From Larry Boos
Rossburg, OH (Jan. 26) – Going into Eldora Speedway’s recent (January 23) Awards Celebration, the championship honors for each division had been documented and were common knowledge; however, the annual specialty awards remained anonymous until announced before the packed Eldora Ballroom audience.
Track owner, and two-time NASCAR Cup champion, Tony Stewart was on hand to celebrate the championship titles earned by Chad Ruhlman (Late Models), Jason Wheatley (Modified) and Mike Dirksen (Stock Car), and distributed the unique awards as they were revealed.
Considered to be the most prestigious honor bestowed upon an Eldora Speedway enthusiast, the annual Sportsman of the Year award was presented to long-time car owner Mike Lawrence.
Capturing the Rookie of the Year honors were Jon Henry (Late Model), Brian Post (Modified) and Kyle Brandewie (Stock Car), while Ryan VanderVeen (Late Model), Jeff Babcock (Modified) and Jason Kinney were honored as the Most Improved Drivers.
Recognized for their Hard Luck throughout the year were Scott James (Late Model), Mike Chrisman (Modified) and Jamie Heiser (Stock Car), with the Best Appearing Car & Crew awards being distributed to Jeep VanWormer (Late Model), Scott Orr (Modified) and Jeff Koz (Stock Car).
Mary Lou McGinnis was recognized as the Fan of the Year, while Jennifer Halcomb graciously accepted the Woman of the Year plaque. Accepting the Mechanic of the Year was Junior Nolan for his efforts in producing a consistently top notch Modified ride for Jacob Hawkins. The Car Owner of the Year accolades were presented to Al Woodard.
Eldora’s Larry Kemp announced that the track will swing open with a tune-and-test session on Saturday, March 27, followed by a USAC Sprint Car doubleheader weekend – April 2 & 3. He advised the complete schedule has been posted on the track’s website – www.eldoraspeedway.com.