his second race of the night. 2nd Joey Couvillion 3rd #20J Jenny Crawford 4th #64 Mark Dison 5th #21
Gus Campbell . Feature. 1st #4 Bill Beard 2nd #F5 Joey Couvillion 3rd #61 Mike Dison 4th #20J Jenny Crawford 5th #21
Gus Campbell .
The Eskamoe’s frozen treats Bombers put on the best show of the night. Steve Bogues made it a clean sweep of the night being the first driver to set an official record doing so. Congratulations Steve. Jerry Jones along with #62, #5 raced side by side for the complete race and never missing a beat. Lap after Lap, switching back and fourth from position to position, THEY NEVER EVEN SCRATCHED ANY PAINT. Good Job guys. After it was all said and Done the finish was as follows.
1st #19 Steve Bogues 2nd #90, 3rd #62 Jerry Jones 4th # 5 No name on driver time of press release.
We would like to thank all of our competitors for bringing us a great night of racing. We looked forward to a great night of racing this weekend.
Thank You
Monroe Motor
Speedway
Don Punk Jr. to race Bumper 2 Bumper Super Late Models
By Jerry Smith
One of the most well known names in Motorsports in the Louisiana area has bought an ASA Late Model to compete at Monroe Motor Speedway in the Bumper 2 Bumper Super Late Model division. If the name sounds familiar, you may have been towed by Plunks Towing. (THE BIG YELLOW TRUCKS) Don bought a car owned by Bumbera Motorsports out of Houston. Kristin Bumbera is in the NASCAR diversity program and doing well. After checking the car over, Don purchased the winning race car. "I'm excited to get this car and I'm ready to hit the track". Don Plunk Jr. had a big following in the Mud racing series in Louisiana. Monroe Motor Speedway is very excited to have all of the new Bumper 2 Bumper Super Late Model drivers. This class his been growing and growing. We look forward to the heart pounding thunder these cars will give our fans, TO ALL OF OUR BUMPER 2 BUMPER SUPER LATE MODEL DRIVERS, WELCOME TO TO FASTEST 3/8 MILE CONCRETE TRACK IN THE COUNTRY.
Mother's day practice will pay off
By Jerry Smith
Sunday May 11, 2008 will be the final practice until we do some on-track improvements. If enough IMCA Southern Sportmods show up, we will run a dash for cash. All pit addmissions will include free Hamburgers and Hot Dogs with a free Coke. We look forward to getting our racing doors open very soon. Practice will be from 1-6.
Bandos to race full speed ahead on 3/8 mile
By Jerry Smith
After several weeks of testing, Monroe Motor Speedway will allow the bandos to run the full 3/8 mile race track. It will be mandatory to run a restrictor plate. Restrictor plate will be determined over the next few days. The Legend cars and Bandos will follow ALL INEX rules. No exceptions.
Drivers and fans wowed over racing facility
By Jerry Smith It’s been a long road for the hard working construction workers from Breck Construction. Over the past seven months they have been working tirelessly trying to complete this state of the art racing facility. All of their hard work has finally been paying off. Before the pit area even opened Saturday, the drivers and fans peered over the wall to view the 3/8 mile concrete track. It was a great feeling to see the smiles spread across all of their faces. When it finally got down to business, the drivers hit the track with amazing times and speeds. The big surprise of the day was the two Bogues brothers, who made racing their Cruisers/Bombers around the facility look easy. Steve Bogues was one of the fastest race cars of the day. When asked, “What do you think of the race track?” both responded by saying “WOW I love it! This place is very fast and really fun”. Fans were only allowed to be in the pit area for insurance reasons and all were very excited not only to be in the pit area but they had the opportunity to watch the drivers work on their race cars. Monroe Speedway hopes that if the weather cooperates fans may be permitted to watch free from the grand stands next Sunday. Please remember we are nearing the completion stage of the facility. We ask you, our race fans and drivers, to please be understanding with this. Your safety is the most important thing to us. If we can’t allow you in the grandstand area next Sunday please understand this is for your safety. Thank you for your understanding. Our tentative date to open is April 12, weather permitting. We thank you, our race fans and drivers, for your understanding while we build the finest motorsports facility in the country. If you have any questions please call Jerry Smith at318-801-0165, for tech questions please call Bill Avant at 318-366-2350SEASON TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE by calling Stewart Bashner at 318-235-0270.
Practice, Employee and driver registration starts Saturday
It’s time for our drivers to start getting their race cars ready for race day. A test ‘n tune is scheduled for this Saturday March 22, 2008. As long as the weather holds up for us, we will start at 1pm. Any person for any reason who wants to be on Monroe Motor Speedway property must pay the $20 entry fee and sign our waiver. Anyone under the age of 18 must have a parent sign a parental release. There will be nobody allowed on the grandstand side of the facility. There will be no exceptions to entry fees. If you want to watch, you have to sign waiver and pay fee.
TIRES-
Monroe Motor Speedway will not have any tires from Hoosier or Goodyear until next week. If you have a tire that you can run please do so. This day is for you, our drivers, to get used to the facility. We ask if you want to place your tire order please do so with Laura at the pit gate.
Teching- Monroe Motor Speedway will only be checking for safety items this Saturday. You will not be required to go through tech. If you are uncertain about some rules please call Bill Avant. 318-366-2350.
Driver registration- If you need to register your car or have your teams get their registration complete this would be the perfect time to do that at the pit gate with Laura. It is not mandatory to register but recommended. You may not get your number requested.
What cars can practice? Any car that will be racing in our weekly divisions can participate. INCLUDING MODIFIEDS. Any other cars must call to see if you are eligible. 318-801-0165.
Go karts and Bandoleros are welcome-Employees meeting at 11am.This will be for anyone who wants to work on the safety crew or anything operational. For front ticket office or concessions please contact Stewart Bashner at 318-235-0270 for more information.
Jobs that are already taken- Flagman ,Announcer ,Clock person ,2 Score people ,2 pit gate people,Tech Man and Pit Steward .
Volunteers/Paid needed for (All volunteers get family member in and food and drink for volunteers)
Safety truck ,Driver call up person, Announcer assistant,Flagman assistant,Pit gate person,Maintenance Man and parking attendants.
Photographer and Videographer (must have own equipment)
Thank you
Jerry Smith
Monroe Speedway Joins ESPN 97.7 for race talk
By Jerry Smith
Monroe Motor Speedway will join ESPN 97.7 radio out of Ruston for NASCAR and local race talk. On Mondays from 4pm to 4:30 pm and then a full hour of talk on Tuesdays from 6-7. You can also listen on the web by clicking the listen local button at www.espn977.com. We are not only excited to bring news from the worlds fastest 3/8 mile concrete track but also a way for you the race fans a place to talk about Monroe Speedway, NASCAR and your local dirt tracks. Monroe Seedway would like to thank Ed Hebert and the complete ESPN team for this great opportunity. Join us Monday at 4pm and then Tueday at 6pm.
Whats going on at Monroe Speedway?
By Jerry Smith
So many things have been going on at Monroe Motor Speedway at this time. A lot of you have been coming out to the track and talking to us about your excitement. We also are very excited. Lights are up, ticket office is near completion, the concession stand is looking AWESOME, and the suites building is about as perfect as perfect can be. MMS will have one suite available to rent to our race fans or drivers. This can be rented per race event at $1,000. This includes 20 V.I.P passes that will also get you in the pit area. PLUS you get $100 worth of your favorite food. It will not include drinks. Our pit area is looking great for all of our professional drivers. When you pull into our track you will sign in at our state of the art sign in building from BROOKWOOD HOMES. After you sign in you will make a right into the pit area, you will transition onto our chip & seal pit area and pull into you clean (NOT DIRT OR MUDDY) pit stall. All of you with your laser scales or nice scales will have a nice even surface to scale your car on. We are working really hard with Bonner dirt to get our parking area ready for you. Monroe Speedway wants you and your family to have a great time at our facility, so that's why we have added a family section in front of the main tower. We will also be doing give-aways during all racing events. This weekend we plan on getting the track prepped by running tires and we will start painting the walls white and getting our logo and sponsors on it. We will be doing more updates over the next few days so please keep checking back.
Our Proud new Sponsors at Monroe Speedway
By Jerry Smith
Monroe Motor Speedway is very proud to announce that we now have several proud sponsors for the inaugural 2008 season. We ask you, our fans and drivers, to please always remember our sponsors and try to visit them when you need their products or services.
One of the oldest bottling companies in the country will be the official beverage of Monroe Motor Speedway. We would like to welcome Coca Cola.
As we all know racing is the toughest sport in America, so we were very excited to sign the toughest truck in
America . Hixson Ford is the official dealer of Monroe Motor Speedway. We are proud to be built “Ford Tough”.
A local favorite to all surrounding communities for frozen custard, sundaes and concretes is Eskamoe’s in Monroe and
West Monroe . We are very excited for you our fans, not only can you visit both locations, but now you can visit Eskamoe’s at Monroe Motor Speedway. Eskamoe’s will be located right next to the concession stand. They also are a proud sponsor of the Bomber/Cruiser division, the Eskamoe’s Bombers.
MONROE MOTOR
SPEEDWAY WILL ANNOUNCE MORE SPONSORS IN THE NEXT FEW DAYS. PLEASE VISIT THE ABOVE SPONSORS FOR ANY OF YOUR NEEDS.
Monroe Speedway Moving forward to opening day
By Jerry Smith
After a long time waiting, the countdown to open the doors at Monroe Motor Speedway has begun. The biggest issue for all of us has been dealing with rain. Breck Construction has been working non stop and we all hope the weather holds up so we can make our opening day. A lot of rumors about Monroe Motor Speedway have been surfacing and it’s now time to put all those rumors to rest.
#1 No you will not pay $50 a week to get into the pits. For members it’s $20 a week, non members will be $25. Membership will be $10 a year.
#2 There is no dress code to get into the pits. The rumor of everyone has to wear the same thing is just ridiculous. We would like to see all of our professional teams wearing team shirts but it’s not necessary. It’s always in your best interest as a car owner or driver to look your best.
#3 TIRES-The Hoosier #500 was tested on an IMCA
Southern Sportmod . The results are not to Monroe Motor Speedway expectations so we are now testing the Hoosier #890 and it is a proven tire.
#4 Monroe Motor Speedway has made it our goal to make everything at our facility affordable. We believe we have succeeded. We have the prices on our website under the fans button, click on tickets. But for adults it will be a $10 general admission.
#5 as most tracks around the country here is no age limit to enter the pits. Anyone under the age of 18 must have a parent sign our waiver.
We ask all of our fans and drivers if you have any concerns or suggestions to please contact us. We will do what it takes to help you better understand any questions you have.
Thank You
Jerry Smith
Speedway racing toward readiness
By Robbie Evans
revans@thenewsstar.com
Monroe Motor Speedway may be open in little more than two months.
Most major infrastructure work on the $6.2 million speedway is completed, which could pave the way for racing to begin at the track in early April, according to Stu Bashner, managing partner of an ownership group that includes about 20 investors."Progress has been terrific," Bashner said. "Everything's been moving along right on as scheduled."
The speedway on 55 acres fronting Wagon Wheel Road just off I-20 east of Garrett Road will feature a three-eighths-mile oval surrounding a figure-8 course. The concrete track is in place, as are the grandstands. Construction is being done on suites, concession buildings and fencing, Bashner said.
"We're also going to do some soil stabilization for the parking area," Bashner said. "We're now going to start beautification and make it look fan friendly."A scoreboard will be erected within a month, and lighting around the track is scheduled to be built next week, Bashner said.The speedway has a Web site: www.monroemotorspeedway.com. Bashner said progress photos, scheduling and aspects are updated online as work progresses.
"It's something that will be very exciting for our region," said Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo. "It's going to be good regionally because it will bring people from throughout not only the region but southern Arkansas, western Mississippi and Shreveport. That helps us on sales taxes because those people are going to be going to our restaurants and shopping here. It's a sign of progress."
Courtesy: thenewsstar.com
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By Jerry Smith 12/13/07
Goodyear is the Official Tire of Monroe Motor Speedway
Monroe Motor Speedway is very proud to announce that Goodyear will be the official tire of Monroe Motor Speedway. It has been our goal since the start of the building of each class to keep racing affordable. With the addition of Goodyear we can make this possible. The Budweiser Late Models will run the D-2678 & D-2477 the cost of this tire will be $110.00 each. This tire will last twice as long as the competitors tire.
IMCA Southern SportMod-
This class will run the Hoosier #500. This tire will be tested by Hoosier at our track.
Bombers/Cruisers-
This class will be allowed to run the Hoosier pull offs that your track allows. BUT IF YOU RUN THE GOODYEAR D-2663 & D-2462 & YOU WIN THE FEATURE YOU WILL GET AN EXTRA $25.00 IN YOUR WINNINGS. The cost of these tires will be $100.00 each and you will be able to run at least a half season on them. Unless you cut a tire.
Driver’s if you have any questions or need to order tires please call me. If you want to speak about the Hoosier #500 please hold off until after testing.
318-801-0165
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By Jerry Smith 10/1/07
The walls go up!
Construction crews set up machines today to start pouring the concrete walls around the south’s fastest short track. Friday Nov 2, 2007 at 7:30 am the machines will be fired up and local concrete trucks will be lined up to start pouring the walls. Stewart Bashner who has waited 21 years to see his dream come true will be on hand to watch the pour finally happen. The project for the walls should be completed sometime on Saturday. Monroe Motor Speedway should have pictures up sometime this weekend.
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Late Model driver meeting
By Jerry Smith
Monroe Motor Speedway has received a lot of calls about the ASA Late Model division. We would like to set up a meeting with everyone who is interested in this division. I want some feedback on what weekend day would be best. Please let me know your thoughts. The topics of the meting will be Tires, Purse, radio, and safety. Different style Late Models or classes will not be discussed. I look forward to hearing from you guys.
Jerry Smith
318-801-0165
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Legend cars added to 2008 Schedule
By Jerry Smith
We asked all of you to respond to us about running Legend cars during our 2008-racing season. And WOW did you racers ever. The Legend cars will run every Saturday night as a full time racing division. We will be following 600 racing rules. If you ran part time at another track in 07 and they allowed you to make small changes, then put it back to 600 racing rules. Our tech officials will be looking at carburetors before you even get on the track. Plus we have several different surprises for the cheaters who think they will get away with cheating. Mainly 600 racing puts you in the cheaters section of their monthly letter; we are going to put you in the weekly program. No Exceptions for any reason. We are working on a Purse and will announce it over the next couple of weeks. Any questions please don’t hesitate to ask us. Again Legend cars welcome to Monroe Motor Speedway.
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Legend cars at Monroe Motor Speedway
We have had interest in bringing the Legend cars to MMS along with several other series. Please send me an email if you are interested in the legend cars or any family of race cars through 600 racing. Please do not send me an email about being sanctioned by 600 racing. When there is interest from racers I will contact 600 racing.
Thank You

Jerry Smith
318-801-0165
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DRIVERS MEETING
There will be a drivers meeting Thursday October 11, 2007 at 6:00 pm at Monroe Motor Speedway. This will be for all divisions.
If you have any questions, please contact Jerry Smith 318.801.0165 or jerry@monroemotorspeedway.com
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Legend cars added to 2008 Schedule
By Jerry Smith
We asked all of you to respond to us about running Legend cars during our 2008-racing season. And WOW did you racers ever. The Legend cars will run every Saturday night as a full time racing division. We will be following 600 racing rules. If you ran part time at another track in 07 and they allowed you to make small changes, then put it back to 600 racing rules. Our tech officials will be looking at carburetors before you even get on the track. Plus we have several different surprises for the cheaters who think they will get away with cheating. Mainly 600 racing puts you in the cheaters section of their monthly letter; we are going to put you in the weekly program. No Exceptions for any reason. We are working on a Purse and will announce it over the next couple of weeks. Any questions please don’t hesitate to ask us. Again Legend cars welcome to Monroe Motor Speedway
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Attention drivers! Contest starts today!
Monroe Motor Speedway will be starting a contest today. We are looking for 5 AWESOME looking race cars to put on the back of our first run of t-shirts. This will be the 2008 Inaugural T-shirt that will be sold online and at the race track. The shirt looks AWESOME already, with the great design work from Newcomer, Morris & Young. The contest will be as follows: we will need a picture of a Compact car, Bomber car, Figure8 car, Southern SportMod and an ASA Late Model. All of these cars will be running next year. We will pick the final pictures and have you, the fans and drivers, decide on the cars for the back of the shirt. Good Luck to everyone. All pictures must be in by October 1, 2007.
Send your picture to Jerry@monroemotorspeedway.com
Thank You
Jerry Smith
Monroe Motor Speedway
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Southern Sportmod drivers please read
By Jerry Smith
With the high cost of racing attacking car counts and having new drivers looking for a way to run a Modified, we are proud to be involved with the fastest growing series in the country. The IMCA Southern Sportmod has become one of the finest racing divisions. Now with IMCA working with Monroe Motor Speedway, we have another reason to be proud being partners with IMCA. Parents please read the new age rule being implemented by IMCA. As you know, your kids are the future of auto racing and a big stepping stone to his or her way into the NASCAR ranks. If you are interested, please contact me ASAP so we can discuss Monroe Motor Speedway procedures to this new rule change for the 2008 season. If you are 14 years of age or older and run the Young Guns division, please keep your stats and start building your resume to be submitted to IMCA. We look forward to hearing from you.
Thank You,
Jerry Smith
Monroe Motor Speedway
318-801-0165
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Kids, Karting and Compacts to be growth of racing
8/25/07
By Jerry Smith
With several options for our kids, Monroe Motor Speedway has two ways for your kids to start their racing careers. Karting is the perfect way for you as parents to start your kids in the right direction. From age 3 and up we will have a Karting division for you. Karting will be 100% a family environment. All kids that race will receive a trophy. A simple points system will be put in place. Each division will have a champion. All Karting nights will be Wednesday nights. We know school is very important and will have practices leading up to the start of the season when school ends.
The compact class will be the perfect place for you as parents to find out if your child has what it takes to be a racer. This is a perfect learning class. Your child must be twelve years of age or older. A recommended car would be a Chevrolet Corsica or Berretta. Moms and Dads you CAN’T do any modifications to this car. Let your kids learn. The compact class is for anyone trying to learn how to race and for drivers who can’t afford to run in any other classes.
Both of these divisions are intended for you and everyone else to learn and have fun. MMS officials will not tolerate vulgar language or intimidation towards other drivers. If you want to drive cars where you can adjust suspensions or run racing parts on your car then move up into another division.
For more information please contact Jerry Smith@318-801-0165 or
www.monroe-speedway.com
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Trucks and vans will be in Figure 8 class
Monroe Motor Speedway has received several calls from drivers who want to know if a pick up truck can run in the Figure 8 class. The answer is YES. You can run an S-10, Ranger or small Dodge Ram. You can also run any type of mini van. You are not allowed to do any modifications to the trucks. All vehicles can be lowered, but not any lower then a 6 inch frame height. If you are using a mini van, you must follow the same rules. This will be a paying class and purse will be determined by how many cars start the feature. 20 or more cars start the feature, it will be $200 to win. If you run the Bomber class and want to run in Figure 8 class, you must purchase two separate licenses.
For more information please contact Jerry Smith @ 318-801-0165
or visit us at www.monroespeedway.com
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ASA Late Models will run in 2008
By Jerry Smith 8/20/07
The 2008 racing season is fast approaching us, so ASA Late Model drivers, lets get your cars ready. After talking to several drivers, car owners, and potential drivers, it is 100% in the best interest of everyone involved that Monroe Motor Speedway run the ASA Late Models rules. Over the years, the cost of building and maintaining any type of Late Model has just got out of hand. Race track owners all over the country are struggling to get a decent car count, but they still are paying high purses. Nobody can afford a $50,000 Late Model anymore. This makes us all proud at MMS that we will be helping bring the cost down and bring the most competitive Late Models in the country to our facility. If you are a driver looking to move up into any NASCAR racing series, this will be your perfect opportunity to show what you have. Many drivers have moved up the ranks from the ASA Late Models and many call the ASA Late Model Series their home. Ron Varney and his staff have worked hard over the years to perfect a series that would be affordable and competitive and he has with the ASA Late Models. We will have further information soon on a scheduled sanctioned event at our facility. We will also provide you with other tracks around us that will be running sanctioned events. For more information please contact Jerry Smith at 318-801-0165 or visit us at: www.monroe-speedway.com
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Monroe Speedway Drivers Meeting this Sunday
With heavy construction going on at Monroe Motor Speedway it is time that we meet our future drivers. This will be time for you as a driver to talk about what you have been concerned about with local racing in the Louisiana area. If you’re a parent thinking about getting your kids started in racing, or just a driver wanting to know if your race car will be legal for our race track then join us this Sunday August 5, 2007 at 4pm. Also we will be taking questions on our new Late Model division/series. Monroe Motor Speedway will be a 3/8 mile Asphalt with 13 degree banking in the corners. You will rocket off the corners down our long straight a ways. If it rains on Sunday the meeting will be moved to Bennigans restaurant in West Monroe at 224 Blanchard st.
Divisions-
Compacts- FWD 4 or 6 Cylinders (Trophy Class)
Bombers- RWD Stock 8 Cylinders (Pay Class)
Figure 8- RWD 8 Cylinder (Pay Class)
Late Model/Sportsman- This will be a Crate Motor only… 400hp. (Pay Class)
IMCA Southern Sportmod- (Pay Class)
For more info please contact
Jerry Smith @ 318-801-0165 or visit our web site at
www.monroemotorspeedway.com
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Monroe Speedway Releases 2008 Classes & Rules Media Release
After 20 years of waiting and being the talk of the town, Stewart Bashner and a group of local investors are finally seeing the construction of their state-of-the-art stock car racing facility in Monroe, Louisiana being built. Monroe Speedway would like to welcome our new operations manager Jerry Smith to our racing family. Smith helped bring the NASCAR Truck Series to Ohio. Along with having a great resume for weekly racing, he is just the guy we have been looking for. Our complete team has now finished building our divisions and all of the rules have been completed. The 3/8 mile asphalt track will have 13 degree banking in the corners that will make this one of the fastest short tracks in the country. All of our divisions will be the way racing should be, inexpensive without taking away the fun.
Our compact class will be a low budget class that will help families get into racing for the first time. This is a great beginner’s class. Front wheel drive 4 or 6 cylinder, take the glass out, leave the windshield in, take seats out and go racing. Top 5 will get a trophy.
The Bomber class is about the same rules as above. This will be a rear wheel drive class (EXAMPLE: 1977 Monte Carlo), take the glass out and go racing. This will be a paying class.
The Figure 8 class will be the best class of all. This will be a bombers car with a little extra to it. The drivers will run dash and heats on oval but run the feature on the Figure 8. This class will teach you a lot about racing in a short amount of time. The track will be watered down so dirt drivers may have an advantage. This will be a paying class. Yes, you can run your bomber car in the figure 8 class!
Louisiana Crate Late Models will be the first of their kind. This will be a template style late model and it will be very fast on our 3/8 mile track. Our fans must relate to your car. The engine rule is set in stone and it will be a 400hp Crate motor.
Finally, we are proud to announce that we will be a sanctioned IMCA Southern Sportmod track. This is one of the most competitive racing series in the country and we are proud to be a part of IMCA family. We will also follow the IMCA purse structure for this area.
For rules on these classes and any information you may need, please visit our website @ www.monroe-speedway.com or contact
Jerry Smith- 318-801-0165
Stu Bashner-318-235-0270
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Tract Contact: Stu Bashner
Phone: 318-699-0234
Email: SBash77918@aol.com
Web: www.monroemotorspeedway.com
PR Agency: Paula Burgess, Newcomer, Morris, and Young, Inc.
Phone: 318-325-1544
Email: paula@nmy.com
April 9, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONSTRUCTION TO START ON LOCAL SPEEDWAY
Groundbreaking for the long awaited Monroe Motor Speedway will be Wednesday, April 18, 2007, at 2:30PM on the speedway property facing Wagon Wheel Road along the Interstate 20 frontage road, east of Garrett Road.
"It's a dream that took more than 20 years," stated Stu Bashner, managing partner of an ownership group that includes about 20 investors. "Racing fans in northern Louisiana will no longer have to drive six or more hours to see top quality racing," Bashner added. "Instead of making the trip to Birmingham (Ala.) or Memphis, they will soon be able to see some of the sport's most promising young drivers compete right here in Monroe."
The Monroe Motor Speedway, to be called Monroe Speedway, will feature a threeeighths mile oval track surrounding a figure-eight course. A grandstand alongside will seat up to 4,000 fans. The speedway complex, which will be ready for racing in January 2008, will be built on 55 acres adjacent to the I-20 frontage road.
Breck Construction of Monroe will build the complex. “I think January, 2008, is a realistic date for completion," said John Schween, president of Breck Construction and an investor in the speedway. Paxton Waters, who has designed tracks such as the California Speedway and Las Vegas Speedway, will be the architect for this project.
BizCapital of New Orleans will finance the $6.2 million project, which is also backed by a U.S.Agriculture Department loan guarantee of 70 percent. John M. Brocato of BizCapital believes that the race track "will have a significant economic impact on
Monroe and the surrounding communities in the form of jobs, tourism dollars and increased tax revenue.â€ï¿½
BizCapital will use the federal New Market Tax Credit program that provides lucrative tax incentives to lenders that finance projects in specific Census tracts.
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Sports
Jan. 4, 2007, 1:33PM
Financing approved for Ouachita speedway
Associated Press
MONROE, La. - A corporation that provides government-guaranteed loans to businesses will finance a $6.2 million motor speedway for Ouachita Parish. Construction could begin in three months. BizCapital President John M. Brocato confirmed on Wednesday that the company will finance the project, which is also backed by a United State Agriculture Department loan guarantee of 70 percent.
The Monroe Motor Speedway, which will feature a three-eighths mile oval surrounding a figureeight course, will be built on 55 acres just off of Interstate 20.
"It's a dream that took more than 20 years," said Stu Bashner, managing partner of an ownership group that includes about 20 investors. "I'm excited and relieved at the same time." Bashner said the speedway complex, which will include a grandstand that can seat up to 4,000 fans, will be ready for racing in January 2008.
It will have total seating for 5,000 fans.
Bashner and other investors bought the track site more than three years ago, but weren't able to secure financing until the USDA approved the loan guarantee about four months ago.
BizCapital of New Orleans will use the federal New Market Tax Credit program, which provides tax incentives to lenders that finance projects in specific Census tracts, to finance the deaL. The company said that it has made more than $100 million in loans since 1999.
Bashner said other events such as concerts will also be common at the speedway. "We're going to try to schedule a concert right away," Bashner said. "We're going to have entertainment that all of the family can enjoy."
Brocato of BizCapital believes that the race track "will have a significant economic impact on Monroe and the surrounding communities in the form of jobs, tourism dollars and increased tax revenue. Economic data and regional demographics show that Monroe provides an exceptionally favorable environment for auto racing."
Information from: The News-Star, http://www.thenewsstar.com
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Monroe Motor Speedway Closes on Financing, Begins Planning Construction
Set to Open in January 2008, the Race Track Wil Bring Jobs, Attention and Entertinment Dollars to Monroe
MONROE, La., Jan. 3 -- Auto racing, one of the countr's fastest growing and most popular sports, will soon have a home in northern Louisiana thanks to the persistence and vision of racing enthusiast and local businessman Stewart Bashner. With the closing today ofa $4.5 million investment from BizCapital in New Orleans, construction wil begin this month as scheduled -- with the first races planned for early 2008.
The Monroe Motor Speedway, the region's first paved auto racing facility, is designed to be a complete motorsports and entertainment destination for fans of all ages. Located on 55 acres in the Ouachita Parish, the speedway wil feature a .375 mile paved oval short track and will accommodate up to 5,000 fans. The speedway will feature 45 weekends of racing a year and serve as a venue for a variety of events, including concerts and open-air markets.
"Racing fans in northern Louisiana will no longer have to drive six or more hours to see top quality racing," Bashner said. "Instead of making the trip to Talladega or Memphis, they will soon be able to see some of the sport's most promising young drivers compete right here in Monroe. Once this speedway is complete, we have no doubt we wil achieve our goal of becoming a NASCAR-sanctioned track."
In addition to offering best-in-class short track racing, the Monroe Motor Speedway wil include family frendly amenities such as a super-sized playground, an ice-cream parlor and a large game room. Alcohol and tobacco wil be prohibited in certain areas of the grandstands, ensurng a clean and safe environment where the entire family can enjoy the racing events.
"This new race track will have a significant economic impact on Monroe and the surounding communities in the form of jobs, toursm dollars and increased ta revenue," said John M. Brocato, president of BizCapital. "Economic data and regional demographics show that Monroe provides an exceptionally favorable environment for auto racing. Despite a population of 4 million people, Louisiana is underserved by auto racing facilities. The new speedway wil provide a much-needed form of family entertinment and make Monroe a destination for thousands
of racing fans in the Tri-state area."
BizCapital is providing financing for the new speedway through a small business lending fund established to provide financing for entrepreneurs in communities that qualify under the U.S. Treasur's New Markets Tax Credits Program. BizCapital's parent firm, Advantage Capital Partners of New Orleans, already has raised more than $100 milion through the New Markets program. To qualify for investment from the fund, a company must fit the SBA definition of a small business for its particular industr and be located within a low- income census tract. Loans can range from $250,000 to $2 million for capital to build, rebuild or expand operations and facilities.
In addition to the financing from BizCapital, the speedway will receive funding through an equity investment by Bashner and other owner/parters. The total cost of the speedway is estimated at $6.2 million.
The speedway will be managed and marketed by a board of directors and management team that is highly skilled and experienced in all areas of the motorsports and entertinment
businesses. In addition to Bashner, who wil act as general manager, key consultants on the project include Don Naman, former director of the International Motorsports Hall of Fame; Andy
Vertrees, CEO of the Iowa Speedway; Johnny Parsons Jr., retired Indy car driver and curent media analyst; Bobby Allison, retired NASCAR driver and auto racing legend; Doyle Ford, retired flagman for NASCAR's Winston Cup Series (now known as the Nextel Cup); Herb Adcox, racing enthusiast; and Paxton Waters, designer of the California Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Iowa Speedway, Naperville Test Track and others.
About BizCapital and Advantage Capital Partners
BizCapital ( htt://www.biz-capital.coml) is a non-depository financial institution offering competitive loans to small and medium-sized companies. Since its inception in 1999, BizCapital has made more than $100 million in loans to businesses in a variety of industres, helping to stimulate business growth and economic activity.
BizCapital's parent firm is Advantage Capital Parners ( http://www.advantagecap.coml). a venture capital and private equity firm focused on investing in promising companies located in areas underserved by traditional venture capitaL. With offces and parers in New Orleans, St. Louis and several other cities, Advantage Capital has raised more than $750 million in institutional venture capital since 1992.
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Monroe Motor Speedway Closes on Financing, Begins Planning Construction - Auto News from January 3, 2007
MONROE, La., Jan. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Auto racing, one of the country's fastest growing and most popular sports, will soon have a home in northern Louisiana thanks to the persistence and vision of racing enthusiast and local businessman Stewart Bashner. With the closing today of a $4.5 million investment from BizCapital in New Orleans, construction will begin this month as scheduled -- with the first races planned for early 2008.
The Monroe Motor Speedway, the region's first paved auto racing facility, is designed to be a complete motorsports and entertainment destination for fans of all ages. Located on 55 acres in the Ouachita Parish, the speedway will feature a .375 mile paved oval short track and will accommodate up to 5,000 fans. The speedway will feature 45 weekends of racing a year and serve as a venue for a variety of events, including concerts and open-air markets.
"Racing fans in northern Louisiana will no longer have to drive six or more hours to see top quality racing," Bashner said. "Instead of making the trip to Talladega or Memphis, they will soon be able to see some of the sport's most promising young drivers compete right here in Monroe. Once this speedway is complete, we have no doubt we will achieve our goal of becoming a NASCAR-sanctioned track.
"In addition to offering best-in-c1ass short track racing, the Monroe Motor Speedway will include family friendly amenities such as a super-sized playground, an ice-cream parlor and a large game room. Alcohol and tobacco will be prohibited in certain areas of the grandstands, ensuring a clean and safe environment where the entire family can enjoy the racing events.
"This new race track will have a significant economic impact on Monroe and the surrounding communities in the form of jobs, tourism dollars and increased tax revenue," said John M. Brocato, president of BizCapital. "Economic data and regional demographics show that Monroe provides an exceptionally favorable environment for auto racing. Despite a population of 4 million people, Louisiana is underserved by auto racing facilities. The new speedway will provide a much needed form of family entertainment and make Monroe a destination for thousands of racing fans in the Tri-state area."
BizCapital is providing financing for the new speedway through a small business lending fund established to provide financing for entrepreneurs in communities that qualify under the U.S. Treasury's New Markets Tax Credits Program. BizCapital's parent firm, Advantage Capital Partners of New Orleans, already has raised more than $100 million through the New Markets program. To qualify for investment from the fund, a company must fit the SBA definition of a small business for its particular industry and be located within a low- income census tract. Loans can range from $250,000 to $2
million for capital to build, rebuild or expand operations and facilities.
In addition to the financing from BizCapital, the speedway will receive funding through an equity investment by Bashner and other owner/partners. The total cost of the speedway is estimated at $6.2 million. The speedway will be managed and marketed by a board of directors and management team that is highly skilled and experienced in all areas of the motorsports and entertainment businesses. In addition to Bashner, who will act as general manager, key consultants on the project include Don Naman, former director of the International Motorsports Hall of Fame; Andy Vertrees, CEO of the Iowa Speedway; Johnny Parsons Jr., retired Indy car driver and current media analyst;
Bobby Allison, retired NASCAR driver and auto racing legend; Doyle Ford, retired flagman for NASCAR's Winston Cup Series (now known as the Nextel Cup); Herb Adcox, racing enthusiast; and Paxton Waters, designer of the California Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Iowa Speedway, Naperville Test Track and others.
About BizCapital and Advantage Capital Partners
BizCapital ( http://www.biz-capital.com ) is a non-depository financial institution offering competitive loans to small and medium-sized companies. Since its inception in 1999, BizCapital has made more than $100 million in loans to businesses in a variety of industries, helping to stimulate business growth and economic activity.
BizCapital's parent firm is Advantage Capital Partners ( http://www.advantagecap.com ), a venture capital and private equity firm focused on investing in promising companies located in areas underserved by traditional venture capitaL. With offces and partners in New Orleans, St. Louis and several other cities, Advantage Capital has raised more than $750 million in institutional venture capital since 1992.
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Monroe Motor Speedway Closes on Financing, Begins Planning Construction
Set to Open in January 2008, the Race Track Will Bring Jobs, Attention and Entertainment Dollars to Monroe
MONROE, La., Jan. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Auto racing, one of the country's fastest growing and most popular sports, will soon have a home in northern Louisiana thanks to the persistence and vision of racing enthusiast and local businessman Stewart Bashner. With the closing today of a $4.5 million investment from BizCapital in New Orleans, construction will begin this month as scheduled -- with the first races planned for early 2008.
The Monroe Motor Speedway, the region's first paved auto racing facility, is designed to be a complete motorsports and entertainment destination for fans of all ages. Located on 55 acres in the Ouachita Parish, the speedway will feature a .375 mile paved oval short track and will accommodate up to 5,000 fans. The speedway will feature 45 weekends of racing a year and serve as a venue for a variety of events, including concerts and open-air markets.
"Racing fans in northern Louisiana will no longer have to drive six or more hours to see top quality racing," Bashner said. "Instead of making the trip to Talladega or Memphis, they will soon be able to see some of the sport's most promising young drivers compete right here in Monroe. Once this speedway is complete, we have no doubt we will achieve our goal of becoming a NASCAR-sanctioned track."
In addition to offering best-in-class short track racing, the Monroe Motor Speedway will include family friendly amenities such as a super-sized playground, an ice-cream parlor and a large game room. Alcohol and tobacco will be prohibited in certain areas of the grandstands, ensuring a clean and safe environment where the entire family can enjoy the racing events.
"This new race track will have a significant economic impact on Monroe and the surrounding communities in the form of jobs, tourism dollars and increased tax revenue," said John M. Brocato, president of BizCapital. "Economic data and regional demographics show that Monroe provides an exceptionally favorable environment for auto racing. Despite a population of 4 million people, Louisiana is underserved by auto racing facilities. The new speedway will provide a much-needed form of family entertainment and make Monroe a destination for thousands of racing fans in the Tri-state area."
BizCapital is providing financing for the new speedway through a small business lending fund established to provide financing for entrepreneurs in communities that qualify under the U.S. Treasury's New Markets Tax Credits Program. BizCapital's parent firm, Advantage Capital Partners of New Orleans, already has raised more than $100 million through the New Markets program. To qualify for investment from the fund, a company must fit the SBA definition of a small business for its particular industry and be located within a low- income census tract. Loans can range from $250,000 to $2 million for capital to build, rebuild or expand operations and facilities.
In addition to the financing from BizCapital, the speedway will receive funding through an equity investment by Bashner and other owner/partners. The total cost of the speedway is estimated at $6.2 million.
The speedway will be managed and marketed by a board of directors and management team that is highly skilled and experienced in all areas of the motorsports and entertainment businesses. In addition to Bashner, who will act as general manager, key consultants on the project include Don Naman, former director of the International Motorsports Hall of Fame; Andy Vertrees, CEO of the Iowa Speedway; Johnny Parsons Jr., retired Indy car driver and current media analyst; Bobby Allison, retired NASCAR driver and auto racing legend; Doyle Ford, retired flagman for NASCAR's Winston Cup Series (now known as the Nextel Cup); Herb Adcox, racing enthusiast; and Paxton Waters, designer of the California Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Iowa Speedway, Naperville Test Track and others.
About BizCapital and Advantage Capital Partners
BizCapital ( http://www.biz-capital.com ) is a non-depository financial institution offering competitive loans to small and medium-sized companies. Since its inception in 1999, BizCapital has made more than $100 million in loans to businesses in a variety of industries, helping to stimulate business growth and economic activity.
BizCapital's parent firm is Advantage Capital Partners ( http://www.advantagecap.com ), a venture capital and private equity firm focused on investing in promising companies located in areas underserved by traditional venture capital. With offices and partners in New Orleans, St. Louis and several other cities, Advantage Capital has raised more than $750 million in institutional venture capital since 1992.
Web site: http://www.biz-capital.com/ http://www.advantagecap.com/
© 2007 PR Newswire. All Rights Reserved.
Disclaimer: Information contained on this page is provided by companies featured through PR Newswire. PR Newswire, WorldNow and this Station cannot confirm the accuracy of this information and make no warranties or representations in connection therewith.
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