January 30th, 2012

Fixing, Cleaning and Assembling

     Due to an untimely meeting with the Flamboro turn 4 wall with the 12 in August, several front end chassis tubes had to be cut out and replaced properly.  That is done, cleaned and repainted with the car and the new(est) engine being prepped for installation.  The engine and front end from the 2011 12 car are now in and on the 20.  With the information learned during the 2011 season with the 05 GXSR 750, both cars should be able to hit the ground running and be at or near the front end of the grid.

July 2nd, 2011

Back to Business

     Finally finding the time to get to updating the website.  It was a long winter fitting a Suzuki 2005 GSXR 750 in the 12 and repairing the 20 after an untimely meeting with the Grand Bend Speedway armco.  The first couple races have been fraught with teething problems with the Suzuki but with potential peeking through the mire.  After a good showing at Grand Bend in the heat race (2nd), a valve issue halted the 12 in the main.

Back up to speed at Sauble Beach with a couple of solid 8ths despite not finding the handling.  Daniel Bois needed a ride on Sunday and dusted off the 20 for a decent 10th.  More to come with the speed evident in the 12, just need to work on the chassis now that the motor appears sorted, touch wood!

April 11th, 2010

Down to the short strokes

     With racing season fast approaching, the team is putting the final touches on the equipment for the 2010 racing season.  Nicholas first race is April 25th followed by practice day for the TQs on May 2nd.  David is intending a full year in the 12 with Daniel Bois on board for at least 6 Sauble Speedway races.  The remaining races will likely be a mix of Jonathon Treadwell, Stefan Haas, Jamie Collard, Chris Ralph and perhaps special guest Dave McKnight Jr. in between his Oswego and ISMA duties.

November 4th, 2009

Banquet Concludes Successful Season

     After a very consistent season of points finishes, David took home third in points.  By year's end, only the stout 82 of James Gray was consistently faster, very promising for the 2010 season.  Another surprise was in store at the banquet as David was voted "Sportsman of the Year" by the Can-Am Club's car owners and officials.  This very prestigious award came after 22 years of TQ midget racing, learning how important it is to help out the other competitors for the good of the Club.  It was a lesson learned well and expressed by the award.

July 24th, 2009

McDonald's Extends Sponsorship

     McDonald's of Trenton (3 locations) has pitched in once again with sponsorship funding for the team.  The team is very proud to be associated with such a successful company with a long history.  Both TQs and Nicholas Kindred's go-kart will feature the classic logo!

July 4th, 2009

5th at Flamboro

     A tough night of racing say David emerge with a hard fought 5th place finish in the feature at Flamboro Speedway.  Jonathon Treadwell in the 20 had a couple of issues, pulling off mid way through the feature with a bent tie rod.  The 5th place moves David up to 4th in points behind leader James Gray, Rob Neely and Daniel Bois.  Tough crowd to be sure.

     With the next 2 weeks off, the next show will be at Grand Bend on July 25th.

June 27th, 2009

Decent Finish at Grand Bend

     Another rainout at Flamboro was followed by this Saturday's race at Grand.  Only David was running in the 12 and stormed to an early lead out of the 4th starting spot to win his heat race.  An 8th place start in the feature was not as kind seeing the 12 fall outside of the top ten in the early laps but climb back up to an eventual 6th after a couple cautions.  That's where David would finish, behind the 59 of Wayne Turnbull who curiously regained his spot after being involved in a late caution.

  The TQs will try again to get in their first show at Flamboro Speedway July 4th with Jonathon Treadwell back in the 20.

June 13th, 2009

2 Top 10s

     On a night of high attrition, both cars scored solid top ten finishes with David finishing 6th and Jonathon Treadwell 10th in only his third TQ start.  With both cars in one piece, the same driver lineup will be at Flamboro Speedway this coming Saturday night.

August 4th, 2008

Sauble Beach Successful

     It was a perfect weekend for racing and good results for the team.  David ran 10th on Saturday stuck in traffic but used a more favourable (2nd) starting position Sunday to run with the leaders finishing 4th.  Jamie Collard stepped into the 20 finishing 13th on Saturday and 21st on Sunday, pulling off late with a hanging throttle.  He ran very smoothly making the most out of the car equipped with a tired motor and used tires.

David will be in the 12 again for the coming weekend at Flamboro Speedway.

July 29th, 2008

Ready to Roll at Sauble Beach

     The 12 was ready for Grand Bend which saw David successfully shake down new shocks and a redesigned rear suspension.  Pleased with the progress, David turned in a solid 7th place at the end of 30 quick laps.  Minor issues hopefully all resolved, the team looks set to tackle Sauble this weekend.

May 19th, 2008

Partial Season for 2008

     After a hectic 2007 campaign that saw Daniel finish 6th in driver points and David 10th, shortages of time and funds have forced the team to only run a partial schedule for 2008.  Plans are to get the 12 out with David behind the wheel for the August long weekend followed by the twin 25s at Barrie.  For the time being, David is spending race weekends prepping the 12 and later the 20 to hit the racetrack or crewing for Earl Caine when time allows.

May 12th, 2007

Season Starts Well

     Opening night at Flamboro has to be described as nothing but a success with David winning his heat race and running a strong 3rd in the feature.  Dan qualified through the same heat and finished 10th despite a couple engine hic-ups.  Earl Caine in his new 69 struggled with a handling problem after banging wheels in his heat race and failed to finish.  Minor damage to the car, easily fixable.

May 6th, 2007

Test Day A Success

     3 Brave cars on the track Saturday with only minor issues to sort out.  Changes to the 12 appeared to improve the handling, a slight low end miss slowing the times.  Daniel Bois looked very comfortable in the 20 despite struggling on worn tires.  Times were not the issue, making sure all systems worked was the order of the day and that was a success.  Earl Caine was pleased with his car turning some competitive laps despite the usual bugs to work out.  The team looks to the first race to see where everybody really is!

April 29th, 2007

Practice Delayed 1 Week

     A much appreciated delay of 1 week gives the new 69 car more time to be ready for practice day.  An all-nighter might have been enough to see the car on track this past Saturday but an extra week is nice from a safety standpoint.  The 12 and 20 are both ready to roll.

April 15th, 2007

Less Than 2 Weeks

     With practice day less than 2 weeks away, the mad scramble has begun.  The 12 car is now rolling again with completion scheduled for later this week (ha ha!).  Earl Caine's car will be back from the painter's Tuesday so the next 13 days will be hectic. 

April 8th, 2007

Season Prep Starts

     Just over 2 months after starting a new chassis for Earl Caine, it's out for powder coating with the 12 car now undergoing modifications and preparations for the 2007 season.  With just under 3 weeks until practice day, no rest for David, Dan and Daniel as the candle will continue to burn at both ends!

January 26th, 2007

New Driver Named

     Daniel Bois will step into the #20 for the upcoming season as teammate to David Balych.  Bois, who ran as a rookie in 2004 and selected races the last 2 years, will step into the Brave chassis to compete in 2007.  Stefan Haas, who ran in 2002, 2003 and 2006 will crew on occasion as he takes some time off to save for a new house.

     Tubing for Earl Caine's new car is in the shop with construction to start Saturday, January 27th.  Stayed tuned for details and pictures.

January 20th, 2007

New Shop Active

     More than a month of work wiring, insulating, dry walling and painting has the new home of David Balych Racing ready for action.  No amount of thanks would be enough to my dad for his efforts setting up the new shop, it looks great!!!

     Presently, both cars are being prepped for the 2007 season with a new chassis in the works for Earl Caine on the agenda.  Work set to begin on that chassis before month's end.

November 21st, 2006

Back Up!

     After a successful move up to the new home in Caledon, the website resumes after a successful 2006 campaign by the team.  David ended up 5th after only 8 races were able to be run.  Daniel Bois stepped in for Stefan for the last race as the latter had previous commitments.  Despite little practice, Daniel qualified for the main only to see it washed out.  Stefan ended up 16th in points despite only contesting 5 features.

     Plans are underway for 2007 with a new car being built for Earl Caine and tweaks to the 12 and 20 cars.  Stay tuned for more news!

August 7th, 2006

Mixed Results

     A tough weekend of racing at Sauble Beach saw the team come up with an 8th on Sunday for David and an 11th for Stef on Saturday.  The 12 car suffered a rare engine failure during heats on Saturday and the backup motor was not up to the job during the feature with David pulling off half way with a slowing motor.  Stef soldiered on for a solid 11th in the competitive 22 car field.  Sunday saw the 12 parked with David jumping in the 20 (now numbered 12) and salvaged some momentum with a heat win from 6th on the grid.  The wild feature saw 3 reds and several more cautions.  A loose race car prevented no more than an 8th place finish but still decent considering the circumstances.

July 9th, 2006

More Solid Results

     Another night of furious racing greeted the full house at Sauble Beach.  A 22 car feature of all quick cars saw David fight up to 5th and Stefan to 17th.

July 2nd, 2006

Decent Results at Canadian Open

     The Canadian Open at Sunset Speedway Saturday presented a stiff challenge for the team as 27 cars filled the pits.  David managed a 6th after starting 12th in the feature.  This race featured a draw for position which wasn't exactly friendly.  Stefan qualified through the B and worked his way up to 18th after being helped into an early race spin.  With 4 races down and 7 to go, David sits a solid 5th in points with Stefan 15th after 2 DNS's to start the season.

June 24th, 2006

Season Underway

     With project "Back In Black" shelved for the time being, both cars headed into the 3rd race of the season with "new gen" Kawasaki power.  Race 1 at Flamboro saw problems with the Suzuki and then the Kawi car only enabling David to take 17th, running the entire feature on 3 cylinders.  Race 2 at Oswego, the Suzuki let go again shaving the team down to one car.  David salvaged a very respectable 2nd in the feature to lift the teams spirits heading into race 3.  In the feature, David persevered for 6th with Stefan limping home to 12th after being caught up in mid-race melee. 

June 4th, 2006

"New" Engine Unveiled

     Though not having turned a wheel yet in anger, project "Back In Black" was released to the public Saturday as the 12 car rolled out of the trailer with the 1995 Suzuki GSX-R 750 in place.  The motor, ignored by the mainstream, was seen to be a potential diamond in the rough by David.  He built the motor over the winter with tips and help from Ed Butt and Earl Caine.  It's hoped this powerplant with it's low 850 lb. car and driver weight can be more competitive against the omnipotent ZX7 "superstocks".  Saturday, will tell the tale!

May 7th, 2006

Smooth Sailing for 12 Car

     Although only able to bring out the 12 car for practice at Flamboro, the car run flawlessly on the slick surface with both David and Stefan able to get some laps in.  The second car should be ready for the first race at Peterborough with some prior track time for the car anticipated.

February 16th, 2006

Back In Business

     After computer issues and lack of time to resolve said issues, the site is now up-to-date.  The primary car is ready to go after being gone over the past couple of weeks.  The backup 12 (20) is currently undergoing the same therapy and should be done before May.  The backup car will feature some subtle changes in an effort to glean more out of the package.  Lots of time before racing begins in earnest, hopefully for a successful campaign.  The 2nd car will likely run a handful of races during 06 with Stefan Haas at the wheel, Dave McKnight for the "TQ Classic" at Oswego labour day weekend.

September 17th, 2005

3rd and 8th Overall

     In a hard fought night of racing, David emerged with a 4th and Tyler an unlucky 10th to cap off the season.  The 4th place solidified 3rd in points for David.  Tyler was running solidly in the top 3 which would have let him vault into 7th in points but a lapped car played spoiler sending him into a spin and to the rear of the field.  He managed to climb back up to 10th but it wasn't enough.  Tough racing luck but still a good night with both cars running very strong.

     The team was solid again this year with only 1 mechanical DNF between the 2 cars, a loose water hose for David at Peterborough.  Tyler moves over to run the Mackereth #43 car in 2006 and everyone associated with the team wishes him success.     

September 11th, 2005

Tough Night Means Results Needed at Closer

     Both cars struggled for speed as David picked up 11th and Tyler 14th in the feature at Peterborough Speedway.  This leaves David still 3rd in points but needing a solid top ten at Flamboro to maintain the position.  Tyler was tied for 7th coming into the event but fell to 8th.  He will also need a good result to hold onto 8th and/or challenge for 7th.

September 5th, 2005

Classic Weekend, Great Show

     A superb show was put on by the Lucas Oil Can-Am Midget Club Classic weekend at Oswego.  30 cars were in attendance with cars from Canada and various parts of the US northeast including both Balych team cars.  A non-points event, David and Tyler could only manage 15 and 16 respectively but the goal of soaking up the event was achieved!

August 29th, 2005

Great Results Net Points Gains

     A good run for David finishing 3rd and Tyler 8th from his 15th place starting position have helped both team drivers in the points standing.  The 3rd place solidifies a tight battle for that position for David and Tyler's 8th place moves him up into a tie for 7th overall, excellent for the sophomore driver.  The team was very strong all day with David winning his heat race and Tyler qualifying for the main through tough heat races.  31 cars were in attendance.

     The team now prepares for the TQ Classic at Oswego Speedway this coming Saturday.  Though not a points race, bragging rights will be huge for this inaugural event.  Watch the "Wheels" section of the Toronto Star this coming Saturday for an interview with David in Norris McDonald's column.

July 31st, 2005

Only 1 Race at Sauble

     Rains washed out the second day of racing at Sauble Beach but Tyler managed a fine 4th driving his dad's car when David had to jump in the 20.  David ended up 8th but made some changes to the car which should pay off at the next race for Tyler.

July 15th, 2005

Good Results Considering

     A 6th and a 12th place finish for David and Tyler respectively were decent results considering the quick Kawartha Speedway favouring the older "Super Stock" motors.  Despite the disadvantage, the team worked with the setups to come out where they were in the points standings, David 3rd and Tyler 9th.

     Saturday was rained out so the team prepares for another assault on the quick Peterborough Speedway track this coming Saturday.

July 5th, 2005

Team Sits Solidly in Top 10

     Two weeks of fine results have David sitting 3rd in points and Tyler 9th after 7 rounds of the Lucas Oil Can-Am Midget Series.  At Sunset on June 25th, David managed a 4th while Tyler did not finish but still ended up 11th.

     Sauble Beach on Canada Day weekend had David finish 4th and 9th with Tyler 13th and 10th respectively.  With 9 races still on the schedule both drivers have a great chance of placing well in the final standings.

June 19th, 2005

Busy Night Nets Mixed Results

     Two features in one night is always tough.  If you hit the setup, your there, if not it's a long night.  David managed a 6th in the first feature and 5th in the second with a decent but not great car.  Hanging in and being patient paid off as others fell off by the wayside.  Tyler struggled with setup and never managed to get a comfortable car on the quick 1/3 mile, 17th and 15th in a tough field of cars being the result.  Still early in the year the results leave David 4th in points but now only 45 points out of first.  The tough night drops Tyler to 13th place from 10th.  With 13 races to go, lot's of time for improvement.

June 12th, 2005

Solid Finishes at Flamboro

     It was a hot and sticky evening but out of it came solid results for the team.  Both Tyler and David qualified for the feature through the heats in a tough 23 car field.  Tyler started 4th and David 6th but the outside row moved slowly through turns 1 and 2.  David battled Tyler for half the race for 7th before the 12 found a way past.  From there, David moved past another car for an eventual 6th.  Tyler stayed close but could not follow David through finishing in a tight battle for 7th, in 8th.  The strong results move David up to 4th in the points standings and Tyler 10th after 2 races.  A long way to go in the Championship battle but a good start nonetheless.

June 7th, 2005

First Race at Oswego Opens Season

     After rain halted both the first and second scheduled races of the year, the team was finally in action with a 20 lap feature at the famed Oswego oval this past Saturday.  A couple minor mechanical issues held David to an 8th and Tyler an 11th but all in all, it was a fun show and a great race.  The knowledgeable fans at the speedway were very impressed with the TQ show, a barnburner until the final lap.  The series heads on to Flamboro this Saturday and with the bugs worked out, hopefully stronger results from both cars.  

May 15th, 2005

No Major Problems on Shakedown

     Practice day went well for the team with no mechanical hick ups and some good shakedown laps.  Both cars were near the pace on old tires while other circulated on sticker tires.

     The first race of the year was rained out so if the weather co-operates, the first race for the team will be this coming Saturday at Peterborough Speedway.

April 17th, 2005

Lucas Oil Supports Tyler

     Though the deal was done some time ago, Tyler and the new look 20 were officially introduced this Saturday at Checkered Flag Collectables in Brantford.  The deal will help Tyler try to improve on his fine 2004 campaign which saw him capture 13th in driver points and the prestigious Rookie-of-the-Year award.  This support combined with the London indoor experience, should be a boost to the effort.

March 23rd, 2005

New Team Supporter

David Balych Racing will move ahead in technology this year with help from Bouran Data Services.  Bouran builds state of the art data acquisition systems, one of which will be installed in the 12 car to evaluate the system (and the driver!) over this racing season.  It's hoped this new technology will help the team maximize it's resources.  Company owner Petri Ranta is enthused with the agreement, seeing it as a great opportunity to showcase his company's products.

March 13th, 2005

Tyler Gets His Due

The deal was if Tyler secured the Rookie-of-the-Year award, David would have his helmet custom painted as an incentive.  Tyler achieved that goal so his helmet was sent down to Taylord Designs shortly after the January indoor race.  Taylor Lawson delivered the goods to a surprised Tyler this weekend at the Performance World car show.  Tyler was ecstatic and speechless as he reviewed his "new" lid.  Truly an awesome job!  Thanks to Taylor for his hard work and creativity.

February 21st, 2005

NGK Comes Aboard for 2005

     The Team is proud to announce it's association with NGK spark plugs for the upcoming season.  The David Balych Racing Team was accepted into the Race Sponsorship Program after submitting the Team's resume.  The product support is much appreciated from such a famous brand and will hopefully help in 2005.

February 6th, 2005

Prepping for the Season

     With the London indoor series on hold and likely done for this winter, work has started on prepping the cars for the 2005 racing season.  The 20 car will be in the Performance World car show in March and will be getting a different paint scheme.  The 12 will be stripped down, cleaned and checked over.  The to do list is not as long as previous years but still is extensive!

January 19th, 2005

Cars in One Piece

     The main goal going into London with the tight confines of the track was to come out with both cars in one piece.  Mission accomplished on that front.  Both cars looked fast in warm ups but a poor setup choice and/or heat race damage on the 12 made the car undriveable in the feature.  A first lap brush with the wall cut down the RR on the 20 causing a hectic tire change.  The replacement tire hurt the handling but Tyler persevered to a fifth place in his first indoor race.  After a couple of attempts under yellow to cure the 12's handling woes, Dave McKnight pulled it off the track after several spins being classified 8th.

January 9th, 2005

Ready to Roll

     In preparation for the 2005 season, the 20 car has been sand blasted and powder coated.  The chassis is put back together and is ready to go indoor racing with Tyler and the helm.  Less than a week away now!  As the field looks a little thin at this point, David has decided to enter the 12 car with Dave McKnight at the wheel.  Should be a hectic time.

November 7th, 2004

Hardware!!!

     Quite the night for the David Balych Racing team at the 2004 Can-Am Midget banquet.  Tyler collected Rookie-of-the-Year honours to go with his 13th place in the points standings.  David picked up the Most Improved Driver aware (to his chagrin!) as well as the 2nd place trophy.  The team also scored the Best Appearing Team award something everyone on the team is quite proud of.  It will be very difficult to duplicate the success of this season but next year is another year and both David and Tyler are eager to get back at it in the spring.

October 31st, 2004

El Presidente

     It will be tough to follow in the footsteps of those before, Harry Macy, Bob Woods, Ken Lorenz and Craig Mackereth to name a few but David will be President of the Can-Am Midget Club in 2005.  A very important and stressful job at times, David will do his best to keep the Club going in it's current direction.  There are some very exciting plans in the works for 2005, it could be one of the best yet!

October 6th, 2004

Bridesmaids Again

     David and Stefan Haas ran the annual "Rocket Robbie Enduro" kart race at Sutton this past Sunday finishing 2nd in Senior Light.  It was the third time David and Stefan have run the race and their third 2nd place finish.  David started the race, Lemans start in 15th place of the 16 runners.  He was able to avoid the first corner pile-up coming out of it in 4th.  Several laps later had David move into their eventual 2nd place.  Stefan took over at half way closing the gap to the leaders but it wasn't enough as they finished on the lead lap, #81 some 30 seconds behind the winners but a lap ahead of 3rd place.  In the Senior Heavy class, Rene DaSilva and John Strothard shared the ride.  A first corner collision and a dropped chain later on put the duo 4 laps down at the end but still in 5th place.  Everyone involved had a great time.  Robbie looked fantastic and was in good spirits.  The event raised more than $17 000 for Robbie!  Thanks to everyone who donated to the cause.

September 19th, 2004

Almost!

     It was close for the win but not the title.  David finished a close 2nd behind Paul Smith in the feature but it was enough to give him 2nd overall in the final points standings.  He was able to pull up to Paul's bumper and take a look a couple times but didn't have enough to complete the pass.  Still, it was a satisfying way to end the season, certainly one to remember.  Tyler had clinched the hotly contested Rookie-of-the-Year honours the race before and had locked up 13th in the championship.  With David needing a good finish, the 20 car was weighed up for him meaning Tyler was some 30 lb. overweight in the feature.  He still managed a very respectable 10th place finish.

September 16th, 2004

Cars Ready For Showdown

     Just 2 more days until the title showdown at Flamboro Speedway.  Both cars are ready to hit the racetrack, the 20 car with the extra weight needed for David just in case.  A couple minor bugs were found in the 12 car, maybe not enough to make a difference but nothing can be chanced at this point.  "We're as ready as we're going to be".

September 6th, 2004

Title Hopes Still Alive

     One race to go and this one will be for all the marbles.  With David struggling to a 16th place finish at Kawartha Speedway but rebounding for 6th at Sauble beach, he sits 4th in points, only 64 behind points leader Paul Smith.  Smith has a small 40 point gap to second place James Gray.  Dave McIntosh sits 3rd only 55 points back and Craig Mackereth is 5th, 65 back.  Any of the top five have a shot at it!

     Kawartha was a struggle for the team as David suffered a broken steering link on lap 2 and limped around for the remaining laps.  Tyler, after contact in the B Main required an axle change, could do no better than 19th.  On Sunday results were much better with David posting a 6th and Tyler a solid 10th.  With the result, Tyler clinches the Rookie-of-the-Year award which was a main goal of the team.  David had problems in the heat races, a spin and contact with the wall required a radiator change and realignment.  He rebounded to win the B Feature for the 4th time at Sauble Beach this year!  Starting 11th and with no cautions after lap 1, 6th was a fine result.

August 28th, 2004

Decent Results Despite Troubles

     Although he missed the setup and struggled with a loose race car, David managed to avoid problems for others to finish a respectable 5th.  Tyler struggled most of the day with a weak motor.  The decision was made to test out the spare motor in the 20 car but the hectic pace of the day made the decision a poor one.  Tyler struggled to a 17th place finish.

With the 5th and leader Paul Smith finishing 10th, David moves back to within 87 points of the leader with 3 races to go.  James Gray is coming hard only 41 markers back in 3rd so nothing is assured.  The last 3 races will have to be good to maintain 2nd let only challenge for the title.

August 21st, 2004

Another 6th for David

     A win in the first heat for David, the first of the year was the highlight of the night this past Saturday at Sunset.  The 12 was awesome in the heat race but the track seemed to loosen up in the feature causing David to have to chase the car somewhat.  The 20 of Tyler was behaving strangely on the track during warm ups and the heat races.  This was tracked down to a suspension bind that was fixed before the B Feature.  The lack of practice time hurt Tyler and he could only manage 13th in the feature.

The 6th place keeps David 2nd in points but coupled by a win by points leader Paul Smith has him drop to 114 points behind the leader.  Tyler dropped to 13th in points but sits a scant 50 points out of 10th with 4 races to go.

August 14th, 2004

Tyler Joins the "Upside Down Club"

     Tyler experienced his first flip this weekend with a minor roll after spinning to avoid a spun car.  The damage was mostly contained to the wing but the car was too damaged to continue.  David started the race 7th and battled near the front all night with a decent but not great car to finish 6th.  The car was not accelerating well and cost time and position.  David was still happy with the performance only losing 21 points in the process.  He still sits 2nd in points, 84 markers behind leader Paul Smith with 5 races to go.  The DNF cost Tyler a couple of positions moving him down to 12 in points but still 202 points ahead of the next rookie.

August 6th, 2004

Cars in 1 Piece, No Ground Lost

     Going into the Sauble weekend, the main goal was to stay within reach on the points leader for David and for Tyler to maintain his lead in the rookie points.  Both goals were accomplished with solid finishes for both drivers.  David finished 7th, 8th and 9th in the 3 features with Tyler, 8th, 11th and 13th.  David moved up to second in the point standings, the same 63 points back of leader Paul Smith as going into the weekend.  Tyler managed to extend his points gap to the next rookie to a commanding 205 markers despite dropping from 8th to 10th in points.  With 6 races to go, anything can happen especially with 2nd to 5th in points separated by a mere 17 points.

July 24th, 2004

Great Night at Peterborough

     Last week at Flamborough was a bit of a struggle but the team rebounded well with a 3rd for David and a 6th for Tyler this past Saturday at Peterborough Speedway.  Both drivers finished 3rd in their respective heats.  Tyler started 4th and David 7th as the feature lined up.  David picked his way through the pack to move up to 3rd with Tyler a couple cars behind.  A pile-up on lap twenty caught a couple cars with Tyler managing to squeak through with minor damage to the headers.  On the restart David lined up 3rd with Tyler 4th.  David hung onto to third for the last 5 laps but the header damage slowed Tyler to his 6th place finish, still a fine effort. 

The points remain tight with David moving up to 3rd from 5th and Tyler up one to 8th.  Tyler leads the rookie battle with the next rookie down in 14th, 151 behind.  The 3 features at Sauble Beach this weekend will be critical for points.

July 17th, 2004

11th and 12th at Flamboro

     It wasn't a bad night by any means but still a bit of a struggle.  David qualified through the heats but started 15th in the Feature.  Contact on lap 1 bent the right rear shock locking up that corner.  "A bucking bronco" for 25 laps, the 12 car was hopping badly coming off the corners causing 1 brush with the wall.  David managed to hang onto the pack for 11th.  Tyler fought a loose handling car in the heats and had to run the B finishing a fine 2nd in that race.  In the feature, he picked his way through the field finishing right behind David in 12th.  With the tight points battle, the results move David down to 5th from 2nd and Tyler up to 9th from 10th.

July 3rd, 2004

Tyler Gets First Podium at The Beach

     Tyler was disappointed after Ottawa but more than made up for it with a convincing heat win followed by a strong 3rd in the feature Saturday at Sauble Beach.  Tyler moved up from 5th on the grid and ran with the leaders all night to make the podium.  The placing moves him back into the rookie points lead and 10th overall.  David, after a spin in his heat, won the B Feature and finished 9th in the main after starting 15th.  The top ten result keeps him second overall in the points standings.  The feature on Sunday was stopped after 9 laps due to rain.  David again won the B and has moved up to 11th in the race and Tyler 13th with 16 laps left to run August 1st.

July 1st, 2004

Solid Results in Ottawa

     Continuing the form shown at Sunset, both David and Tyler were on the pace at the tricky 3/8 mile Ottodrome Speedway in Ottawa.  Both David and Tyler qualified through the heat races as Tyler's 3 race rookie orientation is over and he started in his normal handicaping position.  The cars lined up for the feature nose to tail with Tyler 6th and David 8th.  On the start, David jumped to the inside moving up to 5th just ahead of Tyler.  David quickly moved into 3rd with Tyler in 5th but pressuring hard for 4th.  Unfortunately, minor contact send Tyler down the pit entrance road relegating him to a disappointing 19th place, much worse than he deserved.  David fought a deflating left rear tire but still managed a lonely 3rd, a distance behind the top 2 but 1/2 straight ahead of 4th.  The second podium in succession moves David up to 2nd in points with Tyler now sitting 13th.

June 19th, 2004

Great Night at Sunset

     Last weekend had it's ups and downs, this weekend was much better.  David drove a conservative race at the front and missed the crash this time to take 2nd place in the A Main.  This is his best result since a win late in the 98 season at Sauble.  Tyler also had a solid night.  Having to run the B, he worked his way up passing several cars to finish 5th.  In the feature, he kept his nose clean and finished 10th battling Ken Lorenz hard just before the final caution/red ended the race 2 laps early.  The 2nd place moves David up to 5th in points with Tyler still top rookie in 11th.  The team is back in action Wednesday June 30th at the Ottodrome Speedway in Ottawa.

June 12th, 2004

Crash in 2nd Feature Mars Good Finishes

     The highlights of the night for the team were David's 4th place finish in the first feature and Tyler's 7th in the second feature.  Unfortunately, David was caught up in a late race accident in race 2 which put the 12 car into the wall cage first.  David walked away sore but ok.  The car sustained major front end damage and a flattened wing.  The wing did it's job to absorb the impact but David's helmet still was damaged and will need replacement.  Tyler had an excellent night, qualifying through the B Main, he worked his way up from 21st to 12th by feature's end.  After the aforementioned wreck in race 2, Tyler moved up to a fine 7th at the finish, top rookie in both races.

     After 3 feature events, David sits 9th in points and Tyler top rookie in 12th.  Both cars should be ready for Sunset Speedway this Saturday night. 

June 6th, 2004

Opening Night Behind Us

     It was a little disappointing but something to build on as David finished 11th at Peterborough and Tyler 16th.  A spin a broken starter for the 20 car in the heat race added a little excitement but it was overall a decent night.  David chased carb settings for most of the night while Tyler looked for less oversteer.  Both cars are in tact and will be ready for 50 laps this coming Saturday.

May 31st, 2004

New Addition to the Family

     Michael James Kindred Balych was brought into this world Monday at 2:44 pm.  The little guy weighed in at 7 lb. 14 oz.  Both arrived home Tuesday well with Mom doing great, up walking no problems.

May 23rd, 2004

Season to Kick Off June 5th

     With rain washing away the season opener, the first race will now be June 5th at Peterborough Speedway.  Both cars are set up so the next 2 weeks will be spent finalizing spares and relaxing (doubt it).

May 16th, 2004

Shakedown

     Official practice day for the Can-Am Midget Club May 8th was fraught with minor problems that limited lapping for both cars so May 15th the team headed up to Peterborough Speedway to "work out the bugs".  No major issues were encountered with both cars turning many laps.  Cool conditions and a green racetrack kept all cars in attendance in the mid 13 second range with the 2 Balych Racing entries right there on old rubber.  With a good baseline setup for this coming Saturday's opening race at Peterborough, the team is in good shape.

April 10th, 2004

Just the spares...

     With both cars essentially ready to hit the track, work has switched over to making spare components for the cars and finalizing the new pit cart.  Also on the agenda are some modifications and clean up on the trailer.  With less than a month to go before practice day, time is getting short but the team seems well positioned for a strong run in 2004.

March 14th, 2004

One Down, One To Go

     The new 20 car is done except for some minor details, setup etc.  From the first tube bending until the final graphic was laid on the car took 3 months to the day.  The 12 cars has been modified with the same changes as the 20 and will start going back together this week after a bath and some paint touchups.

March 10th, 2004

"Awesome" Is The Word

     David's new suit arrived from Awesome Racewear today and it didn't disappoint.  A different color scheme and design adores the new togs along with impeccable quality and engineering.  Kudos to everyone down at Awesome for a truly "Awesome" job!

March 8th, 2004

Just a Couple More Nights

     Bodywork now complete and minor touches here and there and the new car will be done.  The engine was running on Saturday with only a couple on minor snags along the way.  Once the wires were on the proper coils and the fuel valve turned on, it started right up.  The back end was lifted off the ground to get some wear on the ring and pinion which is tight right now.  Both cars should be rolling within the next week or 2.  Dan started working on the pit cart which will be a welcome addition this season.

February 29th, 2004

New Car Just About Complete

     Since the digital camera died, getting pictures of the new car onto the site has been a chore.  You don't want to shoot 24 pictures of the same stage!  The new car needs only a few more days of work until completion, finished bodywork and bumpers.  The motor is in and ready to run when the rest of the fuel fittings come in.  A little more paint, vinyl graphics and it is over!

February 19th, 2004

New Supporter Joins the Team

     Awesome Racewear based out of London Ontario will be the equipment of choice for David Balych Racing this coming season.  David will have a new suit designed by "Awesome" in time for practice day May 8th.  Check out the website, http://www.awesomeracewear.com/ for some impressive suit designs and affordable safety equipment.

February 8th, 2004

Ready for a Motor

     The new chassis is proceeding very nicely, ready for installation of the power plant and wiring.  The car has the front and rear suspension in place, fuel cell, braking system, throttle linkage and pedals, seat and headrest all done.  The motor will go in next with the dash and wiring soon to follow.  ETA for completion is another 2-3 weeks.  After the 20 is complete, the 12 will be cleaned up and brought up to 2004 spec.

January 17th, 2004

Final Assembly to Commence

     One month and 2 days after the new chassis was started, it was ready for paint.  Monday will see us start bolting pieces on, most are ready to go on the car.  The bodywork is not done but most panels should be a breeze compared to bending a chassis.

December 28th, 2003

Full Steam Ahead!

     Just 1 1/2 weeks after work began, the new chassis is a roller with the motor in place as well.  Now begins the somewhat tedious task of mounting all the auxiliary components.  However, with the first Brave chassis being used as a reference, even this shouldn't take too long.  It's expected the chassis to be ready for paint by February 1st.

December 21st, 2003

New Chassis Coming Along Well

     After a full weekend of fabrication and welding, the new chassis is well on it's way to completion.  Cloning an existing car is much easier and quicker than having to design and engineer as you go along.  At this rate, the frame should be complete by the new year with only brackets and bodywork to finish up. 

October 12th, 2003

David Takes 5th in Series, Tyler Solid in Debut

     With a 5th at Flamboro and 9th at Lancaster, David managed a 5th place finish in the combined Arlington Crane series this past weekend.  Slipping back at the start to 9th at Flamboro, he managed to crawl back up to 5th at the finish.  With only 1 practice season and the heat race at Lancaster to set the car up, David started 13th but finished 9th, the top Can-Am runner just ahead of Colin Turnbull.  "Totally different racing down here.  You spend as much time trying to keep the car straight as trying to race.  A couple times a year is fun, but every weekend?  I don't know about that", was his post race comments.  It was well worth the effort as everyone who partook in both racing had fun doing so.

     Tyler Mackereth made his debut for the team and despite limited practice time and a foreign car,  he finished a solid 9th in the feature on the lead lap.  Setup changes throughout the night to suit Tyler's driving style were productive as he felt comfortable in the Feature.  Wide smiles were to be seen from Dad, Mom and Granddad after the race!

September 30, 2003

Both Cars to be Readied for Flamboro

     Tyler Mackereth will make his debut behind the wheel of the 20 car at the "Canadian Open" at Flamboro, October 11th.  Despite crash damage to both cars at the last Flamboro race, both cars are expected to race the 11th.  The 20 will then be switched over to Lancaster specs for the US Open on the 12th with David behind the wheel.

September 17, 2003

Next Generation of Mackereth's To Show His Stuff in 2004

     Tyler Mackereth has "signed" on to drive car 20 for David Balych Racing in 2004.  Tyler has a couple feature starts under his belt and will be a top contender for Rookie-of-the-Year honours next season.  Both father Craig and uncle Andy are Can-Am feature winners and season Champions.  Young 18 year-old Tyler hopes to follow in their footsteps.  Grandfather Norm, was a regular winner at Oswego in his time and is a member of the Hall of Fame at the historic Oswego oval, so it should be in the genes!  Craig, coming off his first Can-Am Midget title is thrilled to have a third Mackereth in the field next season although it will cost him a valuable crew member.

     In other news, preparations are well under way for David to drive the 20 car at the US Open at Lancaster Speedway, September 27th and 28th.  David and Stefan will again team up to run the Robbie McMullen karting enduro October 5th.  Stefan will be looking to continue his racing career next year, possibly at Mosport in a formula ford 2000.  The team would like to thank Stefan for his time and work these past two seasons and wish him best of luck next season.

September 13, 2003

Tough Night on Equipment

    With the Club Championship on the line, the drivers were pushing hard and the result was a multi-car pileup that eliminated 5 cars including the 12.  Stefan got through the wreck with only minor damage and salvaged a tenth place finish.  On a brighter note, David managed his third checked flag in as many races with a commanding win in the B Feature.  Both cars have bent front axles that need repair.  The 12 also has some damage on the RR.  The 20 will be prepared and run at the US Open in 2 weeks with David at the wheel.

September 6, 2003

Great Night Yields 2 Top 10's!

    It was a very satisfied team that left Sunset Speedway with 2 solid top tens in the books.  David managed to win his heat race for the second consecutive week despite no laps in practice.  In the feature, David had the pole with Stefan outside.  David led the first 6 laps with Stefan in second before the only caution of the event.  After the yellow, David still led but Stefan was being pressured and lost second.  David lost the lead on lap ten and hung on for a strong 4th behind the stronger "super-stock" motors.  Stefan ran solidly in the top ten all night losing 7th position on the last lap to finish 8th, the second consecutive 8th for Stefan.  David still sits 9th in points but Stefan is now tied for 15th despite missing a couple events.

August 23, 2003

Haas Collects Career Best 8th

    Now that both cars are powered by the "new generation" Kawasaki engines, the team has been able to focus more attention on getting the engines working better and setting up the cars.  The result was a heat win for David, his first in 2 years and a solid 8th for Stefan in the feature.  David was running in the top ten before a late spin relegated him to 12th at the finish.  David was also running on a slightly harder compound Hoosier which appears to be a little slicker than the regular tire but the wear and consistency is much improved.  Two points races to go plus a non-points show in October and possibly the US Open at Lancaster in September if all goes well.  David is a former winner of the US Open, taking the race in 1996.

August 19, 2003

Good Runs For Both Cars

    After much frustration with back to back to back to back engine problems in the 12 car, both cars are now equipped with "New Generation" Kawasaki's and the finishes are now coming.  Despite fuel starvation problems which caused David to start 17th in the feature, he managed to pull the car up to 9th with no yellows to bunch up the pack.  A very encouraging run.  Stefan was also impressive, qualifying for the main in the heat races despite running on the Goodyear "hockey puck" right rear tire.  In the feature, Stefan finished a very respectable 11th, ahead of others on the spec, softer Hoosier right rear.  With many little issues to sort out before Peterborough, the team is very optimistic heading into the final 3 races of the Can-Am schedule.  

June 30, 2003

Decent Results Despite Problems

    The net result for the weekend was an 8th, 6th for David and a 12th for Stefan in the first feature.  Unfortunately, the 12 suffered valve problems in the closing laps of the first feature and David was forced into the 20 for the second program.  On the upside, the extra attention to the 20 car the past 2 weekends has provided an improvement in performance.  Stefan qualified easily for the feature in his heat race Saturday leading the first half on the race before settling for an impressive 4th.  Rain forced both features to be run Sunday, not allowing for any time to analyze the 12 car.  After the weekend, David moves up to 5th in points from 6th going into the weekend.

June 22, 2003

13th for Balych Officially

    After the 12 went down after only 2 laps in practice with a dropped valve, David was forced to run the 20 for the remainder of the night.  After leading the heat race for 3 laps, David's inexperience with the back-up car showed as he slid high in turn 1 letting 3 cars go by.  In the feature, David started 3rd but got hung up on the outside, finishing 12 on the track.  He was later penalized for jumping a restart one position.  The car he jumped should not have been on the track due to running a non-spec tire for the feature.  The ensuing protest was denied and 13th was the result.

June 8, 2003

Haas Grabs 10th, 12 goes sour

    Stefan Haas had a career best 10th in the Can-Am Midget Club this past Saturday at Flamboro Speedway.  Starting 14th, Stefan stayed out of trouble and came through the fog to the finish.  The 12 car of David was running a strong 5th until the first caution.  The motor however started to slow down and he wisely pulled out before more damage could occur.

June 1, 2003

12 Car a Solid 3rd, 20 DNS

    Maybe, just maybe the team's luck is shifting.  After a strong opening night and a not so great second race, David rebounded with a hard fought third place in Saturday night's feature event at Peterborough Speedway.  Even though the carburetors still need to find that sweet spot, the 12 car was strong enough to run at the front all night.  Stefan had a great run in the heat race, qualifying for his first feature through the heats.  Unfortunately, a poorly designed mechanical throttle linkage broke starting the main and he was unable to start.

May 19, 2003

Misfires Trouble Both Cars

    Sunday night at Sunset Speedway was a troubling evening.  Constant misfires on both cars results in David finishing 11th and Stefan 14th.  Neither car ran up to snuff all night with the closest being David's heat race where he still managed 2nd despite a sick sounding motor.  The team plans some test time before the next race in 2 weeks to sort out the problems.  They remain optimistic despite the minor setbacks from the weekend.  David holds 10th in the points standings and Stefan tied for 11th.

May 18, 2003

Opening Night Kind

     After the disaster that was practice day, the team rebounded with a strong 5th and 12th in the first feature of 2003.  David ran up front all through the feature despite no practice laps and a slight misfire.  Stefan was much more competitive than last season even though he has to start the season with the less powerful new generation Kawasaki.  Stefan just missed qualifying in a very stout heat race but finished 2nd in the B Main.

May 13, 2003

Motor Failure in Practice Bad Omen

     Only a handful of laps into the season, it appears a rod bolt failed on the #1 engine of the 12 car sending the team into a backup plan.  The engine for the 20 car will now be in the 12 for the weekend with the new generation Kawi going back into the 20.  Both cars should appear at Peterborough but it's not the way anyone wanted the season to start.

May 3, 2003

Cars just about done

     With some hard work and a little luck, both cars should hit the track this coming Saturday.  Both drivers are anxious to shake down their respective rides and see if the wave of chassis and engine changes performed over the winter will bare fruit.  The 20 will have an early generation motor, a reworked rear suspension and new braking system.  Changes to the 12 were not as drastic.  A rebuilt motor, new front end pieces and a new livery being the most evident.  Hopefully the team will receive some solid results this year as reward for the tireless hours of preparation.

March 30, 2003

Stefan commits for 2003, 20 car nearing completion

     Stefan Haas has decided to run the full schedule during the 2003 Can-Am Midget season.  Haas will again pilot the 20 car which has been reworked and will be powered by an early generation Kawasaki ZX7.  The 2002 Rookie-of-the-Year will have more power under his right foot and he and the rest of the team expect solid results this season.  No goals have been set but having 2 cars in the top ten in points would be a great result.  The team will put it's main effort behind David this year and he will use the 20 car if the 12 fails.

February 23, 2003

Redoing the graphics on the 12

     For the 2003 season, the 12 car will have a different graphics package.  The design is not yet completed but already looks sharp.  Other work on the 12 car is just about complete, only the rear end of the car to inspect.  The chassis of the 20 car is out getting painted but should be back this weekend.   

February 9, 2003

Ice Racing cont.

     In -20 C weather, Stefan retained his hot hand with 4 class wins in 5 races.  With the coolant leak found and repaired, the weekend went smoothly allowing Stef to close up the points standings.  One weekend remains in the schedule, again in Minden.

February 9, 2003

Ice Racing

     Stefan continued his Ice Racing season this past weekend and I headed up on Sunday to check out the action for the first time.  It was a mild -10 degrees C when I arrived and was told that it was cold the day before.  Actually, only when the wind kicked up did you really notice the cold.  Stef finished second in both his races or SACond as he likes to say.  What is unique about this form of racing is that passengers are allowed.  I manned the "co-pilot" seat for Stef during his first race and tried to act as an on-board spotter.  I think the effort wasn't much use however.  I had a fun time riding in both a studded car and a rubber to ice class car.  Two more weekends in Minden and the season draws to a close.

January 11, 2003

Preparing for the Season

     Work continues fitting either type of engine in both cars as well as making changes to the 20 car to improve ease of adjustment and handling.  The brake system will be revamped and once that is complete, the car is going to be stripped and repainted.  In all likelihood, the car will appear in the Performance World show in March.

     Stefan continues to work on his Ice Racer, now sporting one of the TQ wings.  His season starts next weekend and this site will be updated with his results.

November 3, 2002

David Balych Racing Attends Can-Am Awards Banquet

     Saturday night marked the 37th annual Castrol Can-Am Midget banquet in which Stefan Haas walked away with Rookie-of-the-Year honors.  The main goal for the year was for Stefan to win this award.  Another goal was to have both cars in the top ten but that was not reached.  Stefan finished a fine 14th in his rookie campaign and David 17th with all the car problems.  The late season form of both cars was encouraging so next year looks to have as much or more promise than most.

October 27, 2002

Elections Meeting Held For Can-Am Club

     The elections for the board of the Can-Am Midget Club were held today and the new President is Craig Mackereth with Bob Crawford as Vice President.  David is still on the board of directors but lost both the President and Vice President races.  Craig should do a fine job but Bob Crawford will have to do a lot more as VP than he did as a board member.  Too many people on the board just take up space and unfortunately, the club members don't see this.  Here's to a great 2003 season!

October 25, 2002

Enduro Runs in Chilly Weather

     Less than ideal conditions were the situation at Goodwood Kartways this past Sunday as the team dusted off Stef's Birel for another 1 hr. enduro.  Stef ran the Senior Heavy class with Glen Butler but a couple of off track excursions and a loose chain ended their assault midway through the event.  In the Senior Lite class, David felt well enough to go and finished 9th out of 20 runners despite running nearly the entire event with a stuck throttle.  A clever early pitstop strategy gave David good track position but a throttle return spring broke a lap later.   Having to negotiated some of the tight Goodwood bends with full throttle caused massive understeer and hindered lap times.  "I had to rework my line and driving style pretty quick to stay somewhat competitive" remarked David.

     That should do it for the year as far as racing.  Stef plans to run some ice races up in Minden so we'll keep you updated on that as well as David's run for the Can-Am Club presidency.

October 24, 2002

Another Enduro

     The boys will be competing this weekend at Goodwood Kartways near Stoufville this Saturday in another enduro-style karting event.  David is still sore from the last one!, so he will try some practice laps and then make a decision.  In other words, he will take the warm-up and be a game-time decision.  Stef may be on his own in this one!

September 30, 2002

Back to Karting!

     Stefan and David competed in the second annual "Rocket Robbie Enduro" this past weekend at 3-S Kartways in Sutton.  At the end of the day, $7400 was raised for Robbie who was on hand for the festivities.  Robbie looked great and was in very good spirits.  A big thank you goes out to all who helped put on the event and those who competed and/or donated to the cause!

     In the races themselves, Stefan and David finished 5th in Senior Lite and 2nd in Senior Heavy.  Both were soar after the hour long races.  The suspension of the TQ's was highly missed!

September 24, 2002

Poor Weather Completes Season

     Both cars were back together and ready to roll for the season finale at Barrie Speedway.  The 12 had a fresh motor completed Saturday night before the Sunday afternoon show.  Both David and Stefan qualified through the B Main finishing 2nd and 3rd respectively.  In the main, David was moving up through the field from his 14th place starting position but damaged the left front suspension on lap 3.  He could not avoid a car that had spun and the night was over early.  Stefan persevered from his 15th starting position and finished where he started in the rain shortened event.  The rains came on lap 15 causing an anticlimactic finish to the season.

     In the final points standings, Stefan finished a fine 14th in his rookie season to claim Rookie-of-the-Year honours.  David after many problems ended up 17th in points.  The club has an elections meeting October 27th in which David is nominated for President, the only one running at this time.  

September 16, 2002

Haas DNF's in first trip to Kawartha Speedway

The 12 car was not in attendance due to engine problems so the team only ran the 20 car of Stefan Haas this past weekend.  The lack of top end speed was apparent but Stefan was still running well before a wheel bearing failed.  That was the first wheel bearing failure in 14 years of Midget racing for the Balych team.

September 2, 2002

More Results, More Engine Woes

After a mediocre race at Flamboro, 12th for the 12 car and a DNF for the 20 (broken axle), the team traveled to Sunset Speedway for the second time this year.  The 12 of David was down on power and was parked with a suspected bottom end problem.  David took the 20 out in the third warmup and nearly flipped the car during a spin!  After changing the gearing, Stefan was able to shave another 3 tenths of a second off his times and finish a strong 4th in the B Feature.  In the main, Stef was mixing it up with Ken Lorenz, Craig Mackereth, Todd Cresswell and Curtis Nichols.  The resulting 14th place finish was the strongest the package has looked all season.  A weekend off before racing resumes at the ultra-quick, Kawartha Speedway.

August 17, 2002

New Paint Job, Two More Finishes

The weekend off from racing gave the team time to get the 20 car painted and lettered-up in time for the Peterborough show.  The car ran well in practice and the feature but suffered a misfire in the heat and B Feature.  The problem was corrected in time and Stefan ran to a 13th place finish.  The lead car of David Balych ran well on the low groove but wouldn't stick up high.  David pushed Ken Lorenz hard for 9th but had to settle for 10th.  All in all, a reasonable night.  That's 3 top tens in a row for the 12 car, hopefully Flamboro will yield a top 5.

August 5, 2002

Four Finishes at The Beach

For the first time in recent memory, the team had only minor issues to deal with over the Simcoe Day long weekend at Sauble Beach.  David, in the lead #12 car had solid finishes both nights with an 8th and a 9th with the team car of Stefan finishing 14th and 16th in the 19 car field.  Stefan qualified for his first feature in the heat race on Saturday and started on the pole for the main.  The 12 is now running well so hopefully, a couple of top 5 finishes in the last 5 events isn't out of the question.  The 20 is still down on horsepower but much was learned this past weekend and hopefully this can be put to use for the next race.

The weekend had one hitch however and that was when the team tow vehicle broke an oil pump on the way home Monday.  David was driving and luckily pulled off before any damage was done to the motor.  Must have learned from the TQ engine problems that no oil pressure is bad, very bad!!!

July 27, 2002

Haas Learning Quickly

Stefan continues to show he can adapt to any form of racing as he put in a solid effort in the 20 car to finish 13th.  He followed up a strong 3rd in the B main with the feature result.  A few modifications to the rear suspension and an ever improving engine along with his growing experience are credited with the fine run.

The 12 on the other hand had many a problem.  A flat motor in the first warm-up, carb problems in the second and front end suspension problems saw David pull off the track in three of the four times he was on the track.  A mounting point on the left front failed on both axles causing the car to be extremely erratic.  David pulled off in the feature while running behind Haas due to the car being "a weapon" to drive.  It was only later at the shop that the cracked and bent mounting point was found.  A re-engineering of the point is in order and will be done for this coming weekend.

Thanks to John Strothard for the home page photo.

July 21, 2002

Only One Car for Barrie

Due to late problems in getting the motor together on the 12 car, only the 20 of Stefan Haas raced for the team this past weekend.  Stef ran well and had probably his best race to date running with the pack and making a couple passes before the right rear tire went hard causing him to milk the car to a still respectable 13th place.  It was his first race at Barrie Speedway, a bullring now with the speed of our cars and one of the hardest tracks to drive.

Both cars should be a go for Peterborough this weekend and the team is hoping for good results and no late nights (early mornings) at the shop!

July 13, 2002

Good News, Bad News

For the first time this season, the 20 car ran fairly trouble free.  The motor was running clean with no misfire and the brakes were much better but still need some fine tuning.  Stef was running well in the feature having a good battle with the 66 of James Treadwell but unfortunately spun late in the race collecting 3 cars.  The car only has minor damage and should be ready to go for Barrie.

The 12 car ran strong in the heat with David finishing a strong 2nd.  The feature was a different story as he slid back through the field before retiring with a tightening motor.  The motor damaged at Holland may be ready for this weekend as the current one needs to come down, probably still not 100% since the Sauble damage.  Hopefully one of the two will be ready.

July 7, 2002

If It Wasn't For Bad Luck...

Sauble Beach and Delaware could have been called a disaster for The Team.  The 12 car didn't run any of the three features and the 20, two of the three.  At Sauble Beach, a piece of metal off the racetrack found it's way into the #1 cylinder damaging the head and valves beyond repair for the weekend.  A one in a million chance considering the screen and foam covering the intakes.  The 20 car still suffered from a top end miss that defies logic.  No change in jetting seems to make a difference.

For Delaware, we barely managed to get the 12 back together in time, the short week being of no help.  We left for the racetrack at 5 pm on Friday night!  We managed to get in one set of warm-ups but neither car was running very well, both cars were misfiring. A broken plug wire on the 12 was thought to be the cause but it was no better in the heat race.  After the race, the car was soaked with oil and the breather bottle was nearly full with oil.  Time to park it for the night, I know what happens next, no oil left, big hole in the block.  No thanks.  At least we have fixed the brakes on the 20 car but the misfire was still present.  We borrowed a set of carbs from Andy Mackereth for the main and just barely had time to put them on with the quick program.  The car ran better but still misfired badly.  Stef finished 11th, the last car running but a finish none the less.

The next day, the 12 was taken apart piece by piece until the problem was found, a partially seized compression ring on the #1 cylinder.  With more time between races, this may have been found before Delaware but with the short week, we just managed to get the head together for the night.  The plug readings on the 20 were very odd and their was a ton of fuel sitting on top of the closed valves.  When we double checked the jet sizes in the borrowed carbs, we were amazed to find that there were in fact no jets present!  Amazing the car even ran!  We still suspect the problems on the 20 to be fuel related so we are going to talk to the carb manufacturer this week to try to find some answers.  It's getting frustrating.

June 23, 2002

Sunset Race Yields Results but Problems arise

The 3rd round of the series yielded 2 finishes for the first time this year but nether were anything to write home about.  The 12 car ran strongly in the top 3 in the feature until early brake problems had David ease the car home to a 10th place finish.  Stefan's 20 car still has a persistant misfire and a soft brake pedal that needs to be addressed.  Our changes over the last 2 weeks did not cure the problems.  The car was better but still off the pace.

With only the week to get ready for a double-header at Sauble Beach this weekend, hopefully we can squeeze in some practice time to sort out the problems.

June 9, 2002

Reasonable Night at Flamboro

The David Balych racing team had a reasonable night at Flamboro on Saturday.  Lead driver David Balych ran well in the feature finishing 9th in the feature.  A near incident on lap one cost him a handful of positions when another car made a left hand turn on the backstraight, nearly into the 12 car.  Quick reactions avoided a disaster but cost him track position.

The 20 car of Stefan Haas is still suffering teething problems with the motor and did not finish.  Stef ran well in the B Main, finishing 6th with a sputtering motor and a soft brake pedal.

June 2, 2002

Rain Cancels Races

The nights races were cancelled due to rain but not before practice and the first heat race.  The 20 car of Stefan Haas made light contact with the wall but should be fixed in time for the next race.

The 12 car sported a new airfoil package consisting of two wings mounted side by side.  The rules state that "any wing" must conform to a spec dimension.  Both wings conform to the rule and there is no rule in the book stating you can only run one wing.  However, the Club ruled that the spirit and intent of the rule was for one wing per car.  Well, we tried!

May 28, 2002

Split Water Hose Causes Engine Failure

Upon inspection (autopsy) of the motor failure, we found that the main hose feeding the engine with coolant had split.  We had planned on replacing this moulded rubber hose with a braided steel line but had not got to it yet.  Now we will.  I don't remember how old this hose was but obviously too old.  I saw a brief flash of steam while on the track but figured it came from the rad cap.  I watched the gauges and they looked fine.  Also, track inspectors could find no leaks (the water was all gone!).  Being stubborn and in the lead, I stayed out.  The wrong decision but that's racing!  The 12 should be ready with the back-up motor and the 20 is just waiting on the electrics.  We should be a go with both cars this weekend.

May 25, 2002

Highs and Lows Dominate Opening Day

The David Balych racing team had a tough opening weekend as the #12 car suffered engine failure while leading the Feature and the #20 was a DNS with electronic gremlins.

The day started out well with the #12 being the quickest car in the warm-ups and David winning his qualifying heat race convincingly.  However the good fortune turned sour during the feature as a suspected water leak led to an engine failure.  A 15th place finish was all we had to show for the day.

On a positive note, the #12 car was super competitive, the first time in quite a while that we've been in a winning position.  We now have this week to replace the motor in the 12 car and try to sort out the 20 which is ready to go. 

May 22, 2002

One week delay a blessing for second car

The one week delay to the start of the racing season is a blessing in disguise for the race team.  The second car (#20) was not quite ready for the opening race at Sunset but should be ready for the Holland race.  It will be a tough track to have you're first race at, but I'm sure Stef can handle it our he wouldn't be in the car.

May 11, 2002

Practice day rolls along without a hitch

The annual practice day for the Can-Am Midgets went very well for the David Balych Racing Team.  Team owner David, took only 6 laps of practice in the #12 car before relinquishing the seat to new team driver Stefan Haas.  Stefan completed some 30 trouble free laps, turning in some respectable times while learning a new car and driving style.  The #12 car ran trouble free all day and was very stable on the "green" Flamboro racing surface with last year's used tires.  The engine seemed very responsive and also ran trouble free.  The program for 2002 looks to be very promising.

April 13, 2002

Pushing ahead with second entry

Work continues at a brisk pace on the second entry for the 2002 racing season.  The #20 car now has the motor, driveline and cooling system 99% done.  Many of the other components have been checked or rebuilt.  We have started working on the new bodywork and hope to have the car ready for a new paintjob by the end of the week.  See 2002 Preseason Photos for our progress.

March 28, 2002

Stefan Haas to Race Second David Balych Racing Entry in 2002

Karting standout Stefan Haas has agreed to a deal that will see him compete the entire 2002 Can-Am Midgets Season.  Haas will pilot the former 06 car of past Club Champion Dave McKnight Jr.  The car is currently being converted over to a stock 98 Kawasaki ZX750.

Stefan comes into the TQ Midget ranks with an impressive resume from karting and ice racing.  He has also test driven a TQ and FF2000 cars at both the Derek Daly Racing School and private testing.  Haas spent last year in karting competing in the highly competitive F125 shifter class where he finished an impressive third in points in his first season in shifters.  Stefan was also 2 time defending champ in the Magnum Ice Racing series in the FWD metal to ice division.  This year he took the runner up spot.

Please welcome Stefan into the Can-Am fold as he is a highly skilled driver with a laid-back attitude.  

March 2, 2002

New Wing Logo for 2002

The GDC/Crook's Wire TQ will have new wing graphics for 2002 which will represent the new owners (well for the last 2 years!) of Crooks Wire Products.  Bill Crooks still runs the company, very well I might add.  Check out the new logo in the 2002 Pre-Season photo section.  It's only 2 pictures for now but I plan on taking some shots at the car show.

February 12, 2002

Getting ready for the car show

The GDC/Crook's Wire TQ will appear in the Can-Am Midget booth at the upcoming Performance World car show this March 8th-10th.  Unfortunately, this is the same weekend as the last indoor race cancelling our plans to race that.  Then again, it insures the car will be in one piece come March 10th!  Currently, I am cleaning up the car and fixing the odd thing preparing for the show.

November 20, 2001

This and that

Our club had a general meeting on Sunday and decided to finally adopt the new generation Kawasaki motors in bone stock form.  This will be hard to enforce but it now gives the racers another option.  The testing done on the motors has shown them to be only a fraction done on horsepower to the current motors but that is without adjusting the cam or electrical timing.  The board and drivers will decide during the year if changes need to be made to weights etc. to even out the competition.

I bought a scanner yesterday as well so I can build and update the photos quicker.  The unit itself is slower than the one I've been using at work but now I don't have to kiss up to the girls with the scanners and only get to use it during lunch.

November 10, 2001

Helping out with the Can-Am site

Over the last week or so, I've been helping to "clean up" the Can-Am site somewhat.  Mostly making sure links go to where they're supposed to and what not.  It's coming along well.  I think we need a section with old pictures on display.  See what I can do.

November 2, 2001

More Photos Added

I've managed to add photos dating back to 1990 onto the website.  So I'm about half way there in terms of photos of my career.  I also want to add some photos I took at Laguna Seca last year at the CART race and some other Misc. pics.  Also, I've changed most of the headings to less of a bland look, well worth the effort.  Let me know what you think of the site so far and what else you would like to see.

October 22,2001

Back on the Board

After not getting re-elected to the Can-Am board of directors this past meeting, I find myself re-instated!  Adam Walsh, who was re-elected, will be spending the winter in Whistler (poor guy) returning in May.  Adam felt that since his dad Cliff was also on the board and that he would be away and not able to participate during the off-season, he should step down and let me take his place.  Thanks Adam and to the board of directors for having the confidence in my ability to make a meaningful contribution to the board.  Again, as before, I will do my best.

October 20, 2001 6:30 pm

davidbalychracing.ca is up on the net!!!

After much learning and more than a little frustration, the site is finally up.  A lot more work to do, especially older pictures, but at least I can call it my own!

October 13, 2001

David Balych Racing gets a Domain Name

With the racing season now over, I've had time to start construction of a website.  It has been registered under the name davidbalychracing.ca

I had mulled around the idea of dbracing but there was already a dbracing.com and a dbracing.net and I was pretty sure the name davidbalychracing wouldn't be in use.  Still a lot of work to be done!