Keith Schmitz joins elite class of Night Of 1000 Stars Champions

  • August 9, 2002
  • by Christina Danielsen

BRITT, Iowa (August 9, 2002) - A dream. A goal. A reality.

Keith Schmitz of Swaledale picked up the biggest win of his career on Friday night as he flew into victory lane at Harris Auto Racing's Night of 1,000 Stars at the Hancock County Speedway in Britt.

Schmitz, a Britt regular, drew the pole position after placing second in his heat and held on for a wild 30-lap ride collecting almost $3,000 plus contingencies and a huge trophy. The driving energy from the cars ignited the crowd as the Modifieds completed over 20 laps before a caution was thrown.

Schmitz led the entire race for an extra $920 bonus in lap money, plus the $2000 to win, but not without a fight. John Logue of Boone tried to reel Schmitz in from lap one, making it a sprint to the finish with a half car length the margin of victory.

Joe McBirnie of Boone finished with a strong third place finish and Kevin Stoa rolled over the finish line in fourth. Defending Night of 1,000 Stars champion, Johnny "The Jet" Saathoff of Beatrice, NE. finished 18th.

In the Limited 360 Modified class, Ed Green of Algona picked up $500 and his 24th victory of the season surpassing Al Johnson of Story City and Todd Hanson of Clear Lake.

Dan Hanselman of Algona held off powerhouse, Shane Monson of Clear Lake for the Hobby Stock win. Tony Smidt of Britt finished third.

Racing action continues this Friday with Fan Appreciation Night, sponsored by Picture This! of Forest City. Hot laps begin at 7 p.m. with racing at 7:30 p.m.