It’s been a long time since we entered the Bakersfield Speedway pits, and it was great to be back! Scott Sweitzer the new Promotor/General Manager, had the place all spiffed up and the welcome out for the returning wingless 410’s.
Once inside the pits, it was time to pass our “Wags Money” from last week’s Lil’ & Big Dawg Dashes, plus monies added to the regular USAC/CRA Main Event. Evelyn Pratt seemed pretty enthused to receive an envelope for Greg’s 6th place finish in the Big Dawg Dash.
Ronnie Gardner rips into the “Gardner Boyz” winnings” for the Pit Stop Contest at the Chili Feed, while Blake and Chet look on. Nadine Keller received $300 for taking the “Sexiest Driver” sash away from last year’s winner, Alan Ballard.
The racetrack hasn’t changed much since we were last here. Here is a shot of the frontstretch taken from where the cars exit the track at turn one.
The cars don’t pit in the infield, thus it stays uncluttered. Watching the “pit action” is an interesting part of the show, but not all tracks are set up to accommodate the cars, and especially the haulers, in the infield.
This shot of turn one gives an idea of the banking on the track.
The grandstands are unusual, but fan friendly. We usually sit on the top row in a lawn chair, which is very comfortable.
The cars exit the track through an opening at turn one (similar to Tulare).
The water truck sends a spray onto the track. Although most of the day was under a cloud cover, they made sure the track was plenty wet. Even then, it had dryed out by Main Event time and the fans were lightly “dusted,” causing some to scurry for a dust-free zone. What do people expect at a dirt track?
Glenn Crossno’s new trailer, is large and impressive! You can’t miss it even with the trees in front of it.
Glenn Crossno seemed to get a kick out of pushing the button that raised the #38 car up and down – men and their toys!
The Jory team parked at the end of the same row as Crossno. Not much room left over with those two huge trailers!
Wags continues playing Santa Claus as he stops by and gives Jim Blakesly a couple of envelops with some cash to share with driver, Ronnie Case, who was the “Wagsdash” winner in the Main Event and also placed 2nd in the Lil’ Dawg Dash.
Bobby Cody scored a little extra bonus in his envelope – a free night’s stay at Phoenix during the Western World, compliments of Julie Shiosaki and Anchors Away Travel!
Chet Gardner works on one of the Gardner entries. I bet the Gardner “men” are enjoying having the Gardner “boys” around to do a lot of the bending, stooping, lifting and pushing!
Bud Kaeding dropped in from NorCal for a little practice before the Oval Nationals and took home a second place trophy and a little cash for his effort.
The Chaffin crew gets the car ready for Damion, who placed third in the Main.
The drivers’ meeting must have been really interesting!
With Ventura rained out on this night, Brother Brett was at Bakersfield, along with other familiar faces from Ventura Raceway. Brother Brett earned a little “Wags Money,” for being such a good sport at the Chili Feed, and entertaining everyone.
It’s time to hit the track! Jordan Hermansader is seated in the Alexander Motorsports #4X waiting for someone to give him a push.
Cory Kruseman puts tear-offs on his helmet minutes before climbing into the “other” #4 Alexander car.
The Alexander brothers, Mark and Steve, are hurriedly working on something before push off time.
Cars are being pushed off for wheel-packing.
More cars are ready to go, and crew members are heading for the pit grandstands.
Norm’s daughter, Debbie, who lives in Bakersfield, was there along with son Ryan, and a darling little houseguest, Zaidie.
Four year old Zaidie seemed to enjoy her first race!
It was great to see Don and Nancy O’Brien, who now live in Fresno. Nancy is retired and loving every minute of it!
Mike Seiffert (Hoseheads West) was sans camera this weekend, and gave Mrs. Wags a few photography tips. I appreciate the help, but I need more than just tips. I need to take a course! Thanks, Mike.
Dave Vodden stopped by and visited with Wags for a few minutes.
Bobby Michnowicz was all smiles in victory circle, along with Larry Otani, following his Ford Focus win! Good job, Bobby!
Mike Mosier interviews a very happy Bobby.
Casie Kruseman steals the show away from daddy, Cory, and announcer Mike!
Bud Kaeding is interviewed for his second place win.
Still pooped from Wagsdash weekend, Wags and Dusty took a little snooze when we got home. Notice Dusty sleeps on a pillow. Ohhhh….Spoiled? Not! They should be all rested up for the Oval Nationals! See you next weekend!
