HAZLE TOWNSHIP, Pa. — The Eastern Motorsport Press Association (EMPA) has released the ballot to its membership for voting in the 2025 inductees to the prestigious EMPA Hall of Fame along with other special awards that will be presented during the organization’s 52nd annual convention, set for Jan. 10-12.
The EMPA Board of Directors thoroughly reviewed the names submitted for consideration, including 61 for the hall of fame and then narrowed them down into the respective categories.
There will be eight highly-regarded individuals from which the membership will vote four into the hall of fame.
The Finalists
Respected motorsports journalist Mark “Bones” Bouncier, World of Outlaws Sprint Car legend Rick Ferkel, renowned champion car owner Chip Ganassi, dirt Modified standout Jimmy Horton, Pocono Raceway CEO Nick Igdalsky, northeast dirt racing icon Alan Johnson and a pair of Sprint Car greats Sammy Swindell and Steve Smith Jr., have made this year’s HoF ballot.
NHRA perennial champion Don Prudhomme and NASCAR Cup Series and pavement Modified star Steve Park will also be going into the hall of fame as automatic lock-ins.
Other Awards
The organization will also honor National and Northeast Drivers of the Year in both asphalt and dirt. Young drivers are recognized with the John Blewett III Young Gun Award presented by New England Race Fuels. Other honors presented are the Newsmaker of the Year, Promotional Effort of the Year and Spirit of the Sport awards.
EMPA also presents two members – one each – as Writer of the Year and Photographer of the Year, along with awards in the writer and photography contests.
World Racing Group has named Scott Gobrecht of BAPS Speedway the recipient of the Jerry Reigle Dedication to Sprint Car Racing Award winner.
The annual three-day convention begins with a Friday evening Salute to the Champions and membership welcoming. A select group of local and regional driving titlists will be on hand to network with the press. Saturday consists of press conferences, workshops and award presentations. The formal Hall of Fame dinner and awards ceremony takes place later that evening.
Noted motorsports television and radio announcer, Paul Page, will be the keynote speaker on Saturday prior to the Dover (Del.) Motor Speedway luncheon.