Bold Predictions: Albany-Saratoga djdaviesmedia 26 Will Shake Up The Point Standings

06/18/2024: Chris Crane Jr. (711), Taylor LaPlante (T32), and Michael Coffey Jr. (06) go three-wide at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. (Rich Post Photo)

MALTA, NY – With just one week until the djdaviesmedia 26 for Sportsman Modifieds at Albany-Saratoga as part of a huge Don Davies celebration of life Super DIRTcar Series event, it’s time for some bold predictions about who’s moving up and who might be moving out in the JAM Performance CDRA championship point standings.

Let’s recap what we know for the Tuesday June 25th special at the great race place in regard to the djdaviesmedia 26 for Sportsman Modifieds. Cordova Plumbing is sweetening the victor or victors’ spoils if car counts dictate multiple features. That’s just the beginning.

On top of the $1,046 to win prize, companies such as Madsen Overhead Doors along with Greg’s Towing and Repair are offering lap leader bonuses and finishing position bonuses. Leaders of laps 8 and 18 will get $76, while finishers in the 8th and 18th positions will get $118.

The djdaviesmedia 26 will serve as the second CDRA points paying race of the season. Drivers participating should be DIRTcar legal. Timed laps will determine lineups for heats and/or feature(s). If there are enough cars to warrant two main events for the Sportsman Modifieds, BOTH will be worth full CDRA points based on series points structure.

Now, let’s talk bold predictions. Based on weekly racing, results, stats, and just a good old-fashioned hunch we’ll throw out some names that may move up, down, or out of the top 10 in JAM Performance CDRA series points. Let’s start with our point leader Cody Ochs.

Cody Ochs has a pair of wins this season with one coming at Glen Ridge Motorsports park and one at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. Heading to the great race place and should he be in competition it’ll be hard for the Rensselaer, NY racer to maintain the lead. He’s struggled a bit at ‘Malta’ and in eight races has just two top five finishes and two top 10’s.

Bold Prediction: Cody may very well lose the point lead after this race. Plenty of opportunity to rebound post djdaviesmedia 26, but the Albany-Saratoga race will shake the point standings up.

Dylan Nichols and Dale Robinson are wild cards and that’s okay. CDRA season one is like the wild west, because you never know what gunslingers are coming to town to shoot down a top performance. But Jason Gray has history at Albany-Saratoga. While he’s not a regular in 2024 at Malta, he’s been in victory lane before and has multiple solid finishes.

Bold Prediction: Gray could advance to the point lead from his 4th position with a solid run on a special Tuesday night at the great race place. He’s only five points behind Ochs and statistically he’s more consistent at Albany-Saratoga.

Brendan Gibbons is an unknown. Currently 5th in CDRA points headed to the great race place, he’s run into a string of bad luck this season including a blown engine this past Friday night in the David Bosclair owned 02 Bicknell. Should he be back in competition for the djdaviesmedia 26 there’s an opportunity for him to maintain a top ten-point standing. But Gibbons racing recently posted a DIRTcar legal crate for sale?

Bold Prediction: Gibbons is headed down the point standings and out of the top 10. We would love to see him prove this notion dead wrong.

Jeremy Huntoon is a mystery and Adam Leslie is a good fella, but said it’s a bit of a haul on a Tuesday but wishes everyone involved with Albany-Saratoga Speedway and the Don Davies Memorial the best with the event. That leaves us at Taylor Wason. Quiet kid, improving each year, and respectable racer. The Middlegrove, NY driver just needs to conquer his fear of the valley and he could legitimately have a shot at a trip to CDRA title town.

Bold Prediction: Wason lays down a solid lap, puts himself in the main event, and earns a hard-fought top 10 finish in the djdaviesmedia 26. That would send him back to the ridge in July still top 10 in points, if not top five.

Despite starting the season off ninth in points, Zach Buff is only 10 points out of the lead and points paying race number two is at a place he’s been to victory lane at. Buff races weekly at Albany-Saratoga and has been a top contender with a handful of top five and top ten finishes to his credit. The Latham, NY racer would benefit tremendously from a good run at the great race place.

Bold Prediction: Buff lays down top five finish in the djdaviesmedia 26 and leaves Albany-Saratoga Speedway the new CDRA point leader headed back to Glen Ridge for round three in July.

Let’s look deep down at the current point standings until we find Tyler Bobar. After an impressive display in points paying race number one at Glen Ridge, and an unfortunate scale infraction he overcame adversity to still pick up a win this season. Should he be in competition at the djdaviesmedia 26 he has a legit shot at climbing way up the point standings considering he’s only 20 out of the point lead.

Bold Prediction: Bobar shows up and shows out. Solid top 10 finish to catapult himself into the top 10 in CDRA points. This would put him on solid footing heading back to his home track at Glen Ridge for round three.

Now here’s where we get into drivers that are not in the points just yet and we’re starting with Tim Hartman Jr. Big time little Tim may have missed race number one at the ridge, but headed to Albany-Saratoga puts the point game in his wheelhouse. A place he has two victories this season and the current track point lead. So what’s the prediction on Hartman?

Bold Prediction: TH2 contends for a win and uses a top three finish to catapult himself into CDRA title talk. He finds a ride for the ridge in July, remains red hot in August for the ‘Valley Swing’ and heads to Malta Massive Weekend with a shot at landing in the money. Now that’s bold.

There are of course a host of other racers that would absolutely like to spoil bold predictions and that would be fantastic. Remember, bold predictions are a biproduct of actual race results, performances, and a wildly unknown future. There’s a bit of knowledge mixed with entertainment. Bold predictions are in no way a knock on any driver. Have fun with it.

“It’s exciting. The unknown, the differences from race-to-race, the way everything could change in a single race, it’s just exciting. Nobody knowns how it’ll all shake out, but Tuesday June 25th at Albany-Saratoga is going to be a good night celebrating the life of a really good human being in our sport and I thank Lyle DeVore and Jo Ann Davies for the opportunity to be a small part of it with this project,” said CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.

There’s a lot of uncertainty in CDRA season one. Drivers show up to the specific points paying races, they earn points, and the series along with marketing partners provide monetary rewards for their efforts. It’s a wide-open outlaw style points shootout. Sportsman Modified drivers get to the track on Tuesday June 25th for the djdaviesmedia 26 and make lasting Malta memories.

CDRA is a nostalgic throwback to the CVRA days. A series designed specifically for Capital District racing. Six races make up a diverse schedule at storied dirt tracks to crown a champion. Are you brave enough to live life on the ridge, battle at the great race place, and tame the valley of speed? The drivers who do will earn hardware and some green for their efforts.

For more information on CDRA visit http://www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at http://www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follow.

Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.

2024 CDRA Racing Series Schedule
Race #1 – May 19, 2024 (Glen Ridge) – WINNER: Cody Ochs
Race #2 – June 25, 2024 (Albany Saratoga) – Don Davies Memorial
Race #3 – July 28, 2024 (Glen Ridge) – Hall Of Fame Classic Night
Race #4 – August 17, 2024 (Lebanon Valley) – Halloween Night
Race #5 – August 31, 2024 (Lebanon Valley) – Mr. Dirt Track USA Night
Race #6 – September 20, 2024 (Albany Saratoga) – Malta Massive Weekend

CDRA is brought to you by marketing partners that include Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply, Fox Racing Shox, Finish Line Designs, Full Throttle R/C Raceway, Hazilla Brands, DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, and GM Performance 602 Crate Engines. Any information shared about participating Capital District tracks is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Information including but not limited to winners share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change. Thank you for supporting the Capital District Racing Association.

Victory Letter: Ochs Earns Congratulatory Letter After First Ever CDRA Win

05/19/24: Cody Ochs became the first ever CDRA winner after visiting Finish Line Designs Victory Lane at Glen Ridge Motorsports Park back on May 19th. (Bill McGaffin Photo)

FONDA, NY – Win a main event and get a personalized letter of congratulations from CDRA competition director Rob Hazer. Appreciation. It’s all about appreciation.

winner_r1_ochs Download

CDRA is brought to you by marketing partners that include Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply, Fox Racing Shox, Finish Line Designs, Full Throttle R/C Raceway, Hazilla, DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, and GM Performance 602 Crate Engines. Any information shared about participating Capital District tracks is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Information including but not limited to winners share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change. Thank you for supporting Capital District Racing Association.

The Five: Ochs, Nichols, Robinson, Gray, and Gibbons Top Point Standings Heading To Albany-Saratoga

06/04/24: Cody Ochs (33) and Mike Ballestero (27) turn hot laps at Albany-Saratoga. (Quentin Young Photo)

FONDA, NY – Season one of JAM Performance CDRA racing is like a wild west shootout. Each points paying event has its own character, and nobody knows who’s going to win the battle. Heading into Albany-Saratoga Tuesday June 25th Cody Ochs, Dylan Nichols, Dale Robinson, Jason Gray, and Branden Gibbons represent the top five point earning competitors.

Point leader Cody Ochs calls Albany-Saratoga home on Friday nights, and Glen Ridge Motorsports Park home on Sundays. With a handful of top five finishes, the Rensselaer, NY racer’s biggest win came on Sunday May 19th when he put the Next Generation Services 33 in victory lane at the ridge in their DIRTcar Sportsman Series East Region race, which doubled as the first CDRA points event.

Second place in points currently belongs to South New Berlin, NY driver Dylan Nichols. He had a spirited battle for position inside the top five at the ridge, which ultimately ended in a runner up finish. The G&M Automotive 01D isn’t a familiar name in the Capital District racing scene, because he calls Afton Speedway home on Friday nights. He’s just 3 points behind point leader Cody Ochs.

Dale Robinson currently holds third place in JAM Performance CDRA point standings. Sharon, VT racer Robinson was part of that spirited battle including the aforementioned Nichols during the first points paying event where he finished third respectively. Robinson raced his IV Generation Paving number 4 into a podium finish where he is just 4 points behind the top spot.

Jason Gray needs no introduction to the Capital District racing scene. The East Stafford, VT racer has been to victory lane at Albany-Saratoga in the past and runs strong whenever he makes the haul from Vermont to New York. His Connecticut Valley Auto Auction double zero had a solid outing in race number one landing him fourth in CDRA standings just 5 points out of the lead.

Rounding out the five is the flamboyant racer out of Amsterdam, NY named Brendan Gibbons. He drove his newly acquired ride in the C&D Stump and Tree Removal 02 race rod to a strong fifth place finish. In making car owner David Bosclair proud, Gibbons landed himself fifth in CDRA points heading into Albany-Saratoga on June 25th just 6 out of the point lead.

Some names to watch out for at the Don Davies NY Modifieds 76 special on Tuesday June 25th, which is the next CDRA points paying event, are Taylor Wason, Zach Buff, and Tony Farone who have all called Albany-Saratoga Speedway home in past years. Their point championship standings could change drastically after round two.

Last but not least, a few wild card names to keep an eye on include Stephen Gray, Tavien Blowers, and Tyler Bobar. These three racers call the ridge home on Sundays and if they choose to compete at Albany-Saratoga June 25th they set themselves up nicely in the points battle, as CDRA heads back to Glen Ridge in July.

For more information on CDRA visit http://www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at http://www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follow.

Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.

CDRA is brought to you by marketing partners that include Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply, Fox Racing Shox, Finish Line Designs, Full Throttle R/C Raceway, Hazilla, DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, and GM Performance 602 Crate Engines. Any information shared about participating Capital District tracks is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Information including but not limited to winners share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change. Thank you for supporting Capital District Racing Association.

Capital District Hot Spot For R/C Racing Full Throttle Supporting CDRA Driver Direct Program

5/24/22: Full Throttle R/C Raceway Setup To Market The Fastest Clay Oval In The Northeast. (Full Throttle RC Raceway Photo)

FONDA, NY – Full Throttle R/C Raceway located at 4 Center Court in Green Island, NY is a hot spot for radio-controlled racing in the Capital District. They offer racers and race fans their competitive fix while dirt tracks are quiet. Now they’re offering something back to Capital District Sportsman Modified racers with support of the CDRA Driver Direct program.

Driver Direct is a pilot program CDRA is building from the ground up, like the series, which builds a bridge directly between driver and marketing partner. Starting with JAM Performance and going down the final point standings, each marketing partner’s support goes directly to a driver in a specific position in the final point standings.

R/C racing, particularly with the highly popular Mudboss divisions, took the racing community by storm. Mudboss R/C cars look very much like miniature versions of the drivers you see weekly at Albany-Saratoga, Lebanon Valley, or Glen Ridge. CDRA is proud to announce Full Throttle R/C Raceway joined our family of marketing partners in support of the Driver Direct program.

Their monetary support will go directly to the fifth-place finisher in the overall point standings at the end of the season. The Driver Direct program by all accounts is working as it should.

“I’ve known Jen (Burega-Holt) for many years. And her father Steve for that matter. She’s always been kind. She’s one of those good souls who wants to make a positive impact in our sport, and in our area. In developing CDRA I wanted to bring in folks like that. Folks that put the sport first. Happy to have her part of our program along with her husband Greg and Dave Peek who I watched race as a young man. They got a good thing going with Full Throttle,” said CDRA Competition Director Rob Hazer.

Full Throttle R/C Raceway has been operating since 2014 as the Northeast’s fastest indoor clay oval. They offer a busy lineup of divisions including Big Block, Small Block, Sportsman, Super Late Model, Crate Late Model, Spec Sprint, 360 Sprint, Novice, and Jr. Novice. They also have a fully stocked hobby shop. It’s truly family fun for everyone of all skill levels.

Check out Full Throttle R/C Raceway on Social Media Facebook Group and their state-of-the-art online registration system where drivers can sign up for classes they want to race ahead of race day.

For more information on CDRA visit http://www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at http://www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follow.

Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.

CDRA is brought to you by marketing partners that include Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply, Fox Racing Shox, Finish Line Designs, Full Throttle R/C Raceway, Hazilla, DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, and GM Performance 602 Crate Engines. Any information shared about participating Capital District tracks is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Information including but not limited to winners share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change. Thank you for supporting Capital District Racing Association.

Finish Line Designs Joins CDRA Marketing Partners Supporting Driver Direct Program

05/16/24: FLD (Finish Line Designs) Custom High Quality Embroidery Joins CDRA Marketing Partners. (Finish Line Designs Photo)

FONDA, NY – When the JAM Performance CDRA points paying season kicks off as part of the DIRTcar East Region Sportsman Modified event at Glen Ridge Motorsports Park Sunday May 19th it marks the begging of a championship chase that now includes Finish Line Designs as marketing partners supporting the Driver Direct program.

Driver Direct is a pilot program CDRA is building from the ground up, like the series, and builds a bridge between driver and marketing partner. Starting with JAM Performance and going down the final point standings, each marketing partner’s support goes directly to a driver in a specific position in the final point standings.

CDRA is excited to announce Finish Line Designs out of Oneida, NY has joined the family of marketing partners in support of the drivers. That’s after all, exactly what the Driver Direct Program is intended for. Now, whatever driver finishes fourth in final Capital District Racing Association points will earn $250 from FLD.

FLD support goes beyond just that, as they also present the CDRA victory lane sign and provided series feature winner stickers for each driver to win one of the six points paying races at either Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, or Glen Ridge Motorsports Park.

Finish Line Designs, or FLD, are well known for their high-quality custom embroidery on hats, shirts, jackets, hoodies, bags, accessories, and more. They also offer a full line of screen-printed products including sweatshirts, t-shirts, men’s, ladies, and youth sizes.

Maybe you’re in the need for vinyl printed graphics? FLD does that as well, with a full line of high-quality vehicle graphics, stickers, labels, decals, banners, business signs, or racecar wraps. FLD can help you promote your business or event, as well as gear up for any occasion.

“Meghan and Matt were really helpful and because of their kindness I offered the opportunity to be part of what we’re building with CDRA. We soft launched this series, keeping it kind of small and exclusive to the Capital District tracks with like-minded rules, but I explained the Driver Direct program and they were in. I appreciate their support and being a part of our project,” said CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.

For more information on CDRA visit http://www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at http://www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follow.

Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.

2024 CDRA Racing Series Schedule
Race #1 – May 19, 2024 (Glen Ridge) – DIRTcar East Sportsman Event
Race #2 – June 25, 2024 (Albany Saratoga) – Don Davies Memorial
Race #3 – July 28, 2024 (Glen Ridge) – Hall Of Fame Classic Night
Race #4 – August 17, 2024 (Lebanon Valley) – Halloween Night
Race #5 – August 31, 2024 (Lebanon Valley) – Mr. Dirt Track USA Night
Race #6 – September 20, 2024 (Albany Saratoga) – Malta Massive Weekend

CDRA is brought to you by marketing partners that include Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply, Fox Racing Shox, Finish Line Designs, Full Throttle R/C Raceway, Hazilla, DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, and GM Performance 602 Crate Engines. Any information shared about participating Capital District tracks is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Information including but not limited to winners share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change. Thank you for supporting Capital District Racing Association.

Track Spotlight: Lebanon Valley Swing Will Separate Contenders From Pretenders In CDRA Title Chase

05/04/24: Nick Giardini (399) and Tim Hartman Jr. (22) race for qualifying position on the high banks of Lebanon Valley Speedway. (Bobby Chalmers Photo)

FONDA, NY – On Route 20 in West Lebanon, NY stands a historic structure that can’t be missed. Home of the high banks, Lebanon Valley Speedway has hosted classic events and produced memorable rivalries. To earn the first ever JAM Performance CDRA title drivers will face the challenge of the valley swing in August.

Howard Commander is legendary in the promotional game, but he recruited his good friend Ron Dwyer to help freshen things up. It’s working. Their weekly program of Big Block Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, 358 Modifieds, Pro Stock, and Super Stocks has the high banks buzzing with energy. Throw in some Limited Sportsman and 4-Cylinder races and their Saturday night program rivals any for entertainment value.

JAM Performance CDRA Racing starts its valley swing, which is back-to-back races on the high banks of Lebanon Valley Speedway, on Saturday August 17th as part of their Halloween In August program. Visiting drivers can join regulars in their annual trick or treat meet and greet with fans on the front stretch handing out candy to kids in costumes and maybe signing an autograph or two.

CDRA Sportsman Modifieds return just two short weeks later to be part of another solid program at Lebanon Valley for Mr. Dirt Track USA on Saturday August 31st. The Super DIRTcar Big Block Modified Series headlines the program, with Sportsman Modifieds steed fast ready to compete for CDRA points. Also running are regular events for Limited Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Super Stocks.

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Ron and his son Olden, who races Modified at Lebanon, in the past. They supported a 358 Modified program we worked on. Ron said they’re (Lebanon) excited about this program that highlights Capital District racing, its drivers, and its historic tracks. I appreciate their kind words, which are hard to come by these days for anyone trying to make a positive impact on our sport,” said CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.

Nobody is hotter than Tim Hartman Jr. in Sportsman Modified racing at Lebanon Valley. He has gone to victory lane back-to-back at his Saturday night home for Parillo Racing. Drivers who might break his streak include Ricky Davis, Kevin Ward, Michael Sabia, or Justin Gozzi.

For more information on CDRA visit http://www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at http://www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follow.

Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.

CDRA is brought to you by marketing partners that include Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply, Fox Racing Shox, Finish Line Designs, Full Throttle R/C Raceway, Hazilla, DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, and GM Performance 602 Crate Engines. Any information shared about participating Capital District tracks is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Information including but not limited to winners share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change. Thank you for supporting Capital District Racing Association.

Track Spotlight: Albany-Saratoga Malta Massive Weekend September 20th Will Be CDRA Points Championship Night

05/03/24: Travis Whitbeck (405) and Mike Benson (33B) turn hot laps at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. (Quentin Young Photo)

FONDA, NY – Off route 9 in Malta, NY is a hot spot for Capital District dirt track racing dubbed the great race place. Albany-Saratoga Speedway is rich in history and home to many accomplished racers. The JAM Performance CDRA Racing season is proudly part of two points paying events in 2024 including Don Davies Memorial night and Malta Massive Weekend.

Every week at ‘the great race place’ track promoter Lyle Devore offers racers and fans arguably the hottest ticket in the Capitaland with a program consisting of Big Block Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, Limited Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Street Stocks. Sprinkle in a series of 358 Modified races, 4-Cylinder contests, and special events and you’ve got what many call a blockbuster program.

JAM Performance CDRA Racing is proud to be a small part of a heartfelt memorial dedicated to Don Davies on Tuesday June 25th. It’s the first points paying event of the 2024 season at Albany-Saratoga for CDRA and features a program including the Don Davies NY Modifieds 76 Super DIRTcar Series show, with a $1,046 to win Cordova Plumbing Sportsman Modified event.

CDRA then returns to crown a series champion on Friday September 20th as part of Malta Massive Weekend. The event is a DIRTcar Sportsman Modified Fall Championship race that will also serve as a points paying race for CDRA racers. Also racing that day is the DIRTcar 358 Modified series, Street Stocks, and 4-Cylinders.

“CDRA is a different approach to series racing, but with a nostalgic feel. And part of that nostalgia is having Malta again as our home base of operations if you will. I’m excited to be a small part of Lyle’s program again including Malta Massive weekend and the Don Davies special. Two great races that will highlight some solid racers our area offers,” said CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.

Joey Scarborough opened the 2024 weekly racing season with a win, before a red-hot Tim Hartman Jr. went for back-to-back trips to victory lane. Other drivers to keep an eye on that currently reside top 10 in Sportsman Modified points at Albany-Saratoga are Chris Crane Jr., Mike Coffey, Dylan Madsen, Chris Jakubiak, Dan Grignon, Travis Whitbeck, Dave Baranowski, and Darryl Nutting.

For more information on CDRA visit http://www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at http://www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follow.

Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.

CDRA is brought to you by marketing partners that include Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply, Fox Racing Shox, Finish Line Designs, Full Throttle R/C Raceway, Hazilla, DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, and GM Performance 602 Crate Engines. Any information shared about participating Capital District tracks is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Information including but not limited to winners share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change. Thank you for supporting Capital District Racing Association.

Track Spotlight: CDRA Points Start At Glen Ridge May 19th With A Return For More July 28th

04/28/24: Cody Ochs turns practice laps at Glen Ridge. CDRA points begin May 19th at the fastest quarter mile on dirt. (Brady Houser Photo)

FONDA, NY – Nestled on the hill in Fultonville, NY in the town of Glen is a storied little track that could. Glen Ridge Motorsports Park known as the fastest quarter mile on dirt has an eventful history and the JAM Performance CDRA Racing points paying championship trail kicks off living life on the ridge.

Current and longest tenured track promoter Ray Sefrin offers a weekly program featuring DIRTcar 358 Modifieds, DIRTcar Sportsman Modifieds, DIRTcar Pro Stocks, DIRTcar Mini Stocks, RUSH Late Models, Limited Sportsman, Street Stocks, and two divisions of Sling Shot racing.

On May 19th ‘the ridge’ hosts an action-packed night of racing that serves as a points paying CDRA event, as they host DIRTcar Sportsman East series along with their full program of divisions. The evenings racing is presented in part by Riley Mortuary and for the Sportsman Modifieds it’s looking like a 40-lap main event paying a minimum of $1,000 to win.

The JAM Performance CDRA Racing series returns for another run at ‘the ridge’ on July 28th as part of their Hall-Of-Fame Classic night presented in part by West End Towing.

Andrew Buff has ruled ‘the ridge’ for the past four seasons, but in 2024 has moved up to the DIRTcar 358 Modifieds leaving the Sportsman Modified division title up for grabs. In pursuit of that honor drivers will be part of two points paying CDRA races on the hill.

“I’m excited for the drivers at Glen Ridge and appreciate Ray’s enthusiasm and kind words when we spoke about this project. Guys that show up on May 19th to race in the DIRTcar East Sportsman Modified race are also earning CDRA points. And with 2 of the first 3 points paying events happening at ‘the ridge’ it’s possible for one of their regulars to get a good start to the points championship,” said CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.

Some recent winners at Glen Ridge from the 2023 racing season include Derrick McGrew Jr., Zach Buff, Cody Ochs, and Tony Farone.

For more information on CDRA visit http://www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at http://www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follow.

Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.

2024 CDRA Racing Series Schedule
Race #1 – May 19, 2024 (Glen Ridge) – DIRTcar East Sportsman Event
Race #2 – June 25, 2024 (Albany Saratoga) – Don Davies Memorial Night
Race #3 – July 28, 2024 (Glen Ridge) – Hall Of Fame Classic Night
Race #4 – August 17, 2024 (Lebanon Valley) – Halloween Night
Race #5 – August 31, 2024 (Lebanon Valley) – Mr. Dirt Track USA Night
Race #6 – September 20, 2024 (Albany Saratoga) – Malta Massive Weekend

CDRA is brought to you by marketing partners that include Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply, Fox Racing Shox, Finish Line Designs, Full Throttle R/C Raceway, Hazilla, DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, and GM Performance 602 Crate Engines. Any information shared about participating Capital District tracks is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Information including but not limited to winners share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change. Thank you for supporting Capital District Racing Association.

JAM Performance Rewarding CDRA Champion and More For 2024 Racing Season

05/06/24: Competitors Car Gets The Full JAM Experience Prior To Competition At Albany-Saratoga Speedway. (Elmo’s Speed Supply Photo)

FONDA, NY – JAM Performance, a division of Elmo’s Speed Supply, has quickly become known for their winning formula of suspension components, setups, and service. Proprietor Chris Reckner is also known for his generous support of racing in the Capital District including CDRA racers.

JAM Performance is an authorized Fox Shock distributor and repair center. They continue to develop improved quality and durability to their already successful combination of suspension components. They’ve proven victorious with multiple drivers taking a smooth ride to victory lane.

“We’ve been hard at work doing what we need to build, repair, and service the growing JAM Performance customer base. Shocks can be dropped off at the shop or shipped to us for service,” said Chris Reckner, owner, and proprietor of Elmo’s Speed Supply.

JAM Performance has an ace in the hole named Andrew Buff. He’s a winner, champion, and proven shock fanatic. He’s been a big part of Elmo’s Speed Supply and JAM Performance since Reckner brought him on full-time at the speed shop during the summer of 2022. Shocks, setups, seminars, and swap meets; Chris, Andrew, Carter, and crew cover it all.

“Having Andrew here to help has been great. The kid has been helping with a variety of services we offer including scaling cars, setup advice, general maintenance, and can be available to our customers with just a phone call,” Reckner commented.

JAM Performance in conjunction with Elmo’s Speed Supply is offering a bounty of cash to the podium finishers in 2024 CDRA point standings. Champion to receive $1,500, second $1,000, and third $500 in a program called ‘Driver Direct’ where the series builds a relationship directly between driver earning monetary rewards and the sponsor who offered it.

“Chris does a lot for racing in the Capital District and beyond. He services customers at all tracks involved plus many more. He’s a good dude and when I chatted with him, he was enthusiastic and on board immediately. It made my job easier. I appreciate him,” said CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.

JAM Performance and Elmo’s Speed Supply are located at 861 Saratoga Road, Burnt Hills NY and can be contacted during regular business hours by phone at 518-429-4746. They also have a solid Social Media presence on Facebook and can also be emailed at creckner17@gmail.com. Their tagline says it all; what does your speed shop do for you?

For more information on CDRA visit http://www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at http://www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follow.

Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.

CDRA is brought to you by marketing partners that include Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply, Fox Racing Shox, Finish Line Designs, Full Throttle R/C Raceway, Hazilla, DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, and GM Performance 602 Crate Engines. Any information shared about participating Capital District tracks is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Information including but not limited to winners share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change. Thank you for supporting Capital District Racing Association.

Jack Johnson Was A Larger Than Life Dirt Racing Icon; His Passing Brings Memories For Many Of His Fans Including Myself

May You Find Comfort In Knowing You Weren’t Preparing For The Heavens, They Were Preparing For You. Rest In Peace Jack.

April 2, 2021 – Fonda, NY – Blog By Rob Hazer: When I was told Jack Johnson, my childhood hero, and favorite racer from Albany-Saratoga and Fonda Speedways’ had passed away last night I found myself in a weird place. I was oddly relieved he would no longer have to endure such an intrusive disease. I was sad that a man who was not only an icon of the sport, but to me a good person in every interaction we had over the years had moved on to the big dirt circle in the sky. Finally, joyful as I spoke with his brother Jeff about memories. We all have them of Jack. I’ll share my favorite two. Bear with me.

Let’s start with the photo. It’s not the familiar orange 12A, because Jack had a storied career and many car owners. This is the Jake Spraker 1J. Shit the photo isn’t even taken at Malta or Fonda, where Jack had more career wins and track titles than most drivers will have career starts. Sadly, I have no clue who even took it, but look at the blue sky with the clouds in the background. It is heavenly, and fitting for my final farewell to my families’ favorite Modified racer.

When I was a kid Jumpin’ Jack Johnson was already a household name. Fast forward to my ‘mainstream racing media’ days and every single time I wanted to talk with Jack on the radio or interview him for an article he’d smile and say, “sure thing Haze.” I mean to be writing about a driver whom you played with replica cars of his in the driveway dirt, was surreal. But you’d never know it. Jack was so down to earth. He knew he was good. How could he not, but he never EVER in my lifetime was anything short of humble.

FIRST STORY: So, there I was at Albany-Saratoga getting ready to ask Jack what song he’d like on his driver profile video I was making for him and the Speed Zone website back in like 2007. As I approached, he was standing there leaned up against the fence by pit road entrance from the track. Looking dapper in his professional driver suit, silver hair flowing, sunglasses on, all while watching Sportsman hot laps. My initial thought was why is an multi-time track champion watching Sportsman hot laps? But, who am I to question a living legend right?

I also couldn’t help but notice the swagger in which he stood. His arms crossed, poised, with almost a sinister grin as if he knew he was visiting victory lane later that evening. It struck a thought in my mind i’ll never forget; this is by far THE COOLEST driver in dirt track racing. Nobody had that kind of swagger radiating off them while quietly watching a support division turn warm up laps. I shook the star struck look off my face and said, “hey Jumper what’s good guy? What do you see out there?”

He responded, “Hey Haze. How are you doing? You see that cushion, it could be a problem, but if you run just above it, that’s where you can go fast.”

For real? Dude was studying the track during hot laps. Not just a teacher, but a true student of the sport even after all his success. That’s what separated Jack from most others. I asked him what song he wanted for his video and he smiled and said, “that song about riding a cowboy and saving a horse. I like that song.” So be it Jumper, so be it.

SECOND STORY: Among the many memories I have over my career in motorsports coverage of Malta and Fonda, was the time Jack was in full fight mode with ALS. Roughly 2015ish. That old timer was tough as nails and didn’t let the disease define him. Under Matt DeLorenzo’s promotional leadership along with a lot of help from John Lakata, the Jack Johnson tribute race took on the larger-than-life persona of the man it was honoring.

There were so many people at the track and as I looked across from my little handicapper’s booth on the infield by the scales at the time. I was thankful to ‘Matty D’ and proud to be a small part of it. I also had never seen so much orange in one place at one time in my life. Stewart Friesen had a Jack Johnson throwback scheme, AJ Romano had Jack’s face on the side of his car, and the trophy had a bust of Jack on it. The entire thing was probably the most well put together special event I’ve ever seen in tribute to any Dirt Modified driver.

Well, after the track gave Jack’s son Ronnie a plaque during an emotional ceremony on victory lane everyone in attendance received and emotional yet exhilarating surprise. On the loudspeaker system you heard Jack Johnson himself. He thanked everyone for being there, for the support, and thanked DeLorenzo and Lakata for their efforts in putting the race together. And then, in one electrifying moment Jack gave the command, “Start Em’ Up!”

Fucking goosebumps! The place erupted into a deafening applause and the rest was racing history. The fact Jack was able to kick his ALS to the curb long enough to give his fans one final jolt of Jumper magic was amazing. I’m thankful I was able to be in attendance for that moment. Hearing about it is cool, but being there to experience it was a memory that lasts a lifetime.

Anyone who knew Jack has memories. If you ever interacted with him, served as crew on his race team, or as I did on occasion just sat in the shop and watched racing DVDs with him, you’d know he was a gentle giant among men. He’d tell stories about JoJo being locked in an enclosed hauler and Ronnie would tell tales of the trophy collection he has that belongs to his hall-of-fame father. A proud moment for Jack was celebrating RJ’s track title at Fonda in 2011, and I was glad to be there for that moment in time as well. Every memory in my time spent with Jack, Ronnie, Shelly, Nikki, Jeff, JoJo, Harold, Nat, just all of them are special to me from my racing experience.

As I concluded my call with Jeff Johnson last night, I still had those mixed emotions, but I told him with a chuckle, “Welp, every Fonda driver who passed before him just started tuning their heavenly powered Modifieds a little better with that nervous look in their eye. Jumpin’ Jack just rolled through the pearly gates.

Jeff replied, “And JoJo already has the car idling for him.”

My thoughts and prayers are with Jeff, Ronnie, Natalie, Shelly, Niki, and the entire Johnson family as they wish Jack one final farewell. It won’t be easy, but I hope you understand you all will forever have my admiration and my respect for what your family has done for our sport, starting for me when I was a just a kid cheering for my mother’s favorite Modified champion who she called Jumpin’ Jack Johnson.

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