J.J. Smith won the late model feature at Wisconsin International Raceway before a record crowd. - Keith Vercauteren Collection
By Gary Vercauteren
Kaukauna, Wis. (June 30, 1983) – Appleton’s J.J. Smith wheeled his 1983 Thunderbird to a 10-car-length win in the 20-lap late model feature Thursday before a record crowd of 9,378 on “Shopko Night” at Wisconsin International Raceway.
It was the largest crowd in Fox River Racing Club’s 33-year history. The previous record was 7,814 set at “Shopko Night” in 1981.
Smith, who won his first feature here two years ago, got a break early in the race on the third lap when several front runners tangled coming out of the second turn, allowing Smith to move into second place.
Dave Valentyne came off the front row to lead the first six laps of the main event on the paved half-mile oval. Smith dipped under Valentyne on the backstretch, then pulled to a big lead.
Terry Baldry, the fastest qualifier and defending track champion, moved inside of Valentyne for second position but was unable to catch the speedy Smith. Following Smith and Baldry to the finish line were Gene Coleman, Valentyne, and Bob Iverson.
Jeff Herrman, racing in the sportsman class for the third time at WIR, won the 20-lap feature on the quarter mile.
The 24-year-old driver won by less than a car length over Dennis Utke, followed by Randy Boegh, Bryce Spoehr, and Steve Geise.
Results –
Late Model –
1. J.J. Smith, Appleton
2. Terry Baldry, Omro
3. Gene Coleman, Menominee, Mich.
4. Dave Valentyne, Kimberly
5. Bob Iverson, Hyde, Mich.
6. Steve Arndt, Janesville
Sportsman –
1. Jeff Herrman, Branch
2. Dennis Utke, Kimberly
3. Randy Boegh, Appleton
4. Bryce Spoehr, Black Creek
5. Steve Geise, Appleton
6. Jim Duchow, Kaukauna
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