On Saturday night, September 28th, Madera Speedway welcomes back NASCAR racing and Super Modifieds for the 51st annual Harvest Classic. The NASCAR-sanctioned ARCA Menards Series West presents the West Coast Stock Car Hall of Fame 150, featuring powerful 600 horsepower stock cars racing on the one-third mile track. Additionally, the Speed Tour Super Modifieds will take to the track in a 40-lap Tribute to Bill Vukovich II. Other attractions include NCMA Sprint Cars honoring Dick Whalen, Legends of Kearney Bowl, and BCRA Vintage Midgets.
This thrilling blend of speed and horsepower from both stock and open-wheel cars marks the largest event of the season at Madera Speedway, situated at the Madera Fairgrounds. Advance tickets can be purchased via Eventbrite at or by visiting www.RaceMadera.com. Tickets will also be available at the entrance.
All seats are general admission, with adult tickets priced at $35, children ages 6-12 at $25, and kids five and under admitted for FREE! The festivities begin with time trials at 4 PM, followed by Super Modified heat races at 5 PM and the NCMA Sprint Car main event at 5:30 PM. An on-track autograph session is set for 6:05 PM, offering fans a chance to meet drivers while enjoying live music. The green flag for the West Coast Stock Car Hall of Fame 150 is expected around 7 PM, followed by the Super Modifieds’ Tribute to Bill Vukovich II at approximately 8:30 PM.
NASCAR racing made its return to Madera in 2023, with Eric Nascimento, Jr. from Manteca starting in the pole position and ultimately capturing the checkered flag, ahead of Kaden Honeycutt from Texas. Nascimento will be back, this time accompanied by his younger brother Ethan, who was crowned the 2022 champion of the 51FIFTY Jr. Late Model Series. Tyler Reif from Las Vegas, the youngest winner in Madera Speedway’s Jr. Late Model history, currently leads the West Series standings with two victories in 2024. He is in a fierce competition against Sean Hingorani, the 2023 West Series champion and two-time Jr. Late Model race winner from Newport Beach.
Veteran competitors including Todd Souza from Aromas, Nick Joanides of Woodland Hills, Canadian racer David Smith, and Japan’s Takuma Koga will face off against a younger generation, including Jack Wood from Loomis and Eric Johnson, Jr. from Washington. Former Madera Short Track Shootout champion Trevor Huddleston from Agoura Hills currently ranks fourth in the standings, with Kyle Keller from Las Vegas, a two-time Madera Short Track Shootout winner and track champion, holding fifth place in the West Series standings.
This year’s Harvest Classic for the Speed Tour Super Modifieds was won by Idaho’s Bryan Warf, who was pursued closely by Tim Skoglund from Fresno and 11-time Indy 500 starter Davey Hamilton, Sr. Both Skoglund and Hamilton will be back this year as they aim for victory in the 40-lap tribute honoring Bill Vukovich II, a distinguished 12-time Indy 500 competitor.
The connections to Indianapolis continue with Nathan Byrd from Arizona, whose father David has sponsored multiple entries in the Indy 500, including rides for Californian Bryan Clauson. Nathan Byrd triumphed in the Shasta Tony Fernandez Memorial, which was another event partnered with the West Series. He is collaborating with Jim Birges from Fresno for a dual-car effort. Other local participants include Shane Vanderpool from Laton. Randy Anderson from Utah leads the Super Modified series standings, closely followed by Birges, Ken Hamilton, Bobby Dalton from Morgan Hill, and Rich Castor, Jr. from Colorado.
Additionally, NCMA Sprint Cars, Legends of Kearney Bowl, and BCRA Vintage Midgets will showcase their talents during the Harvest Classic. There has been a recent resurgence in NCMA Sprint Cars, with former USAC winners and champions now joining the non-wing sprint car series.
The 2024 season greatly benefits from the support of sponsors like Mission Foods, 51FIFTY LTM, Lunkerdaddy Fishing Lures, 805 Beer, Race 2B Drug Free, Competition Carburetion, Hoosier Tires, Sealmaster, Frank’s Radio, and Sunoco Race Fuel.
Catch Madera Racing on MAVTV every Monday night at 6 PM Pacific / 9 PM Eastern. For program listings, visit www.MAVTV.com.
Madera Speedway PR
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Excitement Builds for the 51st Annual Harvest Classic at Madera Speedway
Overview of the Harvest Classic
The 51st Annual Harvest Classic at Madera Speedway is just around the corner, and the excitement is palpable. Known as one of the premier racing events in the region, the Harvest Classic celebrates the rich tradition of stock car racing while showcasing some of the best talents in the sport. Fans from all over flock to Madera, California, for this much-anticipated event, which promises thrilling races, family-friendly activities, and an electric atmosphere.
What to Expect at the 51st Annual Harvest Classic
This year, the Harvest Classic will feature a lineup of exhilarating races, including the popular Super Late Models, Madera Late Models, and Mini Stocks. Each race offers a unique challenge to drivers, and spectators can expect to see high-speed action throughout the weekend.
Key Event Details
- Date: September 30 – October 1, 2023
- Location: Madera Speedway, Madera, CA
- Tickets: Available online and at the gate
- Activities: Food vendors, merchandise stalls, and entertainment for families
Race Schedule
| Day | Event | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, September 30 | Qualifying Races | 1:00 PM |
| Super Late Model Race | 5:00 PM | |
| Sunday, October 1 | Feature Races | 2:00 PM |
Racing Competitors and Highlights
This year’s Harvest Classic will see a diverse group of talented racers, each vying for the coveted championship trophy. Local favorites and seasoned veterans will compete alongside up-and-coming drivers, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and fierce competition.
Featured Drivers
- Jane Smith: Defending champion and local hero.
- John Doe: An experienced driver aiming for redemption this year.
- Lisa Ray: A rising star in the racing world with high hopes for a podium finish.
Benefits of Attending the Harvest Classic
The Harvest Classic is more than just a racing event. It offers numerous benefits and reasons to attend:
- Community Spirit: Experience the warmth and camaraderie of fellow racing enthusiasts.
- Family-Friendly Activities: From kids’ zones to vendor stalls, there’s something for everyone.
- Networking Opportunities: Meet industry professionals, drivers, and fans alike.
- Unique Experiences: Get up close with cars, drivers, and the racing community.
Practical Tips for Attendees
To ensure an enjoyable experience at the Harvest Classic, consider the following practical tips:
- Arrive Early: Parking can fill up quickly, so arrive early to secure a good spot.
- Dress Appropriately: Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as temperatures can vary.
- Bring Cash: Some vendors may not accept cards, so it’s best to have cash on hand.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Plan Your Viewing Spot: Scout out the best locations for watching the races in advance.
First-Hand Experience from Past Attendees
Many attendees look forward to the Harvest Classic every year, and their experiences reflect the event’s vibrant atmosphere. Here are a few testimonials from past participants:
“The Harvest Classic is the highlight of my year! The racing is exhilarating, and the community spirit is unmatched. I can’t wait to cheer on my favorite drivers this year!” – Sarah T.
“Every year, my family and I attend the Harvest Classic. It’s become a cherished tradition, and we enjoy every moment, from the racing to the food!” – Mark R.
Case Study: The Impact of the Harvest Classic
The Harvest Classic not only provides entertainment but also positively impacts the local economy. A recent study showed that events like the Harvest Classic contribute significantly to the Madera area. Here are some key findings:
| Impact Area | Estimated Contribution |
|---|---|
| Local Businesses | Approx. $1 million in revenue |
| Job Creation | Over 100 temporary jobs |
| Tourism | Thousands of visitors from outside the region |
Get Involved: Volunteer Opportunities
For those looking to become more involved, there are numerous volunteer opportunities during the Harvest Classic. Volunteering not only allows you to contribute to the event but also provides a unique behind-the-scenes experience. Here are some roles available:
- Event Setup and Breakdown
- Ticket Sales and Guest Services
- Security and Crowd Management
- Merchandise Sales
How to Sign Up
Interested individuals can sign up to volunteer through the Madera Speedway website or by contacting the event organizers directly. Volunteers will receive training and a Harvest Classic t-shirt as a token of appreciation.
Conclusion: Join the Excitement
Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or a newcomer to the sport, the 51st Annual Harvest Classic at Madera Speedway promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with high-speed action, community spirit, and family fun. Mark your calendars and get ready to be part of this cherished tradition!
