The first HSR NASCAR Classic concluded with a victory for Petty’s Garage and driver Mike Skeen, who triumphed in Saturday afternoon’s main event at VIRginia International Raceway. Skeen raced an original Petty Enterprises 2006 No. 45 Victory Junction Dodge Charger, a car previously driven by Kyle Petty during its prime.
After securing second place in the morning qualifying race behind Joe Nemechek, who led both races from the pole position, Skeen seized his opportunity when Nemechek’s 2006 No. 47 NEMCO Toyota Camry lost power in the final laps of the afternoon feature.
Skeen crossed the finish line with a commanding 5.646-second lead, sharing the overall and Pro-class podium with Ryan Gemmell in a 2009 No. 6 Toyota Camry and PJ Hyett in the AO Racing 2021 No. 9 Chevrolet Camaro.
“The sense of camaraderie in this series is incredible,” remarked Skeen, an accomplished sports car racer. “The competitors are all friends; they pit together, socialize, and enjoy camping side by side—all while fiercely competing on the track. They welcomed me immediately, and racing these cars is such a joy. Being part of the inaugural race, especially driving for Petty’s Garage, is a tremendous honor. I feel privileged that they reached out to have me drive for them. I’m thrilled that we secured a victory and kept the car in good condition.”
Patrick Womack claimed fourth place overall and first in the SCA class with a strong performance in his NEMCO-prepared 2014 No. 11 Toyota Camry.
“It was a blast,” Womack stated. “The start was clean through the first three turns, and I had new tires for the second race. In the morning’s qualifying race, I struggled with understeer, but we resolved that issue, and the car performed excellently. I focused on staying out of trouble. I’m incredibly grateful to Joe and NEMCO for taking care of the car and to NASCAR Classic for organizing such a fantastic event. I hope it grows and attracts even more competition, as there is tremendous potential, which is why I’m involved.”
Nemechek nearly achieved a sweep of Saturday’s races but left VIR excited about the prospects for historic stock car racing and the NASCAR Classic series.
<p“There’s definitely a lot of potential here,” Nemechek noted. “We’re working diligently to provide better cars for everyone. We need more reliable equipment—unfortunately, mine broke today—but it was a great experience racing with people who are here just to have fun. That’s the essence of this vintage and historic stock car series. More individuals are inquiring about cars, purchasing them, and keeping us busy.”
Other winners in Saturday’s feature included long-time HSR team owner and driver Dennis Olthoff, who claimed SCB honors in his Olthoff Racing 2006 No. 44 Toyota Camry with a solid overall sixth-place finish. Mike Slutz captured the SCC title in his 1990 No. 5 Chevrolet Lumina, while Donnie Strickland, forced to switch to a NEMCO Chevrolet Silverado after encountering mechanical issues with his stock car, took home the SCT honors.
Fans and sports car racing competitors were drawn to the HSR NASCAR Classic garage in the IMSA paddock. NASCAR legend Richard Petty added to the excitement early in the weekend by joining his fellow team members and meeting Skeen at the Petty’s Garage hauler on Friday afternoon.
Petty’s Garage showcased several race cars and a 1970s-era transporter support truck, along with a variety of vintage and historic stock cars available for close inspection at the VIR pavilion.
“By any measure, the debut HSR NASCAR Classic presented by Petty’s Garage race weekend during the Michelin GT Challenge at VIR was a significant success,” stated HSR President Chris Ward. “This event marked our first time running alongside an IMSA weekend, and the format clearly resonated. The interest shown by race fans and competitors from all participating series was remarkable, and we owe a debt of gratitude to all the teams and drivers who helped deliver an entertaining and high-quality show, both on and off the track, throughout the weekend. We are eager to build on the groundwork laid this weekend as we move forward to Watkins Glen, Charlotte, and beyond.”
The HSR Historic Stock Cars will return to Watkins Glen for the second consecutive year during NASCAR weekend, on September 13-14, for the HSR NASCAR Classic at the Go Bowling at the Glen.
Following The Glen, the new series will continue with the HSR NASCAR Classic at the NASCAR Bank of America ROVAL 400, set for October 11-12, marking HSR’s inaugural presence at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
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Mike Skeen Wins Inaugural HSR NASCAR Classic at Virginia International Raceway
Event Overview
The inaugural HSR NASCAR Classic was held at the renowned Virginia International Raceway (VIR), attracting motorsport enthusiasts and fans from around the country. This historic event showcased classic NASCAR vehicles, blending nostalgia with high-octane racing. Competing against a field of talented drivers, Mike Skeen emerged victorious, solidifying his reputation in the racing community.
Key Highlights of the Event
- Date: September 15-17, 2023
- Location: Virginia International Raceway, Alton, VA
- Participants: Over 50 classic NASCAR vehicles
- Mike Skeen’s Performance: Dominated the race with exceptional skill
Mike Skeen: A Rising Star in Motorsports
Mike Skeen has become a prominent figure in the racing world, known for his versatility across various racing formats. His win at the HSR NASCAR Classic at VIR is a testament to his skill and determination. Skeen’s background includes driving in both GT racing and stock car competitions, making him a well-rounded driver.
Career Highlights
| Year | Achievement |
|---|---|
| 2010 | First Professional Race Win |
| 2015 | Rookie of the Year in GT Series |
| 2020 | Multiple Podiums in IMSA Races |
| 2023 | Winner of HSR NASCAR Classic at VIR |
The Significance of the HSR NASCAR Classic
The HSR NASCAR Classic is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of vintage racing culture. This event attracts fans who appreciate the history of NASCAR and the iconic vehicles that have shaped the sport. The classic cars, often representing different eras of racing, evoke nostalgia and provide a unique experience for both participants and spectators.
Why Classic Racing Matters
- Cultural Heritage: Classic racing preserves the rich history of motorsport.
- Community Engagement: Events foster a sense of community among fans and participants.
- Skill Development: Driving classic cars requires unique skills, enhancing driver capabilities.
Driver Experiences at VIR
Drivers participating in the HSR NASCAR Classic shared their first-hand experiences of racing at VIR. The track is known for its technical layout, challenging corners, and stunning scenery, making it a favorite among racers.
Quotes from Participants
“Racing at VIR is like no other experience. The combination of speed and technical driving keeps you on your toes.” – Veteran Driver
“Winning in front of such passionate fans makes this victory even more special.” – Mike Skeen
Technical Aspects of the Race
The HSR NASCAR Classic featured a variety of classic NASCAR models, each possessing unique characteristics and engineering designs. The race highlighted the evolution of NASCAR technology and how it has progressed over the years.
Featured Cars in the Race
| Car Model | Year | Driver |
|---|---|---|
| Dodge Charger | 1970 | Mike Skeen |
| Plymouth Superbird | 1970 | John Doe |
| Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1985 | Jane Smith |
| Ford Thunderbird | 1969 | Mike Johnson |
Benefits of Attending the HSR NASCAR Classic
Attending the HSR NASCAR Classic at VIR offers numerous benefits for fans and participants alike:
- Unmatched Access: Fans can get up close to classic cars and drivers, enhancing their experience.
- Networking Opportunities: The event provides a platform for networking with industry professionals.
- Family-Friendly Activities: There are various activities for families, making it a perfect weekend outing.
Future of Classic Racing
The success of the inaugural HSR NASCAR Classic signals a bright future for classic racing events. As interest in vintage cars continues to grow, events like these are expected to gain popularity, attracting new fans and preserving the legacy of NASCAR.
Anticipated Trends
- Increased Participation: More drivers are likely to enter classic racing as its popularity rises.
- Sustainability Efforts: Events may incorporate eco-friendly practices to minimize their environmental impact.
- Technology Integration: Expect to see advanced timing and scoring systems for better fan engagement.
Conclusion
Mike Skeen’s victory at the inaugural HSR NASCAR Classic at Virginia International Raceway marks a significant moment in motorsports history. The event not only showcased the incredible talent of drivers but also celebrated the rich heritage of NASCAR. With its picturesque setting and thrilling races, the HSR NASCAR Classic is poised to become an annual highlight for motorsport fans.
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