By Jim Foose | Speedway Action Magazine April 9, 2026
The winter hibernation is officially over. The smell of high-octane race fuel and melting rubber is returning to the Midwest this Saturday, April 11th, as the Sliman’s in Amherst Ohio Wheelman Super Stock Series kicks off its highly anticipated 2026 season. The battleground for this opening clash? The legendary asphalt of Russell’s M-40 Speedway in Jones, Michigan.
If there is a perfect venue to test a driver’s winter preparations, M-40 is it. Known for its blisteringly fast 3/8-mile, D-shaped layout, the track boasts a massive 20 degrees of banking in the corners. That kind of elevation means drivers will be carrying incredible momentum through the turns, promising fans the kind of door-to-door, tight-quarters racing that the Ohio Wheelman Series is famous for.
Racing for a Cause
While the pursuit of the 2026 championship begins this weekend, the season opener carries a significance that extends far beyond the checkered flag. Saturday’s event is proudly dedicated to Mental Health Awareness. Highlighting the iconic green ribbon, the Ohio Wheelman Series is utilizing the roaring platform of short-track racing to break the stigma surrounding mental health, proving that the toughest drivers on the track also know the importance of checking in on one another off it.
A Stacked Field of Contenders
The pre-entry list has been released, and it reads like a who’s who of regional heavy hitters ready to tackle the high banks.
Leading the charge is 2022 Ohio Wheelman Series Champion Earl Goldy in the #08, looking to reclaim his spot at the top of the mountain. But he’s going to have his hands full. The roster features a fierce mix of seasoned veterans and hungry challengers.
Fans can expect fireworks from the Lushes camp, with both Brendan Lushes (#81) and Mark Lushes (#88) fielding entries. Tristan Crago (#4) and Jesse Fischbach (#8) are also rolling into Jones looking to make an early statement in the championship points standings.
Official Pre-Entry List:
- #00 Jerry Smith
- #08 Earl Goldy
- #3 Davey Lawson
- #4 Tristan Crago
- #5 Chris Hamilton
- #5 Tyler Hufford
- #8 Jesse Fischbach
- #10 Cody Lollar
- #12 Jeff Kuykendall
- #27 Eddy Poderzay
- #32 Keith Lewis
- #39 Gary Rinehimer
- #81 Brendan Lushes
- #88 Mark Lushes
- #92 Chris Parker
- #97 Chad Small II
The Green Flag Awaits
With the high-banked turns of Russell’s M-40 Speedway waiting to be tamed and a roster packed with heavy-footed talent, the Ohio Wheelman Super Series is primed to deliver an unforgettable start to the 2026 calendar.
Grab your jackets, rally your friends, and head down to Jones, Michigan this Saturday. It’s time to go racing.
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