Rookie Set To Join Modified Lite Division In 2015

Thorold, Ontario - For the last 8 years, Steven Beckett has spent much of the fall and winter months working on his racer in preparation for a new season. After showcasing his efforts the last two weeks at the Seaway Mall and the Pen Centre – the 15 year old Fonthill native is looking forward to getting back on the track.

Especially since the former Kart Racer will be a Rookie in the Rev’s Full Throttle Powersports Modified Lite Division in 2015.

“Actually we have been thinking of making the change for two years now,” revealed Beckett, “originally we had thoughts of looking for a Street Stock but like so many others … it seemed like for karters – a Modified Lite was a natural progression.”

Beckett credits former karters including Modified Lite veteran Paul Klager and recent drivers (also former Tuesday Night racers) Dylan Davidson and Chris Watson with his decision.

“Dad thought it was time … that I was ready,” added Beckett, “the class looks like a lot of fun and it’s faster. Looking ahead – I am looking at Sportsman or 358 Modified. The Modified Lites seem like the best way to get there.”

When Steven was a young 4 or 5 years old his dad Terry brought Steven and his older brother Greg to the races. Both were asked if racing was something they would like to do and as they say the rest was history. Up until recent years – the two would compete Tuesday Nights.

Over the last 2 weeks if you had a look at Beckett’s #08 may have noticed the companies that will support him in the coming season – Semenuk’s Esso, Pleasantview Memorial Gardens, Weinman Electric and The Trap.

Beckett’s Modified Lite is a 2010 Pro Car powered by a 1000 c.c. GSXR Motorcycle Engine that was purchased from Dean Pronovost.

The first time on the track for the rookie is coming up quickly in the Pete Bicknell Driving School set for Saturday April 11th. “I have driven it a little bit but that was only around the pits – when I first started karting I was so nervous … but now I can’t wait to get the season started,” said Beckett.

“I can’t thank my sponsors enough for helping us make the move,” appreciates Beckett,” I’ve got to thank some people as well who have been a big help … Paul Klager, Chris Watson, Chris Long of RCM Racing Equipment and Pro Race Cars.”

When not racing, Beckett who works at Semenuk’s Esso also enjoys long boarding. This summer will also include a limited Tuesday Night schedule as the garage still houses his #08 Kart.

“When Dad and I first starting going to the races – one of our favorite cars was a 08 so that’s where my number came from. Back then, never did I dream that I would be racing Saturday Nights myself.”

Helping in the pits are Steven’s dad Terry and his brothers Greg and Curtis, Ryan Bath and fellow karter Tyler Winger and his dad Clint.

For more than 20 years, the sport of karting continues to provide the grounds for the Stock Car careers for so many. The latest - the one Steven Beckett is about to embark on.

To reach Merrittville Speedway during the off season – call the Winter Office at 905-685-7223 and beginning April 1st at 905-892-8266 or via e mail – ebicknell@cogeco,net. Merrittville Speedway’s Winter Office located in Bicknell Racing Products, 117 Cushman Road in St. Catharines Ontario.

For all the news on Merrittville Speedway’s 64th Consecutive Season in 2015 – visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com. Become a fan of Merrittville Speedway on Face Book at www.facebook.com/Merrittville Speedway and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Merrittville

MERRITTVILLE SPEEDWAY SPONSORS The 2015 64th Anniversary Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series for Merrittville Speedway’s 5 Divisions is brought to race fans and racers by division sponsors – Pinty’s Delicious Foods, Rick’s Delivery, Rev’s Full Throttle Powersports, Hoosier Tire Canada and Van Raine Construction and Contingency Partners http://www.merrittvillespeedway.com/contingency.html in addition to many marketing partners. Visit them at http://www.merrittvillespeedway.com/sponsors.htm and visit them when you require their products and/or services.

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Race fans can look for Lucas Oil Products at their favourite automotive retailer or maintenance center including KC Auto Parts, RCM Racing Equipment and Tim Phillips Garage.