Mark Balzano Memorial On Tap This Sunday, May 3rd Paying $10,000 To Win For Super Late Models!
Mineral Wells, WV – The name Mark Balzano still carries weight across the Ohio Valley, remembered as a fierce competitor and one of the early standard-bearers for the Balzano racing family out of Parkersburg, West Virginia.
Long before the family name reached national prominence, Mark was carving out his own path in the highly competitive Dirt Late Model ranks, earning respect for his toughness and natural feel behind the wheel. His career, though tragically cut short, helped lay the foundation for what would become one of the region’s most recognizable names in the sport.
That foundation was further cemented by his brother, Mike Balzano, whose Hall of Fame career elevated the family name to new heights on a national level and helped define an era of Dirt Late Model racing throughout the late 1980s and beyond.
Each year, that legacy is honored in a major way at West Virginia Motor Speedway with the running of the Mark Balzano Memorial, a race that has grown into one of the most anticipated Dirt Late Model events in the region. The event serves as both a tribute and a celebration, bringing together fans, teams, and drivers who understand the impact the Balzano Family has had on the sport and the community that surrounds it.
On Sunday, May 3rd, the stakes rise once again as the Mark Balzano Memorial will pay a stout $10,000 to win, attracting top-tier talent from across the region and beyond with the Valvoline American Iron-Man Late Model Series. Known for producing hard-nosed, blue-collar racing, the Iron-Man Series always delivers intense competition, and with a five-figure payday on the line, fans can expect a stacked field and a no-holds-barred battle around the high-banked 3/8’s mile oval.
Mark’s brother, Mike Balzano, is one of the most accomplished drivers to come out of the Ohio Valley, compiling over 300 career feature wins during a long and successful Dirt Late Model career. Driving the familiar E1 Eddie’s Auto Parts entries, Balzano captured the All Star Circuit of Champions championship in 1987 and followed that up with back-to-back STARS Series titles in 1989 and 1990. He also finished runner-up in the STARS Series standings six times, highlighting his consistency at the national level. In recognition of his accomplishments, Balzano was inducted into the Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame in 2012.
“We look forward to honoring the life of Mark Balzano and the incredible racing accomplishments of the entire Balzano Family this Sunday May 3rd” stated GM, Cody Watson. “Growing up watching races throughout the Ohio Valley I always enjoyed any night I got to watch the famous E1” added Watson. “I want to thank Mike (Balzano) for allowing us to continue this great tradition, with his brothers memorial race each season” concluded Watson.
The Mark Balzano Memorial is more than just another race on the calendar, it’s a night that blends history, emotion, and elite competition into one unforgettable event. As engines fire and the green flag drops, the spirit of Mark Balzano lives on in every lap turned, reminding everyone in attendance why the family name continues to mean so much to Parkersburg area dirt racing.
Tickets for the event are on sale now and at the gate. General admission is priced at just $25 with kids 10 & Under admitted FREE to GA. Pits are only $40 for the three class Sunday special paying $10,000 to win for Super Late Models. Hotlaps will get underway at 6:15pm with gates opening at 3pm. For more info on the event visit www.WVMotorSpeedway.com.
West Virginia Motor Speedway
Since its grand opening in 1984, West Virginia Motor Speedway has been a cornerstone of dirt track racing, hosting some of the sport’s most prestigious events and showcasing the best in motorsport talent. Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Mineral Wells, WV, the track offers breathtaking views and a unique racing atmosphere. The new 3/8 mile clay oval will enhance this legacy and usher in a new era of racing excitement. For continued updates, follow West Virginia Motor Speedway on social media or visit www.wvspeedway.com
Since its grand opening in 1984, West Virginia Motor Speedway has been a cornerstone of dirt track racing, hosting some of the sport’s most prestigious events and showcasing the best in motorsport talent. Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Mineral Wells, WV, the track offers breathtaking views and a unique racing atmosphere. The new 3/8 mile clay oval will enhance this legacy and usher in a new era of racing excitement. For continued updates, follow West Virginia Motor Speedway on social media or visit www.wvspeedway.com
Contact:
West Virginia Motor Speedway
Phone: 304-771-5051
Email: visitwvms@gmail.com
Website: www.WVMotorSpeedway.com
Socials: @VisitWVMS
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