The Right Stuff Zach Buff Earns SRI Performance Pole For Great Lakes 75 Sportsman Modified Championship Race At Super Dirt Week 53

10/09/25: Zach Buff led all CDRA regulars and notable mentions in qualifying at Super Dirt Week 53. (Bill McGaffin Photo | RPW 2025)

OSWEGO, NY – For the first time in his Sportsman Modified racing career Zach Buff will lead the field to green Saturday at the Clay Palace in Oswego, NY to start the Great Lakes 75 DIRTcar championship event. He bested 83 fellow competitors to earn the SRI Performance and Stock Car Steel Aluminum pole award.

The Latham, NY racer led the charge for CDRA regulars and notable mentions attempting to qualify for the DIRTcar Sportsman Modified portion of Super Dirt Week 53. Buff, a series regular, and Capital District winner and track champion, has multiple top five finishes and a win to his credit in CDRA points paying races.

Buff went to work with his pops to find speed in his West End Towing & Repair 01 Bicknell Racing Chassis after showing up 39th on the speed charts after practice. Find speed they did indeed, as he ripped the lip for a lap time of 23.071 and topping the head-to-head Super Six round to end qualifying as the mark to beat. I guess one could say, Buff had the right stuff.

“You really have to work hard and come here with the best you’ve got. Everything has to be perfect on these cars if you want to run up front. Me and my dad have been in the shop nonstop trying to find the speed we’re looking for, and it looks like we finally did,” said Buff in an interview with DIRTVisions Rich Vleck.

Next up for CDRA racers at Super Dirt Week 53 would be the Crane’s Outdoor Power Equipment 711 of Chris Crane Jr. from Canaan, CT. Junior has multiple top five finishes and two points paying wins to his credit in CDRA action, and found himself 13th on the speed charts after practice. He would improve to 10th in time trial group one with a time of 23.624.

Little bro Connor Crane, also from Canaan, CT, was next up for CDRA notable mentions after clocking in 11th in group three with a time of 23.645. A significant improvement from practice where he found himself 22nd on the speed charts. Connor wowed the Malta, NY crowd with a slide job clinic during Massive Weekend for a Great Crate Classic victory for kid cushion.

Ballston Spa, NY racer and CDRA notable mention Derrick McGrew Jr. was deep on the speed charts after practice in 64th, but vastly improved during time trial group two to earn 8th fastest with a time of 23.734. McGrew, a viable title contender, has multiple top 10 finishes in CDRA points paying races to his credit.

Gansevoort, NY racer Michael Wagner-Fitzgerald found himself roughly mid-pack after practice on the speed charts, but did improve a bit to earn 12th fastest in time trial group one with a lap time of 23.880. Mikey Waggs was in the hunt for the Season Two (2025) title and NOTY honor until missing a pair of mid-season races. Good kid and notable mention without a doubt.

CDRA regular Tavien Blowers of Caroga Lake, NY has struggled to find speed at Super Dirt Week. He’s a resilient competitor with drive and determination to improve, so after being buried deep in practice on the speed charts he picked up the pace a bit to land 16th in time trial group three with a lap time of 23.887. If Blowers could find half a second of speed, he’d be in the top 10.

Practice and time trials are complete for the DIRTcar Sportsman Modified at Super Dirt Week 53. The ‘Super Six’ are locked in and part of the field is set. Next we’ll report on how these Capital District racers fair during qualifying events. Continued well wishes and good luck to all Capitaland racers at Super Dirt Week.

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 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 http://www.cdraracing.com on the web. Fans and drivers can also find CDRA on Social Media at http://www.facebook.com/cdraracing. Be sure to save, like, and follothee faw.

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

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.

CDRA Sportsman Modified Regulars Slap Clay Running At Super Dirt Week In Crown Jewel Of Northeast Dirt Racing Post Season

10/6/25: Chris Crane Jr., who has 2 CDRA wins to his credit, is at Super Dirt Week 53 looking to win another crown jewel event for Sportsman Modifieds. (Bill McGaffin Photo | RPW 2025)

OSWEGO, NY – While the points season has concluded for Sportsman Modified competitors in the JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA racing presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply, the ‘post-season’ racing is getting good. This week the Clay Palace hosts Super Dirt Week 53 where a handful of series regulars chase a Northeast dirt racing crown jewel.

Whenever possible CDRA tries to work in conjunction with DIRTcar Sportsman Modified events at the Ridge, the Valley, or the Great Race Place. These races, which double as points paying races for CDRA, typically highlight the season schedule for competitors in the Sportsman division with all roads leading to Super Dirt Week.

For Super Dirt Week 53 a six-pack of drivers considered CDRA regulars or notable mentions have taken to the Clay Palace chasing a career defining victory. Those drivers include series regulars Tavien Blowers and Zach Buff, along with series notable mentions Chris Crane Jr., Connor Crane, Derrick McGrew Jr., and Michael Wagner-Fitzgerald. All top 10 in final CDRA points in 2025.

Zach Buff from Latham, NY has earned top five finishes in final point standings two consecutive seasons of CDRA racing. His best finish was a win during Season One (2024) at Glen Ridge Motorsports Park in the Montgomery County Brawl. Buff is a track champion, DIRTcar series champion, CDRA series title contender, and rolls into Super Dirt Week looking for a dub.

Canaan, CT racer Chris Crane Jr. is a notable mention. He’s yet to compete with full-time status with CDRA, but has run roughly 75% of scheduled races. In doing so, Crane Jr. has found himself top 10 in final point standings in both Season One (2024) and Season Two (2025). Crane also has two CDRA wins to his credit. A versatile young racer looking for another massive win.

Chris’s little brother Connor Crane, also from Canaan, CT roared into 2025 hustling the high side so well, he earned the nickname ‘Kid Cushion’ from his fans. In six starts with CDRA this notable mention has only finished outside the top 10 one time, in 14th place respectively. Connor also earned a Malta Massive win in CDRA action claiming victory in the Great Crate Classic this season.

Ballston Spa, NY young gun Derrick McGrew Jr. has a mentor in dear old dad who knows how to contend for wins and championships. Jr. has six CDRA points paying starts to his credit where he earned multiple top 10 finishes and was in contention for the NOTY in Season Two (2025). This notable mention could contend again in Season Three (2026) with ‘Super’ momentum on his side.

CDRA is a perfect tour for racers like Michael Wagner-Fitzgerald. A Capital District kid, this talented notable mention was in contention for the NOTY and title this season until missing a pair of races mid-season. His best series finish was 7th at Glen Ridge back in August for Rumble At The Ridge. ‘Mikey Waggs’ was to make his mark starting with a solid performance at Super Dirt Week.

“Super Dirt Week has always been a special race to me. Even though I was disappointed with what they did to the mile, it’s still our sports Super Bowl. It is the crown jewel, and we’ll support our series racers that venture there yearly through our platform. It’s what we do here with CDRA. We promote our tracks, our partners, and the stars of the show, our racers,” said CDRA competition director Rob Hazer.

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.

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

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 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.

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.

Connor Crane Wins Thriller In DIRTcar Sportsman Modified Great Crate Classic Malta Massive Weekend Event While Tim Hartman Jr Earns CDRA Series Title

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.

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.

09/19/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Ideal Excavating | DIRTcar Series Great Crate Classic Sportsman Modified A-Main Feature Results (35 Laps): 1. 711X-Connor Crane[2]; 2. 33-Richard Murtaugh[4]; 3. 4-Emmett Waldron[7]; 4. 18E-Gavin Eisele[6]; 5. 711C-Chris Crane Jr[8]; 6. 89-Dylan Madsen[1]; 7. 78JR-Nigel Pendykoski[14]; 8. 33M-Bodie Marks[3]; 9. 0-Shane Pecore[10]; 10. 22-Tim Hartman Jr[20]; 11. 92T-Tristan Ladouceur[21]; 12. 98W-Craig Wholey[5]; 13. 01-Zachary Buff[19]; 14. 112-Dave Baranowski[24]; 15. 916-Nick Brundige[9]; 16. 44-Ryan Barrett[30]; 17. 12-Jon Miller[25]; 18. 27-Michael Ballestero[17]; 19. 16X-Savannah Laflair[27]; 20. 52-Jessica Power[23]; 21. 12P-Connor Prokop[11]; 22. 10-Trevor Houghton[28]; 23. (DNF) 1M-Mark Mortensen[12]; 24. (DNF) 34-Dylan Grogan[15]; 25. (DNF) 26-Derrick McGrew Jr[26]; 26. (DNF) FOX28-Tyler Stevenson[29]; 27. (DNF) 42D-Daniel Grignon[18]; 28. (DNF) 07W-Taylor Wason[22]; 29. (DNF) 43-Tavien Blowers[13]; 30. (DNF) 02C-Cody Ochs[16].

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.

09/19/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Ideal Excavating | DIRTcar Series Great Crate Classic Sportsman Modified Last Chance Showdown #1 Results (10 Laps): 1. 92T-Tristan Ladouceur[4]; 2. 52-Jessica Power[1]; 3. 12-Jon Miller[3]; 4. 88-Michael Wagner Fitzgerald[2]; 5. FOX28-Tyler Stevenson[7]; 6. 23-Chad Gregory[6]; 7. 1-Scott Bennett[5]; 8. 44-Ryan Barrett[9]; 9. 16X-Savannah Laflair[10]; 10. 92-Tanner Coon[8]; 11. 18-Jeffrey Washburn[11]; 12. 02B-Michael Baker[13]; 13. 43J-Jayden Wust[15]; 14. 42-Zach Delaney[14]; 15. (DNF) 19-Owen Lewis[16]; 16. (DNS) 4L-Elliott Lussier.

09/19/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Ideal Excavating | DIRTcar Series Great Crate Classic Sportsman Modified Last Chance Showdown #2 Results (10 Laps): 1. 07W-Taylor Wason[1]; 2. 112-Dave Baranowski[2]; 3. 26-Derrick McGrew Jr[4]; 4. 99S-Alex Smith[3]; 5. 51H-Jordan Hill[7]; 6. 1D-Paul DeRuyter[14]; 7. 00X-Josh Coonradt[10]; 8. 313-Cameren VanZandt[6]; 9. 61-Alex Palmer Sawyer[5]; 10. 10X-Cory Castell[9]; 11. 10-Trevor Houghton[12]; 12. 4H-Bobby Hackel IV[13]; 13. 98-Camron Hotaling[8]; 14. 647-Brian Nelson[11]; 15. (DNS) 51-Matthew Bourey.

09/19/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Ideal Excavating | DIRTcar Series Great Crate Classic Sportsman Modified Heat Race #1 Results (8 Laps): 1. 33-Richard Murtaugh[1]; 2. 0-Shane Pecore[2]; 3. 12P-Connor Prokop[3]; 4. 02C-Cody Ochs[5]; 5. 52-Jessica Power[4]; 6. 99S-Alex Smith[7]; 7. 23-Chad Gregory[8]; 8. 98-Camron Hotaling[9]; 9. 18-Jeffrey Washburn[6]; 10. 4H-Bobby Hackel IV[10]; 11. 19-Owen Lewis[11].

09/19/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Ideal Excavating | DIRTcar Series Great Crate Classic Sportsman Modified Heat Race #2 Results (8 Laps): 1. 98W-Craig Wholey[4]; 2. 18E-Gavin Eisele[1]; 3. 1M-Mark Mortensen[3]; 4. 27-Michael Ballestero[6]; 5. 07W-Taylor Wason[5]; 6. 92T-Tristan Ladouceur[2]; 7. 313-Cameren VanZandt[9]; 8. 44-Ryan Barrett[7]; 9. 647-Brian Nelson[10]; 10. 42-Zach Delaney[8].

09/19/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Ideal Excavating | DIRTcar Series Great Crate Classic Sportsman Modified Heat Race #3 Results (8 Laps): 1. 4-Emmett Waldron[1]; 2. 916-Nick Brundige[2]; 3. 43-Tavien Blowers[3]; 4. 42D-Daniel Grignon[4]; 5. 88-Michael Wagner Fitzgerald[5]; 6. 26-Derrick Mcgrew Jr[7]; 7. FOX28-Tyler Stevenson[9]; 8. 10X-Cory Castell[8]; 9. 4L-Elliott Lussier[6]; 10. 1D-Paul DeRuyter[10].

09/19/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Ideal Excavating | DIRTcar Series Great Crate Classic Sportsman Modified Heat Race #4 Results (8 Laps): 1. 711X-Connor Crane[1]; 2. 711C-Chris Crane Jr[2]; 3. 78JR-Nigel Pendykoski[3]; 4. 01-Zachary Buff[4]; 5. 112-Dave Baranowski[7]; 6. 1-Scott Bennett[5]; 7. 51H-Jordan Hill[6]; 8. 16X-Savannah Laflair[8]; 9. 10-Trevor Houghton[9]; 10. 43J-Jayden Wust[10].

09/19/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Ideal Excavating | DIRTcar Series Great Crate Classic Sportsman Modified Heat Race #5 Results (8 Laps): 1. 33M-Bodie Marks[1]; 2. 89-Dylan Madsen[2]; 3. 34-Dylan Grogan[3]; 4. 22-Tim Hartman Jr[4]; 5. 12-Jon Miller[5]; 6. 61-Alex Palmer Sawyer[6]; 7. 92-Tanner Coon[7]; 8. 00X-Josh Coonradt[8]; 9. 02B-Michael Baker[10]; 10. 51-Matthew Bourey[9].

09/19/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Ideal Excavating | DIRTcar Series Great Crate Classic Sportsman Modified Time Trial Group 1 Results (3 Laps): 1. 33-Richard Murtaugh, 00:16.553[8]; 2. 0-Shane Pecore, 00:16.598[1]; 3. 12P-Connor Prokop, 00:16.707[6]; 4. 52-Jessica Power, 00:16.752[9]; 5. 02C-Cody Ochs, 00:16.815[3]; 6. 18-Jeffrey Washburn, 00:16.817[7]; 7. 99S-Alex Smith, 00:17.101[10]; 8. 23-Chad Gregory, 00:17.193[5]; 9. 98-Camron Hotaling, 00:17.233[4]; 10. 4H-Bobby Hackel IV, 00:17.468[11]; 11. 19-Owen Lewis, 00:17.475[2].

09/19/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Ideal Excavating | DIRTcar Series Great Crate Classic Sportsman Modified Time Trial Group 2 Results (3 Laps): 1. 18E-Gavin Eisele, 00:16.638[9]; 2. 92T-Tristan Ladouceur, 00:16.646[3]; 3. 1M-Mark Mortensen, 00:16.691[8]; 4. 98W-Craig Wholey, 00:16.702[10]; 5. 07W-Taylor Wason, 00:16.714[6]; 6. 27-Michael Ballestero, 00:16.834[4]; 7. 44-Ryan Barrett, 00:16.863[1]; 8. 42-Zach Delaney, 00:17.335[7]; 9. 313-Cameren VanZandt, 00:17.590[11]; 10. (DQ) 647-Brian Nelson, 00:17.020[2]; 11. (DNS) 34G-James Galarneau.

09/19/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Ideal Excavating | DIRTcar Series Great Crate Classic Sportsman Modified Time Trial Group 3 Results (3 Laps): 1. 4-Emmett Waldron, 00:16.674[9]; 2. 916-Nick Brundige, 00:16.699[4]; 3. 43-Tavien Blowers, 00:16.752[3]; 4. 42D-Daniel Grignon, 00:16.797[1]; 5. 88-Michael Wagner Fitzgerald, 00:16.841[7]; 6. 4L-Elliott Lussier, 00:16.951[11]; 7. 26-Derrick Mcgrew Jr, 00:17.026[8]; 8. 10X-Cory Castell, 00:17.043[6]; 9. FOX28-Tyler Stevenson, 00:17.089[5]; 10. 1D-Paul DeRuyter, 00:17.102[10]; 11. (DNS) 316-Dave Zelker.

09/19/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Ideal Excavating | DIRTcar Series Great Crate Classic Sportsman Modified Time Trial Group 4 Results (3 Laps): 1. 711X-Connor Crane, 00:16.653[10]; 2. 711C-Chris Crane Jr, 00:16.683[4]; 3. 78JR-Nigel Pendykoski, 00:16.713[1]; 4. 01-Zachary Buff, 00:16.833[2]; 5. 1-Scott Bennett, 00:16.915[7]; 6. 51H-Jordan Hill, 00:16.973[3]; 7. 112-Dave Baranowski, 00:16.977[8]; 8. 16X-Savannah Laflair, 00:17.173[6]; 9. 10-Trevor Houghton, 00:17.312[9]; 10. 43J-Jayden Wust, 00:17.331[5].

09/19/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Ideal Excavating | DIRTcar Series Great Crate Classic Sportsman Modified Time Trial Group 5 Results (3 Laps): 1. 33M-Bodie Marks, 00:16.720[4]; 2. 89-Dylan Madsen, 00:16.741[9]; 3. 34-Dylan Grogan, 00:16.779[1]; 4. 22-Tim Hartman Jr, 00:16.793[6]; 5. 12-Jon Miller, 00:16.863[7]; 6. 61-Alex Palmer Sawyer, 00:16.941[5]; 7. 92-Tanner Coon, 00:17.013[2]; 8. 00X-Josh Coonradt, 00:17.060[10]; 9. 51-Matthew Bourey, 00:17.217[8]; 10. 02B-Michael Baker, 00:17.233[3].

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 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.

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.

Raceday For CDRA Sportsman Modified At Albany-Saratoga And Here’s What To Watch For Tonight

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.

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 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.

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.

Capital District Track Champion Racer Zach Buff Continues To Be A CDRA Title Contender

09/18/25: Zach Buff (01) is a multi-time winner, champion, and title contender. Here he turns timed hot laps at Glen Ridge during Rumble At The Ridge. (Jeremy McGaffin Photo | CDRA 2025)

FONDA, NY – Buff boys have dominated the Ridge for the past five seasons. Big brother Andrew earned three track titles from 2021-2023 with 21 dubs before moving to the DIRTcar 358 Modified division. Now, little brother Zach is flexing his muscle with 17 wins, and just capped off his second consecutive title run. He also races in arguably the toughest Sportsman field weekly at Malta.

Zach Buff has been driving the Ray Sefrin owned West End Towing & Repair, Buff’s Auto Service, and DIG Racing Products 01 Bicknell for five seasons now. Since the day he started racing, he’s earned a Limited Sportsman championship, and followed that up with a pair of Sportsman Modified titles. But, there’s more to this potent pair.

If you add in the wins Zach has earned at Albany-Saratoga Speedway under the Friday Night Lights, this young man is closer to 30 career wins racing for Sefrin. As always, don’t take our word for it. Buff took time out of his busy schedule to tackle a few hot take questions starting with racing with Ray.

“I’ve been racing with Ray since I started. In 2020 I raced my brother’s car one time. The following season in 2021 I began racing in Limited Sportsman at both Albany-Saratoga and Glen Ridge,” Buff began saying. He finished his thoughts with, “Since then I’m not sure the exact number, but I’m sure we are around 30 wins total as a team”.

When you park it in victory lane, championships will happen. After all, you gain the most points possible. It’s just easier and Zach is thankful to have an opportunity to be championship caliber at both his weekly stomping grounds and on the DIRTcar Sportsman tour.

“Ray gives us great equipment. This year was my second Sportsman Modified championship. I also have one Limited Sportsman championship. I’ve won all three at Glen Ridge,” Buff said.

Zach comes from a talented family of racers. His father, Kevin, was an accomplished IMCA Modified racer before stepping aside for the kiddos to take the wheel. Surely there’s a little pressure to follow in the footsteps of his pops and big bro, but Zach seems content carving out his own path.

“My father got me into racing as soon as he could. Growing up he was obviously a big influence on me and my wanting to race. And I was also a big Kenny Tremont Jr. fan,” Zach said.

For two seasons Zach has been top five in JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA series point standings presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply. His only obstacle seems to be the Valley Of Speed. So, what keeps Buff away from the high banks? Let him answer.

He stated, “There’s no particular reason I don’t go to the Valley. Could be scheduling or availability. Nothing against the facility or anyone.”

It’s no doubt if Zach made his way to the valley of speed, he’d be slugging it out with fellow competitors Tim Hartman Jr. and Taylor Wason for a Capital District Racing Association crown. But, respect he has earned either way. He’s a winner, and a champion with one simple goal. Give it his all each and every race.

“I don’t necessarily have any goals set per say, because I like to take it one race at a time. Each race I give it my all and do the best I can,” said Buff proudly.

Gotta admire his efforts, but again that drive and racers ethic stems from proper upbringing in the sport. Poppa Kev has this kid on the right track to continued success and Zach makes sure to mention him first when giving thanks.

Buff said, “I definitely have to start with thanking my dad. The confidence he has in me is proven by the time and effort he puts into racing for me.” He concluded with, “I can’t forget Andrew either. My brother is one of the main reasons we are successful as we are. Finally, last but certainly not least, Ray Sefrin. He gives us great equipment, all the tools we need, and encourages us to have fun while racing.”

Zach also mentioned the support from friends and family drive him to compete at a high level and be a solid racer both on and off the track. Knowing a little about Zach and this brief conversation has proven, he’s a good kid with a good family, and a hall-of-fame car owner. Not hard to understand why they’re at the top of their game. If you want to win a title at The Ridge, history says you have to beat a Buff.

UP NEXT FOR CDRA: Focus is solely on the only points paying event left for Season Two (2025). The Great Crate Race at Albany-Saratoga Friday September 19th as part of the DIRTcar Sportsman Modified Fall Championship Series. Someone will punch their ticket to CDRA title town Friday night.

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

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 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.

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.

The Five: Tim Hartman Jr. Closing In On His First CDRA Title Holding Off Defending Champ Taylor Wason, Sophomore Sensation Tavien Blowers, and NOTY Contender Nick Brundige

09/15/25: Tim Hartman Jr. (22) races with Michael Wagner-Fitzgerald (88) during the Flying Trowel 32 back in July. (Jeremy McGaffin Photo | CDRA 2025)

FONDA, NY – Two of the most prestigious honors a driver can have bestowed upon them from the Capital District Racing Association are a ticket to title town and Newcomer Of The Year. Champ and the NOTY sounds like the beginning of a good racing book, but this Friday at Albany-Saratoga both will be determined in one of the most competitive fields of the season.

It’s time to hit race fans with the next to last edition of ‘The Five’ for Season Two (2025), as the JAM Performance and Consulting CDRA racing series presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply prepares for the Great Crate Race Friday night in Malta, NY at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. The event is also in conjunction with the DIRTcar Sportsman fall championship series.

Tim Hartman Jr: Big Time Little Tim has a small cushion over defending champ Taylor Wason heading into Friday night’s CDRA points championship finale. The Glenville, NY hot shoe has a 28-point leeway and needs only to finish 27th or better to secure the championship. That’s also contingent on the defending champ parking it in victory lane.

Taylor Wason: Speaking of the defending champ, Wason, the ‘Ultimate Underdog’, has defended his Season One (2024) championship valiantly. After claiming the points title without a win, and learning one of the Capital District’s top Sportsman Modified racers was on tour in 2025, he pushed himself to another level overcoming adversity, finding victory lane, and competing for another title.

Tavien Blowers: Last season ‘Taz’ finished 10th in final points after missing the Great Crate Race season finale at Malta. This year he’s stepped up his drive. He almost won the Rumble At The Ridge finishing second respectively, and has taken on the challenge of the great race place. He’ll be on hand Friday to secure his podium points finish if he can hold off the NOTY leader, Nick Brundige.

Nick Brundige: After getting some press for being the sure bet for Season Two (2025) Newcomer Of The Year, one fan commented a reply that read, “Yeah NOTY. Get it!” So, if we’re giving nicknames out, this young man is now known as Nick “NOTY” Brundige. And he’ll already have earned the honor soon as he signs in to compete Friday night no matter his result.

Zach Buff: Out of the top five, Buff is the only enigma. Last season he was a title contender finishing third in points missing only, the Valley race. This season, despite a tough opening points race, he was battling again for a podium points finish until he missed the Valley race. Zach is a legit title contender with the likes of Hartman and Wason, but needs to tame the lady of West Lebanon.

Hard Luck: It’s hard to say ‘hard luck’ when it’s a matter of attendance, but truth be told Connor Crane is another legit title contender if he were to show up and compete at the Ridge. The ‘cardiac kid’ was just 13 points behind the lead when he missed both CDRA points paying races at Glen Ridge Motorsports Park. He returned to tour with another solid run at Lebanon and is sixth in points.

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

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 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.

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.

Tim Hartman Jr Earns Big Red One Hard Charger On His Way To Mr. Crate Track USA Victory At Lebanon Valley

08/28/25: Tim Hartman Jr. (22) races with Tavien Blowers (43) for position during the 20-lap Mr. Crate Track USA feature event. (Bill McGaffin Photo | CDRA 2025)

WEST LEBANON, NY – Mr. Crate Track USA returned to Lebanon Valley Speedway Thursday night and Tim Hartman Jr. stomped the yard for an impressive 20-lap feature victory and extending his CDRA racing series lead with one point paying race left on the 2025 schedule.

Middleburgh, NY racer Connor Prokop and East Greenbush, NY true valley rookie sensation AJ Albreada would lead the field to the green flag where the top spot would be hotly contested early and often. Defending series champion Taylor Wason of Middlegrove, NY took a big swing at the top spot going 3-wide with with the 22a and 12p cars.

Albreada driving his Rob Albreada Snap-On Tools number 22a, pulled a crossover on Wason’s Lenihan Paving 07w machine and assumed the lead. The aforementioned Midtel Solutions 12p of Prokop was left to battle with East Nassau, NY racer Owen Lewis and hard charging series point leader Tim Hartman Jr. who was coming fast with his MRP Companies number 22 Troyer.

After a spirited duel between Albreada, Wason, and Hartman it was TH2 emerging in the top spot by the halfway point in the race. Albreada was secure in second, while Wason found himself in a battle with Prokop, Brookfield, CT racer Nick Giardini, and Raymertown, NY racer Dylan Grogan for top five positions.

Otis, MA racer Ray Hall Jr. was on the move from his 13th starting position with his Gary J. O’Brien Property Services 57. Hall was one of three drivers to improve six positions while earning a top 10 finish, with the other two being Tim Hartman Jr. and Nick Giardini. Hartman would be awarded the Big Red One Hard Charger by virtue of his win.

For Hartman it was another trip to victory lane, as he picked up the Mr. Crate Track USA win. It was his 4th CDRA racing series win, which is more than any other competitor in two seasons of Capital District Racing Association competition.

Rounding out the top five were AJ Albreada, Connor Prokop, Nick Giardini, and Taylor Wason. Albreada was awarded Newcomer Of The Race for his second-place finish.

NOTES: At Mr. Crate Track USA, it’s important to note the efforts by Caroga Lake, NY racer Tavien Blowers. The CDRA regular earned a 10th place finish respectively after starting 15th and moved into third in series standings. Round Lake, NY racer Nick Brundige was also on hand at Lebanon Valley Speedway, as he’s been a welcomed addition to the regulars this season. Brundige earned a 15th place finish respectively and moved into fourth in series standings just 9 points behind Blowers.

TITLE WATCH: Tim Hartman Jr. is one race away from securing the Season Two (2025) JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA racing series presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply title. After his Mr. Crate Track USA win, TH2 extended his point lead to 28 over defending series champion Taylor Wason. Speaking of Wason, he has without question silenced his critics. Still mathematically in the hunt for the championship, Taylor earned a tour win and has gone Hoosier-to-Hoosier with red hot Hartman for the series crown. No matter how it shakes out at Albany-Saratoga for Malta Massive Weekend, Wason has been a worthy champion.

UP NEXT FOR CDRA: The series heads back to Albany-Saratoga Speedway on Friday September 19th for the Great Crate Classic at Malta Massive Weekend. It’s also part of the DIRTcar Sportsman Fall Championship series meaning the competition will be fierce.

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

08/28/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Joe Wilkinson & Sons Excavating Mr. Crate Track USA Feature Results (20 Laps): 1. 22-Tim Hartman Jr [7]; 2. 22a-AJ Albreada [2]; 3. 12p-Connor Prokop [1]; 4. 399-Nick Giardini [10]; 5. 07w-Taylor Wason [3]; 6. 34-Dylan Grogan [6]; 7. 57-Ray Hall Jr [13]; 8. 7s-Michael Sabia [8]; 9. 7c-Brady Cordova [9]; 10. 43-Tavien Blowers [15]; 11. 85-Justin Gozzi [14]; 12. 711-Chris Crane Jr [4]; 13. 19-Owen Lewis [5]; 14. 711x-Connor Crane [11]; 15. 916-Nick Brundige [18]; 16. 5ej-EJ Gallup [21]; 17. 611-John Agor [19]; 18. 307-Karl Barnes [17]; 19. 61-Alex Palmer-Sawyer [20]; 20. 313-Cam Van Zandt [16]; 21. 96-Anthony Maxon [12].

J-Tees Screen Printing Fast Timer: Dylan Grogan (22.437)
Big Red One Hard Charger: Tim Hartman Jr. (7th to 1st)
Newcomer of the Race: AJ Albreada (2nd)
Lap Leaders: AJ Albreada (1-7) & Tim Hartman Jr. (8-20)
Outstanding Performance: Nick Giardini (4th)
Who Finished Fifth: Taylor Wason

08/28/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Joe Wilkinson & Sons Excavating Mr. Crate Track USA Heat Race #1 Results (8 Laps): 1. 22-AJ Albreada[3]; 2. 711X-Connor Crane[1]; 3. 34-Dylan Grogan[7]; 4. 7S-Michael Sabia[4]; 5. 57-Ray Hall Jr[5]; 6. 313-Cam Van Zandt[2]; 7. 916-Nick Brundige[6].

08/28/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Joe Wilkinson & Sons Excavating Mr. Crate Track USA Heat Race #2 Results (8 Laps): 1. 12P-Connor Prokop[1]; 2. 711C-Chris Crane Jr[3]; 3. 96-Anthony Maxon[4]; 4. 19-Owen Lewis[2]; 5. 85-Justin Gozzi[5]; 6. 5EJ-EJ Gallup[7]; 7. 611-John Agor[6].

08/28/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Joe Wilkinson & Sons Excavating Mr. Crate Track USA Heat Race #3 Results (8 Laps): 1. 22H-Tim Hartman Jr[3]; 2. 7C-Brady Cordova[2]; 3. 07W-Taylor Wason[5]; 4. 399-Nick Giardini[7]; 5. 43-Tavien Blowers[1]; 6. 307-Karl Barnes[4]; 7. 61-Alex Palmer Sawyer[6].

08/28/25 JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA Racing Presented By Elmo’s Speed Supply | Joe Wilkinson & Sons Excavating Mr. Crate Track USA Hot Lap/Fast Time Results (3 Laps): 1. 34-Dylan Grogan (22.437); 2. 7C-Brady Cordova (22.444); 3. 711-Chris Crane Jr (22.481); 4. 07W-Taylor Wason (22.508); 5. 399-Nick Giardini (22.563); 6. 22a-AJ Albreada (22.618); 7. 22-Tim Hartman Jr (22.774); 8. 96-Anthony Maxon (22.788); 9. 7s-Michael Sabia (22.842); 10. 12p-Connor Prokop (22.847); 11. 57-Ray Hall Jr (22.900); 12. 307-Karl Barnes (22.963); 13. 611-John Agor (22.967); 14. 711x-Connor Crane (22.976); 15. 313-Cam Van Zandt (22.996); 16. 43-Tavien Blowers (23.025); 17. 5EJ-EJ Gallup (23.035); 18. 61-Alex Palmer-Sawyer (23.129); 19. 19-Owen Lewis (23.140); 20. 916-Nick Brundige (23.148); 21. 85-Justin Gozzi (23.188).

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 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.

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 Race Day At Lebanon Valley Speedway With Sportsman Modifieds For Mr. Crate Track USA

08/28/25: Owen Lewis (19), Dylan Grogan (34), and Craig Wholey (98) race for qualifying position at Lebanon Valley Speedway. (Gabrielle’s Photo | LVS 2025)

WEST LEBANON, NY – Tonight, in the valley of speed the JAM Performance CDRA Racing Series points championship presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply rolls into Lebanon Valley Speedway for Mr. Crate Track USA joining an action-packed race card featuring the Super DIRTcar Big Block Modified Series and DIRTcar Pro Stocks.

Lebanon Valley Speedway is hosting the annual Mr. Dirt Track Super DIRTcar Big Block Modified Series event that pays a staggering $15,500 to the winner. During the program also featured are the stars and cars of the CDRA Sportsman Modified Series racing for a $1,000 to win payday. It will be a full draw/redraw format for the Sportsman competitors.

For the CDRA Sportsman Modified Series it’s the second appearance at the West Lebanon, NY dirt racing facility. Last season the Fireworks & Freedom race ran during Halloween in August, with Tim Hartman Jr. picking up the win. The second CDRA event at the valley was scheduled to be a companion race for Mr. Dirt Track, but it was rained out making tonight the official return of Mr. Crate Track USA.

Heading into racing action on Thursday August 28th Glenville, NY racer Tim Hartman Jr. holds a 22-point lead over defending series champion Taylor Wason of Middlegrove, NY. Rounding out the top five in points are Amsterdam, NY racer Zach Buff, Caroga Lake, NY racer Tavien Blowers, and Round Lake, NY racer Nick Brudige who also leads all drivers for Newcomer Of The Year honors.

“Our season is winding down and it’s still anybody’s title to earn. However it shakes out I’m proud of these drivers. Timmy has proven himself arguably the most dominant wheelman in the Capital District. Taylor has defended his championship valiantly. Tavien is in the mix for a title for the second consecutive year. Zach remains consistent. And Nick is a refreshing surprise in the NOTY battle. Season two has lived up to the hype,” said competition director Rob Hazer.

UP NEXT FOR CDRA: After Mr. Crate Track USA the CDRA series heads back to the great race place, Albany-Saratoga Speedway on Friday September 19th for the Great Crate Classic points finale, which also is part of the DIRTcar Sportsman Fall Championship series.

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 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.

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.

Tavien Blowers Understands The Hustle And Is Building His Racing Legacy One Lap At A Time

08/24/25: Tavien Blowers takes hot laps at Glen Ridge during Rumble At The Ridge DIRTcar/CDRA event in August. (Showstopper Photo | CDRA 2025)

CAROGA LAKE, NY – Tavien Blowers has faithfully chased the CDRA series title for two seasons now. He’s a fresh face to the racing scene behind the wheel, but no stranger to the Capital District dirt track community. He’s coming off back-to-back top five finishes heading into Mr. Crate Track USA at Lebanon Valley where he looks to gain more valuable seat time.

The Caroga Lake, NY racer spent several years gaining racing experience through the go-kart ranks, which he eventually progressed into Sling Shot Racing. Then it was time, as Tavien made the move into open wheel Sportsman Modified racing where he’s quickly become a front runner weekly at The Ridge.

But it’s his aspirations and dedication to improving that makes him a quick success story. Following the JAM Performance & Consulting CDRA racing series presented by Elmo’s Speed Supply is a great way to gain valuable experience on vastly different and challenging track configurations. Something he admires about his favorites that inspire him to achieve his goals.

“Growing up it was hard not to be influenced by Stewart Friesen and his success,” Blowers started with saying. “But lately, I find myself looking up to guys like Jack Lehner and Alex Yankowski. They are young guns in the sport just trying to prove themselves, like me,” he continued.

Something that some folks may not know, is Tavien Blowers isn’t just admiring others and trying to draw inspiration from his fellow young guns’ success, but he also truly wishes good fortune upon them. Take for example his friend and DIRTcar Modified racer at Brewerton Speedway, Kyle Devendorf.

“My friend Kyle Devendorf has been helping me when I need it. He’s a young driver like me and has been really successful in his short time with Modified racing. He won a race at Brewerton already this year and I’m excited to see what the future holds for him,” Blowers said excitedly.

Tavien opened eyes during CDRA Season One (2024) finishing 10th in final point standings. He started five of the six scheduled events, with his best finish coming in the Montgomery County Brawl on July 28, 2024, when he finished second.

This season he’s back in the hunt once again building a legacy within the CDRA universe. He started the six race points chase with a pair of tough finishes at Albany-Saratoga, but pulled himself back into contention with a pair of top five finishes at Glen Ridge in this year’s Montgomery County Brawl and Rumble At The Ridge.

How Blowers got to where he is now, is a tale old as time. His pops had connections and brought his young padawan along to get a taste. Now, he has an appetite for acceleration.

Tavien explained, “My dad got me involved in racing. Remembering back we used to crew for the Romano’s and family friend Joe Rando on his Sportsman. From that point, I’ve always had love for the sport.”

And choosing the 43 branded number for the young hot shoe from the lake came down to a bit nostalgia mixed with owner input.

“I grew up racing using the number 44 or 1. So, when I got offered my Sportsman Modified ride the car owner (Mark O’Connor) wasn’t fond of 44. Then we just subtracted 1 from 44 and ran with 43. Plus, my teammate Tucker O’Connor is 42 so it worked out perfect,” explained Blowers.

One thing for absolute certainty, he has a bright future as a wheelman. He’s already had success, he’s not afraid to challenge himself, and he set obtainable goals. All can be achieved with hard work, dedication, and sacrifice sprinkled with a little bit of good fortune.

“Before I hang up the fire suit, I want to win a tour race (DIRTcar or CDRA) and compete for a track championship. Of course, I’d love to run a Big Block Modified if our program progressed to that level and we had the backing,” Blowers began saying about the subject.

He finished his thought saying, “Even if I ever had to hang up the helmet, I don’t think I could just walk away from the sport. I would find a role on someone’s team. I would want to stay involved in racing no doubt.”

An admirable young man fans should know. Once they do, they’ll find it hard not to cheer for the 43 to park it in victory lane. And when he does, which no doubt he will one day, he’ll have some folks to thank.

“I have a lot of people to thank. I’d like to thank my marketing partners O’Connor’s Towing and Automotive, Miracle Ear, Elmue Farms, New Image Lawn Care, Superior Modular Homes, Charlie Johns Store, Livingston Furniture, Oxbow Inn, and Executive Electric. They help get us to the track and I can’t thank them enough,” said Blowers about his financial supporters.

Tavien concluded by thanking family saying, “I can’t forget to thank my dad (Terry), mom (Jennifer), sister (Sadie), Uncle Chucky, Uncle Mike, and Uncle Sparky. I couldn’t do it without them and their support. And everyone else that gives a helping hand when needed. It’s a total team effort.”

For more information on Tavien’s racing triumphs and tribulations at tracks in and around the Capital District visit Tavien Blowers Motorsports on Social Media or see him race weekly at Glen Ridge Motorsports Park.

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.

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

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 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.

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.

Nick Brundige Has Emerged Front Runner For CDRA Racing Newcomer Of The Year Honors

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.

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

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 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.

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.