Media Contact: Steven Ovens - woodhullracewaypr@gmail.com For Immediate Release – November 11th, 2016 – Shane Jackson photo -
It has been a sad week as racers, fans and the management at Woodhull Raceway has remembered former 360 Late Model promoter Gary Montgomery, who passed away last week on his 74th birthday after a lengthy battle with cancer.
Montgomery is one of the most recognized dirt track announcers in the Northeast, after his time announcing and managing Canandaigua Speedway as well as serving as a television color analyst on "Rush Hour on Dirt" for many years.
But what Woodhull Raceway supporters will likely remember Montgomery best by, was his time promoting the BRP Can Am 360 Late Model Series for 12 years. Montgomery took a division that he was introduced to at Little Valley Speedway, organized the racers and built a traveling schedule of races at tracks like Little Valley, Woodhull, Outlaw Speedway amongst many others.
Woodhull Raceway served as a BRP Late Model home track throughout the division's campaign, with the class remaining a staple on the High Banks through the end of the 2016 season. Fittingly enough, Montgomery was able to see the final event for the 360's at Woodhull prior to his passing. His granddaughter Lizzie, a lady racer herself visiting from North Carolina, threw the green flag for the Late Model feature that night as well.
"This has been a sad loss for the entire Woodhull family," said Woodhull Raceway owner and promoter Ted White. "Gary was a visionary for the 360 Late Model division and helped that division thrive for well over a decade. He was a big supporter of Woodhull Raceway, even after the series ending, and will be missed in the grandstands here at the High Banks."
Woodhull Raceway wishes to express their heartfelt condolences to Gary's wife Karen, their children, his brother Dick and the rest of their family and friends.
"Gary loved watching the 360's compete here on the High Banks," said Woodhull Raceway's Media Director Steven Ovens. "Racing will never be able to replace the respect, professionalism and 'on-air talent' that Gary possessed. His passion for motorsports was palpable, and I will personally miss his advice and friendship on and off the track."
Memorial Services for Gary Montgomery will take place this Saturday at 1:00PM at the Penn Yan First Presbyterian Church located at 211 Main Street in the village of Penn Yan. One of Gary's final requests was to have a large turnout from the racing community, to celebrate the great times he enjoyed in the sport.
God speed Gary, your contributions to the sport we love will never be forgotten.