Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame
Subtitle
2020 Inductions Postponed
Elma, WA, March 10, 2020……With recommendations for the COVID-19 being so fluid and changing so quickly, the Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame Board of Directors late Tuesday evening made the difficult decision to postpone the 2020 EARHoF Induction Ceremony and all related activities.
Feeling it just wasn’t worth risking the large number of individuals in the group that would fall in the high risk category and getting conflicting information on the advisability of gathering, the board reversed its earlier decision to proceed.
“We are sorry for the late notice and any inconvenience this has created. The event was shaping up to be an outstanding and fun evening, but ultimately it is the safety of our families and friends that we must think of. We initially believed with added safety precautions that everyone would be safe, but information, suggestions and advice late Tuesday changed our minds.” explained board president Rick Leighty. “We hope everyone understands!”
Plans for rescheduling at a later date will be released as they become available.
.
One Month Until 2020 Induction Ceremony
Elma, WA, Feb. 14 .....One month and counting until the 2020 Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Be sure to keep March 14, 2020, open and join the EARHoF in honoring Donny Fry, Mary Skaramuca, John Goodwin Jr, Dean Clark, Noel Rich, and Larry DeMoss in a ceremony in the Pavilion at the Grays Harbor Fairgrounds in Elma.
The annual event will once again be held in the Pavilion Meeting Room. Doors open at 4 P.M. with several activities and viewing opportunities leading up to the enshrinement of the newest inductees.
New for 2020 is the Inaugural EARHoF Race Car Display held in the Pavilion Exhibition Hall. On display will the beautiful vintage cars of the Golden Wheels Fraternity, the I-5 Quarter Midgets featuring the miniature vehicles of the next generation of up and coming racers, the fastest growing group in the Northwest the Northwest Focus Midget Series, and the AMCA and NW Dwarf Cars featuring reduced scale cars that bring back memories of the vehicles that competed at the fairgrounds in the 50s and 60s. Also, on display will be cars represented the various classes competing at Grays Harbor Raceway. The Race Car Display will give spectators a chance to view the vehicles up close as while as afford the opportunity to ask questions and get information about the various groups. The display will be open from 4 until 7. Admission to the EARHoF Race Car Display in the Pavilion Exhibition Hall is free.
Well known and respected announcer, Fred Rannard Jr. of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, will be the featured speaker for the 12th EARHoF Induction Ceremony. It has been nearly a decade since Rannard has been in Elma. He returns with a wealth of knowledge about racing not only in the Northwest, but from coast to coast. The EARHoF is thrilled to be able to bring Rannard back to Elma and have him share his stories and experiences with us. 7:15 is the scheduled start of Rannard’s presentation.
Returning for the 4th year as emcee will be Andrew Kunas. The resident of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, makes the long trip each year to introduce the inductees and lead the ceremony. Kunas researches each of the honorees in preparation for the event and does a great job of honoring the individuals. The official enshrinement of the Inductees will follow guest speaker Rannard.
The popular and entertaining dessert auction returns in 2020 at 6 P.M. Unfortunately, auctioneer favorite Bob Valencia won’t be available this time around, but the event is in good hands as Andrew Kunas will add this duty to his tasks. Great desserts are sure to be on the auction block.
Great items have been collected for the annual silent auction. Though the bidders are anonymous the activity often gets very contentious as bidders try to out do each other. The silent auction begins at 4:00 and items are divided into 3 groups. Each group has different ending times as posted at the event.
A question and answer period with the 2020 Inductees will follow the ceremony and the event will conclude with an autograph session.
Memorabilia will be on display throughout the evening. Each inductee has been encouraged to share items that depict their racing days.
Appetizers and cake will be served. A no host bar will be available.
The event is open to the public and all ages are welcome. Admission is $10.
100% of the proceeds will be used by the EARHoF in its mission to preserve and honor the heritage of Grays Harbor auto racing and to support the EARHoF Scholarship Program. The Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame is a 100% volunteer, non-profit organization.
.
Inaugural EARHoF Race Car Display 3/14/2020
EARHoF Announces the Class of 2020
Rannard To Speak At 2020 EARHoF Inductions
Elma, WA, Aug 15, 2020.....Well known and revered announcer, Fred Rannard Jr., will be the keynote speaker at the 2020 Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Saturday, March 14, 2020. The 12th annual event will be held in the Grays Harbor Pavilion Meeting Room at the Grays Harbor Fairgrounds.
Rannard’s distinguished career, spanning the 1980s to the present, has allowed fans to hear him announce races at most Northwest speedways. He was also heard nationally as the announcer for Fred Brownfield’s National Sprint Tour in 2006. In 2019, Rannard has been heard at Agassiz Speedway in British Columbia, as well as occasional special events such as Clay Cup at Deming Speedway and The Rory Price Memorial at Evergreen Speedway in Monroe.
“We feel fortunate to have Fred Rannard, Jr. on the program,” stated EARHoF President, Rick Leighty. “Having known Fred for over 40 years I know he is going to have some great tales with which to entertain us. Fred is known for his wealth of knowledge, preparation, and catch phrases. His outgoing personality, work ethic, and voice make him a favorite of racers and fans alike. I can hardly wait for the induction night to get here,” further explained Leighty.
In his acceptance to the EARHoF’s invitation Rannard enthused, ”It would be an honor to speak at your 2020 induction ceremony. I’m thrilled to be asked to be a part of such a special event!”
Carla Stewart to Speak at EARHoF Inductions
Carla Stewart to Speak at EARHoF Inductions
Elma, WA, February 11, 2017….The March 18th date for the Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is quickly approaching, but the EARHoF Board of Directors continues the effort of making the event a special night representing the past, the present, and the future.
Carla Stewart has accepted the EARHoF’s invitation to speak and will be sharing the story of the Northwest Focus Midget Series with those in attendance.
Stewart’s enthusiasm for auto racing in general and the Focus Midgets in particular is infectious and has resulted in the Northwest Focus Midget Series being one of the largest groups of racers in the Northwest. The hard work and dedication of Carla and Gaylon Stewart and the Focus Midget racers have created a premier series providing great racing.
“Our connection with the midgets through the EARHoF Fast Time Award, made it a natural fit to have Carla speak,” enthused Rick Leighty, EARHoF President. “You can’t talk to Carla or Gaylon without getting thrilled for what they are doing. We’re excited to see what they have planned for the induction presentation.”
The 9th Annual EARHoF Induction Ceremony and Silent Auction will be held on Saturday, March 18, 2017, at the Stay Beyond Inn & Suites in Elma, Washington.
The event will get underway at 6 P.M. with a silent auction and social time. The ceremony will begin at 7 P.M. and along with Stewart’s presentation will see Dick Wilskey, Brian Sutherby, Al Lytle, Dick Aduddell, Arie Callaghan, and Bruce and Corinne Williams honored for their achievements and contributions to the sport of auto racing. Also announced during the ceremony will be the Larry Spoon Distinguished Service Award and the Fred Brownfield Exemplary Contribution Award. A dessert auction will be held following the inductions.
All activities are open to the public. Admission is $5 and includes an auction number, hors d’ oeuvres, cake, access to memorabilia, and all activities. All proceeds will benefit the EARHoF in honoring and preserving the heritage of Grays Harbor Raceway.
EARHoF Class of 2017 Announced
EARHoF Class of 2017 Announced
Elma, WA, February 6, 2017…..Five individuals and one husband and wife team comprise the Class of 2017 entering the Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame on March 18, 2017.
EARHoF President Rick Leighty released the names of Al Lytle, Dick Aduddell, Arie Callaghan, Brian Sutherby, Dick Wilskey, and Corinne and Bruce Williams in a statement congratulating the newest inductees into the Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame.
“Another fantastic group,” stated Leighty. “They cover the full spectrum; drivers, owners, officials, innovators, and outstanding sportsmanship. Our organization is pleased to be honoring these racers and their accomplishments. Congratulations to all the honorees and welcome to the EARHoF family.”
ALytle from Aberdeen began his career in the jalopies breaking the track record before moving on to the semi modifieds and stock cars. He also owned cars for drivers such as Earl Fritts and Dale Underwood. Currently Lytle owns two Malloy super modifieds that he has rebuilt to show car appearance and occasionally races with his driver Tony Thomas. Lytle is also a member of the Push Rods of Hoquiam.
Port Orchard’s Dick Aduddell raced one of the most recognizable sounding engines to circle the Grays Harbor Fairgrounds ½ mile. A Buick straight 8 propelled Aduddell to be one of the elite drivers of 1960s and fan favorite status. He was also known for his ingenuity and craftsmanship and built rearends and other components for himself and other racers. Aduddell was not afraid to travel and raced on most of the Northwest speedways operating in the ‘60s and ‘70s
Joining his father in the EARHoF is Brian Sutherby of Elma. A three time champion Sutherby won the ’87 hobby stock and the ’90 & ’91 sprint car titles. Sutherby was a three time kart champion before turning to the full size racers. All of this was accomplished despite having to overcome a childhood accident that left him with a left leg that doesn’t have full mobility. Since retiring from driving, Sutherby can often be found spectating at the races.
Honored posthumously will be Aberdeen’s Arie Callaghan. His career only lasted from ’65 – ’70, because of an illness that took Callaghan early in life, but he is remember for his laugh, smile, and brightly colored cars. Willing to help others on their cars Callaghan was well liked by racers and fans. The Callaghan family has a long involvement with the Push Rods of Hoquiam, a connection they maintain today.
Dick Wilskey called Seattle home and raced all over both as a driver and an owner. Known for his immaculately prepared cars, Wilskey once won “Best in Show” in a early ‘70s Seattle Car Show. Highly respected by fellow competitors and track officials, Wilskey was often asked his opinion on issues and oversaw GHR track operations after the untimely death of Fred Brownfield. Wilskey along with his daughter Shawna promoted the touring NSCS sprint car series in 2007 and remains a strong supporter of Northwest racing to this day.
Shelton’s husband and wife team of Bruce and Corinne Williams were car owners and EARA officers known for their willingness to unselfishly go out of their way to help others. Unknown to most EARA racers in the mid ‘80s is the fact that the club was struggling to survive and if not for the Williams’ effort and support most likely would not have been able to continue racing. Bruce Williams will be honored posthumously. Corinne Williams can often be found at NW drag strips. Their son Tom is a 2013 EARHoF Inductee.
The 2017 EARHoF Induction Ceremony and Silent Auction will be held Saturday, March 18, 2017, at the Stay Beyond Inn & Suites in Elma, WA. Activities get underway at 6 P.M. with a Social Hour/Silent Auction, while the honoring ceremony begins at 7 P.M. Admission is $5 which includes auction number, hors d’ oeuvres, and cake. Memorabilia will be on display.
All proceeds benefit the EARHoF a 100% volunteer Washington State non-profit organization in its effort to honor and preserve the auto racing heritage of Grays Harbor Raceway.
February 16, 2016, Elma, WA......The six newest members of the Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame, ranging from the man instrumental in bringing the Evergreen Stock Car Association to the Grays Harbor Fairgrounds to race winning drivers and track supporters has been announced by the EARHoF.
Harold Terwilliger, Stormy Glick, Bruce Clevenger, Don Braley, Dan Daniel, and Dale Underwood will officially enter the EARHoF during the 8th Annual EARHoF Induction Ceremony on Saturday, March 26th.
As president of the Evergreen Stock car Association Harold Terwilliger who resided in Montesano guided the group of racers in their infancy and signed the contracts that would move the races from the dust prone Evergreen Speedway on Clemons Hill to the ½ mile oval in Elma in 1957. Terwilliger will receive his recognition posthumously.
Longtime track supporter Stormy Glick of Elma can claim driving, car owning, sponsoring, and officiating among his many racing activities over a career that stretches more than 30 years. Glick’s support continues to be a vital element at the track today.
One might say Montesano’s Bruce Clevenger grew up at the race track. Clevenger’s dad Harold, a 2010 EARHoF Inductee was one of the original members of the Evergreen Stock Car Association. Bruce Clevenger became a successful limited modified racer in the 1980s and also served as an EARA officier and did track prep.
East Olympia supplied the Elma track with numerous competitors and amongst those is Don Braley. Starting in the jalopy class in the 1960s, Braley became a top competitor in the class and eventually also raced in the limited modifieds.
1983 Hobby Stock Rookie of the Year, Dan Daniel went on to win the 1986 Hobby Stock Championship. His number 3 from McCleary was always a top runner and crowd favorite no matter if it was in the hobby stock or super stock divisions.
Known as the “Kamakazi Kid”, Aberdeen’s Dale Underwood began racing in the early ‘70s in the limited modified division. Underwood raced until the early 2000's driving super stocks, hobby stocks and the current modified class.
“Another fantastic, well deserving group of inductees!” exclaimed Rick Leighty, EARHoF President. “We would like to thank everyone that nominated this year. A record number of nominations were turned in and it created an impressive list from which our selection committee voted.”
The 2016 EARHoF Induction Ceremony will be held at the Stay Beyond Inn & Suites in Elma, on Saturday, March 26th. A silent auction and social hour get the evenings activities started at 6 P.M. with the Induction Ceremony beginning at 7 P.M. Admission is $5 which includes silent auction number, hors d’ oeuvres, punch, and cake.
Northwest racing legend Jerry Day will be the keynote speaker and Phil Martelli will emcee the activies. The evening will conclude with a dessert auction and social hour.
The Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame is a 100% volunteer non-profit established to honor and preserve the auto racing heritage of Grays Harbor Raceway.
December 10, 2015, Elma, WA……The white flag is out and the checkered flag is about to be thrown for nominating outstanding individuals for 2016 induction into the Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame. In order to be considered for the next class into the EARHoF, nomination forms need to be completed and postmarked by December 31, 2015.
Eight new members will be selected as 2016 Inductees and will officially enter the EARHoF on March 26, 2016, in a ceremony to be held at the Stay Beyond Inn & Suites in Elma.
EARHoF President Rick Leighty reminds everyone that it is only by being nominated that a person can be considered for induction.
“We depend on families, friends, and fans to nominate their Grays Harbor Raceway heroes. If someone isn’t nominated the selection committee won’t be able to consider them because they won’t know about that person. The selection committee doesn’t come up with the candidates, they merely consider the nominated individuals and vote on those candidates. Their votes elect the 8 inductees for that year. So, don’t rely on someone being nominated, do it yourself,” stated Leighty.
To qualify for induction in 2016, a person had to have begun his or her involvement with auto racing at Grays Harbor Raceway in 1986 or before. Potential inductees can include drivers, owners, pit crew members, officials, or anyone who has had a special influence on auto racing at GHR.
Nomination forms that are postmarked after the December 31st deadline, or are not chosen for inclusion in 2016, will be placed on the 2017 ballot.
Nomination forms can be downloaded from the official EARHoF website at https://elmaautoracinghalloffame.webs.com, or by emailing [email protected] to have a form mailed.
The Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame is a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to preserving and honoring the history of auto racing at Grays Harbor Raceway.
Jerry Day to Speak
at 2016 Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
November 12, 20015, Elma, WA….Well known car builder and former driver, Jerry Day, of Renton, WA, has agreed to be the keynote speaker at the 2016 EARHoF Induction Ceremony.
The eighth annual induction event will move to a new venue in 2016. Having outgrown the Elma Eagles Hall the site for the last four years, 2016 will find the EARHoF holding their biggest event at the Stay Beyond Inn and Suites in Elma on Saturday, March 26, 2016.
“2016 will be opening a new chapter for us,” stated EARHoF President Rick Leighty. “A new location with a very respected and knowledgeable guest speaker should add to an already anticipated event. I can’t wait for March 26th to get here.”
Day, the proprietor of RAM Race Cars Fabrication & Equipment since 1969, is known throughout the racing industry for fabrication skills, but he was also a very accomplished driver, having raced throughout the West Coast, including the major events in Elma.
Leighty explained the EARHoF’s interest in bringing Day to their event, “Jerry raced the big events on the Elma ½ mile in the ‘60s and ‘70s, and also spent time on the 3/10 mile in the ‘80s. His friendship and collaboration on a sprint car design with Jan Opperman are well documented and his name is well known in the racing world, both on land and on water. We couldn’t think of anyone who would be a better fit for our first keynote speaker, than Jerry.”
It was also announced by Leighty that Phil Martelli would be returning as the master of ceremonies.
“Phil has been an invaluable asset for the Hall of Fame. His preparation work is second to none and he just adds an air of professionalism to anything he is involved in. Unfortunately other commitments prevent him from attending our 2015 Inductions. We’re excited to have Phil back for 2016,” exclaimed Leighty.
Increased attendance each of the past three years forced the EARHoF to search for a new venue.
“We can’t express our gratitude enough for the support the Elma Eagles have given us by allowing us to hold our biggest night of the year in their banquet room,” expressed Leighty. “Unfortunately we outgrew their room and needed to move if we are going to continue to grow this event. The Stay Beyond Inn & Suites has been a great supporter of Grays Harbor Raceway and we think it will be a great place for us to continue our effort to make the EARHoF Inductions a must attend event.”
Joining Day on the agenda of the evenings activities will be a silent auction, a dessert auction, memorabilia display, and the purpose of the event; the induction of newest Hall of Fame members.
Nomination for 2016 EARHoF Inductees is open until December 31, 2015.
Information about the EARHoF and nomination forms can be found at www.elmaautoracinghalloffame.webs.com. Also, check out the Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame group on Facebook.
The EARHoF is a 100% volunteer non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and honoring of the auto racing heritage of Grays Harbor Raceway.
The EARHoF can be contacted at [email protected].
Elma, WA (March 26, 2015)......Please join us in thanking everyone that helped make the 7th EARHoF Induction Ceremony a huge success. As you can see by the following lists it takes a great many people. The next time you cross paths with these people please thank them for supporting the Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame. We appreciate each and every one who helped, but some people help with little fan fair! I apologize if I omitted anyone.
Rick Leighty, EARHoF President
Thank you to following who volunteered their time to make the evening a success:
Bob Valencia; Candice Wixson Reagan; Cindy Badgett; George Wade; Glenn Walker; Jeanne; Leona Walker; Melissa Beck; Phil Martelli; Randy Badgett; Rich Leighty; Stan Dillingham; Vonnie Dillingham; Wendy Leighty
Thank you to the following who donated one or more item to the nights activities:
Al Lytle; Bayview Redi-Mix; Betty Mason; Bob’s Bar and Grill; Bob Valencia; Brian McLees; Candice Wixson Regan; Carla & Gaylon Stewart; Charlotte Turpin; Cindy Badgett; Cocopah Speedway; Coleen Walker; Cut Rate Auto Parts; Donny Spoon; Ed Williams; Five Star Dealerships; Gina Goodman; Glenn Walker; Grays Harbor Raceway; Jamie Kwiatkowski; Jeff Bell; Karen Ellingson; Karen Sherwin; Lee Smith; Leighty Racing; Masco Petroleum; Megan Leighty; Melissa Beck; Old House Antique; Rachel Kittle; Rich Leighty; Rick & Sandy Terry; Rick Leighty; Scatter Creek Winery; Scotty B; Steve Beitler; Tamara Courts; Theresa & Bryan Oleachea; Thomas Nasti; Tommy Williams; Tony Stewart Foundation; Tracey Larnard; Vonnie and Stan Dillingham; Wendy Leighty
Thank you to everyone who donated desserts for the Dessert Auction. I don’t have a list of donors, but you helped create a great, fun and successful event.
Thank you to the Elma Eagles for allowing us the use of their banquet room. Their support through the years have allowed us to make the Induction Ceremony a great event to kick off the new racing season.
Thank you to Shaun Hulbert of Shauninthedirt.com, Brendan Carl of The Daily World, and Aaron Reed of Aaron's Race Video for covering the evenings activities.
Thank you to Judy Mayhew of Fun 4 Design in Ocean Shores for creating the beautiful jackets that were presented to each inductee and working overtime to get them done on time.
Finally, Thank you to everyone who participated in the auctions and raffles, joined the EARHoF, and donated money, helping the EARHoF get off to a great start in 2015.
Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame
Elma, WA (March 21, 2015)……The Class of 2015 officially entered the Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame before an estimated crowd of 250 people during a ceremony in the Elma Eagles Hall.
The eight newest members of the EARHoF were introduced to the standing room only crowd by master of ceremony Bob Valencia. Facts and interesting details were given about each inductee then the inductee addressed the audience with each thanking those that had helped them reach hall of fame status.
EARHoF board members Cindy Badgett and George Wade presented each inductee with EARHoF Induction Jackets and framed certificates after which each individual was interviewed by Shaun Hulbert for the Shaun in the Dirt podcast that can be found at http://shauninthedirt.podomatic.com/entry/2015-03-22T10_55_13-07_00.
Four time sprint car champion, Mike Zvono was the first 2015 inductee. Zvono who is deceased was represented by his daughter Cari Babcock and his son Troy Zvono. Valencia introduced Zvono as one of the best ever seen at Grays Harbor Raceway and talked about Zvono winning at everything he raced from soap box derby to go carts to sprint cars. The Montesano native joins his father Nick Zvono as an EARHoF Inductee. Babcock and Zvono spoke about how much their father loved racing and how proud they were of him.
An emotional John Dickinson was the second to be honored. The former Montesano postal worker became involved in racing in 1968 as part owner and crew member and became one of the top sprint car crew chiefs before stepping away from racing in 2012. Dickinson also had a stint as the Evergreen Auto Racing Association president and led the group thru some of its most successful years. Now a resident of Arizona, Dickinson expressed his appreciation for the award, especially since his lifelong friend Mike Zvono was going in at the same time.
1970 Jalopy Champion, Earl Fritts was introduced by Valencia next. Fritts got his start at Elma when Al Lytle let him try out his car. Deciding it was something he enjoyed, Fritts built his first car with the help of 2014 EARHoF Inductee Herman Burns in 1968. Fritts teamed up with another Hall of Famer, Perry Crowell, in 1970 and raced jalopies, limited modifieds, and super modifieds throughout the Northwest. Fritts thanked everyone for his recognition and told the crowd how his racing career basically came to an end after a bad accident at Evergreen Speedway in Monroe. Living in Arizona, Fritts occasionally attends NASCAR events.
Sedro Wooley’s Charlie Gibbs, Jr. hooked up with Hall of Famer Jim Sutherby and raced to the 1970 Limited Modified Championship. Gibbs, his wife Dorthy and their 2 children traveled to tracks all over the Northwest and loved the racing scene. Besides being a top driver, Gibbs was a very accomplished mechanic and likeable guy. Daughter Cheryl Gibbs-Taylor and son Wes Gibbs represented their father who passed away two years ago. Both expressed how much their father enjoyed racing at Elma and Cheryl stated that possibly her father was most proud of being recognized with a Sportsmanship Award he won.
In the early 70s John VanWyck began racing in the jalopy class. He moved to the hobby stock class and found success winning the 1977 title. Moving to the super stock class, VanWyck continued racing until moving to Nevada to try his had at gold mining. After returning to Grays Harbor he became a tow truck driver and became a fixture at GHR towing cars back to the pits in the Aberdeen Auto Wrecking Truck. VanWyck thanked his brother Jeff Farnam, Bill Combs, and Ken Courts for all the help they gave him.
Ken Courts is one of the few remaining drivers who raced at the original Grays Harbor race track at Clemons Hill in Central Park starting in 1954. Taking a few years off to help his wife raise their 8 kids, Courts returned to the driver’s seat in 1968. Racing on a shoe string while providing for his family, Courts reached his highest point finish, 4th in the 1976 hobby stocks. Known as someone who was willing to help anyone and everyone, Courts expressed how that is his fondest memory of racing, the comradery of all the racers. He continues to attend the races at GHR as fan in the stands.
The Larry Spoon Distinguished Service Award was presented to Earle Sargent for his love of the sport and the never ending support he has given. Sargent drove a jalopy for two years that he and a partner purchased for $50. When racing was stopped at the Grays Harbor Fairgrounds in the early 60s, Sargent stepped away from racing, but he couldn’t stay away and got back into racing as a crew member and traveled all over with the Perry Crowell teams and Al Lytle teams. A season ticket holder at GHR, Sargent seldom misses a race and is a very enthusiastic supporter, stating, “He just loves the sport and feels fortunate to be able to do something he loves doing.”
If there was a title of Mr. Modified at GHR it would quite possibly belong to 1997 super stock title holder, Glenn Vincent. Instrumental in helping Fred Brownfield start the IMCA style modifieds at GHR, Vincent has driven, sponsored, and helped grow the class throughout the Northwest. One of Vincent’s crowning achievements is the Shipwreck Beads Modified Nationals. Along with his wife Lisa, the Vincent’s support and sponsorship have turned the weekend into one of the biggest events in the Northwest. Though he finds it hard to be at the track without driving, Vincent continues to sponsor the modifieds at GHR and also at Skagit Speedway. His fantastic support and effort have earned Glenn Vincent the Fred Brownfield Exemplary Service Award.
The evening ended with Valencia spurring the audience on in a Dessert Auction that raised over one thousand dollars for the volunteer non-profit Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame.
EARHoF President, Rick Leighty, summed the event up in glowing terms. “Congratulations to our 2015 Inductees. This was our 7th Induction Ceremony and I would have to say it may have been our most successful. We had a huge crowd, honored some great men, and raised a fair amount of money for preserving and honor our racing heritage. We are already looking and planning for next year. We have outgrown the Elma Eagles Hall. We want to thank them for their support over the years, but if we want this event to continue to grow and prosper, and we do, we have to move to someplace larger. Thank you to everyone for your support!”
The EARHoF would like to thank Shaun Hulbert of “Shaun in the Dirt” for podcasting the ceremony, Aaron Reed of “Aaron’s Racing Videos” for videoing the evening, and Brendan Carl of “The Daily World Newspaper” for covering the activities.
Next up for the EARHoF will be the 7th Annual EARHoF Spaghetti Feed Fundraiser and EARA Reunion on July 4th in the Borden-Seabert Exhibition Hall at the Grays Harbor Fairgrounds.
Further information on the EARHoF can be found at https://elmaautoracinghalloffame.webs.com.
Elma, WA (March 14, 2015)......Only one week remains before the Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame honors 8 individuals with induction into the EARHoF.
John Dickinson, Mike Zvono, Charlie Gibbs, Jr; Earl Fritts, Ken Courts, John VanWyck, Earle Sargent, and Glenn Vincent will be recognized and honored for achievements and contributions to auto racing at Grays Harbor Raceway.
The 7th Annual EARHoF Induction Ceremony will be held on Saturday, March 21st, in the Elma Eagles Hall Banquet Room. The evenings activities begin with a silent auction and social hour at 6 P.M. The Induction Ceremony is set for 7 P.M.
Other activities during the evening will include a Dessert Auction, 50/50 Raffle, and a Season Kickoff Raffle in which 3 winners will have an opportunity to win Winter Heat tickets and t-shirts donated by Cocopah Speedway, or a barrel of fuel donated by Masco Petroleum, or a gas card.
Memorabilia will be on display throughout the evening and stories always fly about racing past and future. Hors d’ oeuvres, cake, and coffee will be served. The Eagles Hall bar is available to Eagles members and their signed in quests. Inquire as you enter.
The public is welcome. Admission is free to the Induction activities and memorabilia. Silent Auction numbers are a 5 dollar donation.
Proceeds from the auctions, raffles, and donations benefit the non-profit, 100% volunteer Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame in its mission to preserve and honor the heritage of auto racing at the Grays Harbor Fairgrounds.
Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame
Announces Class of 2015
Elma, WA (February 7, 2015)…..Eight men covering 7 different decades of auto racing at Grays Harbor Raceway have been announced as the next group to be enshrined into the Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame.
The class of 2015 will officially enter the EARHoF at the7th Annual Induction Ceremony and Silent Auction on Saturday, March 21, 2015.
The newest group contains track champions, longtime officials, crew members, track workers, and supporters who have made the racing experience special for the fans of Grays Harbor Raceway.
Mike Zvono, a four time sprint car champion from 1985 – 1988, will join his father, Nick, as an EARHoF Inductee. Zvono, who is deceased, will be represented by his family at the official ceremony.
John Dickinson began as crew member and partner on a jalopy in 1968, eventually becoming one of the top crew chiefs in the sprint car ranks. Dickinson also led the Evergreen Auto Racing Association as president during the 1990s. Now residing in Arizona, Dickinson plans to return for the Inductions.
Charlie Gibbs, Jr. brought his semi-modified from his hometown of Sedro Woolley to the Elma ½ mile in the late 1960s and raced to the track championship in 1970. The deceased Gibbs, a top runner at many Northwest tracks in his driving days, will be represented by his family.
Earl Fritts won the 1970 Jalopy Championship, moved on to be a top competitor in the semi-modifieds and eventually raced super-modifieds throughout the Northwest. A former instructor at West Point, Fritts hopes to return from Arizona for the activities.
John VanWyck held many duties at the race track including race driver. The Aberdeen resident claimed the 1977 Hobby Stock Championship during his driving days and then became one of the most valuable track workers for many years as tow truck operator.
Ken Courts days in racing date back to Central Parks Evergreen Speedway in the mid 1950s. Courts competed primarily in jalopies and hobby stocks, but could be found helping anyone who needed help in any class of car.
Earle Sargent purchased his first race car for $50 and began racing at the Elma Fairgrounds in 1957. Sargent later became a crew member on cars owned by Perry Crowell and has remained a racing fanatic to this day missing very few races. Sargent will be inducted at the 2015 Larry Spoon Distinguished Service Award recipient.
Glenn Vincent put his name in the record books as the 1997 Super Stock Champion, but his influence and legacy on racing at Grays Harbor Raceway continues today. Vincent had a big hand in getting the current modified class started and then the Modified Nationals that attract top racers to Elma each year and through his Shipwreck Beads continues to sponsor the class. Fans in the stands are very aware of his many fan friendly activities. Vincent will enter the EARHoF as the 2015 Fred Brownfield Exemplary Contribution Award recipient.
The 7th Annual EARHoF Induction Ceremony and Silent Auction will be held March 21, 2015, in the banquet room of Elma Eagles Hall at 404 W. Young Street, Elma, WA. The silent auction will get underway at 6 P.M. with the Induction Ceremony starting at 7 P.M. The public is invited. Admission is free, but donations are accepted to help the non-profit, volunteer EARHoF continue its mission of preserving and honoring the racing heritage of Grays Harbor Raceway.
.
.