PGRL S5 R5 Recap
27 June 2023
Pretty Good Racing League | Season 5 | Round 5
Premier Series | Nashville Superspeedway
In a captivating display of skill and strategy, Jeff Ward of Loud Pedal Motorsports claimed his first victory of the season in the highly anticipated Mane ‘n Tail 200, the premier event of the Pretty Good Racing League. The race unfolded at the prestigious Nashville Superspeedway, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown among some of the league’s finest drivers.
Dee Damboise, representing Damboise Developments, secured the pole position for the evening, with Ward positioned alongside her in second place. As the green flag dropped, it was Ward who swiftly seized control of the race, making a bold move and taking the lead coming out of turn 2 on the very first lap.
The early stages of the race witnessed intense battles and strategic maneuvers among the drivers. Colton Salek of Norse Force Racing emerged as a formidable contender, keeping a close eye on Ward’s every move. However, despite his valiant efforts, Salek struggled to match the blistering pace set by the leader.
Meanwhile, Michael Chrobok, Ward’s teammate from Loud Pedal Motorsports, showcased impressive long-run speed, steadily closing the gap on Salek during a sustained green flag run. Sensing an opportunity to gain an advantage, Chrobok made a calculated decision and pitted under green flag conditions on lap 62, aiming to execute an undercut strategy on Salek and Ward.
Observing Chrobok’s move, both Ward and Salek decided to follow suit, entering pit road on laps 63 and 64 respectively. As the pit cycle concluded on lap 76, Ward reclaimed the lead, with Chrobok slotting into second place and Salek settling back into third.
The race progressed with a continued green flag run, and on lap 105, Salek opted to make his final pit stop in a bid to undercut both Ward and Chrobok, replicating the strategy Chrobok had employed earlier. Chrobok, on the other hand, made his final pit stop on lap 106, while Ward followed suit on lap 107.
During this pivotal pit cycle, Chrobok managed to take the lead, but Ward fought back fiercely, engaging in a thrilling side-by-side battle with Chrobok for several laps. Ultimately, Ward’s determination and skill prevailed as he regained the lead on lap 124, leaving Salek to bridge the gap to the frontrunners.
Despite Salek’s valiant efforts to close in on the leaders, he struggled to match their pace, and Ward and Chrobok eventually settled into a single-file formation, consolidating their positions at the front of the pack.
As the checkered flag loomed, it was Ward who emerged triumphant, crossing the finish line in first place, celebrating his well-deserved victory. Salek, although unable to challenge the leaders in the closing stages, managed to retain his points lead, albeit with Ward closing in, now trailing by a mere 11 points.
With the excitement of the Nashville Superspeedway in the rearview mirror, fans eagerly await the next round of the Pretty Good Racing League, scheduled to take place at Chicagoland Speedway on July 4th. This highly anticipated event promises another adrenaline-fueled spectacle, and fans can catch all the captivating action live at 8:55 PM ET, exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network.
BRL LM S23 R1 Recap
24 June 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 23 | Round 1
Late Model Series | New Smyrna Speedway
In a thrilling start to Season 23 of the Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitational Series presented by Gargamel’s Kitchen, J R Shepherd of Different Path Motorsports emerged victorious in the opening round at New Smyrna Speedway. The race was filled with intense battles, impressive overtakes, and strategic maneuvers.
Todd Liston of Indy Autosport started the race from the pole position, while Shepherd began his campaign from the 7th spot on the grid. Liston led the field for the first 44 laps, displaying strong pace and control at the front. Meanwhile, Shepherd showcased his skill by making steady progress through the pack, gradually closing the gap to Liston.
On lap 45, Shepherd made his move, overtaking Liston to claim the lead. Michael Goodman seized the opportunity and followed Shepherd through, securing the second position. Aiden Young of Gambler Motorsports, starting from 11th, quietly made his way up the field, eventually breaking into the top five. In the second half of the race, Young continued his impressive charge, climbing to third place.
Despite Young’s efforts, he was unable to surpass Goodman before the race’s conclusion. Shepherd, meanwhile, maintained his composure and held onto the lead, crossing the finish line ahead of Goodman to secure the checkered flag.
Round 2 of the Late Model Invitational Series is scheduled to take place at Myrtle Beach Speedway on July 8th. Racing enthusiasts can look forward to another exhilarating event, with all the thrilling action unfolding live at 8:55 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network. Stay tuned as the competitors battle it out for supremacy on the track.
BRL SLM S22 R1 Recap
23 June 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 22 | Round 1
Super Late Model Series | New Smyrna Speedway
In an electrifying start to the Bootleg Racing League Super Late Model Series Season 22, J R Shepherd of Different Path Motorsports claimed victory in the opening event at New Smyrna Speedway, presented by Whiteriver LLC. The race was filled with intense battles, strategic pit stops, and captivating moments.
John Wilson, representing Team CDR, led the field to the green flag from the pole position, while Shepherd and James Tiernan faced the challenging task of starting further back in 12th and 16th place, respectively. Wilson held onto the lead for the first few laps until Stephen Spies, racing for Gambler Motorsports, made a strong move to take control of the field.
Spies quickly built a significant lead, distancing himself from the pack with over a four-second gap to Matt Shinoski by the 50-lap mark. Meanwhile, Shepherd was on a determined charge, aggressively working his way through the field while fending off pressure from Tiernan, who was also making his way forward.
On lap 83, Shepherd and Tiernan found themselves running in close quarters for 3rd and 4th positions. Tiernan seized an opportunity, diving low to overtake Shepherd. Despite Shepherd’s attempts to retaliate with a crossover move, Tiernan managed to pull away and secure 3rd place.
However, a turning point came on lap 91 when a caution flag was triggered by Lowell Jewell, who lost control coming out of turn 4 and slid across the infield down the front stretch. This caution allowed the field to make pit stops for fuel and fresh tires. Kurt Smith emerged as the leader after the pit stops, with Shepherd in 2nd and Tiernan in 4th.
Racing resumed on lap 97, and Shepherd wasted no time making his move. Going into lap 103, he snatched the lead away from Smith, while Tiernan faced a challenging situation trying to navigate through traffic and make up ground. Unfortunately, Tiernan’s aggressive attempt to split between Stephen Spies and Smith resulted in contact, triggering another caution. Aiden Young and Jeffery Hardin were unfortunate victims of the incident, as they made contact with the inside wall while trying to avoid the incident.
With the green flag waving once again on lap 109, Shepherd found himself back in the lead, with Tiernan in 5th place. Undeterred, Tiernan quickly mounted a charge, working his way up to 2nd on lap 119. The battle for the lead intensified as Tiernan relentlessly pressured Shepherd, attempting several unsuccessful overtaking maneuvers. Shepherd showcased his defensive skills, successfully fending off Tiernan’s advances and ultimately securing the well-deserved victory.
Round 2 of the Super Late Model Series is scheduled to take place at Myrtle Beach Speedway on July 7th. Fans can look forward to witnessing more thrilling action and intense battles as the competitors strive to outdo each other on the track. The race will be broadcast live at 8:10 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network, providing fans with front-row seats to all the excitement.
BRL LM S22 R11 Recap
17 June 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 22 | Round 11
Late Model Series | Five Flags Speedway
Photography by: Michael Goodman
Aiden Young, representing Gambler Motorsports, showcased his exceptional racing skills as he crossed the finish line to claim the checkered flag in the Season 22 finale at Five Flags Speedway. The Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitational Series, presented by Gargamel’s Kitchen, not only provided exhilarating racing action but also served as a meaningful charity event in support of Mission 22. The race brought together a formidable field of 28 drivers, all united in their efforts to raise funds and awareness for this important cause, as organized by Jeffery Hardin.
The event kicked off with Kevin Nunn of Razor Racing leading the pack from the pole position, while Aiden Young embarked on his journey from a seemingly disadvantageous 20th starting position. Undeterred by the odds, Young wasted no time making his presence felt on the track, executing a calculated charge through the field. Within a mere 30 laps, he had already advanced an impressive ten positions, finding himself in 10th place, silently but determinedly climbing his way towards the front.
Meanwhile, Matt Shinoski emerged as an early frontrunner, skillfully maneuvering past Nunn and Mike Allen to seize control of the race at its outset. As the contest progressed into its second half, Shinoski faced mounting pressure from the trio of Michael Goodman, Donny Moore, and Adam Schoen, all vying for the coveted second-place position, poised to challenge the leader’s dominance.
However, it was Aiden Young who truly stole the show with his remarkable display of talent and strategy. Patiently and methodically, he continued his relentless pursuit of success, navigating his way through the pack with precision and determination. Lap after lap, Young meticulously carved his path towards the front, eventually finding himself in the enviable position of 2nd place by the 81st lap.
Exhibiting the tenacity of a seasoned competitor, Young wasted no time capitalizing on his hard-earned position. With a decisive move, he dove low under Shinoski, executing a breathtaking pass and wresting the lead away from the former frontrunner with a mere 15 laps remaining. From that point onward, Aiden Young was unstoppable, rapidly extending his advantage over the chasing pack as he set his sights on victory.
In a remarkable display of skill and composure, Young expertly maneuvered his car around the track, expertly managing the remaining laps to secure his well-deserved win. As he crossed the finish line, the cheers of triumph and the satisfaction of knowing that his efforts contributed to the charitable cause of Mission 22 filled the air.
While Jeffery Hardin, representing Loose Luggs, may have finished the night in a modest 9th place, his consistently strong performances throughout Season 22 earned him the ultimate reward – the championship title. With his unwavering determination and commendable sportsmanship, Hardin stood as a shining example of the values that the Bootleg Racing League embodies.
As the checkered flag fell on Season 22, anticipation for the upcoming Season 23 opener at New Smyrna Speedway on June 24th began to build. Racing enthusiasts eagerly awaited another thrilling chapter in the league’s history, knowing that they would once again witness exhilarating battles, breathtaking overtakes, and awe-inspiring displays of skill. The Virtual Grip Network would be the exclusive home for fans, ensuring they could savor every moment of the electrifying action as it unfolded, beginning at 8:55 PM ET.
BRL SLM S21 R11 Recap
16 June 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 21 | Round 11
Super Late Model Series | Five Flags Speedway
Mark Hertzog of Hertzog Motorsports celebrated victory in the season 21 finale at Five Flags Speedway in the Bootleg Racing League Super Late Model Series, presented by Skitter Creek Motorsports Group. Kurt Smith started the race from the pole position, while Hertzog began in 10th place.
Smith showcased his strength in the first half of the race, leading for the first 110 laps before making a green flag pit stop for fuel. During the pit cycles, Austin Boelke assumed the race lead, benefiting from a timely caution that trapped half of the field one lap down. Boelke held onto the lead until lap 168, when Ryan Salvatore made a move to the inside, pushing Boelke back to 3rd behind Mark Hertzog.
Hertzog engaged in a thrilling battle with Salvatore, running side by side for several laps before finally clearing ahead on lap 184 to take the lead. Hertzog maintained his position for the remaining 17 laps, securing the victory.
J R Shepherd, representing Different Path Motorsports, finished the race in 16th place. However, Shepherd’s consistent performance throughout the season allowed him to retain the points lead and be crowned the Season 21 champion.
The upcoming season will commence at New Smyrna Speedway on June 23rd. Racing enthusiasts can catch all the action live at 8:50 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network!
BRL Mission 22 Charity Race
The Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitation Series is known for its thrilling races and passionate community of racers. As the season 22 finale approaches, anticipation is building not just for the competition on the track, but also for the charitable cause it aims to support. Presented by Gargamel’s Kitchen and streamed on the Virtual Grip Network, this race seeks to raise donations and awareness for Mission 22, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health challenges.
Taking place at the iconic Five Flags Speedway, a virtual racing venue that mirrors the real-life racetrack in Pensacola, Florida, the event promises an exciting evening of fierce competition and heartfelt generosity. Racers from around the world will come together on June 17th, at 8:55 PM Eastern Time, to demonstrate their driving skills and rally behind a cause that affects the lives of many brave men and women who have served their countries.
Mission 22 has been at the forefront of the fight against veteran suicide by offering comprehensive programs and services that address the complex issues surrounding mental health. Through initiatives such as counseling, treatment programs, and community outreach, the organization strives to improve the lives of veterans and their families.
With the Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitation Series season finale being streamed on the Virtual Grip Network, fans and supporters will have the opportunity to tune in from the comfort of their homes and witness the exhilarating race unfold. By showcasing the race online, the event aims to attract a global audience, spreading the message of Mission 22 to a wider community while encouraging viewers to contribute to the cause.
Throughout the race, viewers will have the opportunity to donate directly to Mission 22, ensuring that every contribution goes directly towards supporting veterans struggling with mental health challenges. By leveraging the immense reach and accessibility of the Virtual Grip Network, the organizers hope to surpass previous fundraising efforts and make a substantial impact in the lives of those affected by PTSD.
The Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitation Series has always exemplified the spirit of competition and camaraderie, and this charity race demonstrates the community’s commitment to giving back. As the season 22 finale draws near, mark your calendars for June 17th, 8:55 PM Eastern Time, and join the Virtual Grip Network to witness this thrilling race and contribute to the vital cause of Mission 22.
Together, let’s rev up our engines, spread awareness, and support our veterans who have selflessly served our nations. You can make a difference and help bring hope and healing to those who need it the most. Head over to https://give.mission22.com/campaign/bootleg-racing-league-charity-event/c495690 to give what you can to help the Bootleg Racing League reach their goal of $5,000 by the end of the race.
PGRL S5 R4 Recap
14 June 2023
Pretty Good Racing League | Season 5 | Round 4
Premier Series | Sonoma Raceway
Scott Eckrich, representing Loud Pedal Motorsports, emerged victorious at Sonoma Raceway in the PIXELCAR PRIDE Road Race Showcase, part of the Pretty Good Racing League Premier Series. Jeff Ward started the race from the pole position, with Mike Rasimas in 2nd and Colton Salek in 3rd. Eckrich began the night in 14th place.
Ward initially held the lead, but on lap 12, a miscalculation in a corner allowed Salek to seize the top spot. Eckrich steadily made progress, maintaining a consistent pace and advancing to 4th place during the first half of the race. Unfortunately, Thomas George, who had a quiet run in 8th place, retired from the race without incident on lap 19.
Strategic pit stops came into play as Ward attempted to undercut Salek by pitting for fuel on lap 29. Eckrich followed suit on lap 30, with Salek making his pit stop on lap 31. Salek rejoined the track just over 1 second ahead of Ward, maintaining his lead, while Eckrich moved up to 3rd place.
With 20 laps remaining, Eckrich began pushing his #70 Winternode machine, consistently lapping almost 1 second faster than the leaders. He quickly closed the gap on Ward and Salek. Ward’s race took a turn for the worse on lap 40 when he missed a braking point and made significant contact with the wall, damaging his left front.
Eckrich continued to apply pressure to Salek, ultimately capitalizing on a mistake Salek made in the hairpin on lap 49. Eckrich cleared Salek and showcased his dominant pace, pulling away from Salek over the final 6 laps to secure the checkered flag.
Salek maintains his lead in the point standings, holding a 12-point advantage over Michael Chrobok, who surpassed Cody Dempster by a single point.
The next event, the Boss Hoss Cycles 200, is scheduled to take place at Nashville Superspeedway on June 27th. Racing enthusiasts can catch all the excitement live at 8:50 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network!
BRL LM S22 R10 Recap
10 June 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 22 | Round 10
Late Model Series | South Boston Speedway
Joseph Snyder, representing Rougarou Racing, celebrated his first checkered flag victory at South Boston Speedway in the Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitational Series, presented by Gargamel’s Kitchen. Steve Hilbert started the race on the pole position, with Snyder alongside him in 2nd.
Hilbert initially maintained the lead, but on lap 21, Snyder found an opportunity on the inside line and successfully cleared Hilbert to take the lead. From there, Snyder led the remaining 79 laps of the race, steadily extending his advantage over the rest of the 18-car field to over 6 seconds. Impressively, the entire 100-lap race went green, showcasing the skill and consistency of the drivers in the league.
After securing the win, Snyder expressed his surprise, stating, “I didn’t see anybody behind me, I was just driving easy, you know, trying not to use it up in case [a caution came out], so the car felt great.” He also added, “I thought everyone disconnected, that was the craziest race.”
Jeffery Hardin had a quiet race but finished in 3rd place, further solidifying his lead in the points standings. Hardin now holds a 26-point advantage over Snyder, who moved up to 2nd place with his victory, surpassing Joe Segalla.
The season finale is scheduled to take place at Five Flags Speedway on June 18th, and fans can catch all the thrilling action live at 8:50 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network!
BRL SLM S21 R10 Recap
09 June 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 21 | Round 10
Super Late Model Series | South Boston Speedway
J.R. Shepherd, representing Different Path Motorsports, emerged victorious at South Boston Speedway in the Bootleg Racing League Super Late Model Series, presented by the Skitter Creek Motorsports Group. The race began with Lowell Jewell starting on the pole position, while Shepherd took off from 12th place, alongside his season rival James Tiernan.
Jewell maintained the lead for the first 61 laps, with Mark Hertzog and Tiernan battling for 3rd place. Unfortunately, contact between Hertzog and Tiernan resulted in Hertzog hitting the outside wall along the front stretch, leading to a caution. All drivers, except for John Wilson and Chris Davis, opted to pit for fuel during the caution period. This decision gave Wilson the lead, while Jewell held onto 3rd place when racing resumed on lap 68, ahead of Ryan Nardone.
Shortly after the restart, another quick caution occurred. Davis and Wilson chose to pit, allowing Jewell to regain the lead for the green flag on lap 76. Throughout the race’s first half, Shepherd and Tiernan worked their way through the field, running side by side and eventually breaking into the top 10.
On lap 89, Shepherd advanced to 2nd place and executed an aggressive move on the outside to overtake Nardone for the lead. For the first time in the race, there was a car between Shepherd and Tiernan, as Nardone settled into 2nd place ahead of Tiernan. However, Tiernan managed to surpass Nardone on lap 158.
Shepherd held off Tiernan’s challenges for the remainder of the race, securing the win. With this victory, Shepherd extended his lead in the point standings, now 36 points ahead of Jeffery Hardin, who finished 4th in the race.
The season finale is set to take place at Five Flags Speedway on June 17th, and fans can catch all the action live at 8:50 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network!
PGRL S5 R3 Recap
06 June 2023
Pretty Good Racing League | Season 5 | Round 3
Premier Series | World Wide Technology Raceway
Cody Dempster, representing Apex Simsport, emerged victorious at World Wide Technology Raceway in the Julesburg Farms 150, part of the Pretty Good Racing League. Brandon Beyke from Team Watson Racing started the race on the pole position, while Dempster began in 2nd place.
Dempster quickly capitalized on the green flag to take the lead, benefiting from Beyke’s rough start. However, Beyke swiftly recovered and remained in 2nd position. Jeff Ward and Colton Salek showcased impressive speed, rapidly advancing through the field towards the front of the pack early in the race.
However, an unexpected turn of events occurred on lap 40 when Ward’s engine failed, resulting in a caution that prematurely ended his race. Following a rapid pit stop under the caution, Eckrich found himself in 3rd place for the restart on lap 45.
Dempster continued to lead the field with Beyke in 2nd as racing resumed. On lap 90, both Eckrich and Salek received speeding penalties while entering pit road under green flag conditions, causing them to fall two laps down before rejoining the track. Notably, they were running in 2nd and 3rd positions at the time of their pit stops.
Dempster maintained his lead unchallenged for the remainder of the race, securing the victory. Salek, despite the penalty, retained his position atop the point standings, holding a narrow 1-point lead over Dempster.
The next event on the schedule is the PIXELCAR PRIDE Road Race Showcase at Sonoma Raceway, set to take place on June 13th. Fans can catch all the thrilling action live at 8:50 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network!
Virtual Grip Network 