Author: Race Director

Just an old slot car racer and Race Director at Stewart Raceway.

Thursday Night “Under the Lights” – September 24, 2026

⚠️ This report was primarily generated by an AI model.

Thursday Night “Under the Lights” – September 24, 2026

The air crackled with anticipation and the aroma of a delicious meal as drivers gathered for “Thursday Night ‘Under the Lights'” at Stewart Raceway. This event proved to be a thrilling showcase of competitive racing, exceptional driving, and a friendly atmosphere. Drivers pushed their slot cars to the limit on the SR3 Road Course Tight Esses, delivering heart-stopping finishes and setting new track records. The evening also marked the much-anticipated debut of Stewart Raceway’s homegrown Race Management System, KIITS RMS, which was at the heart of Race 1’s action. While the new system’s reporting accuracy is still under review, it certainly added an intriguing layer to the night’s proceedings.

Every driver delivered a solid performance, with notable achievements from Tom Warren and Trakkar Clay who impressed with their consistent speeds and strategic driving throughout the various classes.

Let’s dive into the detailed race-by-race breakdown of this exhilarating event.

Race 1: Tom’s MegaG+ 1.7 Lite F1/Indy Cars (KIITS RMS Debut)

This race, run on Friday, September 25, 2026, served as the exciting debut for Stewart Raceway’s homegrown Race Management System, KIITS RMS. Piloting Tom Warren’s MegaG+ 1.7 Lite F1/Indy cars with both new and old-style hardbodies, the drivers put the new system to the test. While some felt the new system might not have reported the results with absolute accuracy – a point that will require detailed analysis of the RMS log file to confirm – it certainly made for a dramatic start to the weekend’s racing. Trakkar Clay emerged victorious in an incredibly tight finish where the top five drivers all completed 80 laps, with final positions determined by their overall points.

Position Driver Laps Points
1 Trakkar Clay 80 10
2 Dean Donaldson 80 8
3 Dustin Jolley 80 6
4 Steve Stewart 80 4
5 Tom Warren 80 2

Event Photo for Race 2

Race 2: Jag TR-3 GT Speed Racer Dean Set

On Thursday, September 24, 2026, the second race of the evening, the Misc Road Course class, saw intense competition. Drivers expertly navigated the SR3 Road Course Tight Esses, pushing their cars for every lap. Dustin Jolley (Team Jolley) demonstrated exceptional skill, securing a well-deserved victory with 80 laps and 55 points. Dean Donaldson (Full-Speed Racing) and Tom Warren (Airborne Racing) also put in strong performances, showcasing their precision and speed. Trakkar Clay delivered another commendable performance, adding valuable laps and points to his tally.

Place Name Laps Points
1 Dustin Jolley 80 55
2 Steve Stewart 79 54
3 Dean Donaldson 77 52
4 Tom Warren 72 42
5 Tracker Clay 64 32

Event Photo for Race 3

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 213_Sep-24-2026_SR3RoadCourseTightEsses.html

Race 3: Jag Hobbies NC-2 Lite BOX STOCK Mustangs (i)

The third race of the night, held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, brought out the powerful Jag Hobbies NC-2 Lite BOX STOCK Mustangs. This class is always a fan favorite, known for its close racing and demanding car control. Dustin Jolley (Team Jolley) once again demonstrated his prowess, securing the second-place finish with excellent driving. Dean Donaldson (Full-Speed Racing) also performed admirably, battling hard for third place, just ahead of Tom Warren (Airborne Racing), who continues to impress with his consistent effort across multiple classes.

Place Name Laps Points
1 Steve Stewart 78 61
2 Dustin Jolley 74 51
3 Dean Donaldson 73 48
4 Tom Warren 59 28

Event Photo for Race 3

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 215_Sep-24-2026_SR3RoadCourseTightEsses.html

Race 4: Mega G+ 1.7 Formula E Cars (Dean Set)

The final race of the evening on Thursday, September 24, 2026, featured the high-performance Mega G+ 1.7 Formula E Cars from Dean Donaldson’s personal set. Dean Donaldson (Full-Speed Racing) himself delivered a fantastic performance, securing a strong second place and showcasing excellent control with these demanding machines. Dustin Jolley (Team Jolley) continued his impressive streak with another podium finish in third. Tom Warren (Airborne Racing) closed out his strong night with a solid fourth-place finish, demonstrating consistency across a variety of car classes.

Place Name Laps Points
1 Steve Stewart 79 61
2 Dean Donaldson 77 48
3 Dustin Jolley 76 47
4 Tom Warren 70 32

Event Photo for Race 3

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 216_Sep-24-2026_SR3RoadCourseTightEsses.html

New Track Records

An incredible night of racing saw several new track records established on the SR3 Road Course Tight Esses. Congratulations to all drivers for pushing the limits!

Track Class Lane Driver Lap Time
SR3 Road Course Tight Esses Mega G+ 1.7 Formula E Cars (Dean Set) 2 Dustin Jolley 5759
SR3 Road Course Tight Esses Mega G+ 1.7 Formula E Cars (Dean Set) 3 Dean Donaldson 5801
SR3 Road Course Tight Esses Mega G+ 1.7 Formula E Cars (Dean Set) 4 Dustin Jolley 5741
SR3 Road Course Tight Esses Mega G+ 1.7 Formula E Cars (Dean Set) 5 Steve Stewart 5702

Overall Summary and Standings

The “Thursday Night ‘Under the Lights'” event was a testament to the skill and dedication of all participants. Every driver exhibited solid driving performance, demonstrating great control and speed across challenging courses and diverse car classes.

Master Division Standings

Driver Total Laps Total Points
Steve Stewart 316 180
Dustin Jolley 310 159
Dean Donaldson 307 156

Advanced Division Standings

Driver Total Laps Total Points
Tom Warren 281 104

Amateur Division Standings

Driver Total Laps Total Points
Trakkar Clay 144 42

Looking Ahead

From the exciting debut of the KIITS RMS to the intense battles on the track and the incredible new records set, this event truly had it all. The level of competition was outstanding, and the camaraderie among drivers was evident throughout.

Enjoy the weekend and return to Stewart Raceway again soon!

Google Photos from the Event (Additional)

Event Photo

⚠️ End of AI‑generated content.

Thursday Night “Under the Lights” – September 17, 2026

⚠️ This report was primarily generated by an AI model.

The air crackled with anticipation and the aroma of a delicious feast as Stewart Raceway welcomed a stellar lineup of slot car enthusiasts for an evening of intensely competitive racing! “Under the Lights” delivered on its promise of thrilling action, showcasing exceptional driving skill across multiple classes and tracks. With a fantastic turnout and plenty of camaraderie, it was a night where every lap counted, and new records were forged.

Overall Event Standings

The aggregate results across all four races demonstrate the consistent performance required to climb to the top. Drivers battled fiercely, and the final standings reflect a remarkable display of talent and dedication.

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 315 232 2090.981
2 Dustin Jolley 313 219 2003.071
3 Ramsey Wright 260 154 2286.042
4 Dean Donaldson 229 157 1700.334
5 Tom Warren 203 129 1725.238
6 Tracker Clay 126 68 1330.604

Dustin Jolley of Team Jolley showcased phenomenal consistency throughout the night, securing a strong second place overall, just a few laps shy of the top spot. Dean Donaldson, representing Full-Speed Racing, also had an excellent showing, proving his prowess on the tracks. A special shout-out goes to Tom Warren, who, in only his second racing appearance, drove all the way from Castro Valley to deliver an impressive fifth-place overall finish, a truly remarkable achievement! Tracker Clay also deserves immense credit for squeezing in some spirited races despite his busy schedule, contributing to the night’s high level of competition.

Race 1: Dean’s SpeedRacer TR3 GTs (i) on SR3 Road Course Tight Esses

The evening kicked off on the challenging SR3 Road Course Tight Esses with the Dean’s SpeedRacer TR3 GTs. Dean Donaldson, leading the charge for Team Full-Speed, demonstrated his mastery of the track, securing a well-deserved victory. Team Jolley’s Dustin Jolley was right on his heels, pushing hard for second.

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Dean Donaldson 78 56 611.706
2 Dustin Jolley 77 59 589.327
3 Steve Stewart 77 55 595.315
4 Tom Warren 66 44 603.428
5 Ramsey Wright 62 36 606.700
6 Tracker Clay 62 32 615.126

Event Photo for Race 2

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 210_Sep-17-2026_SR3RoadCourseTightEsses.html

Race 2: MegaG 1.5 GT-40 (i) on SR3 Road Course Tight Esses

The second race saw drivers take on the MegaG 1.5 GT-40s on the same challenging SR3 Road Course Tight Esses. This was another fiercely contested race, with several drivers demonstrating impressive control and speed.

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 80 58 674.765
2 Dustin Jolley 79 55 664.883
3 Dean Donaldson 74 56 694.881
4 Ramsey Wright 72 36 698.030
5 Tom Warren 68 41 715.008
6 Tracker Clay 64 36 715.478

Dustin Jolley continued his strong performance, securing another podium finish. Tom Warren further proved his adaptability, finishing a respectable fifth in this class, accumulating valuable experience and points.

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 212_Sep-17-2026_SR3RoadCourseTightEsses.html

Event Photo for Race 3

Race 3: Jag TR3 Augorans (i) on Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course

The action shifted to the Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course for the Jag TR3 Augorans class, promising high speeds and close competition.

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 79 58 390.416
2 Dustin Jolley 77 50 378.599
3 Dean Donaldson 77 45 393.747
4 Tom Warren 69 44 406.802
5 Ramsey Wright 68 38 390.941

Dustin Jolley and Dean Donaldson once again demonstrated their consistent top-tier performance, both hitting 77 laps. Tom Warren maintained his impressive run with a solid fourth place, accumulating valuable points and experience. The competition was incredibly tight, with just a few laps separating the top contenders.

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 92_Sep-17-2026_StewartRacewayIIStraightRoadCourse.html

Race 4: Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan on Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course

The final race of the night featured the Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan class, promising a high-octane conclusion to the event.

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Dustin Jolley 80 55 370.262
2 Steve Stewart 79 61 430.485
3 Ramsey Wright 58 44 590.371

Team Jolley’s Dustin Jolley capped off a fantastic evening with a decisive win, demonstrating incredible speed and control in the Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan class. His performance was truly a highlight, showcasing what superb driving can achieve. Ramsey Wright also put in a solid performance, securing a commendable third place after pulling out of the race due to car issues.

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 93_Sep-17-2026_StewartRacewayIIStraightRoadCourse.html

New Track Records Established!

The intense competition “Under the Lights” resulted in an impressive list of new track records! Congratulations to all drivers who pushed their limits and etched their names into Stewart Raceway history on September 17, 2026.

Track Class Lane Driver Lap Time
SR2 Straight Road Course Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan 1 Steve Stewart 3387
SR2 Straight Road Course Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan 2 Steve Stewart 3156
SR2 Straight Road Course Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan 3 Dustin Jolley 3211
SR2 Straight Road Course Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan 4 Ramsey Wright 3319

It’s clear that drivers pushed their cars and skills to the absolute limit, resulting in a remarkable number of new fastest lap records across both tracks and multiple classes. Dustin Jolley, Dean Donaldson, and Steve Stewart each contributed significantly to this impressive list, showcasing their top-tier performance on various lanes.

Concluding Thoughts

What an incredible night of slot car racing! The level of competition was exceptionally high, with solid driving performances from all participants. Tom Warren’s impressive showing, making the journey from Castro Valley for only his second racing appearance, highlights the growing enthusiasm and talent in our community.

A massive thank you to Team Full-Speed (Dean Donaldson) for preparing all the delicious eats – your culinary contributions truly enhanced the evening! And a special appreciation to Tracker Clay for expertly navigating his busy schedule to join us on the track.

The future of Stewart Raceway looks bright! With a little luck, we could soon be racing with cutting-edge new timing systems like RCai and/or Stewart Raceway’s very own homegrown RMS, called KIITS. We are constantly striving to enhance the racing experience for everyone.

May all enjoy the weekend, and we eagerly await your return to Stewart Raceway again soon for more thrilling races!

Google Photos from the Event (Additional)

Event Photo

⚠️ End of AI‑generated content.

Great drivers, great food, great night of racing!

Fall Season Opener: Thrills, Spills, and Record-Breaking Wheels on Sep-05-2026!

Thank you all for making our return to Saturday racing a huge success!

⚠️ This report was primarily generated by an AI model.

What an electrifying start to the fall season at Stewart Raceway! Racers gathered for a day filled with fiercely competitive slot car action, the welcoming return of some familiar faces, and the exciting debut of a new visitor. The tension on the track was palpable as drivers pushed their machines to the limits, leading to astonishing new track records across multiple classes and lanes. And, as always, the camaraderie was just as strong off the track, highlighted by a truly excellent lunchtime feast that fueled both bodies and rivalries.

Overall Season Opener Standings

The overall results showcase a day of consistent performance and strategic driving across three diverse races. While every driver pushed for glory, the top spots were hotly contested, with mere laps separating the leaders.

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 236 174 1653.916
2 Dustin Jolley 230 166 1651.870
3 Dean Donaldson 225 152 1657.767
4 Tracker Clay 203 114 1802.855
5 Tom Warren 198 117 1757.204
6 Eric Lane 146 85 920.165
7 Jerry Pearson 142 85 912.650

The season opener delivered on its promise of competitive racing, with a tight battle at the top. Dustin Jolley (Team Jolley) showed exceptional skill, securing a strong second place overall, just a few laps shy of the leading position. Dean Donaldson (Full-Speed Racing) rounded out the top three, demonstrating his consistent speed.

We were thrilled to welcome back Eric Lane of Fast Lane Racing and Jerry Pearson of Hairball Racing, both making their return to Stewart Raceway after a significant layoff. Their presence added to the competitive spirit, and we hope to see them back on the track soon! A special shout-out goes to our latest visitor, Tom Warren from Castro Valley, who put in a remarkably solid driving performance in his first outing with us, securing a commendable 5th place overall.

Race 1: Mega G+ 1.7 Formula E Cars (Dean Set)

Track: SR3 Road Course Tight Esses
Class: Mega G+ 1.7 Formula E Cars (Dean Set)
Date: Sep-05-2026 12:29

The opening race saw an intense battle on the SR3 Road Course Tight Esses. The nimble Mega G+ Formula E cars, set by Dean Donaldson, proved to be a challenging but rewarding class for the drivers. After seven hard-fought segments, the results were incredibly close, especially at the top.

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 78 55 530.421
2 Dustin Jolley 78 53 569.486
3 Dean Donaldson 76 53 541.805
4 Jerry Pearson 73 47 581.999
5 Eric Lane 72 41 573.632
6 Tracker Clay 69 38 595.460
7 Tom Warren 67 42 569.505

Dustin Jolley (Team Jolley) drove an outstanding race, matching the leader in laps but ultimately finishing second by points. Dean Donaldson (Full-Speed Racing) also had a strong showing, demonstrating why these cars are his “set.” The returning drivers, Jerry Pearson (Hairball Racing) and Eric Lane (Fast Lane Racing), quickly found their rhythm, securing solid mid-pack finishes. Tom Warren from Castro Valley showcased excellent adaptability in his debut, earning valuable points.

Photos for Race 1

Event Photo for Race 1

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 201_Sep-05-2026_SR3RoadCourseTightEsses.html

Race 2: Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan

Track: Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course
Class: Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan
Date: Sep-05-2026 13:34

The second race moved to the Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course, featuring the Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan class. These lightweight cars demand precision and control, and the drivers certainly delivered.

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 80 61 350.294
2 Dustin Jolley 79 61 321.788
3 Dean Donaldson 76 48 342.139
4 Eric Lane 74 44 346.533
5 Jerry Pearson 69 38 330.651
6 Tracker Clay 67 36 355.894
7 Tom Warren 65 41 356.846

Dustin Jolley (Team Jolley) once again proved to be a formidable contender, finishing second by a single lap, but tying for points with the leader. His performance in this class was a highlight of the day. Dean Donaldson (Full-Speed Racing) secured another podium finish, showcasing his versatility across different car classes. Eric Lane (Fast Lane Racing) and Jerry Pearson (Hairball Racing) continued their strong return, demonstrating that their time away hasn’t diminished their racing prowess. Tom Warren (Castro Valley) maintained his consistent performance, adapting well to the different track and car dynamics.

Photos for Race 2

Event Photo for Race 2

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 90_Sep-05-2026_StewartRacewayIIStraightRoadCourse.html

Race 3: Tyco 440-X2 Wide-Pan Porche 935 Hardbody (i) Jolle

Track: SR3 Road Course Tight Esses
Class: Tyco 440-X2 Wide-Pan Porche 935 Hardbody (i) Jolle
Date: Sep-05-2026 15:06

The final race of the Fall Season Opener brought us back to the SR3 Road Course Tight Esses, this time with the classic Tyco 440-X2 Wide-Pan Porche 935 Hardbody cars. This class often highlights driver skill over raw speed, with its unique handling characteristics.

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 78 58 773.201
2 Dustin Jolley 73 52 760.596
3 Dean Donaldson 73 51 773.823
4 Tracker Clay 67 40 851.501
5 Tom Warren 66 34 830.853

Dustin Jolley (Team Jolley) secured another strong second place, tying in laps with Dean Donaldson (Full-Speed Racing) but pulling ahead on points for a well-deserved second-place finish. Dean Donaldson’s performance was consistent, placing him firmly in third. Tom Warren (Castro Valley) continued to impress with his steady driving, adapting well to a different car class on the SR3 track, finishing a respectable fifth.

Photos for Race 3

Event Photo for Race 3

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 203_Sep-05-2026_SR3RoadCourseTightEsses.html

New Track Records

The Fall Season Opener was not just about fierce competition; it was also a day for etching new names into the Stewart Raceway history books! A remarkable number of new track records were set, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of our drivers.

Track Class Lane Driver Date Lap Time Record Type
Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan 1 Dustin Jolley 2026-09-05 3.664s Race
Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan 2 Dustin Jolley 2026-09-05 3.443s Race
Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan 3 Steve Stewart 2026-09-05 3.551s Race
Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan 4 Steve Stewart 2026-09-05 3.665s Race
SR3 Road Course Tight Esses Mega G+ 1.7 Formula E Cars (Dean Set) 2 Dustin Jolley 2026-09-05 5.713s Race
SR3 Road Course Tight Esses Mega G+ 1.7 Formula E Cars (Dean Set) 3 Steve Stewart 2026-09-05 5.863s Race
SR3 Road Course Tight Esses Mega G+ 1.7 Formula E Cars (Dean Set) 4 Dustin Jolley 2026-09-05 5.875s Race
SR3 Road Course Tight Esses Mega G+ 1.7 Formula E Cars (Dean Set) 5 Dean Donaldson 2026-09-05 5.878s Race
SR3 Road Course Tight Esses Tyco 440-X2 Wide-Pan Porche 935 Hardbody (i) Jolle 2 Steve Stewart 2026-09-05 7.464s Race
SR3 Road Course Tight Esses Tyco 440-X2 Wide-Pan Porche 935 Hardbody (i) Jolle 3 Dustin Jolley 2026-09-26 6.657s Race
SR3 Road Course Tight Esses Tyco 440-X2 Wide-Pan Porche 935 Hardbody (i) Jolle 4 Steve Stewart 2026-09-05 7.590s Race
SR3 Road Course Tight Esses Tyco 440-X2 Wide-Pan Porche 935 Hardbody (i) Jolle 5 Steve Stewart 2026-09-05 7.364s Race

Dustin Jolley (Team Jolley) demonstrated incredible speed, setting multiple new track records in both the Viper V-SPEC Lite Lexan and the Mega G+ Formula E classes. Dean Donaldson (Full-Speed Racing) also etched his name into the record books, proving his mastery of the Mega G+ cars. These achievements are a testament to the skill and competitive spirit of our racing community!

Stewart Raceway continues to be a vibrant hub for slot car enthusiasts, with a rich history of racing and camaraderie. Events like these further build upon that legacy, creating new memories and setting new benchmarks for performance. We look forward to many more exciting races and the return of all our valued drivers in the future!

⚠️ This report was primarily generated by an AI model.

Overall Standings by Division – September 6, 2026

This report summarizes the overall performance from the Fall Season Opener, categorizing drivers by their respective divisions.

Master Division Standings

Name Laps Points
Steve Stewart 236 174
Dustin Jolley 230 166
Dean Donaldson 225 152
Jerry Pearson 142 85

Analysis:
The Master Division saw intense competition, with several veteran drivers pushing the limits. Dustin Jolley (Team Jolley) delivered a stellar performance, securing a strong second place overall with an impressive 230 laps and 166 points, demonstrating consistent speed and strategic driving. Dean Donaldson (Full-Speed Racing) also showed his class, rounding out the top three overall with 225 laps and 152 points, a testament to his continued prowess on the track. A particularly welcome sight was the return of Jerry Pearson (Pearson Racing) to Stewart Raceway after a long layoff. His driving was solid, completing 142 laps and scoring 85 points, a promising start back into the competitive slot car scene. Track owner Steve Stewart finished first in the division, but the spotlight truly shone on the competitive depth displayed by the field.

Advanced Division Standings

Name Laps Points
Eric Lane 146 85

Analysis:
The Advanced Division saw a significant return with Eric Lane (Fast Lane Racing) gracing Stewart Raceway once more after a considerable hiatus. Eric immediately demonstrated that he hasn’t lost his touch, putting in a commendable performance with 146 laps and 85 points. His return is a fantastic addition to the racing community, and we eagerly anticipate seeing more of his “Fast Lane Racing” style in future events.

Amateur Division Standings

Name Laps Points
Tracker Clay 203 114
Tom Warren 198 117

Analysis:
The Amateur Division delivered some truly exciting racing, highlighted by impressive lap counts from its competitors. Tracker Clay led the division with an outstanding 203 laps and 114 points, showing remarkable consistency and speed for an amateur driver. Close behind was our latest visitor, Tom Warren, all the way from Castro Valley. Tom made an immediate impact with a solid driving performance, completing 198 laps and remarkably earning more points (117) than Tracker, indicating strategic lane choices and clean racing. His debut was nothing short of impressive, and we hope this isn’t the last we see of Tom at Stewart Raceway!

Junior Division Standings

There were no Junior Division drivers participating in the Fall Season Opener according to the provided race results.

⚠️ End of AI‑generated content.

Thursday Night “Under The Lights” Round 5 Finale

⚠️ This report was primarily generated by an AI model.

Thursday Night “Under The Lights” Round 5 Finale

Date: August 27, 2026

The roar of tiny engines once again filled the air at Stewart Raceway for the highly anticipated Thursday Night “Under The Lights” Round 5 Finale! With the tension palpable and the competition fiercer than ever, drivers pushed their late-model NASCAR themed slot cars to the absolute limit across both the high-speed SR3 Oval Super Speedway and the challenging Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course. Tonight delivered a spectacular display of skill, strategy, and pure racing passion, with records falling and new champions emerging under the bright lights. The camaraderie, as always, was as exceptional as the racing, with fantastic food and shared delights making for another memorable evening.

Overall Event Summary

The cumulative results from a thrilling night of racing showcased consistency and raw speed. Drivers tackled four different classes across two distinct tracks, vying for overall supremacy. Team Jolley’s Dustin Jolley, Dean Donaldson, and Steve Stewart consistently battled at the front, demonstrating exceptional control and pace throughout the evening.

Here’s a look at the overall standings from a night packed with high-octane action:

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 271 194 1617.155
2 Dustin Jolley 260 182 1570.910
3 Dean Donaldson 264 180 1613.864
4 Joe Clarke 123 60 1008.738

Team Jolley’s Dustin Jolley delivered a stellar performance, securing an impressive 260 laps and 182 points, demonstrating his prowess across various car classes and track configurations. Dean Donaldson of Full-Speed Racing also showed remarkable consistency, racking up 264 laps and 180 points, narrowly missing out on a higher overall points finish due to Dustin’s strong showing.

Race 1: SR3 Oval Super Speedway – MG+ 1.5 Midget (i)

The evening kicked off on the SR3 Oval Super Speedway with the MG+ 1.5 Midget (i) class. This race was a tight battle, with drivers quickly finding their rhythm on the high-speed oval. Dustin Jolley (Team Jolley) showed his potential early, securing a fastest lap of 3.879s in Segment 2. Dean Donaldson (Full-Speed Racing) also demonstrated his speed with a 4.001s fastest lap in Segment 2.

The final standings reflected a hard-fought contest:

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 78 55 549.148
2 Dean Donaldson 76 54 505.010
3 Dustin Jolley 72 47 505.752
4 Joe Clarke 65 32 518.183

Despite not winning the overall segment points, Steve Stewart clinched victory by the narrowest of margins in terms of laps, showcasing his consistent performance across all lanes. Dean Donaldson and Dustin Jolley were hot on his heels, promising a night of incredibly close racing. Joe Clarke held his own, securing valuable laps and points.

Event Photo for Race 1

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 197_Aug-27-2026_SR3OvalSuperSpeedway.html

Race 2: Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course – MegaG+ 1.7 Lites (Support Class)

The action moved to the Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course for the MegaG+ 1.7 Lites support class. This technical track tested drivers’ precision and car control. Dustin Jolley demonstrated exceptional skill, consistently setting rapid lap times, including a 4.334s fastest lap in Segment 2. Dean Donaldson and Steve Stewart also showed great pace, trading fastest laps.

Here are the final results for Race 2:

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 79 51 472.367
2 Dean Donaldson 78 53 470.291
3 Dustin Jolley 77 56 458.038
4 Joe Clarke 58 28 490.555

This race was another nail-biter! Steve Stewart edged out his rivals by a single lap to take the win, but Dustin Jolley’s consistency earned him the highest points in this race. Dean Donaldson once again proved to be a formidable competitor, securing second place in laps and points. Joe Clarke continued his campaign, adapting to the road course challenges.

Event Photo for Race 2

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 84_Aug-27-2026_StewartRacewayIIStraightRoadCourse.html

Race 3: Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course – Viper V-SPEC L4 NASCAR Team Jolley

Back on the road course, the Viper V-SPEC L4 NASCAR Team Jolley class brought a new level of excitement. This race saw fierce competition, with Dean Donaldson displaying an incredible burst of speed in the final segment, securing a fastest lap of 3.818s. Dustin Jolley of Team Jolley also impressed with a 3.670s fastest lap in Segment 2, showcasing his prowess with these powerful machines.

The final results are as follows:

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Dean Donaldson 55 40 332.099
2 Steve Stewart 54 40 305.128
3 Dustin Jolley 52 40 308.228

Dean Donaldson secured a well-deserved victory in this tight contest, tying with Steve Stewart and Dustin Jolley on points but leading in laps. The competition was so close that all three top drivers finished with 40 points, highlighting the immense skill and consistency required to excel in this class.

Event Photo for Race 3

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 87_Aug-27-2026_StewartRacewayIIStraightRoadCourse.html

Race 4: SR3 Oval Super Speedway – MegaG 1.7 Whelen/SK Modifieds (i)

The final race of the night returned to the SR3 Oval Super Speedway with the powerful MegaG 1.7 Whelen/SK Modifieds (i). These cars are known for their speed, and the drivers did not disappoint. Steve Stewart, Dustin Jolley, and Dean Donaldson once again dominated the field, each pushing their limits. Steve Stewart set an impressive 3.391s fastest lap in the final segment, showing incredible speed. Dustin Jolley also showcased blistering pace with a 3.555s fastest lap in Segment 2.

The final standings for Race 4 were:

Place Name Laps Points Total Time
1 Steve Stewart 60 48 290.512
2 Dustin Jolley 59 39 298.892
3 Dean Donaldson 55 33 306.464

Steve Stewart claimed his second victory of the night, leading in both laps and points. Dustin Jolley continued his strong performance with a solid second place, just one lap behind. Dean Donaldson secured third, rounding out a consistently strong showing across the entire event.

View Detailed Race Report: RaceReport_ 199_Aug-27-2026_SR3OvalSuperSpeedway.html

New Track Records

An extraordinary night of racing led to several new track records being set, highlighting the exceptional performance of the drivers and the perfectly tuned machines. These record-breaking runs underscore the escalating competitiveness at Stewart Raceway!

Track Class Lane Driver Date Time Laps/Distance Lap Time Type
SR3 Oval Super Speedway MG+ 1.5 Midget (i) 2 Steve Stewart 2026-08-27 20:00 38.406 2694 Race
SR3 Oval Super Speedway MG+ 1.5 Midget (i) 3 Dustin Jolley 2026-08-27 20:00 37.3578 3883 Race
SR3 Oval Super Speedway MG+ 1.5 Midget (i) 4 Dean Donaldson 2026-08-27 20:00 37.1015 4001 Race
SR3 Oval Super Speedway MG+ 1.5 Midget (i) 5 Steve Stewart 2026-08-27 20:00 36.4492 3924 Race
Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course Viper V-SPEC L4 NASCAR Team Jolley 2 Steve Stewart 2026-08-27 22:02 69.82 4028 Race
Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course Viper V-SPEC L4 NASCAR Team Jolley 3 Dustin Jolley 2026-08-27 22:02 69.82 3670 Race
Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course Viper V-SPEC L4 NASCAR Team Jolley 4 Dustin Jolley 2026-08-27 22:02 69.82 3842 Race

It’s a testament to the skill present that Dustin Jolley (Team Jolley) set multiple new track records, showcasing incredible speed on both the oval and road courses. His 3.883s lap on the SR3 Oval and 3.670s and 3.842s laps on the Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course are particularly noteworthy. Dean Donaldson (Full-Speed Racing) also contributed to the record books with a fantastic 4.001s lap on the SR3 Oval. These achievements highlight the relentless pursuit of perfection by these top-tier drivers.

Concluding Thoughts

The Thursday Night “Under The Lights” Round 5 Finale was an incredible showcase of late-model NASCAR themed slot car racing. The intense competition, coupled with the convivial atmosphere, reinforced why these events are a highlight for all participants. From the lightning-fast laps on the SR3 Oval to the technical precision required on the Stewart Raceway II Straight Road Course, every race delivered thrilling moments and exceptional driving.

The shared delights and camaraderie were, as always, excellent, fostering a welcoming environment for both seasoned veterans and aspiring racers. The excitement for Thursday Nights Under the Lights shall continue, promising more high-speed thrills and unforgettable moments in the future!

Overall Summer Series Final Standings (August 28, 2026)

Division Standings

Master Division

Name Laps Points
Steve Stewart 1815 1014
Dustin Jolley 1771 920
Dean Donaldson 1768 920
John Rogers 1576 838
Cece Caro 1467 670
Joe Clarke 1043 399
Kevin Webster 653 248

Advanced Division

Name Laps Points
Andy Gersh 757 352

Amateur Division

Name Laps Points
Tracker Clay 447 119
Trakker Clay 148 74
Rad Raca 123 68
Bobby Graham 118 70

Junior Division

No drivers recorded in this division for the Summer Series Final Standings.

 

Google Photos from the Event (Additional)

Event Photo

⚠️ End of AI‑generated content.

The Crash

In the final race of July 30’s “Under the Lights” event, a significant crash occurred as drivers exited Turn 4 on the SR3 Oval in Segment 5. This crash impacted literally every driver in that segment.

During the crash, the deslotted car in the Blue lane passed under the scoring gantry on its lid, triggering a lap for the driver in the White lane. While still spinning, the car was hit at full speed by the car actually in the White lane, causing that car to de-slot and come to a stop on the Orange lane. That car was then plowed into by the car in the Orange lane at full speed.  All of this occurred before the race director halted the race and cut the power.

A lot of very impactful things happened as a result of the Blue lane car deslotting:

      1. The Blue lane did not get their lap.
      2. The spinning Blue lane car triggered an early record lap for the White lane driver.
      3. The White lane car crashed hard into the slowly but still spinning Blue lane car and de-slotted, coming to a stop in the middle of the Orange lane.
      4. The Orange lane and Green lane cars both picked up a lap during the crash.
      5. The Orange lane car then slammed into the White Lane car and also de-slotted with an “Out-of-body” experience.

All the above things happened before the power was cut and the segment halted.

As the HOPRA rules below have long supported, the expectation of most drivers present was to allow the Blue lane car to regain its “missed” lap by placing the crashed car behind the scoring gantry, near where it de-slotted, and restarting. Which, as you can see in the video, was attempted.

However, the Orange and Green lane drivers disagreed with the expectation that the Blue lane car should be allowed to regain the lap it had lost.

The general consensus was pretty much a toss-up, and the track owner decided not to count the lap, and the segment and race continued. Of course, the Blue lane driver and others were not pleased with the decision.

The track owner’s reasoning was that allowing the Blue lane car to get the lap back essentially negated any negative impact on the crashing driver while significantly negatively impacting all the other drivers.

Key HOPRA Rule on Missed Laps / De-SlotsFrom HOPRA Racing Rules and Procedures (section covering de-slots and lap counting):

      • The only penalty for a de-slot (car coming out of the slot) is the time lost while a marshal replaces it.
      • A driver shall not be penalized a loss of lap(s) if their car misses the lap counter due to a de-slot or improper marshalling.
      • A driver shall not gain a lap if another car passes over their lap counter for the same reason.
      • Recognition of a missed (or extra) lap must come from an official marshal or Race Director.
      • If a car misses the counter, the Race Director adds the deserved lap to the driver’s total during or at the end of the segment.
      • If a track marshal verifies a missed or added lap, they notify the Race Director to correct the count.

In short, missed laps caused by de-slots or marshaling errors are corrected (added back) rather than left as permanent penalties. The time cost of being off-track is considered sufficient.

The keywords in the HOPRA rules are “The time cost of being off-track is considered sufficient.” In this case, there would be no time cost. Only the laps lost and the distance lost by all three of the other drivers who did not crash.

I’m sure this type of incident has been encountered before and will certainly happen again. To avoid future frustration and anger, a specific rule will be created to properly address this type of situation going forward.

View the video on Rumble here.

Just before this final race got underway, I was thinking to myself how much fun it has been racing with the Thursday Night “Under the Lights” bunch.

It is not fun when folks leave Stewart Raceway angry and/or frustrated.