A look at prominent Pro/Super Late Model Racing Regions Part 4 (Michigan & Northwest USA)
August 4th, 2024
Introduction
In this part, we dive into the Super/Pro Late Model asphalt oval racing scenes in Michigan and the Northwest USA. These regions boast a rich history of competitive racing, producing numerous standout drivers and hosting some of the most prestigious events in the sport.
Michigan
Michigan has long been a hotbed for asphalt racing, with its tracks playing a crucial role in the development of drivers and the sport itself.
Key Tracks and Series:
Berlin Raceway: Located in Marne, Berlin Raceway is one of the premier tracks in Michigan. Hosting the Berlin Raceway Super Late Model Series, it’s known for its high-speed racing and competitive fields. The track is also home to two significant events: the Money in the Bank 150 and the Battle at Berlin. Both races attract top talent and offer substantial payouts, with the Money in the Bank 150 awarding $15,000 to the winner and the Battle at Berlin offering a $30,000 prize.
Kalamazoo Speedway: Another significant venue, Kalamazoo Speedway, is famous for the Kalamazoo Klash, a major event attracting top talent from across the country.
CRA Super Series: The Champion Racing Association (CRA) Super Series often includes stops in Michigan, providing a platform for local drivers to compete against national talents.
Notable Drivers:
Erik Jones: A native of Byron, MI, Jones has made a significant impact in Late Model racing. He won the Money in the Bank 150 at Berlin Raceway, marking an emotional victory as it coincided with the anniversary of his father's passing. Jones has also competed in and won the Battle at Berlin, he has won the most widely considered ultimate crown jewel race in Super Late Models, the Snowball Derby twice in a row, and he’s won the crown jewel NASCAR Cup Series race, the Southern 500 twice. He is currently in the NASCAR Cup Series, but still dips his toes in the Super Late Model scene sometimes.
Carson Hocevar: From Portage, MI, Hocevar is another rising star who has achieved success at Berlin Raceway. He won the Money in the Bank 150 in 2021, along with many crown jewel and marquee races, such as the Winchester 400, and continues to be a formidable competitor in the Super Late Model scene, while racing with Erik Jones in the NASCAR Cup Series, as a rookie.
Johnny VanDoorn: A three-time CRA Super Series champion, VanDoorn has made a significant impact in the Late Model racing scene, known for his consistency and skill, and among other achievements, has a very dominant Redbud 400 win.
Brian Campbell: Another standout from Michigan, Campbell has multiple victories in the CRA Super Series and Berlin Raceway championships.
Chase Burda: A young up and comer from Michigan, who has had plenty of success along the path to Late Models, including a JEGS CRA Pro Late Model Series Championship.
Evan Shotko: Young racer from Michigan who has won the Berlin Raceway Late Model championship, along with the Battle of Berlin, multiple Motor Mountain Masters, and top-5s in marquee Pro Late Model races around the country.
These are just a few of many.
Major Events:
Battle of Berlin 250: Held at Berlin Raceway, this mid-week race attracts NASCAR Cup Series stars, usually who come from a background in Supers, and many of the best racers from around Canada and the USA. This year, 2024, it will pay $40,000 USD to win.
Money in the Bank 150: Also held at Berlin Raceway, this marquee race pays $15,000 USD to win, and also attracts a talent rich field from various regions, as well as the strong local contingent.
Northwest USA
The Northwest USA, encompassing states like Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, also features a vibrant racing culture with its own set of storied tracks and events.
Key Tracks and Series:
Evergreen Speedway: As the largest track in the region, Evergreen Speedway in Monroe, Washington, hosts the prestigious Summer Showdown, one of the richest Super Late Model races in the country.
South Sound Speedway: Located in Tenino, Washington, this track is known for its competitive weekly racing and special events like the South Sound 200.
Northwest Super Late Model Series: This series travels across the Northwest, bringing together the best drivers from the region to compete in a variety of challenging races.
Notable Drivers:
Garrett Evans: A legend in Northwest racing, Evans has numerous championships to his name, including titles in the NASCAR Northwest Series and the Northwest Super Late Model Series.
Jeff Jefferson: Known for his versatility, Jefferson has found success in both Late Models and other forms of racing, becoming a well-respected figure in the Northwest racing community.
Along with plenty more.
Major Events:
Summer Showdown: Held at Evergreen Speedway, this event attracts top drivers from across the country, offering a large purse and a highly competitive field.
Montana 200: While technically in the Mountain region, this race at Montana Raceway Park is a major event for Northwest drivers and is often considered part of the Northwest racing calendar due to its proximity and significance.
Conclusion: Michigan and the Northwest USA are critical regions in the landscape of Super/Pro Late Model racing. With their historic tracks, prestigious events, and notable drivers, these areas continue to contribute significantly to the sport's growth and popularity.
