The 51st Annual Edelbrock Banquet of Champions, held on January 25, 2025, at Sawmill Creek Resort in Huron, Ohio, was a night to remember. This prestigious event celebrated the achievements of racers from Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio, who have dedicated their lives to the sport. The evening honored not only the champions but also highlighted the unwavering support of sponsors and the community. Racers were recognized for their hard work, determination, and excellence, making it an inspiring occasion for all attendees.

Honoring the Champions: A Night of Glory and Inspiration

The banquet began with a series of heartwarming entrances by various category champions, each accompanied by family members. These racers, including Callie Moreland, Brayden Baehr, Megan Kassin, Nick Hastings, Matt Short, and Scott Sill, took center stage, delivering moving speeches that resonated with the audience. The event also paid tribute to Chad Moss, the 2023 Bill Bader Sr. Sportsman of the Year, who made a grand entrance with his wife. The ceremony was meticulously organized by Summit Motorsports Park's leadership, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for all present.

The evening continued with heartfelt speeches from key figures such as Bill Bader, Summit Motorsports Park president, and Billy Carroll, Edelbrock contingency coordinator. Special guests, including representatives from Lincoln Electric, NHRA North Central Division, and Summit Racing Equipment, added to the significance of the event. The program acknowledged racers who finished sixth through tenth in points across various categories, followed by those in fifth, fourth, third, and second place. Each racer's dedication and success were celebrated, emphasizing the spirit of competition and camaraderie within the racing community.

Celebrating Excellence and Community Support

The highlight of the evening was the recognition of the top performers in different racing categories. Nick Hastings, Scott Sill, and Andy Innes secured victories in their respective divisions, qualifying them for world championship races. The event also showcased the substantial financial rewards available to racers, with over $67,750 in cash prizes awarded through the Edelbrock Super Series and an additional $64,400 in the Elite series. Unique programs like the Paint-My-Ride contest and the Delivered on Time Bonus further enriched the racing experience.

In a touching moment, Scott Wasko was named the 2024 Bill Bader Sr. Sportsman of the Year, receiving a standing ovation as he joined past honorees on stage. Bill Bader praised Wasko for his remarkable character and generosity, highlighting the importance of sportsmanship and respect in the racing world. The evening concluded with the announcement of the Jacob Wasko Scholarship Fund recipient, Lindsey Short, and the Thumbs Up Award winner, Leah Verner, both tributes to the late racer Jacob Wasko. The event underscored the collective efforts of racers, sponsors, and supporters, celebrating a year of achievement and looking forward to future successes.