This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Sports

New Egypt Racers and Their Cars Visit Manchester Library

Representatives from New Egypt Speedway visit Manchester Library to promote track and racing safety

Families recently had the chance to take a hands-on tour of some of speed machines when representatives from the New Egypt Speedway visited Manchester's branch of the Ocean County Library.

“Kids love racecars,” said the track's general manager Danny Serrano. “When they see the cars [here], they want to see them race. We’re promoting the cars and the track. Getting people interested.”

Librarian assistant Elaine Masure said that the event, held on July 11, was something kids and their parents could enjoy.

Find out what's happening in Manchesterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“Children are naturally interested in racecars. Parents as well,” she said. “So it can be a shared experience. To learn from professionals and talk to an actual driver.”

New Egypt Speedway opened in the 1950s. In 1997, it was rebuilt into what it is today — a half-mile oval clay track.

Find out what's happening in Manchesterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Serrano, George McKelly, the track's "tech guy," and Mike Mongiello, a regular driver, all came with their unique perspectives on the sport of racing. 

McKelly worked at the Wall Raceway for 15 years before moving to the New Egypt Speedway, where he has been there for the past 5 years. He explained how it is his job to make sure all drivers comply with the guidelines set up by the New Jersey State Police. 

“New Egypt is one of the safest tracks around by far,” McKelly said. “It’s a first class facility.”

If a driver does not have the proper clearance to be able to race, the New Egypt Speedway has to turn them down, he said.

Not only does McKelly make sure everything is up to legal standards, he ensures that there is no cheating and everything involved with the race is safe.

Mike Mongiello, a racecar driver, brought his racing gear. Mongiello and McKelly showcased all the layers Mongiello is required to wear, including a fireproof suit, underwear, gloves, shoes, a neck brace and helmet. They also passed around pieces of gear for the kids to inspect up close.

The kids were jabbering the whole time, excited to hear about the fast-paced sport of car racing. They asked questions such as, “How do you drive so fast without crashing?”

Parents were also excited as they asked questions of their own, like if a special training license is required to race (All that is needed is a valid New Jersey Drivers’ License and clearance from the state).

Serrano also passed out racing schedules and "Thunder in the Pines," the official racing magazine for speedway.

To integrate racing and reading even more, the library set up a display of children’s books about cars and racing for patrons to browse. Children could also choose those books to read with teenage reading buddies in the S.A.I.L. (Service and Achievement In the Library) program at the Manchester branch.

After the presentation, everyone went outside to see the cars: two sportsman, or “JV” racers, and the pace truck. Kids were able to sit in the racecars and Serrano gave out checkered flags while Mongiello started his car to exhibit how loud the engine is.

A parent watched as her daughter and niece, two of the about 65 people in attendance, climbed around the cars.

“It was very informative. Kids seem to enjoy it,” said Sara Lane of Lakehurst as her daughter jumped in and announced in a rush how she sat in the car and what it was like. “Does that answer your question?” Lane laughed.

Serrano said he and his crew try to do about four to five library events per year. The library reached out a few years ago and they have been hosting events ever since. The raceway has also done programs at local schools and county fairs.

Upcoming appearances to see the cars up close and speak with the professionals include the Ocean County Fair July 12-17 and the Little Egg Harbor Library on Thursday, July 21.

“[Going to the races] is an inexpensive way to have a night of fun,” Serrano said. “Kids under eleven are free. We have a concession stand to buy snacks and drinks, but you can bring your own to save money that way, too.”

Races are from 6-10 p.m. every Saturday night, April through October. All kids under 11 years old are free, and kids 12-15 are $10. Adult tickets are $20. Military and senior prices are $18. Five lap ride-alongs are also available to those 18 years or older.

For more information, visit www.newegyptspeedway.net or call 609-758-1900.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?