MANITOWOC EXPO BACK FROM THE GRAVE! By Bill Schlei

January 23, 2003; Manitowoc, WI - After a season filled with struggles including weather and crowd count, Manitowoc County Expo Speedway seems to have new life.

Track promoter David Gauger has gotten the go-ahead to pursue sponsorships for a full season of racing at Manitowoc in 2003.

The format would be simular to last season with IMCA Modifieds, IMCA Stocks, Street Stocks and Hobby Stocks comprising the field. One addition will be the "Flyin" four-bangers, compact four cylinder cars which came in late in the 2002 season and grew quickly into a crowd pleaser.

"2002 was a tough year for every entertainment venue including us" said Guager. "With the continued support of our track sponsors and of course the racers and fans, 2003 may be the year this thing really takes off."

Gauger also announced a date for an awards banquet to honor the 2002 competitors. It will take place Saturday February 1 at 7pm at Koeppel's La Fiesta Supper club just outside of Two Rivers. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased by calling the Expo office during regular business hours at 920-683-4378. The deadline for tickets is January 29th.

Track champions from last season include IMCA Mod pilot Jared Siefert, IMCA Stock Car's Jeremy Christians, Street Stock Paul Kuene and Hobby champ Eric Wetenkamp.