High Hopes for Riverhead’s 2016 Season
With the recent release of the 2016 Riverhead Raceway schedule fans and drivers will notice a lot of changes from years past. The track will enter its 66th year of action and the first year for owners Ed and Connie Partidge and their nephew Tom Gatz.
“First and foremost how fantastic is it that Connie, Eddie, and Tom have stepped up to the plate and purchased the track,” General Manager John Ellwood said, “The relationship working with Tom has been great. I didn’t think I’d ever find somebody with as much energy and enthusiasm as me. The 2016 schedule shows it. Bringing in the other series, to link the divisions we have and to give the fans a little spice during the season. What’s most important is making sure that each show is family oriented, to bring new growth and new fans to this great venue.”
Along with the three new touring series that are coming to the track, two new divisions will be racing as well, the Riverhead Crate Modifieds and the Mini 8’s. The Crate Modifieds have shown some growth already during the offseason with some 8-12 cars expected on opening night. Meanwhile the Mini 8’s are a cost effective way to build on figure 8 racing according to Ellwood. Also new to the schedule are themed nights such as Pack the Track and Mullet Madness.
“Tom has great ideas involving the fans” Ellwood said, “We are creating a family atmosphere. I can’t wait to see Bob Finan and Steve Halpin in their costumes. Finan would look great as Elvis!”
From a racing stand point there will also be changes coming to how the fields will be set every night. Heat races will return for all divisions on non-time trial nights.
“Heats will award points to be added to the total for contention for a track championship,” said Ellwood. “New handicapping will be announced. The last three weeks of point accumulation will not be in play this year.”
Finally, outside of the track fans will see some new attractions for them to enjoy. Live music will be at the track along with a new tiki hut with 50 inch TV screens showing the action on the track along with other sporting events. Also a new track mascot will be announced for children to enjoy. Other changes include new hospitality tents for business partners of the track and new bathrooms.
“We are currently searching for marketing partners for our 2016 season,” Ellwood said.
For more information Ellwood asks that you contact either him or Joe Arian at (631) 842-7223.
Ellwood would also like to wish everyone a safe holiday season and a Merry Christmas.
Source: Brenden Madonia/LongIslandJam.com