All About Racing

Mat Williamson of Canada hoists the trophy while wearing the traditional black hat after winning the Outlaw 200 at Fulton Speedway on Saturday. Internet photo

By Ed & Betty Biittig

Mat Williamson of St. Catherine’s, Ontario ran away and dominated the 39th Annual Outlaw 200 at Fulton Speedway on Saturday, scoring his third win in the prestigious event.

Other winners in the preliminary races on Thursday were Jacob Gureck (Novice Sportsman) Ron Marsden (Hobby Stocks) Joe Isabella (STAR Mod Lites) and Willy Easling (Four Cylinder). Fast Friday night winners were Joe Trenca (Empire Super Sprints) Luke Horning (Pro Stocks).

Ahead of Super DIRT Week in Oswego, we reviewed its history to highlight why it's a top event in dirt track racing.

The tradition began in 1972 with the inaugural Schaefer International 100-lap event, which offered a $5,000 prize to the winner. The program featured an impressive roster of over 100 drivers from states including Florida, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, as well as competitors from Canada. Buzzie Reutimann of Zephyrhills, Florida, claimed victory at the first race, which was promoted by Glen Donnelly. Over the years, the event expanded to include additional divisions and days, transforming it into an almost week-long affair.

For approximately 44 years, the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse served as the venue for this highly anticipated race within the motorsport’s community. In 2015, however, the State of New York removed the historic track and grandstand—an oval that had existed since 1909. Subsequently, it was announced that the event would relocate to Oswego Speedway, an asphalt track situated north of Syracuse along Lake Ontario. A temporary clay surface was installed over the asphalt for the duration of the event and then removed afterward. The initial years at Oswego presented challenges, including inclement weather and difficulties maintaining the clay surface. Over time, both participants and spectators adapted to these changes.

Travel distances also shifted; while the trip to the fairgrounds was approximately two hours or 125 miles, reaching Oswego now requires two hours and 22 minutes, or about 150 miles. Notably, World Racing Group, CEO, Brian Carter and his team have consistently enhanced the event each year. The community continues to welcome participants warmly, and local establishments such as Wade’s Diner are highly recommended.

Also, on the racing schedule this weekend is an event that began in 2006, with 14 different drivers having won the “Working Man’s Race,” originally held at Afton Raceway in Afton, NY.

This year, the event will return to Afton Motorsports Park and take place on Columbus Day weekend, concurrent with Super DIRT Week. This event was founded and promoted by Brett Deyo of BD Motorsports Media, LLC.

For information on both of these events check social media sites.

Kenny Marshall has dedicated 50 years of service to the racing community as an official head starter at various tracks spanning from New York to Florida. We extend our congratulations to Kenny, who has recently announced his retirement.

Until next week, please send all news and/or comments to biittig@yahoo.com