Toledo Speedway

After a second place finish and losing the lead with just 10 laps to go in the 1999 revival of the Glass City 200, Tim Ice was determined to get to the Winner’s Circle.  Ice made a name for himself in the early 1990’s at the track in the “Iceman” Series, named after Tim by virtue of his 10 wins at the track and 2 championships.  As the laps wound down, Ice was sitting in third place.  But, it’s not over until the checkered flag flies….

Another great field of 44 cars turned out for the race.  Steve Sauve posted the fast time at 15:53, and the last-chance races were won by veterans Fred Campbell and Harold Fair Sr.  Again, a very strong, competitive field was present.  Jimmy Thiel (#09) claimed the B Main victory.

With the top 9 cars inverted, Dennis Berry (#36) took the lead at the start of the classic.  On lap 7, a big crash in turn 1 eliminated Doug Finley, Dave Kuhlman and Roger Wing.  As luck would have it, as things went back to green, Glenn Gault dumped fluid on the surface, sending Jeff Finley and Paul Namey hard into the wall, and also collected Rick Knowles.  Berry stayed in control with pressure from Jay Sommers to the half-way mark.

Sommers jumped into the lead on lap 101 at the resumption of the race and ran strong out front, surprising the field as Jay returned to racing after a 4 year break from action.  The action behind Sommers was exciting, as 1999 race winner Tim Felver (#5) moved into contention and right behind was his teammate Canadian legend Jr. Hanley (#66).  Hanley was involved in one of the early incidents and fought his way back to the front. 

On lap 189, Jay cut a tire down and slammed the turn 3 wall, ending his bid for the win after a brilliant drive.  And the fireworks were about to start…..

Felver and Hanley entered turn 1 on lap 192 and contact was obvious, as the duo spun as the crowd stood to watch the final laps!  Ice slid through the melee’ and took the victory over Donnie Hill (#0), Sauve (#97), Berry and Scott Baker (#11).   Ice thanked Hanley and Felver in victory lane ceremonies!

The 25^th Anniversary of the Great Lakes Helicopter Glass City 200 presented by Francis Engineering, Woodville Auto Finance, Hampton Inn and Holiday Inn Express is set for Saturday, September 28.

As we move closer to the 2013 edition and this special anniversary of one of the top outlaw-bodied Late Model races in the area, please check the website each day for stories, updates, lap money sponsors, the entry list and historic notes and photos (courtesy of ARCA historians Brian Norton, Jim Hehl and track photographer Charlie Orns) of the Glass City 200. 

Lap money sponsorship and just $10 per lap and tickets are now on sale by calling 419-727-1100 today!