Berlin Raceway introduces Hall of Fame
Mysliwiec family named inaugural inductees

MARNE, MI - One of the longest continuously running short tracks in the country will now have a means to permanently immortalize its greatest drivers and contributors. Berlin Raceway officials announced the establishment of the Berlin Raceway Hall of Fame at its annual Driver Awards Banquet Friday night.

The Hall of Fame mission is to preserve the rich history and heritage of Berlin Raceway by recognizing and honoring outstanding individuals who have made significant accomplishments in and contributions to the sport of auto racing at Berlin Raceway.

Inaugural inductees to the Berlin Raceway Hall of Fame are track co-founders Chester and Rose Mysliwiec, Charles Mysliwiec and Richard Mysliwiec. Founder Chester "Chet" Mysliwiec was the track's promoter for 49 years until his passing in 1999. Working hand-in-hand with Chester was his wife Rose, who was actively involved in the operation of the track from day one and continued in the footsteps of her late husband as promoter of the track through its 50th anniversary. It was a true family affair for the Mysliwiecs, as brother Richard "Dick" Mysliwiec handled public relations and brother Charles "Chuck" Mysliwiec handled ticket sales and operations for the track from its inception.

Jenison-based Boyne Machine Company, led by co-owner Mike Blackmer, has offered a seven-year commitment as presenting sponsor of the Hall of Fame, which enabled the track to secure high-quality commemorative bronze plaques with engraved likenesses for permanent placement on a concrete wall at the track. Inductees will also receive commemorative plaques to keep as well as complimentary tickets to the annual Driver Awards Banquet, where each year the inductees will be announced.

"I really wanted to be able to preserve the history of this track," Blackmer said of his long-term sponsorship commitment. "I love hearing the stories of the old days, hearing who won, who was popular. Berlin's got such a great history. I'm happy that Boyne Machine was able to be a part of making the Hall of Fame happen."

Mike Strevel, Director of Race Operations, said that the establishment of the Hall of Fame was long overdue for the 55-year-old track and is something that all race fans can take part in.

"It's something we've been considering for a long time and I'm happy its all coming together now," Strevel said. "We appreciate Boyne Machine Co.'s support of this historic undertaking, which has enabled us to pay tribute to the Berlin greats in an honorable way. It's going to be a lot of fun - and a big challenge - to go through 55 years worth of racers and contributors to select the most deserving inductees! A very important part of this Hall of Fame is that all Berlin race fans can participate in the nomination and voting process. It's really a Hall of Fame for the fans.

"The Mysliwiecs are an obvious choice as inaugural inductees," Strevel continued. "They are the true pioneers of Berlin Raceway, turning what was a one-fifth mile dirt oval in 1950 into what is now one of the most prestigious short tracks in the country, and no one deserves this honor more than the Mysliwiec family."

Up to three individuals will be inducted into the Hall of Fame each year. Eligibility for the Berlin Raceway Hall of Fame may be in either Driver or Lifetime Achievement categories. Drivers must have been retired from the sport of race car driving for a minimum of five years and must have achieved significant accomplishments on the track at Berlin Raceway. Lifetime Achievement candidates must have a minimum of 20 years service to auto racing at Berlin Raceway and must have made a considerable impact upon Berlin Raceway. Anyone is welcome to nominate a candidate for consideration by completing a Berlin Raceway Hall of Fame Nomination Form (available at Berlin's administrative offices and online at www.berlinraceway.com). Nominations must be received by February 15; at that time the Selection Committee will select the candidates to be included on the ballot. Voting is open to all race fans and can be done all season long at races or online at www.berlinraceway.com. To be inducted, a candidate must be named on at least two-thirds of the ballots.

Complete eligibility criteria and selection procedures, as well as nomination forms, are available online at www.berlinraceway.com.