Super DIRT Week Kicks Off with Pennsylvania Races

GEDDES, New York — Super DIRT Week is in full swing as the annual event continues to grow since its inception in 1972. Glenn Donnelly first organized a 100-mile race at the New York State fairgrounds, leading to the creation of what is now the Super DIRTcar Series.

The series has evolved significantly over the years, with multiple qualifying races leading to the main event at Oswego Speedway in October. The finale features the Billy Whittaker Cars 200, where the prize money makes it the richest big-block modified race in the United States.

Two drivers, Brett Hearn and Matt Sheppard, have historically dominated the series, each securing 10 championships. Hearn has 141 wins and Sheppard 99, while Stewart Friesen remains a contender with 49 feature victories.

After four-point races this season, the standings reveal some new challengers. Current point leader Alex Yankowski, who is also the defending champion, is aiming for an additional title. Mat Williamson, a two-time champion, is also in contention.

This week, Super DIRTcar Series held two events in Pennsylvania. The Big Diamond Speedway in Minnersville kicked things off on Tuesday with a 75-lap feature race. Ryan Godown clinched victory there, marking his second Super DIRT Series win, followed by Yankowski, Alex Payne, Williamson, and Sheppard, who faced mechanical issues.

The next night, the series moved to Selingsgrove Speedway for another 75-lap race worth $10,000 and a guaranteed starting position at Oswego. Stewart Friesen took home the win, securing his spot in the Billy Whittaker Cars 200 on October 11, with Yankowski, Williamson, Payne, and Jimmy Phelps rounding out the top five.

As for other events, the Oswego Speedway is temporarily inactive this weekend, but ISMA supermodifieds will race on Friday at Delaware, Ontario, and Saturday at Lancaster Speedway near Buffalo, with each winner receiving a $6,000 prize. Local favorite Andy Jankowiak is set to compete in Lancaster.