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Gabrielson wins Bickerstaff race

Joe Gaberielson won the final leg and biggest race of his career, the Bickerstaff Cup, Saturday evening at Sharon Speedway.

Besting a stellar field of the region’s best Outlaw E-Mods, the 31-year-old Bristolville native started fifth and drove a smart to victory. He bided his time, saving his tires for an inside pass with three laps to go over one of the best in the business, Joel Watson.

What was so fitting of the win is that it happened on a night to honor the late Jim Bickerstaff, who ruled Sharon Speedway on the asphalt. During that time period, Joe’s father, Bill Gaberielson, ruled the semi late models with many wins and track championships.

Jimmy Bickerstaff Jr. honored his father on this special night. For Joe Gabrielson to pull off the victory made the night very special and fitting.

During the winner’s interview Joe remarked, “He’s been gone six years now and his birthday was yesterday. This is unreal.”

All I know is Jimmy and Bill were looking down smiling and proud.

Must be something in the water in Bristolville. Saturday night, Rex King Sr. won the feature event and track championship for the Big Block Mods at Michaels Mercer Raceway. His son, Rex King Jr., finished third in the event and second in the points chase. Both are from Bristolville.

Also on the same night Vivian Jones of West Middlesex, Pa., became the first woman ever to win a track championship at the Mercer oval since it opened in 1951. She took home the crown in the Mod Lights.

Sharon Speedway is gearing up for the biggest event of the year. The World of Outlaws Late Models return to the Hartford oval for a two-day event Friday and Saturday. Some of the greatest Late Model drivers in the country will be on hand for the “Battle at the Border.”

Friday’s event will pay $7,000 to win while Saturday’s event pays $15,000 to the winner. Regional stars will challenge the best in the business for all the money. Both nights racing starts at 7 p.m.

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