Grandview Speedway preview 2001-09-15

BECHTELSVILLE, PA September 13 . . . The tragedies of New York, Washington and Western Pennsylvania live in everyone's memory. The memories will live forever in our minds. Let us not allow these terrorists to control our lives. Life goes on!!

In an effort to show support for so many wonderful people doing so many wonderful things, the police, the firefighters, the rescue workers, and our government leaders. Management of Grandview Speedway is asking that everyone show their support by wearing our country's colors (red, white and blue).

The one-third-mile, clay banked oval, owned and operated by the Rogers Family, will present a doubleheader show of United Racing Club sprint cars and Modified stock car racing on Saturday, September 15. The green flag will be dropped at 7 p.m.

"We have given a great deal of thought as to what was right to do regarding the Saturday night show," said event organizer Bruce Rogers.

"We think that people need something to take their minds off this terrible tragedy, if only for a few hours. To show our support for all of the heroes of this tragedy and to show support and faith in our government, we are suggesting that fans and racers wear the colors (red, white and blue) and carry the flag. It is an opportunity for all of us to show that we are proud to be Americans. We will also have a period of remembrance to honor those whose lives were lost."

The Bars Leaks United Racing Club sprint cars will headline the Saturday night show. Recent URC races have attracted more than 35 sprint cars and it is expected that at least that many will be on hand for the Saturday night show.

Point leader Chris Coyle, leading by just a narrow margin, will continue his chase for his first URC sprint championship. Mike Haggenbottom is second in the chase while Bill Brian holds down third spot.

The Modified stock car portion of the show is expected to attract some visitors, those who do not regularly run at the Berks County oval, as several area tracks have closed for the season. Heading up the action on Saturday will be new track champion Craig VonDohren along with former track champion Jeff Strunk, Kerry Kratz, Doug Manmiller, Tom Mayberry and a host of others.

"We would like to see people come out and enjoy the night of sprint and stock car racing. Perhaps it will take their minds off the problems here in the United States for a few hours. And we hope it will give people a chance to meet, talk, share thoughts, and remember that we still live in the greatest country in the world. Wearing the colors (red, white and blue) is up to each individual, we are just suggesting," said track announcer and public relations person Ernie Saxton.

The regular season finale is set for Saturday, September 22, 5 p.m., will feature the modifieds, late models and sportsman stock cars.

Grandview Speedway is located on Passmore Road, just off Route 100, in Bechtelsville, PA, 10 miles north of Pottstown. For information telephone 610.754.7688 or visit their website at www.grandviewspeedway.com.

-GS