Lucas Oil Empire Super Sprints: Ransomville Speedway preview

By Dean Reynolds

You can probably count on one hand race tracks in this country that have the same ownership/promoting team that has lasted for more than two decades…Don’t have the facts but its probably a good bet.  The Ransomville Speedway falls in that category. 

DIRT Hall of Famer Stan Friesen went from the modified track champion in 1968 to ownership of the historic 4/10ths mile oval in the early 70’s.  While he is mostly retired his two sons Joel and Jamie have carried on the tradition and very successfully.  Over 35 years with the track under one family bond.  Modifieds have roamed here since 1958 and still claim the track home.

The Lucas Oil Empire Super Sprints (ESS) has a long history at Ransomville dating back to 1986.  There have been 17 total visits but this Friday, June 19th marks the first time in nine years that the stars and cars from ESS will tackle the high banks.

Drivers of local interest consist of Jim Porter, many of the local stars from the other side of the border as well as Chuck Hebing and Mike Stelter that are down the road on Route 104 in Ontario, NY.

Even though Ransomville is nestled way in the northwestern corner of New York State and draws from a small population area, fans flock to the facility week in and week out.  Bleachers go from turn four all the way down to turn one.  Modern concessions, VIP Towers are in place with the pits located off the back stretch.  The high banked oval is fast and multi-grooved.  But, the most famous aspect of Ransomville is the famed moat that is on the front stretch.  If you swing wide off of turn four you will find the moat, don’t worry though….many use it to make passes!

ESS Facts – Ransomville Speedway:
ESS Events Run: 17
Different Winners: 10
Most Wins: Tom Taber and John Birosh (3)
Last Event Run: 7/21/01
Most Recent Winner: Steve Dow

Ransomville Facts:
Location: Rt. 93, North on Ransomville Rd., West on Barley Rd.
ESS Date(s): June 19th   
Promoter(s): Joel and Jamie Friesen
Track Phone: (716) 791-3602
Website: www.ransomvillespeedway.com 

Sites of Interest:
Beautiful Niagara Falls is 20 minutes away.
City of Lockport 30 minutes away.