Four Montenaro brothers, L-R kneeling John and Andrew, in back Paul and Anthony posed with their display at the Saratoga Auto Museum for Saturday’s “Racing Memories” event.
By Ed & Betty Biittig
Since you last heard from us a few interesting items have come our way regarding local racing.
The annual “Racing Memories” event took place this past Saturday at the Saratoga Auto Museum, overseen by long-time auto racing correspondent Ron Hedger. Hedger, who serves as curator of the museum’s “Racing in New York” segment, initiated this special event several years ago.
This year's program commenced with local collectors showcasing their automotive memorabilia, followed by six distinctive presentations that offered insights into various aspects of racing history, personal anecdotes, and reflections for an audience that filled the venue to capacity.
A highlight with regional significance featured Mr. Hedger interviewing Paul Montenaro, Promoter of Dodge City Speedway’s go-kart track in Howes Cave. Montenaro recounted the Montenaro family’s initial involvement as stewards of this well-known venue and described last season’s celebrations marking fifty years of operation. Several events were held to recognize the many dirt racers whose careers originated in the go-karts at Dodge City Speedway. Montenaro noted that the facility has served as the starting point for not only racing drivers but also for numerous officials, including flaggers and announcers. At present, more than fifty karts participate in weekly competitions at the venue, with entry-level karts priced around $4,000–$5,000.
The Montenaro family was originally approached to manage Dodge City Speedway after restrictions prevented them from continuing operations at their home-built track. Accepting the opportunity led to a legacy spanning more than five decades of contribution to the region's racing community.
In recent developments, Fonda Speedway and Lebanon Valley Speedway have announced their intention to collaborate this season on a joint challenge between the two venues. According to an official notice posted on Facebook, the Fonda/Lebanon Valley Challenge will offer additional prize money and increased prestige for participants in the Modified, Sportsman, and Pro Stock divisions.The inaugural event is scheduled to take place at Fonda on August 1 and will be held concurrently with the Hondo Classic and the BOBCO Dash for Pro Stocks.
The pre-season tradition, Fonda Speedway car show at the Via Port Mall in Rotterdam is scheduled for Friday-Sunday, March 20-22 with move in date, March 19.
Fonda Speedway will host the "Chill Factor" Enduro event on New Year's Day, offering a 50-lap race for dedicated fans. Detailed information regarding the "Chill Factor" Enduro is available on the speedway’s official website. Car registration is $20 and can be completed through My Race Pass. Grandstand admission is $10 (cash only at the gate), pit admission is $30 for individuals aged 12 and above, and $10 for children 11 and under. In the event of extreme weather, the race is rescheduled for Saturday, January 3.
The Short Track Super Series promoter, Brett Deyo has announced the STSS North and South regional Modified racing events, scheduled at 15 different tracks across six states and Quebec, Canada. Notably, the New York North Region will commence its season at Lebanon Valley Speedway on Thursday, May 21. Additional venues on the schedule include Devil’s Bowl in Vermont; Afton Motorsports Park, Fonda, Outlaw Speedway; and two Canadian tracks, Autodrome Granby and LeRPM Speedway. The series will conclude at Orange County Fair Speedway with the Hard Clay Finale during Eastern States Weekend. For further information, please visit the official STSS website.
Until next time please send all news and/or comments to biittig@yahoo.com
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