May 12, 2008 06:04 am
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Anybody that knows me knows if I have a problem with something, I'm going to let you know.
Such was the case last September when I brought the readers quite a critical review, or tirade, of Port Royal Speedway and its antics regarding the press at times, this instance in the form of yanking the Internet e-mail phone jack that I needed to file my race story with seconds to spare.
I will also be the first to commend and compliment when the situation is made right.
Such was the case Saturday night when I strolled to Port for the first time this season to cover the All Star Bob Weikert Memorial.
Imagine my delight when upon entering the press box I found a two-port phone jack installed properly and adequately, directly in the center of the front windows, easily accessible at the table. Instead of frazzled wires with a jack or without one, depending on who felt like invading the area last season, the line and jack was nicely fastened and placed for use Saturday.
Now I have to admit, I did my fair share of calling and following up on having the situation rectified over the past few months and especially the last 10 days. But the point is, the issue was resolved.
Look, neither I nor any other media members I work with at the tracks want to be treated royally.
I don't care if the space is cramped, if the chairs are old and rusty, if the work surfaces are crusty dirty or if the windows are as dirty as sin, and usually at least two or more of these apply on a weekly basis.
As long as I can do the job, cover the races and get the story to the readers and fans without having to overcome insurmountable odds unnecessarily placed in my way, I'm happy.
Thank you, Port Royal Speedway.
MARK'S WIN: After Williams Grove rained out Friday night, Mark Smith decided to go west, to Sarver's Lernerville Speedway and compete. Smith waxed the field for a $1,300 payday. After subtracting his fuel bill to get there and the cost of tires to compete, he might have broken even. But, a win's a win.
WEIKERT MEMORIAL ALL STARS: Jeff Shepard claimed the sixth annual Bob Weikert Memorial sanctioned by the All Star Sprints at Port Royal on Saturday. The Jet led all 30 laps to win over All Star Lance Dewease. The All Stars brought 10 invaders and, while they timed in well, some struggled in the main despite their stout caravan this season. Dale Blaney was lined up fourth and withdrew at the start with power steering woes. Paul McMahan, the fast timer, started fifth and was running sixth when he pulled pitside halfway through. Greg Wilson lost a front wing while inside the top 10.
DARRAH DELIVERS: At the ripe age of 17, Cody Darrah, of Red Lion, won not only his first but also his second career 410 sprint mains at Lincoln Speedway on Saturday. Darrah ran off with the April 26 make-up and then the regular main. Darrah, whose mom, Candy, is one of the famed racing Eckerts, quipped about his run after the first win. "A monkey could be sitting in this (car), a monkey IS sitting in this...this thing is flying around this place."
Kevin Nouse won the 358 sprints.
AT SELINSGROVE: Dave Calaman become the first repeat 358 sprint winner of the season Saturday as was Shepard at Port Royal in 410s. Jason Smith won the pro stock 20, Tony Adams took late models and Ray Rothfuss won roadrunners.
BIG WEEK AHEAD: Selinsgrove has the always exciting Jack Gunn Memorial 358/URC 360 sprint challenge this Saturday.
Williams Grove Speedway has the area's first appearance by the World of Outlaws on Thursday and Friday with full programs both days. Clinton County does not have sprints Friday, instead headlining with super late models.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: A little boy is walking out of Port Royal with his father Saturday night. Dad says, "What did you think of the races, son?" To which the son exclaimed, "They were cool dad."
n Shawn Brouse, of Beavertown, writes a weekly motorsports column for The Daily Item. E-mail comments to sports@dailyitem.com.
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