May 18th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday May 18th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. The race program will include Crate Late Model ($1,000 To Win), Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Renegade, Stock 4, Young Guns, Extreme 4, and Open Wheel Modified. The Crate Late Model division will have a bonus being $300 with 12 or more cars or $500 with 15 or more cars. The Renegade and Stock 4 divisions will have a $100 new winner bonus. Any division having 15 or more cars will have a $200 bonus. Gates open at 5 PM with drivers meeting at 7 PM.

Carolina Clash Plus Regular Divisions May 11th

Cherokee Speedway will host the Carolina Clash Super Late Model Series on Saturday May 11th along with racing in Limited Sportsman, Crate Sportsman, Renegade, Young Guns, Stock 4, and Extreme 4. Gates open at 5 PM with drivers meeting at 7 PM

May 4th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday May 4th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. The race program will include Crate Late Model, Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Renegade, Stock 4, Young Guns, Extreme 4, and Vintage. Gates open at 5 PM with drivers meeting at 7 PM.

April 27th Schedule & Line Up

The Southern Open Wheel Modified Series will be at Cherokee Speedway on Saturday April 27th. April 27th racing program will include Southern Open Wheel Modified Series, Crate Late Model, Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Renegade, Stock 4, Young Guns, Extreme 4, and Vintage. Gates open at 5 PM with drivers meeting at 7 PM.

April 20th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday April 20th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. The race program will include Crate Late Model, Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Renegade, Stock 4, Young Guns, Extreme 4, Open Wheel Modified, and Vintage. Gates open at 5 PM with drivers meeting at 7 PM.

April 13th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday April 13th racing program will be a regular show. Limited Late Models return to Cherokee Speedway Saturday April 13th. The race program will include Crate Late Model, Limited Late Model, Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Young Guns, and Extreme 4. The Limited Late Model division will be racing for $1,500 to win and the Crate Late Model division will be racing for $1,500 to win also. Both Limited Late Model and Crate Late Model divisions will have two laps of qualifying with the top four drawing for starting position in Main Event. Gates open at 5 PM with drivers meeting at 7 PM.

April 6th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday April 6th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. Points will start this weekend. The race program will include Crate Late Model, Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Renegade, Stock 4, Young Guns, Extreme 4, Open Wheel Modified, and Vintage. If the Crate Late Model division has 12 or more cars there will be a $300 bonus added. Any other divisions having 15 or more cars will have a $200 bonus added. Gates open at 5 PM with drivers meeting at 7 PM.

March 30th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday March 30th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. The race program will include Crate Late Model, Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Renegade, Stock 4, Young Guns, and Extreme 4. The Crate Sportsman division will be racing for $700 to win and any class with 15 or more cars will have a bonus.

Jared Landers Wins March Madness XI At Cherokee

Jared Landers of Batesville, Ark. took the win at March Madness XI Sunday March 3rd at Cherokee Speedway. Landers led ever lap around the 4/10 mile oval to earn the $10,000 victory.

SAS / Clash Feature Results: 1) Jared Landers #5, 2) Steve Francis #15, 3) Randy Weaver #116, 4) Jonathan Davenport #49, 5) Dennis Franklin #37, 6) Johnny Pursley #09, 7) John Pursley #9, 8 ) Zack Mitchell #57, 9) Riley Hickman #R1, 10) Ross Bailes #B4, 11) Mark Rosner #17, 12) Jason Hiett #1J, 13) Brett Holmes #H2, 14) Roger Hammond #9H, 15) John Garvin #4, 16) Mike Gault #448, 17) Casey Roberts #101, 18 ) Doug Sanders #42, 19) Mike Weeks #22, 20) Dustin Mitchell #D8, 21) Wayne Hughes #1H, 22) Kevin Wilson #618, 23) Mike Marler #08, 24) Chris Madden #44, 25) Ricky Weeks #1

March Madness March 2nd And 3rd

Cherokee Speedway will host March Madness Saturday March 2nd and Sunday March 3rd. Saturdays race program will include qualifying and heat racing in Crate Sportsman, Stock 4, and Renegade. Also on Saturdays race program includes heats and mains for Young Guns and Extreme 4. Sundays race program will include Super Late Model qualifying, heats, and $10,000 to win main along with mains for Crate Sportsman, Stock 4, and Renegade. Admission for stands on Saturday will be $10 and $25 on Sunday. Admission for pits on Saturday will be $25 and $35 on Sunday. Two day pass for stands will be $30. Two day pass for pits will be $45.

February 23rd Schedule & Line Up

Saturday February 23rd racing program will be a regular show for all divisions.

Why Cherokee Speedway Chose SECA For Crate Program

Why Cherokee Speedway chose SECA for our crate program for 2013. As we was neared the end of the 2012 race season lots of uncertainties was in question for the 2013 crate programs. It looked as if no one knew 100% what was going to happen or the direction they were headed. This is when Marion,Scott and Timmy came to me about SECA about the potential for our racers to run for a solid points fund and not have to leave their home track I saw where the racers would benefit from this. Marion and Timmy both have "SERIES" backgrounds, that along with Scott and Marions success at weekly promotions last season at Harris. This deal was a no brainer for me, I feel these guys care about the racers first. That is important to my crate racers here at the speedway.

As things progressed and SECA partnered with two of the most valuable company's in crate racing (City Chevrolet and Hoosier Racing Tire) it became a bigger deal.  Not only a good idea but a solid and stable program for the racers $17,000 points fund ( that will continue to grow ) and all that my racers have to do is race and take their best 15 races. (finishes at any SECA member track)

Having worked with Hoosier and City Chevrolet for many years I know how much passion and dedication those guys have for dirt racing and not to mention the support they have gave Cherokee Speedway over the years. They have both been involved with my crate program from the beginning when we was the only track in the Carolina's to even think of running a crate late models. It was definitely was a good idea, that year we started with only two crate cars but quickly grew by the end of the season we had right at 20 cars..

Crate late models got everyone's attention and most tracks in our area started running them the following season and we know at Cherokee this could have not have transpired with out the support we had from City Chevrolet and Hoosier.

Why is this a great deal for the track because it will help keep the racer at their home track plus there is no mandatory membership so the guys that can't run all the races or may just not have the extra cash at the time can still race at Cherokee without buying a membership  or paying every week to enter.

For the racer in today's economy it's so hard for racers to travel up the road 2 or 3 hours and in most cases if you don't win you can't break even. With SECA you stay at your home track and run for points without the worries of being in a points chase or knowing you have to travel a few hours to race.

This is some of the reasons Cherokee speedway is a SECA sanctioned track
And 100% ready for a great 2013 racing season.

Thanks Lennie Buff

Open Practice Is Set For February 17th

Open practice for the 2013 racing season at Cherokee Speedway has been set for Sunday February 17th. Practice is scheduled from 1 PM to 5 PM. The first race for the 2013 racing season is set for Saturday February 23rd.

Cherokee Speedway Signs On With SECA For 2013

The newly formed South Eastern Crate Association is pleased to announce that in 2013 the drivers from Cherokee Speedway will be eligible for the City Chevrolet Weekly Championship . Cherokee Speedway in Gaffney S.C is dubbed as "The place your momma warned you about". The action is always fast and exciting in the crate late model division. In 2012 Cherokee averaged between 15-18 crate late models per week. "We see no reason for this to change in 2013, I feel that SECA will provide our drivers with another shot at some extra money. Drivers are familiar with the rules, and the layout of what SECA is offering, and from a promoters standpoint, I feel like we need to try and keep our weekly drivers at home, give them a chance to win more than just track points" stated Cherokee Promoter Lennie Buff.

"There are a bunch of cars at Cherokee on a weekly basis, and the location is really perfect, right off the interstate which makes it easy for drivers passing through to drop in and race. This is just one of the many reasons we put Cherokee Speedway on our radar. We at SECA want all drivers at our sanctioned tracks to have a chance to race for something extra. I have always had a great relatioship with the owners and the entire staff at Cherokee, I see this being a great fit for SECA and the weekly program at Cherokee" said Timmy Mcabee. Drivers choosing to sign up with SECA will collect City Cherolet Weekly Championship points each week at Cherokee Speedway. The top 15 races will be counted toward the final standings, and the leader at the end of the season will grab a cool $6,000. The total purse will consist of $17,000 paying back the top 20 positions. SECA sanctioned tracks will run under SECA rules for weekly crate late model programs, this will include a tire rule of: HOOSIER HTS spec 1350 and HTS spec 1600.

"City Chevrolet ,Hoosier and myself have had a great relationship ever since our first days of crate racing, when I seen those guys were supporting SECA, we decided to join up. I really think SECA will benefit the drivers and Cherokee Speedway. Everything I have heard has been positive from the drivers that have heard about it or been inquiring about SECA" Buff added.

The Cherokee season is slated to get started as always with a bang with a fan favorite March Madness weekend scheduled for the first weekend of March.

Information about Cherokee Speedway can be found at http://www.cherokeespeedwaysc.com

SECA contacts:
Timmy Mcabee (864)761-6039
Scott Childress (864)346-3588
Marion Limbaugh (864)238-2254

www.secaracing.com
http://www.cherokeespeedwaysc.com

Partners of SECA include: City Chevrolet, Hoosier Racing Tires, Collins Signs, Ivey Construction, Heintz Performance, Ellison Racing Engines, Kenny Lamb Racing Engines, Hendren Racing Engines, Big A's Custom Graphics, & Thomas Clarke Performance.

Cherokee Speedway 2012 Points Banquet Set For January 11th

The 2012 Points Banquet will be held on January 11th at 7 PM. at Our Place (OP'S) in Blacksburg, SC. Our Place is located off I-85 exit 100. Turn North after exiting and Our Place is 1/8 mile on right. Advance tickets are $15 and tickets will be $25 at the door. We will have a dinner, the points award ceremony, and then some socializing time with music and dancing. Contact Lennie or Chan for advance ticket arrangements.

Cherokee Speedway Winter Nationals Racing Series For Karts

Cherokee Speedway Winter Nationals Racing Series for karts includes the following dates December 2nd (Points and Money Race), December 16th (Points and Money Race), January 6th (Points and Money Race), January 13th (Points and Money Race), and January 27th (Double Points and Money Race). Gates are scheduled to open on these dates at 11:00 AM. with drivers meeting at 12:45 PM. and practice at 1:00 PM.

2012 World Crown 4 Cylinder Nationals November 23rd, 24th, And 25th At Cherokee Speedway

Cherokee Speedway located in Gaffney, South Carolina will be hosting the 2012 World Crown 4 Cylinder Nationals on November 23rd, 24th, and 25th. The divisions competing include Stock 4, Extreme 4, and Young Guns. Open practice will be held Friday Nov. 23rd with gates opening at 1 PM. Practice will be held on Nov. 23rd from 3 PM. till 7 PM. Teams will have the option of having cars teched during this time.

On Saturday Nov. 24th gates will open at 9:00 AM. Drivers meeting will be held at 1 PM. SHARP! All cars must be registered, entry fees paid, and signed in before drivers meeting Saturday. Transponder fee will be $10. The tech inspection line will open at 9:30 AM. Tech line will close at 12:30 PM. If a race car is not in tech line by 12:30 PM. you will not be allowed to qualify and will start in the rear of a heat race. All 4 Cylinder cars will be group qualified (2 laps) and all cars must be ready when group is called to staging. If any car fails to show for assigned group, that car will forfeit qualifying and will start in the rear of a heat.

On Sunday Nov. 25th gates will open at 11:00 AM. with drivers meeting at 1 PM. SHARP!

The line up for mains will be determined through qualifying, heats, and consi's as follows:

Stock 4 will have a $100 entry fee with $5,000 to win. $2,500 winner bonus if 80 or more cars are registered. All cars will qualify to set heats (4 heats). All cars will run a heat race with top 4 cars inverted. We will take 4 cars from each heat and they will advance to main (16 cars). Sunday there will be 2 consi's with top 3 advancing to main (22 cars). Provisional for 23rd spot will be from the Blue/Gray qualifier race. 24th spot will be from fast time not making the field. 25th spot will go to track points. 26th spot will go to longest towing race car not making field (Out of Carolinas). 27th spot will be Past Champion Stock 4 if needed. (2011, 2010, 2009) 28th spot will be Guaranteed 11-11-12 winner only, if needed. 50 lap main.

Extreme 4 will have a $75 entry fee with $1,500 to win. All cars will qualify to set heats (4 heats). All cars will run a heat race with top 4 cars inverted. We will take 4 cars from each heat and they will advance to main (16 cars). Sunday there will be 2 consi races with top 3 cars advancing to main (22 cars). 23rd spot will be track points. 24th spot will be from Blue/Gray qualifier race, if needed. 25 lap main.

Young Guns will have a $50 entry fee with $1,000 to win. All cars will qualify to set heats (3 heats). All cars will run a heat race with top 3 cars inverted. We will take 6 cars from each heat and they will advance to main (18 cars). Sunday there will be 1 consi race with top 4 cars advancing to main (22 cars). Provisional for 23rd spot will be from the qualifier race. 24th spot will be from track points. 15 lap main.

There will be a $10 transponder rental fee for all 3 divisions, unless you have your own transponder or have access to borrowing one from someone. If so, you will need to sign-in your transponder number at registration.

Receivers are mandatory. Track does not supply, drivers responsibility to possess Receiver.

Young Guns drivers a copy of your birth certificate or drivers license will need to be turned in at registration. Please remember to bring this!

Friday admission will be grandstands free with pit admission $10. Saturday admission will be grandstands $10 with pit admission $20. Sunday admission will be grandstands $15 with pit admission $30. A two day pass will be available for grandstands at $20 and pits at $45.     

Stock 4 Purse - $5,000, $2,000, $1,000, $700, $500, $400, $300, $250, $225, $200, $175, $150, $125, $100 thru field.

Extreme 4 Purse - $1,500, $800, $500, $350, $250, $200, $150, $125, $100, $80, $75 thru field.

Young Guns Purse - $1,000, $500, $300, $200, $150, $125, $100, $80, $70, $60, $50 thru field.

Crate Sportsman will be the support division that races on Sunday only with hot laps, qualifying, heats, and main. The event will pay $500 to win. If 15 or more cars, a extra $300 will be added to purse. Drivers will decide how to distribute.

Mike Marlar Wins Blue Gray 100 SAS Event At Cherokee Speedway

Mike Marlar of Winfield, Tenn. took tops honors Sunday at Cherokee Speedway in winning the 22nd Annual Blue Gray 100 worth $10,000 sanctioned by the Southern All Stars Racing Series.

Blue Gray 100 Finish: 1) Mike Marlar, 2) Jared Landers, 3) Dennis Franklin, 4) Casey Roberts, 5) Ivendent Lloyd Jr., 6) Chris Madden, 7) Chris Ferguson, 8) Jamie Lathroum, 9) Petey Ivey, 10) Ricky Weeks, 11) Jeff Smith, 12) Dale Hammond, 13) Doug Sanders, 14) Johnny Pursley, 15) Randy Weaver, 16) Steve Francis, 17) Josh Henry, 18) Mike Gault, 19) Jonathan Davenport, 20) Steve Shaver, 21) Billy Workman, 22) Bret Holmes, 23) Bubba Russell.

Fast Qualifier: Randy Weaver (15.361)

Heat Race Winners: Randy Weaver, Mike Marlar, Jared Landers

Southern All Stars Blue/Gray 100 Paying $10,000 To Win Set For Sun Nov 18th At Cherokee

After a four year absence, the Southern All Stars Dirt Racing Series will return to Lennie Buff's Cherokee Speedway paying $10,000 to win on Sunday Afternoon November 18, 2012 for the 22nd annual Blue/Gray 100. The series' last to Cherokee Speedway was in November 2008 when Randle Chupp claimed the Blue/Grey 100 event win. The defending race winner is Jonathan Davenport of Blairsville, GA who claimed the event win during the Ultimate Series-sanctioned race in 2011. Multiple winners of the Blue/Gray 100 include Freddy Smith (three times); Scott Bloomquist (three times); Chris Madden (three times) and Donnie Moran (two times).

Randy Weaver of Crossville, TN holds a 110 point lead over current runner-up and Rookie of the Year leader Mike Weeks of Friendsville, TN in the SAS championship point standings. Shan Smith of Dade City, FL, Billy Ogle Jr. of Knoxville, TN and Skip Arp of Georgetown, TN reside in third through fifth in series points. David Payne of Murphy, NC won the series' most recent event at the Toccoa (GA) Speedway during the Georgia State Championship race on October 27th where he collected his first-career SAS victory over Casey Roberts of Toccoa, GA and Mike Weeks of Friendsville, TN.

In addition to the SAS Late Models on Sunday's group qualifying, heat races, Last Chance Showdowns and the 100 lap main event, the Crate Late Models will qualify and run their Main event and the Renegade, Stock Four, Open Wheel Modified and Vintage Cars will run their main events that afternoon. On Saturday, the track hosts opening Blue/Grey events with Renegade, Stock Four, Young Guns and Extreme Four preliminaries.

Schaeffer's Racing Oil will be providing a case of oil to the SAS Super Late Model event winner and a case of products to the FredWhiteRacing.com Overall Fast Time Award at Cleveland and Cherokee.

The gates open Saturday 11:00 am with Tech and Registration open from 11:30 until 12:50 and the Driver's Meeting will be at 1:00 pm. Gates will open SUNDAY 10:00 am, Tech and Registration open from 10:45-11:50 and the Driver's meeting will be at 12:00 pm.

On Sunday, Adult General Admission is $25.00 but a two day pass (includes Saturday) can be purchased for $30.00. In the Pits, it will be $35.00 per person but a two day pass (includes Saturday) can be purchased for $40.00. Camping is welcomed in the parking area outside of the Speedway but no hook-ups are available.

The night before the Blue/Gray 100, the SAS Late Models will race at the Cleveland Speedway in Cleveland, TN for the 24th annual Gobbler/Joe Lee Johnson Memorial event paying $5,000 on Saturday Night November 17th.

Further information on the Cherokee Speedway can be obtained by calling the track office at (864) 489-1969 or call track owner Lennie Buff at (864) 505-9199. The Cherokee Speedway is located at 153 Speedway Road, Gaffney, SC 29341. Keep up to date on the Cherokee Speedway Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/cherokeespeedway 

Further information on the Southern All Stars Dirt Racing Series can be obtained by calling General Manager Lynn Acklin at (256) 509-6603 or PR/Race Director Chris Tilley at (606) 219-1723 or you can log on to the official series website at www.sasdirt.com . Also, LIKE the Southern All Stars Dirt Racing Series on Facebook or be a FOLLOWER on Twitter @SASDIRT.

Blue/Gray 100 Winners: 1991 - Freddy Smith, 1992 - Scott Bloomquist, 1993 - Donnie Moran, 1994 - Scott Bloomquist, 1995 - Donnie Moran, 1996 - Scott Bloomquist, 1997 - Clint Smith, 1998 - Jack Pennington, 1999 - Freddy Smith, 2000 - Freddy Smith, 2001 - Steve Lucas, 2002 - Jeff Cooke, 2003 - Petey Ivey, 2004 - Chris Madden, 2005 - Randy Weaver, 2006 - Chris Madden, 2007 - Jimmy Owens, 2008 - Randle Chupp, 2009 - Dale McDowell, 2010 - Chris Madden, 2011 - Jonathan Davenport

SAS $10,000 to win Purse: 1) $10000, 2) $5000, 3) $2500, 4) $2000, 5) $1500, 6) $1300, 7) $1200, 8) $1100, 9) $850, 10) $800, 11) $750, 12) $700, 13) $650, 14) $600, 15) $550, 16) $500, 17) $500, 18) $500, 19) $500, 20) $500, 21) $500, 22) $500, 23) $500, 24) $500.

2012 Southern All Stars Dirt Racing Series Sponsors

Hoosier Racing Tire "The Official Race Tire" of the Southern All Stars Dirt Racing Series

VP Racing Fuels "The Official Fuel" of the Southern All Stars Dirt Racing Series

Arizona Sport Shirts "The Official Merchandise Vendor" of the Southern All Stars Dirt Racing Series

2012 Southern All Stars Dirt Racing Series Supporters Include: Schaeffer's Racing Oil by Elaine White, Gotta Race, AR Bodies, Brodix Cylinder Heads, Cruise with the Champions, MSR Mafia Web Design and Service and H3 Performance Graphics.

Southern All Stars Dirt Racing Series Championship Points (after October 27th)

1. Randy Weaver-1,148 (Crossville, TN)
2. Mike Weeks-1,038 (Friendsville, TN)
3. Shan Smith-818 (Dade City, FL)
4. Billy Ogle Jr.-672 (Knoxville, TN)
5. Skip Arp-544 (Georgetown, TN)
6. Riley Hickman-512 (Chattanooga, TN)
7. William Thomas-500 (Phenix City, AL)
8. Jake Knowles-458 (Tyrone, GA)
9. Mark Vineyard-454 (Powell, TN)
10. Ray Cook-440 (Brasstown, NC)

November 17th And 18th Schedule & Line Up

The 2012 event will pay $4,000 to the winner. One of several memorials held at Cherokee Speedway each season for the super late models. The Stick Elliott race hits home for people in the local community. Stick was from nearby Shelby N.C. His daughters were raised in Gaffney S.C which is also the home of Cherokee Speedway.
 
Born Gene Daves and known to most as Stick Elliott, this race honors the Shelby NASCAR and dirt track star. Elliott competed against the likes of Ralph Earnhardt and Billy Scott on the Carolina clay. Stick collected over 400 career feature victories, with 106 of them from 1967-69 while driving for Toy Bolton. He drove a Ralph Earnhardt-owned car in 1973, winning 18 straight races. Carolina legend has it that Stick tutored Dale Earnhardt on how to race on dirt while stacking up his 9 track championships at Metrolina Speedway in Charlotte, NC. He had 93 NASCAR' starts from 1962-71. 'Stick Elliot' lost his life to Cryptococcal Meningitis on November 1st, 1981. "'Stick' Elliott was one of the hardest drivers to ever come out of this area. He was an icon to the sport," said Cherokee Speedway announcer Kevin Wray.
 
"It is one event I look forward to each year, it is great that Charlotte (Sticks wife) and her daughters can come out to this race each year." stated series director Timmy Mcabee. "The last few years have been pretty touching, as Sticks grandchildren have been able to come out and see the race that honors their grandfather. It is ironic as I had the privilege of going through school and even living in the same neighborhood with two of Stick's daughters and never knew who their father was until the 11th grade" added Mcabee.
 
Cherokee Speedway Promoter Lennie Buff followed by saying "The Stick race has always been a staple here at Cherokee Speedway. We intend to continue to work with the Daves family and keep it here at home."
 
2012 has been an extremely competitive year thus far for the drivers. No driver has yet to visit victory circle more than one time. "The Mac Daddy" Dale Mcdowell picked up the most recent win in Beast competition as he ousted the field on July 3rd also at Gaffney. Other drivers to visit victory lane in 2012 include Ross Bailes, Johnny Pursley, Casey Roberts and "Rambo" Dennis Franklin.
 
Johnny Pursley will lead the BEAST drivers into Cherokee Speedway as he currently holds the points lead over Casey Roberts, Ross Bailes, Mike Gault and Jeff Smith. "We know all of those guys we are racing are tough to beat, they want a championship just like we do. This makes Bobby and the crew work even harder on the car. We have to be on top of our game at every race." stated Pursley.
 
Past winners of the Stick Elliot Memorial Race include Mike Duvall, Rambo Dennis Franklin, Chris Madden, Casey Roberts and defending race winner Chris Ferguson
 
Beast Series Tire Rule:Hoosier 1300:1350:1600 / American Racer 44:48:56
 
For information on "THE BEAST SERIES" please visit us online at www.racethebeast.com and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BEASTRacingSeries.
 
Cherokee Speedway will open its gates at 4 PM on Saturday and the drivers meeting is scheduled for 7:30 with racing to begin at 8 PM.
 
Cherokee Speedway is conveniently located off of I-85 exit 96 in Gaffney, SC. Physical Address is 153 Speedway Drive in Gaffney, SC 29341. Track phone is (864) 489-1969. More info can be found online at www.cherokeespeedwaysc.com  and visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cherokeespeedway for the most up to date Speedway information.
 
The BEAST Series sponsors include: PPM Products, VP Racing Fuels, Hoosier Tires, American Race Tires, Big A's Custom Graphics, SRI-Supplies, Steel & Stock Car Aluminum Inc., Velocita & Thomas Clarke Performance.
 
For More Series Information Please Contact:
Timmy Mcabee 864-761-6039
Clint Elkins 980-429-0398
Technical Questions: Chester Brooks 704-200-7379
Media Relations: Jason Curd - Dirtmanjc@aol.com

The BEAST Series Returns To Cherokee August 4th

The BEAST Super Late Model Series returns to Cherokee Speedway Saturday August 4th for the "Stick Elliott Memorial" event paying $4,000 to win. Cherokee Speedway support divisions will be racing as well.

July 28th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday July 28th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

July 21st Schedule & Line Up

Saturday July 21st racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

July 14th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday July 14th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

July 7th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday July 7th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. Crate Late Model, Limited Sportsman, Crate Sportsman, Renegade, Stock 4, Young Guns, and Extreme 4 if 15 or more cars in the division there will be a $200 bonus added to the payout for that division. Drivers will decide how to distribute in purse. Crate Sportsman drivers in free (You will pay at the gate then your pit fee will be refunded in your pay envelope at payout) . Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

McDowell Wins Robert Pursley Memorial BEAST Event At Cherokee

By Gene Murphy: Dale McDowell dominated the Robert Pursley Memorial at Cherokee Speedway Tuesday night and pocketed $5,000 for his efforts.

The Chickamauga, Ga., native led flag to flag in the 40 lap BEAST Series main event after earning the pole position in time trial qualifying among 19 entrants.

“The car was good, but my hat's off to John and Johnny Pursley tonight,” McDowell said. “This race was about their father and grandfather. It was pretty neat with Johnny starting up there next to me (outside of row one). I lost my mother last year, so it's pretty special when you honor someone like that.”

At the drop of the green flag, McDowell outran Pursley to the first corner and secured the top spot off of Turn 2. Behind them, Ross Bailes, who won this race last year, lost the third spot to Casey Roberts in the first couple of laps.

Following the first caution period on the seventh lap, McDowell again got the jump on the ensuing restart over Johnny Pursley. The two cars of Brian Ledbetter and John Pursley tangled off of the second turn, which brought out the yellow again.

The yellow waved for a third and final time on Lap 13. Shortly after that restart the best battle on the track was a battle for the fifth spot between Chris Madden, Dennis Franklin, and Jeff Smith. The three-way fight for the position brought the grandstand crowd to their feet. Madden slid high and Franklin and Smith both drove to the low side past him.

The track visibly began to rubber up before the field took the halfway sign from the flagman. As the track blackened, Johnny Pursley was able to run into the corners deeper for a few laps and close the gap on McDowell. But McDowell's machine rotated through the corners well and he increased the distance with a good run off the turns.

In the closing laps, the right rear brake rotor on McDowell's car was glowing orange. With the added braking however, McDowell was keeping his car straighter through the turns, decreasing the tire wear.

At the checkered flag, McDowell's advantage over Pursley was about a half a straightaway. Bailes, Roberts, and Franklin rounded out the top five.

BEAST Series Event Finishing Positions:

1) Dale McDowell
2) Johnny Pursley
3) Ross Bailes
4) Casey Roberts
5) Dennis Franklin
6) Jeff Smith
7) Chris Madden
8) Mike Gault
9) Zack Mitchell
10) Brent Dixon
11) Tim Allen
12) Robbie Bailey
13) Scott Shirey
14) Thomas Hedgpath
15) Travis Leake
16) Andy Blackwood
17) Furman Parton
18) Brian Ledbetter
19) John Pursley

The next event for the BEAST series will be August 4th at Gaffney SC as they will be at Cherokee Speedway for the Stick Elliott Memorial.

For information on "THE BEAST SERIES" please visit us online at www.racethebeast.com and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BEASTRacingSeries . For more Series information please contact Timmy Mcabee at jammer50@charter.net or at 864-761-6039. Also contact Clint Elkins at clint@carolinaautoracingshow.com or at 980-429-0398.

The BEAST Series thanks the following sponsors : Hoosier Racing Tires, American Racing Tires, Big A's Custom Graphics, VP Racing Fuels, PPM Products, Thomas Clarke Performance, Velocita, CARS Carolina Auto Racing Show, and Sisco fire and Safety.

July 3rd Schedule & Line Up

The BEAST Super Late Model Series returns to Cherokee Speedway Tuesday July 3rd for the 7th Annual Robert Pursley Memorial paying $5,000 to win. Divisions also scheduled to race on July 3rd include: Crate Late Model $1,000 to win, Crate Sportsman $600 to win, Renegade $500 to win, Open Wheel Modified $600 to win, and  Extreme 4 $300 to win. Gates open at 5:30 PM. with drawing from 6:00 PM. till 7:20 PM. Drivers meeting will be at 7:30 PM.

7th Annual $5,000 Robert Pursley Memorial Race Set For Tuesday July 3rd At Cherokee Speedway

 July 3rd is always big race & firework night at Cherokee Speedway, but this year's race is a little extra special as it will carry the 7th Annual Robert Pursley Memorial Race billing under the sanction of the BEAST Series. Fans around the Carolinas flock to this Memorial race each year to pay tribute to the Pursley family who has contributed so much to local racing. "The difference this year will be the reason for this race and the increased purse money. We are already at $5,000 to win and looking at several enhancements to the purse. I will say you can expect it to grow up to race week" stated BEAST Series Director Timmy Mcabee.

The additional purse money comes in from family and friends that The Pursley's have met and built relationships throughout their racing journey. There are always those "private" donations also. "After working with John & Johnny and everyone involved over the past few seasons, I am always honored when they ask me to help put this deal together." This race means more than just loud engines and fast cars to The Pursley Family. It is a time of remembrance for their HERO. The man the community knew as "POP" is celebrated by the gathering of people who all have the love of racing in common. "We will announce the official purse in the coming weeks, and with John you just never know what kind of cards he is holding." Mcabee went on to say. In the last two years alone, this race has paid out over $43,000 in total purse (combined).

Robert "Pop" Pursley, the father of John Pursley/grandfather of Johnny Pursley Jr. was a fixture atop the grandstand anytime John and Jr. were racing. He was a devoted family man that was well liked in the community. 'Pop' was a friend to many of John and Johnny's competitors, and a few of their heated rivals too. Many say he never met a stranger at the race track, and it's only fitting this race carries on his legacy."He was my hero," said son John Pursley. Jeff Smith, son of Dirt Hall of Fame Freddy Smith, added "It was an honor to win the first Robert Pursley Memorial. I've known John for years and his dad was a lot like my grandfather as far as being friendly to everyone and well respected at the tracks."

Announcer and long time promoter Duane Goins reflects on Mr. Robert 'Pop' Pursley, "I'd see Mr. Pursley come in right before hot laps, with that blue shirt and those red suspenders. I'd go into part of my act, saying the family section is over here, drinking section over there, and all with red suspenders need to sit waayyyy down there on the end behind the light pole! He'd just keep walking, slowly throwing up that hand. He knew it was all an act and he was part of the show. Before the night was over, I'd take time to go and shake that hand. He was a true 'fan in the stands'. I miss those race nights, and I miss Mr. 'Pops' Pursley. I'm very sure a lot more folks do also, he was a great one."

Past winners of the Pursley Memorial Race include Jeff Smith, Furman Parton, Chris 'Smokey' Madden, Chad Paxton, Casey Roberts and last year's winner Ross Bailes.

Cherokee Speedway is conveniently located off of I-85 exit 96 in Gaffney, SC. Physical Address is 153 Speedway Drive in Gaffney, SC 29341. Track phone is (864) 489-1969. More info can be found online at www.cherokeespeedwaysc.com  and visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cherokeespeedway for the most up to date Speedway information.
 

For information on "THE BEAST SERIES" please visit us online at www.racethebeast.com and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BEASTRacingSeries. For more Series information please contact Timmy Mcabee (jammer50@charter.net) at 864-761-6039 or Clint Elkins (clint@carolinaautoracingshow.com) at 980-429-0398.

 
The BEAST Series thanks the following sponsors : Hoosier Racing Tires, American Racing Tires, Big A's Custom Graphics, VP Racing Fuels, PPM Products, Thomas Clarke Performance, Velocita, CARS Carolina Auto Racing Show, and Sisco fire and Safety

June 30th Race Canceled

Racing for Saturday June 30th at Cherokee Speedway has been canceled due to the extreme and dangerous heat.

June 30th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday June 30th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

Francis Is Fantastic In Winning Grassy Smith Memorial At Cherokee Speedway

Steve Francis of Ashland, KY held off a late-race charge from Jonathan Davenport of Blairsville, GA to win the 14^th Annual Grassy Smith Memorial on Friday Night at Cherokee Speedway. Francis earned his third Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series-sanctioned win of 2012 while piloting the Valvoline, Barry Wright House Car. He is taking home $10,000 for the victory. It is also Francis’ first ever win at the track. Steve Shaver of Vienna, WV, got around Davenport near the end, to finish second. Davenport had passed Francis for the lead heading down the backstretch with five laps remaining, but a caution flag sent him back to the second spot, taking away the potential winning pass. Davenport got out of the groove in turn two on the ensuing restart which allowed Shaver to get by. Mike Marlar of Winfield, TN finished fourth, followed by 2-time series champion, Scott Bloomquist of Mooresburg, TN. Don O’Neal of Martinsville, IN led the first 18 laps of the race. Francis passed him in heavy traffic on lap 19. O’Neal then suffered driveline failure on the restart, forcing his car to slow dramatically on the frontstretch. Jimmy Owens of Newport, TN, the current series point’s leader, suffered a flat tire and pitted, giving up fifth position in the race.   Owens had run as high as second until his tire started to go flat. Francis went on to lead the rest of the event and took the victory at his car owner and chassis builder, Barry Wright’s home turf. “To win for Barry and Lance Wright here at their home track is just terrific! I couldn’t wait until this race was over, because I wasn’t sure how much right rear tire we had left. We held on, and I had to get up on the wheel at the end when Jonathan pressured me on the outside,” said the 44-year-old racer. We have been coming here a long-time and to finally win here is something we can be proud of, the Clements Engine ran great and the car was just superb, I was saving my tires. I got a little too conservative there, we caught a break on that yellow when he (Davenport) got by me.” Completing the top ten were Dale McDowell of Chickamauga, GA; Jeff Smith of Gastonia, NC; Dennis Franklin of Gaffney, SC; Jimmy Owens of Newport, TN; and Earl Pearson Jr. of Jacksonville, FL. In preliminary action, Mike Marlar set the Red Buck Cigars Fast Time amongst the 28 entrants with a lap of 15.541 seconds. Heat races were taken by: Jimmy Owens, Steve Shaver, Don O’Neal, and Steve Francis. Johnny Pursley and Ross Bailes won their respective B-Mains.

For the latest breaking news on the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series, log onto www.lucasdirt.com and be sure to follow the series at www.facebook.com/lucasdirt and www.twitter.com/#!/lucasdirt.

Red Buck Cigars Fast Time: 
Jonathan Davenport / 15.652 seconds (Group A and Overall)
Mike Marlar / 15.541 seconds (Group B)

Wiles Driveshafts First Heat (10 Laps- Top 4 Advance): Jimmy Owens, Jonathan Davenport, John Blankenship, Eric Wells, Johnny Pursley, Freddy Smith, John Pursley

U. S. Steel Second Heat (10 Laps- Top 4 Advance): Steve Shaver, Casey Roberts, Tyler Reddick, Austin Hubbard, Jeff Smith, Ty Dillon, Chris Madden-DNS

Simpson Performance Products Third Heat (10 Laps- Top 4 Advance): Don O'Neal, Jared Landers, Mike Marlar, Dale McDowell, Ross Bailes, Tim Rivers, Dennis Franklin

HAWK Brakes Fourth Heat (10 Laps- Top 4 Advance): Steve Francis, Scott Bloomquist, Chris Ferguson, Earl Pearson, Jr., Mike Gault, Donald Bradsher, Brent Dixon

JRi Shocks First B-Main (12 Laps – Top 3 Advance): Johnny Pursley, Jeff Smith, Ty Dillon, John Pursley, Freddy Smith-DNS, Chris Madden-DNS

PAC Racing Springs Second B-Main (12 Laps – Top 3 Advance): Ross Bailes, Mike Gault, Donald Bradsher, Dennis Franklin, Tim Rivers, Brent Dixon

Lucas Oil Dirt Late Model Series "Grassy Smith Memorial" Feature Results: 1) Steve Francis #15, 2) Steve Shaver #6s, 3) Jonathan Davenport #15d, 4) Mike Marlar #5b, 5) Scott Bloomquist #0, 6) Dale McDowell #17m, 7) Jeff Smith #18m, 8) Dennis Franklin #37c, 9) Jimmy Owens #20, 10) Earl Pearson Jr. #44, 11) Eric Wells #18e, 12) Mike Gault #17, 13) Ross Bailes #87, 14) Johnny Pursley #B4, 15) Austin Hubbard #11h, 16) Tyler Reddick #11t, 17) Brent Dixon #1d, 18) Ty Dillon #41, 19) Casey Roberts #101, 20) Donald Bradsher #93, 21) Freddy Smith #16, 22) John Blankenship #23, 23) Jared Landers #5, 24) Don O'Neal #71, 25) Chris Ferguson #22

Race Statistics:

Entrants: 2
Lap Leaders: Don O’Neal (Laps 1 -18); Steve Francis (Laps 19 – 50)
Caution Flags: Ross Bailes (Lap 19); Earl Pearson Jr., Ross Bailes, John Blankenship (Lap 19); Eric Wells (Lap 27); Ty Dillon (Lap 44); Austin Hubbard (Lap 45); Tyler Reddick (Lap 49)
Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Provisionals: none
Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Emergency Provisional: none
Red Buck Cigars Fast Time Provisionals: Brent Dixon, Dennis Franklin
Cherokee Speedway Track Provisional: Freddy Smith
Optima Batteries Hard Charger of the Race: Dennis Franklin (Started 24^th; Finished 8^th; Advanced 16 positions)
Allstar Performer of the Race: Steve Francis
Sunoco Race for Gas Highest Finisher: Steve Shaver
ASi Racewear Challenge Finisher: Steve Francis
Quarter Master Rookie of the Race: Jonathan Davenport
COMP Cams Engine Builder of the Race: Roush-Yates Racing Engines
Ohlins Shocks Chassis Builder of the Race: Barry Wright Race Cars
Sweet Mfg Crew Chief of the Race: Lance Wright (Steve Francis)
Time of Race: 40 minutes 59 seconds

June 22nd Schedule & Line Up

The Lucas Oil Dirt Late Model Series will be at Cherokee Speedway Friday June 22nd hosting the "Grassy Smith Memorial" event. The Lucas Oil Dirt Late Model Series show will be worth $10,000. Support divisions will include Crate Late Model, Limited Sportsman, Crate Sportsman, and Stock 4. Grandstand admission will be $25 and pit admission will be $35. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drawing from 5:30 PM. to 6:50 PM. and drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

For more information on the Lucas Oil Dirt Late Model Series visit www.lucasdirt.com .

June 16th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday June 16th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

The Lucas Oil Dirt Late Model Series Coming To Cherokee June 22nd

The Lucas Oil Dirt Late Model Series will be at Cherokee Speedway Friday June 22nd hosting the "Grassy Smith Memorial" event. The Lucas Oil Dirt Late Model Series show will be worth $10,000. Support divisions will be racing also. Grandstand admission will be $25 and pit admission will be $35.

For more information on the Lucas Oil Dirt Late Model Series visit www.lucasdirt.com .

June 9th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday June 9th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions including a $1,000 to win Crate Late Model event. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

June 2nd Schedule & Line Up

Saturday June 2nd racing program will be a regular show for all divisions including a $900 to win Limited Sportsman event. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

May 26th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday May 26th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. Divisions scheduled to race on May 26th include Crate Late Model, Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Renegade, Stock 4, Extreme 4, and Young Guns. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

Carolina Driveline Schools Summer Shootout

Carolina Driveline Schools out for Summer Shootout is shaping up to be another great success in its second season! The event will be held on Saturday May 26th for the Young Guns paying $500 to win. Some of the event sponsors include: Carolina Driveline, Mechanical Edge, Scraps for Us, The BEAST Series, Cherokee Landscaping, HiBridge Automotive, STI Trucking, Taylor Puckett Racing, Upstate Medical Supply, Carolina Collision, The Arsenal, Lil Indy Speedway, and Double Deuce Decals.

May 19th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday May 19th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. Divisions scheduled to race on May 19th include Crate Late Model, Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Stock 4, Extreme 4, Young Guns, and Open Wheel Modified. The racing program will also include twin mains for Extreme 4 along with the Open Wheel Modified Southern Modified Tour race. Any division having 15 or more cars will have a $200 bonus added to the purse and drivers will decide how to distribute. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM. The Renegade division will be off on May 19th.

May 12th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday May 12th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions plus $1,000 to win in Crate Late Model. Divisions scheduled to race on May 5th include Crate Late Model, Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Renegade, Stock 4, Extreme 4, and Young Guns. Any division with 15 or more cars will have a $200 bonus. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

May 5th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday May 5th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions plus $500 to win in Renegade. Divisions scheduled to race on May 5th include Crate Late Model, Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Renegade, Stock 4, Extreme 4, Young Guns, and Open Wheel Modified. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

April 28th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday April 28th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions plus $600 to win in Crate Sportsman. Divisions scheduled to race on April 28th include Crate Late Model, Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Renegade, Stock 4, Extreme 4, and Young Guns. There will be a $200 bonus for any division having 15 or more cars. Drivers will decide in drivers meeting how to disburse. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

Dennis 'Rambo' Franklin Beats The Rain & Tames The BEAST At Cherokee's Rock Gault Memorial
 

As the rainy weather played in the distance surrounding the famed Cherokee Speedway, many longtime fans new faces were spotted at the track for The BEAST season opening ROCK GAULT MEMORIAL. As the clouds broke and the skies cleared, the race track was ready for hot laps on a track that was smooth and fast. Johnny Pursley, Dennis Franklin, Tim Allen and Chris Madden laid down the top 4 speeds of each of the sessions. Dallas N.C driver Jeff Smith got off to a terrible start as his engine went south just after two practice laps. "It's frustrating, a real tough pill to swallow, Zach and the crew worked a lot of hours, over night, and all day to get this piece ready and all for two laps" said the pilot of the 18M. As time trials rolled around, it was Augusta GA native John Henderson's turn for his as his 2x machine made a popping noise as he sailed into turn one. Henderson would also be a scratch for the remainder of the event even though he turned in the 9th fastest time on the night. Clover's Johnny Pursley who was sporting a new haircut and a new ride for the BEAST series, took the Bobby Wilson Owned Service Master Clean, Chris McCraw-CPA. Pa sponsored B4 to the top of the grid. With the field now set for the 40 lap feature, teams made final adjustments to their race cars, and made their way to the frontstretch. Pole sitter Johnny Pursley opted to use the outside pole starting position, forcing Rambo down to the bottom. "That is common here, everyone wants to be on the outside coming to the green flag" Pursley later stated, With the field in tow, the #17 MotorMaxx, Gault's Used Cars Rocket chassis of Mike Gault proudly displayed the checkered flag and moved over to form the missing man formation in honor of late father Edgar "Rock" Gault. Once the fireworks were done, and the cars were lined back up, the green flag flew, and Pursley and Rambo raced to turn one. It did not take Pursley long to know he had made the wrong choice on this night, as Rambo was able to get enough grip on the bottom to power past the B4 coming off turn two. That was the last real challenge Franklin would get. His paced over the caution free 40 lapper would only slow due to lap traffic. Looking down in victory lane, you can bet that if his son could not be victorious only one other driver could make him smile in this event. That driver was none other than the driver of the AES #37 Barry Wright chassis, Dennis Rambo Franklin. Mike Gault got into victory lane as soon as possible, with a big smile and a huge congrats to Franklin. After securing the $4,000 pay day Franklin went on to say the track was super fast, near as perfect as he had ever seen, "It got just a bit choppy going into turn one, other than that, you can't get it any better than what we had here tonight" said Franklin of the track conditions. "We came here tonight with intentions of trying something we have never tried and it was fast right off the truck." Franklin later added. As the race wound down, Pursley came home 2nd, Casey Roberts finished 3rd after holding off a hard charging Chris Madden, and Dustin Mitchell rounding out the top 5. Up next the BEAST tour visits Gordon Park this Saturday April 28th for the 2nd Annual Jack Starrette Memorial.  

Rock Gault Memorial Finishing Positions:

1) Dennis Franklin
2) Johnny Pursley
3) Casey Roberts
4) Chris Madden
5) Dustin Mitchell
6) Brent Dixon
7) Ricky Weeks
8) Zach Mitchell
9) John Pursley
10) Jay Sessoms
11) Tim Allen
12) Doug Sanders
13) Mike Gault

Ross Bailes DNS
John Henderson DNS
Jeff Smith DNS

For information on "THE BEAST SERIES" please visit us online at www.racethebeast.com and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BEASTRacingSeries . For more Series information please contact Timmy Mcabee at jammer50@charter.net or at 864-761-6039. Also contact Clint Elkins at clint@carolinaautoracingshow.com or at 980-429-0398.

The BEAST Series thanks the following sponsors : Hoosier Racing Tires, American Racing Tires, Big A's Custom Graphics, VP Racing Fuels, PPM Products, Thomas Clarke Performance, Velocita, CARS Carolina Auto Racing Show, and Sisco fire and Safety.

April 21st Schedule & Lineup

Saturday April 21st Cherokee Speedway will be hosting the Rock Gault Memorial. The racing program will include racing in The BEAST Super Late Model Series ($4,000 To Win), Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Renegade ($500 To Win), Young Guns, and Open Wheel Modifieds ($700 To Win). Gates open at 5:00 PM. Drawing will be held from 5:30 PM. to 6:50 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM. Grandstand admission will be $20 with pit admission being $30. Kids 10 and under free.

Renegade purse is as follows: $500, $300, $175, $125, $100, $75, $60, $50, $40, $30, $25.

Open Wheel Modified purse is as follows: $700, $350, $270, $230, $200, $150, $125, $100, $90, $80, $70 To Start.

"The New BEAST Series Roars Into Cherokee Speedway For The 3rd Annual Rock Gault Memorial Sat. April 21st"

The "Battle Of The Eastern All-Stars Tour" better known as "THE BEAST SERIES" is ready to kick off its 2012 race season with its first scheduled event at "The Place Your Mama Warned You About" Cherokee Speedway located in Gaffney, SC. on Saturday Night April 21st.

The Speedway is ready to get back to big time Super Late Model racing under the lights at the semi banked oval that is known to provide exciting side by side action. The event will be paying $4,000 to win will pay honor to the Speedway Legend "Rock Gault ". Support division include Limited Sportsman, Crate Sportman, Renegade, Young Gun and Open Wheel Modified classes. Gates open at 5, Drivers Meeting at 7 and Hot Laps to immediately follow.

Ed 'Rock' Gault, the well respected and loved owner/promoter of more than 30 years at Cherokee Speedway left his mark on the sport and area racers. "He made Cherokee Speedway the home to himself and his family, I am honored to be a part of this great event" said track promoter Lennie Buff.

"I loved that ol' man," were the words of C.L. Pritchett, a former dirt star from Commerce, Ga., and outright cult figure in the dirt racing world. "We would come up there from Georgia and take that money from those North and South Carolina boys, and Ol' Rock would always make sure we were coming back the next week. If we had trouble, he made sure we had enough to get back home."

When asked to present a memory of Rock Gault, 1985- 1991 and 2006 Cherokee Speedway announcer Duane Goins said, "You had to listen real close to what he was saying, but he always made a point. He really saw the big picture, no matter what was going on. He used to come up on Saturday when he 'declared' the track ready to race on and would show me how it looked. I used to tell him that if he did it long enough, he might get it right. He liked me to pick at him, and he always returned it in some way. That's MY Rock Gault, and I'm sure for many others. The racing community misses him. I still miss him."

Cherokee Speedway is conveniently located off of I-85 exit 96 in Gaffney, SC. Physical Address is 153 Speedway Drive in Gaffney, SC 29341. Track phone is (864) 489-1969. More info can be found online at www.cherokeespeedwaysc.com and visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cherokeespeedway for the most up to date Speedway information.

For information on "THE BEAST SERIES" please visit us online at www.racethebeast.com and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BEASTRacingSeries . For more Series information please contact Timmy Mcabee at jammer50@charter.net or at 864-761-6039. Also contact Clint Elkins at clint@carolinaautoracingshow.com or at 980-429-0398.

The BEAST Series sponsors include: PPM Products, VP Racing Fuels, Hoosier Tires, American Race Tires, Big A's Custom Graphics, and Thomas Clarke Performance.

The Beast Series Ready To Invade Cherokee Speedway For Stop One

"Battle Of The Eastern All-Stars Tour" better known as "THE BEAST SERIES" is ready to kick off its 2012 race season with its first scheduled event at "The Place Your Mama Warned You About" Cherokee Speedway located in Gaffney, SC. on April 21st. Cherokee Speedway is a 3/8 mile semi banked oval in which provides exciting side by side action. The event will be paying $4,000 to win and it will be apart of the "Rock Gault Memorial". For more information concerning Cherokee Speedway visit there website at www.cherokeespeedwaysc.com . For more information on "THE BEAST SERIES" visit there website at www.racethebeast.com .

The BEAST Series sponsors include: PPM Products, VP Racing Fuels, Hoosier Tires, American Race Tires, Big A's Custom Graphics, and Thomas Clarke Performance.

April 14th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday April 14th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

April 7th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday April 7th racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM. The Easter Bunny will be visiting Cherokee Speedway on April 7th and Cherokee Speedway will hold a supervised Easter egg hunt during hot laps for kids 6 and under along with a egg race for kids 7 to 11 and 12 to however old. The egg race will be held on the front stretch. Lots of candy and prizes for kids. Limited Sportsman will have a $500 bonus added to purse for 10 or more cars. Admission for April 7th will be stands $10, pits $20, and kids 10 and under free.

March 31st Schedule & Line Up

Saturday March 31st racing program will be a regular show for all divisions. Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM.

March 24th Schedule & Line Up

Saturday March 24th racing program will be a regular show including $1,000 to win in Crate Sportsman, Renegade, and Stock 4. Limited Sportsman, Extreme 4, Young Guns, and Open Wheel Modifieds will also be racing. Crate Late Models will be off.  If 16 or more cars show in (Limited Sportsman, Extreme 4, Young Guns, and Open Wheel Modifieds) a $500 bonus will be added to that divisions purse. Bonus will be added throughout the field; Not just on top.  

Crate Sportsman, Renegade, and Stock 4 divisions will be on transponders. ($10 rental or bring your own and give transponder # at drawing) Drviers will draw for a qualifying position, then 4 cars at a time will qualify during hot laps to determine starting positions for heats.

Gates open at 5:00 PM. with drivers meeting at 7:00 PM. Grandstand admission will be $10 with pit admission being $20. Children 10 and under free.

No Racing At Cherokee On March 18th

Cherokee Speedway has made the decision to cancel  Sunday March 18th event due the rain at Lancaster. We fell that it's best to work with them in this case. Next Saturday March 24th will be our first night race. The event will be paying $1,000 to win in Stock 4, Renegade, and Crate Sportsman. $500 will be added to the regular purse in any other classes having 16 cars or more. Crate Late Models will be off.

Jared Landers Captures $15,000 To Win March Madness X

Jared Landers of Batesville, Arkansas scored the second biggest win of his career on Sunday afternoon by topping the $15,000 to win March Madness X event at Cherokee Speedway. It was a flag to flag victory for Landers as he led all 75 laps.

Super Late Model "March Madness X" Rundown:
1) Jared Landers #5
2) Steve Francis #15
3) Casey Roberts #101
4) Chris Madden #44
5) Dale McDowell #17M
6) Dennis Franklin #37C
7) John Pursley #9
8 ) Ty Dillon #41D
9) Chris Ferguson #22
10) Ross Bailes #B4
11) Scott Bloomquist #44S
12) Mike Gault #17
13) Donnie Tanner #22T
14) Johnny Pursley #09
15) Donald Bradsher #93
16) Jonathan Davenport #15
17) Brent Dixon #1D
18) Brandon Overton #76
19) John Henderson #2X

Support division winners include: Crate Late Model: David Smith #11, Crate Sportsman: AJ Cable #G1S, Limited Sportsman: Danny Tessnier #25T, Renegade: Pebo Johnson #11, Extreme 4: Scott Cloniger #3C, Stock 4: Brayden Pruitt #13, and Young Guns: Devin Fuller #25.

March Madness Set For March 3rd And 4th

Cherokee Speedway will kick off its 2012 racing season on March 3rd and 4th with the tenth edition of 'March Madness' featuring an Old-Fashioned Unsanctioned $15,000 to win Super Late Model show, the largest winner's purse paid at the famed speedway in modern history. This will be an Outlaw event pitting Hoosier vs. American Racer tire, utilizing the Lucas Series tire rule of nothing softer than 1300 or SD44 and Punch Rule in effect. Cherokee Speedway is still fresh on the minds of fans for a spectacular season ending Blue Gray 100 that many regard as one of the best races ever at the historic speedway. 'Superman' Jonathan Davenport kept the crowd on their feet as he went on to beat out a star studded field which included Dale McDowell, Chris Madden, Dennis Erb Jr, Booper Bare, Earl Pearson Jr, Steve Shaver and his new Clint Bowyer racing team mate Jared Landers. Davenport is expected to be on hand to defend his 2011 March Madness 9 victory, another great race where he edged Scott Bloomquist to the checkered flag. The driver list is getting longer each day, and Cherokee Speedway plans to hold an open practice Saturday Feb 25th from 1-5 PM to allow teams to shake down their new cars.

The line up for Saturday March 3rd will include hot laps for Super Late Model, Crate Late Model, Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Renegade, Stock 4, FWD, and Young Guns. Qualifying will include Super Late Model (2 Laps), and Crate Late Model (2 Laps) . Heat races will include Super Late Model (8 Laps), Crate Late Model (8 Laps), Crate Sportsman (5 Laps), Limited Sportsman (6 Laps), Renegade (5 Laps), Stock 4 (5 Laps), FWD (5 Laps), and Young Guns (5 Laps) . Main events on Saturday will include Renegade (10 Laps), FWD (10 Laps), and Young Guns (10 Laps) . Cherokee Speedway will also be having a 45 minute open practice at the conclusion of Saturdays main events.

The line up for Saturday March 4th will include hot laps for Super Late Model, Crate Late Model, Crate Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, and Stock 4 . The program will also include the consi race for Super Late Model in which will be 10 Laps. Main events on Sunday will include Super Late Model (75 Laps) $15,000 to win, Crate Late Model (20 Laps), Crate Sportsman (10 Laps), Limited Sportsman (12 Laps), and Stock 4 (10 Laps) .

Gates will open both days at 10 AM, Drawing at 10:30 AM, Drivers Meeting at 12:00 PM and Hot Laps immediately following. Admission will be as follows: Stands (Sat. $10) (Sun. $25) (2 Day Pass $30) / Pits (Sat. $20) (Sun. $35) (2 Day Pass $45).

For schedule, point standings and Cherokee Speedway is conveniently located off of I-85 exit 96 in Gaffney, SC. Physical Address is 153 Speedway Drive in Gaffney, SC 29341. Track phone is (864) 489-1969. More info can be found online at www.cherokeespeedwaysc.com and visit our Facebook page for the most up to date race information.

Open Practice Set For February 25th

Open practice before the 2012 racing season starts at Cherokee Speedway has been set for February 25th. Practice will be for all divisions and will begin at 1 PM. Practice will end at 5 PM.

Rock Auto Joins Cherokee Speedway Sponsors

A special thanks to sponsor RockAuto.com for providing wristbands for the event. Order auto parts online from RockAuto.com 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and have them conveniently delivered to your door. RockAuto.com has everything from one lug nut to a new fender or remanufactured engine; all at everyday low prices. Visit RockAuto.com after the race and find all the parts your car or truck will ever need!