The OSCAAR divisions have got a schedule in place for 2020 season, with their first stop coming up sooner than you think. The four-race campaign will kick off with a visit to Jukasa Motor Speedway on August 8.

As we get ready for the event, here’s a brief history at the track’s association with the OSCAAR brand.

This scheduled event marks the third trip to the half-mile for the Queenston Chevrolet Buick GMC OSCAAR Modifieds presented by Scott Reinhart Trailer Sales Ltd., Touchwood Cabinets, and The Fyre Place & Patio Shop.

The inaugural appearance in 2018 saw five-time series champion Gary McLean dominate, leading flag-to-flag en route to scoring the victory. Although he has won 38 career races, this is an event that comes up in conversation more often than not due to the significance of Jukasa being Canada’s crown jewel.

The series’ return to the oval in 2019 saw John Harper taking the lead in the first half, pacing the field the rest of the way en route to a dominating performance and checkered flag. The moment will always go down as one of the most bittersweet moments in the series, in knowing the veteran would pass away later that month.

The series has seen an array of drivers finish in the top-10 through both events, with 15 drivers being able to do so. Notably, only three competitors have scored a top-10 in both races – Cory Horner, Jason Keen, and Dale Reinhart. The No. b10 also has shared in that honor, with Kelly Balson placing seventh in 2018, followed by J.R. Fitzpatrick in second last season.

For the Knightworks Design OSCAAR Hot Rods presented by Sauble Falls Tent and Trailer Park, it will mark their fourth appearance at the half-mile, following their debut in 2018, followed by a pair of events last season.

While the modifieds have seen dominating performances en route to victory lane, it’s been a series of mid-race passes for the lead that have ultimately seen the winner emerge. The ‘ol school have also thrilled with the fans as many fans can recall other battles throughout the fields for various positions coming down to the checkered.

Tyler Hawn got the honor of winning the inaugural event, after passing Billy Alderson Jr. just past the halfway mark for the lead. Jerry Broom then turned in a sixth in 2018 to a victory the following season after passing Hawn at the halfway mark. Notice a trend here? It was Broom’s battle for the lead and contact with Paul Senior that handed Steve Book the lead with five laps to go en route to Book taking the checkered.

Given the recaps over the years, many would assume Broom is the favorite when you head to Jukasa Motor Speedway each season. While arguably true, Book is right there with him, boasting a higher average finish with third across the three events, compared to Broom’s average of 5.3.

Though if you’re looking for a fourth straight different face to grace victory lane, Nick Clarke has to be up for consideration given that he has finished in the top-10 in each of his three trips to the half-mile oval with a track-best third last September.

Another pair who have created some conversation quickly would be Jeremy McLean (fourth and fifth last season), and Jesse Kennedy (second last September). Though it’s worth noting both drivers have elected to hand over the controls of their cars to two new Hot Rod competitors.

In total, 19 different competitors have scored a top-10 at Jukasa, with eight of those having done so more than once.

The Modifieds and Hot Rods will be in action at Jukasa Motor Speedway on August 8, alongside the APC Auto Parts United Late Models of Ontario Tour. Unfortunately, due to COVID regulations, spectators will not be allowed to be in attendance. Instead, fans are encouraged to watch the event live stream at http://www.GForceTV.net.

Be sure to keep up with OSCAAR by staying tuned to the series website at http://www.oscaar.ca. Also, make sure to “like” the official OSCAAR Racing Facebook page, while following both the Twitter and Instagram accounts (@OSCAARRacing) to keep up to date on everything you need to know.

OSCAAR’s 2020 racing season was supported by several dedicated partners including Queenston Chevrolet Buick GMC, Knightworks Design, Living Lighting Canada, Scott Reinhart Trailer Sales Ltd., Touchwood Cabinets, Sauble Falls Campground, The Fyre Place & Patio Shop, Ohsweken Speedway, American Racer, and Grisdale Race Products.

By: Ashley McCubbin