The 2024 Utica-Rome Speedway season gets the green flag this Sunday, April 21 with the ‘Honoring Alex’ event run in memory of late promotional icon Alex Friesen. In recognition of Friesen’s iconic No. 68, the 3 Bastards Brewing Modifieds compete for a $6,800 winner’s share for 30 laps of racing.

Friesen lost his life in a snowmobile accident at age 33 on December 5, 1996.

As a promoter, Friesen revolutionized the sport by embracing the power of marketing and communication. His empire had grown to seven tracks – both dirt and pavement – across New York State and Pennsylvania, including Utica-Rome Speedway which he had purchased with businessman John Zemaitis.

Weeks before his passing, Friesen had convened a meeting of 15 Northeast promoters to air ideas for a series of long-distance, high-paying events for the 358-Modifieds under the “STORM” moniker: Short Track Organization for Racing and Marketing.

As a driver, Friesen – with the help of friend Doug Hoffman – achieved a career highlight in October 1996, qualifying for the big-block portion of Super DIRT Week on the Syracuse Mile.

Friesen’s ideas, personality and legacy loom large in the minds of many through the industry today, nearly three decades later.

The 3 Bastards Brewing Modifieds, Taylor’s Trailers Crate 602 Sportsman, Next Generation Graphix Pro Stocks, Fastline Performance Limited Sportsman and Fonda Fair Four Cylinders will be in competition.

Utica-Rome Speedway points begin in all divisions. A draw/redraw format will be in place.

Gates open at 5 p.m., with hot laps at 6:45 p.m. and racing at 7:30 p.m.

Grandstand admission is $22 (Adults), $20 (Seniors ages 65 and over) and Kids 11 and under are FREE.

Pit admission is $45 (Non-Members), $40 (Members), $10 Kids (ages 6-12) and $2 Children ages 5 and under.

The event will be broadcast live on FloRacing (www.floracing.tv).

Sunday's event is preceded by an Open Practice on Tuesday, April 17. Both the outer oval and inner oval will be prepped. All divisions welcome. Grandstand admission is FREE. Pit admission is $35 (Non-Members), $30 (Members), $10 Kids (ages 6-12) and $2 Children ages 5 and under.

Utica-Rome Speedway is located at 5591 NY-5 (Seneca Turnpike) Vernon, NY 13476. The official website is www.uticaromespeedway.com and the speedway can be reached by phone at 315.953.4097.  Like Utica-Rome Speedway on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @UR_Speedway.