Race
Fans Enjoy the Daytona 500 in Style at Changing Times Pub
by J.A. Ackley
Despite blustery conditions, many were on hand to
enjoy the Daytona 500 at the Changing Times Pub along with their many
raffles, food, drink, and other goodies.
Outside many show cars were on hand. Mike Penso
brought out his #45 Brawny Dodge, a real race-used NASCAR Nextel Cup
car, driven by Kyle Petty. Penso picked up the car from an auction from
a Chicago car museum. Penso was excited to be on hand and even was in
Petty Enterprises attire.
Marty Himes came with his classic #250 Liberty
Special Chevrolet racecar, along with a 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air and an
old sedan from the 1940’s. In addition to the cars, Marty Himes came
along with his incredible wealth of knowledge of Long Island Racing
ranging from Long Island drivers who raced at Daytona to racing at our
local Deer Park Stadium. The walking talking encyclopedia of Long
Island racing was also presented with a 2006 photo album from Riverhead
Raceway courtesy of Denise’s Photos. The nice gesture elated Himes, as
it was another piece to his vast collection.
Joseph Burns had his family-owned #35 Late Model on
hand. His father John, picked up the car down in Georgia and has
prepared it for a run at various tracks around the Northeast, including
Mountain Speedway, Adirondack, Jennerstown, etc. The young 14-year old
going on 15-year old is looking to get seat time after spending time
last year in Allison Legacy cars.
Other drivers were present as well. The whole
Brunnhoelzl family was on hand to watch the race, Eddie Jr., Eddie III,
Denise, Keri, Michele, and Nicole were having fun, including their
extended family as well. 2007 Mountain Speedway champ, Eddie
Brunnhoelzl III just came from New Smyrna and informed us that his 2007
racing plans are still up in the air, but travel still looks likely.
Justin Bonsignore was spotted as well, after
running New Smyrna. Bonsignore plans to run the full Riverhead gauntlet
in hopes of not only getting his first win, but contending for the
championship.
Kevin Orlando, Brian Brown, Frank Dumicich, Jr.,
and Matt Schaefer claimed the Pit Crew Challenge which was held via
racing games on the Playstation due to inclement weather. For 2007
Orlando returns to his family owned #99 charger, hoping to return to his
Charger glory he had 2 years ago. Frank Dumicich Jr. will be running in
the Super Pro Trucks, with a new teammate of his sister Erin. We’re
sure if they get out of line, their father Frank will be right there to
discipline them on the track, as he’s a former Super Pro Truck champion
in his own right. Brian Brown plans to run Grand Enduros along with
selected regular enduros.
In addition to all the racers on hand, Steady Eddy
from WBAB 102.3 was on hand along with the WBAB 102.3 prize van to
provide some extra prizes and entertainment. The Coors Light girls
added to the mix as well, providing raffles for the invitation only
Maxim party in Manhattan.
Lastly, the fan’s fans were on hand, the Turn 1
Cowboys. They were making sure everyone was staying awake and in tune
with the racing, frequently changing bring on the racing, during
cautions. Only thing missing was their signs…
When it came to the Daytona 500, everyone had a
blast and it was the icing on the cake. With a photo finish, the whole
place erupted in cheers. We at LongIslandJam.com would like to thank
event organizers Mike Barnikel, Bob McCormack, Ursula Coppersmith, as
well as Changing Times Pub for having us. A good time was had by all,
and it was a nice kick start to the 2007 season.
Source: J.A.
Ackley/LongIslandJam.com
Posted:
February 19, 2007