The Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA fueled by VP Racing Fuels returned to Wall Stadium Speedway for the ATQMRA John Blewett III Memorial, bringing a small but competitive field to the track for 25 laps of close short-track racing.
The evening began with heat race action, where Joey Payne of Brick, NJ, took the victory in the Phil and Laurie DiMario-owned #23 Badger. Geoffrey Sutton of East Stroudsburg, PA, then drew the pole for the 25-lap feature, with championship leader Kyle Taraska starting alongside him on the front row.
When the green flag dropped, the championship contenders immediately went to work. Sutton and Taraska battled hard through the opening corner, with Taraska eventually gaining the advantage and taking control of the race.
From there, the field settled into a fast-paced battle around the tight Wall Stadium oval. While Taraska led the feature from start to finish, the racing behind him remained competitive throughout the 25 laps, with drivers fighting for every position in the seven-car field.
Sutton held on for second, while Joey Payne delivered one of the biggest drives of the night. Starting fifth, Payne gained two positions to finish third and complete the podium. His result capped a strong night for the Payne family, with Anthony Payne also bringing home a top five finish.
Blake Barney, who entered the night riding a two-race winning streak dating back to June, finished fourth, while Anthony Payne completed the top five. Jim Tomanio and Kerry Irwin, making his first ATQMRA start of the season, rounded out the field.
The 25-lap feature was completed in just under six minutes, keeping the focus on the tight competition that has become a hallmark of ATQMRA competition at Wall Stadium.
The event also carried special significance as the series honored the memory and legacy of John Blewett III. Few names have had a greater impact on New Jersey short-track racing. A fierce competitor, talented driver, and respected member of the racing community, Blewett left behind a legacy that continues to inspire drivers and fans throughout the Northeast.
The ATQMRA extends its appreciation to Jimmy Blewett and the entire Blewett family for their continued support and for allowing the series to honor John through this special event.
Kyle Taraska’s victory allowed him to extend his Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA by only 16 points.
The Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA fueled by VP Racing Fuels returns to Wall Stadium Speedway on Saturday, September 5th.