ELMA, N.Y. — The Race of Champions Modified Series and Monaco Modified Tri Track Series continue to build and strengthen their alliance in modified racing, despite geographic challenges.
The two series’ have begun working together in respect to elements of planning, such as scheduling and rules, but it is only the tip of the iceberg in regard to the passion these two entities have toward modified racing.
The ultimate goal is to continue maintaining, strengthening and growing the sport.
“I enjoy the racing and support what goes on to the west of us with the Race of Champions Modified Series,” stated Ed Bennett, one of the ownership partners and manager of competition with the Monaco Modified Tri Track Series. “When I was a car owner, we supported the racing in that region of the country with our drivers. It is good racing and this is important for both series. We need to come together rather than drift apart for the benefit of the sport and to keep things going.”
While each series operates differently, and in distinct geographic regions, each series management group is dedicated to the preservation and strength of the sport.
“It is different in Western New York than it is New England,” continued Bennett. “It is challenging all over. We just have to work through it.”
New England has provided the “hot bed” for modified racing over the last two decades, as New York and Pennsylvania have seen several changes.
“It has been challenging in many aspects,” offered Joe Skotnicki, Race of Champions owner. “There have been many changing elements and not very many constants in our region and we have looked to form that stability. Our relationship with the Tri Track Series has been very beneficial. We are able to work together in regard to the schedule, which is paramount and continue bringing the rules closer together.”
Skotnicki continued, “We haven’t seen a great deal of cross over because of the distance between to the two regions and I do not expect a huge wave of that, but the opportunities exist for competitors and it’s something we will encourage and I am sure Tri Track will do the same in our regard without scheduling conflicts along with the fact that continue to look toward common ground to stand on for asphalt modified racing.”
Along with working together, the Race of Champions will be making the first six Monaco Modified Tri Track Series events, which are qualifiers for the 72nd Lucas Oil Race of Champions 250. The winner will receive a guaranteed starting position.
The only other guaranteed starting position for the 72nd Lucas Oil Race of Champions will be awarded to the winner of the 50th annual Spring Sizzler at the Stafford Motor Speedway. The winner of the Tri Track Open Modified Series “Haunted Hundred” will receive a starting position in the 73rd annual Lucas Oil Race of Champions 250.