UNCASVILLE, Conn. (Dec. 16, 2005) – Tony Hirschman, of Northampton, Pa. was honored as the 2005 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Champion on Friday night at the exotic Mohegan Sun Resort. Over 500 people attended the awards ceremony to honor Hirschman and the entire Kamco Supply Chevrolet race team for the second consecutive year.
Hirschman’s title was the fifth of his career. He won championships in 1995, 1996, 1999 and last season. It was his second championship with the Kamco Supply race team. He was presented the championship trophy from Phil Kurze, Director of Motorsports for Whelen Engineering. NASCAR Vice President Jim Hunter presented Hirschman with his fifth NASCAR Championship Ring.
Tom and Bob Kehley of Brooklyn, N.Y. received the car owner championship trophy. Matt Hirschman and Fran Gaspar were honored as champion Co-Crew Chiefs.
“Winning this championship for the fifth time means a great deal to me,” said Hirschman. “I’m glad I was able to help my car owners defend their championship.”
Several special awards were also presented during Friday night’s activities. The coveted Speed51.com Most Popular Driver Award was presented to the Hirschman for the first time in his career. Hirschman also received the 2005 season Bud Pole Award as he was fast qualifier on 7 occasions.
Tony Ferrante, Sr., and Tony Ferrante, Jr., were resented the Dedication to NASCAR Award for their long time support of the series. Ferrante Jr. announced his retirement as a driver at the end of the 2005 season.
Jake Marosz., was presented the series Sportsmanship Award. Marosz is a veteran campaigner who has lent a helping hand to numerous competitors during throughout his career.
Tyler Haydt was honored as the Sunoco Race Fuels Rookie of the Year. Haydt finished 15th the standings during his first full season.
The Tommy Baldwin Memorial Award for the season was presented to Ted Christopher. Christopher led the most laps in five races during the 2005 season.
Dave Etheridge was presented the 2005 Powerade Power Move of the Race Award.
The Featherlite Most Improved driver award was won by John Blewett, III. Steve Whitt was the recipient of the Driver Achievement Award after finish14th in the standings during the 2005 season.
The Top-20 drivers and Top-10 car owners were presented awards signifying their accomplishments during the season. The Top-10 drivers received jackets from Whelen.