MANITOWOC EXPO ANNOUNCES NEW HOBBY PROGRAM! By Bill Schlei

June 3, 2002; Manitowoc, WI - The new Manitowoc Expo Speedway kicked off it's season two weeks ago with a line-up that included IMCA Modifieds and Stock Cars, Street Stocks and an all new Hobby Stock category that is fast gaining attention with fans that have always had an interest in racing their own car but didn't have the funds to compete.

"These cars are basically bone-stock autos that have been gutted, had a roll cage and belts added and that's it." says track promoter Dave Gauger. "We estimate that the average car in this division costs around five hundred dollars to build start to finish."

With this kind of incentive, some area young people have jumped on the bandwagon and are seeing immediate results.

Erik Wetenkamp of Manitowoc has won the first two feature events in his rookie season. Second generation driver Ken Nelson of Brillion is also trying to break in as a hobby driver in the number 26, the same as his fahter's Mid-American stock car.

The Expo Speedway is taking their encouragement a step further, though, by offering assistance to anyone considering taking the Hobby stock "plunge".

"We can provide sources for the teams to find cars to use as raw material, instructions on how to properly reinforce the ride and even hook them up with people who can get them the proper safety equipment at a fair price." Gauger added. " We feel we're providing a community service by giving young drivers a place to race affordably and safely other than the streets. I think that's something even non-race fans could appreciate."

For more information on this program, go to the MES web site at racingonline.com and click on the Manitowoc Expo Speedway box where you can find all the information regarding rules and regulations for the class. Further information is available on every Wednesday when the Expo has their regular race program at the Expo Grounds track. Just ask any track official for details.

Who knows, the next Matt Kenseth, Dale Jr., or Jimmie Johnson could be right here waiting to make his or her mark on the racing world.