MainStreetNewsSports

Braselton’s Shane Sawyer put on a commanding performance Saturday night, as he led the most laps en route to taking the victory in the ASA Matt Hawkins Memorial 100 at Lanier National Speedway.

Sawyer led early, controlling the pace for the first half of the event. The only bobble came when he found himself caught up in lap traffic, allowing Pendergrass’ Paul Kelley and Cleveland’s Jason Hogan to slip by just after the half way mark of the event.

A series of cautions gave Sawyer an advantage, as a two-wide restart allowed him to reclaim the lead after a caution. Sawyer would lead the last 22 laps and take the victory. [Full Story »] 

The renovation process at Gresham Motorsports Park got underway in earnest Tuesday with groundbreaking on the site of the former Peach State Speedway.

“We got the permits completed to do the dirt work and we’re off and rolling,” said GMP General Manager Dan Elliott. “We’ve broken ground and we’ve begun the excavation for the new entrances, the grandstand and the lowering of the infield. It’s a big day around here.”

When completed this fall, Gresham Motorsports Park will feature a totally refurbished asphalt racing surface, fencing and retaining walls for the half-mile oval. [Full Story »] 

Lanier National Speedway will be a busy place this weekend, as the Braselton speedway plays host to the SpeedFest 2009 race weekend, Jan. 23-25.

SpeedFest will culminate on Sunday with a 200-lap Super Late Model event, and a 100-lap Pro Lat Model event. Qualifying events for both divisions will be held on Saturday, with Friday serving as an open practice day for all competitors.

Several local drivers are scheduled to take part in the weekend’s events, including Jefferson’s Nick Potts, Jimmy Garmon of Braselton, Russell Fleeman of Dacula, Shawn Simpson of Talmo, and John Wes Townley of Watkinsville. [Full Story »]