Northeast Dirt Modified Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremonies Cancelled For 2020

Story By: BUFFY SWANSON / NORTHEAST DIRT MODIFIED HALL OF FAME – WEEDSPORT, NY – As a result of health and safety concerns associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Northeast Dirt Modified Hall of Fame has made the difficult decision to cancel its 2020 Hall of Fame induction ceremonies, scheduled for July 23.

The Northeast Dirt Modified Hall of Fame joins the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY (originally scheduled to induct Derek Jeter on the same weekend), the National Museum of Horse Racing, the International Tennis Hall of Fame and other sports Halls of Fame around the nation in cancelling all ceremonies for this year.

“While we are disappointed to cancel this incredibly special event, it is the right thing to do under the circumstances,” said Hall of Fame Committee Chair Buffy Swanson.

“Given the changing rules and restrictions about what can and can’t take place, the fear many have about close contact and social events, and the conviction that we keep the induction ceremonies in the hallowed halls of the museum, maintaining the level of excellence we have established and continue to build on. . . the best solution is to forego the 2020 ceremonies, and induct this year’s class in the summer of 2021, with all the fanfare they deserve.”

The previously announced Class of 2020 — drivers Brett Hearn, Harold Bunting and the late Joe Donahue; car owner Tico Conley; mechanic Billy Taylor; promoters Bob and Donna Miller; TV producer Tery Rumsey; and Woman in Racing April May Preston-Elms — will be fully honored next summer, on a date to be determined.

Since 1992, the Northeast Dirt Modified Hall of Fame has inducted 101 championship drivers and honored 136 distinguished award winners from throughout the region. In recent years, the Hall of Fame program held annually in the museum has been bracketed by festive pre- and post-event receptions hosted by Weedsport Speedway.