The Vault
WISSOTA Late Models get tire rule in northeastern Wisconsin
Posted on: Monday September 14, 2020
ATTENTION SPORTS DEPARTMENT/MOTORSPORTS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARCH 18, 2004
ANTIGO, WI – WISSOTA late model drivers at the three sanctioned tracks in Northeastern Wisconsin will see a slight modification to their rules in 2004 as promoters in the region have adopted a right rear tire rule.
Beginning with the season opener at the Shawano Speedway, which tentatively is set for April 10th, all drivers will be required to use a D30 or harder Hoosier tire on the right rear for all events held. This rule is similar to other tracks within WISSOTA and was adopted to save drivers money.
“It’s probably one of the easiest ways to cut down on the costs for drivers,” said Shawano Speedway General Manager Dale Hodkiewicz. “Guys were using soft tires on their cars for the feature and burning them right off. That’s about $120 per night. The harder tire will definitely keep some of the cost down.”
The rule was adopted during the same meeting which created the TRI-TRACK CHALLENGE for WISSOTA late models. Promoters are hoping that there will be more crossover in drivers racing at the Langlade County Speedway in Antigo, Shawano, and the Seymour Tri-oval Raceway. The Seubert Calf Ranches/Gold Star Racing Supplies sponsored program will crown a champion between the three tracks at the end of the year.
“We want the guys to race as much as they can but do it within the confines of their budget,” said Mark Johnson, race director at the Langlade County Speedway. “To run that late model three nights a week is tough. To do it for about $200 cheaper per week will only promote drivers to try and race more. It will also level the playing field even more giving more guys a shot a winning.”
The key component to the rule change may be the competition. In the past it may have been a new soft tire that won a driver the feature race that night. That could change now.
“I think it really puts a twist on the whole thing,” said Ed Bertram of Gold Star Racing Supplies. “The draw will still be important but it may not be the best funded drivers winning all the time. That right rear tire is important. It can be very important. This will help in that area.”
For more information on the change contact any of the three tracks or Gold Star Racing Supplies at (800) 782-7072.