"Tri city kart club would come back to where we all started Go Kart
Racing.Gods Speed. Good luck." Randy Stark. HONEST ENGINE RACE TEAM."My brother Kenny
Walters used to race at track when it 1st. opened., with Benny Moore." Clyde Walters Sr "I
saw the comment from Rick Marquis how Feather sound people complain about the noise. Its only once a week for a couple hours.
Let them, and people like them keep complaining. They seem to forget about the airport next door to them that runs 24-7. I'd
love to see THE TRACK BACK." Ed Sieber "My brother Kenny Walters
used to race at track when it 1st. opened., with Benny Moore." Clyde Walters Sr "I
saw the comment from Rick Marquis how Feather sound people complain about the noise. Its only once a week for a couple hours.
Let them, and people like them keep complaining. They seem to forget about the airport next door to them that runs 24-7. I'd
love to see THE TRACK BACK." Ed Sieber "Is there anything we can do to help,
if the state does not want to make a deal and the promoter is real there is a lot you can get done with enough people backing
it. Even if the state really does not want to make a deal. they will if you get enfough people screaming. I know you
could get the Bubba and his army of listeners to back you if the promoter would give him a interview. Bubba is a huge race
fan and races himself and has a state wide following." James Prrochaska "THE
CHRISTMAS PARADE WAS A BLAST!!!! THANKS SO MUCH FOR GETTING US IN IT!!!" Rod Stevens "You're Halloween setup was awesome!!! I was right next to all of your setup. I hope that
my helping with the signatures helped!!! good luck guys!!!" Rita Blight "Hope to see track open soon . Im not getting any younger. HA HA"
Ed Argraves "It would be great to have Sunshine Speedway return. I know the people in my family and extended family
would love to have it return or see it first hand. With luck that will happen, but I am not quite sure that it will be a reality.
I have spend many Saturday nights there!! I would love to see my son Boomer race as his father and family did at the speedway!!"
Gwen Marshall
"Love see track opened again..my grandkids into racing,,we
take them to nascar,,,but little to far and somewhat expensive,,,like local place again,,once drove at sunshine for short
time,,,also hello rob.partelo...i remember when you started oval drags with us,,cb racing" Jimmy Boyer
"Thanks for getting some of the race cars out there for the trick-or-treating!!!
We had a blast!!!! " Rob Stevens Moderator Note: So did we!
Thanks for bringing the crew! The kids loved it! "What's with the site?? Give us some kind of update, its been 2 months and it says
the same thing!" Chris Cummings
"Wow! Would love to see this happen. If nothing else, I've enjoyed just sitting here reading the
comments of a lot of old friends and remembering a lot of very good times. We still have a car and will be there in a heartbeat!
Take care and good luck", Kenny and Sheila Hinton
"It looks more and more like Sunshine Speedway is never going to
be reopened. Have the powerbrokers behind the effort thought of the possibility of opening up
a new Sunshine Speedway at a different location? How about looking into Festival Park Speedway, also known as Zephyrhills
Speedway? Perhaps negotiations can be made with the owners to have that race facility become more than just a special
events track for antique race cars. Look into actual acquisition of it or a lease. A selling effort on how good
that would be for the City of Zephyrhills economy just may work. Granted some money would have to be spent to upgrade
the place, but by the same token upgrading is necessary at the old Sunshine Speedway. How about looking into land acquisition
to build a whole new track? You're building almost from scratch at the old Sunshine Speedway even if you manage
to secure a lease: a lease which, incidentally, comes with no guarantee of renewal. At least with something that is
actually owned the worry of a lease renewal is totally taken out of the picture." John Berti "My father, Steve Meyer, ran the concession stand at Sunshine for almost 30 years! The first time I
was out there was when I was 3 weeks old at a motocross race. I will be 30yo in Jan. My uncles, the A Team (Meyer's) were
a big part of Sunshine and the Figure 8's. I would love to speak to someone about the opportunities to take control of
the concessions again. PLEASE call me or e-mail me at your earliest convenience!" Stephen Meyer, Jr
"Great to hear you'll are working to reopen Sunshine. My wife Sylvia and I spent 30 years of our
life there operating the Food and Beverage concession at Sunshine. Those were some of the toughest working times of my life
but the most rewarding. Best of luck on all of your efforts. If Ican be of any assistance please do not hesitate to call me."
Steve Meyer
"Well I'm hearing all kinds of rumors, and I check this site almost every day
and I see no updates as promised. Is the dream still alive or is it dead." William Walker
"I saw a lot of what looked like work trucks at the speedway and some new paved
surfaces. Is there any work being done to the speedway and please add me to the mailing list. Thank
you for this website and the hope of racing local again." John Peters
"Amanda Davis...I may have to beg to differ with you on who was the best figure 8
driver out there! :-) Your daddy and that 93 of Butch Walker sure did keep us entertained AND scared to death! Tell your daddy
Bonnie Walker said hello and to this day I still remember the tribute he did to Butch on his back bumper." Bonnie Walker
"Moderator, is there some way you could add another forum on here
so we can all talk to each other? I have seen so many names on this list that I have lost touch with in the last 10 years
and I want to catch up with them." Bonnie Walker Moderator Note:
Unfortunately, there are a few folks out there that would lose our 'family-friendly' format.
Please check our 'home' page for a new addition to the website that will allow our readers to post their e-mail addresses
and names so that people that want to get in contact with each other can. "i hope that you'll get the track back. my husband has went to the track for many
years and now i would like my son to do the same thing,." Wendy Yates
"We can't afford to lose another racetrack and with Sunshine's demographic, I can't believe
that's even a consideration. If it's gone, I can NEVER go there." Herb Wouthuis
"As part of the Rescue Team at Sunshine Dragway, and the Vice President
of the MotorSports Rescue Association. I would like to say that I am excited that there is an effort underway to reopen the
circle track. One of the things that we started before this track closed down was to have any EMS personnel that responded
onto the track, trained in MotorSports Rescue. If they worked on the SunStar EMS ambulance, they wore Orange Nomex suits and
were highly trained. Being a S.F.I. Incident Response Instructor, and a Jump Medic at Daytona International Speedway, in addition
to working Eastbay and Bradenton. In our travels, we are all too familure with the "Safety" guys in T-shirts, gymshoes
and a fire extinguisher who may have firefighting experience, but really doesn't have a clue about the specialized training
required to provide fire and rescue/EMS services at a racing event. This is a obvious plug for us, but I think that racers
will be more willing to race at a track when they know that the Rescue Team is well
trained and equipped to meet their needs. If you get a chance on any race night at Sunshine or East Bay. Stop by and say hi.
We are the guys in the Orange nomex racing suits! Good luck in your efforts, and if you need any assistance in understanding
and meeting the NFPA-610 Guidelines for MotorSport Venues, give us a call. Thank you." Jeff Milges Moderator Note: Sounds awesome! Thanks for the information!
"You know I went to Sunshine all the time no matter if it rained or shined. I
have a lot of great memories from when I first went to the last day when I walked out. That last
day I turned around and thought I would never get to step foot on the same bleachers or ride in the back window
of a race car so all I have to say is COME ON PEOPLE BRING BACK MY FAVORITE TRACK!" Rush Downing
"Is there a way we could bring the track to a new beginning by something
such as an annual pass and then just pay for parking ??? Like pay $100 upfront for the whole season then pay maybe
5 dollars an event for parking? The 100 helps get the track back if many sign up and 5 dollars is cheaper than the usual
10-20 a day. It adds up and could possibly be something to be thought about..." David Hajipour Moderator Note: I will pass your idea on... Thanks!
"I'm pullin for you guys all the way up here in Ohio! From
all of us dirt guys to the great racers @ Sunshine - if we can help just let us know. I'm gonna put a big decal
on the car this week www.bringbackthetrack.com and Rusty you better let me come down and drive your car again!" Brian Gray
"Let me know what I can do to help get this track up and runnin'. Terry
Leiter (Bossman)
"To all those that think this is a scam or some other type of money making ????, and
You ask for proof in one way or another - I have a question for You. DO YOU ?? DO YOU HAVE PROOF THATS IT'S NOT
the intensions to get the track up and running again??. If not, talk to the hand on Your way out.. Why even visit this site!
I remember what Jesus said, "if You are not for Me You are agaist Me." I think this verse can be applied here..
I have not heard of anybody demanding or even asking for money, just the support to get the word out.. And of course if You
support the idea of the track, then someone might want to sign the petition and that's it.. No arm twisting for
money or any thing else.....We need Sunshine Speedway up and running for all to enjoy..." Bob Urch
"Please get the track back open. I have a bomber and I'll come every
weekend to race it there. I went there as a little kid and would love to go back!" William Puyear
"We need more places like this around to bring fun to our area.
Been here thirty years - watched all the racing related disappear." Rick Kumor/Classic Specialties
"I HAVE BEN GOING TO THE TRACK SENT I WAS A KID. I WAS THERE THE NIGHT THAT JIMMY
COPE WENT OVER TURN 4 WALL AND LANDED IN THE PARKING LOT. I HAVE THAT PIC OF JIMMY CAR. I HAVE MADE LOTS OF FRIENDS
IN TRACK.SOMEOF THOSE FRIENDS I CALL FAMILY. SUCH IS THE PARTELO'S . I HOPE WE CAN BE RACING THERE AGAIN.
I'LL BE THERE WORKING ROB'S LATEMODEL. PLEASE BRING BACK THE TRACK." Mike Essex
"There are people that are drifters that are willing to donate time to help with getting
the track back open. I posted on tampa racing and there are two pages of people that think it is a good cause because they
live like 5 or so min from the track, let me know if I can help." Pat Cunningham
"I want them to bring back the track I have been going out there since I was a kid.
Now there is a chance that my son could race out there and I think that would be a great thing to watch." Veronica
"Can you please email me a copy of the paper petition so I can make copies to take
to work and get signed". Thanks Mark Moderator Note: Thanks Mark! Keep those signatures coming!
"I am so excited about Sunshine Speedway coming back. We have had some awesome racing
at Sunshine. BRING IT BACK!!" Linda Grimm
"I would just like to say that I am with a group of racers, many of
which have put a lot of time and money in the cars. We travel to other tracks and spend what seems to be sometimes more than
we can afford with the high fuel prices and all, but we keep doing it because this is our lives and this is what we love to
do. I've bonded with many new friends who've done the same for the same reasons. Just when the cost of traveling so
far begins to take it's toll and we wonder if this will be our last season we get new hope with the news of Sunshine maybe
re-opening. Most of my race friends are from Pinellas County and the mere thought of this gives a lot of us hope so strong
that only those involved in racing can fully understand. Your site has given many answers and when someone tells me "It'll
never happen because...", I've reluctantly sent this info to you and so far you've always had the answers to
keep our hopes up! They've made good sense. Well my glass is still half full, not half empty, unlike the other fellow
before me that seems to feel better by bringing others down. I check the site everyday and have friends ask me "Have
you heard any more good news yet?" also daily. My racing friends support you all the way and no matter how it ends we'll
support you to the end. From the majority, not one or two, please keep up the good work you are doing. It means a lot to us
and maybe even more than you can know. Thank you so much for your efforts." Mark Simpson Moderator Note: Thanks Mark! Please continue to spread the work - and ask everyone you know sign
the online petition!
"I would love to see this track come back. My family has raced there for
years my grandfather owned and raced a car there in the 60's. Many may know my father Barry Bartlett, he raced street
stocks and modifieds there for 8 1/2 years and the old man is itching to get back in a car. I grew up at
that track, I was there almost every weekend since I was 2. I raced go karts there and it was like my
house and everyone there was family. now I race in the advance pro-trucks and I really hope the track comes back.
If it does than I will definitley be racing something there. I dont care if its a street stock. I raced at
tracks all over florida but I have always wanted to race there. make it happen." Barry Bartlett III
"They need to quit messing around and open this d___ track back up so I got something
to do on a Saturday nite. I was 6 months old when I first went there to see my uncle race. I'm 21 now and
I want to get my feet wet where my dad and uncle raced. If this happens, I'll find a way to get a car n' get
on the track!" Jarrod Willis
"We can provide stunt riders and motorcycle drifters for the events you have on the
weekends! Let me know!!" James Vitiello
"Well said Rob!! This seems to be the best chance of getting the speedway
opened back up. I for one would love to race local again." - Steve O'Lone "I have longed for the day when my home track would reopen. Everyone has
spread rumors for years that it would come back. As connected to the racing world as I am, I can tell you first hand that
the group responsible for this site and T-shirts are a first class operation that is up to the challange of completing this
task!! If there is a way, they will find it and execute their plan. So please support the plan and promote as much as you
can!! It would be nice to have some affordable racing again!!!" - Danny Partelo "As I said before (Rick and Bobby)there are some of us who
know the person trying to make this happen. I spoke with him before the website or T-shirts were made. There were already
plans for new lighting, bathrooms, etc. I'm sure all of that was needed for the investors and the state. I spoke with
someone concerning the security camera system at Lakeland for my Automotive business. His exact words were the cameras at
lakeland were weathered, and technology has changed since they were installed, making better cameras cheaper now. For him
to rent a bucket remove and install the cameras I could have brand new for not much more expense. This is probably the same
with the rest of the equipment, not to mention the rest of the equipment would have to meet current building codes.(everyone
knows wind codes have changed since Lakeland was built) Also if you don't have a lease yet, why would you buy equipment?
If you supported racing everywhere why would you drive the prices up bidding on
equipment other tracks may have really needed to survive, if you were not ready yet? As far as T-shirts do the math everyone
knows how much it costs for a t-shirt and printing. If you were going to sell t-shirts for a profit wouldn't you pick
something you could sell to more than racing people in our area? Everyone asked what they could do to help. T- shirts and
stickers are a great way to spread the word. I would not waste my time supporting this project if I thought it was a scam,
And by your comments (Ricky and Bobby )I guess I'm a sucker for buying t-shirts and donating to help children. For
everyone else who wants to help make this happen let's work on getting more signatures." Rob Partelo "Hi, I miss the track. My grandfather Allen Thomas raced there when sprint
cars did not have the wings. my Uncle Rick, Dwayne, and Jimmy Thompson has raced there for years it would be great to bring
back the track and I remember going there as a kid. It gives people and family a chance to start off better and also
keep teens off the street, and make the community a better place." Colby Mitchell "who are the investors and where's the proof you really
are opening sunshine? all we see is you selling tshirts. you say this site is to inform us well you haven't informed of
us anything. as john and bobby asked if you had someone at the auction why didn't you buy anything. myself and many others
think this is a bunch of bs right up there with tony stewart going to open it up. you wonder why rumors get started well this
is one hell of a rumor. we're not gullable. show us proof. give us names not bs. anyone who buys these tshirts is a sucker."
Ricky Bullard "It's great to see most everyone who makes a
comment is very supportive. I have been collecting new signatures every day from people who have never been to a racetrack
and would love to be able to go to a local race. I think there are a few people that don't understand how complicated
this process is. For those people who have any doubt, there are some of us who know the future promoter and know how long
he has been working on this project. This is our best and probably only opportunity to ever have a local racetrack again.
If you are a driver, crew, fan, or anyone else that want's to see this happen, I would suggest to call everyone you know
and have them sign the petition. It's amazing to me that every other day I see someone from our racing community and they
have not heard about the plans for the track. I am just as excited as everyone else, and can't wait to hear that a lease
has been obtained, but for now lets all pull together and promote and support and this project any way we can." Rob Partelo Moderator Note: Thanks Rob... you said it well. Now maybe we can focus on the future of
racing in Pinellas - "The front grandstands went to a track in Georgia. The back
grandstands went to Desoto Speedway. The scoreboard went to Auburndale Speedway. The camera towers went to Charlotte County
Motorsports Park etc. etc.. If you were really serious about opening Sunshine Speedway and you had a representative at the
auction why were none of these items purchased by your group, especially at the prices? Contrary to what Mr. Kruhn said I
would love to see this track re-opened but unlike Mr. Kruhn I don't believe everything I read on the internet. All you
have here is a website saying they are going to re-open Sunshine Speedway and they're selling t-shirts and bumper stickers.
They won't tell us the names of any investors and the only thing they have said is there was a meeting on July 29th. If
this was an internal meeting and you won't tell us the details of the meeting why even tell the public about it."
Bobby James Moderator Note: I told everyone about the July 29th meeting
so that people interested in submitting a referral form would know that there was a time constraint for doing so. I
will continue to post your comments that consume my e-mail box - because I am dedicated to posting what I receive - but this
is the last time I will add a note to it. We already have the opportunity to buy used bleachers that were used one time
only - we are purchasing a new scoreboard because we want to offer electronic advertising - the list goes on... If you are
so business minded - have you thought of the consequences of having to disassemble the towers, transport, and get permits
to reconstruct within the new wind code/hurricane standards - all without compromising the integrity of a building?
What is a great deal for one group doesn't make it a great deal for another. You offer no specifics, just generalities -
so I give you no further credibility. Why are you wasting your valuable time reading a website that you believe has
no substance? Quit wasting your time - and in return you won't be wasting mine. "One of the recent comments seemed quite pessimistic. It appears that this individual seems to know
what everybody thinks. If you were a business man looking to broker a big deal, I don't think you would want all of the
details out in the public. Stop and think about the big picture. This is the most serious attempt at getting the track opened
and at least with this website rumors can be dispelled. Not everybody has to be involved in all of the details. Based on Mr.
James comments, it appears to me that he is rolling with rumors, no offense intended. Not everybody THINKS along the same
lines...("this makes people think"). There are reasons for the way this is being handled. If you want the track
re-opened, try to support Shari and others who are volunteering their time and effort....if you don't want the track opened
thats okay also. At least people are trying to accomplish something that has a great deal of support from quite a few people."
John Krohn Moderator Note: Thanks John - If we can just keep the faith and encourage people
to sign the petition, I think we will be headed in a positive direction. The previous e-mail gave me insight into how
rumors get started and stay fueled. No one is making any money off this effort - and there are countless volunteer hours
(I sooo appreciate everyone who is collecting signatures and spreading the word) and financial expenses being incurred (maintaining
a website, merchandise, and most importantly - architechtual fees) - which hopefully will contribute to the long term success
of the efforts being made. I have to remind myself often, it isn't the pace - but the progress.
"Why are you keeping the name of the "future promoter" a secret? This makes people think
that there is no one and you are just trying to sell t-shirts. You said there was a meeting on July 29th
with the state.
Why aren't you posting the results of this meeting? This makes people think that there was no meeting. If a representative
of yours was at the USA auction what did he buy? All the good stuff went to other tracks. This makes people think there wasn't
anyone from your group at the auction. If you want people to support you why all the secrecy?" Bobby James Moderator Note: The meeting on July 29th wasn't with the state, it was internal to see what response had
been made through the referral page. We needed to see what, if any, expertise we could derive from the racing family
and what we had to look for elsewhere. I have spent hours of volunteer time working on this - and am far more frustrated
by the slow progress than I care to express here. Keeping mum on the future promoter was an agreement I made when I
was contacted to work on this. In the bigger picture, it made sense to allow them the freedom to work on getting this
project through - and not field countless phone calls and e-mails from well wishers and nay sayers. That is why the website
was established. I have not - nor do I intend to - shy away from questions and/or comments.
Unless requested otherwise - I have posted everything - positive or not. I do not pick and choose which e-mails I post. Again
- this website's sole purpose is to keep the racing family informed - as I receive any new information. Also
- I am not asking you to support me. I am asking you to support the effort being made to bring racing back to Pinellas
County. It costs you nothing but a small amount of energy to sign a petition, which is your choice.
I haven't asked anyone to buy anything - only had T-Shirts and bumper stickers available
for those that wanted to promote the effort by raising community awareness. In addition, the proceeds will be given
to a non-profit organization to be determined when a net profit has been made.
"Did anyone who is behind this effort to reopen Sunshine Speedway take part in the
auction at USA International Speedway this past Saturday? If so, what was acquired? If not, why was the ideal
opportunity to get just about any and every thing that would be needed for the reopening at riduculously low prices passed
over?" John Berti Moderator Note: I have been out of town and
am expected to hear from the future promoter sometime Wednesday. I will post any updates at that time. I
can tell you that a representative behind these efforts was in attendance at the auction.
"Question: To help get the word out, can we organize an event at, or near, the track?
This would be a good way to show our support to the community, see old racing friends and make some new friends with
a common goal. We could possibly have entertainment (DJ?), some food/drinks, sell bringbackthetrack stuff...etc.
I am sure that drivers like myself would be happy to bring our current cars out for show. Let us know!" Tom
Meyer Moderator Note: We are in the process of putting this event together
Tom - will keep the racing family posted!
"GENTLEMEN START YOUR ENGINES!!! Let's go racing!
Bring back the Sportsmans, we have gone to this track since we were children, what a shame it had to
go- but like the Phoenix, it can rise up from the ashes! Count us in, we would be happy to get the concessions
going since we are in the business! LETS GO RACIN'" Sizemore Family
"Now that Lakeland has been sold and is going to be up for auction I wanted to let
you know that you will can check into on getting lights and bleachers. Thank You." Jerry Vandemeir
"I started to race at sunshine in the bus figure 8s and then they closed down. Didn't
really get a chance to kick some butt so if they open up again and run the bus figure 8s, I have a bus ready to go racing!"
Jimmy Cowboy
"I RACE A MINI STOCK AT AUBURNDALE SPEEDWAY AND I WOULD LOVE FOR SUNSHINE TO REOPEN SO
I COULD COME AND RACE THEIR. CAN YOU PLEASE SEND ME SOME PETITIONS SO I CAN GET SOME NAMES? THANKS AND GOOD LUCK."
DWIGHT RYALS, JR.
"Being that USA Inter Speedway has closed, is there any plans on purchasing any
equipment etc at the auction Saturday Aug 9???, to speed up the process. Such as lighting, stands, score board and vehicles??"
Tom Emerson- 73SS
"I have many fond memories of sunshine speedway! I used to spend every Saturday
night watching my son race. I would enjoy going to the races if this is really true!" Mama Mason
"I started to race at Sunshine in the bus figure 8s and then they closed down. Didn't
really get a chance to kick some b___ so if they open up again and run the bus figure 8s I have a bus ready to go racing."
Jimmy
"The bad news about the closing of USA International Speedway in Lakeland might
be good news for those behind the effort to reopen Sunshine Speedway. The entire contents of the track will be up for
auction on August 9th. Here's a chance for the backers of the reopening of Sunshine Speedway to get a lot of the
necessities for the reopening of Sunshine. Things like grandstands, concession stands: announcer media and VIP booths:
catchfence, lighting, scoreboard, ticket booths, and I can go on and on. According to Bill Martino "Everything
from the pencils on the desks, to the pictures on the walls, to the grandstands will be sold at the auction". Here's
the big chance for the forces behind the effort to reopen Sunshine to get everything they need at auction prices. Please hop
on this once in a lifetime opportunity." John Berti
"Would be GREAT to see this happen!!!!" John Kealey
"My Family and I would love to see the track come back. We now living in Statesville,
North Carolina- love coming to the track when we are in town. I used to sell cokes there and work on the sweep crew and my
little brother's race car, Dough Boy." Kenny, Chary, and Cody Williams
"I HAVE BEEN GOING TO SUNSHINE FOR 35 YEARS. MY MOTHER WORKED IN CONCESSION, WHILE MY
BROTHER RACED FIGURE 8. I NEVER MISSED A RACE IN 35 YEARS. I CAN STILL HEAR THE MUSIC THEY PLAYED
BACK IN THE
DAY. I BELEVE IT WAS HANK WILLIAMS JR., BUT THE DAY THE TRACK CLOSED IT WAS LIKE SOMEONE SHOT ME. I HAVE NOT RACED MY CAR
SINCE. I HAVE RAN A COUPLE BUS RACES FOR MY BROTHER WAYNE CALKINS AND WON ONE, BUT IT'S NOT THE SAME. I DO NOT HAVE A
LOT OF MONEY AND MY
MAIN SPONSER HAS ALLWAYS BEEN ME AND MY FAMILY. I HAVE BEEN THINKING OF MOVING TO GET CLOSER TO
ANY TRACK. BUT IF YOU ALL CAN MAKE THIS WORK I THINK I WILL HAVE TO STICK AROUND. I WAS RAISED AT SUNSHINE AND I WOULD LIKE
TO DIE AT SUNSHINE. CALL ME, EMAIL ME, WHAT EVER YOU NEED. SUNSHINE HAS ALWAYS BEEN MY HOME AND I WOULD LIKE IT TO REMAIN
MY HOME. I WOULD LIKE TO SEE MY DAUGHTER RACE AT SUNSHINE SOME DAY.THANK YOU" JODY L BUTLER ENDURO DRIVER # 7
"Whats up! Do you only post comments that are sugar coated! You know this is a pipe
dream. but if not I will be there. dont get me wrong I love sunshine and the people and racing I know you will not post this
but I am truly with you!" Kevin Grant
- Moderator Note: Unless otherwise requested, or there is an abundance of swearing
or inappropriate content, all posts are put on this comment page that are delivered from a valid e-mail address. The
reason that so many posts are positive is a reflection of the Pinellas Racing Family - and their hopes and dreams. This
website continues to be dedicated to the people that want to support the track re-opening.
"I think it would be great to bring the track back. It will bring family and
friends back together, and help keep kids off the
street while giving them something to do with their time and teaches
them a skill." Cassandra Gibson
"I would love to see this track come back. My family has raced there for years. My
grandfather owned and raced a car there in the 60's. Many may know my father, Barry Bartlett, he raced street stocks
and modifieds there for 8 1/2 years and the old man is itching to get back in a car. I grew up at that track, I
was there almost every weekend since I was 2. I raced go karts there and it was like my house and everyone
there was family. Now I race in the advance pro-trucks and I really hope the track comes back. If it
does than I will definitley be racing something there. I dont care if it's a street stock. I raced at
tracks all over florida but I have always wanted to race there. make it happen. Barry Bartlett III
"It is so exciting to read all the positive feedback from the entire
community. I'm very anxious to see this all happen. Nothing would make me happier than to see my child grow up to experience
the same pleasures Wayne & I have been so fortunate to be a part of for so many years. For those of us that are a part
of this "racing family" know how important it is to continue this tradition. It's time to bring racing back
to Pinellas! If there is anything we can do when the time comes, we will make ourselves available. Thanks on behalf of us
all for all the hard work and efforts." Paula Jefferson
"I wish your group the very best with the effort of bringing racing back to Pinellas
County. I enjoyed growing up there watching family and friends race, and eventually racing myself. I think the racetrack is
a wonderful addition to the economic development of Pinellas Park, and for Pinellas County. The loss of the track immediately
effected the economy in the area. Tax revenue was lost. Local restaurants lost money. Gas stations lost money. The list could
go on and on. I applaud the people involved with this effort, and look forward to taking my son there if this actually happens.
Good luck with the Political aspect of things, because God knows they don't always do the right things for familys and
this economy. Sincerely, William "Billy" Walker"
"I don't know who started all the buzz but I can't see it ever coming
back. Taxes are over a hundred thousand a year and everyone is forgetting about Feather Sound, they b____
for years." Rick Marquis - Moderator Note: The taxes were very high on the total property, much of that
coming from Ulmerton frontage. However, the property is being divided (many pieces have already been leased) and doesn't
come into play. And I don't think anyone is forgetting about Feather Sound, which is why we are asking for everyone
to register - so if need be - we can count on their support later. That said, we will be imposing our own curfew - like
many tracks in the state of Florida - and we are hoping that everyone recognizes the very positive impact this would
have on our local economy.
- As far as who started the buzz, I guess that responsibility would fall on me. I did
so at the request and on behalf of the future promoter and financial backers. I personally have been involved
in conversations and have documented the names and state association of everyone involved. After the lease
is secured, I will be posting the journal. It is important to me that everyone see the immense amount of work that has
gone into this project. It's sad that so many rumors buzzed for so long that now it is difficult for people to want
to believe that it can happen. Time will tell. I am as anxious as everyone else for a rapid conclusion.
Unfortunately, as stated before, this is on their timeline, not ours.
"I believe this is the most ideal area in the country for a profitable and exciting
race track." Dennis Neighbor Sr
"The web site continues to be a great resource for answering questions and squashing potential rumors.
I check the web site on a daily basis. This is such an exciting event, our hometown track returning! So many memories and
so many friends were made at our track. It is such an awesome feeling to know that we will soon be able to rekindle old friendships,
make some new friends and most importantly put the rubber to the pavement so close to home once again! I can't wait for
opening day!" Cheryl Shepherd
"Looking forward to the day the track reopens. I have many memories of working there and meeting great
people and making a lot of friends. I, for one, can't wait!" Rick Day
"Not only is this great for the local circle track racers it can also help out the
local drift guys also. It can give them a place to drift legally and could also possibaly get a circuit coming here. That
is just my thoughts. Good luck and looking forward to seeing track open again." Patrick Cunningham
"I will do any and every thing that is talked about to help bring back the most
important thing that needs to bring family and fun back to my home state and county..." Carol and Don Walker Sr.
"I watched my dad, Corky Craver, and my husband, Dwayne Thompson race. I
really miss that track. It was the highlight of my week going to the races on Saturday night." Rebecca
Thompson
"...THOSE PICTURES BRING BACK MEMORIES.. I RACED THERE FOR
11 YEARS!" Doug Cercek
"I worked at Sunshine Speedway for about 4 years for Steve Myers in
consession stand. I am so ready for Sunshine to open. I know quite a few people that want to race cars here in Pinellas County,
but it is too far to drive to go somewhere. So, open Sunshine back up! It would be great for the community
of Pinellas Park and Pinellas County." Theresa Peters
"As soon as I heard about this page, I had to Google it. The instant
thought of us having our home town track back, boy, let me tell ya, I was thrilled. I was one of the privileged that grew
up in the pits and swerved around that track, myself, my brother and my family. Despite the closing of the track, my family
and I have kept our racing fever alive. Granted we have to drive all the way to Citrus County (where we are currently in first
place points, driver #88 Bobby Ervien) or Desoto Speedway. I'm sure we have all said it, and faced the facts, gas prices
are outrageous, and who wants to drive out of county when we could have our home town track back. That track kept young-ins
out of trouble and brought families together, generation after generation. We've all talked about it, so let's do
it, and let's bring back our track!" Jessica Ervien
- The Ervien Family #88
"As a former SSRA member, would love to see the track re-opened. All I really have to say is the people
are a real family and are missed a lot. I live in NC now, but would come and visit during the race season as often as I could.
It would be wonderful to see everyone again. It's been a long 4 years." Teresa Larabee
"Can you please email me the form so I can get more signatures and addresses? I know an awful lot of people
that want to help bring back the track! Thanks!" Mark Simpson
Moderator Note: Can do, Mark! Please
encourage everyone you know to collect signatures - and thanks!
"Please bring the track back, I grew up watching the races there and I will build a car if they bring
it back!" Chris Cummings
"Do you have any petitions started? if so, I know many people who would sign it!! Thanks!!"
April Pease
Moderator Note: Thanks April! !
"I race with the Outlaw Modified Series and would love to run my HOME track once again. I also
have the old Mini-Stock ready to go..." Tom Meyer "I would really be happy to see Sunshine Speedway open again! PLEASE! I miss that
place an awful lot!!!" Paul DeNiro "I miss the option to take friends and relatives out to the track for a great night of fun. If we want
to go see the races somewhere, it's a long drive. Bring it BACK!!!!! SOON, please." Larry Leonard
"You open and Pistol Pete puts the fire suit back on, locked, loaded, and ready to rock. GIT-R-DONE."
Pistol Pete Barr
"I never knew how much I would miss sunshine and can't wait for it to reopen."
John Stewart "How do we get on the mailing list? And how do you get a petition?? Have already told
lots of people 'bout this web site and will continue to!!! Can't wait!!!" Rodney Stevens
Moderator
Note: Thanks Rodney - we will be adding you to the mailing list and have sent you the sign-up sheets!
"I would like to see the track reopen, though I raced at Desoto Speedway for many years, I think
we all could have fun locally. I hated the 45 minute drive to Desoto." Mod Mini #54 Roy L Nelson "I hope that Sunshine Speedway will open again because I want to be able to race at a hometown
track, instead of driving way out of town to race. Also, I would love to bring my son up racing at Sunshine like my
dad did with me (Ron Sorensen). I sure would be there every Saturday night. Thanks." Ron Sorensen Jr
From the Markowicz Family:
"Thank you to all involved, you're awesome!!! We're keeping our fingers crossed. Please reopen
and bring back Karting and Stock Car racing to Sunshine Speedway." Tami Markowicz, Secretary for Tri-City Kart
Club
"My name is Cody Markowicz. I started Kart Racing at Sunshine Speedway in 2004. I only got
to race a few times there, then it closed down. I saw my first Stock Car race there and I hope it opens again
soon. Bring back the track - please!" Cody Markowicz, 13
"My son and his family live in St.
Petersburg and they told me what's happening with Sunshine Speedway. I live in Connecticut and would love to visit
and see my grandson race his Kart at this historic track and go to the Saturday night races (Florida style!). Bring
back the track!" Leslie Markowicz "Fantastic! I was just told about this website last night. I work with
the Bennett Bros Mini-Stock #82 team and we would all love to the the "Sunshine" rise again. Sunshine became
my thing on Saturday night in 1972, and with the exception of being stationed out of state, it again became the mandatory
formation on Saturday nights upon my return to Pinellas county. If there is any way we can get the track reopened I
have no questions that you will be able to pack the stands once more. I will be sharing this website with everybody
I know. Is there any action that can be taken by any of us to help convince the 'powers-to-be" that opening
the track would be a good thing for all involved? The track being closed for the last 4 years has really wasted a lot
of possible revenues that could have been coming in." John Krohn
Moderator note: Please see an answer
to John's question under the FAQ section.
From the Smith crew -
"I want Sunshine to open so I
can watch my Papa race his Mini Stock #82. Sunshine is more fun and close to our house." Albert, age 11
"Sunshine is a lot of fun. It would mean a lot if Sunshine opened so I could see my Papa race there again.
We would be there for every race." Harold, age 12
"I want Sunshine to open so I can see my Papa
race Mini Stocks. I had a lot of fun at Sunshine watching the races and playing." Andrew, age 8
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" Linda O'Lone