USAC East Coast

@CBrunoRacing said Race season starts today! This morning we adjusted the throttle, pedals, and poured a new seat mold for the Sprint Car as we get ready for the USAC East Coast season.

She looks official now!! 2026 Miss USAC East Coast Sprint Cars Emma Flammer stopped by for her sash. Only a few weeks away from getting the season started. 🏁👑

Reading’s Billy Ney Still Chasing His Non-Wing Dream For Reading, Pennsylvania’s Billy Ney, sprint car racing has never just been a hobby — it’s been part of his life from the very beginning. Born in February and already surrounded by racing thanks to his father working with late model and modified teams, Ney didn’t wait long to get behind the wheel himself. By April of that same year, he was already at the racetrack, and before long his own racing career began. In 1989, Ney received a quarter midget a holiday gift, after that moment on the path was set. As the years passed, Ney continued climbing the racing ladder, eventually competing in 600 micro sprints. But when the time came to move forward, the decision to jump to 305 sprint cars came down to practicality. “We had an ‘01 Hyper and knew if we wanted to keep running 600s we’d need to buy a new car,” Ney explained. “Doug Distasio asked me to come help him at Port Royal one night when he was running a 305. After watching them race and seeing the rules they had at the time, we decided to make the switch.” While the move to 305s made sense mechanically and financially, the next step in Ney’s career was driven purely by passion. Anyone who knows Ney knows he’s a non-wing fanatic. “Why did we switch to USAC East Coast? That’s easy,” he said with a laugh. “I’m a huge non-wing junkie. It was the easiest decision I’ve ever made in racing. Hell yeah — let’s go run non-wing sprint cars full time.” That love for non-wing racing goes all the way back to his childhood. “Ever since I was a little kid, that’s all I ever wanted to do,” Ney said. “I blame it on watching Thursday Night Thunder and Saturday Night Thunder on ESPN. All my friends idolized Kinser, Doty and Swindell, and I’m over here talking about Vogler, Hewitt, Robbie Flock and P.J. Jones — the USAC guys.” Today, Ney continues chasing that dream with the USAC East Coast Sprint Car Series. Like most racers, certain tracks stand out when the schedule is released. “As a driver I love Bedford,” he said. “We just have zero luck there. With running the non-wing 600 there, I have to say Action Track USA is one where we feel like we’ve got a shot.” Last season Ney also took a shot at something many non-wing racers dream about, competing during Eastern Storm with a 410 sprint car. Unfortunately, the experience didn’t go the way he hoped. “It was always a dream of mine to run a non-wing 410,” Ney said. “But that dream quickly turned into a nightmare when we blew the 410 up the first night in hot laps at Bridgeport.” Despite the setbacks, Ney continues to show up and compete — often doing it the tough way. Unlike many teams in the sport today, Ney operates without sponsorship backing. “Unfortunately we don’t have any sponsors,” he said. “Our crew is Mick, Tyler, Keith, Doug Sr, Doug Jr, Kieran and Mom and Dad.” With a shoestring budget and used tires most nights, expectations are kept realistic. “We’re just trying to run as much as we can,” Ney said. “With no sponsors and running used tires every night, it makes it tough to compete for wins. For us, if we can get close to a top five, that’s a win.” Still, Ney knows that with a little financial support, the story could look very different. “If we could get some help funding-wise, it could be a totally different conversation,” he admitted. “But for now, we just keep doing what we can.” And for a lifelong non-wing fan who grew up dreaming of racing USAC sprint cars, simply being part of that world still means everything.

Even the series president, Ed Aikin, was out at @bridgeportspeed for the open practice on Saturday—not with his own car, but helping out other drivers as usual. (Maybe someday we can teach him which way to hold the phone when taking videos 🫢) 📸 Photo credit: SDS Photography Go check out, follow, like, share, and support your local dirt track photographers! Because you can try all you want, but you’re not going to get the quality pictures they can—with just the cell phone in your pocket.

With heavy hearts, USAC EC expresses its deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers to everyone affected by Saturday night's tragic events.

Jason Cherry Never Chased the Spotlight. He Earned It! Even though he would rather stay out of the spotlight, Jason Cherry is the type of racer that forms the backbone of the USAC East Coast Sprint Cars. Cherry admits he’s never been one for self-promotion. Racing, for him, has never been about fame or recognition. In fact, Cherry has spent his entire career competing without sponsorship or outside financial support — simply racing because it’s what he loves to do. His journey in racing started in New Hampshire, where his father worked on a Pro Stock team at Star Speedway. After years of hanging around the pits, the team owner eventually transitioned to a local micro sprint group, the Granite State Mini Sprints. Cherry and his father built a micro of their own, with his father driving for the first couple of seasons before Jason got his shot behind the wheel. By 2005, Cherry had quite literally outgrown the micros and made the move to a used 358 sprint car, beginning his sprint car career at Lincoln Speedway. After struggling, the team shifted to Selinsgrove Speedway where smaller car counts allowed them to gain more valuable seat time. When Selinsgrove switched to 360 sprint cars, Cherry converted his engine and began racing with a 360 traveling to new tracks but often battling just to make the feature. Eventually, an opportunity came along to try wingless racing — a move Cherry says changed everything. Running with the USAC East Coast Sprint Cars gave him a more relaxed environment where he could focus on driving and enjoy the sport. Cherry has also taken on a few bucket list events over the years, including making the trip to the Four Crown Nationals at Eldora Speedway and attempting the Easter Storm swing. For Cherry and his father, those trips weren’t about results as much as the experience. “Growing up we never really took vacations,” Cherry explained. “So going to different racetracks became our way of seeing new places.” Sadly, his father passed away two years ago, something Cherry admits has changed the way racing feels. For most of his career it was just the two of them working on and racing the car together. Today his sister helps at the track when she can, even surprising the team one Christmas with the first ever Cherry Racing shirts, while his wife lends support behind the scenes. But in the garage, Cherry still handles most of the work himself. When asked about goals in racing, Cherry keeps things simple: have fun and try not to go completely broke doing it. That dedication has not gone unnoticed. Cherry and his team were honored with the Dedication Award for the 2025 season with the USAC East Coast Sprint Cars. Throughout the year he showed strong speed at several stops on the tour, including runs at Port Royal Speedway and Clinton County Speedway. His determination was especially evident after suffering a flip at BAPS Motor Speedway in May, yet continuing to battle throughout the season. As for his favorite tracks, Cherry lists 1. Port Royal Speedway 2. Clinton County Speedway 3. Grandview Speedway Even if he prefers to stay out of the spotlight, Cherry’s passion for racing and the memories that fuel it, continue to drive him forward. The short track racing world needs more racers like Jason Cherry — but that’s just my opinion.

Galloway Ready to Tackle a busy 2026 schedule! At just 26 years old, Jake Galloway is preparing to compete in as many races as possible with the USAC East Coast Sprint Car Series presented by Baer Den Farms during the 2026 season. When he’s not at the racetrack, Galloway works as an automotive technician, a career that naturally fits someone who spends plenty of time around race cars. Away from the shop and the speedway, he also enjoys another fast-paced sport: ice hockey. Racing has always been a part of Galloway’s life. His father, Jay, spent more than 20 years racing winged sprint cars in Central PA, giving Jake a front-row seat to the sport while growing up. “My dad Jay raced winged sprint cars for over 20 years, so that’s really what got me into racing,” Galloway explained. Like many racers, Galloway developed an appreciation for traditional sprint car racing after watching the national-level USAC drivers compete. “I always enjoyed watching the USAC national drivers and always wanted to try it myself,” he said. “The individuals in USAC East Coast are very friendly and welcoming, and I honestly feel more competitive without the wings.” Galloway’s first appearance with the series came at BAPS Motor Speedway in May of 2025, but it didn’t go the way anyone hoped. During warmups, he was involved in a hard crash that left many wondering if he would ever climb back into a wingless sprint car. Instead of stepping away, Galloway bounced back quickly. Just weeks later, he returned to action at Port Royal Speedway and put together one of the most memorable races of his young career. “My first feature with USAC East Coast at Port Royal was pretty cool,” he said. “Multiple grooves and close racing. It was the best race I’ve ever been in.” Heading into 2026, Galloway’s goals are straightforward. “My goals involve just being consistent throughout the year,” he said. There’s also one track he’s particularly excited to visit during the season. “I’m really looking forward to going to Grandview Speedway.” Galloway’s efforts are supported by several partners helping make his racing program possible, including Matco Tools, Factory Emlet Powder Coating, Fine Line Autobody, and Gene Franckowiak. As far as long-term ambitions go, Galloway keeps things simple. “My dreams are just to be successful in life and racing. Nothing too fancy.” After overcoming an early setback and showing resilience in his return to the cockpit, Jake Galloway is looking to make the most of every opportunity when the green flag drops with USAC East Coast in 2026.

Fast Time Award Roars Back in 2026 with Bitner Automotive! The Fast Time Award is back for 2026, and it’s powered once again by Bitner Automotive! “Mr. Twister” Mark Bitner has long been a staple of East Coast sprint car racing — whether it’s weekly competition, chasing checkered flags with USAC East Coast, or turning laps in his USAC Silver Crown car. The Bitner racecars are known for being beautiful, reliable, and lightning fast — qualities Mark takes just as seriously in his daily business operations. Located in Trenton, NJ, Bitner Automotive can handle any major or minor vehicle repair. With over 65 years of experience and knowledge in the automotive industry, their two-building facility houses both a full-service repair shop and a comprehensive engine machine shop — making them a true one-stop destination. AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR As a NAPA Car Care Center and a Jasper Engines & Transmissions preferred installer, Bitner Automotive offers a wide range of services covering nearly every major system in your vehicle, including: • Oil Changes • Regular Vehicle Maintenance • Brake Jobs • Fleet Maintenance • Computerized Diagnostics • Rear Differentials • Jasper Engine Sales & Installation • Automatic & Manual Transmissions / Transfer Cases • Performance Tuning • Tire Services • Steering & Suspension • Drive Train Services • Clutches • Aftermarket Lighting & Accessories PERFORMANCE MACHINE SHOP The tradition of excellence began over 55 years ago with Bitner Repair Service and continues today with Bitner Motorsports. With constant upgrades to their machinery and a full dyno facility, they provide top-tier performance enhancement and engine restoration services to maximize horsepower in your pursuit of speed. Performance services include: • Complete Cylinder Work • Boring & Honing • Magnafluxing • Crate Engines • Racing Engines • Crankshaft Balancing • Engine Oiling Systems • Carburetor Work • Engine Balancing • Flywheel Grinding • Performance Distributor Work • Boring & Sleeving of Lifter Bores • Carburetor Calibration & Enhancement • Pulley & Accessory Drive Systems • Performance Parts & Accessories Their Viper Bite hose and crimp ends offer lighter weight, enhanced flow for fuel and fluids, and are FIRE RESISTANT — built with racers in mind. The Fast Time Award is about speed — and no one understands speed better than Bitner Automotive. You can check out their page Bitner Automotive or view their website at bitnerautomotive.com

Hires is looking to bring the Heat. Brendan Hires has racing in his DNA. Long before he ever strapped into a race car, he was already part of the sport, attending races the very month he was born with his dad and his Uncle Pat. Racing itself wasn’t a phase or a hobby for Hires; it was simply life from the very beginning. That lifelong passion turned into competition at just 12 years old when he began racing four-cylinder cars at Mahoning Valley Speedway and Grandview Speedway. Those early years helped shape his racecraft, passion and love but a major turning point came later when his Uncle Pat purchased a Sprint Car. Seeing that car and watching it hit the track it lit a fire that made Brendan want to go sprint car racing himself. In 2020, that motivation led him into Micro Sprints, and the transition couldn’t have gone much better. After later buying his own Sprintcar and getting on track, Hires found victory lane quickly, winning his first career race within just four starts with a crate. Even more impressive, his second race ever came with the USAC East Coast Sprint Cars at Action Track utilizing a crate engine with the 360’s, he was a thriller to say the least. Racing against the best, he says, “made him better.” Away from the racetrack, Brendan carries the same blue-collar work ethic into everyday life. He works in heavy equipment and recently began truck driving, balancing long hours on the job with the demands of racing, a grind he embraces. As the 2026 season approaches, Hires’ goals are straightforward and focused: run as strong as possible every night and put himself in contention for Rookie of the Year honors. His commitment to the USAC East Coast Tour was an easy decision, crediting the leadership and vision that have helped turn the series into the premier 360 sprint car organization in the region. When asked about his favorite place to race, New Egypt Speedway stands out. It’s where Brendan earned his first career sprint car win, a moment that remains one of the most meaningful of his young career. In 2025, Brendan struggled with motor issues but in the October show at New Egypt the 2 car flourished and was seen passing cars high a low! A lifted spirit came from the young racer in front of the World of Outlaw crowd! Still, some of his best memories come from racing alongside friends—sharing the track, the competition, and the camaraderie that make sprint car racing special. With backing from GPS Hauling, Tri State Truck Repair, Roy Danner Paving, Briggs Danner Car Owning LLC, Hires Services, Ellery’s Services, and E. Schneider & Sons, Brendan Hires heads into the USAC East Coast Tour with momentum, motivation, and a lifelong love for the sport. The journey that began at the racetrack as a just a boy, continues to build…. one lap at a time will make the man.

Joey Amantea & JPA Racing Products Supporting the Hard Luck Award in 2026 As the 2026 racing season approaches, one familiar name is continuing its support of local open wheel motorsports. JPA Racing Products will once again be sponsoring the Hard Luck Award. A testament to perseverance and passion in sprint car racing. At the heart of that spirit is Joey Amantea, a competitor known in the pits for his character. From starting in quarter midgets to racing micros and ultimately sprint cars, Joey’s path has always been about growth and giving back. “I like helping because I don’t want to forget where I came from,” Joey shared in a recent conversation. “Giving back means the series can still thrive.” Career Success on the East Coast: Joey’s dedication has translated into success on the USAC East Coast Sprint Cars tour over multiple seasons. Throughout his time with the series, he’s earned four career feature victories at four different tracks — Selinsgrove Speedway in 2022, Delaware International Speedway in 2023, Port Royal Speedway in 2024, and most recently Bridgeport Motorsports Park in 2025. That consistency across tracks and seasons reflects both his speed and adaptability behind the wheel. Beyond wins, Joey also showcased his competitive consistency with a strong points finish — including a top-3 in the championship standings in 2022. Why JPA Racing Products? For Joey, starting his own business wasn’t just about building a company — it was about staying connected to the sport that shaped him. “I started my business because I felt that if my racing career weren’t to work out, I’d still want to be involved in motorsports,” he said. “Helping the racing community the past 11 months has been awesome. Meeting new people and seeing new teams grow is something that I can proudly say I’ve helped.” That philosophy, of giving back as much as you take is exactly what the Hard Luck Award honors, and why JPA Racing Products’ continued support means so much to drivers and fans alike. Check out JPA Racing Products on Facebook today!

ATTENTION RACE TEAMS! Any teams planning to run any races with us this season: We’re collecting your car number logo/art to use on new lineup and results graphics for social media. If no graphic is submitted, your number will appear in a plain black or white font. Please send files to jwilkins82@icloud.com Preferred formats: Vector/SVG, PDF, or PNG Thank you — we appreciate your help!

Blaine Emery: Family Roots, Sprint Car Goals, and a Season Full of Promise. For Blaine Emery, racing has never just been about trophies — it’s been about family, friendship, passion, and doing it the right way. He’s been around racing his entire life. Growing up, his family wasn’t just sitting in the stands — they were at the local tracks helping drivers, working in the pits, and living the weekly grind that defines dirt track racing. That environment shaped him early and built a foundation that still drives him today. Before climbing into a race car, Emery chased speed on two wheels. He competed in motocross, flat track, and TT motorcycle racing until an injury forced him to step away. But racers don’t lose the itch — they just find another way to scratch it. In 2009, Blaine bought a 600 micro and started racing wherever he could. From there, he steadily climbed the ladder — running Sportsman at Grandview Speedway and eventually moving into a Late Model. It didn’t take long for him to find success, picking up heat wins and feature wins along the way. Then life called an audible. Starting a family meant stepping away from racing for four years. It wasn’t an easy decision, but it proves to be the right one. In 2020, Emery returned — this time in a Sprint Car. Sprint Cars had always been the end goal. “Knowing my budget — my wife and I — I just wanted to be in contention and have solid finishes every night, which we did.” There was no pressure to dominate immediately. No unrealistic expectations. Just consistency, competitiveness, and enjoying the opportunity to race at the level he had always worked toward. Today, the operation is truly family-driven. It’s Blaine and his brother Broc campaigning their Sprint Car together — building it, maintaining it, and showing up ready to compete. Behind Blaine stands his wife, his biggest supporter, proving once again that small team racing is always a team effort beyond the driver’s seat and right into their household. The goals have never changed. Have fun. Run as much as the kids’ schedules and sports allow. Finish solidly toward the front every night. Keep building inventory. Keep getting more consistent. And when the opportunity presents itself — win. While Sprint Cars are the present, one of Emery’s favorite memories will always be his Late Model win at Grandview Speedway. Grandview isn’t just another track to Blaine — it’s home. It’s where he grew up. It’s where he watched races as a kid. Winning there was always a dream. “Grandview will always be my go-to track. I can’t wait to go there again.” Action Track USA sits as a close second in his heart, but Grandview will always carry that special weight. Beyond his own car, Emery is deeply invested in the USAC East Coast Sprint Car Series itself. “I love the atmosphere of USAC East Coast. It just has a good vibe within. That’s why I invest time into helping it grow.” Through support, sponsorship involvement with IMT, and genuine effort behind the scenes, Blaine has become more than just a competitor — he’s someone helping build the foundation of the series. He enjoys racing. He enjoys meeting people. He enjoys helping people. And that’s exactly what USAC East Coast is about. At the core of it all, the Emery brothers built this Sprint Car program to have fun. That’s the priority. That’s the reason they show up. But make no mistake — the ultimate goal will always be to win. And with the foundation he’s built, the consistency he’s chasing, and the heart he brings to the sport, Blaine Emery isn’t just racing. He’s right where he belongs.

From Quarter Midgets to the World Stage Some racers find their way into the sport. Others are simply born into it. For this USAC East Coast competitor, racing has been a part of life for as long as he can remember. Growing up at the track watching his father compete in micros and occasionally midgets—the foundation was laid early. By the age of nine, he was already strapped into a quarter midget of his own, beginning a journey that would evolve into one of the most accomplished resumes in modern micro and sprint car racing. As the years passed, the progression was textbook but the success was anything but ordinary. He climbed the ranks through 125 and 270 micros before eventually stepping into 600 Micro competition once he was old enough to play a hands-on role in the program. What followed was a stretch of dominance that firmly established his name on the national stage. Victories came quickly and often at some of the most respected venues and events in the country—Lanco, Greenwood, Action Track USA, and Linda’s Speedway, including the prestigious Linda’s Nationals. Career-defining moments included back-to-back Tulsa Shootout victories, two Non-Wing World Championships, and a KKM Give Back win, cementing his reputation as one of the most versatile and polished micro racers of his generation. That momentum carried seamlessly into sprint car racing. Competing in the ultra-competitive 358 division, he captured feature wins and Rookie of the Year honors at both Williams Grove Speedway and Lincoln Speedway—no small feat given the depth of talent those tracks attract on a weekly basis. His skillset also earned him opportunities at the highest levels of the sport, including qualifying for High Limit events and checking off a lifelong dream by competing in a World of Outlaws race. A pivotal chapter in his career began at Delmar Speedway, where he met John and Becky Fraker during their first night out with the series. At the time, the operation was as grassroots as it gets—just him and his father—but the shared work ethic and passion for racing forged a lasting connection. After selling their sprint car engine, the team stepped away briefly, but the wingless bug never left. Last offseason, John Fraker reached out with an idea: put a program together, run a few shows, and have some fun. That conversation reignited the partnership and brought this driver back behind the wheel—right where he belongs. The 2025 season was limited by circumstances beyond their control, with rainouts wiping out several planned events. Despite the abbreviated schedule, the team used every lap as an opportunity to gather data and sharpen their notebook. Now, with 2026 on the horizon, expectations are higher and the outlook is clear. The goal this season is simple: run most—if not all—of the USAC East Coast schedule, build on what they’ve learned in setups and gearing, and put themselves in position to contend for wins on a regular basis. “I’m extremely excited to be racing again for John and Becky Fraker,” he said. “They’ve been incredibly welcoming, and none of this would be possible without their support.” That support also extends to the sponsors who make the program possible: Fraker’s Ground Maintenance, Blue Mountain Outdoor Power Equipment, and Highlands Powersports. With elite-level experience, proven winning pedigree, and a renewed commitment to the full USAC East Coast campaign, this driver isn’t just back—he’s poised to be a major player. Don’t be surprised if his name “ On the Fence” Kyle Spence, becomes a regular fixture at the front of the field in 2026.

The Staff, the Stage, and the Series Are Set for 2026 With the 2026 motorsports season now officially in the books, several new faces were introduced in the USAC East Coast booth as the series looks ahead to an exciting year. Emma Flammer was announced as the new Ms. USAC East Coast and Pit Steward. Emma took the initiative to reach out to the series after learning of an opening, showing immediate passion and interest in the role. After conversations with Series President Ed Aikin, it was clear Emma would be a great fit for the position. Emma is eager to help promote the series and is excited to learn and grow within the role. She is also involved with the Eagles Autism Foundation, helping support an important cause close to her heart. Emma currently attends the University of Delaware, where she is majoring in Health Sciences, and she resides in Pennsylvania. Also making his presence known was the new Race Director, Riley Martin of Hellertown, Pennsylvania. Riley has been immersed in racing throughout his teenage years and beyond. Now 26 years old, he has worked in the pits at racetracks all across the Northeast, turning wrenches on everything from Ryan Taylor’s 410 Sprint Cars to Ryan Godown’s Modifieds. Riley got his start in racing at just 14 years old, working with the Toth family in the Sportsman division. Riley has truly seen it all. His race-directing background includes working at an indoor go-kart facility in the Lehigh Valley, where he was responsible for organizing events, arranging races, making on-track calls, and running programs to his own high standards. His experience and passion for the sport bring a strong foundation to the role as the series heads

Baer Den Farms Presents Meat Raffle Benefiting the USAC East Coast Sprint Series Baer Den Farms is proud to announce a special meat raffle in support of the USAC East Coast Sprint Series for the 2026 season. After a successful first year as presenting sponsor of the USAC East Coast Sprint Series, Todd and Nick Baer decided to switch things up in 2026 by giving back—not only to the racers, teams, fans, and supporters, but to anyone who wants to be part of something special. The Baers are hosting a meat raffle with a grand prize of a ¼ cow, valued at $1,400. A quarter cut includes approximately 150–200 pounds of beef, fully vacuum sealed for long-term storage. Tickets are $10 each and will be sold through USAC East Coast competitors, series staff, and supporters. Tickets can also be purchased this weekend at the Len Sammons Productions Motorsports Trade Show in Oaks, PA—stop by and meet with a representative. The raffle drawing will take place in February, with meat pickup scheduled for February 19–20. Upon winning, the recipient will receive a custom cut sheet, allowing them to choose how their ¼ cow is processed—whether that’s burgers, steaks, brisket, or a little bit of everything. All proceeds from the raffle will go directly toward the USAC East Coast Sprint Series 2026 season, helping support purse money and special awards The 2026 season schedule has already been released. Baer Den Farms is located in New Tripoli, Pennsylvania. The Baer family has deep roots in both farming and racing, spanning decades. They raise a small herd of free-range Angus cattle, taking pride in their natural, non-antibiotic, non-hormone, and non-vaccinated beef. Baer Den Farms offers quarter, half, and whole beef options. Be sure to check them out on Facebook and support the people who support local auto racing. Raffle tickets will also be available for purchase on Facebook through teams and at the Atlantic City Indoor Race at the Bettler Brothers Racing trailer.

The release of the 2026 USAC East Coast schedule brings with it a familiar feeling — anticipation mixed with respect for the tracks that continue to define this tour. From tight bullrings to historic half-miles, the calendar once again showcases the backbone of USAC East Coast Non-Wing Sprint Car racing. Even more fitting, many of these venues served as the stage for some of the most memorable moments of the 2025 season. Bridgeport Motorsports Park stands as the heartbeat of the schedule, hosting multiple events from April through October. Last season, Bridgeport delivered exactly what fans have come to expect — wide racing grooves, aggressive slide jobs, and feature races decided by inches. In 2025, it was names like Amantea, Bright, and Danner standing on the stage, while championship contenders consistently separated themselves under the lights of the 4/10-mile oval. Bedford Speedway returns to the schedule in 2026 after suffering one of several rainouts last season. Meanwhile, Port Royal Speedway provided early-season momentum in 2025 with fast, demanding surfaces that rewarded patience and precision. It was Bruno charging from 11th to score a huge victory, while eventual champion Steven Drevicki also found victory lane at the Speed Palace. High-speed battles and dramatic late-race charges once again proved why Port Royal holds its iconic reputation. In 2026, the series will return twice — including a highly anticipated appearance during the Juniata County Fair in September. Big Diamond Speedway proved to be a pivotal stop with its lone appearance in 2025, delivering side-by-side racing and multiple lead changes. The wide, racy surface allowed drivers to move around freely, with features often decided in the closing laps. Briggs Danner emerged victorious, and in 2026 Big Diamond will shine even brighter with a new LED lighting system and two dates on the schedule. Selinsgrove Speedway remains a cornerstone of the East Coast series, and while multiple events were scheduled in 2025, all fell victim to rain. That only adds to the anticipation, as the Central Pennsylvania regulars of USAC East Coast are eager to return to the Snyder County half-mile for four events in 2026. The mid-summer stretch will once again highlight the diversity of the tour. Action Track USA brings its trademark intensity, where elbows-up racing and rapid restarts create instant classics. Penn Can Speedway and Grandview Speedway each add their own unique character. Unfortunately, all four combined dates at these venues were lost to weather in 2025, setting the stage for redemption in 2026. Clinton County Speedway is welcomed back to the schedule after hosting what many considered the race of the year last season. Bobby Butler scored a wildly popular victory, with passing at a premium throughout the night on the racy 1/3-mile oval. As the season pushes toward its climax, late-summer and fall stops return to familiar battlegrounds. The August and September Bridgeport events will carry playoff-level intensity in 2026, while the season-ending October shows deliver emotion, redemption, and championship-defining moments — capped off with non-winners races that give new faces a chance to shine. Looking ahead to 2026, this schedule represents more than just dates on a calendar. It’s a continuation of rivalries, a proving ground for today’s competitors, and a launching pad for the next generation of wingless sprint car stars.

Girl Power In 2025, if you were in the pits or in the grandstands, the name Olivia Thayer rang a bell. The Hanover, PA racer turned plenty of heads on the track. Quiet and reserved in the pits, Thayer transforms the moment she puts her foot on the loud pedal. Her intensity behind the wheel quickly caught the attention of fans and competitors alike. Piloting the jet-black No. 39T, Thayer entered seven events in 2025 and collected three Top-10 finishes. Her fearlessness was on full display — from a hair-raising split between two cars in a Georgetown heat race to big, confidence-filled sliders at Clinton County that raised more than a few eyebrows. Olivia is no stranger to success. An accomplished kart racing champion, she made the move to the micro sprint ranks and immediately made noise. Competing in both 270 and 600 micros at Lanco’s Clyde Martin Memorial Speedway, Thayer consistently earned the distinction of highest-finishing female, more times than can be counted. In 2024, Thayer took another major step, trading in the 1- and 4-cylinder micros for a fire-breathing sprint car. She chose to develop her skills in 358 sprint cars, primarily at Lincoln Speedway. Following that season, the Thayer Racing team made a bold move — removing the wings and committing to the USAC East Coast Series. The team also added a 410 powerplant, making several starts with the AMSOIL USAC Eastern Storm, further expanding their notebook. Looking ahead, Thayer and her team have made it clear: wingless racing will be the focus in 2026. She has committed to a full-time USAC East Coast Series campaign, while also planning to join the USAC National tour during Eastern Storm, with aspirations of racing in Indiana — often called God’s Country by sprint car faithful. Thayer also plans to sprinkle in winged appearances when the schedule allows, including select shows at Williams Grove Speedway. “Racing is my life passion and my true home. Ever since I was little, being at the track brought me peace. When I’m in the car, every worry in the world goes away.” Thayer began racing go-karts at just six years old in 2011. Growing up at Lincoln Speedway, Hunterstown, and local tracks with her father, the path was set early. “For my sixth birthday, my dad asked what I wanted to do more — soccer or racing. I said racing, obviously. Ever since then, I never looked back.” Her long-term goals in motorsports are as ambitious as her driving style. “I want to travel professionally with USAC Nationals, and a dream of mine is to run the Chili Bowl.” ⸻ 2026 Plans • Full-time USAC East Coast Series • Select USAC National events during Eastern Storm • Possible starts during Indiana Sprint Week • A handful of winged races, including Williams Grove When asked about her favorite races with the USAC East Coast Series, Thayer didn’t hesitate. “Clinton County and Georgetown. I love traveling to new tracks — it helps me expand my skills and adapt quickly as a driver.” One thing is certain: Thayer is learning this isn’t “just a sport, it’s a life style for her”. Olivia isn’t just making laps — she’s making a statement.

Looking forward to having you with us this season!!! 🏁 @JoeKata10 @Team10Racing

𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐔𝐒𝐀𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬! 👏 (Right to Left) 🏆 @RJJohnson77m || Avanti @USAC_CRA Sprint 🏆 @SteveDrevicki19 || @USACecsc Sprint 🏆 Tyler Nelson || USAC Midwest Thunder Midget 🏆 @cadensarale32 || Avanti @USAC_WSMIDGET (Accepted by Malyssa Young)