04/02/26: Raelin Dunham turns laps at Albany-Saratoga Speedway during warm ups. She’ll be a NOTY contender during Season Three. (Photo By: Rocky Photography | RPW)
FONDA, NY – It’s not easy being the new driver in the field. Earning respect requires results fueled by effort, passion, and desire. For the incoming Newcomer Of The Year contenders chasing CDRA series hardware, their goals seem achievable. Show up, qualify, and finish every lap. If those goals are achieved they could vie for the L.D. Bossman and the NOTY this summer.
JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA series presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply has a pre-registered crop of NOTY contenders that declared their intent on racing full-time in 2026 with the tour by using the online driver registration tool. There’s plenty of info to dive into taking a look at these racers beginning with Lebanon Valley Speedway racer AJ Albreada.
This East Greenbush, NY racer was impressive in the valley of speed from his first green flag to his last checkered flag in 2025. He started the season winning two Limited races before moving up to Sportsman Modified where he had 13 top 10 finishes, 6 top 5 finishes, and a dub in 13 races. That landed him 7th in points, but if he ran a full season this talented shoe could’ve been on the podium.
Another NOTY contender from the valley of speed is young Cam VanZandt from Lee, MA. His schedule for 2026 is ambitious and includes racing at Albany-Saratoga, Lebanon Valley, DIRTcar tour, and CDRA. In 12 races last summer Cam had 11 top 10 finishes, 4 top 5’s, and 2 trips to victory lane. He’s young, hungry, and he’s not afraid of a challenge. Watch out for this kid.
Speaking of young guys who can park it as the kids say, keep an eye on Scotia, NY racer Bodie Marks. He’s another teen competitor with a stacked schedule for 2026 that also includes racing CDRA. He’ll contend for the NOTY and turned heads last season at Malta. In 16 races he had 14 top 10 finishes, 12 top 5’s, and 3 wins in Limited, and he was impressive in the Great Crate Classic.
Let’s stay at Albany-Saratoga for a moment and talk about one of the multiple lady racers who is not only moving up from Limited to Sportsman Modified, but challenging herself to the CDRA tour in 2026. We’re talking about Warrensburg, NY racer Jordan Hill. She had 11 top 10 finishes, 6 top 5’s, and a dub last season. Now, she’s ready to earn respect as not just a lady racer, but a racecar driver.
The buzz is real for Vermont racers coming to mix it up with CDRA’s finest starting with Salisbury, VT wheel man Brent Warren. He made it known he’s chasing the six-race tour through the Capital District while calling Albany-Saratoga his Friday night home. Last season in the green mountain state he had 6 top 10 finishes, 4 top 5’s, and a win. His first touring effort could land him the NOTY.
Bomoseen, VT racer Katrina Leclaire is ready to lead the lady contingent chasing CDRA hardware. She’s a fan favorite in the green mountain state who’s looking to make her name known in the Capital District. Last season she racked up 10 top 10 finishes, 8 top 5’s, and a win racing Saturday night weekly. Moving up to Sportsman Modified and touring for 2026 may result in a NOTY.
Another popular lady racer who will be a welcomed addition to CDRA is Queensbury, NY racer Raelin Dunham. Guiding her young career is Raelin’s father Paul Dunham Jr. who was a successful racer himself. She spent time last summer racing Novice, but instead of moving into Limited, which is another form of novice, she’s going Sportsman Modified touring and is plenty capable. Last summer she had 12 top 10 finishes, 8 top 5’s, and 2 wins finishing 4th in Saturday night points.
Last but not least, pre-registered racer from Gloversville, NY EJ Gallup is a NOTY contender. Gallup has a busy schedule preventing serious weekly commitment. He frequents Utica Rome and Glen Ridge, but a six-race series schedule suits him. Last season he entered a pair of CDRA events and scored two top 15 finishes. EJ has the skillset to vie for the NOTY honors in a stacked field.
More Newcomer Of The Year contenders may emerge as the season progresses this summer, but one thing is already certain; whomever claims the NOTY honors will have earned it. This will again be a storyline frequently talked about alongside the chase for the L.D. Bossman championship trophy. The most common advice for young racers or NOTY contenders; stick with it. Finish.
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: The season starts April 17, 2026, at Albany-Saratoga Speedway for CDRA racers. 25 laps for $1,300 to win on Malta’s 61st season opener. Also, on the race card are Super DIRTcar Series Big Block Modifieds and DIRTcar Pro Stocks. Limited Sportsman drivers are welcome to attempt to qualify and race in the Spring Shootout.
CDRA is a nostalgic throwback to CVRA days. Each season consists of a diverse schedule based around storied dirt tracks in the Capitaland such as Albany-Saratoga, Lebanon Valley, and Glen Ridge. Drivers who participate have the opportunity to earn hardware and monetary rewards for their efforts.
Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.
2026 CDRA POINTS PAYING EVENTS 04/17/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Spring Shootout w/SDS Big Block Tour 06/16/26 – Lebanon Valley Speedway | Mr. Crate Track USA w/SDS Big Block Tour 07/05/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | Montgomery County Brawl w/DIRTcar Sportsman Series 07/24/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Flying Trowel 32 w/Stan Da’ Man Night 08/09/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | Rumble At The Ridge w/DIRTcar Sportsman Series 09/25/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Great Crate Classic w/SDS 358 Modified & DIRTcar Sportsman On Malta Massive Weekend
Official Primary CDRA Marketing Partners For 2026 include: Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance & Consulting, and Elmo’s Speed Supply.
Official Associate CDRA Partners For 2026 Include: Hazilla Brands, SD Marketing and Designs LLC, Herrington Farms LLC, J-Tees Screen Printing, Bill McGaffin Photo, Jann McGaffin Photography, Showstopper Designs & Photography, Saratoga Masonry Supply, Stone’s Pharmacy, Race City Roll-Offs, TC Creations, and Final Reward Trophies.
Official Affiliate CDRA Partners For 2026 Include: DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, GM Performance 602 Crate Engines, Fox Racing Shocks, Beyea Custom Headers, Mad Skins Race Car Bodies, and Post Time Photography.
Official Media | Social Partners For 2026 Include: Area Auto Racing News, My Race Pass, DIRTvision, DTDtv, Race Pro Weekly, Dirt Track Digest, Race New York, and RPM-Race Pro Media.
Official CDRA Point Paying Event Titles For 2026 Include: Spring Shootout (ALB), Great Crate Classic – Malta Massive Weekend (ALB), Flying Trowel 32 (ALB), Montgomery County Brawl (GRMP), Rumble At The Ridge (GRMP), Mr. Crate Track USA (LVS), and Freedom & Fireworks (LVS).
Information shared about partners in Capital District Racing Association is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Info included but not limited to winner’s share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change.
For the latest news, results, point standings, and more about the CDRA Series presented by JAM Performance and Elmo’s Speed Supply, please visit http://www.cdraracing.com.
03/27/26: Sportsman Modified competitors race off turn four at Lebanon Valley Speedway, home to CDRA Crown Jewel PPE Mr. Crate Track USA. (Photo By: Lucas Ballard | RPW)
FONDA, NY – The 2025 JAM Performance CDRA Racing Series points championship presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply has a new twist for Season Three with the addition of two ‘Crown Jewel’ points paying events for drivers chasing the L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy in 2026.
CDRA Crown Jewel points paying events are races on the series schedule that will give drivers an opportunity to earn more points than in past seasons. While standard points awarded are 100 for the winner, 97 for second, and down by 1 point to last with 50 points awarded for DNS or DNQ competitors, Crown Jewel events are essentially double that.
Crown Jewel points paying events will be worth 200 points for the winner, 197 for second, and down by 1 point to last. Any competitor who does not qualify (DNQ) or is unable to start the main event (DNS) will be awarded 100 points.
“First, we must acknowledge that all tracks, Albany-Saratoga, Glen Ridge, and Lebanon are important to earning a series championship with CDRA,” competition director and series promoter Rob Hazer began.
He continued saying, “The main reason we made this distinction for 1/3 of our schedule was to have a heavier weighted race early in the season and one race weighted heavier at the back end of the season, with what we commonly call ‘the grind’ as the bulk of work competitors put in towards earning the L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy.”
By structuring a pair of PPE’s to be worth essentially double the points, it creates a larger separation naturally between series regulars and other competitors. However, the point differential within the distribution of points remains the same whether the race is valued at 100 to win or 200 to win. This means either scale, it’s only 25 points between 1st and 24th. This keeps the point chase tight.
“While all races are important on our schedule and we value all tracks involved, there’s two races the drivers talk about most and we listen. They talk about winning Mr. Crate Track USA and they want that Malta Massive Weekend winners’ belt, which we titled the Great Crate Classic,” concluded Rob Hazer.
The first Crown Jewel PPE for CDRA Sportsman Modified is at Lebanon Valley Speedway on June 16, 2026, during the Mr. Dirt Track Super DIRTcar Big Block Modified Series night.
The second Crown Jewel PPE for CDRA Sportsman Modified takes place at Albany-Saratoga Speedway on September 25, 2026, during Malta Massive Weekend with the Great Crate Classic. This race is also a DIRTcar Championship Sportsman race with a talented field expected.
Challenging the racers and keeping fans engaged in the point battle storylines is what CDRA is all about, and the addition of a championship point scale for Crown Jewel PPE’s on the six-race tour schedule does just that. Whoever earns the L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy named in honor of Malta’s late promoter Lyle DeVore, will have earned bragging rights as King Of The Capital District.
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: The season starts April 17, 2026, at Albany-Saratoga Speedway for CDRA racers. 25 laps for $1,300 to win on Malta’s 61st season opener. Also, on the race card are Super DIRTcar Series Big Block Modifieds and DIRTcar Pro Stocks. Limited Sportsman drivers are welcome to attempt to qualify and race in the Spring Shootout.
CDRA is a nostalgic throwback to CVRA days. Each season consists of a diverse schedule based around storied dirt tracks in the Capitaland such as Albany-Saratoga, Lebanon Valley, and Glen Ridge. Drivers who participate have the opportunity to earn hardware and monetary rewards for their efforts.
Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.
2026 CDRA POINTS PAYING EVENTS 04/17/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Spring Shootout w/SDS Big Block Tour 06/16/26 – Lebanon Valley Speedway | Mr. Crate Track USA w/SDS Big Block Tour 07/05/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | Montgomery County Brawl w/DIRTcar Sportsman Series 07/24/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Flying Trowel 32 w/Stan Da’ Man Night 08/09/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | Rumble At The Ridge w/DIRTcar Sportsman Series 09/25/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Great Crate Classic w/SDS 358 Modified & DIRTcar Sportsman On Malta Massive Weekend
Official Primary CDRA Marketing Partners For 2026 include: Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance & Consulting, and Elmo’s Speed Supply.
Official Associate CDRA Partners For 2026 Include: Hazilla Brands, SD Marketing and Designs LLC, Herrington Farms LLC, J-Tees Screen Printing, Bill McGaffin Photo, Jann McGaffin Photography, Showstopper Designs & Photography, Saratoga Masonry Supply, Stone’s Pharmacy, TC Creations, and Final Reward Trophies.
Official Affiliate CDRA Partners For 2026 Include: DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, GM Performance 602 Crate Engines, Fox Racing Shocks, Beyea Custom Headers, Mad Skins Race Car Bodies, and Post Time Photography.
Official Media | Social Partners For 2026 Include: Area Auto Racing News, My Race Pass, DIRTvision, DTDtv, Race Pro Weekly, Dirt Track Digest, Race New York, and RPM-Race Pro Media.
Official CDRA Point Paying Event Titles For 2026 Include: Spring Shootout (ALB), Great Crate Classic – Malta Massive Weekend (ALB), Flying Trowel 32 (ALB), Montgomery County Brawl (GRMP), Rumble At The Ridge (GRMP), Mr. Crate Track USA (LVS), and Freedom & Fireworks (LVS).
Information shared about partners in Capital District Racing Association is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Info included but not limited to winner’s share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change.
For the latest news, results, point standings, and more about the CDRA Series presented by JAM Performance and Elmo’s Speed Supply, please visit http://www.cdraracing.com.
03/04/26: L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy signifies a drivers strength to succeed and courage to battle all challenges in pursuit of title town. (CDRA Graphic | cdraracing.com)
FONDA, NY – When spring rolls around and brisk mornings give way to summer sunrises, it means only one thing. From April to October in the Capital District, a new racing season will present multiple Sportsman Modified drivers an opportunity to earn hardware. One piece of hardware unquestionably to be coveted by drivers will soon be the L.D. Bossman Championship trophy.
Lyle DeVore was an inspirational titan in the dirt track racing community. His talents as race promoter were on display every weekend in the Capital District serving as General Manager at Lebanon Valey Speedway for many years, and his proudest accomplishment as track promoter at Albany-Saratoga Speedway for the past 14 seasons.
DeVore often went above and beyond the call of duty as promoter to forge relationships earning the respect of his peers, and mentoring those who were willing to listen. After all, what good is a wealth of knowledge if not shared with those fortunate enough to learn from a master of track promotion and preparation.
One of those fortunate individuals was CDRA founder and competition director Rob Hazer. After reaching out to DeVore back in 2013 to work on a project for the Sportsman Modified division through mutual friend and racer Scott Duell, the Northeast Crate Nationals became the first premiere event for the division in the area experiencing much success.
“My time knowing Lyle wasn’t as long as some, but to me it was just as valuable. I realized early on I had a lot to learn, and I got that vibe he was just the kind of no-nonsense guy who could teach me. If he liked the idea he’d say so, and if he didn’t think it was a good idea, he’d also say so. I like that kind of honesty and we clicked,” began CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.
From there DeVore encouraged and helped nurture multiple projects spearheaded by Hazer in the Capital District most notably the Nationals and King Of Dirt racing (KOD).
“The Nationals grew big. The year we hit 70 cars entered Lyle and I were really happy. And looking back his encouragement to launch KOD meant a lot. With his mentorship we grew that brand to something Capital District racers looked forward to, continued Rob Hazer.
He followed that by saying, “Sadly, I had to let it go as my health was fading at the end of the 2018 season and I was burnt out. But I did try to reacquire the brand prior to the 2026 season, as the brand just sits dormant currently. KOD means a lot to me. And in hindsight it meant a lot to Lyle as well. I’ll continue to see if we can reacquire it for the future.”
Lyle DeVore exhibited the passion and drive to succeed and his leadership as Albany-Saratoga Speedway promoter was rewarded with not one, but two National RPM Auto Racing Promoter Of The Year awards followed by his induction into the Northeast Dirt Modified Hall Of Fame.
DeVore was a friend, mentor, and supporter of projects Rob Hazer brainstormed. CDRA included. It was set up vastly different than KOD, however achieved the same result. In a short time CDRA has created a buzz among Sportsman Modified racers in the Capital District, and part of that success belongs to the man whose name will adorn the championship hardware going forward.
Season Three of the JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA racing series presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply will feature the L.D. Bossman Championship trophy in honor of series friend and mentor Lyle DeVore.
“When Lyle passed back in December, it hit me hard as I’m sure it did many. Not only did he mentor me in the business of racing and promotion, but he was a friend. He visited me in the hospital before, always asked how I was doing, even asked how my family was doing,” said Rob Hazer.
He continued to elaborate saying, “Over the years there were some vulnerable moments he shared with me like when his father Stan passed, so we had Old No. 32 brand t-shirts for the Nationals one year and the Flying Trowel is a points paying race for CDRA. Beyond being a great promoter, he was a solid human being. I’ll miss him greatly.”
When the idea of naming the championship trophy came about, Rob Hazer began explaining by saying, “I wanted to do something that would honor him in the way Vince Lombardi was honored with his name on the NFL championship trophy. My nickname for him was ‘bossman’ and I called him that since I’ve known him. The LD is for his name.”
He concluded by saying, “I’m grateful for Marcy and Mia giving me their blessing to honor the ‘bossman’ in such a way. I hope he’s looking down, in peace, and proud knowing he touched many lives including mine. I know for sure, he’s proud of Marcy, Mia, Carole, Glenda, and everyone that is carrying on his legacy. This season is for Lyle, and every champion going forward will earn a championship trophy that carries his name.”
The L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy will portray the strength it takes to succeed and the courage it takes to battle even the most uphill challenges. Both displayed by Lyle DeVore in his pursuit of promotional success and his never quit approach to battling cancer.
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: The season starts April 17, 2026 at Albany-Saratoga Speedway for CDRA racers. 25 laps for $1,300 to win on Malta’s 61st season opener. Before that, its car show season starting with the annual Lance & Jill Sharpe Motorsports promotion at the Colonie Center Mall featuring racers from Lebanon Valley, Albany-Saratoga, and more.
CDRA is a nostalgic throwback to CVRA days. Each season consists of a diverse schedule based around storied dirt tracks in the Capitaland such as Albany-Saratoga, Lebanon Valley, and Glen Ridge. Drivers who participate have the opportunity to earn hardware and monetary rewards for their efforts.
Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.
2026 CDRA POINTS PAYING EVENTS 04/17/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Spring Shootout w/SDS Big Block Tour 06/16/26 – Lebanon Valley Speedway | Mr. Crate Track USA w/SDS Big Block Tour 07/05/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | Montgomery County Brawl w/DIRTcar Sportsman Series 07/24/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Flying Trowel 32 w/Stan Da’ Man Night 08/09/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | Rumble At The Ridge w/DIRTcar Sportsman Series 09/25/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Great Crate Classic w/SDS 358 Modified & DIRTcar Sportsman On Malta Massive Weekend
Official Primary CDRA Marketing Partners For 2026 include: Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance & Consulting, and Elmo’s Speed Supply.
Official Associate CDRA Partners For 2026 Include: Hazilla Brands, SD Marketing and Designs LLC, Herrington Farms LLC, J-Tees Screen Printing, Bill McGaffin Photo, Jann McGaffin Photography, Showstopper Designs & Photography, Saratoga Masonry Supply, Stone’s Pharmacy, TC Creations, and Final Reward Trophies.
Official Affiliate CDRA Partners For 2026 Include: DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, GM Performance 602 Crate Engines, Fox Racing Shocks, Beyea Custom Headers, Mad Skins Race Car Bodies, and Post Time Photography.
Official Media | Social Partners For 2026 Include: Area Auto Racing News, My Race Pass, DIRTvision, DTDtv, Race Pro Weekly, Dirt Track Digest, Race New York, and RPM-Race Pro Media.
Official CDRA Point Paying Event Titles For 2026 Include: Spring Shootout (ALB), Great Crate Classic – Malta Massive Weekend (ALB), Flying Trowel 32 (ALB), Montgomery County Brawl (GRMP), Rumble At The Ridge (GRMP), Mr. Crate Track USA (LVS), and Freedom & Fireworks (LVS).
Information shared about partners in Capital District Racing Association is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Info included but not limited to winner’s share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change.
For the latest news, results, point standings, and more about the CDRA Series presented by JAM Performance and Elmo’s Speed Supply, please visit http://www.cdraracing.com.
02/15/26: Field ready for competition for 2025 Rumble At The Ridge DIRTcar Sportsman / CDRA points paying race at Glen Ridge. (Bill McGaffin Photo | CDRA)
FONDA, NY – When Capital District tracks Albany-Saratoga, Glen Ridge, and Lebanon Valley roar to life this spring part of their racing season will include points paying events on the road to crown the 2026 JAM Performance CDRA racing series points champion presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply.
With only six points paying events each summer, every lap of every race matters. In Season Three (2026) something new to the points structure makes one third of the aforementioned six races worth ‘crown jewel’ points where two races offer drivers an opportunity to score more points.
Starting and ending the CDRA points season at the great race place Albany-Saratoga Speedway was something late track promoter Lyle DeVore enjoyed. Throw in a tribute to his father Stan Da’ Man and drivers have a trio of action-packed races on a high speed 4/10-mile dirt track gem located in Malta, NY.
On April 17, 2026, CDRA kicks off the points chase during Albany-Saratoga’s 61st season opening celebration. The early race at Malta has been titled Spring Shootout, which Chris Jakubiak won in 2025. In 2024 there were twin Spring Shootout features won by Tim Hartman Jr. and Chris Crane Jr.
The second points paying event for CDRA racers at Albany-Saratoga takes place during Stan Da’ Man night with the Flying Trowel 32 on July 24, 2026. Last season marked the first time a third PPE was added to the schedule from the great race place, and it was won by a red-hot Tim Hartman Jr.
Malta Massive weekend is a big one on the schedule for Capital District Sportsman Modified racers. These drivers want that race winning belt. It serves as the Great Crate Classic, which is a CDRA points paying event. It also features the DIRTcar Sportsman Championship series points event.
The Great Crate Classic, preceded by the Northeast Crate Nationals at Albany-Saratoga, will for the first time be a ‘Crown Jewel’ points paying event on September 25, 2026. Simply put, regular series races are 100 for a win, 97 for second, down by one to last. Crown Jewel events are 200 for a win, 197 for second, down by one.
Speaking of ‘Crown Jewel’ points paying events, the only other on the 2026 CDRA racing schedule happens early and it’s a popular one among drivers. On June 16, 2026, on the high banks in the valley of speed, Lebanon Valley Speedway has Super DIRTcar Series Big Block Modifieds in town which means Mr. Crate Track USA is in order.
Mr. Crate Track USA is a play on words off the main event for the Super DIRTcar Series Mr. Dirt Track event. There wasn’t a more perfect way to support such a big event, especially with it being earlier in the season for 2026. It will be a ‘Crown Jewel’ points paying event for CDRA Sportsman Modifieds.
It was previously won by Tim Hartman Jr. in 2025, however other winners do include Rob Maxon (2018), Michael Sabia (2017), Scott Duell (2016), and Michael Sabia (2015).
Each track plays a pivotal part in challenging drivers who want to earn a CDRA championship, and Glen Ridge Motorsports Park fits in perfectly. Albany-Saratoga has high speeds while racing like a short track, Lebanon Valley is a wide-open high bank adrenaline rush, and the Ridge is an elbows up reaction challenging madhouse of a quarter mile.
Glen Ridge is the race place drivers grind out their best finishes to increase their chances at a points championship. First visit to the fastest quarter mile on dirt is July 5, 2026, for the Montgomery County Brawl, which is also part of the DIRTcar Sportsman East Region for points. Previous winners of this event include Taylor Wason (2025) and Cody Ochs (2024).
CDRA returns to the ridge on August 9, 2026, for a second visit during the summer with the annual Rumble At The Ridge points paying event. This race will also serve as a DIRTcar Sportsman points event. Previous winners of the Rumble include Gavin Eisele (2025) and Zach Buff (2024).
“This year is going to be exciting. We have a great crop of drivers who are going to chase,” began CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.
He continued, “It’s going to feel a little different without Lyle DeVore’s guidance. He was a friend, a mentor, and a titan in this sport. But I can promise you, his legacy is in good hands with Marcy, Mia, and Pete making sure his vision comes to light.”
“I want to thank Marcy, Pete, and Mia from Albany-Saratoga. They’re going through a difficult transition without the bossman, but they’re doing it fabulously. I must thank Ron at Lebanon Valley also for keeping us in mind on the high banks, and Alicia and Ray at Glen Ridge. We’re all working together to put something on for racers,” Hazer spoke candidly.
He concluded by saying, “We’ll be releasing the new name of our championship trophy. It’ll be something that captures and embodies what Lyle stood for. That was important for me to do in his honor, and I owe Marcy a heartfelt thank you for allowing me to do that for the bossman.”
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: The season starts April 17, 2026 at Albany-Saratoga Speedway for CDRA racers. 25 laps for $1,300 to win on Malta’s 61st season opener. Before that, it’s car show season.
CDRA is a nostalgic throwback to CVRA days. Each season consists of a diverse schedule based around storied dirt tracks in the Capitaland such as Albany-Saratoga, Lebanon Valley, and Glen Ridge. Drivers who participate have the opportunity to earn hardware and monetary rewards for their efforts.
Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.
2026 CDRA POINTS PAYING EVENTS 04/17/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Spring Shootout w/SDS Big Block Tour 06/16/26 – Lebanon Valley Speedway | Mr. Crate Track USA w/SDS Big Block Tour 07/05/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | Montgomery County Brawl w/DIRTcar Sportsman Series 07/24/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Flying Trowel 32 w/Stan Da’ Man Night 08/09/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | Rumble At The Ridge w/DIRTcar Sportsman Series 09/25/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Great Crate Classic w/SDS 358 Modified & DIRTcar Sportsman On Malta Massive Weekend
Official Primary CDRA Marketing Partners For 2026 include: Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance & Consulting, and Elmo’s Speed Supply.
Official Associate CDRA Partners For 2026 Include: Hazilla Brands, SD Marketing and Designs LLC, Herrington Farms LLC, J-Tees Screen Printing, Bill McGaffin Photo, Jann McGaffin Photography, Showstopper Designs & Photography, Stone’s Pharmacy, TC Creations, and Final Reward Trophies.
Official Affiliate CDRA Partners For 2026 Include: DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, GM Performance 602 Crate Engines, Fox Racing Shocks, Beyea Custom Headers, Mad Skins Race Car Bodies, and Post Time Photography.
Official Media | Social Partners For 2026 Include: Area Auto Racing News, My Race Pass, DIRTvision, DTDtv, Race Pro Weekly, Dirt Track Digest, Race New York, and RPM-Race Pro Media.
Official CDRA Point Paying Event Titles For 2026 Include: Spring Shootout (ALB), Great Crate Classic – Malta Massive Weekend (ALB), Flying Trowel 32 (ALB), Montgomery County Brawl (GRMP), Rumble At The Ridge (GRMP), Mr. Crate Track USA (LVS), and Freedom & Fireworks (LVS).
Information shared about partners in Capital District Racing Association is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Info included but not limited to winner’s share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change.
For the latest news, results, point standings, and more about the CDRA Series presented by JAM Performance and Elmo’s Speed Supply, please visit http://www.cdraracing.com.
09/19/25: Connor Crane and family celebrate his Malta Massive Weekend win in the Great Crate Classic at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. (Jann McGaffin Photo | CDRA 2025)
(Written By Mike Warren | Additional Information By #Rob Hazer) MALTA, NY – One year after finishing second to his brother during Malta Massive Weekend, Connor Crane was one spot better on Friday night at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. The Canaan, CT driver outdueled Richard Murtaugh in the closing laps to score his first career DIRTcar Sportsman Series victory.
(#: Winning the Great Crate Race was also Connor Crane’s first career CDRA points paying win.)
Track regular Dylan Madsen led the field to the green in the 35-lap Feature, driving away from Crane in the race’s opening laps. The Spencertown, NY driver held the advantage throughout the first half of the race, as Crane held off early challenges from Murtaugh for second.
That battle lasted until Lap 13, when Murtaugh’s momentum on the outside lane was too much for Crane, as he powered his No. 33 past Crane for second. That happened as Madsen started catching lap traffic, allowing Murtaugh and Crane to catch Madsen out front.
Murtaugh’s first opportunity to take the lead came on Lap 19, when he nosed ahead of Madsen’s No. 89 on the backstretch. Madsen countered immediately, though, sliding in front of Murtaugh to keep the lead as they exited Turn 4. However, Madsen’s lead was short-lived, as Murtaugh kept his momentum rolling on the top, driving by Madsen on the outside lane to take the lead on Lap 22.
Behind Murtaugh, Crane followed on the inside, taking second away from Madsen. As Murtaugh pulled away, a yellow on Lap 28 for Savannah Laflair slowed the field for the second time, giving Crane another shot at the win.
When the race resumed, Murtaugh continued his pace on the outside, but Crane stayed with the DIRTcar Sportsman Series full-time competitor as they battled for the lead. Crane took his first chance to pass Murtaugh on Lap 30, sliding in front of him in Turn 4. But it wasn’t enough that time, as Murtaugh drove by him again on the bottom.
Crane wouldn’t be stopped, though. As the two drivers exited Turn 4 on Lap 31, Crane threw another slide job at Murtaugh to take the lead as they crossed the start/finish line. Murtaugh returned the favor in Turns 1 and 2, sliding Crane as they drove through the corner, but Crane’s momentum was too much as he pulled ahead of Murtaugh again.
That was all Crane needed as he led the final two laps to win the 35-lap Feature.
(#: Murtaugh crossed the line second, with Emmett Waldron, Gavin Eisele, and Chris Crane Jr. rounding out the top five.)
“I just have to thank Richard for running me clean,” Crane said. “That was awesome. I can’t believe I’m here after last year, when my brother passed me with like 10 to go. I can’t believe I did it.
“This track is awesome. This is the best place to be in the Northeast,” he concluded.
Murtaugh settled for second in only his third appearance at the track. He said even with the lead, his lack of experience played a role in relinquishing the lead at the end of the race.
“I knew he was better on the bottom,” Murtaugh said. “When I went into Turn 1, I looked over and saw him. It’s my third time ever here, so I didn’t really know what to do. I was just kind of ripping the top. Once he got under me, I didn’t think he’d slide me, and once he did, I was like, what do I do now?”
Emmett Waldron crossed the line third, earning back-to-back Series top fives. The Savannah, NY driver said that while he had a good car, he still needed to start up front.
“This car is really good,” Waldron said. “We just need to start more toward the front more. We finally made a redraw in one of these Series races. We’ve been starting 11th and 12th, and it’s so hard to get to the front in these crate cars.”
(#: DIRTcar) Series points leader Shane Pecore finished ninth, extending his lead to nine points over Tristan Ladouceur, who finished 11th.
CDRA NOTES: With his win at Malta Massive Weekend in the Great Crate Race, Canaan, CT racer Connor Crane jumped up to 6th in final point standings. Despite his points earned, he will be eligible for Newcomer Of The Year again in 2026 per rule. NOTY award winner Nick Brundige of Round Lake, NY was able to utilize home track advantage to take third in points away from young gun Tavien Blowers from Caroga Lake, NY. Final note, Derrick McGrew Jr. broke the three-way tie between himself, Alex Palmer-Sawyer, and Michal Wagner-Fitzgerald by qualifying for the main event and finishing 8th overall in final point standings.
CDRA TITLE WATCH: Tough break for defending champion Taylor Wason from Middlegrove, NY as mechanical failure sidelined him about midway through the race. Glenville, NY hot shoe Tim Hartman Jr. raced from 20th to 10th to secure his first CDRA championship and earned the Big Red One Hard Charger race award in honor of Jason Herrington.
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: Next up for CDRA are the annual Honors awards, which will be released December 19th just one week before Christmas. They include honoring the Champion Tim Hartman Jr., Newcomer Of The Year (NOTY) Nick Brundige, the Driver Of The Year (DOTY), Outstanding Performance Of The Year (OPTY), Fan Favorite Of The Year (FOTY), Honorable Mentions Of The Year (HOTY), and the top 10 drivers in final point standings.
CDRA is a nostalgic throwback to the CVRA days. A series designed specifically for Capital District racing. Season two schedule consists of a diverse schedule at storied dirt tracks like the great race place, the fastest quarter mile on dirt, and the valley of speed. Drivers who do travel the Capitaland will earn hardware and some green for their efforts.
J-Tees Screen Printing Fast Timer: Richard Murtaugh III (16.553) Big Red One Hard Charger: Tim Hartman Jr. (20th to 10th) Newcomer of the Race: Connor Crane (1st) Lap Leaders: Dylan Madsen (1-21), Richard Murtaugh III (21-31), & Connor Crane (32-35) Outstanding Performance: Connor Crane (1st) Who Finished Fifth: Chris Crane Jr.
2025 CDRA POINT RACE SCHEDULE 04/18/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Spring Showdown | Winner: Chris Jakubiak 07/25/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Flying Trowel 32 | Winner: Tim Hartman Jr. 08/03/25 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | Rumble At The Ridge | Winner: Gavin Eisele 08/10/25 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | Montgomery County Brawl | Winner: Taylor Wason 08/28/25 – Lebanon Valley Speedway | Mr. Crate Track USA | Winner: Tim Hartman Jr. 09/19/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Malta Massive Weekend | Winner: Connor Crane
Official Primary CDRA Marketing Partners For 2025 include: Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply.
Official Associate CDRA Partners For 2025 Include: Fox Racing Shox, SD Marketing and Designs LLC, Herrington Farms LLC, J-Tees Screen Printing, McGaffin Family Photography, and Final Reward Trophies.
Official Affiliate CDRA Partners For 2025 Include: DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, GM Performance 602 Crate Engines, Mad Skins Race Car Bodies, Cordova Plumbing & Heating, Bart Contracting, Hayes Trucking & Excavating, New Deals Used Cars, Joe Wilkinson & Sons Excavating, County Waste, and Doug Wholey Ideal Excavation.
Official Media | Social Partners For 2025 Include: Area Auto Racing News, Hazilla Brands, My Race Pass, DIRTvision, DTDtv, Race Pro Weekly, Dirt Track Digest, Race New York, Doug’s Dirt Diary.
Official CDRA Race Titles For 2025 Include: Sportsman Modified Spring Showdown (ALB), Montgomery County Brawl (GRMP), Flying Trowel 32 (ALB), Rumble At The Ridge (GRMP), Mr. Crate Track USA (LVS), and Great Crate Classic – Malta Massive Weekend (ALB).
Information shared about partners in Capital District Racing Association is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Info included but not limited to winner’s share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change.
For the latest news, results, point standings, and more about the CDRA Series presented by JAM Performance and Elmo’s Speed Supply, please visit http://www.cdraracing.com.
09/19/25: 4-wide for position during the Flying Trowel 32 at Albany-Saratoga Speedway back in July. Tonight CDRA season concludes with the Great Crate Race at the Malta, NY facility. (Jeremy McGaffin Photo | CDRA 2025)
MALTA, NY – The time has finally come for the most anticipated weekend of racing in the Capital District with the running of Malta Massive Weekend at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. Tonight, at the great race place JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA series presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply crowns the Season Two champion. But there are other stories to be told with this evening’s results.
Albany-Saratoga Speedway plays host to the CDRA racing series for the fifth time tonight, and the second running of what has become known as the ‘Great Crate Classic’ run in conjunction with the DIRTcar Sportsman Fall Championship series. This will present a stacked field of highly talented competitors between Capitaland hot shoes, and DIRTcar top guns.
Tonight’s running of the Great Crate Classic has many storylines that will unfold starting with the championship battle, which will be decided between Glenville, NY racer Tim Hartman Jr. and defending champion racer Taylor Wason from Middlegrove, NY. They are separated by 28 points heading into the 35-lap, $1,500 to win main event.
Behind the front running pair is a point battle for third in standings between Caroga Lake, NY young gun Tavien Blowers, and Newcomer Of The Year Nick Brundige from Round Lake, NY. Blowers holds a nine-point advantage, but Brundige calls Malta home on Friday nights. Navigating the DIRTcar Sportsman series talent will be challenging for these men, but someone will own the spot.
Zach Buff is safely in fifth in points for this season, so the next interesting storyline to follow is the log jam to round out the top 10 in point standings. Connor Crane currently holds 6th with a 14-point lead over seventh Alex Palmer-Sawyer. APS is tied with Derrick McGrew Jr. and Michael Wagner-Fitzgerald with 269 points. To make it more interesting, Chris Crane Jr. is just 2 points behind them. There could be a wild change from sixth all the way back to tenth in final points.
Last season, Chris Crane Jr. picked up the win in the Great Crate Classic at Albany-Saratoga Speedway during Malta Massive Weekend, which was also part of the DIRTcar Sportsman Fall Championship Series. Connor Crane, Cody McPherson, Derrick McGrew Jr., and Emmett Waldron rounded out the top five.
“Tonight is the season two finale. It’s been a great season. We (CDRA) are growing, and drivers have been great in their support. We’re here for the drivers of the Capital District. Whoever wins the title this season, it’s been a good battle. Wason defended his title honorably, and there was no doubt Timmy would be in contention. And how about these young guys like Blowers and Brundige. I’m proud of them for grinding out the six race schedule over the summer months and being in good position to earn recognition for their efforts,” said CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: With the season of points paying races concluding at Albany-Saratoga with the Great Crate Classic, focus shifts to the CDRA Honors on Friday December 19, 2025. Awards will recognize top 10 in final point standings, as well as awarding season honors including Champion, Driver Of The Year (DOTY), Newcomer Of The Year (NOTY), Outstanding Performance (OPTY), and Honorable Mentions. Also, Honors will introduce the Fan Favorite (FOTY) to be determined by voting prior to the December date.
CDRA is a nostalgic throwback to the CVRA days. A series designed specifically for Capital District racing. Season two schedule consists of a diverse schedule at storied dirt tracks like the great race place, the fastest quarter mile on dirt, and the valley of speed. Drivers who do travel the Capitaland will earn hardware and some green for their efforts.
Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.
2025 CDRA POINT RACE SCHEDULE 04/18/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Spring Showdown ✔ 07/25/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Flying Trowel 32 ✔ 08/03/25 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | Rumble At The Ridge ✔ 08/10/25 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | Montgomery County Brawl ✔ 08/28/25 – Lebanon Valley Speedway | Mr. Crate Track USA ✔ 09/19/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Great Crate Classic
Official Primary CDRA Marketing Partners For 2025 include: Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply.
Official Associate CDRA Partners For 2025 Include: Fox Racing Shox, SD Marketing and Designs LLC, Herrington Farms LLC, J-Tees Screen Printing, McGaffin Family Photography, and Final Reward Trophies.
Official Affiliate CDRA Partners For 2025 Include: DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, GM Performance 602 Crate Engines, Mad Skins Race Car Bodies, Cordova Plumbing & Heating, Bart Contracting, Hayes Trucking & Excavating, New Deals Used Cars, Joe Wilkinson & Sons Excavating, County Waste, and Doug Wholey Ideal Excavation.
Official Media | Social Partners For 2025 Include: Area Auto Racing News, Hazilla Brands, My Race Pass, DIRTvision, DTDtv, Race Pro Weekly, Dirt Track Digest, Race New York, Doug’s Dirt Diary.
Official CDRA Race Titles For 2025 Include: Sportsman Modified Spring Showdown (ALB), Montgomery County Brawl (GRMP), Flying Trowel 32 (ALB), Rumble At The Ridge (GRMP), Mr. Crate Track USA (LVS), and Great Crate Classic – Malta Massive Weekend (ALB).
Information shared about partners in Capital District Racing Association is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Info included but not limited to winner’s share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change.
For the latest news, results, point standings, and more about the CDRA Series presented by JAM Performance and Elmo’s Speed Supply, please visit http://www.cdraracing.com.
08/21/25: Nick Brundige during hot laps at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. (Erin Rockafellow Photo | RPW 2025)
ROUND LAKE, NY – Nick Brundige is a blue-collar racer with limited experience in the driver’s seat of an open wheel Sportsman Modified. After just one season of Limited racing, he challenged himself to move up, and chase more seat time. In doing so he’s top five in CDRA racing points and in position to earn Newcomer Of The Year honors.
Efficiently known as the NOTY, it’s one of the top honors the JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA racing series presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply offers at seasons end. Currently, the Round Lake, NY racer leads fellow competitors Derrick McGrew Jr. and Michael Wagner-Fitzgerld for the honors.
What do race fans know about Nick Brundige? He’s not a household name just yet, but he’s working on building a name for himself and carrying on the family legacy in dirt track racing. His father DJ Brundige was a pretty good wheelman himself, so it was just natural Nick would find interest in following in dear old dad’s footsteps.
“I had never raced anything of my own before other than a friends go kart a couple of times until I started racing Sportsman last year,” Brundige began saying.
He continued with, “Growing up I was always going to Malta to watch my dad race. My grandfather raced too. But we’d travel to places like Devil’s Bowl and Glen Ridge also, so they were naturally favorite racers of mine. And a big reason I got involved in racing.”
During CDRA Season One (2024) Nick Brundige made two starts out of the six scheduled events, with his best finish being 19th during Malta Massive Weekend at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. It was worth 25th in overall points, which wasn’t bad for a Limited Sportsman regular competing among 108 drivers who earned points during the year.
Flash forward to CDRA Season Two (2025) and how things can change in a year. Brundige is currently 4th in series points in the thick of a title chase with the likes of Tim Hartman Jr., defending champion Taylor Wason, Glen Ridge champion Zach Buff, and Tavien Blowers. He’s coming off his best series finish to date of 4th and has a win in weekly racing at Malta.
His car number is 916, which his pops ran back in the day, but how many know that’s actually Nick’s birthday. And goals? He’s got goals that include one day maybe getting an opportunity to wheel a DIRTcar Big Block Modified.
“My goal is to one day have the experience and backing to get a Modified ride together. At some point in the future, when I feel I’m ready,” said Brunidge.
No question this young man has the passion to succeed. He’s got a fire burning inside to prove to his family, friends, and himself that he can race competitively on a consistent basis. For now, Nick is grateful for the opportunity to run his family-owned race rods around the Capital District.
“I would like to thank my sponsors Capital District Towing, along with Halfmoon Evergreen Property Maintenance, and Miller Motorsports. Their help is crucial to keeping us at the track,” Brundige said.
He concluded by saying, “I can’t forget to thank my dad for everything. His belief in me means the world. And I also can’t forget to thank my girlfriend, Riley. Everything she does to help with the car preparing for raceday and on raceday means a lot.”
For more information on Nick’s racing endeavors in and around the Capital District visit Brundige Family Racing on Social Media or see them weekly at Albany-Saratoga Speedway.
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: The series heads to West Lebanon, NY for a big show at Lebanon Valley Speedway on Thursday August 28th. CDRA will be part of the Mr. Dirt Track Super DIRTcar Big Block Modified Series event with the highly anticipated return of Mr. Crate Track USA.
CDRA is a nostalgic throwback to the CVRA days. A series designed specifically for Capital District racing. Season two schedule consists of a diverse schedule at storied dirt tracks like the great race place, the fastest quarter mile on dirt, and the valley of speed. Drivers who do travel the Capitaland will earn hardware and some green for their efforts.
Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.
2025 CDRA POINT RACE SCHEDULE 04/18/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway ✔ 07/25/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway ✔ 06/01/25 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park ✔ 08/03/25 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park ✔ 08/28/25 – Lebanon Valley Speedway 09/19/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway
Official Primary CDRA Marketing Partners For 2025 include: Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply.
Official Associate CDRA Partners For 2025 Include: Fox Racing Shox, SD Marketing and Designs LLC, Herrington Farms LLC, J-Tees Screen Printing, McGaffin Family Photography, and Final Reward Trophies.
Official Affiliate CDRA Partners For 2025 Include: DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, GM Performance 602 Crate Engines, Mad Skins Race Car Bodies, Cordova Plumbing & Heating, Bart Contracting, Hayes Trucking & Excavating, New Deals Used Cars, Joe Wilkinson & Sons Excavating, County Waste, and Doug Wholey Ideal Excavation.
Official Media | Social Partners For 2025 Include: Area Auto Racing News, Hazilla Brands, My Race Pass, DIRTvision, DTDtv, Race Pro Weekly, Dirt Track Digest, Race New York, Doug’s Dirt Diary.
Official CDRA Race Titles For 2025 Include: Sportsman Modified Spring Showdown (ALB), Montgomery County Brawl (GRMP), Flying Trowel 32 (ALB), Rumble At The Ridge (GRMP), Mr. Crate Track USA (LVS), and Great Crate Classic – Malta Massive Weekend (ALB).
Information shared about partners in Capital District Racing Association is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Info included but not limited to winner’s share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change.
For the latest news, results, point standings, and more about the CDRA Series presented by JAM Performance and Elmo’s Speed Supply, please visit http://www.cdraracing.com.
07/25/25: Tim Hartman Jr. (22) races with Alex Palmer-Sawyer for podium finishing positions during the Flying Trowel 32 CDRA points paying race at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. (Bill McGaffin Photo | CDRA 2025)
MALTA, NY – It took ‘Big Time Little Tim’ 22-laps and a late race restart to hunt down leader Drew Cormie, toss the kitchen sink at him, and take the win in Friday night’s Flying Trowel 32 Sportsman Modified feature. It was part of a special night for the DeVore family honoring Stan Da’ Man and it was also Tim Hartman Jr’s third career CDRA points paying victory.
Argyle, NY racer Drew Cormie and Clifton Park, NY racer Nick Lussier led the 29-car starting field to the green flag, with Cormie taking a commanding lead with his Versatile Glass & Service number 667. That left Lussier to fend for second battling early with a hard charging Jon Miller in his Lazzaro’s Auto Body number 12.
Speaking of charging hard, Tim Hartman Jr. started 8th with his Parillo owned Kick Fly’s Quality Hemp products Cyclone chassis number 22 and wasted little time passing two cars consisting of Jeff Washburn’s R. Bowles Heating & Plumbing 18 car and David Baronowski driving Peckham Motorsports number 112.
Yellow flag waived on lap 2 when the Stone’s Pharmacy 27 of Michael Ballestero of Saratoga Springs, NY suffered a flat right rear tire. That would tighten the field back up for a restart where Cambridge, NY racer Alex Palmer-Sawyer started his career best night by moving his Nadeau’s Concrete 61 car past Next Generation Roofing racer Chad Gregory for 4th position.
A wild 4-wide battle broke out with racers Connor Crane of Canaan, CT, Craig Wholey of Bolton Landing, NY, point leader Chris Jakubiak of Ballston Spa, NY and Elliott Lussier of Halfmoon, NY. That battle was cut short by the yellow flag waving once again, this time for Next Generation Roofing racer Derrick McGrew Jr. who was facing the wrong direction on top of turn two.
Before the green could fly, the aforementioned Jon Miller had a heartbreaking end to his 2nd place run when his left rear wheel fell off on the back stretch. When the green did fly Hartman began his charge to the front chasing down Cormie who led from the start. Behind them current CDRA point leader Jakubiak was battling with defending series champion Taylor Wason of Middlegrove, NY.
Hartman battled with Palmer-Sawyer for a handful of laps, used a lap 22 caution to his advantage, and never looked back earning his second Stan Da’ Man night victory winning the Flying Trowel 32. Cormie had crossed the line 2nd, but was light at the scales. That moved Palmer-Sawyer to 2nd, Jakubiak to 3rd, with Baronowski 4th, and Amsterdam, NY racer Zach Buff making his way to 5th.
“It’s good to win some extra money. Thanks to the track for putting on an event like this,” Hartman said in victory lane. He continued saying, “Track was great, car was great. Drew ran a great race and was hard to catch. We’re lucky we had that restart late so I could throw the kitchen sink at him and get in front of him.”
Rounding out the top ten finishers were Canaan, CT racer Chris Crane Jr., Bennington, VT racer Joey Scarborough, Spencertown, NY racer Dylan Madsen, Canaan, CT racer Connor Crane, and defending series champion Taylor Wason from Middlegrove, NY.
NOTES: Let’s start the notes off by mentioning Alex Palmer-Sawyer, who had his best career performance when the lights shined brightest. It was Stan Da’ Man night, extra distance, extra money on the line, and a CDRA series race and APS earned a 2nd place finish. Also worth noting is David Baronowski in the Peckham Motorsports 112 car who had an impressive 4th place finish under the Friday night lights at Malta. Final note, Zach Buff of Amsterdam, NY and his 5th place finish in the West End Towing & Repair 01 car. Buff started 17th and raced his way to a top five.
TITLE WATCH: It’s getting dicey for a ticket to title town. Chris Jakubiak kept his CQC Painting 49 in the point lead with another podium finish during CDRA competition, but he only holds a ONE POINT margin over Tim Hartman Jr. It’s no surprise Hartman is a title contender, as he has wins at all three tracks CDRA has point paying races at. Scarborough, Madsen, and Crane all within a mere 13 points of leader Jakubiak. Finally in our title watch, defending champion Taylor Wason is grinding and working his way back towards the top. With his respective 10th place finish in the Flying Trowel 32, he’s now 8th in point standings just 22 out of the lead.
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: Focus shifts to Glen Ridge Motorsports Park for a DIRTcar Sportsman Series event that doubles as a points paying race for CDRA competitors on Sunday August 3rd for a Rumble At The Ridge.
CDRA is a nostalgic throwback to the CVRA days. A series designed specifically for Capital District racing. Season two schedule consists of a diverse schedule at storied dirt tracks like the great race place, the fastest quarter mile on dirt, and the valley of speed. Drivers who do travel the Capitaland will earn hardware and some green for their efforts.
J-Tees Screen Printing Fast Timer: Derrick McGrew Jr. (16.612) Big Red One Hard Charger: Chris Jakubiak (15th to 3rd) Lap Leaders: Drew Cormie (1-21), Tim Hartman Jr. (22-32) Newcomer of the Race: Alex Palmer-Sawyer (2nd) Outstanding Performance: Zach Buff (5th) Who Finished Fifth: Zach Buff
2025 CDRA POINT RACE SCHEDULE 04/18/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway ✔ 07/25/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway ✔ 06/01/25 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park 08/03/25 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park 08/28/25 – Lebanon Valley Speedway 09/19/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway
Official Primary CDRA Marketing Partners For 2025 include: Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply.
Official Associate CDRA Partners For 2025 Include: Fox Racing Shox, SD Marketing and Designs LLC, Herrington Farms LLC, J-Tees Screen Printing, McGaffin Family Photography, and Final Reward Trophies.
Official Affiliate CDRA Partners For 2025 Include: DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, GM Performance 602 Crate Engines, Mad Skins Race Car Bodies, Cordova Plumbing & Heating, Bart Contracting, Hayes Trucking & Excavating, New Deals Used Cars, Joe Wilkinson & Sons Excavating, County Waste, and Doug Wholey Ideal Excavation.
Official Media | Social Partners For 2025 Include: Area Auto Racing News, Hazilla Brands, My Race Pass, DIRTvision, DTDtv, Race Pro Weekly, Dirt Track Digest, Race New York, Doug’s Dirt Diary.
Official CDRA Race Titles For 2025 Include: Sportsman Modified Spring Showdown (ALB), Montgomery County Brawl (GRMP), Flying Trowel 32 (ALB), Rumble At The Ridge (GRMP), Mr. Crate Track USA (LVS), and Great Crate Classic – Malta Massive Weekend (ALB).
Information shared about partners in Capital District Racing Association is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Info included but not limited to winner’s share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change.
For the latest news, results, point standings, and more about the CDRA Series presented by JAM Performance and Elmo’s Speed Supply, please visit http://www.cdraracing.com.
MALTA, NY – Tonight, at Albany-Saratoga Speedway business is going to pick up in the chase for the 2025 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Series points championship presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply with the Flying Trowel 32 for Sportsman Modifieds, as part of a very special Stan Da’ Man tribute program at the great race place.
Haun Welding Supply is presenting Stan Da’ Man Night with all weekly racing divisions plus 4-Cylinders. The program includes a points paying race for the JAM Performance CDRA series presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply, two huge contributors to the series point fund. Racing this evening for Sportsman Modifieds will follow the DIRTcar/Albany-Saratoga rules including hot laps, heat races, last chance qualifiers, and format to set the starting field for the A-Main.
Albany-Saratoga Speedway is graciously host the CDRA Sportsman Modified Series for a fourth time on Friday July 25th. The Malta, NY facility has seen drivers Tim Hartman Jr., Chris Crane Jr., and Chris Jakubiak claim CDRA points paying wins, while their home track competitor Taylor Wason went on to win the series championship back in season one (2024).
Last year there was no mid-season points paying contest at the great race place for the CDRA series drivers. Only races were early season for the Spring Showdown and late fall for the Great Crate Classic. Those races were of course won by Tim Hartman Jr. in spring along with Chris Crane Jr. who won both in the spring and the fall event during Malta Massive Weekend.
With the rain delayed event at Glen Ridge on June 1st, Spring Showdown winner Chris Jakubiak has the opportunity to return to his weekly race place as the CDRA point leader before deciding if he can make the remaining scheduled points paying races and earn a CDRA chamlionship.
“It’s going to be interesting to see how the points shape up this season since mother nature threw everyone including us (CDRA) a curve ball and we’re starting this season with back-to-back races at Malta. Right now, it’s anybody’s title to claim,” said competition director Rob Hazer.
To follow all the happenings at Albany-Saratoga Speedway for Stan Da’ Man Night presented by Haun Welding Supply fans can visit the speedway, watch on DTD.tv, follow on My Race Pass, or like and follow CDRA social media on Facebook.
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: After the Flying Trowel 32 at Albany-Saratoga, CDRA heads to Glen Ridge Motorsports Park for the Rumble At The Ridge. Not only is it a points paying event for CDRA, but also a DIRTcar Sportsman fall series race. Plenty of talent will be in town for a battle at the fastest ¼ mile on dirt.
CDRA is a nostalgic throwback to the CVRA days. A series designed specifically for Capital District racing. Season two schedule consists of a diverse schedule at storied dirt tracks like the great race place, the fastest quarter mile on dirt, and the valley of speed. Drivers who do travel the Capitaland will earn hardware and some green for their efforts.
Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.
2025 CDRA POINT RACE SCHEDULE 04/18/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway ✔ PPD – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park (TBD) 07/25/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway 08/03/25 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park 08/28/25 – Lebanon Valley Speedway 09/19/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway
Official Primary CDRA Marketing Partners For 2025 include: Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply.
Official Associate CDRA Partners For 2025 Include: Fox Racing Shox, SD Marketing and Designs LLC, Herrington Farms LLC, J-Tees Screen Printing, McGaffin Family Photography, and Final Reward Trophies.
Official Affiliate CDRA Partners For 2025 Include: DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, GM Performance 602 Crate Engines, Mad Skins Race Car Bodies, Cordova Plumbing & Heating, Bart Contracting, Hayes Trucking & Excavating, New Deals Used Cars, Joe Wilkinson & Sons Excavating, County Waste, and Doug Wholey Ideal Excavation.
Official Media | Social Partners For 2025 Include: Area Auto Racing News, Hazilla Brands, My Race Pass, DIRTvision, DTDtv, Race Pro Weekly, Dirt Track Digest, Race New York, Doug’s Dirt Diary.
Official CDRA Race Titles For 2025 Include: Sportsman Modified Spring Showdown (ALB), Montgomery County Brawl (GRMP), Flying Trowel 32 (ALB), Rumble At The Ridge (GRMP), Mr. Crate Track USA (LVS), and Malta Massive Weekend Great Crate Race (ALB).
Information shared about partners in Capital District Racing Association is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Info included but not limited to winner’s share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change.
For the latest news, results, point standings, and more about the CDRA Series presented by JAM Performance and Elmo’s Speed Supply, please visit http://www.cdraracing.com.
06/09/25: Joey Scarborough has been hot this season on nights Mother Nature doesn’t win. Here he is during hot laps at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. (Don Simpson Photo | DTD 2025)
FONDA, NY – Mother Nature is on a serious bender this season washing out racing in the Capital District on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday recently including the JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA points paying race presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply that would have been part of the DIRTcar East Sportsman Modified Series event at Glen Ridge.
Currently CDRA officials are holding tight awaiting a makeup date for the June 1st race that rained out. Once DIRTcar and Glen Ridge Motorsports Park officials agree on a date, CDRA will again attempt to tag along for a points paying race with the DIRTcar Sportsman East Series. Drivers want two PPR’s at The Ridge and work is being done behind the scenes to make sure that it is a reality.
Mother Nature has caused many tracks and series into rescheduling events in the Capital District, as she’s rained shows out or caused saturated grounds as the case this past Sunday at The Ridge for their weekly racing program. For CDRA the next points paying race on the schedule is a return run at Albany-Saratoga Speedway.
This season there are three points paying races at the great race place with the addition of the Flying Trowel 32, scheduled for Friday July 25th. The extra distance main event pays extra to the winner on a night to honor and remember track promoter Lyle DeVore’s father Stan. 32-laps in distance for CDRA racers paying $1,320 to win for Sportsman Modifieds on Stan Da’ Man night.
Ballston Spa, NY racer Chris Jakubiak continues to lead the points with fellow competitors Donovan Lussier, Joey Scarborough, Tim Hartman Jr. and Dylan Madsen completing the top five.
More details to come about the Flying Trowel 32 at Albany-Saratoga on July 25th as racers await the makeup date at Glen Ridge.
“Rain has really been crushing racing in the Capital District this year. Everywhere has had a really wet spring. Racers want to race, and fans want to spectate. We’re patiently waiting to hear from the fine folks at Glen Ridge on a makeup date so we can again tag along and/or team up next to the DIRTcar East Sportsman Series event. For now, we’re looking forward to our second of three points races in Malta, NY this season,” said competition director Rob Hazer.
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: Back to Albany-Saratoga Speedway for another points paying race as Sportsman Modified racers compete on Stan Da’ Man night. 32-lap main event paying $1,320 to win for the second of three points paying races on the CDRA schedule at the great race place.
CDRA is a nostalgic throwback to the CVRA days. A series designed specifically for Capital District racing. Season two schedule consists of a diverse schedule at storied dirt tracks like the great race place, the fastest quarter mile on dirt, and the valley of speed. Drivers who do travel the Capitaland will earn hardware and some green for their efforts.
Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.
2025 CDRA POINT RACE SCHEDULE 04/18/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway ✔ 06/01/25 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park ❓ 07/25/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway 08/03/25 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park 08/28/25 – Lebanon Valley Speedway 09/19/25 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway
Official Primary CDRA Marketing Partners For 2025 include: Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Lebanon Valley Speedway, Glen Ridge Motorsports Park, JAM Performance, Elmo’s Speed Supply.
Official Associate CDRA Partners For 2025 Include: Fox Racing Shox, SD Marketing and Designs LLC, Herrington Farms LLC, J-Tees Screen Printing, McGaffin Family Photography, and Final Reward Trophies.
Official Affiliate CDRA Partners For 2025 Include: DIRTcar Racing, Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, GM Performance 602 Crate Engines, Mad Skins Race Car Bodies, Cordova Plumbing & Heating, Bart Contracting, Hayes Trucking & Excavating, New Deals Used Cars, Joe Wilkinson & Sons Excavating, County Waste, and Doug Wholey Ideal Excavation.
Official Media | Social Partners For 2025 Include: Area Auto Racing News, Hazilla Brands, My Race Pass, DIRTvision, DTDtv, Race Pro Weekly, Dirt Track Digest, Race New York, Doug’s Dirt Diary.
Official CDRA Race Titles For 2025 Include: Sportsman Modified Spring Shootout (ALB), Quarter Mile Mayhem (GRMP), Flying Trowel 32 (ALB), Rumble At The Ridge (GRMP), Mr. Crate Track USA (LVS), and Malta Massive Weekend Fall Nationals (ALB).
Information shared about partners in Capital District Racing Association is obtained via website, social media, and/or track press. Info included but not limited to winner’s share, formats, laps, sponsors, or schedule dates are subject to change.
For the latest news, results, point standings, and more about the CDRA Series presented by JAM Performance and Elmo’s Speed Supply, please visit http://www.cdraracing.com.
CDRA 