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	<title>Sports | West Bend News</title>
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		<title>Cougars Break Through in Ninth to End Woodlan’s Tournament Run</title>
		<link>https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/cougars-break-through-in-ninth-to-end-woodlans-tournament-run/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[News Submissions]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:05:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Amelia Riley]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Central Noble High School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cougars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ellce Krauter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Grace Swank]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IHSAA regional softball tournament]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lucy McHenry]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Molly Mann]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Warriors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Woodlan High School]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/?p=51349</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>WOODBURN, Ind. — For eight innings, the Woodlan Lady Warriors matched Central Noble pitch for pitch and inning for inning</p>
The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/cougars-break-through-in-ninth-to-end-woodlans-tournament-run/">Cougars Break Through in Ninth to End Woodlan’s Tournament Run</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="666" height="752" loading="lazy" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Wood-vs-Cent-Noble-SB-Regional-Amelia-Riley.jpg?resize=666%2C752&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-51350" style="width:450px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Freshman Amelia Riley earns the first hit of the game as she taps the ball just over the pitcher as second baseman misses it! More pictures at engagingexposures.com</figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">WOODBURN, Ind. — For eight innings, the Woodlan Lady Warriors matched Central Noble pitch for pitch and inning for inning in a tense regional softball showdown on June 2. But the Cougars finally broke through in the ninth inning, scoring four runs to claim a 4-0 victory and bring Woodlan’s postseason run to an end. &nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The regional contest was a classic pitchers’ duel through regulation and into extra innings. Neither team was able to push a run across the plate during the first eight innings as both defenses repeatedly came up with key plays. Woodlan managed just two hits in the game while Central Noble collected eight, but the Warriors’ defense and pitching kept the contest scoreless deep into extra innings. &nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Woodlan’s only hits came from freshman Amelia Riley and sophomore Ellce Krauter, who each finished 1-for-3 at the plate. Riley also accounted for both of the Warriors’ stolen bases. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Central Noble ace Grace Swank proved difficult to solve throughout the afternoon. The senior pitcher threw a complete-game shutout, allowing only two hits while striking out 20 Woodlan batters over nine innings. She did not issue a walk and faced just 30 hitters in the dominant performance. &nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Lucy McHenry carried the load in the circle for Woodlan, pitching eight strong innings. The junior allowed seven hits and three earned runs while striking out eight. Sophia Martin also saw action, pitching one inning and allowing one run. Together, the Warriors’ pitchers held Central Noble scoreless through eight innings before the Cougars erupted in the ninth. &nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Central Noble’s offense was led by Kaitlyn Tilley, who went 3-for-5 with a run scored and an RBI. Grace Swank added two hits, a run and an RBI, while Molly Mann contributed a hit, a run and an RBI. Katie Forker also drove in a run for the Cougars. &nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Woodlan’s defense recorded 27 putouts and 11 assists, committing two errors in the contest. Addison Klotz was credited with 10 putouts, while Ellce Krauter added 10 putouts behind the plate. &nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The loss ended an impressive season for the Lady Warriors, who finished with a 25-6 record and advanced to the regional round after a successful postseason run. Central Noble improved to 25-6 and advanced with the 4-0 extra-inning victory. &nbsp;</p>The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/cougars-break-through-in-ninth-to-end-woodlans-tournament-run/">Cougars Break Through in Ninth to End Woodlan’s Tournament Run</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">51349</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Left Turn</title>
		<link>https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-174/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[News Submissions]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 06 Jun 2026 12:05:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Columns]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Anderson Indiana]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Doran Racing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kody Swanson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Little 500]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ohio sports Blitz]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ron Burt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Left Turn]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/?p=51293</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By: Ron Burt ANDERSON, Ind., May 20th Kody Swanson was honored as the #1 driver of 2025 by the National</p>
The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-174/">The Left Turn</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="666" height="499" loading="lazy" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Kody-Swanson-winner-of-the-Little-500-Photo-Credit-Doran-Racing.jpg?fit=666%2C499&amp;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-51294" style="width:450px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><strong>Kody Swanson winner of the Little 500. <em>Photo Credit: Doran Racing.</em></strong></figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>By: Ron Burt</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">ANDERSON, Ind., May 20th Kody Swanson was honored as the #1 driver of 2025 by the National Pavement Sprint Car Rankings. On Saturday night he put an exclamation mark on that honor by winning his fourth Little 500 at Anderson Speedway in Doran Racing’s Wilke Orthodontics/Glenn Farms No. 77 asphalt sprint car. Swanson took command of the 33 car field and led the first 158 laps before pitting and falling to 10th,&nbsp;he battled back, passed Davey Hamilton Jr. on the frontstretch on lap 473, and led the last 28 laps of the 78th annual Little 500 for his Ohio based team’s first victory in the biggest pavement sprint car race in the world. Swanson won this race in 2016, 2018, and 2019. The top 5 finishers were 1st Kody Swanson, 2nd Davey Hamilton Jr., 3rd Dakoda Armstrong, 4th Jake Trainor, and 5th Mario Clouser.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">On May 22nd at Toledo Speedway the feature winners were Mike young in the Late Model Sportsmen division, this was his 2nd feature victory of the season and Josh Bunting won Factory Stocks feature.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Thursday, May 28, 2026, Wayne County Speedway in Orrville, Ohio, the World of Outlaw Late Model Series made a stop, with all the national stars in attendance. 45 cars showed up to compete in the Lone Wolf 40, paying $12,000.00 to win the feature. Going into tonight’s event Brandon Sheppard has raced in 4 World of Outlaw Late Model events at Wayne County Speedway and has won 3.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Nick Hoffman set quick time tonight with a 16.012. The Outlaws had 4 qualifying heat races. Heat winners were Nick Hoffman, Daulton Wilson, Ricky Thornton Jr, and Hudson O’Neal. After the redraw Ricky Thornton Jr. won the pole for the feature and Daulton Wilson started on the outside of the front row. The top 4 from each heat race made the feature. Kyle Moore, the 2025 track champion at Wayne County Speedway, was in heat 4 and finished 8th out of the 11 car field. In the Last Chance Showdown race to make the feature Moore started 8th and could only work his way up to 5th, his Late Model night is over, but he will race his Modified and that feature pays $2,000.00 to win. &nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Ricky Thornton Jr. won the 40 lap event and had the $12,00.00 payday tonight. Nick Hoffman started 4th and was able to move up to 2nd. Rounding out tonight’s podium, Bobby Pierce. He fought hard to work his way up from 8th to finish 3rd. All these drivers will be back tomorrow and Saturday night racing on the newly redone ½ mile Mansfield Speedway. It was good meeting several of you from Defiance, Van Wert and Bryan that made the trip over to Orrville tonight. Wave me down, I’m always happy to talk racing if you see me.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Some upcoming races you should have on your calendar would be Ohio Sprint Week featuring the All Star Circuit of Champions and anyone that races a 410 Outlaw Winged Sprint Car. Ohio Sprint Week will have 8 races and one open date for a makeup if needed because of weather. Tracks include 6/12 Attica, 6/13 Sharon, 6/14 Millstream, 6/15 Wayne County, 6/16 Eldora, 6/17 Rain Date, 6/18 Waynesfield, 6/19 Fremont and 6/20 Atomic. First place prize money is $7,500.00 to win at each track but the last race at Atomic Speedway will pay the winner $10,000.00.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Flat Rock Speedway(asphalt) will run the rescheduled 100 lap Joy Fair 100 for ARCA Outlaw Super Late Models June 6th.&nbsp; Fans will get a bonus. The Turn 1 CRA Pro Series will also be at Flat Rock for a 125 lap feature event.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The 500 Sprint Car Tour Series (asphalt) will take to the high banks of Toledo Speedway, Sunday, June 14th at 3PM. Many of these drivers competed against each other at the recent Little 500 at Anderson Speedway. Anderson is a ¼ mile oval and Toledo is a half mile track. The race teams will need to adjust as the cars will reach higher speeds with more room to race at Toledo. Until next week, keep your wheels down. Ron Out! www.facebook.com/ohiosportsblitz</p>The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-174/">The Left Turn</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">51293</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Left Turn</title>
		<link>https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-173/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[News Submissions]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 30 May 2026 12:05:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Columns]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brady Bacon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Campbell Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eldora Speedway]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Great Lakes Super Sprints]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Limaland Motor Sports Park]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mason Hannegan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ohio sports Blitz]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ron Burt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Left Turn]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/?p=51239</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By: Ron Burt Limaland Motor sports Park opened their 2026 featuring the Great Lakes Super Sprints in the 27th Annual</p>
The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-173/">The Left Turn</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="666" height="444" loading="lazy" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Brady-Bacon-wins-at-Eldora-Photo-credit-Campbell-Photography.jpg?fit=666%2C444&amp;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-51240" style="width:450px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Brady Bacon wins at Eldora. Photo credit Campbell Photography</figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>By: Ron Burt</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Limaland Motor sports Park opened their 2026 featuring the Great Lakes Super Sprints in the 27th Annual Run for The Rabbit, paying the winner $5,000.00. In his 7th career start Mason Hannagan found himself in Victory Lane after working his car around veteran drivers. Rounding out the top 5, John Ivy, Kalib Henry, Corbin Gurley and Zane DeVault. Todd Sherman won the Thunder Stock Feature followed by Jordan Conover who set fast time 14.994, Tony Anderson, Zach Rush and Dan Wooten. In UMP Modifieds, Dillon Nusbaum set fast time with a 13.993 and won the feature. Behind the winner Tony Anderson 2nd, Dustin Moore 3rd, Jeff Koz 4thand Shane O&#8217;Connor 5th.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">On Friday, May 15th Eldora Speedway hosted night #1 of Let’s Race Two featuring the USAC Non-Winged 410 Sprints and the World of Outlaw Winged 410 Sprints. On Friday in the USAC Sprint Feature Kyle Cummins from Princeton Indiana had a big pay day parking his car in Victory Lane. He started the feature inside row 2. Brady Bacon worked his way up from 7th to 2nd. Rounding out the top 5 Justin Grant 3rd, Briggs Danner who started on the pole came in 4th and Chase Stockon 5th. In the World of Outlaw Feature, Tony Stewart Racing driver Rico Abreu started 7th and worked through cars and found the checkered flag. Michael Kofoid, Giovanni Scelzi, Aaron Reutzel and Logan Schuchart rounded out the top 5.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Saturday, May 16th was the final night of let’s Race Two at Eldora. For the World of Outlaw Feature both drivers that started on the 2nd row moved up to finish 1st and 2nd. Logan Schuchart started P3 and was first to Victory Lane followed by Rico who started P4. Brady Bacon, Emerson Axsom, and Wooster Ohio’s Sheldon Haudenschild were your top 5 finishers in the WoO Sprints. For the USAC Feature, Brady Bacon led wire to wire, followed by Kyle Cummins, Briggs Danner, Steven Snyder Jr. and Mitchel Moles.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">On Saturday, Oakshade Raceway in Wauseon opened for their 2026 season after a few weeks of bad weather. The DIRTcar UMP Super Late Model feature highlighted a great opening night of racing. 23 Late Models started the feature with Dan Wallace starting on the pole and had the early lead. On the tenth lap, the leaders caught up to the slower cars making the field bunch up and a couple of mishaps brought out the caution flags. Your new leader was the 2025 track champion Devin Shiels, and he was able to fend off the 2020 champion, Steve Kester, in the closing laps to pick up the opening night win. Casey Noonan, Jamie Grochowski and Dan Wallace were your top 5. Your Late Model Sportsman Feature was won by Dylan Jessen on the last lap, followed by Defiance driver Josh Robertson, John Gamber, Dylan Hough and Chris Williams. Adam Lantz started 2nd in the Dominator Stock Feature but parked his car in Victory Lane after the Feature. He was followed by Mason Luttrell, RJ Cornett, Jeff Foks Jr., and Scott Hammer. In the Sport Compacts 1st Ken Wells, James Stamper, Ryan Okuley, Gage Rushlow and Wesley Belkofor.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Saturday the Ultimate Heart of America Super Late Model Series invaded Montpelier Speedway Indiana. Your podium was Rusty Schlenk, Steve Peeden and</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Dona Marcoullier. Other Feature winners UMP Modifieds Dalton Smith, and Super Stocks Super Stocks Tony Anderson. Until next week. Keep your wheels down. Ron Out! www.facebook.com/ohiosportsblitz</p>The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-173/">The Left Turn</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">51239</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Archers Shine at OHSAA District Meet, Send Multiple Athletes to Regionals</title>
		<link>https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/archers-shine-at-ohsaa-district-meet-send-multiple-athletes-to-regionals/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[News Submissions]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 12:51:53 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[4x800]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Amelia Graham]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[antwerp high school]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ayersville high school]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[OHSAA Track & Field District Tournament]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reese Durbin]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/?p=51212</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>ANTWERP — Antwerp track and field athletes turned in an outstanding performance at the OHSAA District Track and Field Meet</p>
The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/archers-shine-at-ohsaa-district-meet-send-multiple-athletes-to-regionals/">Archers Shine at OHSAA District Meet, Send Multiple Athletes to Regionals</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized" style="margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0"><img decoding="async" width="318" height="445" loading="lazy" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/EMK25795ReeseDurbin.jpeg?fit=318%2C445&amp;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-51214" style="aspect-ratio:0.7145716292134832;width:274px;height:auto"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Reese Durbin broke the Antwerp school record in girls 3200M, 12:17.17, surpassing Alexis Godeke&#8217;s record from 2007, 12:26.4</figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">ANTWERP — Antwerp track and field athletes turned in an outstanding performance at the OHSAA District Track and Field Meet at Ayersville recently, highlighted by district championships, school records, and a strong contingent advancing to next week’s regional competition in Fostoria.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Leading the way for the Archers were two district champions. The girls 4&#215;800 relay team captured first place honors, while Amelia Graham earned a district title in the pole vault with a winning performance.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Antwerp also secured two district runner-up finishes as Braxton Peters placed second in the boys pole vault and Reese Durbin finished second in the girls 3200-meter run.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Third-place honors went to Corbin Sargent in the boys 3200-meter run, while the boys 4&#215;800 relay team placed fourth. All of those athletes and relay teams qualified to advance to the regional meet.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Durbin added another major accomplishment to her impressive postseason by breaking Antwerp’s school record in the girls 3200-meter run. Durbin posted a new school-best time of 12:17.17, surpassing the previous record of 12:26.4 set by Alexis Godeke in 2007.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Antwerp athletes also performed well during district preliminaries, qualifying numerous competitors for the district finals (which took place an May 23).</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Advancing to finals were Zaine McMichael in both the 110-meter hurdles and 300-meter hurdles; Kora Zuber in the 100-meter dash and 200-meter dash; Mia Stoye in the 300-meter hurdles and 200-meter dash; Reese Durbin in the 1600-meter run and 800-meter run; Colten Sargent in the 800-meter run; and Corbin Sargent and Leigha Doster in the 1600-meter run.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Archers also qualified both the girls 4&#215;200-meter relay and girls 4&#215;100-meter relay teams consisting of Amelia Graham, Kora Zuber, Gianna Laker, and Mia Stoye.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Additional finals results included Gianna Laker earning a fifth-place finish in the girls 3200-meter run.</p>The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/archers-shine-at-ohsaa-district-meet-send-multiple-athletes-to-regionals/">Archers Shine at OHSAA District Meet, Send Multiple Athletes to Regionals</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">51212</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>New Ohio State Record Hybrid Crappie Certified</title>
		<link>https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/new-ohio-state-record-hybrid-crappie-certified/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[News Submissions]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 24 May 2026 22:32:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fred Snyder]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hybrid crappie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jesse Miller]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Middletown Ohio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ohio Division of Wildlife]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoor writers of ohio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[OWO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[White Crappie X black crappie]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/?p=51197</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>A new Ohio state record category for hybrid crappie (White Crappie X Black Crappie) has been approved by the Outdoor</p>
The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/new-ohio-state-record-hybrid-crappie-certified/">New Ohio State Record Hybrid Crappie Certified</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="318" height="504" loading="lazy" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Miller-Hybrid-Crappie.jpeg?fit=318%2C504&amp;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-51198" style="width:250px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><strong>Jesse Miller with his hybrid crappie catch.</strong></figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A new Ohio state record category for hybrid crappie (White Crappie X Black Crappie) has been approved by the Outdoor Writers of Ohio (OWO) with consultation from the Ohio Division of Wildlife.&nbsp; Biologists with the wildlife agency noted that hybrid crappies are not unusual in waters having populations of both species.&nbsp; Fisheries biologists Kipp Brown and Mike Porto from Wildlife District 5 confirmed the identification of a hybrid crappie submitted to OWO as a potential state record.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The new state record hybrid crappie, weighing 4.27 pounds, and measuring 18.3 inches long with a girth of 16 inches, was caught by Jesse Miller of Middletown, Ohio.&nbsp; Mr. Miller caught his hybrid crappie April 1, 2026 while fishing near the Middletown Dam on the Great Miami River, using a spinning rod spooled with six pound test monofilament line and offering a minnow below a bobber.&nbsp; This fish marks the first entry into Ohio’s new state record fish category.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Ohio’s record fish are determined on the basis of weight only and are certified by the Outdoor Writers of Ohio State Record Fish Committee with assistance from fisheries biologists with the Ohio Division of Wildlife.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">&nbsp; For more information on Ohio’s state record fish program contact Fred Snyder, Chairman, OWO State Record Fish Committee, 754 Co. Rd. 126, Fremont, OH 43420, phone (419) 332-0777, email fnsnyder@gmail.com or visit www.outdoorwritersofohio.org</p>The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/new-ohio-state-record-hybrid-crappie-certified/">New Ohio State Record Hybrid Crappie Certified</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">51197</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Left Turn</title>
		<link>https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-172/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[News Submissions]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 11:35:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Columns]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Aaron Reutzel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Campbell Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cole Madedo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fremont Speedway]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kalib Henry]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ohio sports Blitz]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ron Burt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Left Turn]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/?p=51190</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By: Ron Burt Tuesday, May 12th, Fremont, OH, Aaron Reutzel, a former 4 time Series Champion with the All Star</p>
The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-172/">The Left Turn</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="666" height="444" loading="lazy" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Fremont-Speedway-Podium-Aaron-Reutzel-Kalib-Henry-Cole-Macedo-Campbell-Photography.jpg?fit=666%2C444&amp;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-51191" style="width:450px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><strong>Fremont Speedway Podium: Aaron Reutzel, Kalib Henry, and Cole Macedo. Photo by Campbell Photography.</strong></figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>By: Ron Burt</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Tuesday, May 12th, Fremont, OH, Aaron Reutzel, a former 4 time Series Champion with the All Star Circuit of Champions won the NAPA Auto Parts All Star Circuit of Champions feature race, presented by Valvoline. It’s not easy to win at Fremont Speedway and when you do, it’s very sweet. $20,000.00 is a nice payday at the “Track Action Built”.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Forty cars showed up at Fremont for the All Star Circuit of Champions Race, for the Outlaw 410 Winded Sprints. A good car count for a Tuesday night race. Oklahoma driver Hank Davis, set quick time with a 11.998 lap. It was his first time at Fremont Speedway, and he was only two tenths off the track record.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Qualifying heat races were won by Aaron Reutzel, Cale Thomas, Kalib Henry and TJ Michael. Tyler Courtney struggled in his heat getting a 7th place finish, but he came back and won the B Main to advance into the feature. Cap Henry, Cole Macedo and Zane DeVault also had to transfer out of the B Main. As a bonus, Reutzel won the dash and put him on the pole for the start of the feature.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Just as the cars were being pushed out to start the $20,000.00 to win feature, the clouds moved in causing a few sprinkles. The 26 car starting field was given the green flag and Reutzel took the early lead and fended off defending the series defending champion Kalib Henry, who finished second. Wrecks and cautions kept the track clear for the leaders. Cole Macedo started 23rd and quietly knocked off cars one by one to work his way through traffic and advanced 20 positions to finish third. He just ran out of time.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Next up, the NAPA Auto Parts All Star Circuit of Champions presented by Valvoline heads east to visit Michaels Mercer Raceway Park on Saturday, May 23rd, and Wayne County Speedway on Sunday, May 24th. Both races are $7,500-to-win. Until next week, keep your wheels down. Ron out! www.facebook.com/ohiosportsblitz/</p>The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-172/">The Left Turn</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">51190</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Left Turn</title>
		<link>https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-171/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[News Submissions]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2026 11:35:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Columns]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Campbell Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eldora Speedway]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eldora Stock Car Feature]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jonathan Taylor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Modifieds]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ohio sports Blitz]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rob Trent]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ron Burt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stevie Cronenwett Jr]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Left Turn]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/?p=51113</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Once again, most racetracks were forced to cancel last weekend’s events. Some tracks were too wet and waterlogged and other</p>
The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-171/">The Left Turn</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="666" height="444" loading="lazy" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Modifieds-Opening-Night-at-Eldora-photo-credit-Campbell-Photography.jpg?fit=666%2C444&amp;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-51114" style="width:555px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><strong>Modifieds Opening Night at Eldora photo credit Campbell Photography.</strong></figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Once again, most racetracks were forced to cancel last weekend’s events. Some tracks were too wet and waterlogged and other speedways closed because the cooler temps would be uncomfortable for race teams and fans. Two tracks decided to brave the weather and fans flocked to both.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Eldora Speedway opened their 2026 season last Saturday with Family Fun Night and fireworks. Headlining the first night was the USAC Midwest D2 Thunder Midgets. 26 cars checked into the track and all 26 made the feature. Luke Hall drove his #74 into victory lane, with Bryce Massingill and Drew Rader making the podium. Due to weather no qualifying heats were ran. Eldora and USAC decided to have two shootouts with 13 cars in both. Matt Lux and Bryce Massingill were the shootout winners. Bryce Massingill was Quick Time!! Fast qualifier with a 17.810, edging Matt Lux by 0.08 sec. The USAC Thunder Midgets will be back at it at Limaland Motorsports Park, this Friday, May 8th for the annual Mike Streicher Memorial Race. It will also be opening night for the speedway.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Rob Trent won the Eldora Stock Car Feature and Jonathan Taylor took the trophy in the Modified class.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Some of our area asphalt race fans took the trip north of Toledo for opening night at Flat Rock Speedway and witnessed two track records set. Cool temps helped all the drivers reach maximum speeds around the semi banked oval. Jonathan Rangel set a new track record in the Street Stock division fast time qualifying, putting together a lap time of 12.742 seconds and just taking Stevie Cronenwett Jr&#8217;s single-lap record in the process. Avery Vanderhoof set a new track record in Figure 8 division fast time qualifying, putting together a lap time of 20.113 seconds and besting Dennis Whisman Jr&#8217;s single-lap record of 20.202 seconds from 2025 in the process.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Three classes of cars opened the 2026 season Outlaw Super Late Models, Figure 8’s and Street Stocks. Brian Bergakker had several challenges during the Super Late Model Feature but was able to hang on for the win. Scott Hantz and Paul Pelletier made the podium in victory lane. Greg Studt showed why he’s an ace in the Street Stock division, adding another win to his resume. Jonny Rangel finished 2nd and Landon Schuster 3rd. One of the big crowd draws at Flat Rock Speedway is the Figure 8’s. Fan’s hold their breath as cars avoid meeting in the middle of the track and passing each other by inches. The ones that don’t end up on wrecker hooks. Tonight was a good night for the drivers, cars, and sheet metal. Record setter, Avery Vanderhoof held his own but couldn’t reel in the winner Billy Earley. Travis Earley came in second and Vanderhoof was 3rd.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If the weather holds, many area tracks will open in the next two weeks. Make sure you check your tracks Facebook or web page and make sure they’re racing before heading out. Keep your wheels down. Ron out! www.facebook.com/ohiosportsblitz</p>The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-171/">The Left Turn</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">51113</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Left Turn</title>
		<link>https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-170/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[News Submissions]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 09 May 2026 12:05:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Columns]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Campbell Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Larry Moore]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Montpelier Speedway]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ohio sports Blitz]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ron Burt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Left Turn]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[USAC Midget Feature]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/?p=51031</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By: Ron Burt 28 USAC Midwest D2 Thunder Midgets showed up at Montpelier Speedway IN for the season opener. Congrats</p>
The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-170/">The Left Turn</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="666" height="444" loading="lazy" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Matt-Lux-No-5-won-the-USAC-Midget-Feature-at-Montpelier-Speedway-photo-credit-Campbell-Photography.jpg?fit=666%2C444&amp;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-51032" style="width:555px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><strong>Matt Lux No 5 won the USAC Midget Feature at Montpelier Speedway. Photo credit Campbell Photography.</strong></figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>By: Ron Burt</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">28 USAC Midwest D2 Thunder Midgets showed up at Montpelier Speedway IN for the season opener. Congrats to Matt Lux, taking the feature win and ending the night in victory lane. At the start of the feature Matt drove from 7th to 1st. The lead did slip away for several laps until Matt gained it back just before the halfway mark. Lux held the lead through a late final lap caution and secured victory after the restart. Behind your winner was Kole Kirkman, Gunnar Lucius, Drew Rader and Bryce Massingill. Other winners at Montpelier Speedway Saturday, UMP Modifieds Dillon Nusbaum, Super Stocks Tony Anderson and Compacts Brian Isley. The USAC Midwest D2 Thunder Midgets will have a non-points race on May 2nd at Eldora Speedway.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Congratulations to race promoter Larry Boos. He was just named race director at the Mansfield Speedway. Larry runs the annual Rumble in Fort Wayne during the Christmas holidays. Over $5,000,000.00 has been invested in the former NASCAR track at Mansfield. It’s now a half mile dirt oval, featuring new lighting, grandstands, 1 million dollar jumbotron and many updated changes. The track will run special races throughout the summer, motocross, nights of destruction and concerts. Mansfield Speedway is about 90 minutes straight east of Delphos on US 30.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Thursday, April 23rd, racing great Larry Moore passed away in a Dayton nursing facility after an extended illness. Moore was one of the best to strap into a Dirt Late Model among many other types of race cars during his long career. The Hall of Fame Driver was the first three-time winner of Eldora’s World 100 in 1979, 1981 and 1985. He started the prestigious race 12 times and finished 6 times on the podium. Moore won the Dirt Track World Championship in 1987 at Pennsboro Speedway in W. Va.&nbsp; He’s still one of the sports winningest drivers and his career went into the 1990’s with many track and series championships. Larry Moore was 83.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Saturday, April 25th history was made at the Bullring in Kokomo Indiana. Justin Grant tied a USAC NOS Energy Drink National Midget Record. He’s now in an elite class of drivers. Just four drivers, Steve Lotshaw, Rich Vogler, Tony Stewart and now Justin Grant, have won 3 season openers in the series history. When it came time for the feature Saturday night, Zach Wigal former USAC D2 Thunder Midget Champion had the pole and Justin Grant last year’s Kokomo Grand Prix winner was in P4. On lap 13 Wigal was leading but got caught up in lapped traffic and Grant used the high side of the track to pass and never looked back. On the 30th and final lap Grant had a half track lead over Wigal. At the end the only battle on the track was for the final spot on the podium. That went to Jacob Denney, He started the feature 19th and fought 30 laps to move into 3rd. The race had only two leaders, Wigal 1-12 and Grant 13-30. The night’s fastest qualifier was Kevin Thomas Jr.,13.074.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Midgets returned to Kokomo Speedway again Sunday, April 26th. Jacob Denney won the USAC Midget Feature, followed by his teammate Gavin Miller, Kevin Thomas Jr., Justin Grant and Jakeb Boxell;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The 350 Outlaw Supermodified Series announced Dick Meyers and Ram Engineering will be one of their sponsors in 2026. He’s been a loyal supporter of the series, car owners and race teams.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Great Lakes Super Sprints were set to open the 2026 Season Series on Friday, April 24th at Michigan’s I-96 Speedway and unfortunately it was canceled because of the threat of bad weather. The race teams all stayed up north to compete the following night at Crystal Motor Speedway. Mother nature cooperated on Saturday for the lightning fast 360 Sprints. Fast time and a new track record was set by Zane Devault 11.930. There was no stopping him in the feature. He ended up in Victory Lane followed by 2nd Dustin Daggett 3rd Van Gurley Jr., 4th Max Stambaugh and 5th Korbin Gurley. Until next week, keep your wheels down. Ron Out!</p>The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-170/">The Left Turn</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">51031</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>April Trapshoot a Success for Paulding FFA!</title>
		<link>https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/april-trapshoot-a-success-for-paulding-ffa/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[News Submissions]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2026 16:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Harley Troyer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jim Hoops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Karlee Kohart]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kendall Kohart]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lily Leatherman]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Makenna Manz]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nolan Schlatter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Owen Workman]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[paulding ffa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Paulding Fish & Game Club]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Remington Boroff]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trapshooting]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/?p=51034</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By: Makenna Manz, Paulding FFA Reporter On Saturday, April 18th, eight Paulding FFA members came out to participate in the</p>
The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/april-trapshoot-a-success-for-paulding-ffa/">April Trapshoot a Success for Paulding FFA!</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="1016" height="585" loading="lazy" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Trapshooting-April.jpg?fit=1016%2C585&amp;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-51035" style="width:555px" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Trapshooting-April.jpg?w=1016&amp;ssl=1 1016w, https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Trapshooting-April.jpg?resize=768%2C442&amp;ssl=1 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><strong>Members of the Paulding FFA trapshooting team left to right Remington Boroff, Owen Workman, Nolan Schlatter, Jim Hoops, Lily Leatherman, Harley Troyer, Kendall Kohart, and Karlee Kohart.</strong></figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>By: Makenna Manz, Paulding FFA Reporter</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">On Saturday, April 18th, eight Paulding FFA members came out to participate in the April trapshoot at the Paulding Fish and Game Center.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This was the seventh trapshoot of the school year. Troy Zeller from the Paulding Fish and Game club reviewed safety and the event rules with members before they received their equipment.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Contestants grabbed earplugs, safety glasses, and their firearms to compete in the contest.&nbsp; At the range, contestants are then separated into different squads where they will rotate through 5 different shooting positions.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Members competing were Nolan Schlatter, Owen Workman, Remington Boroff, Karlee Kohart, Kendall Kohart, Lily Leatherman, and Harley Troyer. Remington Boroff won the plaque sponsored by our FFA Chapter, shooting a 37 out of 50, and Harley Troyer came in 2nd. Jim Hoops was also able to stop by and watch the kids trapshoot.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Remington said his favorite part of trap shooting is the thrill&nbsp; you get when you see the clay shatter. His advice to other members is to try to use a gun that you are comfortable using, along with the same exact ammo every time, and to practice with the same setup you plan to use. After some time, it will become muscle memory, and you will know exactly where to lead your targets. Harley said that her favorite part of trapshooting is being able to shoot stuff, and the advice she would give is to hold your head high, even if you don&#8217;t get a good score.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We would like to thank the Fish and Game Club and its members for all their help and support for the Paulding FFA program.</p>The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/april-trapshoot-a-success-for-paulding-ffa/">April Trapshoot a Success for Paulding FFA!</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">51034</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Left Turn</title>
		<link>https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-169/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[News Submissions]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 02 May 2026 12:05:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Columns]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Anderson Speedway]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kody Swanson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ohio sports Blitz]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rick Kimba]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ron Burt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Left Turn]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/?p=50969</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By: Ron Burt April 19th the 500 Sprint Car Tour (Asphalt) opened the season at Anderson Speedway in Indiana. Doran</p>
The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-169/">The Left Turn</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="666" height="460" loading="lazy" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Kody-Swanson-wins-at-Anderson-Speedway.-Photo-credit-Rick-Kimba.jpg?fit=666%2C460&amp;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-50970" style="width:555px" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Kody-Swanson-wins-at-Anderson-Speedway.-Photo-credit-Rick-Kimba.jpg?w=666&amp;ssl=1 666w, https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Kody-Swanson-wins-at-Anderson-Speedway.-Photo-credit-Rick-Kimba.jpg?resize=392%2C272&amp;ssl=1 392w, https://i0.wp.com/www.westbendnews.net/autonews/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Kody-Swanson-wins-at-Anderson-Speedway.-Photo-credit-Rick-Kimba.jpg?resize=130%2C90&amp;ssl=1 130w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 666px) 100vw, 666px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><strong>Kody Swanson wins at Anderson Speedway. Photo credit Rick Kimba.</strong></figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>By: Ron Burt</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">April 19th the 500 Sprint Car Tour (Asphalt) opened the season at Anderson Speedway in Indiana. Doran Racing got its 2026 season off to an extremely successful start when the Lebanon, Ohio-based team’s Kody Swanson led all 100 laps of the 26th annual Glen Niebel Classic. It was the fourth victory in the Glen Niebel Classic for Swanson. The two-time series champion also won this race in 2018, 2021, and 2024.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Swanson topped both practice sessions but then qualified third behind Dakoda Armstrong and Tyler Roahrig. The invert went Swanson’s way, however, and he started on the pole with Armstrong alongside him. Unfortunately for Armstrong the defending series champion and the defending race winner. He was in second working lap four when his car’s right-front wheel flew off, sending him hard into the outside wall in Turn 4 with three laps down. Armstrong’s departure put Bischak into second place, which he held until Roahrig passed him on lap 52 enroute to the runner-up honors. At the end of the 100 laps, it was Swanson by 2.4-seconds over Roahrig with Bettis, Santos and Macenko rounding out the top five. All these drivers will return for the 78th Annual Little 500, May 23rd.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Saturday, April 11th was opening night at Attica Raceway Park, and it was opening night for the All-Star Circuit of Champions 410 Winged Outlaw Sprint Series. The speedway is one of the best in the country, but the past 4 weeks of weather took its toll. The different passing lanes weren’t there and there was a lot of single file racing. Attica Raceway Park 2025 Track Champion Cap Henry won the feature and took home the $7,500.00 winner’s purse. On the podium with Cap, 2nd Bryce Lucius and Tim Shaffer. Trey Jacobs won the B Feature. The 305 Winged Sprints were the support class. Brenden Torok won the Feature followed by Kasey Ziebold and Seth Schneider.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Great Lakes Super Sprints opened their season with the North vs South Shootout at the red clay, 3/8th mile oval, I-75 Raceway in Niota, TN. The GLSS and USCS battled Friday, April 10th and Saturday, April 11th. Friday’s Sprint Feature was won by Defending Hoosier Race Tire USCS Outlaw Thunder National Champion, Dale Howard from Byhalia, MS. Ohio&#8217;s Kelsey Ivey was the runner-up followed by Canadian Ryan Turner in third place. 16-time USCS NATIONAL Champion Terry Gray from Bartlett, TN and Corbin Gurley from Hebron, Indiana completed the top five.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Saturday, April 11th, Devon Dobie was able to stay out front as a battle raged behind him. Chase Dunham from Leipsic took 2nd, Dale Howard 3rd and Ryan Turner made the trip from Dunnville Ontario was 4th and Jac Nickles rounded out the top 5.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">April 11th, congrats to Rusty Schlenk for winning the Saturday night Northern Allstars UMP DIRT Late Model Series Feature at Montpelier Speedway IN at the opening night Breakout Bash. UMP Dirt Late Model drivers from 4 states made the trip. It wasn’t easy and came down to the final 5 laps. Schlenk and Jason Jameson had 7 lead exchanges with Schlenk taking control on the final lap. Rounding out the top 5 Chad Finley, Devin Shiels and Dona Marcoullier. Randy Petro won the Super Stock A-Main, and Derek Losh won the UMP Modified Feature.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Kevin &amp; Brandy Sauer made the announcement Tuesday, April 14th, they have a strategy that will allow more time with their family, while phasing out their track ownership. With all parties in agreement, Plymouth Motor Speedway and South Bend Motor Speedway are now for sale and the plan is to bring in new ownership and to help them during this transition. The 2026 and 2027 seasons will go on as scheduled. The speedway will keep providing great entertainment and racing shows. Watch for track updates on Plymouth Speedways Facebook page. Plymouth Speedway is 30 miles west of Fort Wayne on US 30.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Ron Burt (www.facebook.com/ohiosportsblitz)</p>The post <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews/the-left-turn-169/">The Left Turn</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.westbendnews.net/autonews">West Bend News</a>.]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">50969</post-id>	</item>
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