Fuel is the catalyst in stock driver A.J. Flick’s life.

He will transfer to Penn State main campus, as a junior, in September. His major is Petroleum & Natural Gas Engineering. Currently he is working at a Get Go Gas Station and saving his money for college.

Although Flick finished fourth in the standings last season, he had a series of misfortunes that involved flat tires. He hopes to find that energy, and the right mechanical combination to put him at the top of the leader board in 2013.

He loves ice hockey, and in order to stay in shape for racing, Flick and his pals play deck hockey. A.J.’s Dad, Mark Flick, who is an excellent driver, does not have a Modified ride this season and will spend his time wrenching for his son.

Racing with fenders

Race car driver Steve Lucas is trying something new this season. He will be racing a car with fenders.

Lucas has purchased a Late Model from John Garvin Jr. and will compete in the Crate Late Model division. He sold most of his equipment to Andy Priest, but owns a motor that could be placed in the car to run a few Super Late Model races if he desired.

Trip worthwhile

Canadian Big-Block Modified driver Matt Williamson has made his four- hour trip from St. Catharines, Ontario a profitable one, winning two out of three races and finishing second twice in the other main events at Lernerville Speedway.

“I love this place,” he said; I plan to race here regularly.”

Curry injured

While vacationing in the Bahamas, Rappin’ on Racing” reporter Dick Curry and his family were riding horses. Curry’s horse got “spooked” and threw him; however, his hand got stuck in the saddle, which caused it to rip open.

When it finally was released, he flew through the air, landing on the ground. The result was it took 17 stitches to reattach his finger. He broke three ribs, broke his clavicle and his body was badly bruised, which included a black eye.

Needless to say, his riding days are over. Friends can send get well wishes to 2329 Groveland Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15234.

Condolences

Our condolences go out to the Yip Robinson family. Robinson, a former successful driver in the old coupes, passed away on May 14.

This and that

At the end of last season, Rod George said he was going to retire. He saw Ralph Quarterson and said, “Is there life after racing?” Quarterson replied, “No.”

Recently, George did appear in Jim Chappel’s Sprint car at Mercer.

Chase Carnahan, age 10, drove in his first competitive Fast Trak race at Dog Hollow. He bought the car from Mike Blose and had practice time at the track. The seven drivers voted to let him compete despite his age. Carnahan drove a smooth race that was flawless.

Congratulations to Owner Martha Dionese and her driver, Andy Priest, who won the feature at Mercer Saturday. The Dionese Sprint was last in victory lane in 2009. Ken Schaltenbrand scored a win at Marion Center, Saturday. These two crews operate on an extremely low budget.

Defending Late Model Champion Mike Norris continues his winning ways at PA Motor Speedway, garnering the main event Saturday.

Ed Lynch Jr collected the feature win at Lernerville Friday and then was inducted into the Alle-Kiski Hall of Fame, Saturday. His son Ed Lynch III, a recent graduate from the University of Pittsburgh, raced in the Lernerville Round up, but finances will limit his Sprint competition. Lynch III currently is working for Paul C. Rizzo Engineering Firm.

Coming up

In addition to the regular Fab Four Racing, Lenerville will be honoring emergency responders Friday. PA Motor Speedway will host the BRP Modifieds and Mercer Raceway features the B.O.S.S. Wingless Sprints.

Carol Gamble is a racing columnist for the Butler Eagle