This weekend is your last chance in 2006 to hear the sounds of racing motors at the Bowl’, as the track presents its unique “Double Down Shootout” event. The program includes double non-point features for the SK’s, Late Models, Sportsman and Mini Stocks, along with a full program of both NEMA Midget & Legends racing.

According to General Manager Bill Roth, interest has been high from New England competitors that don’t usually call Waterford home. It’s expected that at least a few “outsiders” will invade the shoreline oval to try and best the regulars in this late-season finale.

Conceived earlier in the year by veteran Waterford PR boss Pete Zanardi, the event harkens back to an earlier era in New England racing history. Double-feature shows were once a staple of the season schedule in these parts, and Waterford was among the facilities to post them on the slate. This show differs in some ways, as it’s a non-point event, enabling competitors to “go for the gold” without having to worry about the numbers game.

Add in the always-exciting NEMA Midgets along with the Legends division, and it’s a great way to cap-off an exciting 2006 season. Racing gets underway at 1:30, with the grandstands opening at noon. Check the Speedbowl website for more information.

Another point of interest is the fact that the event might just yield a real “dark horse” entry. Several drivers have really improved their programs in 2006, and a show like this might just be the ticket to that ever-elusive first victory.

As reported here previously, Pete Zanardi, who’s guided the Speedbowl PR department for over a decade, will be retiring from his Waterford duties this season. Long a major player within the journalistic side of auto racing and undoubtedly one of the nation’s best and most respected motorsports writers, it’s important to note that while Pete may no longer be working for Waterford in his former capacity, he’ll continue to write about racing. That’s a good thing for all of us, as few have been able to capture the imagination of fans (and the trust of competitors), like Zanardi has over the years……

Questions continue to fly as to the future of racing at Waterford, specifically in 2007. Tell them you read it here, but if I were a betting man, I’d have to say that there will be racing at the Speedbowl next year. That’s not to say that there might not be a change in the sanctioning body, but then again, that topic is anyone’s guess.

Former multi-time Waterford Mini Stock Champion Bruce Thomas wed his long-time girlfriend Mary in a small ceremony last weekend. Best wishes for many years to come go out to the happy couple.

Former Director of Racing Bill Roberts was on hand last weekend to take in Waterford’s “Smacktoberfest” (which by the way, was a rousing success). Roberts seemed amused at the smashing good time and looked to be pretty happy in his old surroundings.

And with that, it closes out another one. Reach me at ddykes@originnet.net 

Has anyone seen Ronnie Rocco or Joey Trudeau?