Staff Report | Thursday, August 6th, 2020
WALL TOWNSHIP, NJ- When the Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels came together with the staff at Wall Stadium Speedway to create the JJ Lane Memorial, Tommy Lane knew this was a race he had to be apart of.
While it has been quite some time since the 2000 ATQMRA Rookie of the Year raced competitively, Lane expects to be able to hold his own this Saturday at Wall Stadium Speedway.
Lane’s racing career began with karting at multiple venues such as Oakland Valley and Great Meadows in the late 1980’s. Lane would eventually become a fixture at the Sunday Series at Flemington Speedway, where his father Ace and track owner Paul Kuhl collaborated on designing a kart-track at the facility in the mid-1990’s. After winning 5 championships across multiple classes over a 4 year period, Lane knew it was time to progress his career.
Lane would soon race for Carl Storero and his #01 TQ Midget for the 2000 and 2001 seasons, highlighted with Rookie of the Year honors and a career high 8th place points finishing position in 2000.
After a brief stint in TQ’s, Lane moved south, entering NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity Program . While enrolled in the program, Lane would work directly with Hermie Sadler on his NASCAR Cup Series pit crew, and raced late models for Ray Evernham at Hickory Motor Speedway. Unfortunately, the team shut down their late model program at the conclusion of 2005 season. Lane’s career as a driver came to a standstill.
While Tommy pursued his career behind the wheel, his brother JJ pursued a career behind the camera.
“Our dad always told me I had a knack for driving and JJ had the eye for photography,” said Tommy. “Racing has always been in our family’s blood, and we each found our own way to make an impact in the community.”
Tommy is excited to continue to make his impact, and continue the Lane Legacy in motorsports, thanks to some help his longtime friend.
When the JJ Lane Memorial was announced weeks ago, Joey Payne III couldn’t think of a better to honor JJ than by allowing his brother to race his car in the race in the event. The admirable act surely wasn’t an easy decision for Payne III. However, after making the announcement last week on Facebook that he will be putting his owner’s cap on and his driver’s helmet off for this one time, the positive feedback Payne and Lane have received has been overwhelming.
“When my brother passed away this spring, we were limited to only allowing 10 people to attend. I asked JP3 to attend because not only do I consider him a brother, I chose him to represent the racing community at the services.”
Not often are we reminded that racing is not only about trophies and driving fast, but it is also about the relationships we build in the pits every Saturday night. This Payne and Lane duo has surely brought this concept to light, which will be welcoming in the Wall Stadium Speedway pit area this weekend.
Lane acknowledges he will have some rust to kick off his shoulders during Saturday afternoon practice, but remains humbled to have the opportunity to honor his brother in a very special way.
“Saturday will be all about making laps. The ATQMRA has always meant a lot to me going all the way back to the Pine Brook days. These guys are some of the best in their business and I won’t be looking to get in their way. The goal is to run all the laps and honor my brother- this will be very special for myself and my family.”
Check out Tommy Lane in Joey Payne III’s #67 Badger and the rest of the ATQMRA on Saturday, August 8th 2020 at Wall Stadium Speedway for the JJ Lane Memorial.
In an effort to follow CDC Social Distancing Guidelines, approximately 1000 personnel split between the pit and spectator areas will be permitted on the property during the evening of racing at Wall Stadium Speedway. Masks and facial coverings must be worn as they are mandatory at Wall Stadium Speedway. Tickets will be sold the day of the event, with the box office opening at 4:30 PM. For more information, please visit wallspeedwayracing.com.
For all the latest news and updates revolving around the Premier TQ Midget Racing Division, please visit atqmra.com or our various social media sites including Facebook and Instagram.
Staff Report | Wednesday, August 5th, 2020
When the Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels returns to Wall Stadium Speedway this weekend, a strong field is expected to be in attendance to honor JJ Lane.
2000 ATQMRA Rookie of the Year Tommy Lane, will pilot the #67 Badger owned by Joey Payne III, will lead the charge in drivers to debut this year in the race that will honor his brother.
Bill Force Jr. will be making his return to the ATQMRA to the club after an absence in his #6 machine.
Mike Glaser will be sporting a new number, #27, on his Aqua Solutions TQ Midget after acquiring it from Richie Davidowitz. Davidowitz last raced the TQ to a 2nd place finish at Turkey Derby this last November.
Bobby Watkins and home-track driver Cole Mullen are also expected to be in attendance as well.
Paul Dodorico and Avery Stoehr are also expected to make their first starts of the year after traveling long distances from their respective hometowns.
Overall, a strong and competitive field is expected to be on hand at Wall Stadium Speedway this weekend.
Jeff Kot will lead the charge of all entrants carrying the momentum of his big win at Mahoning Valley Speedway just over one week ago.
The ATQMRA will honor long-time Wall Stadium and Motorsports Photographer JJ Lane with the running of the JJ Lane Memorial on Saturday, August 8th, 2020.
In an effort to follow CDC Social Distancing Guidelines, approximately 1000 personnel split between the pit and spectator areas will be permitted on the property during the evening of racing at Wall Stadium Speedway. Masks and facial coverings must be worn as they are mandatory at Wall Stadium Speedway. Tickets will be sold the day of the event, with the box office opening at 4:30 PM. For more information, please visit wallspeedwayracing.com.
Staff Report | Wednesday, July, 29th, 2020
WALL TOWNSHIP, NJ- Former Wall Stadium and Northeastern Motorsports Photographer “JJ Lane” will be honored in the ATQMRA “JJ Lane Memorial” on Saturday, August 8th, 2020 at Wall Stadium Speedway.
John Gregory Lane, nicknamed “John John” or “JJ,” unexpectedly lost his life this past spring.
Famously known for his fist pumps, warm greetings, and award winning shots from behind the camera, JJ was well-respected amongst his peers. Not only was Lane a fixture of the Wall Stadium Speedway community, but a fixture in the racing community as a whole. Lane’s legacy leaves a void that will be impossible to fill for the decades to come.
While the ATQMRA will honor “JJ” with commemorative decals and a missing-man formation during the pace laps, no honor will be more special than having “JJ’s” brother, Tommy Lane, entered in the race.
Tommy, the 2000 ATQMRA Rookie of the Year, has a vast range of racing experience from Karting, to Late Models, and of course TQ Midgets. Lane will pilot the #67 Red White and Blue Badger owned by Joey Payne III.
In this unique opportunity, Payne III has elected to take a step out of the driver’s seat and put his owner’s hat on in an effort to honor the Lane Family.
“I greatly appreciate my buddy Joey and everyone at the ATQMRA to come together and honor my brother,” said Tommy Lane. “This means a lot to my entire family and I can’t wait to see what I can do behind the wheel in my return to TQ Midgets.”
Not only is Tommy excited to honor his brother, he is excited to honor his idol Joey Payne as well.
“The Payne‘s and the Lane’s have always been one big family. Growing up watching that #67 car win at Pine Brook Speedway was a huge part of my childhood. To be able to run the #67 in a race titled in my brother’s name really brings things full circle.”
The Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels returns to action on Saturday, August 8th, 2020 at Wall Stadium Speedway. This is the first of three events scheduled at Wall Stadium Speedway including the coveted season ending Turkey Derby XLVI in November.
In an effort to follow CDC Social Distancing Guidelines, approximately 1000 personnel split between the pit and spectator areas will be permitted on the property during the evening of racing at Wall Stadium Speedway. Masks and facial coverings must be worn as they are mandatory at Wall Stadium Speedway. Tickets will be sold the day of the event, with the box office opening at 4:30 PM. For more information, please visit wallspeedwayracing.com.
For all the latest news and updates revolving around the Premier TQ Midget Racing Division, please visit atqmra.com or our various social media sites including Facebook and Instagram.
Staff Report | Tuesday, July 21st, 2020
LEHIGHTON, PA- The Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels will honor Three-Time Champion, “Black Jack” Bertling, in The Jack Bertling Memorial Race this Saturday, July 25th at the Mahoning Valley Speedway.
After experiencing a rainout in June, the ATQMRA and Mahoning Valley Speedway will give it a second attempt this upcoming weekend. However, the stakes have been raised as the organization and speedway will pay honor to Jack Bertling, a staple of the ATQMRA community.
Bertling, who passed this this off-season, will be remembered as kind-hearted person off the track, but a fierce competitor on the track.
While making a name for himself at Pine Brook Speedway, Bertling has a diverse resume in TQ Midget Racing. His resume includes the mentioned ATQMRA championships in 1973, 1976, 1977, an Atlantic City Indoor win in 1969, and many additional ATQMRA feature victories throughout his career as well.
The ATQMRA will be very fortunate to have Tiffany Hoffman, daughter of Jack Bertling, on hand to wave the green flag for the Jack Bertling Memorial 25-lap feature this weekend. Furthermore, Ms. Hoffman will present the hardware to the winner during the post-race celebration.
We encourage anyone and everyone who is involved in the TQ Midget Racing community to come together at Mahoning Valley Speedway this weekend to honor the legacy of our champion, friend, and colleague.
After a long-awaited delay due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and inclement weather, The Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels will kick off a new season of racing this Saturday, July 25th, 2020 at the Mahoning Valley Speedway.
Fans will be permitted on the property for the event and CDC social distancing guidelines will be recommend. For ticketing and race day schedule information, please visit mahoningvalley-speedway.com.
For all the latest news and updates surrounding the Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels, including future scheduling announcements, visit atqmra.com. Furthermore, check out the ATQMRA on various social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram.
Staff Report | Friday, July 10th, 2020
HOWELL, NJ- The Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels will embark on another year of racing at “The Jersey Shore” as Wall Stadium Speedway has been formally added to the 2020 schedule.
The ATQMRA will be racing at Wall Stadium’s inner oval on Saturday August 8th, 2020 and Saturday September 5th, 2020. These dates, of course, will be ran prior to the season ending Turkey Derby XLVII at Wall Stadium Speedway on Saturday, November 28th, 2020.
As of July 10th, 2020, the ATQMRA scheduled is as follows based on confirmed race-dates from track promoters:
July 18th- Wall Stadium Speedway (Open Practice)
July 25th- Mahoning Valley Speedway
August 8th- Wall Stadium Speedway
August 15th- Bethel Motor Speedway
September 5th, Wall Stadium Speedway
September 18th- Chapel Hill Raceway (Open Practice)
September 19th- Chapel Hill Raceway
November 7th- Bethel Motor Speedway
November 14th- Turkey Derby XLVII (Open Practice)
November 21st- Turkey Derby XLVII (Open Practice)
November 28th- Turkey Derby XLVII
The originally announced ATQMRA practice for Saturday July 11th was cancelled for the TQ Division. The practice has since been cancelled for all divisions due to forecasted inclement weather.
At this time, it is expected that fans will be in attendance for all race day events with limitations. Please check out the individual websites of each respective racing facility for details.
Chapel Hill Raceway has also announced a full day of open practice for competitors on Friday, September 18th, 2020. Camping on racetrack grounds will also be free to all competitors for the duration of the weekend.
The ATQMRA Handicap system will begin after three events are completed this season. The first events of the season will follow the pill-draw system.
This schedule is subject to change due to fluidity of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, until the ATQMRA is given official word from track promoters, the schedule will remain as listed above.
For all the latest news and updates surrounding the Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels, including future scheduling announcements, visit atqmra.com. Furthermore, check out the ATQMRA on various social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram.
Staff Report | Friday, July 10, 2020
HOWELL, NJ- The Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels will once again attempt to begin a new decade of TQ Midget Racing at Mahoning Valley Speedway on Saturday, July 25th, 2020.
The newly announced date, is a make-up event from the rained-out race from last weekend.
The ATQMRA will also be racing at Bethel Motor Speedway on August 15th, to make-up the originally scheduled May 30th race-date which was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown in New York State.
Both events are expected to take place with fans in attendance.
*****WE ARE AWAITING CONFIRMATION***** that TQs will be permitted to practice on Saturday, July 18th. The website states the practice is a normal, open practice from 11am-4pm. To avoid all confusion, Buddy will be reaching out to Diane again tomorrow to confirm we are welcomed.
Our up-to-date schedule as of Wednesday July 8th is as follows:
July 25th- Mahoning Valley Speedway
August 8th- Wall Stadium Speedway
August 15th- Bethel Motor Speedway
September 5th- Wall Stadium Speedway
September 19th- Chapel Hill Raceway
November 7th- Bethel Motor Speedway
November 28th- Turkey Derby XLVII @ Wall Stadium Speedway
This schedule is subject to change due to fluidity of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, until the ATQMRA is given official word from track promoters, the schedule will remain as listed above.
For all the latest news and updates surrounding the Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels, including future scheduling announcements, visit atqmra.com. Furthermore, check out the ATQMRA on various social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram.
Staff Report | Friday, June 19th, 2020
HOWELL, NJ- Select Chick-fil-A Restaurants have partnered with 2018 ATQMRA Rookie of the Year Kyle Taraska to sponsor his #22 TQ Midget in 2020.
When the Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels opens their season at Mahoning Valley Speedway next weekend, Kyle Taraska will have a new look, new sponsor, and new number compared to years past.
The New Jersey Shore Chick-fil-A Market featuring independently owned restaurants in Edison, Howell, Brick and Monmouth, New Jersey, will be featured proudly on the #22 TQ Midget for the duration of the 2020 season. Taraska, a Chick-fil-A General Manager, is excited about the upcoming partnership.
“I mentioned the idea to my boss over the winter about collaborating with an entire market and she was instantly intrigued,” said Taraska. “Chick-fil-A has obviously had a huge impact on my life. It’s really humbling for a group of restaurant owners to stand by me like they are and I cannot wait to see what comes from our partnership this year.”
Not only will Taraska represent an iconic company, but he will sport an iconic look this season as well.
“I wanted to race the #22 this year to honor Lenny Boyd. The Boyd family means a lot to me and I feel if there is a car racing out of the Boyd Shop, it better have a #22 on it,” he said.
The number, along with the wrap is a nod to Bobby Allison’s 1983 #22 Buick Regal. The old school look which was designed by Timmy Solomito and Natural Design Concepts & Apparel LLC, will surely resonate with many fans throughout the season.
Entering his third season since being rookie eligible, Taraska hopes to capitalize racing a new car and new opportunity, which began at the end of last season.
“There are a lot of people I am thankful for that have gotten me to this point in my career. But without Russ Bailey, Lenny and Donna Boyd, this year wouldn’t be happening for me. I cannot wait to get on the track and hopefully make them proud by competing for wins and maybe even a championship.”
The Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels kicks off a new decade of TQ Midget racing on Saturday, June 27th, 2020 at the Mahoning Valley Speedway in Lehighton, Pennsylvania. Fans will be permitted to attend the event. For ticket information, please visit mahoningvalley-speedway.com.
For all the latest news and updates surrounding the ATQMRA, including future scheduling announcements, visit atqmra.com. Furthermore, check out the ATQMRA on various social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram.
Staff Report | Saturday, June 13th, 2020
LEHIGHTON, PA- The 2020 Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels will officially kick off a new decade of TQ Midget competition on Saturday, June 27th, 2020 at the Mahoning Valley Speedway.
After a long awaited hiatus due to complications regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, the fast and fierce winged TQ Midgets will be on-track for the first time this year in only two weeks time.
Fans will be permitted in the grandstand area. The following of CDC guidelines such a face coverings will be recommended but not required
An optional $25/car paid practice will be offered to all competitors beginning at 12:00 PM EST on race day, with a regular show to follow beginning at 3:30 PM EST. A full event schedule will be announced in the coming days.
Competitors are strongly encouraged to complete their 2020 membership forms prior to race day on June 27th. However, forms will be available as needed at the speedway.
The ATQMRA will be announcing future 2020 schedule updates in the coming weeks, once applicable. For all information regarding the latest ATQMRA news updates, follow us on our various social media accounts including Facebook and Instagram.
Staff Report | Wednesday, May 13th, 2020
AURORA, NY- Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels drivers Joey Bailey, Buddy Sload and Kyle Taraska are set to compete in an eSport TQ Midget iRacing Invitational.
While race fans across the globe seek to fill the void of minimal live motorsports competition, the Race of Champions has worked in conjunction with Speed51.com to present the “Presque Isle Downs & Casino Race of Champions Festival,” beginning on Thursday May 14th, 2020.
The eSport event will be hosted on the iRacing platform, using the simulation’s “Asphalt Sprint Car,” based on no asphalt midgets being available in the sim to-date. The 39 lap feature will be raced at the virtual Las Vegas Bullring.
“Modeled after “Presque Isle Downs & Casino Race of Champions” Weekend, which is held at Lake Erie Speedway each September, competitors from across all divisions will have an opportunity to compete. Four Cylinders, Midgets, Street Stocks, Super Stocks, Late Models and Sportsman (SK) Modifieds will have their turn at virtual glory,” stated the Race of Champions press release.
While iRacing may be new phenomena to many due to recent events involving COVID-19, 2018 ATQMRA Rookie of the Year Kyle Taraska continues to be an advocate for the simulation.
“While iRacing, or any sim will never replicate real racing to a “T,” it is a great platform to keep drivers in shape from a mental standpoint,” stated Taraska. “iRacing is a lot of fun and while we all want to get back on the real track as soon as possible, I am really excited to help represent the ATQMRA on Speed51.com and appreciate everyone involved at RoC for making this event happen.”
The event will be broadcasted for free on Speed51.com’s eSport Network beginning at 7:30 PM EST. The TQ Midget program will begin after the conclusion of the 4 cylinder action which is set to kick off the event. The TQ Midget format will consist of single car qualifying and heat races to set the field for the 28 car feature.
The Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels patiently awaits the beginning of a new decade of TQ Midget Racing. ATQMRA Officials will continue to work with track promoters and local government officials in order to provide a revised 2020 schedule once applicable. For all information regarding the latest ATQMRA news updates, follow us on our various social media accounts including Facebook and Instagram.
Staff Report | Monday, April 27th, 2020
HOWELL, NJ- Veteran race car driver Tom Sherman, Mooresville, NC, is ready for a new challenge by competing for ATQMRA rookie honors once racing begins this season.
Originally based out of Farmingdale, NY, the former Nassau County Police Officer has a storied career competing in multiple motorsports divisions over the years.
“I started racing go karts on Long Island with my dad when I was 9 years old before moving up to full sized cars at 16,” said Sherman.
This would then kick off a diverse career that featured Sherman behind the wheel of Pro Four Modifieds, Pro Tour Trucks, Tour Modifieds, Late Models, and Legends Cars which he has raced consistently over the last decade.
This off-season, Tom Sherman decided to make the jump into TQ Midget Racing, purchasing the Boyd-Built Chassis Richie Davidowitz piloted the last 2 ATQMRA seasons.
“My buddy, Paul (Dodorico), was a catalyst in making this deal come together. My father and I wanted to buy this car about 3 years ago however we didn’t have the means at the time to complete the deal. Everything came together perfectly this past December to make this happen, and I can’t wait to get behind the wheel this year.”
With the understanding of the fluid situation regarding COVID-19, Sherman’s original plans were to trek north for the Wall Stadium and Bethel events. However, he will wait and see what the reconfigured ATQMRA schedule looks like when applicable.
While Sherman aims to run all the laps and gain as much experience as possible, he will also race with a heavy heart as he hopes to honor his father who unfortunately lost his long fought battle with cancer this past December.
“This will be the first time I have ever went off to race on my own without my dad throughout my entire career. However, I know he will still be with me in spirit at every race.”
Sherman will sport the #27 this season with support from primary sponsor Oval Speed Unlimited.
The Hoosier Tire Mid-Atlantic ATQMRA powered by VP Racing Fuels patiently awaits the beginning of a new decade of TQ Midget Racing. ATQMRA Officials will continue to work with track promoters and local government officials in order to provide a revised 2020 schedule once applicable. For all information regarding the latest ATQMRA news updates, follow us on our various social media accounts including Facebook and Instagram.
Yesterday afternoon, we learned of the passing of Motorsports Photographer John John “JJ” Lane.
JJ was a staple to the Wall Stadium and ATQMRA community. While he was known for his hard work ethic and state of the art photography, he will be remembered for the positive impact he made on so many racers and individuals within our racing community. There is no denying that JJ was not only a racer at heart, but most importantly a genuinely good person.
While the pit area at Wall Stadium will never be the same without JJ’s fist bumps and presence, his legacy will be celebrated for the years to come.
On behalf of the ATQMRA, we send our sincere condolences to the Lane family, and all those affected by this tragic passing. Godspeed JJ.