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Thank you to everyone who was involved in the "Ricky Miller Memorial 100." It was such a perfect day, spectacular weather, wonderful people and a great race. The raffle went better than expected, all 100 laps were sold and we ended up with $15,012.00 raised for Kyle Petty's Victory Junction Gang Camp in Ricky's memory. If it wasn't for all of you special people we would have never reached our goal. This money will help a few kids that life dealt a lousy hand to have a week of happiness and joy. Your involvement and donations made this possible and everyone should be very proud! We the miller family are so honored to have Ricky remembered in such a positive and special way. It helps us in the daily struggle of learning to live without Ricky. Again from the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU!!

ROC Champ Hirschman Enters Ricky's Race:

Canaan , NH – (October 20, 2008) – 2008 ROC modified champion and NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour standout Matt Hirschman, Northampton , PA. , announced Monday Oct 20, his intention to compete in Sunday’s “Ricky Miller Memorial 100” at Twin State Speedway, Claremont , NH . It will be Hirschman’s first race with the True Value Modified Racing Series. He’ll drive the Pennsylvania based J & J Motorsports # 59.

With the ROC and Whelen Modified Tour point races behind him, the second generation
racer felt it was time to get in as many races possible before seasons end. All the pressure is off and Hirschman will head to New Hampshire’s Upper Valley with two thoughts, to win, and have fun.

“This race was supposed to go off a few weeks ago. (Sept 28) When I looked at the schedule and saw the make up date, the timing was perfect.” Hirschman added, “I raced there before with the Whelen tour and finished second. It’s a great track and fun to drive.”

The race has drawn interest from all over the northeast and will feature many competitors with a link to the famed oval, several who started their careers there. Dwight Jarvis, Peter Jarvis, Jack Bateman, Sean Bodreau, and returning veterans, Peter Daniels, and Roger Raymond, all are ready to tackle their old digs.

Said Hirschman, “There are people (drivers) that could drive that place blindfolded, I have 100 laps under my belt, they have thousands, but a side by side race the last time I was there raises my confidence level. It will be fun; I’m really looking forward to it.

Although this is Hirschman’s first attempt to run a stand alone TVMRS race, he almost competed with the series this year. “I looked at a couple but the timing was not right. If I was closer to New England or lived up that way, you’d see me a lot more. I’d probably give that series the support I give the ROC. But where I am in Pennsylvania , the ROC is the right deal for me.” We’ll see, I’d like to run (your) series more in 2009.”

Hirschman will have competed in 40 races this year with 11 major wins and the ROC Big Trophy to show for it. He’ll be at Twin State , Sunday, to support Ricky’s race and try to add another win to his 2008 resume.

Sunday’s race is also a qualifying event for the North-South Shootout in Concord , NC ; Nov 8, and the 6th annual John Blewett III Memorial Race. Races start at 1:00 PM

Pasteryak, Holdridge, Chasing True Value Title At Twin State:

Claremont , NH . – (October 18, 2008) -- Thanks in part to Mother Nature washing out the originally planned race program last month, the re-scheduled “Ricky Miller Memorial 100,” presented by New England Outdoor Furnaces, will be the final 2008 touring race for modified race cars in New England, Sunday afternoon, Oct 26, at the Twin State Speedway, Claremont, NH.

The race, the first sanctioned by the True Value Modified Racing Series at Twin State , will decide the 2008 series championship. Two Connecticut racers are battling it out for the title. Both are seeking their first championship with the fifth year series.

Chris Pasteryak, Lisbon , CT. , takes a 17 point margin into the historic New Hampshire speedway over Mike Holdridge, Madison, CT. Pasteryak is coming off a convincing win at Seekonk, MA., last weekend. It was Pasteryak’s second win of the year.

In the Koszela Speed Rookie-of-the-Year title run, Weare, NH., driver Kenny White Jr., has a 24 point cushion over runner-up Joe Doucette, Framingham , MA .

Sunday’s race, honoring the late Ricky Miller, a former Twin State racer, NASCAR modified competitor, and Riverside Park standout and champion, will serve as a fundraiser for the Victory Junction Gang Camp. Miller, a very popular driver with fans and competitors alike, passed away in 2004

When previously announced in March, Donnie Miller, father of the late racer, disclosed his intent to make the event a fundraiser choosing to benefit the Victory Junction Gang Camp organization. Miller stated, “I want this event to mean something special and that is why I decided to make it a fundraiser for Kyle and Patty Petty’s fine organization. Miller added, “They founded this camp to help chronic and terminally ill children.”

Miller’s goal of $15,000 is close to reality as all 100 laps have been sponsored by area businesses and fans setting a strong foundation for what organizers have been trying to attain.

In addition to an afternoon of racing that also will highlight the Northeastern Midget Association, Pepsi Modifieds, and New England Pro-4 modifieds, fans will have the opportunity to win a number of door prize type raffles to also benefit the Victory Junction Gang Camp. A $1,000 cash prize will be given away to some lucky fan holding a race admission ticket by Donnie and Barbara Miller, parents of the fallen racer.

Retired driver Donnie Ayer has been named honorary starter for the race. Retired drivers Peter Daniels and “Rocket” Roger Raymond are both slated to compete. Daniels will drive the Luke Royea, owned and prepared # 2 car, while Raymond will officially retire at the conclusion of the race driving his famed # 162 modified for the final time.

The race, the last touring race of the season, is drawing interest outside the TVMRS. Any additional information pertaining to race entrants will be announced as they are received.

Practice for all divisions begins at 10:00 with heat races for all “Open Wheel Sunday” competitors scheduled for 1:00 PM. For additional information, call 603-543 -3160

Ricky’s Race Organizers Close To Goal for Victory Junction Gang:

Claremont, NH (September 24, 2008) - - Organizers of this weekends “Ricky Miller 100” race at Twin State Speedway, Claremont, NH., Sunday September 28, are pleased to announce their lap sponsorship campaign has been a success with all 100 laps of the True Value Modified Racing Series race sponsored by area businesses and fans.

All proceeds will benefit the Victory Junction Gang organization. Kyle and Patty Petty founded the camp to help chronic and terminally ill children.

“What a foundation for what we are doing said Donnie “Jet” Miller, speaking on behalf of his family. All money collected goes to Victory Junction Gang. This starts us off at $10,000 and our goal is $15,000. We are well on our way and I want to thank everyone for their support. I just heard today that if driver Mike Parks wins the pro stock race Saturday, he’s donating all his winnings to our cause. What a wonderful gesture.” Miller added, “Anyone that wants to make a contribution, no matter what the amount, we would be very grateful, everything is going to this great cause to help these kids. This is Ricky’s race and he’d be proud.”

Raffles and door prizes will be done on Sunday to help organizers reach their goal.

Race Time is 1:00 PM

Daniels Comes Back To Race For Ricky:

Canaan , NH . (September 21, 2008) - - It is no secret that the racing game is hard to walk away from when you choose to make that move. Drivers and even car owners who spend 20 plus years involved in racing look for other opportunities to occupy time. Most will focus on family, vacations, kid’s sports, home projects, whatever it takes to deter them from wanting to get back. For some, they can’t break away,, always looking for results, news, go to the races, or in this case just sit back and from a distance watch the progress, the growth, the weekly happenings of the True Value Modified Racing Series.

Peter Daniels, an eight-time track champion at Twin State , three of those titles in the modified division, admits he’s paid attention since his last race in 2005. “I have kept up with the series, absolutely, it is amazing to see where the series is, where it has come from, the names that are competing. Daniels added, “I have really missed racing, missed the series, I raced against some greats drivers, but it was time to move on.”

After 23 years it was time for Daniels to change his priorities. “Home projects, time spent with family, a son that plays hockey, baseball, football.” all important moments in Daniels life as a husband and father. Daniels enjoys watching his son participate in sports but the 2002 NASCAR National Champ is quick to point out, “My son misses his Dad racing too.” That will come to an end this weekend when Peter straps himself into a ground pounding modified as the Twin State Speedway plays host to the True Value Modified Racing Series for the first time and the running of the 1st annual “Ricky Miller Memorial 100,” presented by New England Outdoor Furnaces.

As for his return, “Truthfully it almost happened earlier.” said Daniels. Jack (Bateman) contacted me early on about Thunder Road and Claremont ( Twin State ) to see if I had any interest. I could not commit to Thunder Road but I was definitely interested in this race at Twin State . Luke Royea was kind enough to give me a ride, a shot, a chance to drive a modified again at Twin State . A chance to race in Ricky’s race. I raced against Ricky, a good kid and a heck of a racer. I am grateful to Luke for the opportunity. I just hope we can qualify, put on a good show, and get a good finish for Luke and his team.”

Daniels has already turned some strong laps at Twin State in scheduled practice sessions.

“It felt good. I just needed to get the cobwebs out, but once I did, it felt like home.” Pit side observers have said that Daniels looked like he has not been away. Each lap, he was getting faster and faster.

When the checkered flag drops Sunday, will the 3-time winner on the TVMRS give any consideration to a full time return to the series? Daniels paused, “No, I don’t think so. My brother, my crew, we’re all doing different things now. It costs a lot of money to race these things, I sold my cars and parts, cleaned out everything so I would not go running back, we would have to start from scratch and I do not see that happening.” Would Daniels give consideration to maybe a part time schedule driving for someone else? “I’m not sure, (another pause) well maybe.” If Daniels has a strong run Sunday, perhaps opportunity will come knocking. Question is, will he answer the door.

Sunday’s race in honor of Ricky Miller will also benefit the Victory Junction Gang organization. Race time is 1:00 PM.

Former Claremont Champion Named Honorary Starter for Ricky’s Race:

Claremont, NH (September 18, 2008) - - Former Claremont (Twin State) Speedway champion Donnie Ayer has been named honorary starter for the 1st annual, “Ricky Miller Memorial 100” Sunday Sept.28., at the Twin State Speedway, Claremont, NH. The race, presented by New England Outdoor Furnaces, will be run in honor of the former New England modified standout and second generation driver who passed away in 2004.

Ayer began his career in 1968 winning a demolition derby at the Claremont oval. A year later, he entered weekly stock car racing events quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with. In 1970, Ayer was recognized with “Sportsman of the Year” honors, and two years later would become the 1972 champion at Claremont . Ayer grabbed two more titles at Claremont in 1975 and again in 1980 with nine victories paving the way to the championship and “Driver of the Year” honors.

Ayer’s success came against some of the top drivers at both Claremont and Monadnock Speedways. Weekly battles were staged against Punky Caron, Kirby Monteith, Jerry Dostie, Donnie Miller, Jerry Bly, Ollie Silva, Dunk Rudolph, Allen Whipple, Jack Bateman, Roger Raymond and Dwight Jarvis to name a few. Not an easy task.

Ayer tallied close to 40 feature wins and raced at Stafford Springs, Thompson , Lebanon Valley, Devils Bowl, Orange County , Beech Ridge, Thunder Road , Riverside Speedway in Agawam , MA , Star Speedway and Lee USA Speedway. Ayer raced until 1984 and dabbled again at driving in 1988. He then called it a career after 20 years of competition.

The True Value sanctioned event carries a special purse for the race honoring Ricky Miller, the NASCAR modified standout and 1999 Riverside Park Speedway champion, who passed away in 2004 at the age of 34. The winner of the 100 lap race in Millers name will receive $2,000 to win and all competitors will receive added bonus money to start the event.

Fans will also have the opportunity to win special prizes from a race day raffle including a $1,000 cash prize from Donnie and Barb Miller, the parents of Ricky Miller. Proceeds from the raffle will benefit The Victory Junction Gang, an organization that benefits children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses.

The Sunday afternoon program will also feature NEMA Midgets, Pro Four Modifieds, and the Pepsi Modifieds. The True Value Modifieds will compete in 12 lap heat races to determine the starting lineup. Race Time is 1:00 PM. Grandstands open at 10 AM.

For more information contact the speedway office at 603-543-3160 or log on to www.rickysraceforkids.com.

Miller Family Appreciates Support For Ricky's Race:

Claremont , NH . (September 15, 2008) - - For years as a race driver, legendary Donnie “The Golden Jet” Miller had a strong feeling, something that always gnawed at him. Something he always wished he could change. He tried but often fell on deaf ears. “It always bothered me that the guys putting on the show had to pay to put on the show. We were the only sport that did that, it’s still that way, and if I had a shot at it, I’d do it.” said the Claremont multi-champion.

Miller will have his way on Sunday, Sept 28, the day the True Value Modified Racing Series makes it’s first ever appearance at the Twin State Speedway, a race track that is near and dear to the Miller family. The event will be run in honor of Ricky Miller, who passed away in 2004, an established racer, a former Claremont , Riverside Park , and NASCAR modified standout.

The Golden Jet wants to show appreciation to those that are competing in the first annual, “Ricky Miller Memorial 100”, presented by New England Outdoor Furnaces. “I’m paying the pit fee for the modified drivers. I’ve arranged for their own window, all they have to do is sign in and be on their way. No lines. It’s just something I’ve always wanted to do. I appreciate these guys coming out and supporting this race. I want to see modifieds go around Twin State again.”

Miller, who started racing in 1964, is the holder of a special record that will never be broken. He won the track championship at Claremont in 1972 on dirt and then won the track title the year after on asphalt.

Miller and his family have been hard at work with a cast of supporters lining up raffle and door prizes to benefit the Victory Gang Junction organization. Kyle and Patty Petty founded the camp to help chronic and terminally ill children. Miller, and his wife Barb, have donated $1,000 cash that will go to some lucky race day ticket holder.

“I want it to be an event and not just another race.” The support and assistance he’s getting from the Twin State Speedway staff has been big. “I want this to be a big success for Dennis, a bright sunny day, and a big crowd for the return of the modifieds. “This is hard for me, with my son and all, but I wanted this to happen. Barb, Jet, and Heidi, we are grateful.

Victory Junction Gang Camp To Benefit From Ricky's Race:

Claremont, NH (August 5, 2008) - - - With the 1st annual “Ricky Miller Memorial 100” only eight weeks away, organizers for the event have announced a major fundraiser to coincide with the first ever appearance of the True Value Modified Racing Series at the Twin State Speedway, Claremont, NH.

The September 28 race, presented by New England Outdoor Furnaces, will honor the memory of one of the regions local heroes who started his racing career at the Upper Valley speed plant. The popular second generation driver passed away in 2004.

When previously announced in March, Donnie Miller, father of the late racer, disclosed his intent to make the event a fundraiser and chose the Petty family’s Victory Junction Gang organization “I want this event to mean something special and that is why I have decided to make it a fund raiser for Kyle and Patty Petty’s Victory Junction Gang Camp, said the legendary driver.” He added, “They founded this camp to help chronic and terminally ill children. I hope we can get support from all of the businesses in and around the Claremont area and the race fans to make this a great success. It would be great to be able to make a nice sized donation to the Victory Junction Gang Camp.”

An effort to reach the goals Miller speaks off is presently underway. With 100 % of all proceeds going to Victory Junction Gang Camp.

A special door prize will be given away to a lucky race fan holding the winning adult ticket on race day. Donnie and Barb Miller have contributed $1,000 cash prize to be awarded to the lucky fan.

The racers will also have a chance at the “green stuff.” The inaugural event for the TVMRS at Twin State Speedway will pay $2,000 to-win and $475 dollars to start the race.

Ricky Miller To Be Remembered:

Claremont, NH (Mar 14,2008) --- In a joint announcement, track owner Dennis Fleury and series president Jack Bateman, the principals responsible for the inaugural event, advise the 1st annual “Ricky Miller Memorial 100,” presented by New England Outdoor Furnaces,” will be held on Sunday afternoon Sept.28th as part of the Twin State Speedway Fall Challenge, a two day event.

Miller, a Twin State (Claremont Speedway) standout for many years before moving on to the Whelen Modified Tour and the NASCAR Busch North Series died at the age of 34. The popular competitor, a one time Florida racer and crew chief for noted car owner/builder Mario Fiore, would also win the last Whelen Modified Tour race at the famed Riverside Park Speedway, Agawam, MA., and claim that tracks final championship for the modified division prior to it’s 1999 closing.

The addition of the September race to the TVMRS schedule has generated a tremendous amount of interest from fans and racers. The opportunity to honor and remember one of the speedways greatest names make’s the event that more special.

Marketing director John Hoyt opined, “The TVMRS and TSS worked very hard to get the series back to where many of the original series drivers called home. We all knew that this event was going to be big, now with the addition of the Miller family as part of this event, it is going to be special. For me this event is now very personal, not only is it being held at my home track but I also get to honor the person that got me involved in racing. The very first race car I ever worked on was Ricky’s. He and the Miller family provided me with opportunities in this sport that few people ever get. In racing there is no higher honor than to be called a Racer. Ricky Miller was a Racer.”

TSS race director Mike Parks noted that the late racer was a big part of the tracks long history. “We wanted to make this event as special as we can, so with the help of the TVMRS and Donnie and Barbara Miller, what a way to bring the Mods back. Ricky cut his teeth racing at the Thrasher Road oval from the start of his racing career, racing in the street stocks with his AMC Javelin. From that point he made the jump to the pro stock class again with many feature wins to his credit. The Miller family has a long history at TSS as Ricky’s dad Donnie “The Golden Jet “Miller was a multi time track champion at the speedway. TSS is proud to be able to honor Ricky with this event.”

Series founder Bateman fondly remembered Miller who passed away in 2004. “I am really happy that the TVMRS and Twin State Speedway have been able to put this together. Donnie Miller is a longtime friend who I raced with for many years. Donnie was one of Claremont’s modified hero’s, known as” The Golden Jet”. His son Ricky followed in his footsteps racing on the local short tracks. He was a strong competitor and became a good friend to me and many in the local racing fraternity. I know that we are all going work really hard to make the series’ inaugural visit to Twin State a huge success. I want to thank track owner Dennis Fleury and everyone involved for making this happen.”

The legendary “Golden Jet” Donnie Miller was emotionally overwhelmed to learn that his late son was going to be remembered in front of many of the drivers he raced with and is hoping for a big turnout from modified fans from all over New England. “Ricky’s mother, sister, brother, and I are so honored to have a racing tribute in Ricky’s memory. He would be very proud and so humbled to have a modified racing event to include his name and memory. Ricky was a true racer and the now Twin State Speedway (formerly Claremont Speedway) was where he cut his teeth in racing at a very young age. It is also where he raced his last race. He raced from Maine to Florida in many different divisions and was moving up racings ladder of success when he was taken from us in the prime of his life.”

The New England racing great added that this race has an additional meaning for him and his family. “I want this event to mean something special and that is why I have decided to make it a fund raiser for Kyle and Patty Petty’s Victory Junction Gang Camp located in North Carolina. Kyle and Patty Petty also lost their son Adam Petty at a very young age. They founded this camp to help chronic and terminally ill children in Adam’s memory. Out of all tragedy comes some good and if we can raise some money to help give some chronic and terminally ill children a little happiness in their lives it will sure help us. I hope we can get support from all of the businesses in and around the Claremont area and the race fans to make this a great success. It would be great to be able to make a nice sized donation to the Victory Junction Gang Camp.”

Miller closed saying, “I would like to say thank you for all of the support we have received so far and thank you to all those that plan to support us in the future to make this a race to remember."