Pictured: Johnny Kent (55) & Gary Owens (33)
Photo Credit: Mike Howard
Tulsa Okla. (May 10, 2016) - It's time to up the ante in terms of miles per hour as the Ameri-Flex / OCRS winged sprint cars take on the baddest boy in the region this Saturday night, the Salina Highbanks Speedway in Salina Oklahoma. With it's 22 degree banking in the turns, the open wheel pilots can plant their right rear tires into the banking and speed through the turns like no other. Drivers will tell you, if you don't control your breathing properly, you literally get your breath taken away from the high speeds which have been known to hit over 130mph on the straights.
Coming into the event, Norman Oklahoma's Sheldon Barksdale brings his two victories to the Highbanks including last weekends victory in the 8th Annual Harold Leep Jr Memorial at the Oklahoma Sports Park, a race where Barksdale decimated the field. Another driver with a hot hand that looks to win their third of the year is Alex Sewell of Broken Arrow. Sewell won back to back events before running his midget last weekend in Missouri.
Add the likes of points leader Whit Gastineau, Robert Sellers and Zach Chappell among others and the competition for the right to park in victory lane is stout. Race fans can always expect superb racing action at the Highbanks. A unique fan amenity the Highbanks offers is the excellent Finishline Restaurant that sits atop the grandstands. The steaks are some of the best you will ever taste and there are multiple selections offered throughout the menu that will enhance your entertainment experience. If you have yet to try it, you should.
Nutz n' Boltz
Your Chariot Awaits Sir
Expected to be back with the series this week is Shane Sellers who has been AWOL since leaving for his military commitments back east. Sellers is buried deep into the standings after only making the season opener. While it will be a miracle for Sellers to crack the top 10 in overall points for 2016, he does have a chance to make the Ameri-Flex Challenge in September. If anywhere between 15-19 races are held leading up to the event (depending on rain-outs), the car owner (in this case Steve Schmidt) can miss up to 4 events and qualify the car providing the team has enough points. This puts the team with a fighting chance but they cant miss a show and be hopeful. "Thank You" for your unselfish service Mr. Sellers.
Looking Mighty Divine
The Matt Sherrell / Paul Johnson combo is looking pretty good after only 2 races together. After a 6th place run in their first endeavor at the Outlaw Motor Speedway, Johnson gave the 'Mongoose' another try at the wheel last weekend. Sherrell responded with a third place run this time around. While the team won't be at every event together, look for more good things to come when they are partnered up in the pits.
Letting Us Know He's Here
Tim Kent, who was once a series regular, has made some cameo appearances in past seasons. To date, Kent has competed in two of the five 2016 events. He was 11th at the Outlaw Motor Speedway last month and last weekend, Kent ran a strong 6th in a 25-lap non stop affair. Kent was a no-show in 2015, but In 2014, Kent ran a 3rd at Caney Valley Speedway and took a 5th at the South Coffeyville Speedway. Both in non-wing action and in the Brian Gramm number 3 car. Kent is managing his schedule in parts this season. He is looking to finish the month of May with the series before deciding his next moves.
Dont Doubt This Family's Loyalty
One of 'The Best' supporters of the series is the Pickard family from Edmond. Over the past couple of seasons, the Pickard family makes sure their team participates regardless of when and where or if it's hot or cold. Perry Pickard is the pilot of the P78 sprinter. If its good for the series, the Pickard's are all for it including having their close pals race with them from time to time. While others tend to rake in the glory by way of wins, for the Pickard family, while winning is a goal, it's all about competing at their best and making sure the family has a good time and enjoys what they are doing. In other words, racing the way it was been meant to be. Promoters are fans of the Pickard's because they know they come in numbers.
It's All About The Eagle
Other than the specially made acrylic trophy that awaits the annual winner of the Oklahoma State Championship race, the most coveted trophy in the series hands down is the "Flying Eagle" supplied by the Highbanks' promoter, David Edwards. The eagle trophy is a generous piece of hardware and the winners will tell you it stands out well once put in their designated space.
Ready for the speed of which only the Highbanks can offer? If so, this Saturday night is your moment as it's time to "FEEL THE THUNDER"
What: Ameri-Flex / OCRS Sprint Cars + Regular Classes
When: Saturday May 14, 2016
Where: Salina Highbanks Speedway / Salina Oklahoma
Time: Gates open at 5pm / Hot laps at 6:30pm / Racing begins at 7pm (OCRS drivers meeting at 6:00pm)
Tickets: 13 & UP: $15 / Kids 7-12: $10 / 6 yrs and under FREE / VIP Area $25 / Pit Pass: $35
Location: Racetrack sits directly on Highway 20 between Pryor and Salina.
Track Phone: (918) 434-RACE (7223)
Track Website: www.salinahighbanksspeedway.com
About the Ameri-Flex / OCRS Series -
Established in 2002, the Tulsa OK based Ameri-Flex / OCRS series sanctions dirt track sprint car racing in the southern region of the central plains. Fan appeal and quality race teams, combined with our solid core of supporting sponsors are the nucleus of the series. Thrilling competition providing the ultimate quality family entertainment is the essence of what the Ameri-Flex / OCRS series is all about.
Website: www.ocrsracing.com
About Ameri-Flex Hose & Accessories -
Located in Tulsa OK, Ameri-Flex Hose & Accessories is a family owned and operated company. From food grade hose to hoses for the petroleum industry, Ameri-Flex will strive to fill your needs. Ameri-Flex can build a hose to your specifications or we will assist you in creating what you have designed while you wait. Ameri-Flex has several hard to find items that some vendors can’t get or find. Product can be shipped quickly and efficiently. If we do not have what you are looking for, we will direct you on where to find it. Give us a try, after all…………..
Ameri-Flex Has The Stuff That Keeps You Going!
Website: www.ameriflexhose.com
- John Lemon on May 11, 2016
- Article Date: 5/11/2016 by John Lemon