Month: June 2026

The Demise of the American Slot Car Boom

I ran across this video, a history of Russkit (Jim Russell) and the AFX story. I highly recommend watching this sometime. I lived through the slot-car boom way back then. I raced at the commercial tracks, club tracks, and home tracks, mostly in the 70s and early 80s.

What Killed Russkit?

While I mostly stayed in the HO (1/64) scale racing, I did dabble in 1/24 and later 1/32 stuff. Anyway, this is a fairly good historical review of the grand years of the American slot-car era.

Russkit’s last days, or what could have been…

Early on in the video, the narrator discusses some of the reasons why the slot car boom ended. There were many reasons, but the one that hit home for me was the “competition” issue.

The video describes how many enthusiasts of the day were driven away by the incredible technological innovation and the ever-increasing level of sophistication in preparing cars to compete, even at the club level, let alone at the more serious commercial and professional levels.

There were plenty of other issues, of course:

      • Lack of persistent regional/national racing organizations and standardized rules
      • Overemphasis on top-level (pro) racing and car building
      • Lack of emphasis on entry- and mid-level racing (core of boom)
      • Barriers to entry and the path to higher levels were too complex

All of these issues still persist today.  Which is exactly why Stewart Raceway focuses its racing programs on entry- and fun-level rules. We mostly run out-of-the-box (off-the-shelf) cars and IROC-style racing. We also emphasize four different levels (divisions) of competition: Junior, Amateur, Advanced, and Masters.

Because of the time it takes to run a typical slot-car rotational race, we mostly run all divisions together in the same race but score each division separately. This isn’t ideal for a level playing field, but it does allow lower-division drivers to be measured competitively against their peers and to achieve commensurate accolades and recognition for their successes.

The point of this post is to illustrate that slot car racing has always been and remains driven by the core principles of friendly competition, fun, and ease of entry into the hobby/sport. Oh, and lots of racing!!

Yes, we have heated competition and support Masters-level racing, but even at our top level, the ability to compete is easily attainable, even for those with little or no technical expertise.

Okay, shut up and drive!

 

 

Thursday Night Under The Lights, Round 5 Finale: A Symphony of Speed and Shifting Tides!

⚠️ This report was primarily generated by an AI model.

Thursday Night Under The Lights, Round 5 Finale!

Event Date: June 25, 2026

In a night that epitomized the thrilling unpredictability of slot car racing, Stewart Raceway’s SR3 Road Course Squeeze Lane delivered another unforgettable “Thursday Night Under The Lights” session, Round 5. The air crackled with anticipation as drivers navigated the challenging circuit, renowned for its tight turns and strategic fuel management, a hallmark often celebrated in the race recaps on stewartraceway.org. This evening was characterized by exceptionally close battles across multiple classes, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats until the very last lap. A standout narrative of the night was the meteoric rise of Advanced driver Cece Caro, whose consistent top-tier performances strongly suggest her imminent ascension to the Master division. Adding to the excitement, new driver Andy Gersh demonstrated an impressive knack for adapting quickly to the unique demands of the SR3 squeeze lane and fuel-intensive racing, showcasing the talent pipeline thriving at Stewart Raceway.

Race Summaries and Analysis

Race 1: MegaG+ 1.7 Formula e (i) 18v

The MegaG+ Formula e class kicked off the evening with a fiercely contested race on the SR3 Road Course. After a series of intense segments, Master driver Dean Donaldson emerged victorious, showcasing exceptional consistency on the challenging Squeeze Lane. The top of the leaderboard was incredibly tight, with four Master drivers separated by mere laps.

Race 1 Results: MegaG+ 1.7 Formula e (i) 18v

Race Place Driver Total Laps Total Points Class
1 Dean Donaldson 78 61 Master
2 Steve Stewart 78 56 Master
3 Dustin Jolley 75 55 Master
4 John Rogers 78 52 Master
5 Joe Clarke 69 44 Master
6 Cece Caro 72 40 Advanced
7 Andy Gersh 68 40 Advanced
8 Ramsey Wright 63 28 Advanced

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 161_Jun-25-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html

Highlights:

  • Dean Donaldson’s Triumph: Master driver Dean Donaldson clinched a hard-fought victory, demonstrating superb control and strategic driving.
  • A Photo Finish: The race for the top spots was exceptionally close, with Dean Donaldson, Steve Stewart, and John Rogers all completing 78 laps, highlighting the precision required on the SR3.
  • Advanced Drivers Impress: Advanced drivers Cece Caro and Andy Gersh both notched up 40 total points, showcasing their increasing proficiency on this demanding track. Andy Gersh, in particular, continues to rapidly adapt to the intricacies of the SR3 Road Course Squeeze Lane.

Race 2: Viper-Jet NAStruck Lexan (i)

The Viper-Jet NAStruck Lexan race proved to be another high-speed affair, with drivers pushing their cars to the limit. The competition remained incredibly tight, particularly among the Master division.

Race 2 Results: Viper-Jet NAStruck Lexan (i)

Race Place Driver Total Laps Total Points Class
1 Steve Stewart 80 61 Master
2 Dustin Jolley 77 56 Master
3 John Rogers 78 53 Master
4 Dean Donaldson 78 53 Master
5 Cece Caro 75 51 Advanced
6 Andy Gersh 74 46 Advanced
7 Joe Clarke 68 28 Master
8 Ramsey Wright 67 28 Advanced

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 163_Jun-25-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html

Highlights:

  • Cece Caro’s Stellar Performance: Advanced driver Cece Caro once again demonstrated her formidable talent, securing 5th place and narrowly missing a podium finish against a field of seasoned Master drivers. Her 75 laps were just three shy of the joint 3rd place Masters, underscoring her readiness for the next division.
  • Consistent Showing for Gersh: New Advanced driver Andy Gersh continued his strong adaptation, securing 6th place with 74 laps, keeping pace with more experienced competitors.
  • Tight Master Battles: Dustin Jolley, John Rogers, and Dean Donaldson engaged in a thrilling contest for the secondary podium spots, with John and Dean tying on total laps.

Race 3: Mega G+ 1.7 Corvette C8 (i)

The Mega G+ Corvette C8 class brought more intense competition. This race was particularly noteworthy for the exceptional performance of the Advanced drivers, who truly pushed the boundaries of their division.

Race 3 Results: Mega G+ 1.7 Corvette C8 (i)

Race Place Driver Total Laps Total Points Class
1 Dustin Jolley 79 55 Master
2 Dean Donaldson 77 53 Master
3 John Rogers 78 52 Master
4 Cece Caro 78 51 Advanced
5 Steve Stewart 77 50 Master
6 Joe Clarke 71 41 Master
7 Andy Gersh 72 38 Advanced
8 Ramsey Wright 67 36 Advanced

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 165_Jun-25-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html

Highlights:

  • Cece Caro’s Breakthrough: In a truly remarkable performance, Advanced driver Cece Caro finished 4th, matching Master driver John Rogers’s total laps (78) and securing 51 points, just two points behind 2nd place. This incredible drive further solidifies her status as a top contender and makes her ascent to the Master division all but certain. This achievement is a highlight for lone advanced drivers.
  • Dustin Jolley’s Victory: Master driver Dustin Jolley secured a convincing win, navigating the Corvette C8 with precision.
  • Gersh’s Steadfast Performance: Andy Gersh continued his consistent run, finishing 7th with 72 laps, underscoring his quick proficiency on the track.
  • Ramsey Wright’s Endurance: Advanced driver Ramsey Wright completed 67 laps, showcasing endurance and determination in a competitive field.

Race 4: OS3 TFX (i) Ramsey Set

The final race of the evening, featuring the OS3 TFX Ramsey Set, brought the action to a dramatic close. This class often demands a different driving style, testing versatility and car control.

Race 4 Results: OS3 TFX (i) Ramsey Set

Race Place Driver Total Laps Total Points Class
1 John Rogers 77 59 Master
2 Steve Stewart 76 56 Master
3 Dustin Jolley 73 53 Master
4 Dean Donaldson 73 48 Master
5 Cece Caro 69 38 Advanced
6 Ramsey Wright 69 28 Advanced

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 166_Jun-25-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html

Highlights:

  • John Rogers Dominates: Master driver John Rogers took a commanding victory in the OS3 TFX class, demonstrating his adaptability across different car types.
  • Advanced Drivers Side-by-Side: Cece Caro and Ramsey Wright, both Advanced drivers, concluded the race with an identical 69 laps, emphasizing their competitive drive and skill even in a less familiar car class. This closely matched performance highlights individual advanced driver achievements.

Conclusion

Thursday Night Under The Lights, Round 5, was a testament to the thriving slot car racing community at Stewart Raceway. The consistently tight finishes and the remarkable performances from both seasoned Masters and ascending Advanced drivers like Cece Caro and Andy Gersh made for a memorable night. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Cece Caro’s continued journey, anticipating her official entry into the Master division, while Andy Gersh’s rapid development promises more exciting races to come. These events continue to uphold the vibrant, competitive spirit that Stewart Raceway is known for.

⚠️ End of AI‑generated content.

⚠️ This report was primarily generated by an AI model.

“Thursday Night Under The Lights, Round 5: Close Quarters Racing and a Stellar Performance Propel Cece Caro Towards Master Division Stardom! (June 26, 2026)”

Another electrifying night of slot car racing unfolded at Stewart Raceway for Round 5, delivering thrilling competition across all divisions. The SR3 track, with its infamous squeeze lane and demanding fuel racing, pushed every driver to their limits, resulting in some incredibly tight finishes and significant shifts in the overall points standings. While the track owner continued his strong run, the spotlight truly shone on the fierce battles brewing just behind him, particularly with the stellar ascent of Cece Caro.

Points Standings by Driver Division

Here are the summarized points standings after a gripping Round 5:

Master Division Standings

Place Driver Laps Points
1 Dustin Jolley 1487 901
2 John Rogers 1442 844
3 Dean Donaldson 1398 842
4 Joe Clarke 383 201
5 Kevin Webster 330 175
* Steve Stewart 1536 996
Note: Steve Stewart’s results are presented for record-keeping purposes as the track owner. Competition for championship points in the Master Division remains fiercely contested among the other top drivers.

Advanced Division Standings

Place Driver Laps Points
1 Cece Caro 1391 748
2 Max Dunn 332 180
3 Andy Gersh 214 124
4 Ramsey Wright 266 120
5 Jeff Seltzer 204 112

Amateur Division Standings

Place Driver Laps Points
1 Trakker Clay 441 230
2 Rip Rippen 14 17

Key Insights and Statistics:

  • Cece Caro’s Breakthrough Performance: Cece Caro delivered an astonishing performance, securing the top spot in the Advanced Division with an impressive 748 points. Her lap count of 1391 was remarkably close to the Master Division front-runners, marking her as a significant talent. This outstanding showing clearly signals her readiness for the Master division, and we anticipate her formal ascension soon, making her a formidable contender among the sport’s elite.
  • Andy Gersh: A Rising Star: Newcomer Andy Gersh quickly demonstrated his prowess, adapting seamlessly to the challenging SR3 track. His 124 points and 214 laps are a testament to his rapid learning curve, especially concerning the SR3’s notoriously tricky squeeze lane and strategic fuel management. Andy’s performance suggests he will be a driver to watch in future rounds.
  • Amateur Division Highlights: Trakker Clay showcased strong, consistent racing, leading the Amateur division with 230 points over 441 laps. His dedication and skill continue to impress, demonstrating the depth of talent emerging from the Amateur ranks. Rip Rippen also made an appearance, garnering 17 points, indicating a desire to join the competitive fray and hone his skills.
  • Close Battles in Master Division: Beyond the overall leader, the Master Division saw extremely tight competition. Dustin Jolley (901 points) maintained a solid lead, but John Rogers (844 points) and Dean Donaldson (842 points) are locked in a battle for the podium, separated by just two points! This intense rivalry promises an exciting conclusion to the 2026 season.

Historical Context from Stewart Raceway:

Stewart Raceway, a cornerstone of the slot car racing community, has always prided itself on fostering both fierce competition and a welcoming environment for drivers of all skill levels. The challenging SR3 track, with its unique layout featuring the “squeeze lane” and sophisticated fuel racing mechanics, is designed to test not just speed, but also strategy and driver discipline. This philosophy, rooted in years of racing tradition documented on stewartraceway.org, ensures that natural talent and dedicated practice are rewarded. The tiered division structure (Junior, Amateur, Advanced, Master) serves as a clear progression path, allowing drivers like Cece Caro to steadily advance based on consistent, high-level performance, creating new rivalries and pushing the limits of the sport.

⚠️ End of AI‑generated content.

Okay, next up, possibly next Thursday, but could be a Saturday, is our annual IROC Challenge. Six IROC races determine our 2026 season IROC champs in each division. Stay tuned for details.

Again, a big thanks from the Stewart Raceway for participating and making this Thursday Night Series so fun and successful. Oh, and don’t forget to work on your MegaG+ 1.7 Modified platforms. We’re going to start running that class soon.

Okay, shut up and drive!

MegaG+ 1.7 Modified Class: New Rules and Build Guidance

The earliest version of this car class had very limited rules, allowing only the super-light photo-paper body and aftermarket rear axles, tires, and rims. The new rules allow for much more performance enhancements, transforming this rig into a true “builder” class platform.

Because of the “can” motor construction, you don’t need to be a rocket scientist to put together a competitive car. The basic, easiest mods are relatively cheap to procure and easy to install.

This guide will provide you with links for sourcing the parts and components needed to transform any MegaG+ 1.7 rolling chassis into a speedster racing platform.

The first thing to focus on is what type of body you want to run. Smart money says the photo-paper body will likely be the best choice for raw speed and handling. However, you can choose any snap-on plastic, resin, or 3D-printed hardbody to get started in this class. Right now, the rules call for a Whelen-style body similar to the above paper bodies. F1/Indy bodies are not allowed.

Here is a 3D-printed body we’ve used at Stewart Raceway on IROC sets.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/285415821110?_skw=sk&itmmeta=01KVHNDBQYGH1F0V4CRPWCJC59&hash=item42741bcf36:g:-5UAAOSwIwlgEEQI

Right now, the only sources for photo-paper bodies are through Stewart Raceway or Webster Motorsports (Kevin). Kevin’s body is probably a bit heavier than the Stewart Raceway design, but might be a bit more durable.

Right-click and open in a new tab for a larger image.

Stewart Raceway will provide a pre-designed body upon request for any regular participant at Stewart Raceway. If you’d like custom graphics, please email them to me, and I’ll see what I can do. I’m also thinking about creating a Lexan Whelen-style body. We’ll see where that goes.

The next important upgrade is an aftermarket rear axle assembly. You can do multiple options here. I suggest just purchasing one or two complete Viper rear ends. I think you can purchase without tires also.

This mod gives you a significant performance boost and lets you run any Viper Narrow PST Slip-On tire set.

Both 25-tooth and 23-tooth gearing are allowed. No metal gears! The lower tooth count provides higher speeds on larger tracks.

https://viperscaleracing.com/product/mega-g-g-pro-rear-end-setup/

The next upgrade would be an independent front-end assembly. This component provides for smoother corner entry and exits, which means better handling and faster lap times.

Brass, Delrin, or Alloy hubs are allowed.

 

The jury is out on which setup will work best and which courses, but my thinking is that the heavier (brass) material will allow a heavier pickup shoe spring tension. In theory, this will provide a bit more speed and keep the front end planted better.

This setup also allows a wide range of tire circumferences, giving you more tuning options to dial in your car for any track or course layout.

https://viperscaleracing.com/product/mega-g-brass-390-independent-front-end-setup/

 

Up next would be a motor upgrade. There are several options available here.

This is a motor and electronics board available from either Jag Hobbies or Viper. Viper also makes their own replacement motor assembly, which should be available on their site soon.

There are various motor options out there. The original MG+ motor had a green endbell. Newer cars have a red or orange endbell. The Jag and Viper assemblies appear to have black endbells as shown here.  Some are faster than others, but any of these motors can outperform another at times.

https://viperscaleracing.com/product/jag-replacement-motor-assembly-mega-g/

https://jaghobbies.com/ho_slot_cars/parts_tomy.htm

In any case, aftermarket motor assemblies with stripped electrical boards are, at a minimum, lighter in weight. If you’re running a brass independent front, this can help the car come off the start line and through the corners a little faster.

I don’t want to get into the weeds with the details here. The above parts and components will get your MegaG+ 1.7 chassis in the ballpark and competitive at Stewart Raceway.

Of course, there are many other ways to improve this platform’s performance. From front and rear axle shimming to replacing or otherwise changing pickup shoe spring tensions, this class provides builders with a very flexible, highly tunable racing platform.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please comment below or email any Master division driver. We’re hoping to start racing these new cars as soon as we have enough drivers with race-ready cars.

Parts List:

Front Axle Spacer .010″ (10 pcs) $2.95
NEW COLORS V2 Aluminum Independent Front End Setup – Black $8.95
V2 Independent CNC Retainers 3 pr. (Delrin) $4.50
Independent Front Tires – .326 $2.50
Independent Front Tires – .336 $2.50
MG+ Lexan Body Clip (Fits Viper Pin out) $3.99
JAG Replacement Motor Assembly Mega G+ $9.95
Brass Pinion Stopper .025″ (10 pcs) $3.95
Polypro Mega G 23T Crown Gear $3.95
Mega G+ Pro Rear end setup .250 NDFR $13.95

Thursday Night Under The Lights, Round 4: The Jolly Rogers and Jolley Pirate Invasion of the SR3 Road Course!

 

⚠️ This report was primarily generated by an AI model.

Event Date: June 18-19, 2026

The Stewart Raceway circuit lit up once again for Round 4 of the “Thursday Night Under The Lights” series, delivering a thrilling display of slot car racing skill and strategy. This batch of reports captures intense action across various classes, all contested on the challenging SR3 Road Course Squeeze Lane. In a true test of driver ability, the event maintained an All IROC (International Race of Champions) format, meaning all competitors raced with identical equipment within their class, putting the focus squarely on technique and nerve. A fierce, yet friendly, “Jolly Rogers” and “Jolley Pirate” invasion set the stage for an evening of high-speed chases and close finishes.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the races:

Race 1: Viper-Jet NAStruck Lexan (i)

Date: Jun-18-2026 18:38

The opening event saw the Viper-Jet NAStruck Lexan cars take to the track, immediately setting a competitive tone. Master driver Dustin Jolley demonstrated early dominance, securing the win. However, the performance of the Advanced and Amateur class drivers truly caught the eye. Advanced driver Cece Caro proved a consistent threat, holding her own against the Masters, while amateur sensation Tracker Clay showcased remarkable talent with a second-place finish in the first segment, setting an impressive benchmark for his class.

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Dustin Jolley 75 52 664.048
2 John Rogers 77 49 643.836
3 Steve Stewart 78 59 624.189
4 Cece Caro 71 48 663.797
5 Dean Donaldson 74 47 655.480
6 Trakker Clay 65 42 717.550
7 Jeff Seltzer 63 32 656.851

 

View Full Details: RaceReport_ 154_Jun-18-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html
View Full Details: Scoring Jun-19-2026 11-25 Race 1.html

Race 2: Viper V-SPEC L4 NASCAR Hardbodies (Team Jolley)

Date: Jun-18-2026 19:24

The second race brought out the Viper V-SPEC L4 NASCAR Hardbodies, with Dustin Jolley once again piloting his “Team Jolley” car to victory. The Master-class competition was fierce, but Advanced drivers Cece Caro and Jeff Seltzer demonstrated impressive form, battling hard for midfield positions. Cece Caro, in particular, maintained a strong presence, securing multiple top-three segment finishes, ultimately landing her fifth overall. Amateur driver Tracker Clay continued to gain valuable experience, keeping pace despite the intense competition.

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Dustin Jolley 79 56 602.722
2 John Rogers 79 51 575.580
3 Steve Stewart 78 58 554.936
4 Dean Donaldson 74 50 590.389
5 Cece Caro 75 44 615.212
6 Jeff Seltzer 70 42 600.898
7 Trakker Clay 66 28 702.756

View Full Details: RaceReport_ 155_Jun-18-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html
View Full Details: Scoring Jun-19-2026 11-27 Race 2.html

Race 3: MegaG+ 1.5 Lexan (Team Jolly Rogers)

Date: Jun-18-2026 21:10

This MegaG+ 1.5 Lexan class saw the “Team Jolly Rogers” in full swing, with Master drivers John Rogers and Dustin Jolley leading the charge. Steve Stewart ultimately claimed the top spot. However, the real story here was the remarkable progress of both Advanced and Amateur drivers. Cece Caro was a standout, securing first place in two segments and finishing a solid fifth overall against a strong field. Even more impressively, Amateur driver Tracker Clay tied Advanced driver Jeff Seltzer in total laps and points, achieving 71 laps and 38 points each, marking a significant improvement in his performance!

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 79 56 597.033
2 John Rogers 79 52 616.751
3 Dean Donaldson 78 50 623.965
4 Dustin Jolley 73 49 609.464
5 Cece Caro 76 46 599.801
6 Jeff Seltzer 71 38 596.715
7 Trakker Clay 71 38 629.076

View Full Details: RaceReport_ 157_Jun-18-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html
View Full Details: Scoring Jun-19-2026 11-28 Race 3.html

Race 4: Mega G+ 1.7 Corvette C8 (i)

Date: Jun-18-2026 22:14

The Mega G+ 1.7 Corvette C8 class provided another spectacle, with Steve Stewart taking the victory. John Rogers and Dean Donaldson completed the top three. Advanced driver Cece Caro continued her strong showing, maintaining a consistent fourth-place finish, demonstrating the depth of talent emerging from the Advanced class. Her ability to consistently place high among Master drivers is a testament to her skill and determination.

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 99 56 747.334
2 John Rogers 96 47 759.498
3 Dean Donaldson 95 50 741.156
4 Cece Caro 94 44 769.163
5 Dustin Jolley 93 38 771.516

View Full Details: RaceReport_ 159_Jun-18-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html
View Full Details: Scoring Jun-19-2026 11-28 Race 4.html

Race 5: Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan

Date: Jun-18-2026 23:11

The final race of the evening, featuring the Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan cars, concluded the night with an electrifying performance from Advanced driver Cece Caro. While Steve Stewart secured the overall win, Cece Caro clinched an outstanding second place, outperforming multiple Master drivers including Dustin Jolley and John Rogers. This incredible achievement highlights her exceptional progress and skill, particularly in a highly competitive IROC format.

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 99 55 539.120
2 Cece Caro 98 40 577.483
3 Dustin Jolley 97 49 539.508
4 John Rogers 97 44 554.794

View Full Details: RaceReport_ 160_Jun-18-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html
View Full Details: Scoring Jun-19-2026 11-28 Race 5.html

Key Highlights and Top Performers

The “Thursday Night Under The Lights, Round 4” event was a showcase of competitive racing, particularly highlighting the rising talent in the Advanced and Amateur classes.

  • Overall Dominance (De-emphasized): Steve Stewart demonstrated his prowess by securing the top spot in three out of five races, and Dustin Jolley claimed two victories.
  • Advanced Class Standout – Cece Caro: Advanced driver Cece Caro had a truly remarkable evening.
    • She consistently challenged Master drivers, securing two segment wins in the MegaG+ 1.5 Lexan class (Race 3).
    • Her crowning achievement was an incredible second-place overall finish in the Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan class (Race 5), outperforming several Master competitors.
    • She also maintained strong top-four finishes in several other highly competitive races.
  • Amateur Class Star – Tracker Clay: Amateur driver Tracker Clay showed significant improvement and flashes of brilliance throughout the night.
    • He achieved an impressive second-place finish in Segment 1 of the Viper-Jet NAStruck Lexan race (Race 1).
    • In the MegaG+ 1.5 Lexan race (Race 3), Tracker tied Advanced driver Jeff Seltzer in both total laps (71) and total points (38), a testament to his rapid skill development in the IROC format.
  • Advanced Class Consistency – Jeff Seltzer: Jeff Seltzer proved a steady competitor, contributing to the strong Advanced class showing and notably matching Tracker Clay’s performance in Race 3.
  • Fastest Lap of the Night: The absolute fastest lap recorded during the event was a blistering 4.501 seconds by Steve Stewart in the Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan class (Race 5, Segment 1).

Driver Category Analysis

  • Master Class: The Master drivers, including Steve Stewart, Dustin Jolley, John Rogers, and Dean Donaldson, consistently occupied the top positions, showcasing their veteran skill. The friendly rivalry between Team Jolley and Team Jolly Rogers added an extra layer of excitement to the night’s proceedings.
  • Advanced Class: The Advanced class, particularly Cece Caro, proved that the gap to the Master class is rapidly closing. Her consistent top-tier finishes and an outstanding second-place overall underscore the growing talent in this category. Jeff Seltzer also delivered solid performances, demonstrating the class’s competitive depth.
  • Amateur Class: Tracker Clay‘s performance was a major highlight. His ability to compete fiercely and even match an Advanced driver in terms of laps and points signifies his dedication and rapid improvement, making him a driver to watch in future rounds.

New Track Records

Records took place on June 18, 2026 on the SR3 Road Course Squeeze Lane configuration.

June 18, 2026 — 21:55 Session

      • Car: MegaG+ 1.5 Lexan Team Jolly Rogers

      • Fastest Lap: 5.822 in the Orange lane by Dustin Jolly

June 18, 2026 — 20:16 Session

      • Car: Viper V-SPEC L4 NASCAR Hardbodies Team Jolley

      • Lane 5: 5.688s – Dustin Jolley (Fastest of this session)

      • Lane 4: 5.763s – Steve Stewart

      • Lane 2: 5.790s – Steve Stewart

      • Lane 3: 5.830s – Dean Donaldson

June 18, 2026 — 19:17 Session

      • Car: Viper-Jet NAStruck Lexan (i)

      • Lane 5: 5.906s – Steve Stewart

      • Lane 4: 6.339s – Dustin Jolley

The fastest lap of the event was Steve Stewart’s 4.501 seconds in the Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan class.

The Thursday Night Under The Lights, Round 4, was a night of high-octane slot car action, proving that competition is thriving at Stewart Raceway. The “All IROC” format truly highlighted driver skill, and the impressive performances from Advanced and Amateur drivers, especially Cece Caro and Tracker Clay, indicate a bright future for the sport.

⚠️ End of AI‑generated content.

Yet another awesome Thursday night of racing. A big thanks to all who made it out on a weeknight for some racing and brought all the great food and hydration products! I think we’re going to need a treadmill setup at each driver station soon.

⚠️ This report was primarily generated by an AI model.

SlotTrak Racing: Overall Series Standings Report After Round 4 – Divisional Breakdown

Date: June 19, 2026
Time: 15:37

The latest overall standings after Round 4 highlight some strong performances and clear leaders across the divisions. Master division drivers continue to dominate the top ranks, but impressive showings are also seen in the Advanced and Amateur categories. Notably, several drivers from the registered roster have yet to score points in these overall standings, suggesting either missed rounds or non-scoring participation.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the points standings by driver division:

Master Division Standings

The Master division sees fierce competition at the top, with Home Cook’n currently holding a commanding lead.

Place Name Points Laps Total Time (s)
1 Steve Stewart 773 1225 10534.161
2 Dustin Jolley 682 1183 9406.705
3 John Rogers 628 1131 8714.835
4 Dean Donaldson 627 1092 9976.973
5 Kevin Webster 175 330 3978.133
6 Joe Clarke 88 175 1239.143

Master Division Insights:

  • Home Cook’n Advantage: Steve Stewart has built a significant lead with 773 points and an impressive 1225 laps, clearly setting the pace.
  • Close Battle for P2-P4: Dustin Jolley, John Rogers, and Dean Donaldson are locked in a tight battle, with only 55 points separating 2nd and 4th place.
  • Mid-Pack Gap: There’s a substantial points gap between the top four and the rest of the Master division, indicating consistent high-level performance from the leaders.

Advanced Division Standings

Cece Caro is currently leading the Advanced division by a substantial margin, showcasing her skill among a competitive field.

Place Name Points Laps Total Time (s)
1 Cece Caro 568 1097 10075.794
2 Max Dunn 180 332 NA
3 Jeff Seltzer 112 204 1854.464

Advanced Division Insights:

  • Clear Frontrunner: Cece Caro stands out with 568 points, placing her fourth overall across all divisions, a truly remarkable performance from an Advanced driver.
  • Second Tier: Max Dunn and Jeff Seltzer hold second and third in the division, but with a significant gap to Cece Caro. Max Dunn’s “NA” for total time suggests incomplete data or partial participation.

Amateur Division Standings

Trakker Clay has established a strong lead in the Amateur division, with Rip Rippen rounding out the standings.

Place Name Points Laps Total Time (s)
1 Trakker Clay 230 441 4164.782
2 Rip Rippen 17 14

Amateur Division Insights:

  • Commanding Lead: Trakker Clay leads the Amateur division convincingly with 230 points and 441 laps.
  • New to the Track: Rip Rippen has just 17 points and 14 laps, with “NA” for total time, possibly indicating very limited participation in the recorded rounds.

Overall Key Takeaways

  • Master Dominance: The Master division holds the top three overall spots, underscoring the experience and speed of its drivers.
  • Cece Caro’s Breakthrough: Cece Caro’s performance in the Advanced division is exceptional, placing her among the top contenders overall.
  • Participation Gaps: A significant number of registered drivers across all divisions, particularly Advanced and Junior, have not yet recorded any points, suggesting varying levels of participation or a late start to their season.

The next rounds will be crucial as drivers vie to improve their standings and challenge the current leaders. We look forward to more thrilling slot car action soon!

⚠️ End of AI‑generated content.

Next Thursday is looking good right now for the final round of this series. After that, we’ll do a one-day or one-night IROC Championship, followed by a new series that will focus on IROC racing and both our MegaG+ 1.7 “Lite” and the new MegaG+ 1.7 “Modified” classes. Stay tuned for some details on the new Modified class.

Okay, shut up and drive!

Thursday Night Under The Lights, Round 3 – A Night of Triumphs and Technical Twists!

⚠️ This report was primarily generated by an AI model.

June 4th, 2026, saw the SR3 Road Course Squeeze Lane come alive with intense slot car action, culminating in a spectacular display of skill and speed. While several drivers carved out impressive performances, the evening’s narrative was undeniably shaped by the formidable presence of Team Jolley Rogers, composed of the dynamic duo, [John Rogers] and the indomitable [Cece Caro], the Tyco Girl. Their commanding performance, particularly in the Mega-G+ 1.7 Lites class, was a sight to behold, though it did shine a spotlight on an unforeseen technicality. Acknowledging that the spirit of fair competition is paramount, it appears that a subtle discrepancy in the published “Lite” class rules on the Stewart Raceway website, specifically regarding an allowed 7/23 gear combination versus the stock 7/25, led to an unintentional rules violation concerning aftermarket rear axle assemblies. This highlights the ever-evolving nature of slot car regulations and the need for precision to ensure a level playing field for all competitors. Despite this, the talent and determination on display from Team Jolley Rogers were undeniable, making for a truly memorable night of racing.

Race 1: Jag TR-3 GT Speed Racer Dean Set

Date: Jun-04-2026
Track: SR3 Road Course Squeeze Lane
Class: Jag TR-3 GT Speed Racer Dean Set

The evening kicked off with an exciting Jag TR-3 GT Speed Racer class, where drivers battled for supremacy on the challenging SR3 Road Course Squeeze Lane. [John Rogers] made an immediate impact, dominating Segment 1 with a solid win and clocking a fantastic fastest lap of 5.059 seconds. However, consistency paid off in the long run. After five intense segments, it was Steve Stewart who ultimately secured the overall victory, demonstrating remarkable consistency across lanes. Dean Donaldson put in a strong effort to take second, and [John Rogers] rounded out the top three. [Cece Caro], though facing some early challenges, fought hard to maintain her position.

Name Total Laps Race Place Total Run Time
Steve Stewart 79 1 581.685
John Rogers 76 2 586.915
Dustin Jolley 73 3 594.224
Cece Caro 72 4 593.591
Dean Donaldson 71 5 560.965

View Full Details: RaceReport_ 146_Jun-04-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html

Race 2: Misc Road Course – Team Jolley’s Lexan Retro Vipers (12v)

Date: Jun-04-2026
Track: SR3 Road Course Squeeze Lane
Class: Misc Road Course

This class featured Team Jolley’s set of Lexan Retro Vipers, running at a potent 12 volts, promising a fast and furious competition. [Dustin Jolley] proved to be the master of this varied machinery, claiming the overall victory with a total of 77 laps and 52 points. The race was a fierce points battle, with [Steve Stewart] securing second place overall, just two points behind. [John Rogers] secured a commendable third place with 49 points, showcasing great skill in handling the Retro Vipers. [Cece Caro] demonstrated consistent driving, finishing 5th overall but contributing significantly to the team’s strong presence. Her fastest lap of 10.448 seconds in Segment 4 was a highlight, and she was poised for a strong finish until she unfortunately went ‘Out’ in the final segment.

Name Total Laps Race Place Total Points
Dustin Jolley 77 1 52
Steve Stewart 77 2 50
John Rogers 76 3 49
Dean Donaldson 73 4 46
Cece Caro 72 5 38

View Full Details: RaceReport_ 147_Jun-04-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html

Race 3: Tyco 440-X2 Wide-Pan Porsche 935 Hardbody

Date: Jun-04-2026
Track: SR3 Road Course Squeeze Lane
Class: Tyco 440-X2 Wide-Pan Porche 935 Hardbody (i) Jolle

The iconic Tyco 440-X2 Wide-Pan Porsche 935 Hardbody class brought classic slot car action to the track. [Steve Stewart] once again demonstrated his proficiency, securing a dominant win with 80 laps and a perfect 64 points. His consistent performance across all segments was unmatched. [John Rogers] put in an excellent performance, taking second place with 74 laps and 44 points, including a blistering 6.264-second fastest lap in Segment 3, showcasing his adaptability across different car types. [Dustin Jolley] finished a close third, only one point behind [John Rogers]. [Cece Caro] also showed strong pace, finishing 5th but matching [John Rogers]’s total laps, and posting a very respectable 6.496-second fastest lap in Segment 2.

Name Total Laps Race Place Total Points
Steve Stewart 80 1 64
John Rogers 74 2 44
Dustin Jolley 74 3 43
Dean Donaldson 74 4 42
Cece Caro 74 5 42

View Full Details: RaceReport_ 149_Jun-04-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html

Race 4: Mega-G+ 1.7 Lites (Support Class)

Date: Jun-04-2026
Track: SR3 Road Course Squeeze Lane
Class: Mega-G+ 1.7 Lites (Support Class)

This was arguably the most talked-about race of the night, not just for the incredible performance but also for the ensuing technical review. Team Jolley Rogers delivered an utterly dominant performance in the Mega-G+ 1.7 Lites class. [John Rogers] clinched a spectacular victory with 79 laps and 54 points, showcasing absolute mastery of the track. Right on his heels, [Cece Caro] secured an outstanding second place, also with 79 laps and 49 points, underscoring the formidable partnership of Team Jolley Rogers.

However, it was during this class that a rule clarification became necessary. As detailed on the Stewart Raceway website (stewartraceway.org), the “Lite” rules allowed for a 7/23 gear combination, a provision that was unintentionally misinterpreted by Team Jolley Rogers. This led to the use of illegal aftermarket rear axle assemblies on their cars, differing from the true stock 7/25 combination. The rules, while published, required further clarification to prevent such an honest oversight. Stewart Raceway remains committed to transparent and fair competition, and this situation highlights areas for improvement in future rule sets to ensure all participants are on an equal, compliant footing. Despite this, the raw speed and talent displayed by [John Rogers] and [Cece Caro] were undeniably impressive, and they truly pushed the limits of the cars and the track.

Name Total Laps Race Place Total Points
John Rogers 79 1 54
Steve Stewart 79 2 51
Cece Caro 79 3 49
Dean Donaldson 74 4 41
Dustin Jolley 72 5 40

View Full Details: RaceReport_ 151_Jun-04-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html

Race 5: Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan

Date: Jun-04-2026
Track: SR3 Road Course Squeeze Lane
Class: Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan

The final race of the night featured the Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan cars, known for their agility and speed. Dean Donaldson made a spectacular entry, snatching the fastest lap of the entire event in Segment 1 with an incredible 3.707 seconds! Despite this blistering pace, consistent, clean racing allowed [Steve Stewart] to take his third overall victory of the night, completing 100 laps and accumulating 61 points. [Dustin Jolley] secured a strong second place, just one lap shy of the leader, highlighting his competitive edge. Dean Donaldson’s early speed translated into a solid third place finish. [John Rogers] and [Cece Caro] continued to show their competitive spirit, finishing 4th and 5th respectively, both completing an impressive 96 and 94 laps.

Name Total Laps Race Place Total Points
Steve Stewart 100 1 61
Dustin Jolley 99 2 58
Dean Donaldson 96 3 44
John Rogers 96 4 36
Cece Caro 94 5 36

View Full Details: RaceReport_ 152_Jun-04-2026_SR3RoadCourseSqueezeLane.html

Overall Highlights and Top Performers

Thursday Night Under The Lights, Round 3, was a night of high-octane racing and intriguing developments.

  • Dominant Duo: Team Jolley Rogers (comprising [John Rogers] and [Cece Caro]) showcased exceptional synergy and speed, particularly highlighted by their 1-2 finish in the Mega-G+ 1.7 Lites class. Despite the later technical clarification regarding the Lite class rules, their performance was a testament to their driving prowess.
  • Unparalleled Speed: The fastest individual lap of the entire event was recorded by Master driver [Dean Donaldson] in the Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan class, clocking an astonishing 3.707 seconds in Segment 1. This is a new benchmark for the SR3 Road Course Squeeze Lane and will surely be a target for future competitors.
  • [John Rogers] consistently placed in the top half of all races, securing a 2nd, 3rd, 2nd, 1st, and 4th place finish. His adaptability across different car classes was noteworthy, including a remarkable 6.264-second fastest lap in the Tyco 440-X2 Hardbody race.
  • [Cece Caro], the Tyco Girl, demonstrated significant improvement and competitive drive throughout the evening. Her second-place finish in the Mega-G+ 1.7 Lites class alongside [John Rogers] underscored Team Jolley Rogers’ collective strength. She showed strong segment performances and maintained competitive lap times across various classes.
  • Consistent Challenger: [Dustin Jolley] was a constant threat, securing a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finish, showcasing strong performances in multiple classes.

The evening’s events, especially the Mega-G+ 1.7 Lites race, emphasize the dynamic nature of slot car racing and the importance of precise rule interpretation. Stewart Raceway (stewartraceway.org) is dedicated to ensuring a level playing field, and clarifications based on events like these will further refine the competitive environment. Congratulations to all the drivers for a thrilling night of racing!

⚠️ End of AI‑generated content.

New Track Records

All new track records from that day were set on the SR3 Road Course Squeeze Lane layout on June 4, 2026:

🏎️ Mega-G+ 1.7 Lites (Support Class)

      • Lane 2: John Rogers — 5337
      • Lane 3: Cece Caro — 5270
      • Lane 4: Dustin Jolley — 5281

🏎️ Jag TR-3 GT Speed Racer Dean Set

      • Lane 2: John Rogers — 5343
      • Lane 3: Dean Donaldson — 5123
      • Lane 4: John Rogers — 5059
      • Lane 5: Dean Donaldson — 4202

🏎️ Tyco 440-X2 Wide-Pan Porsche 935 Hardbody (i) Jolley

      • Lane 2: Dustin Jolley — 7147
      • Lane 3: John Rogers — 6264
      • Lane 4: Steve Stewart — 6887
      • Lane 5: Dustin Jolley — 6481

🏎️ Other Classes

      • Retro Vipers (Team Jolley) (Lane 3): Steve Stewart — 9279
      • Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan (Lane 2): Dean Donaldson — 4045

I don’t think the Team Jolley Rogers Mega G+ Lites records should stand, since those cars were out of compliance with the Lites class rear axle rules, and the 7/23 gear combination resulted from a mistake in the published rules.

Dean’s 4.045 record lap above is interesting.  Dean also clicked off a 3.707 record lap in the same race in Lane 3 (Green). Dean also clicked off a 3.665 lap record in the Blue lane on this same course last month.  It won’t be long before Dean has a lock on all the Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan lap records. To put this into perspective, the next-fastest lap record for this course and car is 4.269, over a half-second per lap slower.

Oh well, it’s not easy being a Race Director! Thank you all for making it a fun night of fiercely competitive racing! It was way fun and the food excellent!!

⚠️ This report was primarily generated by an AI model.

Current Series Points Standings by Division

The cumulative points from all reported races have been tallied, providing a comprehensive view of the current series standings.

Master Division

Rank Driver Name Total Points
1 Steve Stewart 606
2 Dean Donaldson 557
3 Dustin Jolley 554
4 John Rogers 445
5 Kevin Webster 270
6 Joe Clarke 88
7 Jerry Pearson 0

Advanced Division

Rank Driver Name Total Points
1 Cece Caro 428
2 Max Dunn 286
3 Shaylyn Maddox 0
3 Bev Seltzer 0
3 Jeff Seltzer 0
3 Eric Lane 0
3 Ramsey Wright 0

Amateur Division

Rank Driver Name Total Points
1 Tracker Clay 180
2 Rip Rippen 34

Junior Division

Rank Driver Name Total Points
1 Abe Maddox 0

The May and June 2026 events have certainly set a high bar for the season, with intense competition and thrilling moments across all divisions. Steve Stewart holds a strong lead in the Master division, demonstrating unparalleled consistency and speed. In the Advanced division, Cece Caro has established herself as a formidable talent, while Tracker Clay is leading the charge in the Amateur category. With more races undoubtedly on the horizon, these standings are sure to continue their dynamic shifts as the season progresses. Stay tuned for more updates from the Stewart Raceway!

⚠️ End of AI‑generated content.

Okay, shut up and drive!