Ken Duke Jr honored at PASS Banquet
Ken Duke Jr. honored at PASS Banquet
1/21/2017 Wormleysburg, PA
It was a night to remember for Ken Duke Jr. Saturday when he was presented his 2016 championship trophy by Hall of Famer Donnie Kreitz Jr. at the PASS/IMCA awards banquet held at Dukes Riverside in Wormleysburg, PA. Duke grew up admiring Kreitz and followed his career as far as the Kings Royal where he was in attendance for Donnie’s win. Kreitz was on hand Saturday as his daughter Kassidy races in the series and graciously offered to do the honors. Kreitz is a longtime friend of RaceSaver founder French Grimes and agreed to take part in support of one of his biggest fans.
Teams traveled from far and wide via limo, school bus and even a motor home. Jake Waters was Master of Ceremonies for the trophy presentation and did an excellent job in his announcing debut as he continues his recovery from injuries last season. Waters will also appear at Racing Xtravaganza in a few weeks at a meet and greet along with Kassidy Kreitz, Ken Duke Jr. and 2015 champ Zach Newlin.
Along with the trophies and plaques for the top 15 Saturday night, several special awards were given out courtesy of the Fairfield Chevrolet Cadillac who provided the trophies.
Scott Lutz earned Rookie of the Year for the series finishing 3rd in the overall points. Lutz also picked up the award for Pennsylvania state champion earlier this year from IMCA.
Cale Reigle was awarded the Most Improved Driver for 2016. Cody Hackenberry and Ryan Lynn were also nominees.
Series volunteers voted Erin Statler for the Sportsmanship Award which proved popular to teams in attendance as well.
Dave Ort was awarded the Directors Award in recognition for his support of the series. Ort performs engine tech for RaceSaver® and is the competitive tech inspector at most races.
Finally, volunteers also awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award to Director Rod Ort for his years of service to the group.
After the banquet, numerous prizes were given away to drivers and attendees and the 2017 schedule was circulated with a record 47 dates inked for the series tentatively. Attendees learned there will be 3 races this season paying at least $1000 to win along with a multiple race “Beer Hill Cup” series to be announced along with more schedule details at Racing Xtravaganza February 4th and 5th.