When NASCAR announced the demise of the Elite Series at the end of the 2006 season, many racers, crews, sponsors and tracks scrambled to keep the group alive in the Northwest. Initial efforts were not as successful as many had hoped. On the evening of January 13, 2007, a group of interested promoters, car owners, fans and sponsors held a very successful meeting. Over 150 people enjoyed a night of an excellent banquet, an hour of open mike discussion and bench racing and dancing until the wee hours.
Because of this varied group of interested parties and their commitment and participation, the Northwest tour will continue in 2007 and beyond. Yakima Speedway has set three dates, Joe Doellefeld at State Line Speedway signed up for two events. Garrett Evans from Wenatchee Valley Super Oval has expressed an interest in a date and another facility in the Northwest is considering the possibility of two events. Five events are on the calendar with more hoped for in the very near future.
Shasta Raceway Park has announced SRL events for 2007 with the possibility of a Northwest, Southwest Shootout slated for October 20, 21, 2007. This will allow the Southwest and Northwest Tour teams venues to utilize their existing equipment. It is the desire of both groups to have cooperation between the racers to support both efforts.
The overwhelming comment at the meeting was to keep the rules as close as possible to the existing package for 2007, and to address the costs etc. for 2008 and beyond. A competition committee was formed at the meeting. Jim Milkelson, Melinda Moulaison and Gib Repass were chosen to represent the series. Ron Bennett will be the interim Series Administrator. Race day procedures will be handled by Jim Mikelson and his crew.
Two companies gave pledges for a year end point fund. More funds will be solicited as the program moves forward.
The Tour teams can now move forward with plans knowing that at least five events are signed on and more are in the works. With the Southwest dates and events in the North the teams will have ample opportunity to use their equipment and race in a professional, well run series.
As the hardworking group moves forward to make this happen, more exciting announcements will be made. The five dates are firm and more are expected and hoped for. Further news and dates will be forthcoming shortly as contracts are signed and details are worked out.
Any questions can be directed to any of the group involved and Ted Pollock of Yakima Speedway and Joe Doellefeld of Stateline Speedway.
Northwest Tour Media
Contacts – Jim Mlkelson –jimmikelson@wmconnect.com
Melinda Moulaison – northwrac@aol.com
Gib Repass – gibrepass@aol.com
Ron Bennett – racerron@elltel.net
Ted Pollock – spdwy123@comcast.net
Joe Doellefeld – joedoellefeld@aol.com
