A great turnout of drivers, their fans and families were on hand for the Class of 2015 induction of the NEAR Hall of Fame.

By David Dykes

On Sunday, November 8th, the New England Antique Racers (NEAR), presented the 18th annual New England Auto Racers Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

Conducted at Manelley’s Banquet Hall in South Windsor, CT., the HOF celebrates literally hundreds of feature victories, championships, and untold contributions to the sport of auto racing within the New England region. Instituted in 1998, the HOF now boasts membership of well-over 100 deserving individuals.

Opening comments by NEAR President Paul Masse along with a rendition of the Star Spangled Banner & God Bless America began the event. Award-winning sportswriter and longtime area track announcer Matt Buckler again served as Master of Ceremonies.

The “Class of 2015” are drivers Sam Posey, one of America’s top road racers, Greg Sacks, the winner of the 1985 Daytona Firecracker 400, owner/driver Joey Laquerre, car owner the late Paul Dunigan and drivers the late Jim McCallum and Stan Greger. The multi-faceted Lew Boyd, presently a book seller and publisher, Lee USA Speedway promoter Red MacDonald, driver/car builder Joe Fontana, racer the late Ronnie Marvin, and “Cavalcade of Auto Racing” publisher the late Jim Moffat complete another impressive list of Inductees.

Among the day’s presenters were auto racing personalities Mark “Bones” Bourcier, Bruce Cohen, Peter Falconi, Jack Arute, John Spence, Peter VanderVeer, Rick Fuller, R.A. Silvia, and Justin St. Louis.

Honoring his continuing efforts in helping to preserve the history of auto racing in New England, Hall of Fame Selection Committee Chairman Bruce Cohen was the recipient of this year’s prestigious Dan Pardi Memorial Award as presented by NEAR President Paul Masse.

Hall of Famer Pete Zanardi presented racing journalist, announcer, and public relations figure Justin St. Louis with the annual Charlie Mitchell / Jack Ratta Memorial Media Award.

Source: NEAR HOF PR.