ASHEBORO, N.C. — The stage is set for one of the most anticipated weekends in short-track racing as the 23rd annual John Blewett III Memorial North-South Shootout presented in Memory of Charles Kepley returns to Caraway Speedway on November 7–8.
This celebrated event brings together open-wheel talent from both sides of the Mason-Dixon Line for two days of grassroots excitement—honoring the enduring spirit of two men who helped solidify its place as a cornerstone of the fall racing season.
“The North-South Shootout has earned its place as one of the premier events in short track racing,” said Darren Hackett, promoter of Caraway Speedway. “Each year, we’re proud to see such an incredible mix of talent and tradition come together.”
This year’s event will feature a full weekend of racing across seven divisions: Tour-Type Modifieds (125 laps), ISMA/MSS Supermodifieds (60 laps), 602 Modifieds (68 laps), Vintage Fall Classic, Chargers (40 laps), Crown Vics (40 laps) and Legends (30 laps).
A strong field of Tour-Type Modifieds will headline Saturday’s 125-lap main event. Three former winners — Matt Hirschman, Burt Myers, and Andy Seuss — return in pursuit of another North-South title.
They’ll be joined by a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, including the event’s “iron man” Jason Myers and the Baldwin brothers — Luke, the 2025 SMART Modified Tour Champion, and Jack.
Young guns Carson Loftin, Paulie Hartwig III, James Blewett and Bryce Bailey will aim to add their names to the event’s storied history. Notable newcomers Jeffrey Battle, Max Handley, and Sean Verwys are also expected to make their North-South debut.
The ISMA/MSS Supermodifieds return to Caraway for 60 laps of pure open-wheel adrenaline. Defending race winner Jonathan McKennedy will lead a powerful field of 22 “winged warriors,” including Kyle Edwards, Russ Wood Sr., Mike Ordway Jr., Johnny Benson Jr., Mark Sammut, Mike Lichty, DJ Shullick, Matt Swanson, Tyler Thompson,and Anthony Nocella.
In the 602 Modified division, drivers will compete for $5,000 to win in memory of Robbie Brewer, with standout entrants such as Brooklyn Newman and her grandfather Greg, James Civali, Paulie Hartwig III, Slate Myers, and Cody Norman, the 2025 Carolina Crate Modified Champion.
The Crown Vics could also be chasing a $5,000 winner’s purse, adding to the excitement across the weekend.
