7:34
7:34
That will conclude tonight’s Trackside Now coverage of the ACT Invitational from New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Congratulations to Wayne Helliwell, Jr. on his first career win in this prestigious event.

Thank you to everyone who tuned in tonight and we hope you can make it out to the Milk Bowl with us on October 4 at Thunder Road.

Your Speed51.com crew here this weekend has been Bob Dillner, Brandon Paul, Rob Blount, and Brenda Meserve.

Have a good night, everyone.
7:32
According to ACT president Tom Curley, because ACT goes back to the last official lap for timing and scoring, all cars involved in the lap 45 incident will finish in the position they were in prior to the final restart.
7:31
Helliwell on the closing laps:

“It was getting dark and it was getting dark quick,” said Helliwell. “The lift points, or at least for me, were visual markings kind of on like corner entry. I didn’t want to go back racing. You don’t want to drive into the turn at 140 miles per hour and I’m not going to lift and he’s not going to lift. We’re both going to crash. It’s the best thing they could have done. I’m sure it was hard for Tom (Curley) to pull the plug, but ultimately I think it was the best decision.”
7:18
Comment From scott

THANK YOU FOR THE GREAT COVERAGE, patrick beattie was unable to go because of a family commitment, i was filling him what was happening here 🙂

7:07
The results are unofficial, Dan. We are unaware how ACT will score the final lap where the race was cancelled. An official finish has not yet been released.
7:07
Comment From Dan

So Brian Hoar and the others involved in the big wreck don’t drop to the bottom of the standings behind cars NOT in the wreck?

7:06
Time for a few photos in victory lane. (Speed51.com photo)
7:06
Jeff White, Brian Hoar, Todd Davis, and Tyler Cahoon have all been released from the infield care center.
7:05
In victory lane the right front tire on Wayne Helliwell\’s car is flat. (Speed51.com photo)
7:04
That\’s one happy team in victory lane. (Speed51.com photo)
7:02
Wayne Helliwell Jr. celebrates in victory lane. (Speed51.com photo)
7:01
ACT Invitational Unofficial Results

1 27nh Wayne Helliwell, Jr.
2 91qc Patrick Laperle
3 17ma Eddie MacDonald
4 97nh Joey Polewarczyk, Jr.
5 48qc Alex Labbe
6 58vt Jimmy Hebert
7 7me Glen Luce
8 16me Travis Stearns
9 16vt Scott Dragon
10 07ma Tom Carey, Jr.
11 4ny Brandon Atkins
12 8nh Guy Caron
13 34nh Todd Davis
14 29nh Aaron Fellows
15 37t Brian Hoar
16 38vt Tyler Cahoon
17 50me Jeff White
18 17ri Jeff White
19 88vt Jason Corliss
20 9me Aaron Fellows
21 91ct Larry Gelinas
22 19qc Dany Trepanier
23 9vt Chip Grenier
24 84qc Martin Latulippe
25 9ma Brian Tagg
26 15me Ben Ashline
27 20nh Taylor Martin
28 78qc Stephane Decoste
29 28me Rowland Robinson, Jr.
30 11ny Josh Masterson
31 11nh Brett Gervais
32 66vt Jason Corliss
33 77ma Jimmy Linardy
34 49nh Matt Anderson
35 10vt Josh Demers
36 10ma John Falconi
37 9nh Kyle Welch
38 41vt Jamie Aube
39 5ri Rich Staskowski
40 3vt Rick Roberts
41 99vt Cody Blake
42 15vt Joey Laquerre
43 41qc Jonathan Bouvrette
6:56
Helliwell\’s crew chief Bruce Bernhardt celebrates a victory. (Speed51.com photo)
6:55
The race is complete with 44 of 50 laps complete.
6:54
CHECKERED FLAG: Wayne Helliwell, Jr. has been declared the winner of the ACT Invitational due to the visibility here at the track.
6:54
The top two roll off after the red. (Speed51.com photo)
6:54
Ray Parent has right front damage from the incident on the backstretch.
6:53
YELLOW FLAG: The red flag has been lifted.
6:52
Multiple drivers are telling officials that it’s too dark. We’ll await word on ACT’s decision.
6:52
If they can restart the race, ACT officials say that it will be a green-white-checkered finish.
6:51
Damage to Josh Masterson\’s car. (Speed51.com photo)
6:50

EmilyPackard9@EmilyPackard9

Lap 44 and Emily was caught up in a big wreck on the backstretch. She is ok, will advise on the car shortly as… fb.me/6Nud5O8dQ
6:50
Damage to Rowland Robinson\’s car. (Speed51.com photo)
6:50
6:49
Taylor Martin and Jeff White are also involved.
6:48
Brian Hoar has radioed to his team that he is ok.
6:48
Ben Ashline, Matt Anderson, Josh Masterson, and Rowland Robinson, Jr. are all involved.
6:47
RED FLAG; Huge pileup on the backstretch. Brian Hoar, Chip Grenier, Emily Packard, Ray Parent, Stephane Decoste, Tyler Cahoon, and Todd Davis are all involved.
6:46
GREEN FLAG: Helliwell with another good restart. MacDonald tries to work under Laperle for second.
6:45
Lights are out on the pace car. Green flag next time by.
6:45
Over the radio, Wayne Helliwell says, “I’m not a baby, but it’s getting dark. I’m having a hard time hitting my marks (on the track).”
6:42
YELLOW FLAG (Lap 44): Debris on the race track.
6:42
Lap 44: Helliwell continues to lead by about six car-lengths. MacDonald holds a two car-length advantage over Pole for third.
6:41
Lap 42: Heavy smoke from Falconi’s No. 10. He gets to the apron and we stay green.
6:40
Tire guy Nate Brown keeps an eye on Joey Pole\’s strong run. (Speed51.com photo)
6:40
Lap 42: Laperle continues to close in on Helliwell up front. The advantage is about six car-lengths now.
6:40
Lap 41: Stearns and Luce side-by-side for seventh.
6:40
Lap 40: Laperle is slowly closing in on Helliwell. The gap is about nine car-lengths.
6:39
Lap 39: Kyle Welch to pit road. Aube is now being pushed behind the wall.
6:39
Lap 38: Helliwell leads Laperle, MacDonald, Polewarczyk, and Luce.
6:38
Lap 37: Jamie Aube to pit road. his crew is replacing the right front tire.
6:38
Lap 37: Polewarczyk gets around Luce for fourth. Stearns will try to follow.
6:38
Lap 36: MacDonald and Luce side-by-side for third. Pole and Stearns side-by-side for fifth.
6:37
Lap 35: Polewarczyk under Stearns for fifth. The battle is on for the position with Pole holding a slight advantage.
6:37
Eddie MacDonald\’s crew chief Rollie Lachance watches the laps tick away. (Speed51.com photo)
6:36
Lap 34: Polewarczyk is now closing in on the top-five as MacDonald and Luce battle in front of Stearns.
6:36
Lap 33: MacDonald is doing all he can to try to take third away from Luce. They’re side-by-side off of turn four. MacDonald isn’t able to keep the momentum and make it stick on the bottom.
6:35
Lap 31: Helliwell leads Laperle, Luce, MacDonald, and Stearns. Polewarczyk, Dragon, Labbe, Hebert, and Atkins complete the top-10.
6:35
Comment From NM fan

GO GLen Luce!!!!

6:34
Lap 30: Dragon and Labbe side-by-side for sixth. Pole goes three-wide off of turn four and takes the spot.
6:34
Helliwell\’s crew chief Bruce Bernhardt watches the big screen and their big lead. (Speed51.com photo)
6:34
Lap 29: Helliwell is once again checking out from the field. Laperle has also created a sizable advantage over Luce in third.
6:33
Lap 27: Stearns, MacDonald, and Luce battle three-wide for third. Luce comes off of turn four with the advantage. MacDonald takes fourth from Stearns.
6:32
GREEN FLAG: Helliwell gets another good restart and leads the field into turn one. Luce again tries to battle Laperle for second. They’re side-by-side down the backstretch. They stay that way as they come back towards the stripe.
6:30
It is beginning to get dark here at the track. New Hampshire Motor Speedway does not have lights, so the intensity could be high on these restarts knowing that the event could end early.
6:30
6:29
Josh Masterson\’s team tweaks on the sway bar. (Speed51.com photo)
6:28
Comment From Marvin

Thank you speed 51 for the coverage

6:28
YELLOW FLAG (Lap 25): Ricky Roberts, Kyle Welch, and Rich Staskowski are involved in an incident on the backstretch.
6:27
GREEN FLAG: Helliwell with a big jump on the restart. Luce now looks to the inside of Laperle. MacDonald gets by Stearns for fourth.
6:26
Comment From pierre

lets go alex …….

6:26
Comment From MARTIN

GO LAPERLE

6:26
Current Top-20 (25 of 50 laps complete)

1 27nh Wayne Helliwell, Jr.
2 91qc Patrick Laperle
3 7me Glen Luce
4 16me Travis Stearns
5 17ma Eddie MacDonald
6 4ny Brandon Atkins
7 38vt Tyler Cahoon
8 16vt Scott Dragon
9 97vt Joey Polewarczyk, Jr.
10 48vt Alex Labbe
11 58vt Jimmy Hebert
12 8nh Guy Caron
13 07ma Tom Carey, Jr.
14 91ct Larry Gelinas
15 9me Emily Packard
16 34nh Todd Davis
17 19qc Dany Trepanier
18 50me Jeff White
19 66vt Jason Corliss
20 29nh Aaron Fellows
6:26
Ben Ashline\’s team made adjustments to his number-15. (Speed51.com photo)
6:24
Comment From Milton Steve

The Dragon Wagon 16vt YES..he’s coming

6:23
Helliwell was all alone before the caution. (Speed51.com photo)
6:23
Comment From Donald

Go Go les Quebecois !!! Laperle est toujours là…et Labbé s’en viens !!!! Lachez las les gars !!!

6:23
YELLOW FLAG (Lap 25): Jimmy Linardy spins in the middle of turns one and two.
6:22
HALFWAY: 2012 and 2013 ACT champion Wayne Helliwell, Jr. leads the way.
6:22
Lap 24: Helliwell has a double-digit car-length lead over Laperle up front.
6:21
Comment From Boss

Good luck Labbé 48QC !

6:21
Lap 23: Stearns peaks a nose to the inside of Luce down the backstreetch for third, but can’t make it work that time.
6:21
Nick Sweet in the 88 battling for position. (Speed51.com photo)
6:21
6:20
Lap 22: Polewarczyk makes it three-wide with Labbe and Gelinas to take the ninth spot.
6:20
Lap 21: Helliwell leads Laperle, Luce, Stearns, and MacDonald. Atkins, Cahoon, Dragon, Labbe, and Gelinas complete the top-10.
6:19
Lap 20: Give Laperle the second spot. He’ll now try to chase down Helliwell for the lead.
6:19
Lap 19: Laperle to the inside of Stearns in turn three to take away the third spot. He now closes in on Luce for second.
6:18
Lap 18: Laperle has been able to get by MacDonald and Atkins for the fourth spot. “The Grand Laperle” is on the move.
6:18
Comment From Guest

Keep that 7L in the lead for all 50 laps, Glen!

6:18
Lap 17: Stearns now looks to complete the pass on Luce for second, but Atkins is right there challenging Stearns for third.
6:18
Eddie MacDonald\’s 17 is moving thru the field. (Speed51.com photo)
6:18
Lap 16: Cody Blake is off the pace on the inside of the track.
6:17
Lap 16: Helliwell tries again coming off of turn two. He gets a better run that time down the backstretch and he’s able to complete the pass off of turn four. Helliwell is your new leader.
6:17
Lap 15: Helliwell is putting the pressure on Luce. They’re side-by-side through turn two. Wheel-to-wheel down the backstretch. Helliwell on the inside, Luce on the outside. Luce leads that time by.
6:16
GREEN FLAG: A much better restart this time by. They’re even across the line and Luce has the advantage into turn one. Helliwell dives under Stearns to take second down the backstretch.
6:15
Comment From Guest

Go le grwand Lapearle 91

6:15
Comment From Guest

GO GO GO Laperle 91

6:15
GREEN FLAG/YELLOW FLAG: Luce a little bit too trigger happy. Everybody is forced to check up on the frontstretch.
6:15
Brian Hoar made a pitstop under caution. (Speed51.com photo)
6:14
Sway bar adjustment for Chip Grenier. (Speed51.com photo)
6:14
Current Top-10 (13 of 50 laps complete)

1 7me Glen Luce
2 16me Travis Stearns
3 27nh Wayne Helliwell, Jr.
4 4ny Brandon Atkins
5 17ma Eddie MacDonald
6 91ct Larry Gelinas
7 34nh Todd Davis
8 9me Emily Packard
9 91qc Patrick Laperle
10 38vt Tyler Cahoon
11 48qc Alex Labbe
12 58vt Jimmy Hebert
13 8nh Guy Caron
14 97nh Joey Polewarczyk, Jr.
15 11vt Josh Masterson
16 16vt Scott Dragon
17 99vt Cody Blake
18 07ma Tom Carey, Jr.
19 19qc Dany Trepanier
20 66vt Jason Corliss
6:13
Jamie Aube pitted under caution. (Speed51.com photo)
6:12
Brian Hoar comes to pit road. He’s joined by Roberts, Linardy, and Aube.
6:11
There is plenty of action throughout the pack. (Speed51.com photo)
6:10
YELLOW FLAG (Lap 15): Martin Latulippe spins in turn four.
6:09
Lap 13: Helliwell clears Atkins for third. He’ll now try to erase a half-straightaway advantage between himself and the leaders.
6:09
Comment From Guest

#41 Aube, Let’s go!!

6:09
Glen Luce has the lead… For now. (Speed51.com photo)
6:08
Lap 12: MacDonald dives down to the inside Gelinas in turn three. He takes fifth.
6:08
Lap 11: The top-two have checked out as Helliwell and Atkins battle for third.
6:08
Lap 10: Helliwell is closing in on Atkins. Davis to the outside of Packard for sixth. MacDonald takes seventh from Packard.
6:07
6:07
Lap 9: Luce continues to lead Stearns by three car-lengths. Atkins is third. Helliwell and Gelinas complete the top-five.
6:06
Lap 8: Helliwell under Packard for sixth. He splits Davis and Gelinas to take the fourth spot in turn four.
6:05
Lap 7: Labbe and MacDonald are charging towards the front. MacDonald just cracked the top-10, while Labbe runs 12th.
6:05
Lap 6: Luce leads Stearns, Atkins, Gelinas, and Davis. Packard, Blake, Helliwell, Cahoon, and Masterson complete the top-10.
6:04
Lap 5: Luce leads Stearns by about two car-lengths up front.
6:04
Lap 4: Helliwell is on a mission. He cracks the top-10 after starting 16th.
6:04
Lap 3: Atkins and Gelinas remain door-to-door with Atkins holding a slight advantage.
6:03
Lap 2: Stearns is all over Luce off of turn two. Atkins to the inside of Gelinas for third. They’re side-by-side.
6:03
GREEN FLAG: Luce with a great start on the inside. Gelinas will look to take second away from Stearns heading into turn one. Sterans fights back and keeps the spot. Packard and Davis side-by-side for fifth.
6:02
Comment From Guest

Make it #4 Eddie Mac!

6:02
Joey Pole\’s 97 under caution. (Speed51.com photo)
6:01
The signal from the starter is one to go. Green flag next time by.
6:00
Aaron Fellows has brought the No. 29 to pit road during this caution.
5:58
Comment From Steve

Scott Dragon- my hometown dude and a famous Dragon Family Member go go go

5:57
Wreck on the front stretch. (Speed51.com photo)
5:56
Laquerre was able to drive his machine into the pit area, while Bouvrette will go away on the hook.
5:55
The start of the race. (Speed51.com photo)
5:55
Comment From WIMP gang

Good luck Tyler! Give Em hell

5:54
YELLOW FLAG (Lap 1); Laquerre and Bouvrette come together on the frontstretch. Heavy damage to the front of Laquerre and Bouvrette’s car.
5:54
Lap 1: Luce leads lap number one. Stearns is second as Gelinas and Packard battle for third.
5:53
GREEN FLAG: Luce powers to the inside of Stearns and Packard into turn one. They go three-wide and Luce takes the lead.
5:53
Comment From Kris from ME

Go Eddie!!! Get win #4!!!

5:52
Today’s race is 50 green flag laps.
5:52
Comment From Guest

how many laps

5:52
Lights are out. Green flag next time by. Stearns and Packard will lead the field to green.
5:51
All of the fans that were here for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race have stuck around to watch the ACT race. The three and four-wide action through the turn offers fans a unique experience here at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
5:50
5:50
Today’s coverage of the ACT Invitational at New Hampshire Motor Speedway is presented by JOES Racing Products. Based in Everett, Washington, JOES Racing Products was started in 1989 by racer Joe Constance, for racers. Our company reflects an extension of the Constance Racing Family with racers on our staff that are competitive and know quality parts and why they work well. Check out their variety of products available for racers today. Click here to find a dealer near you today!
5:50
The field is doubled up, but the lights remain on the pace car.
5:48
Battle flags are being displayed by the pit crews as cars make their way down the frontstretch.
5:46
The field is rolling on “The Magic Mile.”
5:45
Engines have fired on the frontstretch.
5:42
Eddie MacDonald enters today’s event as a three-time winner of the ACT Invitational. Joey Polewarczyk won in 2010 and Ray Parent won in 2012.
5:41
Pre-race ceremonies are underway.
5:36
ACT Late Model have rolled onto the race track for driver introductions.
5:35
Bond ACT Invitational Starting Lineup:

Pos. No. Driver Hometown
1 16ME Travis Stearns Auburn, ME
2 9ME Emily Packard East Montpelier, VT
3 7ME Glen Luce Turner, ME
4 91CT Larry Gelinas Buxton, ME
5 4NY Brandon Atkins Au Sable Forks, NY
6 38VT Tyler Cahoon St. Johnsbury, VT
7 34NH Todd Davis Claremont, NH
8 99VT Cody Blake Barre, VT
9 11NY Josh Masterson Charlotte, VT
10 66VT Jason Corliss Barre, VT
11 9NH Kyle Welch Newport, NH
12 16VT Scott Dragon Colchester, VT
13 9VT Chip Grenier Graniteville, VT
14 28ME Rowland Robinson Jr. Steuben, ME
15 15ME Ben Ashline Pittston, ME
16 27NH Wayne Helliwell Jr. Dover, NH
17 17MA Eddie MacDonald Rowley, MA
18 37VT Brian Hoar Willistown, VT
19 58VT Jimmy Hebert Williamstown, VT
20 48QC Alex Labbe Quebec, QC
21 8NH Guy Caron Lempster, NH
22 41VT Jamie Aube N. Ferrisburg, VT
23 97NH Joey Polewarczyk Jr. Hudson, NH
24 17RI Ray Parent Tiverton, RI
25 91QC Patrick Laperle St-Denis, QC
26 15VT Joey Laquerre East Montpelier, VT
27 41QC Jonathan Bouvrette Blainville, QC
28 19QC Dany Trepanier St-Edouard, QC
29 29NH Aaron Fellows Croyden, NH
30 88VT Nick Sweet Barre, VT
31 50ME Jeff White Winthrop, ME
32 84QC Martin Latulippe Vallee-Jonction, QC
33 07MA Tom Carey Jr. New Salem, MA
34 3VT Ricky Roberts Washington, VT
35 77MA Jimmy Linardy Somerville, MA
36 20NH Taylor Martin Windham, NH
37 49NH Matt Anderson Franklin, NH
38 78QC Stephane Descoste Oka, QC
39 5RI Richard Staskowski Hope Valley, RI
40 10MA John Falconi Oakham, MA
41 11NH Brett Gervais Island Pond, VT
42 10VT Josh Demers Middlesex, VT
43 9MA Brian Tagg Oxford, MA
5:34
The NWMT F.W. Webb 100 has come to an exciting end with Woody Pitkat in victory lane. The 6th Annual ACT Invitational is up next at “The Magic Mile.”
5:07
A green-white-checkered finish will decide the NWMT race after this nasty crash that ended with Ron Yuhas upside down on his roof. For more updates of that race, click the link above. (Jason Allison Photo)
3:12
We will be taking a break as we focus our attention on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour F.W. Webb 100. You can follow along with updates of that event here: http://speed51.com/race-cen…
3:03
3:00
Brandon Atkins, who calls Airborne Park Speedway (NY) home, will start from the fifth spot today. (Speed51.com Photo)
2:55
Comment From w.e.atkins

good luck Brandon Atkins and great crew

2:49
Dany Trepanier finished second in the Serie ACT championship standings. He’s looking to do one better here today. (Speed51.com Photo)
2:40
ACT Invitational Roster by State/Province:

Maine – Glen Luce, Ben Ashline, Travis Stearns, Rowland Robinson, Jr., Jeff White, Larry Gelinas

Massachusetts – Brian Tagg, John Falconi, Eddie MacDonald, Jimmy Linardy, Tom Carey, Jr.

New Hampshire – Guy Caron, Kyle Welch, Taylor Martin, Wayne Helliwell, Jr., Aaron Fellows, Todd Davis, Matt Anderson, Joey Polewarczyk, Jr.

New York – Brandon Atkins

Quebec – Dany Trepanier, Jonathan Bouvrette, Alex Labbe, Stephane Decoste, Martin Latulippe, Patrick Laperle

Rhode Island – Richard Staskowski, Ray Parent

Vermont – Ricky Roberts, Emily Packard, Chip Grenier, Josh Demers, Brett Gervais, Josh Masterson, Joey Laquerre, Scott Dragon, Brian Hoar, Tyler Cahoon, Jamie Aube, Jimmy Hebert, Jason Corliss, Nick Sweet, Cody Blake
2:31
2:27
Today’s posted awards are $80,985. The winner of the race will take home a minimum of $7,500. Nobody will go home with less than $1,040.
2:18
2013 Vermont Governor’s Cup winner Cody Blake is hoping for a strong run in his second career start at NHMS. (Speed51.com Photo)
2:06
90 of 175 laps in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series have been completed. There will be a 100-lap NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race and then the 50-lap Bond Auto ACT Invitational.
1:55
Martin Latulippe\’s crew looks over his car after setting fast time in practice. One change they made was additional lettering on the car. (Speed51.com Photo)
1:42
2012 ACT Invitational winner Ray Parent is all smiles as he watches the truck race. (Speed51.com Photo)
1:35
1:35
Today’s coverage of the ACT Invitational at New Hampshire Motor Speedway is presented by JOES Racing Products. Based in Everett, Washington, JOES Racing Products was started in 1989 by racer Joe Constance, for racers. Our company reflects an extension of the Constance Racing Family with racers on our staff that are competitive and know quality parts and why they work well. Check out their variety of products available for racers today. Click here to find a dealer near you today!
1:33
We’re in it for the long haul. Thank you for following along.
1:33
Comment From J5

Long long day. thanks for updates.

1:30
Fans make their way into New Hampshire Motor Speedway. (Speed51.com Photo)
1:17
1:17
Taylor Martin\’s crew looks under the hood of the No. 20. (Speed51.com Photo)
12:55
Tyler Cahoon works on his car after practice. (Speed51.com Photo)
12:48
12:44
Former Oxford 250 winner Larry Gelinas has raced all over New England, but today he’s making his first career start at NHMS. (Speed51.com Photo)
12:37
ACT Drivers on being able to showcase themselves at NHMS and potentially having the shot at a higher level of racing:

“My problem is I’m too old,” said Laperle with a laugh.

“There’s always hope,” said Polewarczyk. This is probably one of the biggest stages you can win on.”

Nick Sweet: “I think we really get to show what ACT is all about. I know this is a little bit out of our realm racing on a mile, but if you think this is exciting come watch the short track races because they are really exciting.”
12:28
Today’s ACT Invitational presents the biggest stage of the season for ACT Late Model stars in the Northeastern United States and Canada. A win in today’s race in front of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series fans and teams could be one of the biggest wins of a driver’s career.

Read more about what drivers had to say about the race on Speed51.com – http://speed51.com/act-late…
12:18
Taylor Martin is making her second career ACT Late Model start today. Her previous start was last year’s ACT Invitational. (Speed51.com Photo)
12:03
Recently crowned Serie ACT champion Alex Labbe is searching for his first ACT Invitational win today. He was P5 in practice. (Speed51.com Photo)
11:57
11:57
Today’s coverage of the ACT Invitational at New Hampshire Motor Speedway is presented by JOES Racing Products. Based in Everett, Washington, JOES Racing Products was started in 1989 by racer Joe Constance, for racers. Our company reflects an extension of the Constance Racing Family with racers on our staff that are competitive and know quality parts and why they work well. Check out their variety of products available for racers today. Click here to find a dealer near you today!
11:53
Looking back on practice times, one thing that sticks out is eight-time American-Canadian Tour champion Brian Hoar being last on the speed chart.

The reason?

“We had motor issues and never made a hot lap,” said Hoar in a text message to Speed51.com. “We thought it was a fouled plug at first but it ended up being a broke rocker, dropped push rod, etc. All fixed now, but it will make the first few laps interesting.

“We’ve never raced this car here before so totally guessing as we didn’t come to the test and tune day.”
11:50
Nick Sweet gets ready to climb aborad his No. 88VT earlier today during practice. (Speed51.com Photo)
11:45

Dan Hodgdon@Dan_Hodgdon

Good luck to all my @ACTTour friends @NHMS today! Wish I could be there. #ACTTour #ACTInvitational #MagicMile
11:42
Joey Polewarczyk, Jr. was explaining to the media how he has a few crew members from Quebec. Laperle intervened and said, ““How’s your French?”

“Bonjour,” replied Polewarczyk.

“That’s it. That’s all you have?” Ken Squier asked.
11:20
Matt Anderson (49) and Stephane Decoste (78) during practice. (Speed51.com Photo)
11:08
Joey Polewarczyk on racing at NHMS:

“This is the closest place for me. A lot of fans definitely come out. There’s some in the campgrounds they’ll get you whatever you want, really. It’s cool for me being so close to home. I have a lot of friends and family coming here to watch the race.”
10:56
After the first question from the media about the differences the drivers have noticed since the inaugural ACT Invitational, Sweet quickly spoke up.

“I’ll go,” said Sweet. “What I noticed is that the speeds seem faster than ever. I don’t know if it’s the tire or the coldness. I know I’ve been here for the past six years. I think this year we’re just going to go in it the same way we did last year and hopefully we’ll have a good run.
10:31
Comment From DT

Good luck to DT100 for Make-A-Wish drivers Wayne Helliwell, Jr., Eddie MacDonald, Joey Pole, Nick Sweet, Matt Anderson and all other competitors on an exciting and safe race today at NHMS!

10:30
Ken Squier opened the ACT press conference with the national media by asking teams to talk about the difference between racing at a short track and a track like Loudon.

After Joey Polewarczyk, Jr. and Patrick Laperle shared their thoughts, Nick Sweet responded with:

“First off, next time I’m first because you guys are long winded. This race track is definitely a lot longer than what I’m used to racing. I come from Barre, Vermont’s Thunder Road, a quarter-mile mile. I come here and get halfway down the straightaway and think I need to turn left.”
10:29
10:22
Patrick Laperle on racing an ACT Late Model at NHMS:

“I was racing at (Autodrome) St-Eustache last weekend. It’s the same banking, but the straightaway speed here is much faster. You get in the corner, turn, press the brake, and then in the middle of the corner you press the gas. That’s fast. That’s almost as fast as the Cup cars in the corners.”
10:08
Bond ACT Invitational Starting Lineup:

Pos. No. Driver Hometown
1 16ME Travis Stearns Auburn, ME
2 9ME Emily Packard East Montpelier, VT
3 7ME Glen Luce Turner, ME
4 91CT Larry Gelinas Buxton, ME
5 4NY Brandon Atkins Au Sable Forks, NY
6 38VT Tyler Cahoon St. Johnsbury, VT
7 34NH Todd Davis Claremont, NH
8 99VT Cody Blake Barre, VT
9 11NY Josh Masterson Charlotte, VT
10 66VT Jason Corliss Barre, VT
11 9NH Kyle Welch Newport, NH
12 16VT Scott Dragon Colchester, VT
13 9VT Chip Grenier Graniteville, VT
14 28ME Rowland Robinson Jr. Steuben, ME
15 15ME Ben Ashline Pittston, ME
16 27NH Wayne Helliwell Jr. Dover, NH
17 17MA Eddie MacDonald Rowley, MA
18 37VT Brian Hoar Willistown, VT
19 58VT Jimmy Hebert Williamstown, VT
20 48QC Alex Labbe Quebec, QC
21 8NH Guy Caron Lempster, NH
22 41VT Jamie Aube N. Ferrisburg, VT
23 97NH Joey Polewarczyk Jr. Hudson, NH
24 17RI Ray Parent Tiverton, RI
25 91QC Patrick Laperle St-Denis, QC
26 15VT Joey Laquerre East Montpelier, VT
27 41QC Jonathan Bouvrette Blainville, QC
28 19QC Dany Trepanier St-Edouard, QC
29 29NH Aaron Fellows Croyden, NH
30 88VT Nick Sweet Barre, VT
31 50ME Jeff White Winthrop, ME
32 84QC Martin Latulippe Vallee-Jonction, QC
33 07MA Tom Carey Jr. New Salem, MA
34 3VT Ricky Roberts Washington, VT
35 77MA Jimmy Linardy Somerville, MA
36 20NH Taylor Martin Windham, NH
37 49NH Matt Anderson Franklin, NH
38 78QC Stephane Descoste Oka, QC
39 5RI Richard Staskowski Hope Valley, RI
40 10MA John Falconi Oakham, MA
41 11NH Brett Gervais Island Pond, VT
42 10VT Josh Demers Middlesex, VT
43 9MA Brian Tagg Oxford, MA

 
9:48
Ken Squier directs the ACT press conference. (Speed51.com Photo)
9:42
Ken Squier asked the drivers what they do differently for this race compared to a short track race. Patrick Laperle responded with, “Go to sleep early.”
9:34
Josh Demers goes over the scales (Speed51.com Photo)
9:33
Pole, Laperle, and Sweet. (Speed51.com Photo)
9:32
Nick Sweet, Joey Polewarczyk, and Patrick Laperle will be participating in a press conference hosted by Ken Squier.
9:24
ACT Invitational Practice Results

1 84qc Martin Latulippe 31.380
2 91qc Patrick Laperle 31.490
3 7me Glen Luce 31.495
4 07ma Tom Carey, Jr. 31.515
5 48qc Alex Labbe 31.556
6 29nh Aaron Fellows 31.569
7 27nh Wayne Helliwell, Jr. 31.576
8 9vt Chip Grenier 31.655
9 16me Travis Stearns 31.669
10 8nh Guy Caron 31.684
11 58vt Jimmy Hebert 31.721
12 34nh Todd Davis 31.742
13 17ma Eddie MacDonald 31.745
14 38vt Tyler Cahoon 31.753
15 97nh Joey Polewarczyk, Jr, 31.795
16 17ri Ray Parent 31.815
17 11ny Josh Masterson 31.827
18 88vt Nick Sweet 31.870
19 19qc Dany Trepanier 31.890
20 15me Ben Ashline 31.892
21 5ri Richard Staskowski 31.904
22 78qc Stephane Decoste 31.905
23 41qc Jonathan Bouvrette 31.920
24 66vt Jason Corliss 31.926
25 16vt Scott Dragon 31.937
26 9nh Kyle Welch 31.947
27 50me Jeff White 31.990
28 28me Rowland Robinson, Jr. 32.049
29 4ny Brandon Atkins 32.086
30 99vt Cody Blake 32.123
31 9ma Brian Tagg 32.156
32 15vt Joey Laquerre 31.159
33 10ma John Falconi 31.177
34 11nh Brett Gervais 32.202
35 41vt Jamie Aube 32.222
36 91ct Larry Gelinas 32.228
37 9me Emily Packard 32.251
38 49nh Matt Anderson 32.372
39 77ma Jimmy Linardy 32.409
40 10vt Josh Demers 32.482
41 20nh Taylor Martin 32.613
42 3vt Ricky Roberts 32.930
43 37vt Brian Hoar 33.037
9:24
Cody Blake draws for his starting spot (Speed51.com Photo)
9:23
Travis Stearns has drawn number one and will start from the pole for today’s race.
9:23
Ray Parent looks at the officials after drawing his starting spot (Speed51.com Photo)
9:13
The teams are gathered around the ACT trailer to draw for their starting spots (Speed51.com Photo)
9:08
2010 ACT Invitational winner and unofficial 2014 ACT champion Joey Polewarczyk, Jr. (Speed51.com Photo)
8:56
Rowland Robinson, Jr. comes to pit road as Joey Laquerre powers through turn four on the outside. (Speed51.com Photo)
8:55
Patrick Laperle and Glen Luce were second and third in practice, respectively. We’ll have a full rundown as soon as it becomes available to us.
8:52
The track has gone quiet. Martin Latulippe, who just finished lettering his car this morning at NHMS, is P1 in ACT Invitational practice.
8:49
Eddie MacDonald is still dealing with the carburetor issue. A crew member said it has a “flutter” down the backstretch. But then he added “we’ll be fine.”
8:49
Ray Parent is the 2012 winner of the ACT Invitational and one of two drivers not named Eddie MacDonald to win an ACT Invitational. He told Speed51.com earlier this week that he believes he is more prepared than ever for NHMS. (Speed51.com Photo)
8:48
We’re now closing in on the final moments of ACT practice.
8:45
No sort of fancy paint scheme or graphics on Martin Latulippe’s No. 84, but the looks of the car doesn’t make it go fast. He’s currently P1 in ACT practice. (Speed51.com Photo)
8:45
Eddie MacDonald’s crew still working to fix his issues (Speed51.com Photo)
8:43
In previous years the starting lineup has been determined by a draw of sorts. ACT officials normally group the drivers by practice speeds and then each group draws for their starting spot. Slow cars who officials believe can maintain pace will start up front and fast cars will start up back.
8:43
Comment From Cory Casagrande

How do they determine the Starting lineup?

8:41
Looking under the good on Joey Polewarczyk’s car (Speed51.com Photo)
8:40
Patrick Laperle has one big ACT win this year, he hopes to add another today. He’s currently P2 on the speed chart. (Speed51.com Photo)
8:39
10 minutes remain in ACT practice. Latuliippe leads Laperle, Luce, Carey, and Labbe.
8:37
Jamie Aube powers down the frontstretch. (Speed51.com Photo)
8:36
Labbe enters pit road after a practice run. (Speed51.com Photo)
8:34
8:33
When standing near turn one you can hear quite a few cars hitting the rev limiter for their RPMs. Some use it as a gauge to let them know it’s getting close to when they have to let off for the corner.
8:32
Emily Packard and Glen Luce, a pair of Maine natives. (Speed51.com Photo)
8:28
Josh Masterson said he’s really happy with his car. He said the biggest thing they’re working on is just getting the car loose for the race because the track will tighten up later in the day.
8:26
Eddie MacDonald’s team is swapping out the carburetor. He “didn’t like” the other one according to his crew.
8:21
Wayne Helliwell talks to his crew chief through the window net (Speed51.com Photo).
8:20
Decoste and Hebert through turn four. (Speed51.com Photo)
8:19
Rich Staskowski waits to go back out on track (Speed51.com Photo).
8:18
Martin Latillupe is currently fastest over Helliwell and Grenier.
8:17
Alex Labbe’s crew reports that his car was really good on his first run. He also said this session is important to scuff tires to get the “right tires for the race.”
8:16
Nick Sweet at speed. (Speed51.com Photo)
8:13
Alex Labbe sits in his office on pit road (Speed51.com Photo).
8:13
Taylor Martin and Tyler Cahoon. (Speed51.com Photo)
8:12
The crew goes to work on Taylor Martin\’s car (Speed51.com Photo).
8:12
The second wave of cars including Helliwell, Pole, Trepanier, Hoar, Aube, Laperle, and Ashline is now on the track.
8:09
Comment From Ricky Rolfe

Wish we were there with a car ! Maybe next year

8:09
Jimmy Linardy rolls through turn one at speed (Speed51.com Photo).
8:08
Travis Stearns. (Speed51.com Photo)
8:07
Cody Blake exits turn four. (Speed51.com Photo)
8:06
GREEN FLAG: ACT Invitational practice is underway.
8:04
Some cars are lined up on pit road as they wait for practice to get underway (Speed51.com Photo).
8:01
Cars are now rolling onto the track. Josh Masterson is the first car on the track.
8:00
Spotters prepare for practice. (Speed51.com Photo)
7:54
Nick Sweet finished a close second to Eddie MacDonald in 2010 at NHMS. This morning he was busy taping up his No. 88VT. (Speed51.com Photo)
7:51
Martin Latulippe and team put finishing touches on the No. 84QC. (Speed51.com Photo)
7:46
The first ACT practice is scheduled to start in roughly 15 minutes.
7:45
Comment From DMD Racing

we’ll miss not being there it’s a great time good luck to all

7:44
It\’s a cold morning here in New Hampshire. (Speed51.com Photo)
7:41
Bond ACT Invitational Driver Roster:

No. Driver
3VT Ricky Roberts
4NY Brandon Atkins
5RI Richard Staskowski
7ME Glen Luce
8NH Guy Caron
9ME Emily Packard
9MA Brian Tagg
9NH Kyle Welch
9VT Chip Grenier
10MA John Falconi
10VT Josh Demers
11NH Brett Gervais
11NY Josh Masterson
15ME Ben Ashline
15VT Joey Laquerre
16ME Travis Stearns
16VT Scott Dragon
17MA Eddie MacDonald
17RI Ray Parent
19QC Dany Trepanier
20NH Taylor Martin
27NH Wayne Helliwell Jr.
28ME Rowland Robinson Jr.
29NH Aaron Fellows
34NH Todd Davis
37VT Brian Hoar
38VT Tyler Cahoon
41QC Johnathan Bouvrette
41VT Jamie Aube
48QC Alex Labbe
49NH Matt Anderson
50ME Jeff White
58VT Jimmy Hebert
66VT Jason Corliss
77MA Jimmy Linardy
78QC Stephane Descoste
88VT Martin Latulippe
91CT Larry Gelinas
91QC Patrick Laperle
97NH Joey Polewarczyk Jr.
99VT Cody Blake
07MA Tom Carey Jr.

 
7:35
It\’s a chilly morning in the ACT pit area as teams warm up their cars for practice. (Speed51.com Photo)
7:27
Bond ACT Invitational Schedule:


8:00-8:50 am: American-Canadian Tour Final Practice

4:45 pm: American-Canadian Tour Driver Introductions

5:00 pm: American-Canadian Tour Bond Auto Parts ACT Invitational (50 laps)
7:24
7:24
Today’s coverage of the ACT Invitational at New Hampshire Motor Speedway is presented by JOES Racing Products. Based in Everett, Washington, JOES Racing Products was started in 1989 by racer Joe Constance, for racers. Our company reflects an extension of the Constance Racing Family with racers on our staff that are competitive and know quality parts and why they work well. Check out their variety of products available for racers today. Click here to find a dealer near you today!
7:23
Hello and welcome to Speed51.com’s Trackside Now coverage of today’s Bond ACT Late Model invitational from the New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, NH.

It’s a bit chilly out right now, but the team’s are already out warming up their motors for their first practice session today.

We thank you all so much for tuning in as always. We expect it to be a thrilling race later this evening between 43 great Late Model drivers at the “Magic Mile” and we are excited to bring it you.
7:21
DISCLAIMER: All updates posted on Speed51.com’s Trackside Now are property of 51 Sports, LLC and may not be duplicated in any form unless prior permission has been given by 51 Sports, LLC.

Trackside Now – Bond ACT Invitational – New Hampshire Motor Speedway – 9/20/14

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September 20, 2014 8:00 pm
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