Birch Run, MI (Friday, May 14, 2021) - When “The Dixie” at Birch Run Speedway kicks off its 2021 house division racing season on May 14th, not only will there be a new announcer in “Big” Ed Inloes calling the action, there will also be a new sheriff calling the shots behind the scenes. Steve Hodge was named the new Competition Director in January and is looking forward to his new role.
“A lot of people won’t recognize my name but will recognize me when they see me at the track,” the Flint native who now calls Birch Run, MI home stated. Hodge has a plethora of racing experience that he brings to the table.
“I started racing at 19 years old and haven’t really stopped as I still drag race my 1966 Mustang from time to time.” Hodge’s experience goes from behind the wheel to under the hood as well. Having worked as a design engineer at GM Racing, Hodge has experience in racing all the way to the top as being part of Tony Stewart’s racing program.
“I’ve done a lot in racing; from holding a land speed record in a former Bill Elliott NASCAR (tuned by former racer Stan Boyd), to working on John Fletcher’s Super Late Model, nitro funny cars, helping Rod Laney at Tri City Motor Speedway, working on vintage racecars (of which he has four from the East Coast) and even having a racing show called Racing Roundup on Comcast Channel 17 out of Flint in the 90’s. I guess you could say I have motor oil running through my blood,” joked Hodge, who also is involved in TriboDyn Lubricants.
When asked about how he plans on handling his new position Mr. Hodge had this to say, “I have no team affiliation with anyone that races at Birch Run. I’m a straight shooter and plan to run a tight but fair ship. Any driver that comes to “The Dixie” to race will be treated fairly and with respect as long as I get the same in return.”
Birch Run's Dixie Speedway opens up Friday night with Monster Metal Eve of Destruction. Gates open at 5:00PM and Pre-Race begins at 6:55 PM. On-track action starts next Friday, May 21 for House Divisions featuring the Midwest Compact Touring Series. For more information, log onto BirchRunRacing.com.
Story - Chuck Darling, Horsepower Happenings
Photo - Steve Hodge Facebook
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