On a gloomy October day , amidst the aftermath of Hurricane Helene ’ s winds , Bill Hoskinson approached Rob Weinle , co-owner of Edgewater Sports Park in Cleves , Ohio , with an ambitious idea . Hoskinson proposed hosting a racing event in just three weeks , an idea that would typically be dismissed outright by any track owner . However , this meeting turned into a heartfelt discussion about the state of grassroots racing , the challenges facing track operations , and the fading camaraderie among racers . Parked at the quarter-mile marker during a rain-soaked tour of the track , Hoskinson poured out his thoughts . He lamented the decline of heads-up street racing and smalltire competition . He shared memories of racing with his sons and the sense of community that once defined the sport . Could these racers , who had parked their cars out of frustration with unfair competition , reignite their passion ?
Weinle listened intently as Hoskinson outlined
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his vision : a “ Plates & 28s ” event aimed at rekindling the joy of racing . Yet , Weinle voiced concerns about the financial and logistical challenges of running the track . Rising costs , insurance , and maintenance were taking their toll . Without a renewed sense of purpose , the track ’ s future seemed uncertain . Nonetheless , inspired by Hoskinson ’ s passion , Weinle agreed to take a leap of faith .
Back home , Hoskinson wasted no time . He drafted basic rules and classes for the event , then
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turned to his loyal YouTube audience at “ Old Man ’ s Garage ” to generate buzz . The response was cautious at first , but Hoskinson adapted quickly , listening to feedback and refining his plans . By October 24th , Edgewater ’ s regular Tune & Test night saw a trickle of racers – some returning after years away – testing their vehicles in preparation for the weekend .
Friday ’ s “ Lifted and Lowered ” event set the tone , featuring a car show , burnout contest , and Trick ‘ n Treating for kids . Early rain threatened the day , but as the sun emerged , so did a stream of cars , trailers , and fans . Sponsors like Motors Brewing and JaxWax stepped up with prizes and trophies , adding to the excitement . Families and racers mingled , kids in costumes collected candy , and the pits buzzed with energy .
The burnout contest stole the show . Eighteen competitors – from a ’ 65 Nova Gasser to a jacked-up pickup – took turns thrilling the crowd with smoky , tire-shredding performances . Fans voted with their cheers , and
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PHOTOGRAPHS BY DAVID DIEHL , HYPER-PERFORMANCE MOTORSPORTS INC . |