Racer enjoys long trip to Enid

By Cheryl Licklider, Commentary

July 22, 2008 12:46 am

— Despite rising gas prices, over half of Enid Speedway Park stock car drivers tow their fast rides over a hundred miles on Saturday nights to compete on the legendary high-banked oval at the Garfield County Fairgrounds.
Street stocker Adam Schrag deserves recognition for the longest haul, as he makes nearly a 350-mile round trip every weekend from Hutchinson, Kan., chasing checkered flags.
“I came to Enid last year to get ready for the $10,000 to win Street Stock Nationals and found that I really enjoy the track,” said Schrag. “The track is fast and the racing is usually clean.”
According to this daring contender, the car he runs Friday nights on his hometown track is not legal for Enid Speedway Park. So he ventured to Enid two years ago to view a used car and ended up meeting Jerry Derr and having a new chassis fabricated at Jerry Derr Motorsports.
“Jerry builds some great cars and you can learn a lot from talking to him,” said Schrag. “I had him build both my car for Hutchinson this season, and the one I race here.”
Schrag’s research paid off last year with a third-place finish in his inaugural run in the big money race and this talented driver is anxious to try his luck again this season.
“The highlight of my racing career is running third in the $10,000 to win,” said Schrag. “I can’t wait to run again this year.”
Sammy Crissmann builds the motors that powers Schrag’s No. 311 cars. Corey Kepler heads us the team as crew chief. Other loyal members include Tony Hall, Brandon Showalter, Aaron “Crome” Fletchall, Matt Showalter and Jarod Reimer.
Sunnydale Kennels, Motorsports Specialties, Mike Kern Construction, Crissmann Racing Engines and Jerry Derr Motorsports sponsor the quick rides.
“Racing would not be possible without my crew and sponsors,” said Schrag. “The traveling is really expensive but all my sponsors chip in and that really helps. Racing twice a week would be really hard without my crew. It is hard to find guys that are devoted to the sport without being paid. Their only pay is the enjoyment they get when we do good. They are a great bunch of guys, it takes a lot of work away from the track to be ready to race each week. Corey is especially dedicated. He started with me my first night out and hasn’t missed a race.”
This weekend warrior truly enjoys the sport, even though he admits he still gets nervous during the line-up. Schrag said when the green flag waves all his anxiety vanishes and he is ready to go as hard and clean as he can.
“I sincerely enjoy stock car racing,” said Schrag. “My goal is keep doing what we’re doing as long as I can. Eventually I want to get my son Parker into a race car. He’ll be five next year and old enough for a go cart.”

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