Kalamazoo, MI (Thursday, June 3, 2021) - The Kalamazoo Klash has been a staple at the Kalamazoo Speedway for 28 years. Traditionally, the event paired the Outlaw Super Late Models with the ARCA/CRA Super Series for two 125 lap contests. With last year’s Klash canceled due to the pandemic, the 2021 version will be a little different, even in name.
The Covid Klash XXVIII is set to go off tomorrow night at the West Michigan bullring, and will be paired with Raber’s Street Stock Rumble. The “Rumble” is in honor of Ben Raber, a former racer, who passed away a couple of years ago, and awards the Street Stock winner $2,500 at the end of 50 laps. This year, The Outlaw Super Late Models will go 100 laps for a huge $5,000 payday awaiting the victor.
Several Klash veterans have announced their intention to compete, including two-time and defending Kalamazoo Klash winner Tyler Roahrig. The Plymouth, Indiana driver is coming off the biggest win of his career in the Pay Less Little 500 at Anderson Speedway (IN) last weekend. Brian Bergakker, who had a slow start to his 2021 season, made a lot of noise last weekend with his victory in the Joy Fair Memorial 100 at the Flat Rock Speedway, has also entered. Twelve-time Kalamazoo Speedway Track Champion Andy Bozell, along with the two-time winner of the Big 8 Outlaw Super Late Model Series in 2021 at Corrigan Oil Speedway, Phil Bozell, 2019 Kalamazoo Speedway Outlaw Super Late Model Champion Adam Terry, and current Speedway OSLM points leader Todd Harrington, all plan to be in attendance.
If you’re planning on making Covid Klash XXVII the kick-off to your racing weekend, pit gates along with the ticket windows open at 12:30 pm Friday. Practice/Qualifying kicks off at 3:30 pm, with the first green flag flying at 7:30 pm. General Admission Seating is $25, Youth 6-12 $10, while kids 5 and under are FREE. For more information on Covid Klash XXVIII, go to www.kalamazoospeedway.com, or check out Kalamazoo Speedway Facebook page.
Story - Rich Frantz, Horsepower Happenings
Photo - Jim DenHamer