All About Racing

Josh Kane of Esperance was the winner of the “Chill Factor” Enduro event at Fonda Speedway on New Year's Day. Track photo

By Ed & Betty Biittig

As 2026 begins, Howard Commander, owner of the Albany-Saratoga Speedway in Malta, has announced the appointment of Marcy Mangino DeVore and Pete Scully as the management team for the esteemed dirt track's 2026 race season. Marcy previously worked alongside her husband, Lyle DeVore, until his passing in December following a four-year battle with cancer. Lyle had served as promoter and manager since 2012, when Commander initially leased the track from the Richards family before acquiring it in 2014. Pete Scully has also been an integral part of the DeVores' leadership team since their tenure began.

Under Lyle DeVore's dedicated guidance, the Albany-Saratoga Speedway achieved national recognition as a premier dirt track, and in 2022, DeVore was honored by his peers as the ARPY Promoter of the Year.

Regarding the appointments of Marcy DeVore and Pete Scully, Commander stated, "Marcy and Pete have performed these responsibilities alongside Lyle for many years and have excelled in their roles. They possess a comprehensive understanding of what is required." Both will maintain their respective positions, supported by a capable team of returning track employees, race teams, and sponsors, all committed to preserving Lyle's legacy.

Marcy and Pete are actively preparing the 2026 race schedule and coordinating the 61st season opener on Friday, April 17, 2026, which will feature a Super DIRTcar Series Big Block Modified event.

The 75th anniversary season at Fonda Speedway commenced with its earliest opening in the track's history, taking place on New Year’s Day. Despite challenging weather conditions, including cold temperatures, strong winds, and snow and ice on the track surface, a dedicated group of fans attended, and 42 vehicles participated in the 50-lap “Chill Factor” Enduro, competing for a top prize of $500.

Josh Kane of Esperance secured his position in Fonda Speedway's record books by winning this historically early opening event. Kane, who typically competes in the Sportsman division at Fonda, also claimed victory in the 50-lap Enduro during the Montgomery County Open weekend last September.

Kane now joins a distinguished group that includes Jack Johnson, Fonda’s most winning driver with eight opening day victories. Lou Lazzaro and Stewart Friesen share seven wins each. Dave Lape and Pete Corey followed with five wins apiece, while Jeff Trombley has four, and Bobby Varin has three. Several others, Jim Luke, C.D. Coville, Danny Johnson, Matt DeLorenzo, Pat Ward, and Matt Sheppard have each two opening day wins. Meanwhile, a number of drivers can claim one opening day victory: Buddy Shuman, Chiuck Kotwica, Irv Taylor, Bill Wimble, Tom Kotary, Kenny Shoemaker, Don Wayman, Rene Charland, Maynard Forrette, Dave Pelczar, Pep Pepicelli, Jimmy Horton, Bob McCreadie, Mike Romano, Dave Camara, Brett Hearn, Tim McCreadie, Mitch Gibbs, Ronnie Johnson, Mike Mahaney, Justin Boehler, Tim Fuller, and Michael Maresca.

Next on the 2026 Fonda schedule is the annual Race Car Show at ViaPort Rotterdam March 20-22 during mall hours. Cars move into the mall on Thursday, March 19 and move out at the close of business March 22.

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