Myers Puts Southern Modified Back In Martinsville Victory Lane

Saturday September 20, 2008

 

Burt Myers is seldom at a loss for words. But late Saturday afternoon, after his biggest racing win ever, the 32-year-old Myers was searching to describe his feelings.

Myers took the lead on lap 222 Saturday afternoon and was never challenged again on his way to victory in the Made In America Whelen 300 NASCAR Modified race at Martinsville Speedway. He picked up $8,000 for the win along with the coveted grandfather’s clock that serves as Martinsville Speedway’s winner’s trophy.

“You know … I know it’s hard to believe … I can’t really put it in words,” Myers said after the win. “I’ve been racing Modifieds for 15 years and to win here, it’s big, but I don’t think it’s really sunk in yet. Call me tomorrow. I bet I’ll have a lot more to say.”

Myers, of Walnut Cove, NC, passed Ryan Preece on lap 222 and wound up taking a 1.712-second victory over the 17-year-old Preece. Matt Hirschman finished second, followed by Reggie Ruggiero and Ted Christopher.

The Made In America 300 has been dominated by northern-based teams since its inception four years ago. Myers is the first southern driver to win the event at the historic half-mile track.

“Winning is probably a bigger deal for the media and the newspapers than it will be in the garage,” said Myers. “I think this tells the Southern fans that the Modified drivers down South can get it done. Hopefully this win shows that the Southern guys are for real.”

It was Myers’ second win of the season, and second in a row. Ironically, both wins have come since the birth of his son Slate a month ago.

“My baby boy is about a month old and I’ve won two races in a row that he has been with me,” said Myers. “If it’s OK with his mommy, I think he is coming back (to the track) with me.”

Action returns to Martinsville Speedway next weekend with the Bailey’s 300 Late Model Stock race.

The Bailey’s 300 weekend begins on Friday, September 26 with registration and inspection for the teams. The action ramps up on Saturday, September 27 with two hours of practice beginning at 9 a.m. followed by qualifying at 1 p.m.

The first of four 25-lap heat races will kick off the action on Sunday, September 28 at 12:30 p.m. The 200-lap feature will begin shortly after the final heat race. Fan gates will open at 8 a.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. on Sunday.

The fastest 22 drivers in qualifying will earn starting positions in the Bailey’s 300. The remaining 20 spots will be filled through the four, 25-lap heat races on Sunday, September 28.

Tickets for the Bailey’s 300 are $20 for adults, children 6-12 $5 and under 6 free. Tickets may be purchased by calling 877.RACE.TIX or by visiting www.martinsvillespeedway.com online.

This report was provided by an outside PR source and posted by Kim DeHaven.

 

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