Mike Mahaney Scores Strong Third in Port Royal Speed Showcase Opener
Mike Mahaney kicked off his 2025 racing season with an impressive third-place finish at the Port Royal Speedway Speed Showcase. Despite skipping the Florida racing events, Mahaney's strategic decision to focus on preparation paid off handsomely.
Two dirt track racers competing
"The track presented unique challenges," Mahaney noted, "with turns one and two being shaded and a lower cushion than preferred. However, our performance in turns three and four was particularly strong towards the end of the race." Mahaney's confidence remains high despite not racing in Florida, citing thorough preparation and practice sessions as key factors.
Sprint car sliding through dirt turn
Alex Payne secured a strong fourth-place finish with new sponsor T English Construction. Starting tenth, Payne battled through the field but found restart positions challenging. "Every restart put us on the bottom, which wasn't ideal," Payne explained. "Despite that, we're happy with the result."
Two dirt racers battle side-by-side
Matt Stangle continued his impressive record at Port Royal with another top-five finish. While pleased with the result, Stangle noted some setup challenges: "We were decent early but struggled with the cushion later in the race."
Sprint car racing on dirt
Notable moments from the Speed Showcase:
- 41 modifieds participated
- Danny Bouc showed remarkable determination, making a 250-mile round trip for a backup car after engine failure
- Vinny Salerno and Anthony Perrego faced significant engine troubles
- Logan Watt made his STSS modified debut but retired due to brake issues
- Stewart Friesen started last and worked up to 13th before a restart incident ended his race
Two sprint cars racing on dirt
Two dirt racing cars competing
Sprint cars racing on dirt
Two dirt track racers competing
Sprint cars racing on dirt track
The Short Track Super Series continues with the Doug Hoffman Memorial at Bridgeport Motorsports Park on March 22nd.