Modified Racing Series to Crown McKennedy Champion:

Canaan, NH (November 6, 2009) -- The curtain will officially close on a very successful season, Saturday, November 21, when the New England based Modified Racing Series crowns its 2009 champion, and recognizes its competitors for their accomplishments in the recently concluded season.

The sixth annual awards banquet will be held at the Clarion Hotel, 1080 Riverdale St, West Springfield, MA.

Jonathan McKennedy, East Chelmsford, MA., scored four wins this season (Twin State, Seekonk, Oxford Plains, Beech Ridge) paving the way to his first series title. McKennedy held off a late season charge by veteran driver Rob Goodenough, West Swanzey, NH., to capture the title by a 15 point margin.

In addition to the new champion being crowned, the 2009 Koszela Speed “Rookie of the Year” award will be presented as will the DART Steel Engine Builder award. Specialty plaques will be awarded to the Most Improved driver, Tough Luck driver, Dedicated driver, Mechanic of the Year, and Sportsmanship recipient. The special awards are selected annually by series officials.

The fifth annual “7-11” award, a presentation made by New England Hall of Fame modified great Bob Polverari, will be awarded to the competitor who represents modified racing in a professional manner both on and off the track. Jack Bateman, Dwight Jarvis, Ed Dachenhausen, and Vinnie Annarummo, are former recipients of the prestigious award.

The 2009 season has been deemed a big success by series officials. 73 racers competed with the MRS in 2009. In 15 races, 12 different drivers were victorious.

Series founder Jack Bateman will address competitors looking ahead to the 2010 season. Bateman is working on an 18 race schedule for the new campaign including the series first ever appearance outside the New England region. A spring race is planned for the Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Malta, NY.

Doors open November 21 at 4:30 PM with a social hour starting at 4:45 PM. A buffet style dinner will be served at 6:00 PM followed by awards and dancing.

For additional information, call 800-924-2594 or www.modifiedracingseries.com