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Brentwood athlete earns spot on 2024 U.S. Olympic Taekwondo team

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80Kg Gold Medalist Carl CJ Nickolas’ first flag run after he won the Taekwondo competition at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games October 22, 2023 in Santiago, Chile. Photo by Mark Reis, USOPC.

Former Heritage High student ranked #2 in the world

By Allen D. Payton

Former Brentwood resident and Heritage High student, Carl “CJ” Nickolas, has earned one of two spots for men on the U.S. Taekwondo team for the 2024 Olympics in Paris next summer. It follows him earning several medals this year. In June he won silver at the 2023 World Taekwondo Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan. It was the first U.S. male taekwondo medal at the World Championships since 2009.

In addition, CJ won gold at the Pan American Games 2023 in Santiago, Chile in October, gold at the President’s Cup Pan America in Rio de Janeiro in September, and this month won bronze at the World Taekwondo Grand Prix 2023 Final in Manchester, England. He competes in the -80 kg division and as of October, CJ was ranked #3 in the world in the sport but is now #2.

According to the World Taekwondo Federation during his competition at this year’s Grand Prix Final, “In the bronze medal match…CJ Nickolas of the USA won bronze after facing Jordan’s two-time Grand Prix gold medalist and (Tokyo 2020 Olympic silver medalist) Saleh Elsharabaty. The American kicked off the scoring with two push kicks to the body and later extended his lead in the closing 15 seconds with a head kick to take round one 8-2. Before contesting the second round, Elsharabaty, who had been struggling physically in the first round, conceded the match to Nickolas.”

“It was the event that qualified me for the Olympics,” CJ shared.

The 22-year-old, 6-foot-3½-inch athlete was a student at Heritage High School in Brentwood where he competed in track. Until he turned 18, CJ was trained by his father, Ed Givans, who previously owned Givans Taekwondo in Antioch but relocated to Las Vegas a few years ago. Yet, CJ credits his mother, Denise Nickolas, as his biggest inspiration. She still lives in Brentwood while their son has been living and training in Colorado since 2019 where he was a member of the USATKD Academy team. CJ recently moved to North Carolina where he trains at the United States Performance Center.

CJ started taekwondo at age three with his whole family and began competing at age six but started to become serious about the sport around age 11. He has a history of experience and victories in his career which includes participation at the 2019 and 2022 World Championships, the 2022 Paris Grand Prix where he won bronze, and the 2021 and 2022 Pan American Championships in Cancún, Mexico and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, respectively, at which he won back-to-back gold medals. CJ also won gold at the 2021 Junior Pan American Games held in Cali, Colombia.

“I won three bronze medals at the Grand Prix, which is a series of four competitions, this year,” he shared. “We knew going into the finals, all I needed to do was to have a solid performance, to qualify for the Olympic team. I was already locked in, and number two in the world.”

“But me being me, I wanted to make a statement,” CJ said with a laugh. “I had lost in the semi-finals. It was repachage, which allowed me to fight again for the bronze medal. Elsharabaty and I had been in the same division for so long but that was the first time we fought.”

CJ Nickolas of Team USA took the Gold Medal in 80Kg Taekwondo competition bites his medal Rafael Nadal-style at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games October 22, 2023, in Santiago, Chile. Photo by Mark Reis, USOPC.

“At this point I think I’ve beaten all the top guys in the division,” he stated. Except the number one ranked athlete, Simone Alessio of Italy.

CJ lost to him at the World Championships. Asked if he expects to face him again at the Olympics, CJ said with a chuckle, “I’ll either catch him at the semi-finals or finals – if he makes it.”

He has an older sister who is supportive of him, just like his parents.

“And my coach, as well, Gareth Brown, who I’ve been with since 2019. He’s been imperative to my development as an athlete and as a man, from age 17 to now. He’s British and moved his entire family to America to serve the team. He was originally the coach for the British Olympic Taekwondo team and was at the forefront of the development of the academy program in Colorado.”

CJ on the medal stand at the World Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan in May 2023. Photo by Jose Villalpando, U.S. Performance Center

Mom, Denise was asked if she’ll be attending the Olympic games next summer to watch her son in person.

“You bet. I wouldn’t miss it,” she replied. “His competition is Friday, August 9, 2024. Near the Champs-Elysées in the heart of Paris.”

“The whole experience has been surreal,” Denise stated. “Am I super surprised? No. CJ has always been the hardest working person I know. He’s always said this is where he’d end up. So, here we are.”

She referred to a 2020 Herald article (AH) which mentioned him preparing for the 2020, then the 2024 or 2028 Olympics.

2020 Herald article (CCH)

“It’s definitely not luck,” she continued. “He’s worked his butt off all these years. I’m pretty proud of him.”

“You know it’s always been a dream of his and his will is greater than anything,” Dad, Ed stated. “He was supposed to go to the Olympics in 2020 but he grew from 5’10” to over 6’3” and he couldn’t hold the weight for his division. Then they extended the Olympics for a year because of COVID and there was no way he was going to be able to hold that weight for a year.”

“Then they told him he was going to be too small for the -80 kg division and now he’s number two in the world,” Givans shared. “So, I made a movie about the two of us entitled ‘The Journey of Dreams’ about me overcoming PTSD and him making his way to the Olympics. We’re waiting for the outcome next summer before finishing the film.”

Asked if he’s going to the Olympics to watch his son Givans said simply, “I’m going.”

“I’m just proud of him. He’s worked so hard for it,” he continued. “Going to the Olympics is extremely hard. They only take two men and two women from each team except the host country’s team. In 2028 since we’re hosting the Olympics, we can take four each. But being in the top two in the U.S. is extremely hard.”

CJ takes it all in following his quarter final match at the World Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan in May 2023. Photo by Jose Villalpando, U.S. Performance Center

CJ has his own Wikipedia page and athlete’s page on the Team USA website, where more photos can be viewed of the athlete in action. He has a rare anomaly in his C1 vertebrae called “os odontoideum” yet, it hasn’t stopped CJ from competing. His hobbies include film analysis, photography and singing.

CJ offered “A big thank you to my family and all those who supported me over the years. I could not be here without my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.”

“I feel like I’m watching my own journey roll out. I’m having so much fun,” he continued. “It’s so entertaining to see where God puts me with the people I meet.”

“I just want to be the best person I can be and keep working as hard as I can, so I can continue to be blessed with these opportunities,” CJ added.

Antioch Speedway: DeCarlo, Foulger, Garner, Ryan winners on Bill Bowers Memorial Weekend

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Nick DeCarlo #17 turned in a stellar effort to win the Saturday IMCA Modified race. Photo by Katrina Kniss

By Candice Martin, DCRR Racing Media

Antioch, CA…October 20-21…Nick DeCarlo of Martinez and Troy Foulger of Oakley were the winners in IMCA Modified competition last weekend at Antioch Speedway. This was the Annual Bill Bowers Memorial/West Coast Nationals race with the Friday portion also paying tribute to legend JD Willis.

Car count dictated an adjustment to the show that saw two complete programs run on Friday and Saturday with the intended purse on Saturday split between the two nights. This put $1,000 into the pockets of Saturday winner DeCarlo and Friday winner Foulger, who came close to picking up the Saturday win as well.

Troy Foulger #49 picked up a JD Willis trophy for his Friday night IMCA Modified triumph. He is unofficially one win shy of 70 combined on the all-time win list at Antioch Speedway. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Both nights ran two sets of heat races for each division with the points adding up to set the lineups for the feature races. State champion Andrew Pearce took the early lead of the Saturday IMCA Modified feature ahead of Kellen Chadwick of Oakley. Foulger was running third until a Lap 11 yellow flag for debris. Pearce continued to lead Chadwick with DeCarlo moving into third. When Pearce got out of shape exiting Turn 2 on the 12th lap, DeCarlo ducked low and emerged with the lead. Foulger followed closely into second. Foulger kept the pressure on DeCarlo until making the outside pass in Turn 4 on Lap 18 to grab the lead. DeCarlo stayed low and emerged with the lead in the same turn a lap later. The battle remained intense until the checkered flag with DeCarlo winning ahead of Foulger, Chadwick, Pearce and Tim Balding of Prunedale.

On Friday night, DeCarlo paced just one lap before an inside pass on the back stretch put Foulger in command. DeCarlo briefly gained the lead on Lap 14 before Foulger was back up front on Lap 15. A yellow flag also waved at that point for debris on the track. Foulger led DeCarlo and Pearce on the restart. They ran in that order to the checkered flag as Chadwick and Jim Pettit II of Prunedale rounded out the Top 5.

Mark Garner #76 finally returned to the IMCA Sport Modified winner’s circle with his Bowers Memorial win on Saturday night. Photo by Katrina Kniss

In IMCA Sport Modified competition, it was Mark Garner of Antioch picking up the win on Saturday with the Friday victory going to Jason Ryan Jr of Oakley. The wins paid both drivers $750. Garner had finished third on Friday night.

On Saturday, State champion Trevor Clymens of Brentwood set the early pace with Garner making an inside pass on the back stretch on the sixth lap to take second from Ryan. Garner went inside Clymens on the back stretch on Lap 7 to take the lead from him. The race was riddled with yellow flags during the second half. A heated incident between Tommy Fraser of Antioch and Ryan saw the race end for both of them. Through each yellow flag, Garner emerged with the lead and picked up a much deserved victory ahead of Clymens, Dylan Connelly of Antioch, Johnathan Hagio of Prunedale and Matt Pitts of Rodeo.

Jason Ryan Jr #52 picked up a JD Willis trophy with his IMCA Sport Modified win on Friday night. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Ryan enjoyed a stellar season with second place rankings at Antioch and in the State. Heat race points put him on the front row for the Friday show, and he bolted into the lead at the start ahead of Trevor Clymens. An inside move down the back stretch on Lap 6 put three-time champion Fred Ryland of Brentwood into second. Garner moved into third on a Lap 9 restart. With Ryland in pursuit, Ryan had to make the right moves on multiple restarts during the second half of the race. However, Ryan prevailed over Ryland at the checkered flag. Garner settled for third ahead of Raymond Lindeman of Rio Linda and Trevor Clymens.

Antioch and State champion Troy Foulger of Oakley picked up $500 IMCA Stock Car victories on both Friday and Saturday night as he nudges closer to 70 combined wins all time at Antioch Speedway.

Troy Foulger #49 turned in a repeat performance with IMCA Stock Car wins on both Friday and Saturday nights. Photos by Katrina Kniss

Fred Ryland of Brentwood paced the opening lap of the Saturday race with Foulger getting around Mitch Machado of Rohnert Park on the second lap. Foulger and Ryland briefly went side by side before Foulger emerged with the lead on the fifth lap. From there, Foulger sped on to the win ahead of Ryland, Dave Hill of South San Francisco, Machado and Scott Foster of Oakley.

Points from the heat races put Foulger on the front row and he led the Friday portion of the show from the start. Ryland was a race-long second. Machado was an early third, but Terry DeCarlo Jr of Martinez gained the position on the ninth lap. Foulger won ahead of Ryland, DeCarlo, Machado and Dave Hill.

Track champion Grayson Baca #31b picked up the Friday night Hobby Stock win. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Jared Baugh of Pittsburgh and track champion Grayson Baca of Brentwood picked up the Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stock feature wins for the weekend. Baugh didn’t show up on Friday but picked up the Saturday win in impressive fashion.

Baugh took the lead from the start ahead of Troy Foulger, who was piloting the car originally intended for Mya Jones of Martinez. Baca held third in the early stages, but Foulger brought out a yellow flag on Lap 6. Baugh led Baca on the restart with Kevin Brown of Oakley running third. Jake Archibald of Oakley slipped past Brown for third on the ninth lap, and Baca brought out a Lap 11 yellow flag. Baugh continued to lead Archibald and Brown On the restart. Archibald was trailing by a straightaway when his race came to an unfortunate end three laps for the finish. Baugh cruised to victory ahead of Brown, Trevor Clymens, Baca and Archibald.

Jared Baugh #31b only raced on Saturday, but that was good enough for a Hobby Stock feature win. Photo by Katrina Kniss

On Friday night, Baca took the lead from the start ahead of Trevor Clymens. Foulger moved past Brown for third on Lap 3 before a yellow flag waved. Foulger moved into second on the restart with Tommy Clymens settling into third. Baca held command by a wide margin when the checkered flag flew, followed by Foulger, Tommy Clymens, Brown and Jess Paladino of Brentwood.

On Halloween weekend, there will be candy for the kids. The Xtreme Late Models, Super Stocks and Hardtops will be having their season point finales. Wingless Spec Sprints and Print Club Mini Stocks are also in action. For further information, go to www.raceantiochspeedway.com or check out the Antioch Speedway by PROmotions Facebook page.

Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023 Race Results

IMCA Modifieds

Heat Winners Round 1 (10 laps)-Kellen Chadwick, Andrew Pearce. Heat Winners Round 2 (10 laps)-Kellen Chadwick, Andrew Pearce. Main Event (25 laps)-Nick DeCarlo, Troy Foulger, Kellen Chadwick, Andrew Pearce, Tim Balding, Aaron Crowell, Mickey Hill, Jim Pettit II, Dave Duste Jr, Matthew Hagio DNS.

IMCA Sport Modifieds

Heat Winners Round 1 (10 laps)-Mark Garner, Jason Ryan Jr. Heat Winners Round 2 (10 laps)-Mark Garner, Trevor Clymens. Main Event (25)-Mark Garner, Trevor Clymens, Dylan Connelly, Jonathan Hagio, Matt Pitts, Tommy Clymens, Al Johnson, James Graessle, Tommy Fraser, Jason Ryan Jr.

IMCA Stock Cars

Heat Winner Round 1 (10 laps)-Dave Hill. Heat Winner Round 2 (10 laps)-Mitch Machado. Main Event (25 laps)-Troy Fougler, Fred Ryland, Dave Hill, Mitch Machado, Scott Foster, Jason Robles DNS.

Hobby Stocks

Heat Winners Round 1 (10 laps)-Kevin Brown Jared Baugh. Heat Winners Round 2 (10 laps)-Kevin Brown, Grayson Baca. Main Event (25 laps)-Jared Baugh, Kevin Brown, Trevor Clymens, Grayson Baca, Jake Archibald, John Keith, Kamren Robles, Jess Paladino, Troy Foulger, Tommy Clymens.

Friday, Oct. 20, 2023 Race Results

IMCA Modifieds

Heat Winner Round 1 (10 laps)-Troy Foulger, Andrew Pearce. Heat Winners Round 2 (10 laps)-Kellen Chadwick, Nick DeCarlo. Main Event (25 laps)-Troy Foulger, Nick DeCarlo, Andrew Pearce, Kellen Chadwick, Jim Pettit II, Tim Balding, Aaron Crowell, Paul Gugliemoni, Matthew Hagio, Dave Duste Jr.

IMCA Sport Modifieds

Heat Winners Round 1 (10 laps)-Trevor Clymens, Jason Ryan Jr. Heat Winners Round 2 (10 laps)-Jonathan Hagio, Fred Ryland. Main Event (25 laps)-Jason Ryan Jr, Fred Ryland, Mark Garner, Raymond Lindeman, Trevor Clymens, Jonathan Hagio, Tommy Clymens, Dylan Connelly, Joseph Pato, Al Johnson.

IMCA Stock Cars

Heat Winner Round 1 (10 laps)-Troy Foulger. Heat Winner Round 2 (10 laps)-Troy Foulger. Main Event (25 laps)-Troy Foulger, Fred Ryland, Terry DeCarlo Jr, Mitch Machado, Dave Hill, Scott Foster.

Hobby Stocks

Heat Winner Round 1 (10 laps)-Grayson Baca. Heat Winner Round 2 (10 laps)-Grayson Baca. Main Event (25 laps)-Grayson Baca, Troy Foulger, Tommy Clymens, Kevin Brown, Jess Paladino, Trevor Clymens.

Fifth Annual West Coast Nationals Bill Bowers Memorial this weekend at Antioch Speedway

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Jeff Browne #2, reigning race champion Troy Foulger #49 and Justin Yeager #17 could all be part of the IMCA Modified show this weekend. Photo by Katrina Kniss

By Candice Martin, DCRR Racing Media

Antioch, CA…After a weekend off to allow the local racers who desired to take a trip down south to support the show in Bakersfield, racing returns in a big way this Friday and Saturday night at Antioch Speedway. It’s the fifth running of the West Coast Nationals Bill Bowers Memorial Race.

The event hearkens back to when Antioch Speedway first had a West Coast Nationals IMCA Modified race in 1993. Then champion Scott Busby of Martinez was looking to prove a point regarding the value of this growing class. He did the legwork, and the first show produced a track record 83 Modifieds.

To this day, it’s one of the biggest Modified turnouts in California history. There are two other interesting points regarding that race. It was won by Mark Welch of Orangevale. The car Mark drove to victory was purchased by current Promoter Chad Chadwick as he came out of retirement to go racing again.

After four more runnings of this race, it was retired when management changed hands to John Soares in 1998. Enter Chad Chadwick and PROmotions.

Chad had been in negotiations to take over the track and was given the opportunity to promote a big race in October of 2019. Thusly, he brought back the West Coast Nationals name. When longtime friend and employee Bill Bowers passed away, he decided to make it a memorial race in his honor.

IMCA Sport Modified front-runner Mark Garner #76, Dylan Connolly #6 and Matt Pitts #16a do battle in a race earlier this year. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Bowers and JD Willis are both Antioch Speedway Hall of Fame members, and they won many races and championships together. Willis, a 72-time feature winner and five-time champion at the track, will be saluted on the Friday night portion of the program.

The format is still being set as management encourages the racers to submit their ideas. The IMCA Modifieds, Sport Modifieds and Stock Cars are the featured divisions. When the purse was announced two weeks ago, the Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stocks were added to give them another big race.

The Modified drivers will be competing for one of the coveted feature starting births on Saturday night, which pays $300 minimum to take the green flag. The winner of the race takes home $2,000. The Sport Modified drivers get $200 minimum to start that race and $1,500 to win, while the Stock Cars get $150 to start and $1,000 to win.

More than that, the drivers want to win this race in honor of Bill, one of the most beloved figures among the local racing community. Bill’s motors were fast, and people are still competing with them to this day. Last year, his son Billy and driver Troy Foulger of Oakley teamed up to win both the Modified and Stock Car races, making it a special occasion for the family.

Jason Robles #78, Steve Stone #73, Fred Ryland #7J and reigning race champion Troy Foulger #49 are all anticipated for IMCA Stock Car action this weekend. Photo by Katrina Kniss

The Sport Modified win went to Kenny Shrader of Pacheco, who was notching his second West Coast Nationals victory. In fact, the winners of last year’s big event were a sign of what was to come this year. They won track championships in their respective divisions.

In Modified competition, there’s never been a repeat winner. The previous winners in order have been Kellen Chadwick of Oakley, Jacob Hobsheidt of Plattsmouth, Nebraska and Ryan McDaniel of Olivehurst. The first race paid an even bigger purse, and Bobby Hogge IV of Salinas had the win in hand until Chadwick used slower traffic to snatch the victory.

After Shrader got the first Sport Modified win in 2019, Guy Ahlwardt of Antioch and Fred Ryland of Brentwood won the next two. The IMCA Stock Cars got an audition in 2020 that yielded a good car count and led to the class being added for championship points a year later. Foulger won that weekend, while Nick Johnson of Bakersfield came to town and won in 2021.

Drivers come from everywhere in California to compete in this event. A few competitors will even show up from out of state. The addition of the Hobby Stock class to the program adds a new dimension of excitement. When last we had a race at the speedway two weeks ago, Buddy Kniss of Oakley was collecting a $3,000 Hobby Stock Nationals payday in the Dave Baca owned car.

Kevin Brown #17b and Trent Golden #7t are two Hobby Stock drivers to watch for this weekend. Photo by Katrina Kniss

The fans will get an opportunity to see some top talent that they don’t see at the speedway every week. The four division lineup should offer them plenty of excitement from start to finish on both nights. With the money and the glory on the line, who will be leaving with the victories this year?

It should also be pointed out that excitement is building in Antioch with the second running of the Open Wheel Showcase planned for November 11th. That night will see some of the top Winged 360 Sprint Car drivers from California in action. Fans have been asking for more Winged Sprint Car racing, and that night will fulfill their need for speed.

The gates will open on both nights at 4:00 with the first race starting at 6:00.

Adult tickets are $20, Senior/Military $15, Kids (5-12) $15 and kids four and under free.

For further information, go to www.raceantiochspeedway.com or check out the Antioch Speedway by PROmotions Facebook page.

Buddy Kniss wins Hobby Stock Nationals at Antioch Speedway

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Buddy Kniss piloted Dave Baca’s #33b car to the $3,000 Hobby Stock Nationals win. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Gallagher, Robbins, McLeister also win

By Candice Martin, DCRR Racing

Antioch, CA…October 6-7…Buddy Kniss of Oakley won the 50 lap Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stock Nationals Saturday night at Antioch Speedway. The 2019 IMCA Modified champion got the ride in the Dave Baca owned entry and made the most of it. The $3,000 victory was the biggest of his career.

Three-time Watsonville Hobby Stock champion Rob Gallaher of San Jose ended up with the win on Friday night, putting him in the Trophy Dash on Saturday, which he also won. Gallaher motored into the lead at the start, followed by 2020 champion James Thomson of Pittsburgh and Kenneth Robles of Rio Vista. Thomson made an inside pass on the back stretch on Lap 2 to grab the lead, but Gallaher came back strong on the outside in the fourth turn a lap later. A yellow flag waved for a flat tire on the Nick DeCarlo of Martinez car on Lap 4. Gallaher continued to lead the restart with Robles briefly moving into second. Thomson went low in Turn 4 a lap later to reclaim second and then made an inside pass on the back stretch on the eighth lap to take the lead from Gallaher once again. Kniss briefly took second from Gallaher, but Gallaher moved back around on Lap 9. Saturday night arrival Nick Johnson of Bakersfield made a high pass in Turn 4 on Lap 10 to grab third, and the battle intensified up front.

Gallaher made an inside pass in Turn 3 of the 12th lap to take the lead, and Johnson went low in Turn 2 a lap later to claim second. Johnson began smoking as he made an outside pass in Turn 4 on Lap 14 to take the lead from Gallaher. However, Gallaher came roaring back on the inside for the lead on Lap 15. A yellow flag flew for Robles, Aidan Ponciano of Oakley and Steven Johnson of Bakersfield in Turn 2 on Lap 16. Gallaher led the restart with Kniss motoring into second ahead of Nick Johnson. Another yellow flag waved on Lap 19. The restart saw Nick Johnson make a big move on the inside to take the lead from Gallaher. DeCarlo grabbed second. Johnson was still leading the way despite serious smoking issues. Following a Lap 27 yellow flag, Kniss made an inside pass to settle into second. Following a yellow flag on Lap 35, Kniss took the lead from Nick Johnson on the restart.

A yellow flag waved on Lap 39 for Robles. The restart lap saw contact between Nick Johnson and DeCarlo, and a yellow flag waved once again. Johnson retired, and Buddy Kniss now led Jared Baugh of Pittsburgh and Chester Kniss of Antioch. Chester Kniss pitted with a flat tire during a lap-48 yellow flag. Buddy Kniss led the restart and brought it home to victory ahead of Baugh, Lance Hurst of Madera, Jewell Crandall of Antioch and Charlie Bryant of Oakley.

Rob Gallaher X won the Friday night Hobby Stock Main Event. Photo by Katrina Kniss

On Friday night, they ran a twin heat race format that earned the driver’s points and 15 starting spots in the preliminary Main Event. Rob Gallaher of San Jose would end up with the win following the two post-race disqualifications of Chris Long of Antioch and Colten Haney of Brentwood.

The first round of 10-lap heat race wins went to Gallaher, Robles, Steven Johnson, Michaela Taylor of Oakley and Long. The next round of heats went to Buddy Kniss, Thomson, Haney, Bobby Motts, Jr. of San Pablo and Long, making Long the only driver to win two heat races.

Long started up front with Haney in the Friday preliminary Main Event, but Haney led the opening lap. Long went by on the inside a lap later to take the lead. Motts settled into an early third, but he brought out a Lap 11 yellow flag. Long continued to lead Haney and track champion Grayson Baca of Brentwood. A final yellow flag bunched the field on Lap 18. Haney surprised Long by taking the lead, but Long went low in Turn 1 on Lap 19 to reclaim first. Gallaher had settled into third, and they took the checkered flag with Long ahead of Haney, Gallaher, Baca and Robles. Following the tech disqualification of Haney and Long’s failure to go directly to tech after the race, Gallaher was elevated into first ahead of Baca, Robles, Thomson and Buddy Kniss.

Jimmy Robbins ended up getting the Figure 8 win aboard his X Super Stock. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Jimmy Robbins emerged with his first Figure 8 Main Event win of the season following multiple disqualifications. This was also the Mike Conley Salute, paying tribute to the recent Hall of Fame inductee.

DJ Keldsen of Newman had won the previous four races and took the early lead over Robbins, who was piloting his Super Stock on this occasion. Dakota Keldsen of Watsonville was an early third before being passed by his uncle, John Keldsen of Watsonville. John has won roughly 150 Figure 8 races throughout his illustrious career in California. A Turn 3 pass on the fourth lap gained John Keldsen the second position, and he set his sights on DJ.

Following a red flag on Lap 10 for a fire under the hood of the Dakota Keldsen car, John Keldsen surprised DJ by charging into the lead. The battle intensified between the two before DJ Keldsen made a pass as they exited Turn 2 on Lap 14. Undaunted, John Keldsen kept his foot in it and stayed on the inside as they went into Turn 3. Unfortunately, he hit an infield tire and rolled, bringing out a red flag. At that point, DJ Keldsen exited his car to check on his uncle and the race was stopped. Following some incidents after the races, all three Keldsen cars were disqualified, putting Robbins in the winner’s circle ahead of Michaela Taylor of Oakley and Mike Conley, Jr. of Antioch.

Devin McLeister #7b won the 600 Micro Sprint Main Event. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Devin McLeister of Stockton picked up the win in the 15 lap 600 Micro Sprint Main Event. He started on the pole and enjoyed a good battle with Fremont’s Ryan Dotson before the they scored the 1-2 finish. Bobby Caldeira of Salinas finished third.

Following a week off, racing returns in a big way with the Fifth Annual Bill Bowers Memorial West Coast Nationals. The big money affair will include the IMCA Modifieds, Sport Modifieds and Stock Cars along with the recently added Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stocks. The Friday night portion will pay tribute to Hall of Famer JD Willis as well. For further information, go to www.raceantiochspeedway.com or check out the Antioch Speedway by PROmotions Facebook page.

Friday, Oct. 6, 2023 Race Results 

Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stocks 

Heat Winners Round 1 (10 laps)-Buddy Kniss James Thomson, Colten Haney, Bobby Motts Jr, Chris Long. Heat Winners Round 2 (10 laps)-Rob Gallaher, Kenneth Robles, Steven Johnson, Michaela Taylor, Chris Long. Main Event (25 laps)-Rob Gallaher, Grayson Baca, Kenneth Robles, James Thomson, Buddy Kniss, Chester Kniss, Steven Johnson, Kevin Brown, Michaela Taylor, Breanna Troen.

Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023 Race Results

Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stocks

Heat Winners (10 lap)-Buddy Kniss, Charlie Bryant, Chester Kniss, Jared Baugh. Trophy Dash (4 laps)-Rob Gallaher. B Main 1 (15 laps)-Nick DeCarlo, Steven Johnson, Tyler Irwin. B Main 2 (15 laps)-Nick Johnson, Brad Coelho, Aidan Ponciano. Main Event (50 laps)-Buddy Kniss, Jared Baugh, Lance Hurst, Jewell Crandall, Charlie Bryant, Chester Kniss, Anthony Vigna, Rob Gallaher, Brad Coelho, James Thomson.

Figure 8

Main Event (15 laps)-Jimmy Robbins, Michaela Taylor, Mike Conley Jr, John Keldsen DQ, DJ Keldsen DQ, Dakota Keldsen DQ.

600 Micro Sprints

Heat Winner (8 laps)-Devin McCleister. Main Event (15 laps)-Devin McCleister, Ryan Dotson, Bobby Caldeira, Charlie Kight, Austin Cobb DNS, Don McCleister DNS.

Take BART to Fleet Week Air Show, Cal vs. Oregon State game this weekend

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Source: BART

By BART

Friday, Oct. 6 – This promises to be a busy weekend in the skies over the Bay Area as Fleet Week is back in San Francisco. BART is ready to help you get to the prime viewing locations for the air show.

BART is welcoming Fleet Week by offering longer and more frequent trains at night and on weekends throughout the festivities. This is the first Fleet Week that will benefit from BART’s reimagined schedule that was launched last month. Now riders will wait no more than 20 minutes on a station platform for a scheduled train. We are using only Fleet of the Future trains to fulfill our basic service plan so riders will enjoy a cleaner and safer BART experience. Many lines that have been served by 6-car trains will instead feature 8-car trains as we expand our capacity for riders going to Fleet Week.   

Saturday, Oct. 7: California Golden Bears vs Oregon State University Beavers at Memorial Stadium

There’s a great matchup at Memorial Stadium Saturday as Cal hosts the 15th ranked Oregon State University Beavers. It’s the Bears’ Homecoming game so a big crowd is expected. Kickoff is at 7pm. The Bears need only three more wins to become bowl eligible. BART is the best way to get to the game. In addition to our increased weekend service and the longer trains we’re running for Fleet Week, we’ll stage an event train to expand our capacity for fans.

See the U.S. Navy Blue Angels perform during Fleet Week. Source: BART

Happy Riding this Weekend!     

We hope you enjoy your weekend adventures aboard our trains. For an in-depth listing of local events, visit the BARTable website. You can also keep up with BARTable on Facebook and Instagram.

Los Medanos College hires new athletic director

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Marty Storti joins LMC from Saint Mary’s College

Marty Storti is the new Los Medanos College Athletics Director. Source: LMC

Los Medanos College (LMC) is pleased to announce Marty Storti as Athletics Director, effective Oct. 2, 2023.

“Mr. Storti comes to us with a wealth of experience in intercollegiate athletics administration” Vice President of Student Services Tanisha Maxwell said. “We are confident he will help elevate our sports and help our student athletes achieve their highest potential.”

Storti, who joins LMC after a career of more than 20 years as a coach and athletic administrator at Saint Mary’s College in Moraga, said he is eager to work with student athletes at the community college level.

“At Saint Mary’s, I designed the recruiting protocols for Club Athletics that included transfer students. We engaged and helped many community college athletes navigate the admissions and financial aid processes,” he said. “LMC, as a feeder school to UC Davis and Berkeley and other great universities, gives student athletes a unique opportunity with a unique set of support systems to help them win and graduate.”

Over the course of his tenure at Saint Mary’s College, Storti managed numerous areas within the athletic department, including human resources, strategic planning, and program assessment. In his role, Storti oversaw athletic camps, campus recreation, event management, facilities, sports medicine, and strength and conditioning. He also served as the sports supervisor for several teams, which included baseball, cross country, track, men’s golf, women’s rowing, men’s soccer, and softball.

“LMC is an attractive opportunity, given its potential for growth in the athletics, from increasing the number of sponsored sports to increasing the number of student athletes. We will demonstrate how important student-athletes can be to the institution and the broader community,” he said. “Sports at LMC can be that light that guides more students toward higher education and long-term success.”

As assistant vice president for Club Athletics, Storti spearheaded a departmental rebranding initiative for recruiting and revenue generation. Under his leadership, Storti introduced a student-athlete council and devised a comprehensive student leadership development program. His oversight resulted in a notable rise in student-athlete applications and enrollments. He led successful revenue-generating initiatives, which led to increases in facility rentals, camp revenue, ticket sales, and annual fundraising.

Under his administrative leadership, several of Saint Mary’s teams achieved national success. Storti was the men’s soccer sport administrator when they participated in the 2011 NCAA tournament, where they reached the elite eight. He served as the lead administrator for men’s rugby, contributing to their historic achievements by securing USA Rugby D1A (highest level) National Championships in 2014, 2015, 2016 (7s), and 2017.

Storti earned his master’s degree and bachelor’s degree in business administration from Saint Mary’s College.

About Los Medanos College (LMC): LMC is one of three colleges in the Contra Costa Community College District, serving the East Contra Costa County community. Established in 1974, LMC has earned federal designations as a Minority-Serving and Hispanic-Serving institution. It offers award-winning transfer and career-technical programs, support services, and diverse academic opportunities in an inclusive learning environment. With exceptional educators, innovative curriculum, growing degree and certificate offerings, and state-of-the-art facilities, the college prepares students to succeed in their educational pursuits, in the workforce, and beyond. LMC’s Pittsburg Campus is located on 120 acres bordering Antioch, with an additional education center in Brentwood.

 

Hannagan wins thrilling Chet Thomson Memorial Race at Antioch Speedway

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Joel Hannagan #16 won his fourth-straight Chet Thomson Memorial Hardtop race as he gets closer to the championship. Photo by Candice Martin

Fuson, Learn, Rosa, Richardson also win

By Candice Martin, DCRR Racing Media

Antioch, CA…September 30…Making a late move around Mike Gillard of Atwater, San Jose’s Joel Hannagan won the 20 lap Hardtop Main Event Saturday night at Antioch Speedway. This was the 21st running of the Chet Thomson Memorial Hardtop race and the fourth-straight win for Hannagan in that event aboard the Doug Braudrick owned Junkyard Dog. This was also his sixth win of the season as he maintains the point lead.

Three-time Sportsman champion Rick Elliott of Merced started on the second row and bolted into the early lead ahead of Brad Coelho of Oakley and Gillard. Gillard made an inside pass on Coelho with Hannagan also getting by on the inside in Turn 4. A yellow flag waved on Lap 4. On the restart, Gillard charged past Elliott for the lead. Elliott took an infield excursion on Lap 5 with Hannagan now second ahead of Mike Friesen of Atwater. The battle soon found the leaders working through slower traffic, and those drivers were having side by side races of their own.

Gillard managed to thread the needle between slower cars a couple of times before a yellow flag waved for a Les Warkentin of Atwater spin in Turn 4 on the 10th lap. Gillard continued to lead Hannagan and Friesen on the restart. The pressure was on Gillard as they were soon in slower traffic once again. Hannagan made an inside pass in Turn 4 of the 15th lap to grab the lead from Gillard. Gillard kept it close, but Hannagan prevailed at the checkered flag. Friesen ended up third, followed by two-time Chet Thomson Memorial winner Jason Armstrong of El Dorado and Don Slaney of Martinez.

Mike Gillard #17 picked up a win in a rare Trophy Dash for the Hardtop division. Photo by Candice Martin

Brody Fuson of Bakersfield won the 30 lap USAC Western States Midgets Main Event. This was the fifth win of the season for Fuson as he nudges closer to the series championship with one more point event remaining.

Fuson started on the second row outside, but he managed to grab the lead at the start ahead of Michael Faccinto of Hanford and championship contender Cade Lewis of Bakersfield. They maintained that order throughout the first half of the race before Faccinto stalled on the back straightaway for a Lap 17 yellow flag. Fuson led Lewis and Caden Sarale of Stockton on the restart. Fuson maintained a good pace down the stretch and prevailed at the checkered flag ahead of Lewis, Sarale, previous Antioch winner TJ Smith of Fresno and Brandon Wiley of Santa Maria.

Point leader Mike Learn #11 won his fourth-straight Super Stock Main Event. Photo by Candice Martin

Point leader Mike Learn a Petaluma collected his fourth-straight Super Stock Main Event win as he closes in on the championship. Learn has already won the championship at Petaluma Speedway this season and was the inaugural Tri State Pro Stock title winner as well. A spin in the Trophy Dash saw Learn hand the victory in that race to Donnie Richardson of Antioch.

Donnie Richardson #2a scored a surprise win in the Super Stock Trophy Dash. Photo by Candice Martin

Learn bolted into the lead at the start ahead of Richardson and Steve Studebaker of Santa Rosa. Richardson slowed and headed for the pits on Lap 3 as multi time Petaluma champion Mitch Machado of Rohnert Park got around Studebaker for second. As Learn pulled away from the pack, Machado and Studebaker engaged in an intense, side by side battle for second.

Machado pushed in Turn 4 with Studebaker going by on the inside to grab second on Lap 14. The two continued a close battle with contact sending them both spinning in Turn 4 for a Lap 15 yellow flag. Learn led Machado and Studebaker on the restart. Studebaker went low in Turn 2 on Lap 17 to grab second as Machado pushed. Knightson’s Ryan Cherezian also got past Machado for third on Lap 19. Learn went on to win ahead of Studebaker, Cherezian, Machado and Richardson.

David Michael Rosa #7 won his second-straight Delta Dwarf Car Main Event in the Roberto Monroy owned #7 car. Photo by Candice Martin

David Michael Rosa picked up his third win of the season in Delta Dwarf Car 20 lap Main Event action. This was also the second-straight win for Rosa aboard the Roberto Monroy owned entry.

2020 champion Travis Day of Concord set the early pace ahead of Rosa, and a yellow flag waved as Rosa got around Day for the lead on Lap 3. David Michael Rosa led Day and David Rosa of Antioch on the restart. Day did his best, but Rosa seemed to have it hooked up well once he got the lead. There were a few spins for yellow flags, but David Michael Rosa would lead Day on each ensuing restart as they scored the 1-2 finish. David Rosa ended up third ahead of Joe LeDuc of Tracy.

Up next will be the Third Annual Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stock Nationals this Friday and Saturday night. The Saturday program sees the Hobby Stocks racing for a $3,000 first prize. Joining them that night will be a Figure 8 and 600 Micro Sprints. For further information, go to www.raceantiochspeedway.com.

Antioch Speedway Race Results

Hardtops
Heat Winners (8 laps)-Jason Armstrong, Joel Hannagan, Mike Gillard. Trophy Dash (4 laps)-Mike Gillard. Main Event (20 laps)-Joel Hannagan, Mike Gillard, Mike Friesen, Jason Armstrong, Don Slaney, Rick Elliott, Gary Hildebrand, Joe Shenefield, Mario Romano, Les Warkentin.

USAC Western States Midgets

FT Brandon Wiley 13.963. Heat Winners (10 laps)-Cade Lewis, Ben Worth. Main Event (20 laps)-Brody Fuson, Cade Lewis, Caden Sarale, TJ Smith, Brandon Wiley, CJ Sarna, Nikko Panella, Samuel May, Ben Covich, Ron Hazleton.

Super Stocks
Heat Winners (8 laps)-Mike Learn, Steve Studebaker. Trophy Dash (4 laps)-Donnie Richardson. Main Event (20 laps)-Mike Learn, Steve Studebaker, Ryan Cherezian, Mitch Machado, Donnie Richardson, Richard Vander Ploeg, Joey Ridgeway DNS, John Evans DNS.

Delta Dwarf Cars

Heat Winner (8 laps)-David Michael Rosa. Main Event (20 laps)-David Michael Rosa, Travis Day, David Rosa, Joe LeDuc.

 

As Pittsburg faces Target store closure, new sports complex breaks ground

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Rendering of Discovery Homes Dream Courts.

Discovery Homes, City celebrate “Discovery Homes Dream Courts”

By Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce

As Pittsburg reacts to the news of Target’s closing, there’s another story unfolding: Discovery Homes’ groundbreaking of the “Dream Courts” sports complex. In times when one major entity is stepping back, another is significantly investing in our community’s future.

This juxtaposition — a company departing versus another doubling down on Pittsburg — offers a balanced narrative.

Discovery Homes, in partnership with the city of Pittsburg, is thrilled to announce the groundbreaking of the much-anticipated “Dream Courts” – a state-of- the-art, 41,000 square foot multi-court sports complex in Pittsburg. This landmark initiative embodies the spirit of collaboration and community commitment toward fostering sports, wellness, and communal activities.

The groundbreaking ceremony was held Tuesday morning, September 26, 2023, at John Henry Johnson Park on W. Leland Road, with a host of city dignitaries, and community leaders in attendance.

Albert Seeno, III, city officials and Discovery Homes staff participate in the ceremonial groundbreaking for the new Dream Courts in Pittsburg, Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. Source: Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce

Situated at the park, the Discovery Homes Dream Courts are set to redefine the city’s sports infrastructure, providing residents and sports enthusiasts alike with world-class facilities and amenities. Designed meticulously with the latest in sports technology, the courts promise to offer a premier sporting experience.

“I am thrilled to see the construction of the Dream Courts begin,” said Mayor Shanelle Scales-Preston. “This project headlines the immense efforts of my colleagues on the City Council and I to bring new opportunities to the youth and young adults in our Pittsburg community. We are also greatly appreciative to Discovery Homes for their efforts and contributions to see this project come to life.”

“Building homes has always been about creating spaces where memories are made and communities flourish. With the Dream Courts, we’re extending our philosophy to public spaces. It’s more than just courts—it’s a vision for an energetic, communal, and vibrant Pittsburg,” Albert Seeno III of Discovery Homes stated. “Our commitment at Discovery Homes has always been to enhance the lives of the residents in the communities we serve, and the Dream Courts are a testament to that pledge.”

Discovery Homes Dream Courts Site Plan.

“We are excited about the potential that the Discovery Homes Dream Courts bring to Pittsburg,” said Wolfgang Croskey, CEO of the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce. “Not only will this complex boost our city’s sports infrastructure, but it will also create jobs, promote wellness, and be a hub of community events and gatherings.”

“This is an exciting day for our youth and community as we break ground on this state-of-the-art facility,” said Jelani Killings, Pittsburg City Council member, “Dream Courts represents our commitment to providing safe and inspiring spaces where our youth can develop their talents, build character, and pursue their dreams. Let this groundbreaking be the start of a new era of opportunity and excellence for our youth.”

Discovery Homes, known for their track record of excellence and innovation in development, are the visionaries behind the construction. “We’re honored to be part of this monumental project with the City of Pittsburg. We have been and continue to be a close partner with the City of Pittsburg on many exciting development projects now and for years to come. Discovery Homes Dream Courts exemplifies the City’s commitment to providing recreational opportunities for Pittsburg residents and is rooted in the belief of creating spaces that bind communities together. We are proud to participate in bringing this exciting recreational amenity to the City of Pittsburg,” comments Louis Parsons, President of Discovery Homes.

Highlights of the Discovery Homes Dream Courts:

  1. Multiple courts catering to various sports, including basketball, volleyball, and more.
  2. Environmentally friendly construction materials promoting sustainability.
  3. Spaces designated for community events, workshops, and training sessions.

To learn more about the Discovery Homes Dream Courts project please contact Jordan Davis at the City of Pittsburg at jdavis@pittsburgca.gov.

About Discovery Homes

With a legacy spanning over decades, Discovery Homes has been creating exceptional residential communities that are thoughtfully designed and built with a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Rooted in values of integrity, craftsmanship, and innovation, Discovery Homes continues to set benchmarks in the homebuilding industry.

About the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce

The Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization committed to fostering business growth, community development, and networking opportunities in Pittsburg. Our mission is to empower businesses and communities to thrive by offering resources, advocacy, and collaborative initiatives.

 

Sarale wins Bock Memorial at Antioch Speedway 

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Caden Sarale #14 won the Doug Bock Memorial race for the BCRA Midgets. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Johns, Wagner, Davis, Land, Hannagan also winners

By Candice Martin, DCRR Racing Media

Antioch, CA…August 26…Caden Sarale of Stockton won the 30 lap BCRA Midgets Main Event Saturday night at Antioch Speedway. When long time car owner Doug Bock recently passed away, it was decided to make this a memorial race in his honor, and it was also the second leg of the Triple Crown Series for the group.

Sarale jumped into the lead at the start ahead of Danika Jo Parker of Oakdale and Ben Worth of Coalinga. On the fourth lap, the race came to a grinding halt when David Gasper of Santa Barbara flipped in Turn 4. Before the race even restarted, the USAC Midgets regular was able to rejoin the field at the back of the pack after quick repairs. Sarale continued to lead Parker on the restart, but Worth moved into second on Lap 6.

The leaders caught heavy traffic by the 10th circuit, but the smooth driving Sarale held a straightaway advantage ahead of Worth at that point. Nikko Panella of Stockton slipped past Parker for second on Lap 17, but a yellow flag negated the pass. Sarale continued to lead Worth and Parker on the restart, but Panella moved into third by Lap 19. Moments later, Worth stalled in Turn 2 for a yellow flag as his race came to an end.

Blaine Craft #35 came to rest next to the fence after his wild ride out the Turn 1 exit gate saw him flip over the K rail. He was not injured. Photo by Candice Martin

Sarale led Panella and the resurgent Gasper on the restart. However, a red flag waved on Lap 21 after a scary incident with another car sent Blaine Craft of Elk Grove out the Turn 1 exit gate, over the K rail and into the fence. Fortunately, he was not injured. Sarale continued to lead Panella and Gasper on the restart. Gasper was pressuring Panella for second before making the move on Lap 27. However, nobody was stopping Sarale as he sped home to victory ahead of Gasper, Panella, Blake Bower of Brentwood and Bryant Bell of Oakley.

Ken Johns #32 maintained his hold on second in points with his second Hobby Stock feature triumph. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Ken Johns won the 20 lap Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stock Main Event. This was his second win of the season as he maintains second in the championship standings.

Colten Haney of Brentwood set the early pace ahead of Kevin Brown of Oakley and Johns. Aidan Ponciano of Oakley briefly got by Johns for third, but Johns reclaimed the spot on Lap 3. Johns slipped past Brown for second on the sixth lap and made a Turn 4 pass on Lap 8 to take the lead from Haney. Hard charging Danny Wagner of Bay Point moved into fourth on Lap 6 after an opening lap spin and settled into third two laps later.

Wagner overtook Haney for second in Turn 2 on Lap 9. Chris Long of Antioch moved into third on Lap 12 as Wagner was pressuring Johns for the lead. Wagner made a Turn 4 pass on Lap 17 to take over, only to see his pass negated by a yellow flag involving point leader Grayson Baca of Brentwood.

Johns led the restart, but Wagner went low in Turn 1 on Lap 18 to again claim the lead. Wagner spun in Turn 1 with mechanical issues. Johns led the final restart and won ahead of Long, Ponciano, the resurgent Baca and Brown.

Danny Wagner #11 picked up his third Delta Dwarf Car Main Event victory. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Reigning Delta Dwarf Car champion Danny Wagner of Bay Point won his third 20 lap Main Event of the season in thrilling fashion. The recently crowned South Bay Dwarf Car champion made a last lap pass on point leader Chance Russell of Antioch to steal the victory.

The Dwarf Cars had a non-stop affair with Russell charging out to the early lead ahead of Wagner. Russell and Wagner began to pull ahead as Sean Catucci of Brentwood settled into third. Antioch’s David Michael Rosa moved into fourth and enjoyed a good battle with Catucci before getting by. As the race hit the stretch run, Wagner began to put serious pressure on Russell.

The leaders caught slower traffic on Lap 18 with Wagner making an outside pass in Turn 2 to briefly grab second. However, Russell went motoring ahead down the back straightaway. As the leaders hit the final turn, Wagner made his move on the inside and beat Russell back to line in a drag race for the thrilling victory. Rosa ended up third ahead of Catucci and Eric Weisler of Campbell.

Tom Davis #75 scored his eighth win of the season in the West Coast Sport Compact race. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Tom Davis of Los Molinos won the 20 Lap House of Juju West Coast Sport Compact Main Event. This was his eighth win of the season at the track and first on the tour.

Austin Sprague of Merced took the early lead ahead of Chris Corder of Modesto and Tony Quinonez of Corning. Davis got past Quinonez for third on the second lap and slipped past Corder for second on Lap 3. Davis put the moves on Sprague in Turn 2 on Lap 6 to grab the lead. Reigning champion Tom Brown of Santa Rosa gained third on Lap 8 and set his sights on Sprague. Brown finally got by on Lap 16 with a Turn 4 pass. However, Davis had a comfortable advantage by then as he went on to victory. Sprague settled for third ahead of Dan Myrick of Coalinga and Corder.

Matt Land #91 made a late move to win the BCRA Lightning Sprint Main Event. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Matt Land of Elk Grove won the BCRA Lightning Sprint 20 lap Main Event with a late move around Series point leader Dakota Albright of Waterford. Albright broke the point lead wide open when rival Greg Dennett of Livermore scratched prior to the Main Event.

Albright took the early lead ahead of Land rookie Jason Schostag of Diamond Springs. On the 12th lap, Land spun in Turn 4 to fall back the third, but Schostag stalled at the Turn 1 exit gate for a yellow flag. On the restart, Land began to pressure Albright before making an inside pass on the front stretch on Lap 19 to take the lead. Land scored the thrilling victory ahead of Albright and Schostag.

Joel Hannagan drove the Junkyard Dog #16 Hardtop to his fifth win of the season. Photo by Katrina Kniss

Joel Hannagan of San Jose won the 15 lap Hardtop Main Event. This was the fifth win of the season for the point leader aboard the Doug Braudrick owned Junkyard Dog.

Brad Coello of Oakley took the early lead in the Tommy Thomson owned car, but Hannagan raced by on the inside down the front stretch a lap later to take over. Hannagan set a rapid pace and stretched his advantage to half a lap over Coelho by the time the race was over. Joe Shenefield of Modesto ended up third ahead of Ken Clifford of Antioch.

David Amsted and Jim DeJong brought their Vintage Midgets for some exhibition laps. The cars are a throwback to what represented the BCRA Midget class in the 1940s and 1950s.

The track takes a break for Labor Day weekend and returns on September 8th and 9th with the Malicious Monster Truck Insanity Tour. On September 15th and 16th, it will be Hall of Fame weekend with two nights of racing. For further information, go to http://www.antiochspeedway.com.

Antioch Speedway Race Results – August 26, 2023

BCRA Midgets

FT-Ben Worth 14.298. Heat Winners (8 laps)-Ben Worth, Caden Sarale, Blake Bower. Main Event (30 laps)-Caden Sarale, David Gasper, Nikko Panella, Blake Bower, Bryant Bell, Danika Jo Parker, Michael Snider, Anthony Bruno, Marvin Mitchell, Floyd Alvis.

Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stocks

Heat Winners (8 laps)-Aidan Ponciano, Chris Long. Main Event (20 laps)-Ken Johns, Chris Long, Aidan Ponciano, Grayson Baca, Kevin Brown, Breanna Troen, Charlie Bryant, Jess Paladino, Maddie Motts, John Keith.

Hardtops

Heat Winner (6 laps)-Joel Hannagan. Main Event (15 laps)-Joel Hannagan, Brad Coello, Joe Shenefield, Ken Clifford, Bob Slaney DNS.

Delta Dwarf Cars

Heat Winners (8 laps)-Danny Wagner, David Michael Rosa. Main Event (20 laps)-Danny Wagner, Chance Russell, David Michael Rosa, Sean Catucci, Eric Weisler, Travis Day, Devan Kammermann, Mark Biscardi, David Rosa, Elie Russo.

BCRA Lightning Sprints

Heat Winner (8 laps)-Greg Dennett. Main Event (20 laps)-Matt Land, Dakota Albright, Jason Schostag, Greg Dennett DNS, Chris Crowder DNS.

House of Juju West Coast Sport Compacts

Heat Winners (8 laps)-Tom Brown, Tom Davis. Main Event (20 laps)-Tom Davis, Tom Brown, Austin Sprague, Dan Myrick, Chris Corder, Tony Quinonez, Gene Glover, Kevin Thompson, Josh Applebaum, Rick Berry.