BALLSTON SPA, NY – 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗼? Derrick McGrew Jr. has had a solid racing season in 2026, and now with one PPE left he has an opportunity to win the JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA series points title presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply and the L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy.
Ballston Spa, NY hot shoe DM2 trails the point leader Chris Crane Jr. by a mere 7 points. He’s been making noise weekly at the great race place, on the DIRTcar Sportsman tour, and right here in the Capital District chasing the CDRA crown. Malta Massive Weekend is his chance to derail the crane train.
His most sure path to victory is winning the Great Crate Classis at Albany-Saratoga Speedway on Friday September 25th against what is sure to be a stacked field of talent considering it’s also a DIRTcar Sportsman Series championship event. That might be easier said than done, as the Crane brothers have dominated Malta’s big season ending event two years in a row.
Should McGrew Jr. overcome odds and win that’s part of the equation, and he’ll need Chris Crane Jr to finish 7th or worse to win the title by one point. If McGrew wins and Crane Jr. is 6th, they tie and we go to the tiebreakers.
Remember, CDRA does not crown co-champions. In the event of any ties in point standings for any position, we go to the tiebreakers set forth in series rules. First, podium finishes. That’s top 3’s (1st, 2nd, 3rd) not just wins. If still tied, the tiebreaker falls back on the better finisher in the final PPE.
If the second-generation chip off the old block manages to finish 2nd or any other position, he’d need Chris Crane Jr., Joey Scarborough, and Connor Crane behind him by no less than 3 spots to take 3rd in points, 5 spots to take 2nd in points, and 7 spots to take the point lead.
“I’ve been really impressed with Derrick McGrew Jr.’s growth as a racer and a young man over the years. He’s got good teachers being surrounded by and mentored by his father and uncle Randy who have both been successful, but it’s his calm demeanor and patient racing style that has really come a long way. He’d be just as solid of a champion as Chris, Connor or Joey,” said CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.
We will go back-to-back in previews, as this special Sunday night drop will be followed by a Monday night look at 2024 champion and title contender Taylor Wason. He’s got a little more work to do if he wants to claim the 2026 L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy and CDRA points title.
Get your popcorn ready race fans, because the CDRA championship at Albany-Saratoga Speedway takes place Friday September 25th with the running of the Great Crate Classic during Malta Massive Weekend. It’s part of the DIRTcar Sportsman Championship event.
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.
For more information on CDRA visit www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follothee faw.
Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.
06/16/26 – Lebanon Valley Speedway | WINNER: Tim Hartman Jr.
07/05/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | WINNER: Connor Crane
07/24/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | WINNER: Tim Hartman Jr.
08/09/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | WINNER: Derrick McGrew Jr.
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, 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, G&R Motorsports, 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.
CANAAN, CT – 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗼? Connor Crane has an opportunity to do what only one other racer has done if he can win the JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA series points title presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply and the L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy named in honor of Lyle DeVore.
Canaan, CT racer Connor Crane trails his big brother Chris Crane Jr. by a mere 5-points for the top spot in CDRA racing standings. Connor, aka ‘kid cushion’, is fresh off winning the Albany-Saratoga track championship and now heads back to his Friday stomping grounds for the CDRA finale.
For Connor to match Tim Hartaman Jr. as the only driver to win a track title and the CDRA title in the same season, he needs a few things to happen starting with the obvious, winning. He’s won before at Malta Massive Weekend and was honored for it with the series Outstanding Performance award.
If Crane finishes second, he’d need big brother Chris to finish fourth or worse to overcome those 5-points, but he’s also going to need Joey Scarborough behind him finishing sixth or worse. This is the first driver of our six contenders who has to overcome two of his fellow competitors in points.
If Connor were to finish anywhere else in the field, which will be full of talent from both CDRA and DIRTcar competitors for the Great Crate Classic on Friday September 25th at Albany-Saratoga, he would need both Chris Crane Jr. and Joey Scarborough behind him by at least six spots.
Remember, CDRA does not crown co-champions. In the event of any ties in point standings for any position, we go to the tiebreakers set forth in series rules. First, podium finishes. That’s top 3’s (1st, 2nd, 3rd) not just wins. If still tied, the tiebreaker falls back on the better finisher in the final PPE.
“It’s bittersweet for the Crane family. One kid is going to win, and one is not. It happened with the track title at Malta, which was a tough pill to swallow for Chris. He’s worked so hard and done so well, but racing happened and cut him short to his brother for the title. That may happen with us too. I’d rather see a clean and green race so these guys can settle it like racers, but unpredictability with a tight margin will make the night tense no doubt,” said CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.
Next driver we’ll look at of the six title contenders is Derrick McGrew Jr. who has been red hot this summer with wins all around the Capital District. Derrick will need to overcome a 7-point deficit to claim the 2026 L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy and CDRA points title.
Get your popcorn ready race fans, because the CDRA championship at Albany-Saratoga Speedway takes place Friday September 25th with the running of the Great Crate Classic during Malta Massive Weekend. It’s part of the DIRTcar Sportsman Championship event.
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.
For more information on CDRA visit www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follothee faw.
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 | WINNER: Joey Scarborough 06/16/26 – Lebanon Valley Speedway | WINNER: Tim Hartman Jr. 07/05/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | WINNER: Connor Crane 07/24/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | WINNER: Tim Hartman Jr. 08/09/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | WINNER: Derrick McGrew Jr. 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, 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, G&R Motorsports, 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.
BRANDON, VT – 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗼?The bandito is heavily in the conversation to punch a ticket to title town winning the JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA series points title presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply and the L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy named in honor of Lyle DeVore.
Brandon, VT racer Joey Scarborough is another points contender of the six still alive in the championship chase with just one point paying event left on the 2026 CDRA schedule. It happens September 25th at the great race place and includes DIRTcar Sportsman fall series racers.
So, what’s his easiest road to CDRA immortality? Win. If he wins, he’s the champ. It’s that easy. Or is it? Scarborough who is the DIRTcar East Region series champ will have to top the talent rich Capital District driver pool and a loaded field of competitors following DIRTcar Sportsman points.
If Scarborough doesn’t win, he can still earn the title. If he finishes 3 or more spots ahead of Chris Crane Jr. he’ll win the title by ONE POINT. Meaning a 2nd on back, he needs to be 3 spots ahead of Crane. 2 spots equal a tie in points, and we go to the tiebreaker. Yes, we have tie breaker metrics.
CDRA believes heavily in crowning a champion, but not co-champions. Any tie in points would be broken one of two ways, as has been practiced since inception. First, we go to podium finishes. That’s top 3’s (1st, 2nd, 3rd) not just wins. If still tied, it’s simply the better finisher in the final PPE.
As of right now if Scarborough was to tie Crane Jr., the title would be awarded to Joey who has 3 podium finishes to Crane’s 2. Both racers have had equally strong campaigns this year with CDRA, and yes, it’s that tight for the title. A hard, clean, leave it all on the track race is what fans are in store for.
“Joey is a good racer. He races hard, aggressive, and has every bit of talent to seal the deal and earn the title. He won at Malta to open the season, and if he bookends our points schedule with another win he’d take back the point lead by overcoming the 2 point deficit, and claim the title and trophy for himself. He’ll be the first Vermont racer to earn such an accolade with CDRA. He’s a quiet young man, veteran of the division, and not surprising he’s in title contention,” said CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.
Next driver we’ll look at of the six title contenders is ‘kid cushion’ Connor Crane. We’ll talk about how he can punch his ticket to title town and what he needs to happen so he can overcome a 5-point deficit.
Get your popcorn ready race fans, as we still have drivers including Derrick McGrew Jr., Taylor Wason, and Nick Brundige to discuss. All with a shot at the CDRA championship at Albany-Saratoga Speedway for the Great Crate Classic during Malta Massive Weekend.
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.
For more information on CDRA visit www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follothee faw.
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 | WINNER: Joey Scarborough 06/16/26 – Lebanon Valley Speedway | WINNER: Tim Hartman Jr. 07/05/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | WINNER: Connor Crane 07/24/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | WINNER: Tim Hartman Jr. 08/09/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | WINNER: Derrick McGrew Jr. 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, 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, G&R Motorsports, 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.
07/30/26: Chad Gregory (#23g) and Derrick McGrew Jr. (#26) race for position during the Flying Trowel 32 at Albany-Saratoga Speedway as part of the L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy chase. (Jeremy McGaffin Photo | CDRA)
FONDA, NY – Four of the top five in JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA series points presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply remained the same after the Flying Trowel PPE at Albany-Saratoga, with one driver climbing his way up. With this episode of the Power Five we’ll look at the newest top contender and look at point battles within the top ten racers currently in point standings.
Let’s start with driver names that have been consistent in the top five point standings thus far in season three beginning with point leader Joey Scarborough of Brandon, VT. Not only did Scarborough retain the point lead but Canaan, CT racers Chris Crane Jr. and Connor Crane, along with Round Lake, NY racer Nick Brundige all remained top five. So, who’s the new guy?
Ballston Spa, NY racer Derrick McGrew Jr. took advantage of a hot streak to earn consecutive top 10 finishes catapulting him into 4th place in point standings just 22 back from the lead. McGrew is red hot in the Capital District right now with wins at Albany-Saratoga and Glen Ridge racing his Next Generation Roofing, West End Towing & Repair, and Herron Reality number 26 Bicknell race rod.
With that being said, let’s take a look just outside the power five at some racers just outside looking in starting with Middlegrove, NY racer Taylor Wason. He’s had a pair of top 10 finishes, which has helped the 2024 champion climb back into title contention racing his CWS Construction, Lenihan Paving, and Lake Auto Parts number 07w Bicknell racing chassis.
Gansevoort, NY racer Michael Wagner-Fitzgerald fell from 4th to 7th in points, but is still very much in the championship picture. Same with Bolton Landing, NY racer Craig Wholey who started the CDRA point season red hot, but slumped just a bit over the past couple races though remains in contention.
Next racer up in point standings currently 9th overall is Saratoga Springs, NY racer Michael Ballestero. In his first season chasing the CDRA title, Ballestero has climbed back into the top 10 after a tough start to the championship chase driving his Stone’s Pharmacy, M&J Construction, and Generations Auto number 27 Bicknell racing chassis. He’s looking to climb further up the standings.
Last driver in today’s special edition Power Five, is Chad Gregory of Clifton Park, NY. Gregory is in the NOTY conversation and looks solid in his first season touring with CDRA. It hasn’t been easy for Gregory, as he’s still young in his Sportsman Modified journey, but he’s mixing it up with some top talents from CDRA and DIRTcar alike.
Other racers just outside the top 10 include CDRA regulars Savannah Laflair, Brent Warren, defending champion Tim Hartman Jr., William August, and Jordan Hill. All who have an opportunity to reach the top 10 in points by seasons end.
“We’re coming up on our second PPE at Glen Ridge, which if it’s as good as last seasons event fans will be treated to a really good race. The Ridge plays an important role in our series, because it’s vastly different than Albany-Saratoga or Lebanon Valley. It’s a bull ring so drivers are up on the wheel and in traffic from the drop of the green to the finish,” said CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: The series returns to Glen Ridge Motorsports Park Sunday August 9, 2026, for another showdown with DIRTcar Sportsman racing’s finest. It’s the Rumble at the Ridge PPE, which is also the beginning of the DIRTcar Sportsman Fall Championship Series. Get your popcorn ready.
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.
For more information on CDRA visit www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follothee faw.
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 | WINNER: Joey Scarborough 06/16/26 – Lebanon Valley Speedway | WINNER: Tim Hartman Jr. 07/05/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | WINNER: Connor Crane 07/24/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | WINNER: Tim Hartman Jr. 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, 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, G&R Motorsports, 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.
07/24/26: Tim Hartman Jr. celebrates his second consecutive Flying Trowel 32 PPE victory in G&R Motorsports Victory Lane at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. (Jeremy McGaffin Photo | CDRA)
MALTA, NY – It was fitting on a night celebrating fathers who introduce their sons to dirt track racing, defending JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA series presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply champion Tim Hartman Jr. earned his second consecutive Stan Da’ Man Flying Trowel 32 victory.
By the way of a redraw to set the top 12 starters, two of the most winning drivers in Sportsman Modified history at Albany-Saratoga Michael Ballestero of Saratoga Springs, NY and Tim Hartman Jr. of Glenville, NY would lead the starting field to the green with Hartman grabbing the early race lead.
Ballestero racing his Stone’s Pharmacy 27 was left to battle early on with Montgomery, NY racer Cole Hentschel in his West Coast Grage Doors 3h and Johnsonville, NY racer David Barnanowski in his Ghetto Child Motorsports 112.
Early on it was clear that 2024 CDRA champion Taylor Wason of Middlegrove, NY was going to have a strong run in his CWS Construction 07. The ‘middlegrove missle’ who has a weekly win to his credit at Malta this season was high, wide, and handsome on the cushion.
By the one third mark of the event, current L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy contender Joey Scarborough of Brandon, VT was working his way forward in his Central Vermont Motorcycles number 11vt. Scarborough was inside the top five and looking for more.
Newcomer Of The Year contenders and teammates Chad Gregory of Clifton Park, NY and Derrick McGrew Jr. of Ballston Spa, NY were racing forward looking to crack the top five. Both racers carry Next Generation Roofing sponsorship, and are having solid seasons with the CDRA series.
Just past the midpoint of the event, brothers Crane were starting to flex their muscle after starting deep in the field. Chris Crane Jr. who started 22nd with his Greenacres Landscaping 711 had raced his way inside the top 10 bringing his Canaan, CT brother Connor Crane with him.
Late in the event Scarborough and Wason would close on leader Hartman to make it interesting over the final handful of laps, but TH2 wasn’t going to be denied and picked up the $1,820 to win Flying Trowel on Stan Da’ Man night leading all 32 laps.
Scarborough crossed the line second with Wason third, Derrick McGrew Jr. fourth, and David Baranowski fifth.
Rounding out the top 10 were Chris Crane Jr., Connor Crane, Daniel Grignon, Bodie Marks, and Michael Ballestero.
“It’s about time. Felt like I forgot how to do this here. We’ve been struggling here, but it’s cool to get it figured out on a night like this (for Stan) and we’ve won this race before, so it’s nice to win it again and take home some extra money. That’ll make it a little bit nicer,” said Tim Hartman Jr. in G&R Motorsports Victory Lane.
Mia Meehan asked one final question of TH2, if he thought he was on the upswing after the Flying Trowel 32 win and he replied simply, “We better be.”
CDRA NOTES: Three notes to takeaway from the Flying Trowel starts with Tim Hartman Jr. finally finding victory lane in Malta. TH2, who is also the defending CDRA champion, had been shut out of victory lane until Friday when he won the Flying Trowel 32 PPE on Stan Da’ Man night.
2024 CDRA champion Taylor Wason was looking for a podium finish, and he got it. He and his team never give up, work hard, and overcome adversity, but before the Flying Trowel his best PPE finish this season was 6th. Now, he has a podium finish to his credit and has climbed to 6th in points.
Despite Chris Crane Jr. easily earning Hard Charger, it’s Derrick McGrew Jr. who’s quietly making noise. D-McGrew II is keeping pressure on Crane for the NOTY and earned a solid 4th place finish after starting 12th. Both racers are top five in point standings and top contenders for the NOTY.
CDRA TITLE WATCH: Our top three title contenders start with Bradford, VT racer Joey Scarborough. He started 8th in the Flying Trowel, took his time, and at the end was nearly able to pull off a win. Scarborough is the kind of consistent this season that wins championships.
Canaan, CT racer Chris Crane Jr. is keeping the pressure on the point leader. After starting 22nd he stormed to a solid 6th place finish earning the Big Red One Herrington Farms Hard Charger for the Flying Trowel PPE. He’s only seven points out of the top spot.
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: CDRA returns to Glen Ridge Motorsports Park Sunday August 9, 2026 for another showdown with DIRTcar Sportsman racing’s finest. It’s the Rumble at the Ridge PPE, which is also the beginning of the DIRTcar Sportsman Fall Championship Series. Get your popcorn ready.
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.
For more information on CDRA visit www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follothee faw.
Anyone interested in joining CDRA family of marketing partners can contact the series via website, phone, or e-mail.
JTees Screen Printing Fast Timer: Derrick McGrew Jr. (16.344) Saratoga Masonry Supply Heat Winners: Derrick McGrew Jr., Craig Wholey, Chad Gregory, & Michael Ballestero Race City Roll-Offs Lap Leaders: Tim Hartman Jr. (1-32) Herrington Farms Big Red One Hard Charger: Chris Crane Jr. (22nd to 6th) G&R Motorsports Newcomer OTR: Derrick McGrew Jr. (4th) McGaffin Photography Rated Rookie OTR: Bodie Marks (9th) Stone’s Pharmacy Hard Luck Award: Cole Hentschel (-21)
2026 CDRA POINTS PAYING EVENTS 04/17/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | WINNER: Joey Scarborough 06/16/26 – Lebanon Valley Speedway | WINNER: Tim Hartman Jr. 07/05/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | WINNER: Connor Crane 07/24/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | WINNER: Tim Hartman Jr. 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, 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, G&R Motorsports, 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.
07/21/26: Power Five racer Nick Brundige is fresh off a weekly racing win at Albany-Saratoga heading into the Flying Trowel 32 this week for CDRA series action. (Bill McGaffin Photo | CDRA)
MALTA, NY – Friday night route 9 comes to life with Stan Da’ Man Night at Albany-Saratoga Speedway, which includes the Flying Trowel CDRA PPE. Current power five racers Joey Scarborough, Connor Crane, Chris Crane Jr., Michael Wagner-Fitzgerald, and Nick Brundige will be in action chasing their first L.D. Bossman Championship series trophy.
Joey Scarborough of Brandon, VT leads all title contenders after three PPE’s with 402 points with his Central Vermont Motorcycles, Interstate Batteries, and Howe Center Auto number 11VT Bicknell Racing Chassis. This season Scarborough has not finished worse than 7th and has a win back in April at the great race place in the Spring Shootout.
Canaan, CT racer Chris Crane Jr. is chasing the title and NOTY wheeling his Greenacres Landscaping, Crane’s Outdoor Power Equipment, and SABCO Performance 711 Bicknell Racing Chassis. Crane, who is currently second in points with 399, hasn’t finished worse than 6th this season and has won a PPE in each CDRA season thus far.
Kid Cushion Connor Crane of Canaan, CT is red hot coming off a big CDRA PPE win at The Ridge racing his Greenacres Landscaping, Laurelbrook Natural Resources, and Proper Connections number 711x Bicknell Racing Chassis. Little Brother Connor is also chasing the title and NOTY this season, which he’s third in standings with 392 points.
Gansevoort, NY racer Michael Wagner-Fitzgerald may not have found G&R Motorsports victory lane yet with CDRA, but he’s consistent enough to be in both the title and NOTY conversations driving his S&S Mobile RV Repair, Winchell Construction & Roll-Offs, and Helderberg Excavation number 88 Bicknell Racng Chassis. Fitz is currently fourth in points with 392 with a best finish of 5th at LVS.
Rounding out the current power five is Round Lake, NY racer Nick Brundige who has really excelled the past two seasons on tour driving his Capital District Towing, Miller Motorsports, and Rocky Photography number 916 Bicknell Racing Chassis. Brundige is currently 5th in standings with 390 points, with his best series finish this season being 4th during the Spring Shootout in Malta.
Drivers just outside the power five, but well within the title conversation include Derrick McGrew Jr., Craig Wholey, 2024 series champion Taylor Wason, Michael Ballestero, and Chad Gregory. After all, there are only 57 points separating 1st from 10th in standings.
“Flying Trowel is the second of three PPEs in Malta and this one is going to be big. Right now, it looks like we’re going to have a brand-new champion, and this extra distance race is going to play a part in determining who that may be, because it’s the start of three consecutive extra distance races. 32, 40, then 35 over the next 3 races,” said competition director Rob Hazer.
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: Next stop for the stars and cars of the CDRA Racing Sportsman Modified series is a return to the Great Race Place Albany-Saratoga Speedway on Friday July 24th for the Flying Trowel 32 on a special Stan Da’ Man night of racing. Get your popcorn ready and don’t miss it.
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.
For more information on CDRA visit www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follothee faw.
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 | WINNER: Joey Scarborough 06/16/26 – Lebanon Valley Speedway | WINNER: Tim Hartman Jr. 07/05/26 – Glen Ridge Motorsports Park | WINNER: Connor Crane 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, 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, G&R Motorsports, 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.
04/17/26: Joey Scarborough (11VT) races with Chris Crane Jr. (711) for the lead at Albany-Saratoga Speedway during the CDRA Spring Shootout. (Bill McGaffin Photo | CDRA)
MALTA, NY – Brandon, VT hot shoe Joey Scarborough wasted no time in making his case for title contention after picking up the Spring Shootout feature win at Albany-Saratoga Speedway in the JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA series presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply. Chris Crane Jr. and Craig Wholey joined him rounding out the podium finishers after 25-laps of competition.
Scarborough and Ballston Spa, NY second generation talent Derrick McGrew Jr. would lead the 30-car starting field to Rich Peterson’s green flag with Scarborough taking the early lead leaving McGrew to battle with Bolton Landing, NY racer Craig Wholey, Canaan, CT racer Chris Crane Jr., and Middlegrove, NY racer Taylor Wason.
First caution came on lap five after inadvertent contact resulted in defending series champion Tim Hartman Jr. out of Glenville, NY with a flat tire and body damage. He would return to the event, however Johnsonville, NY racer Dave Baranowski would not be as fortunate and would be done for the evening.
On the restart Scarborough went back to work leading, and other racers went back to work battling for position throughout the field. One of those drivers would be Malta, NY driver Jon Miller who was having a solid run racing inside the top 10 battling with Wason, Round Lake, NY racer Nick Brundige, and Gansevoort, NY racer Michael Wagner-Fitzgerald.
By the halfway point of the Spring Shootout points paying event for CDRA, there were a few drivers turning in impressive runs during the season opener starting with Warrensburg, NY lady racer Jordan Hill who spend a majority of the event racing for position inside the top ten, as she vies for the NOTY for season three.
Other racers who were making noise and putting in work by the midway point were Amsterdam, NY racer Zach Buff, Canaan, CT racer Connor Crane who started deep in the field, and Warwick, QC racer Kaven Poliquin. The top 10 at the midway point were Joey Scarborough, Chris Crane Jr., Craig Wholey, Derrick McGrew Jr., Nick Brundige, Taylor Wason, Michael Wagner-Fitzgerald, Zach Buff, Connor Crane, and Jordan Hill.
Scarborough survived late race restarts and challenges from Chris Crane Jr. to win the 2026 Spring Shootout at Albany-Saratoga. Crane Jr. crossed the finish line second with Craig Wholey, Nick Brundige, and Derrick McGrew Jr. rounding out the top five.
Making up the top ten were Taylor Wason, Michael Wagner-Fitzgerald, Jordan NY racer Savannah Laflair, Montgomery, NY racer Cole Hentschel, and defending series champion Tim Hartman Jr. of Glenville, NY.
“The night really went our way 100%. We got luck in the heat race and caught some breaks, real lucky in the redraw, and again luck went our way on the restarts,” Scarborough said to Rich Vleck in G&R Motorsports victory lane.
He continued with saying, “I hit the setup perfectly for the feature, didn’t miss my line once which I was surprised by that, and everything just worked out. Car was great, which made me look great. There’s a lot of guys who work hard back there so I can do this out here. Shoutout to Jake watching from home. His little pep talks before the race really got me hitting my line and do what I do.”
CDRA NOTES: Three drivers who had massive runs putting in work behind the wheel start with Round, Lake NY racer Nick Brundige. The 2025 NOTY award winner drove from 15th to finish strong in 4th.
Jordan, NY lady racer Savannah Laflair raced impressively on a technical racetrack to an impressive 8th place finish after starting 26th.
Finally, Canaan, NY racer Connor Crane who came from the 28th starting spot to earn a 13th place finish respectively.
CDRA TITLE WATCH: Three points of note in the title watch begin with the obvious, Joey Scarborough. Less than a week after declaring his intent to race full-time chasing the L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy with CDRA, he parked it in victory lane at Albany-Saratoga winning his first series race.
Secondly, defending champion Tim Hartman Jr. faced adversity in his title defense opener. But the champ overcame what could’ve been a bad night filled with ups and downs to earn a top ten finish.
Finally, Craig Wholey of Bolton Landing, NY has injected himself into the title conversation after the Spring Shootout. It’s not his first podium finish during CDRA races. We know after pre-registrations, Chris Crane Jr. has his eyes on title town, but Wholey is just the wild card that could make the points battle that much more dramatic.
UP NEXT FOR CDRA: CDRA visits Lebanon Valley Speedway next on Tuesday June 16th as part of the Super DIRTcar Big Block Modified Series program for Mr. Crate Track USA. This is a crown jewel event on the series schedule valued on a higher point scale.
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.
JTees Screen Printing Fast Timer: Cody Ochs (17.273) Herrington Farms Big Red One Hard Charger: Savannah Laflair 26th to 8th (+18) G&R Motorsports Newcomer Of The Race: Savannah Laflair (8th) Race City Roll-Offs Lap Leaders: Joey Scarborough (1-25) McGaffin Photography Power Five Finisher: Derrick McGrew Jr. Stone’s Pharmacy Hard Luck Award: Jon Miller
2026 CDRA POINTS PAYING EVENTS 04/17/26 – Albany-Saratoga Speedway | Spring Shootout | Winner: Joey Scarborough 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, R&G Motorsports, 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.
04/10/26: Derrick McGrew Jr. (26), Jon Miller (12), and Zach Buff (01) race for qualifying position during the 2025 Spring Shootout at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. (Bill McGaffin Photo | CDRA )
MALTA, NY – Albany-Saratoga Speedway races into competitive action for the 2026 dirt track season Friday April 17th featuring Super DIRTcar Series Big Block Modifieds, CDRA Sportsman Modifieds, and Pro Stocks on their 61st season opener. The great race place kicks off Season Three for drivers to chase the L.D. Bossman championship trophy.
Cordova Plumbing & Heating will once again present the $1,300 to win Sportsman Modified season opener at the Malta, NY facility on the track side of things. Cordova, located in Southbury, CT, offers individualized plumbing and heating options for both residential and commercial clients with reliable and professional service.
Spring Shootout is also the beginning of the JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA racing points championship chase presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply. Where drivers begin their chase for Capital District supremacy and the coveted L.D. Bossman Championship Trophy.
2026 marks the fourth edition of the Spring Shootout hosted by Albany-Saratoga for CDRA racing, and the sixth race overall for the series on the hallowed grounds of the great race place. This means CDRA racers have turned a total of 179 laps of series competition on the Malta, NY clay.
In the history of the Spring Shootout event there have been three different Sportsman Modified feature winners. On June 25, 2024, Tim Hartman Jr. picked up the Don Davies memorial 26-lap feature win over podium finishers Craig Wholey and Taylor Wason in feature number one.
In feature number two on June 25, 2024, Chris Crane Jr. pulled off a popular victory in the second Don Davies memorial 26-lap Sportsman Modified points paying event over podium finishers Dylan Madsen and Richard Murtaugh III.
On April 18, 2025, Chris Jakubiak kicked off the CDRA Sportsman Modified season with a Spring Shootout dub in the biggest win of his career to date. He held off a hard charging Donovan Lussier, and Joey Scarborough to make up the podium finishers.
CDRA looks forward to seeing racers and race fans alike getting out to Albany-Saratoga Speedway on Friday night April 17th to see a great show of SDS Big Blocks, CDRA Sportsman, and DIRTcar Pro Stock racing to kick off the 61st season of racing at the great race place.
“Albany-Saratoga has always been a big part of the projects I work on. It’ll be different without the bossman around, but you can count on Marcy’s smile, Pete’s hospitality, and the soothing sounds of Mr. Dan Martin on the mic calling the action with our special friend, Mike Warren from the Super DIRTcar Series,” said competition director Rob Hazer in advance of the Spring Shootout at Malta.
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 and first points paying event for series competitors.
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, R&G Motorsports, 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.
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.
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